UNDP LAUNCHES DIGITAL HUB IN NAIROBI

 In a bid towards advancing Africa’s inclusive digital and green transformation, the Government of Kenya through the Ministry of Information, Communications and Digital Economy (MICDE) in close partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the timbuktoo Africa Innovation Foundation, has today launched the Africa Centre of Competence for Digital and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Skilling and the timbuktoo GreenTech Hub at Konza Technopolis.

AI is rapidly transforming the future of work. Corporate investment in AI since 2020 is close to $1 trillion. Adoption is soaring. By 2025, Goldman Sachs expects AI investment to reach $200 billion a year globally. By 2028, analysts expect the global market for AI to exceed $1 trillion in size.  In the public sector, profound changes are now possible. Harnessing AI tools could repair the relationship between government and citizens, put public services on a new footing, and unlock greater prosperity.

 Africa Centre of Competence for Digital and AI Skilling has been established at the Kenya School of Government and is now fully operational, with the first cohorts of civil servants already undergoing training through both in-person and online sessions.The collaborative effort between the Government of Kenya, UNDP, Microsoft, Google, international and national partners, will equip 100,000 civil servants with essential digital and AI skills, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. 

The Centre aims to enhance service delivery, improve governance, and boost Africa’s global competitiveness. Using a cohort-based curriculum,the Centre provides tailored training and mentorship for participants, starting with representatives from Kenya, Uganda, Cape Verde, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Nigeria, with plans to include other African nations the upcoming year. It will serve as a hub for cross-country knowledge sharing-and collaboration, driving digital transformation and innovation across the African public sector.

Expected outcomes of the Centre include enhanced public service efficiency, the adoption of advanced technologies, and improved data-driven decision-making. Additionally, the Centre will promote cybersecurity awareness and encourage regional collaboration, enabling African nations to share best practices and accelerate inclusive digital transformation. 

 Green innovation will  generate jobs and address systemic challenges with the timbuktoo GreenTech Hub is poised to drive Africa’s green economic transformation and make significant strides toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 on affordable and clean energy.

SMACHS FOUNDATION UNVEILS 82 YOUTH AMBASSADORS TO FIGHT CLIMATE CHANGE

The first family daughter charlene Ruto and the patron of SMACHS Foundation a youth-led non-profit organisation  has launched 82 Youth Ambassadors to spearhead efforts against hunger and climate change in 46 counties across Kenya.

The ambassadors, aged 18 to 32, will champion climate-smart agriculture and mobilise their peers to embrace farming and the fight against climate change under the founder’s ambitious strategy, “The 30 Things”.

Speaking at the launch ceremony held at the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) in Nairobi, Ms Charlene Ruto, Founder and Patron of SMACHS Foundation, emphasised the critical role of young people in tackling today’s challenges.

“Young people are not merely victims of climate change and food insecurity—they are innovators, entrepreneurs, and agents of change. Through their creativity, leadership, and skills, they have the power to transform food production and drive climate action for a sustainable future.”

The selection process drew over 1,600 applicants, with 82 chosen for their leadership potential, passion for agriculture and climate action, problem-solving abilities, and innovative thinking. Although the programme aimed to recruit 94 ambassadors—10 per county—some counties had fewer applicants, while Lamu County had none.

Despite the agricultural sector being pivotal to Kenya’s economy, youth participation in farming remains below 30%, according to government data. However, by modernising agriculture through digital and mechanised solutions, the sector could unlock vast employment opportunities for the 800,000 young people entering the workforce annually.

The initiative aligns with findings from the 2023 African Youth Needs for Climate Action report by the UNFCCC, which revealed that African youth are deeply concerned about climate change and eager to collaborate with governments and organisations to develop innovative solutions.

The SMACHS Foundation is empowering a new generation of leaders to reshape Kenya’s agricultural landscape, driving food security, climate resilience, and economic growth for the nation through smart mechanized agriculture.

RESOLVE HEALTHCARE TRANSITION CHALLENGES FIDA AND KELIN URGES THE GOVERNMENT

The Kenya Legal and Ethical Issues Network (KELIN) and Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA-Kenya), prominent advocates for health and women’s rights, have today expressed deep concern over the challenges arising from the transition from the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) to the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) under the Social Health Insurance Act, 2023. Addressing the press in Nairobi, the two organizations highlighted how systemic gaps in the rollout have disrupted access to healthcare, threatening the constitutional right to health guaranteed under Article 43 of Kenya’s Constitution.

Speaking at a press conference in Karen KELIN offices  they noted the transition has been marked by confusion and a lack of clear public awareness, leaving many Kenyans in a precarious position. Reports have emerged of healthcare facilities turning away patients, detaining individuals over unpaid bills, and halting critical treatments for chronic illnesses. Vulnerable populations—including persons with disabilities, minorities, and those living in poverty—have been disproportionately affected by these disruptions, further exacerbating inequalities in healthcare access.

The most pressing issues identified is the lack of preparedness within the health system to accommodate the new scheme. The organizations pointed out that pending claims from the now-defunct NHIF have left healthcare facilities financially strained, forcing patients to pay out of pocket. This has plunged many Kenyans into financial distress, undermining the principle of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) that the SHIF seeks to uphold.

According  to KELIN and FIDA-Kenya  concerns about the lack of clarity surrounding critical healthcare programs such as Linda Mama and EduAfya, as well as HIV care services. They noted that these programs, which are vital for vulnerable groups, have been inadequately addressed in the transition to SHIF. The ongoing digitalization of health records, while seen as a step forward, was also flagged as a potential risk for marginalized communities who may be excluded due to the digital divide.

The organizations urged the Ministry of Health and the Social Health Authority (SHA) to take immediate action to address these systemic gaps. They emphasized the need for clear operational guidelines and communication strategies to educate the public and healthcare providers about the changes. Public sensitization campaigns, they argued, are crucial for restoring trust and transparency in the healthcare system.

They two bodies called for the swift settlement of NHIF claims to enable facilities to function effectively and ensure a seamless transition to SHIF. They stressed the importance of safeguarding emergency care access as guaranteed by the Constitution, including the need for exceptions and extended time limits where necessary. To address grievances and disputes arising from the new system, they recommended operationalizing the Social Health Insurance Dispute Resolution Tribunal and filling staffing gaps within the SHA.

The transition to SHIF, represents a critical moment for Kenya’s healthcare system. Its success will depend on the Ministry of Health’s ability to address these challenges swiftly and reaffirm its commitment to equitable and inclusive healthcare for all.

KELIN and FIDA-Kenya underscored that the government has a constitutional obligation to protect the right to health and ensure that every Kenyan is treated with dignity and respect.

 

WE SHALL NOT MILITARIZE CHEPSAITA CROSS COUNTRY, ASSURES SECURITY TEAM

Rift Valley Regional Commissioner (RC) Dr. Abdi Hassan has assured residents of Chepkemel area and the entire country that they will not militarize the second edition of Chepsaita Cross Country championships set for December 7th.

While addressing the media during the security meeting on Thursday afternoon, Hassan said that the day is meant for family and people of all walks of life. “We shall be here to ensure that this particular event succeeds. We shall be working with the federation to minimize the athletes from intimidation by the many uniforms around,” he said.“We are here from Nakuru, the regional Security team to join the team on the ground to support Athletics Kenya and the local organizing committee in terms of preparations for the upcoming race. We are satisfied with the arrangements of place and we shall continue fine tuning to have successful championships,” said Hassan. He said that they have looked at all areas and areas of concerns, assuring that they will work closely to achieve the objective are realized in a very successful way. 

“The brains behind this event has come at the right time and at the periphery of this county that will benefit neighbours in Kakamega and Nandi that will bring people together, which is a good cohesion. It will serve an objective of unity, co-existence and that is a key matters in the society. It has also underlined education, health, sports and we are known for prowess in athletics to ensure we remain where we are,” added the RC.

He said that any risks that will arise, bringing disharmony will be dealt with especially alcohol among others vices to ensure that there is order before, during and after the event. 

Race Secretary General Kennedy Tanui said that the security is playng and shall play a critical role. 

“We want to assure resident that Chepsaita is safe for all and I want to urge Kenyans to continue registering through the portal. As earlier said, we shall not over militarize the event and we shall be in contact with our security officers. It will be a family event for them to enjoy the championships,” said Tanui.

WHY LSK IS HARD ON JUDICIARY TO SAVE KENYANS

In the last one year according to law society of Kenya (LSK) Kenya kwanza regime has undermined the mixed successes and achievements of judiciary and  returned to the era of unaccountable state power, extra judicial killings, abductions, corruption. weaponizing investigative agencies for political purposes, undermining media freedom and  civil society organisations which has lead to diminishing confidence in the Judiciary.

The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) stands at the forefront of upholding the principles of Justice, accountability, and the rule of law within our nation. With a deep commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of all Kenyans, it is our solemn duty to address the current state of the rule of law in our country.

The Judiciary released the State of the Judiciary and the Administration of Justice (SOJAR) Report for the Financial Year 2023/24 on 14th November, 2024. The report marks an Interesting period in Kenya's constitutional development. The launch of the report is al commendable milestone, and the key elements focusing on enhanced efficiency and access to justice are Indeed commendable.

All surveys and persistent complaints from our members point at a complacent judiciary that cannot defend itself from allegations of runaway corruption within its ranks. Over the past fourteen years the Judiciary was considered the remaining solution in the defence for the Constitution. It made remarkable progress in creating robust electoral jurisprudence, demarcated limits on presidential appointments. invalidated legislation intended to clawback on the constitution, protected the Bill of Rights. developed the devolution architecture.

The law society has demand that the Judiciary must raise up to give the Constitution its essence and substance in achieving the objects of nation building, state accountability and the rule of law.

The existing and increasing inconsistency between decisions by the appellate and subordinate Courts compromise the role of the judiciary as a fount of consistent legal jurisprudence.

There are credible allegations of institutionalized corruption within the judiciary which is increasingly undermining public confidence and trust. The complaints pointing to unfettered bribery and unethical conduct by judicial officers has continued to weaken and undermine justice system and at the same time erode the credibility and effectiveness of the judiciary. Ultimately, the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has been criticized for its failure and neglect to address the institutional issues including the stink of corruption. The JSC has failed to promote accountability, transparency and independence within the judiciary.

The constitutional role of the Judicial Service Commission is not contemplated to foreclose scrutiny or provide tacit immunity based on inaction or soft hand when they act. The special role of serving as the institutional guardian is intended to protect the organisation from outside arbitrary influence. It is incumbent on the JSC to recognise the roles law society and all stakeholders in the administration Justice System in providing credible scrutiny.

During the recent demonstrations, the law society took leadership in working with Kenyans, the civil society and other organised groups. We visited police cells. hospitals. mortuaries, homes and walked with Kenyans in this period. We observed and received complaints of total disregard to the Constitution and the rule of law. We saw a side of this Government which we must not only disavow but call to full accountability. We have witnessed extra judicial killings. arrests, abductions, extra-judicial killings. Where the Law Society took action, we were met with lack of respect to court orders. 

   LSK has made the following demands  In relation to the complaints of corruption, inefficiency in the Judiciary and weaknesses in the framework for dealing with complaints, we demand a transparent process for tracking, expeditious resolution of complaints, involvement of the Law Society in collection, collation and inquiry of complaints.

 That by the authority of the President, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority and the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights be granted all logistical and strategic support to conduct an Immediate Investigation into all acts of torture and killings related and/or attributed to police misconduct in the course of the protests against the Finance Bill 2024;

The third  demand is that subject to the report of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority and Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, the National Security Council to direct the Inspector General of Police to open disciplinary proceedings against all perpetrators of police misconduct/brutality and torture, and that the reports of such proceedings be availed to the Director of Public Prosecution for Institution of criminal charges.

That the families of all confirmed victims of police killings be traced and that the Independent Policing Oversight Authority and Kenya National Commission on Human Rights provide your Excellency with a rationalized formula for determining adequate compensation for the loss and suffering incidental to the death of their kin;

That subject to the formula presented to your Excellency, the National Security Council directs the Inspector General of Police to undertake the full, unconditional compensation of all the families of deceased victims of police killings without delay:

That the Independent Policing Oversight Authority and Kenya National Commission on Human Rights be directed to collaborate and cooperate with the Law Society of Kenya, humanitarian organizations involved in offering support to victims of police brutality during the protests, and families of suspected victims in both the Investigation and creation of a compensation formula.

That an inter-agency oversight Committee be established to ensure Implementation of these actions and prepare a report which shall be published. 

ANTI COUNTERFEIT AGENCY RELEASES REPORT ON INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY PROTECTION

Kenya has today reaffirmed its commitment to combating counterfeiting and safeguarding

intellectual property (IP) rights with the official release of the Second International Symposium

on Intellectual Property Protection and Enforcement (ISIPPE-2) Report.

Speaking at the event, Chairman of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) Board of Directors,

Hon. Josephat Kabeabea, underscored the importance of a united approach in tackling

counterfeiting. “This report is more than a publication; it is call to action. It is a blueprint for action.Through multi-agency collaborations and the adoption of technology-driven solutions like the Anti-Counterfeit Authority Integrated Management System (AIMS), we are strengthening enforcement mechanisms and facilitating legitimate trade,”

 Prof. Erastus Gatebe the Industrialization Secretary who spoke on behalf of the Chief Guest Hon. Salim Mvurya Mgala, E.G.H., Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Investments, Trade, and Industry.Prof Gatebe reaffirmed government’s commitment to safeguarding Kenya’s economy, innovators, and consumers. “Counterfeiting is a global menace that costs the world economy $2.2 trillion annually. In Kenya, it robs us of approximately KES 100 billion each year. 

counterfeit goods jeopardize lives and undermine fair trade. The ISIPPE-2 Report is a clarion call for collective action to address these challenges comprehensively,” he stated.The ISIPPE-2 symposium, held earlier this year under the theme “United Against Counterfeiting for a Healthy and Safer World,” provided a platform for global dialogue on combating counterfeiting. The report summarizes insights, best practices, and actionable recommendations to strengthen IP protection, enhance enforcement, and promote public awareness.

Early this month, experts validated the National Intellectual Property Policy and Strategy (NIPPS), developed in collaboration with the World Intellectual Property Organization

(WIPO). This policy will foster innovation, attract investment, and ensure fair competition in our

market

The ISIPPE-2 Report’s release comes at a time when the Kenya government has renewed its

efforts towards strengthening its IP protection framework to drive innovation and economic

development. It serves as a rallying call for stakeholders to act decisively against counterfeiting.

Third International Symposium on Intellectual Property Protection and Enforcement (ISIPPE-

3), scheduled for 4-5th June 2025, with a focus on sustainability and advancing enforcement.