Logging licences will no longer be issued in an opaque manner, President William Ruto has announced.

Instead, the President has directed that this should from now on be done through open and public tendering.

This way, Kenyans will get value for forest resources, while transparency will develop the capacity of local industry to utilise them and boost job creation, he said.

"To make sure that we exploit our forest resources in a transparent and effective manner, the old method of allocating forest resources in a manner that is not transparent has to stop,” he said.

"Going forward, all public resources in the forests will be tendered for in a transparent manner.”

He spoke during the passing out parade of Kenya Forest Service (KFS) inspector cadets and forester trainees at the National Youth Service headquarters in Gilgil, Nakuru County, on Monday.

He congratulated the KFS leadership for demonstrable achievements, noting that the reforms instituted at the service two years ago have paid off with illegal logging reducing by 90 per cent in the same period.

Further, President Ruto pointed out, the service now largely runs its operations from internally generated revenue, an example that should be emulated by other government institutions.

"This year, we only supported KFS to the tune of KSh280 million. The rest of the KSh4.7 billlion budget was raised by KFS itself. I have the undertaking of the minister (Enviroment, Climate Change and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Adan Duale) and KFS that next year it will no longer require resources from the Exchequer. You are an example to other agencies that it is possible to run on internally generated resources,” the President said.

During the ceremony, 465 forest officers, the highest number since independence, and 102 forest cadets, the first ever to be hired, graduated.

They joined 2,600 forest rangers hired last year and those already in the service to drive Kenya’s environmental conservation and climate action agenda.

“These achievements speak volumes and consolidate our place as the environmental headquarters of the world,” he said.

He said KFS officers will supervise youth working under the ClimateWorX Mtaani project, which is aimed at greening and cleaning up Kenyan cities and towns.

President Ruto called on the graduates to maintain high standards of professionalism at all times and shun the temptation of engaging in vices that have damaged the image of KFS in the past.

"Do not allow your careers to be tainted by integrity issues, laxity or incompetence,” the President said.

He also announced that the government will give preference to locally manufactured timber products over imported ones.

"We have already taken steps as Government to make sure that the use of locally available forest resources take precedence over imported timber products,” he said.

Moreover, he said the Government will amend the Forest Conservation and Management Act (2016) so that stakeholders in conservation and climate action have effective support to pursue innovation and collaboration to turn forests and forest protection into vehicles of sustainable transformation.

Among those present at the function were Cabinet Secretaries Duale and Ms Rebecca Miano (Tourism and Wildlife), and the Chief Conservator of Forests Alexander Lemarkoko.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged the House leadership to give priority to pending legislative business as the year comes to an end. 

Speaking on Monday at the during the House leadership retreat in Naivasha, Speaker Wetang’ula emphasized the need to ensure House business was completed on time. 

“I urge the Whips of both Majority and Minority to ensure that quorum is achieved to deliver National Assembly Business”, noted Speaker. 

He went on to encourage members to dedicate time for the plenary activities and also Committee meetings even as they carry out their other responsibilities.

"Indeed, the quality of legislation lies in the quality of the draft and the time accorded in generating and processing a particular legislation”, said Dr. Wetang’ula. 

The retreat themed re-invigorating synergy in leadership for accelerated discharge of the Mandate of the National Assembly, is currently underway in Naivasha where National Assembly leadership and Senior Parliamentary staff are engaging in a review of the year’s performance. 

“Members of Parliament are the nerve center of the leadership of this country, they are the chosen few privileged to server the country in different capacities. I therefore encouraged Chairperson of Committee to prioritize pending business before the House and dedicate their time in delivering the legislative instruments on time”, guided Speaker Wetang’ula.  

The Leader of the Majority Party, Hon. Kimani Ichung’wa highlighted recent legislative achievements, including the passage of eight bills and adoption of eighty-nine motions, underscoring Parliament’s commitment to addressing Kenya’s pressing needs.

"Our role extends beyond enacting laws; we are the custodians of policies that foster an enabling business environment, promote investment, and safeguard the interests of both entrepreneurs and citizens," said Hon. Ichung’wah. 

He urged lawmakers to maintain dedication, stating, "Let us continue to approach our work with the same diligence that has brought us this far."

On the other hand, the Minority Party Leader, Hon. June Mohammed called for regular like mind engagement and capacity buildings for legislators to deepen knowledge on legislation. 

He commended the forum saying that it provided a great opportunity to reflect on the House performance, review shortcomings and formulate effective strategies.  

The Cabinet Secretary for energy, Hon. Opiyo Wandayi is in attendance and has delivered remarks on securing the energy sector for sustainable development. 

“As a House Leadership, we have listened to the energy Sector through the Cabinet Secretary, Hon. Opiyo Wandayi who delivered a presentation before the leadership of the House to ensure that together we find out on what is ailing the sector”, acknowledged Speaker Wetang’ula. 

The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KPSA) is scheduled to appear before the leadership tomorrow with the aim of ensuring that proper legislation is in place to provide a concussive environment for all players in the sector. 

Speaker Wetang’ula assured the country that the House is well capacitated and equal to the task of legislation, oversight and representation in performing their cardinal duties. 

The Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr. Samuel Njoroge, highlighted statistics on House performance indicating that 17 Bills had been passed with 8 Bills Assented to, 3 awaiting assent, 6 forwarded to the Senate and 8 in mediation. 

Mr. Njoroge however noted that 49 Bills were set to lapse while 67 Motions were awaiting debate hence calling upon Members to move with speed and process the pending legislations.

The partnership between Stanbic Bank, NBA Africa, and the Luol Deng Foundation, exemplified by the Stanbic Jr. NBA League, has made a significant impact on South Sudan, both in sports and the broader socio-economic landscape.

This initiative not only highlights the growing enthusiasm for basketball among South Sudanese youth but also contributes to the development of vital life skills, fosters national pride, and demonstrates Stanbic Bank’s commitment to the country’s future.

"South Sudan is our home. We drive her growth. We have a strong belief in the youth and the future they represent, which is why we chose to invest in them through the Stanbic Jr. NBA League.

This partnership with the NBA is building the players of tomorrow at the grassroots level,” said Mũmbi Kagombe, Strategy Enablement Manager at Stanbic Bank South Sudan.

South Sudan, although a relatively young nation, has already made considerable progress in basketball.

The national team’s historic qualification for the 2024 Paris Olympics is a remarkable achievement, especially for a country that gained independence only in 2011.

Finishing ninth overall, the team showcased South Sudan's potential on a global platform, making the nation proud of its athletes’ achievements.

Players like Carlik Jones, a standout at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, and Wenyen Gabriel, currently with Maccabi Tel Aviv, serve as inspirational figures for South Sudan’s aspiring basketball players.

The Jr. NBA League provides the critical infrastructure needed to nurture such talent, giving boys and girls across the country the opportunity to sharpen their skills in basketball while also learning teamwork, discipline, and leadership.

“We at Stanbic Bank are proud to be part of this journey, investing in young champions who will not only excel in athletics but also become responsible and engaged citizens of this beautiful country,” added Mũmbi.

Participation in basketball at the grassroots level is growing rapidly in South Sudan.

In season one, which ran from March 2024 to August 2024, 270 boys and 180 girls participated in the league, with many others eager to join future seasons.

For these young players, the league represents more than just an opportunity to play a sport; it offers a path to scholarships and the potential for brighter futures, both within and beyond basketball.

The broader NBA Africa initiative, through its Jr. NBA program, has reached over 170,000 young people across the continent.

In South Sudan, the collaboration with Stanbic Bank and the Luol Deng Foundation is extending this reach, providing a platform of hope and opportunity for the country’s youth.

Economically, South Sudan continues to face challenges, yet initiatives like the Jr. NBA League offer hope to a population where over 70% are young people.

While the economy remains heavily reliant on oil exports, there are growing efforts to diversify, with increased investments in education, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.

Stanbic Bank, operating in South Sudan for over 11 years, has played a pivotal role in driving these sectors. Its investment in sports, particularly through the SteJr.

NBA League, is part of a broader strategy to foster human capital development, creating opportunities for young people to succeed not only in sports but also in business and leadership roles.

South Sudan’s GDP growth rate was estimated at 5.4% in 2023, with further improvements projected for 2024.

The country’s focus on rebuilding infrastructure, enhancing education, and promoting social cohesion is essential for its development, and Stanbic Bank's support for these initiatives is crucial.

Through strategic partnerships with government entities and international organizations, Stanbic is committed to driving sustainable growth.

The Stanbic Jr. NBA League aligns with these national objectives by providing a valuable platform for youth engagement, promoting education, and fostering a sense of national pride and unity. Engaging the youth in such initiatives is critical to the country’s continued progress.

"The final games were a lot of fun. We had top government officials, Corporates, NGOs, South Sudan National Team players (men and women), NBA Legend Cedric Ceballos, Luol Deng, President of the South Sudan Basketball Federation and Founder of the Luol Deng Foundation, and other key partners attend the finals. This demonstrates the significance of the event to the socio-economic growth of South Sudan and its people,” noted Mũmbi.

Basketball has become a unifying force in South Sudan, bringing communities together. From the unveiling of a FIBA standard outdoor basketball court at St. Mark’s Orthodox School in Juba to the enthusiastic participation of over 30 schools in the Stanbic Jr. NBA League, the sport is catalysing positive change.

Beyond the game itself, the league provides young athletes with access to education, mentoring, and the possibility of pursuing careers both in and outside of basketball.

This focus on education and skill development offers a lifeline to many young people in South Sudan, giving them hope for a brighter future.

This holistic approach to development is central to Stanbic Bank’s vision for the country—empowering the next generation through sport, education, and entrepreneurship.

 The league created employment for  30 coaches and 36 referees (18 male and 18 female) trained and certified by the NBA, as well as six media volunteers trained and given exposure working with the NBA digital team.

The Stanbic Jr. NBA League is more than just a basketball tournament. It is a symbol of hope for South Sudanese youth, equipping them with the tools they need to build better futures for themselves and their country.

The partnership between Stanbic Bank, NBA Africa, and the Luol Deng Foundation plays a pivotal role in nurturing talent, fostering unity, and driving socio-economic development, ensuring that the young people of South Sudan have every opportunity to succeed, both on and off the court.

Pamoja African Alliance (PAA) party national treasurer Sureya Hersi is dead.

Hersi who has served in several leadership positions at the Coast region died on Friday morning at a Mombasa hospital where she was receiving treatment, according to reports.

She was the wife to renowned hotelier Mohammed Hersi

She vied for the Mombasa Woman Representative seat under the Republican Congress party, in the 2013 general election.

"Ina Lillahi Wa Ina Illahi Rajioun. We regrettably announce the death of Sureya Ali Roble wife of Mohammed Hersi. 25/10/2024Salatul janaza will be at Masjid Nur Bondeni after Jumaa prayers followed by burial at Kikowani Muslim cemetery thereafter .May Allah Grant Marhuma  Jannatul Firdoush.  Kul Nafsi zakatul maut." reads a message from the PAA strategic officer Maimuna Mwidau.

Hersi a vocal women rights activist at the Coast region will be remembered for her efforts in fighting for the rights of Women and girls especially during her days as the Chairlady,  Maendeleo ya Wanawake Coast region.

EALA Mp Suleiman Shahbal said Mombasa has lost a powerful voice.

"Today, I have lost a friend and political comrade. Sureya Hersi was a very warm and friendly woman who brought a sense of decency to our politics. She was a powerful woman who shared my vision for changing Mombasa and often encouraged me whenever I felt down. We walked together in our political journey, and shared the passion not only for Mombasa but for the people of Kenya. She was at one time the national Vice Chair of Maendeleo Ya Wanawake. Mombasa has lost a powerful voice." said Shahbal.

Mombasa walk movement founder Idris Abdirahman eulogised her as a dedicated Women leader.

"Her unwavering commitment to advocacy and women's rights made a profound impact on the community in Mombasa. Sureya’s voice and spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May Allah grant her eternal peace in Janatul Firdous.Hersi, Inna lillahi Waina ilayhi Raajiun" posted Abdirahman.

Azeezah Hashim was crowned Media Personality of the Year at the prestigious Odartey Style and Fashion Awards (OSFAs). The event which took place on the 19th of this month is renowned for celebrating excellence in fashion and media in Ghana. 

Azeezah, known for her vibrant fun personality and passion for entertainment, stands out as a powerhouse in the media landscape. Her journey, marked by authenticity and dedication, has inspired audiences not only in Kenya, but across West Africa. Winning this coveted award affirms her influence in redefining the standards of media excellence.

"This award means everything to me. It’s a testament to the power of hard work, passion, and staying true to who you are," Azeezah said of her winning the award. "I’m grateful to everyone who has supported me on this journey—my family, friends, and fans—and I dedicate this win to all the dreamers out there."

Azeezah's win further cements her status as a force to reckon with in the entertainment industry and signals the start of even bigger things to come. Whether on screen, radio, or at live events, she continues to captivate audiences with her talent and charm.

Kaka Empire, which manages Azeezah, expressed immense pride in her achievement. “Azeezah is a star on the rise, and this award is a reflection of the passion she brings to her work every day. The future is undoubtedly bright for her,” said Kat Mirero, Head of Communication and PR at Kaka Empire.

Jubilee Health Insurance, in collaboration with Diamond Trust Bank (DTB), has today unveiled a revolutionary digital payment solution that aims to transform how health insurance premiums are paid.

This first-of-its-kind solution in the healthcare industry offers a flexible instalment payment option, making healthcare more accessible and affordable for a broader segment of the population.

This innovation marks a significant leap in the health insurance landscape, combining cutting-edge digital platforms with customer-centric design to solve one of the industry's most persistent challenges—affordability.

For years, many households in Kenya, particularly in rural and lower-income areas, have faced financial barriers when accessing healthcare.

According to the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS) 2022, over 20% of Kenyans still lack access to health insurance, and 30% of the population faces catastrophic healthcare costs due to the burden of upfront medical payments.

Now, with this online process, customers can complete their health insurance transactions in just five easy steps using their mobile phones.

Whether purchasing a new health insurance policy or renewing an existing one, customers can apply, select an installment plan, and receive instant approval—ensuring they are covered right away.

"This innovation is a game-changer for the industry," said Njeri Jomo, CEO of Jubilee Health Insurance.

"We understand that today's customers need flexibility, convenience, and affordability. Our solution delivers all of these, allowing them to get the coverage they need without the burden of upfront payments."

DTB’s involvement is integral to the success of this solution, as the bank provides the financial infrastructure for managing instalment payments, ensuring customers experience a smooth and reliable payment process.

Nasim Devji, Group CEO of DTB, said: " This partnership allows us to leverage our financial expertise to provide solutions that reduce the financial burden on individuals and families, ensuring that health coverage is within reach for a larger portion of the population."

This Lipa Polepole solution, designed with the customer in mind leverages technology to provide real-time approval for health insurance coverage.

Customers can access their health cover instantly through a secure platform that eliminates the need for paperwork or lengthy approval processes.

The solution caters to individuals, families, and small businesses, offering flexible payment terms that allow premiums to be paid overtime.

Jubilee Health’s digital installment option is the first in the market to integrate instant, digital financing options with health insurance, setting a new standard for how health insurance is offered.

This move is anticipated to influence how other industry players approach premium financing, further driving innovation in healthcare access.

"We are proud to lead this charge in transforming healthcare access in Kenya," Jomo added. 

With this new digital payment option, customers can now sign up for health coverage online via www.jubileekenya.com, select their desired installment plan, and receive instant approval.

This allows them to remain insured without the pressure of significant upfront payments, providing peace of mind and financial flexibility.

Through this strategic partnership, Jubilee Health Insurance and DTB are leading the charge in digitizing healthcare access and empowering more people across Africa to secure their health.

Internationally celebrated Afrobeats singer-songwriter Lojay, known for global hits like “Monalisa” (Sarz) and “Sensational” (with Chris Brown and Davido), is back with an exciting twin release.

Renowned for his smooth melodies, captivating lyrics, and seamless genre fusion, Lojay presents “Falling / Unleash”.

“Unleash” paints a vivid picture of navigating the hustle and the personal battles that come with chasing success in a city that never sleeps, whilst “Falling” is a testament to his versatility as a trailblazer in the Afrobeats scene, encapsulating the blissful essence of falling in love through Lojay’s signature lyricism.

“Falling” is a track designed to make you smile, daydream and feel the warmth of a genuine connection from beginning to end, “and that was my intention for the song because that’s what love does to you”, says Lojay,.

Adding on its magnetic pull and creation, “Long story short, I caught feelings and was essentially trying to capture those feelings in a song so my fellow softies could listen and grin with pure excitement.”

On “Falling”, Lojay taps into the euphoric feeling of being consumed by love. The single flows with dreamy, soft melodies and a punchy, infectious production that invites listeners into a state of pure happiness. 

On the flip side, “Unleash” produced by regular collaborators, the Grammy-nominated Sarz and Moon Willis, reveals Lojay's perspective on the gritty realities of modern life in Lagos.

With a bold, pulsating beat and sultry chords, Lojay weaves a narrative that explores societal pressures, the hustle for survival, and the harsh juxtaposition between beauty and struggle.

The production’s heavy drums, infectious rhythm and smooth textures elevate the song’s intensity and depth.

On the creation of “Unleash”, Lojay says, “Unleash highlights the daily struggle of trying to keep up with the pressures of society today. It’s Lagos living in a nutshell, honestly. It’s brutal and beautiful at the same time, and my intention was to encapsulate that in the song with a mix of sultry chords, heavy drums, and a vocal texture that just brings it all together.”

This double release features contrasting yet complementary tracks that highlight Lojay’s depth as an artist and storyteller.

As Lojay impresses with the latest project–his growing fanbase can expect another masterful demonstration of his artistry, pushing the boundaries of Afrobeats to new heights.

This year alone, Lojay has collaborated with artists such as Simi, Jae5, and Ayra Starr, and released his single “Billions” with Sarz. His recent feature on Fireboy DML’s album ‘Adedamola’ has also garnered widespread acclaim.

Kenya’s leading technology company, Safaricom, is today celebrating 24 years of connecting and transforming lives of Kenyans since its official launch on 23rd October 2000.

As part of the celebration themed “24 Years of Transforming Lives: Celebrating Through Service,” Safaricom will be showing appreciation to its customers through a variety of service and product offerings across the country.

These include special M-PESA surprises, merchandise giveaways, distribution of Mama Packs, transportation delights, and other exciting customer rewards.

“As we mark 24 years of connecting Kenyans, I want to immensely thank our loyal customers for walking with us on this exciting journey. Because of you, we have grown from a telco to a cornerstone of innovation, empowerment and progress in Kenya. Your trust and unwavering support have inspired us every step of the way.” said Peter Ndegwa, CEO at Safaricom.

Over the last two decades, Safaricom has evolved from a telecommunications provider to a key player in the technological, economic, and social transformation of Kenya.

Safaricom has grown exponentially, positioning itself as a pillar of innovation, empowerment, and progress in the country.

From its humble beginnings as a mobile network operator, the company has expanded its portfolio to include revolutionary services such as M-PESA, its mobile money platform, and other digital solutions that have changed how Kenyans live, work, and do business.

Safaricom has also played a crucial role in enhancing network connectivity, evolving from its initial 2G services to the current 5G network, which offers unparalleled internet speeds and capabilities.

This progression has enabled Kenya to embrace emerging technologies, positioning the country at the forefront of the global digital economy.

Beyond its business achievements, Safaricom has also made a significant impact on the lives of Kenyans through its sports assets and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

The Safaricom Foundation has invested billions of shillings in health, education, economic empowerment, and environmental conservation projects, all aimed at uplifting communities across Kenya.

These initiatives reflect the company’s commitment to driving positive societal change and making a lasting impact on the lives of Kenyans.

In celebration of its 24th anniversary, Safaricom will also embark on a yearlong series of activities aimed at engaging its diverse stakeholders, including customers, investors, communities, partners, employees, and the media. The company will also work closely with regulators and government bodies to advance the industry and foster stronger relationships.