Members of Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) have today reaffirmed their commitment to improving reproductive health rights for women and girls across the country. 

In a round table meeting, Women Parliamentarians engaged key partners namely; United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), representatives from the Ministry of Health and International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH) Kenya to explore ways on strengthening Menstrual Health and Hygiene Management in Kenya.

Women MPs stressed on the need for a consistent budget allocations, cross sectional collaboration and firm accountability so as to ensure that no girl misses school or losses her dignity because of menstruation.

They applauded Senator Gloria Orwoba for sponsoring the Provision of Sanitary Towels Bill, 2024, exuding confidence in the Bill. 

"If passed, the Bill will institutionalize the free and quality provision of sanitary towels in public schools and facilities nationwide, a game changer for menstrual justice in Kenya," Nairobi County MP. Hon. Esther Passaris said.

The meeting also provided a platform to explore possible areas of collaboration and sensitize Women Parliamentarians to the "Flow with Pride Campaign" launched by UNFPA with funding from the Embassy of Denmark, which seeks to combat period stigma and ensure menstrual dignity for every girl.

UNFPA representative, Mr. Anders Thomsen emphasized the importance of local production of sanitary towels to make them more affordable to the users.

Research held in 2022 by the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS) revealed that 65% of girls in rural areas and 52% in urban areas face difficulties in accessing sanitary products, a reality that still hinders some girls from attending school during their menstrual cycle. 

Dr. Jackline Kisia, from Ministry of Health called for the expansion of the sanitary towels distribution beyond Primary and Secondary schools.

"We need to include Tertiary Institutions as recommended by a Parliamentary Committee in 2023," she said

Dr. Kisia posed, "Why do girls deserve dignity during school sessions only? Do poverty go on holidays?"

In her closing remarks, KEWOPA vice chairperson and Dagoretti North MP. Hon. Beatrice Elachi acknowledged the support given by partners in ending period poverty in Kenya.

"We thank UNFPA, JHPIEGO, the Ministry of Health and other partners in walking with us this important journey in making menstruation manageable for every Kenyan girl," she said.

Ugandan music legend and cultural powerhouse Bebe Cool has officially released his long-awaited album ‘Break the Chains’.

The album offers lush arrangements, rich melodies and genre-bending compositions that reflect his evolution while staying true to the artistry that made him a star.

Speaking at his album release party in Kampala ahead of the release, Bebe Cool said, “This is the beginning of a new journey for both African music and Ugandan music at large. With this album, I want to inspire, innovate and show that African artists can tell powerful stories while owning our digital space.”

This 17-track body of work represents a bold and refreshing chapter in Bebe Cool’s acclaimed career. Known for shaping the modern Ugandan sound and pioneering East Africa’s musical identity, Bebe Cool takes a leap forward with a sound that blends Afrobeats, Afropop, Afrotech and Afro-house, all anchored in his distinctive voice and emotive delivery. 

‘Break the Chains’ includes high-profile collaborations with Nigerian Afro-pop sensation Yemi Alade  in “African Love”, rising Ugandan star Joshua Baraka in “Cheque” and international Kenyan DJ and producer DJ Edu in “Games”. 

The album’s lead single “Circumference” produced by Nigerian hitmaker PhilKeyz, introduced a playful yet sonically rich anthem that blends Afrobeat rhythms with Bebe Cool’s signature flair.

The follow-up single, “Motivation” produced by Bushington and Melanin Boy, showcased a more romantic and inspirational side of Bebe Cool. The track was supported by a cinematic music video directed by South Africa’s Garrick Williams.

Bebe Cool’s musical journey has always been defined by reinvention. From his early days in Nairobi as one of the first artists signed to Ogopa Deejays, to his success with Necessary Noize as part of the award-winning East African Bashment Crew, he has never stopped pushing creative boundaries.

Hits like “Africa Unite” and “Fire Anthem” helped shape a generation of African music lovers.

Now, with ‘Break the Chains’, he is taking that legacy further—bridging cultures, genres and generations through music.

This album offers a compelling mix of dance anthems, love songs and thoughtful reflections that highlight Bebe Cool’s range and ability to evolve.

From the booming energy of Afrotech beats to tender ballads rooted in Afro-pop, it’s a celebration of sound, identity and artistic freedom.

Break the Chains is available now on all digital streaming platforms. Check it out on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music and all major streaming platforms.

Safaricom (NSE: SCOM), has today announced a nationwide campaign, dubbed the ‘M-PESA Sokoni Festival’, aimed at delighting its customers across the country with exciting product offers. The festival is part of the year-long celebrations to Safaricom’s 25^th anniversary in October this year.

The festival will bring together more than 150 local and national businesses from across the country, offering 'deals kuruka' that will see customers enjoy incredible discounts on devices, electronics, household items, beauty and fashion products, travel, and more.

“M-PESA Sokoni is more than just a marketplace; it is a unique family friendly event where we are offering our esteemed customers an opportunity to enjoy amazing deals on a variety of products, great entertainment, and business owners get an opportunity to showcase their products and services, connect with customers and grow their brands,” said Safaricom CEO, Dr. Peter Ndegwa.

The campaign kicks off in Mombasa with several activities lined up throughout the week, starting with Safire Connect - a forum that brings together like-minded individuals to exchange ideas on hustle, personal branding, opportunities within the community and financial wellness.

This will be followed by a programme by the M-PESA Foundation, dubbed Wezesha Mama, which will bring together women groups from the region for financial and digital literacy training as well as an opportunity to access seed capital to boost their business activities.

Safaricom will also host regional M-PESA Agents Awards to recognize and award M-PESA agent stores that have shown exemplary performance over the last year.

For businesses across the country, the Grow with Safaricom Business forums aim to empower SMEs with the knowledge and skills that can help them to sustainably accelerate their growth and overcome challenges such as digitization of their operations, limited access to markets, regulatory barriers, brand building, and a lack of digital marketing skills.

The coastal tour will culminate on Saturday, 7^th June at Mombasa Sports Club Grounds with the M-PESA Sokoni Festival.

“As Safaricom, we pride ourselves at being the biggest supporter of Kenyan passion points through music, sports and culture and the M-PESA Sokoni Festival is a great opportunity to showcase this. For those who will not manage to come physically, the offers will also be available on our e-commerce platform, Masoko.com,” Dr. Ndegwa added.

The two-month campaign is part of the ongoing M-PESA at 18 celebrations, marking M-PESA’s transformative role in Kenya’s digital and financial landscape and the positive impact it has had on the lives of millions of Kenyans.

Through the campaign, Safaricom customers will also learn about and be empowered by various Safaricom products and services, including Ziidi MMF, Taasi Till and Taasi Pochi, Fuliza ya Biashara, Pochi la Biashara, Lipa na M-PESA, Safaricom Hook, Safaricom Emerald, and Masoko.

Mombasa County Commissioner Mohammed Noor has challenged the youth to take an active role in environment conservation and climate change mitigation.

According Noor, the youth are better positioned to champion for environment conservation.

Addressing a youth gathering at a Pre World Environment Day forum organised by Manyata Africa in partnership with Forum Civ Eastern and Southern Africa Hub, Wajibu wetu, Jumuika Sikika among other partners, at the little theatre club, Noor said the government is keen in engaging the youth in conserving the environemnt.

"As you have all been seeing, our president has always been advocating for environment conservation and he has been keen in working so I call upon you all here today to take up that challenge and work towards a better tomorrow."

The County Commissioner also noted that the government will employ over 18,000 youth in Mombasa under the Climate Worx project.

Climate WorX initiative is a flagship environmental and employment program aimed at rehabilitating critical ecosystems particularly urban river corridors while creating job opportunities for Kenyan youth.

"We are looking into employing 18,300 youth under the program." said Noor.

Adding " I encourage our young people to apply for this opportunity, to just sit and come to complain later."

On his part the head of solid waste management under the county department of environment Rogers Wangila called on the residents to ensure they work closely with the county government is conserving environment.

"All is needee is just behavioral change and more sensitization, it is not the Governor who throws waste in the streets , it is us as the residents and we are also the ones to suffer so please lets change our behaviour and keep our city clean." said Wangila.

Adding "Currently we generate 10047 tonnes of waste a day and this is mainly from our homes, the county has no capacity to handle this and this why we also have to be responsible as residents and also look into ways on how we can recycle some of this waste."

Safaricom-sponsored Adil Khawaja of Car No. 44 (AK44) has emerged as the top fundraiser in the 2025 edition of the Rhino Charge, raising KES 139.8 million in support of conservation efforts for Kenya’s critical water towers.

The second-highest fundraising team was Car No. 23, led by Peter Kinyua, which raised KES 13.5 million. Car No. 63, led by Tim Carstens, secured third place with KES 8.6 million.

“I want to thank all our sponsors, from corporates like Safaricom to the many individuals who supported my team and me in raising funds for this noble cause of environmental protection. We couldn’t have done it without your support,” said Adil Khawaja, Team Lead , AK44.

“While we didn’t hit our mark, we’re proud of what we achieved. We’re even more motivated to reach our goal next year. Overall, this year’s challenge was one of the best, featuring tough terrain and stunning landscapes.”

This year’s event was held in Saimo-Soi, Baringo county, and attracted 64 competing vehicles.

Participants navigated rugged terrain in a unique motorsport challenge that raises funds for the conservation of Kenya’s water towers. This year’s edition raised a total of KES 269.5 million.

In the competition results, Team Huzi (Car No. 33), led by Jeremy Holley, took top honors after successfully navigating all 13 checkpoints across the challenging 27.3 km course.

The Smiling Shenzis (Car No. 22), led by Gray Cullen, came in second, while 2023 champions Team 48 Glen (Car No. 48), led by Mark Glen, secured third place.

“As a team, we’re really proud to have won this year’s title. It’s our first time finishing at the top in the 15 years we’ve participated. Last year we came in third, and this year we were determined to do better. This event is very important to us, and we remain committed to supporting its purpose,” said Jeremy Holley.

Safaricom contributed a total of KES 25.8 million towards the event through Car No. 44 and the EV Explorers, marking the first time an electric vehicle participated in the competition.

In addition to financial support, Safaricom also provided 5G connectivity at the event and created an immersive “Emerald Experience” for attendees.

Fans and spectators were treated to an unforgettable evening of music and entertainment, including a rare opportunity to watch the UEFA Champions League Final live in the wilderness.

 The highly anticipated 2025 Rhino Charge is set for tomorrow, Saturday at Saimo Soi in Baringo North.

The annual event, now in its 36th edition, has attracted 64 cars, among them the EV Explorers. Sponsored by M-PESA, it is the first electric vehicle to take part in the Rhino Charge.

“We have been part of this event for the past 23 years, but this is the first time we will be using an electric vehicle in the challenge. A historic moment for sustainable motorsport in Kenya. Climate change affects us all and it has a direct impact on conservation. That’s why we decided to take on this year’s Rhino Charge with an electric vehicle. We are embracing a more sustainable approach as we work to protect our environment and biodiversity. As a team, we are truly grateful to Safaricom and M-PESA for their significant support in helping us achieve this goal,” said Richard Kiplagat, EV Explorer Team Leader.

Safaricom-sponsored Adil Khawaja of Car No.44 who was last year’s top fundraiser is seeking a top  finish in the 2025 Rhino Charge. In 2024, Mr. Khawaja and the AK 44 team raised a total of KES. 175 million. Overall, the event set a historic record of KES. 325.8 million to support the Rhino Ark activities in environment conservation.

Other notable participants set for this year’s event include five-time winners Car No. 5, led by Graham McKittrick, 2023 champions Car No. 4, led by Mark Glen, Car No. 43  led by Peter Kinyua, Moto Moto led by Rajesh Maini, the bubbly Fat Rhinos, Smiling Shenzis, BATUK, Team Huzi, and Zambarau Heels on the Wheel.

“We have been charging for over 20 years now and it is something we are really passionate about. I do it with my family and we are glad for the impact the event creates to support the environment and the ecosystem. We are fully prepared for tomorrow, and the car is in good condition. We want to have fun even as we take part in the challenge. It is not easy, but again we thank the organizers and all sponsors for making it a success,” said Patrick Garner, Team Lead, Car No. 49.

The Rhino Charge aims to raise funds to support the activities of the Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust. The Trust focuses on preserving ecosystems, biodiversity, and livelihoods through environmental conservation.

This year’s Rhino Charge received significant sponsorship of KES 25.8 million through Car No. 44 (AK 44) and EV Explorers (Car No. 29) as well as network connectivity from Safaricom PLC.

Safaricom has supported Rhino Charge for over a decade, helping raise more than KES 2.4 billion for conservation. The funds have supported electric fencing in areas like Mt. Kenya, the Aberdares, and Kakamega Forest, as well as the protection of water towers and natural habitats across Kenya.

As Kenyans prepare to mark the historical Madaraka day celebration, coca-cola company's 'Share a Coke'Campaign is spark joy and memorable experiences to travellers heading to different parts of the country and in Uganda.

In the activations,over 1000 passengers boarding Easy Coach buses to western Kenya and Kampala will receive two personalized coke cans-one for themselves and one to share with family.

The company  Senior Manager, Communications Coca-Cola East and Central Africa Franchise Paul Oloo says the Compaign is a way to turn ordinary trips to memorable journeys filled with smiles, stories and shared experiences.

At Jambo jet check in counters ,the company is also surprising passengers flying to Mombasa,Ukunda,Malindi and Kisumu with personalized cans of Coke sparking joy from take off to touch down.

"This Madaraka day,Coca-cola is taking the experience even further bringing joy directly to travellers on the move,"reads a statement shared with our news desk on Friday.

The surprise gesture is expected to bring a memorable excitement and cheer to the bus and airport terminals, turning ordinary journeys into memorable experiences

Coca-Cola Kenya continues to bring its 'Share a Coke' campaign to different parts of the coast region reminding Kenyans that sometimes, a simple bottle of soda with a familiar name is all it takes to make someone’s day.

Coca-Cola relaunched its global “Share a Coke” campaign in Kenya in April this year, bringing back personalized Coke bottles and cans featuring individual names.

The campaign, first introduced in 2011, replaces the brand’s logo with popular first names and encourages consumers to connect through shared experiences.

The initiative targets a new generation of consumers, particularly Gen Z, who are increasingly drawn to authentic, personalized experiences both online and offline.

Countrywide activations are also planned at malls, colleges, eateries, and other public spaces, where consumers can find personalized bottles and take part in various campaign activities.

In addition to in-person events, the campaign has also entered in digital presence on TikTok, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), with users encouraged to share their experiences using the hashtag #ShareaCoke.

The company says the campaign aims to highlight real-life social interactions at a time when traditional communal spaces are becoming less common. 

Personalized Coke bottles and cans are now available in stores, supermarkets, and entertainment venues countrywide.

The “Share a Coke” campaign will run in all parts of the country as Kenya celebrated the Madaraka day celebration.