Danubius International University (DIU), an EU-accredited institution based in Galați, Romania, and AspiraPath LLC, a Kenya-based EU academic pathway company, have signed partnership agreements with five of Kenya's leading universities, establishing East Africa's first structured, fully managed Kenya-Romania EU academic corridor.

The agreements  signed at Amref International University, Strathmore University, Kabarak University, Moi University, and Pwani University between May 28 - 2 nd June, 2026  create a framework connecting Kenyan students to EU-accredited Masters degree programmes through Erasmus+ inter-institutional agreements, a managed student pipeline, joint research collaboration, and dual degree programmes that award both a Kenyan qualification and a European credential simultaneously.

Essentially, the move seeks to place Kenya among the first in East Africa to establish a managed academic corridor linking domestic institutions to the European Union, at a time when universities across the region are under pressure to widen global reach linkages, diversify funding channels and expand mobility opportunities for students.

According to Cynthia Kropac, founder AspiraPath LLC, the pathway company, framed the initiative as an attempt to reshape how African learners access international academic capital, “We are building bridges between African ambition and European opportunity.

The institutions signing this week are the founding architects of something that will outlast us all – a corridor that grows with every student placed, every research paper published and every graduate who returns to build Kenya’s future,” she said.

On his part, Dr. Steve O. Michael - Danubius International University’s President and CEO reiterated that cross border university frameworks can indeed deliver sustainable academic growth without eroding the autonomy or developmental mandate of local institutions,

“Kenya's academic institutions are among the most dynamic in Africa. This corridor is a genuine partnership between equals — built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to student outcomes that change lives.”

They were both speaking during the delegation’s courtesy visit to the Embassy of Romania in Nairobi, where they met the Ambassador to Kenya, H.E Gentiana Serbu.

Also speaking on the partnership during the signing ceremony, Professor Kiplagat Kotut, the Vice Chancellor of Moi University, emphasised the importance of collaboration in fostering academic excellence and global engagement.

“This partnership represents a significant step in the University’s ongoing commitment to expanding its global engagement and building meaningful collaborations that strengthen academic excellence, innovation, and knowledge exchange.”

While welcoming the delegation, the Pwani University Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Hilda Ongayo, emphasized the value of strategic global partnerships in enriching learning experiences, promoting intercultural understanding, and equipping students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. Professor Henry Kiplagat, Vice-Chancellor, Kabarak University equally underscored the importance of international partnerships in enriching both teaching and research,

“Through such international partnerships, Kabarak University continues to broaden opportunities for students, faculty, and researchers, reinforcing its commitment to global academic and professional excellence.” T

he Romania – Kenya engagement arrives at a time when African governments are being compelled to rethink education financing and partnerships. A demand for competitive, internationally benchmarked qualifications continues to rise, forcing universities to search for new models of collaboration that can outlive short-cycle funding shifts.

This latest collaboration also reflects a widening interest among EU Universities in Africa’s emerging student markets, which have grown steadily despite economic pressures and constrained public funding.

Mombasa Senator Mohamed Faki has criticized the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) over plans to outsource key services at the Port of Mombasa, warning that the move could threaten jobs and undermine the future of the country's maritime workforce.

Speaking in Mombasa, Senator Faki expressed concern over recent advertisements by KPA seeking to outsource services, including the hiring of workers and the provision of equipment.

According to the senator, outsourcing labour would mean that workers would no longer be directly employed by KPA but by private agencies contracted to provide manpower.

"KPA has advertised the outsourcing of some services, including the hiring of workers. This is very wrong because the workers will not be employees of KPA but of the agencies that bring them,” said Faki.

He warned that the move could place the jobs of current port workers at risk and create uncertainty within the workforce.

“This also means that those already working at the port risk losing their jobs. We must protect workers and ensure they have job security,” he added.

The senator further argued that outsourcing labour would gradually erode the development of skilled and experienced career port workers, which he said has been a key pillar in the growth of the port sector.

"If this continues, there will be no career port workers in future because employment will be controlled by agencies instead of the authority itself,” he said.

Faki also opposed KPA’s plans to outsource equipment and machinery services, saying the authority should continue investing in and owning its own operational equipment.

“KPA has also advertised the outsourcing of equipment. This means the authority will no longer be buying its own equipment, which is wrong,” he stated.

The senator maintained that KPA should focus on strengthening its internal capacity rather than relying on private firms to undertake core port functions.

He called on the authority and relevant government agencies to reconsider the outsourcing plans and engage stakeholders, including workers and labour unions, before implementing any changes.

Principal Secretary for the State Department for Science, Research and Innovation, Prof. Abdulrazak Shaukat, has challenged the Wamiji community to establish an education fund aimed at supporting learners and improving educational outcomes among young people.

Addressing members of the community during an Eid Baraza in Mombasa, Prof. Shaukat described education as the most powerful tool for transforming lives and uplifting communities.

"There is a need for the community to establish an education fund to promote education among our people. Investing in education is investing in our future," he said.

The PS noted that education would enable more young people to access opportunities and effectively compete in the modern economy.

He also urged residents to register for the Social Health Authority (SHA).

"Make sure you register for SHA because it works. My uncle is currently undergoing treatment and SHA has already paid over Sh200,000 for his medical care," he said

Additionally, he encouraged voter registration and participation in government programmes designed for marginalized communities.

Prof. Shaukat further lauded President William Ruto for championing inclusivity and ensuring no community is left behind in national development.

Leaders from the Swahili community have called for greater unity, investment in education, and youth empowerment as key pillars for the community's social and economic development.

Speaking during an Eid Baraza for the Wamiji community meeting , Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir emphasized the importance of unity and strategic planning in advancing the interests of the community.

"We might be small in numbers as a community, but if we organize ourselves well and remain united, I believe we can go far," said the Governor. He urged community members to work together in addressing common challenges and pursuing shared development goals.

Senator Mohamed Faki echoed the Governor's sentiments, noting that many regions and communities have achieved significant development through unity and collective action.

"There are other regions that have developed because of their unity. We need to stop our infighting and unite if we are to develop as a people," he said.

The Senator highlighted education as a critical tool for empowering future generations, supporting proposals to establish an education fund specifically for the Swahili community.

"Having an education fund for the Swahili community is a noble idea that deserves support and encouragement," he stated.

Faki further pledged support for youth-focused initiatives, saying leaders were ready to facilitate forums that would equip young people with skills, mentorship, and guidance to navigate emerging opportunities.

He particularly pointed to the blue economy as a sector with immense potential for employment and entrepreneurship.

"The blue economy is a new frontier with vast opportunities, and we need to encourage our youth to explore it," he added.

Changamwe MP Omar Mwinyi also stressed the need for unity among members of the Swahili community, describing such gatherings as important platforms for dialogue and collective action.

"There is a need for us as the Swahili community to remain united. Such forums bring us together to discuss our issues and promote unity," he said.

The legislator urged the community to actively advocate for its interests at the national level, arguing that meaningful change can only be achieved through a united voice.

"If we do not raise our issues at the national level and with the government, no one will do it for us. The reality is that many governments have historically overlooked us, and this can only change if we remain united and speak with one voice," he said.

The meeting brought together community elders, leaders, professionals, and youth representatives to discuss strategies for strengthening the Swahili community's socio-economic position and preserving its cultural heritage while embracing emerging opportunities.

As the construction of the Maritime Survival Training and Certification Centre gains momentum at Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA), Kenyan investors have been urged to grab emerging opportunities within the shipping and Blue Economy sectors.

This call was made by Kenya School of Revenue Administration (KESRA) Commissioner, Dr. Mugambi Mwirigi, during a visit to the Academy.

Dr. Mugambi emphasized the untapped potential within Kenya’s maritime space, noting that increased investment in sea transport could significantly boost the Country’s economy.

He challenged local investors to rethink transportation along the Coast, questioning why viable sea routes such as Mombasa to Lamu or Diani to Kilifi remain underutilized.

According to him, these routes present a lucrative opportunity that could generate billions of shillings annually if properly developed and supported.

“This is a goldmine that Kenya is sitting on. With the right investment and infrastructure, sea transport can transform coastal economies and create thousands of jobs,” said Dr. Mugambi.

He further encouraged innovation within the sector, proposing ventures such as floating restaurants and maritime tourism experiences, which would not only diversify the Blue Economy but also create employment opportunities for youth in both the maritime and hospitality industries.

Dr. Mugambi commended Bandari Maritime Academy for its critical role in training and producing competent seafarers, noting that the availability of skilled manpower is a key enabler in the growth of the maritime industry.

On his part, BMA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Eric Katana, reaffirmed the Academy’s commitment to advancing maritime education and training in the region.

He noted that the ongoing development of the Maritime Survival Training and Certification Centre will position the institution as a regional hub for world-class maritime safety and survival training.

Dr. Katana added that the facility will enhance the preparedness of seafarers to meet international standards while supporting the broader growth of Kenya’s Blue Economy agenda.

The Maritime Survival Training and Certification Centre is expected to play a pivotal role in equipping maritime professionals with critical safety skills, further strengthening Kenya’s competitiveness in the global shipping industry.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has officially launched the 2026 edition of the IGAD Media Awards, calling on journalists, filmmakers, photographers, broadcasters, digital creators, and storytellers across the region to submit impactful stories focusing on migration, labour mobility, displacement, and regional integration.

This year’s awards will be held under the theme, “Human Mobility for Regional Integration: Free Movement, Decent Work, Protection and Shared Prosperity.” According to IGAD, the initiative seeks to promote responsible, human-centred, and evidence-based storytelling on migration and mobility issues affecting the Horn of Africa and neighbouring regions.

Submissions opened on May 25, 2026 and will run until July 31, 2026, with eligible entries required to have been published, broadcast, or aired from January 2022 onwards.

In a statement released by IGAD, the regional bloc emphasized the growing importance of ethical reporting on migration and displacement, noting that millions of people across the region continue to move in search of safety, work, education, trade opportunities, and better livelihoods.

IGAD Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu said the awards are aimed at recognising storytellers who highlight the human side of migration beyond statistics and headlines.

“Human mobility is not only a story of movement. It is a story of dignity, protection, resilience, and shared responsibility,” said Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu. “Through the IGAD Media Awards 2026, we are recognising the journalists and media voices who help the region see beyond numbers and tell the human stories that can inspire informed action and regional solutions.”

The awards will recognise excellence in several categories, including migration reporting, labour mobility and decent work, climate and conflict-induced displacement, migration photojournalism, digital storytelling, indigenous language reporting, and emerging journalism talent.

IGAD further stated that the awards are designed to encourage reporting that protects the dignity of migrants and displaced populations while countering misinformation, xenophobia, and sensationalism surrounding migration narratives.

According to the organisation, the 2026 edition will culminate in Kampala, Uganda, during a regional Knowledge ShareFair that will bring together journalists, policymakers, researchers, humanitarian actors, and development partners to discuss migration governance and ethical storytelling.

The IGAD Media Awards have become one of the region’s flagship platforms celebrating impactful journalism and storytelling that contribute to regional peace, cooperation, and integration across member states including Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Eritrea, and Djibouti.

The 2026 Rhino Charge Challenge, set for Saturday, 30th May in Samburu, has received a major boost of KES 114 million from the M-PESA Foundation and Safaricom PLC.

Out of the total funds, the M-PESA Foundation, the social impact arm of Safaricom, has committed KES 94 million to support Rhino Ark activities. This includes the fencing and protection of the Mount Elgon Forest (Suam Block), as well as the restoration of the Mau Forest Complex across Narok, Kericho, and Bomet counties.

The support will also extend to the Mount Kenya Forest Rehabilitation and Protection Project in Tharaka Nithi County, further demonstrating the M-PESA Foundation’s commitment to conserving Kenya’s key ecosystems and water towers.

On the other hand, Safaricom PLC’s contribution of KES 20 million will go towards supporting three entry cars and providing connectivity during the event. Of this amount, KES 17 million will support Car No. 44 led by Adil Khawaja, the EV Explorers team led by Richard

Kiplagat, and the all-ladies team, Zambarau Heels on the Wheel led by Agnes Mwangi.

The remaining KES 3 million will cater for network connectivity during the event.

Speaking during the cheque handover ceremony held at Safaricom Headquarters in Nairobi,Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa said: "This year, we are proud to commit KES 114 million through the M-PESA Foundation and Safaricom. As a company, sustainability remains central to how we create long-term value for our customers, communities, and the environment. Our support for the Rhino Charge reflects our commitment to practical conservation efforts that protect Kenya’s natural

heritage while driving innovation and resilience.”

The connectivity support will include the deployment of 5G aimed at enhancing both participant and spectator experiences. This will enable seamless communication and engagement while demonstrating how technology can transform events even in the most remote and rugged terrains.

Under the team support allocation, Car No. 44 will receive KES 15 million, while the EV Explorers and Zambarau Heels on the Wheel teams will each receive KES 1 million to support their participation in the challenge.

This year’s edition, which also marks the 37th Rhino Charge challenge, is expected to attract55 entries, including the 2025 overall winners, Team Huzi (Car No. 33) and Team Zambarau, the all-ladies team, among others.

 "As Team Zambarau, we are grateful for Safaricom’s support. This is a huge boost for us as an all-ladies team, and it has always been our wish to have them as our sponsors in this noble cause. Their commitment strengthens our resolve, providing us with the resources and

confidence to compete at our best. This support not only empowers our team but also reinforces our shared mission of advancing conservation and protecting Kenya’s natural heritage through the Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust,” said Elizabeth Wanjiku, Team member, Zambarau Heels on the Wheel.

Last year’s event, held in Saimo Soi, Baringo County, raised a total of KES 269.5 million in support of the conservation of Kenya’s water towers. Adil Khawaja emerged as the top fundraiser for the third consecutive year, raising KES 139.8 million, followed by Car No. 23 led by Peter Kinyua, which raised KES 13.5 million, and Car No. 63 led by Tim Carstens, which raised KES 8.6 million.

“As a team, we are truly grateful for Safaricom’s continued support for this event. This is the second year in a row they are backing us, and we deeply appreciate it. As the only EV team in the competition, we are highly motivated not only to complete the challenge but also to

emerge among the best, building on lessons from last year’s mechanical challenges as we champion the future of electric mobility and environmental conservation,” said Richard Kiplagat, Team Lead, EV Explorers. Safaricom has supported the Rhino Charge for over a decade, helping raise more than KES 2.6 billion for conservation. The funds have supported electric fencing in areas such as Mt. Kenya, the Aberdares, and Kakamega Forest, as well as the protection of water towers and

natural habitats across Kenya.

To date, the Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust has built over 650 km of electric fencing, and through these fencing programmes, more than 80,000 families are being protected from the impacts of human-wildlife conflict.

“The impact of this initiative has been significant for both conservancies and communities at large. This year’s preparations for the Rhino Charge Challenge are in full swing, and we

expect a total of 65 entries to take part in the challenge and fundraising effort in support of this noble cause of environmental conservation and the protection of Kenya’s vital water catchment towers. I would like to sincerely thank all our sponsors, including the M-PESA

Foundation and Safaricom, whose support has been instrumental to this journey for over a decade,” said Christian Lambrechts, Executive Director at Rhino Ark.

The Rhino Charge is an annual off-road 4×4 competition held in Kenya that raises funds to support the activities of the Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust, an NGO which works towards the conservation and protection of Kenya’s mountain range ecosystems, the so-called

“Water Towers.”

TV personality and Likoni MP aspirant Mwanahamisi Hamadi has expressed gratitude after receiving two awards within a month, describing the recognition as a motivation to continue serving and empowering the community.

In a heartfelt message shared with her supporters, Mwanahamisi thanked the organizers for recognizing her vision, leadership, and dedication to community empowerment, particularly in the area of women leadership and development.

“2 Awards in One Month, Alhamdulillah! My heart is filled with gratitude for this great honor and recognition,” she stated.

The aspiring legislator also extended appreciation to her fans, friends, family, and supporters for standing by her journey and continuously encouraging her efforts.

She noted that the recognition would inspire her to work even harder for the people, emphasizing her commitment to leadership and women empowerment initiatives in Likoni and beyond.

“This recognition only motivates me to work even harder for our people,” she added.

Mwanahamisi has recently been gaining attention for her growing influence in community mobilization, youth mentorship, and advocacy for women empowerment as she continues to position herself in the Likoni parliamentary race.

She concluded her message with appreciation to her supporters, saying: “Asanteni sana. The journey continues.

Car & General (Trading) Limited, in partnership with TVS Motor Company, today announced a landmark collaboration with Boda Girls Kenya, a women-led social enterprise advancing safe mobility and healthcare access for rural women.

The partnership was officially launched in Ahero, Kisumu County, during an event presided over by Mr. George Rubiri, General Manager of Car & General (Trading) Limited, alongside Nancy Akeyo, CEO of Boda Girls Kenya, and Pradeep Chaurasiya, Vice-President -International Business of TVS Motor Company, India.

As part of the partnership, Car & General is donating 32 TVS HLX 125 motorcycles to Boda Girls Kenya in the first phase of the initiative, which is going to be scaled up eventually.

The donation will be complemented by rider training, as well as provision of helmets and protective safety gear in compliance with National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) regulations.

Boda Girls Kenya is a pioneering NGO that trains and empowers female motorcycle riders to provide safe, harassment-free transport for women, while also advancing access to essential healthcare services.

Through its work, the organization offers free rides for rural women seeking maternal healthcare, family planning services, cervical cancer screening and gender-based violence support

Operating across Kisumu, Homa Bay, Siaya, and Kisumu counties, Boda Girls Kenya has built a network of over 160 women riders, creating both economic opportunities and a trusted mobility solution for women in underserved communities.

This initiative is particularly critical in addressing maternal and infant health challenges.

According to UNICEF estimates, over 5,000 maternal deaths and 35,000 infant deaths occur annually, with many rural women still giving birth at home due to limited access to health facilities.

Additionally, reports of harassment by male boda boda riders continue to deter women from seeking essential services.

Speaking at the event, George Rubiri emphasized the broader mission behind the partnership: “At Car & General, we are committed to making a positive impact in every community we serve. This partnership with Boda Girls Kenya is about more than mobility—it is about dignity, safety, and saving lives. By equipping women riders with reliable motorcycles and proper training, we are enabling access to critical healthcare services and empowering women economically.”

Nancy Akeyo, CEO of Boda Girls Kenya, welcomed the partnership as a significant milestone: “This support strengthens our mission to provide safe transport and healthcare access for women in rural Kenya. These motorcycles will directly expand our reach, helping more women access life-saving services while creating sustainable livelihoods for our riders.”

The TVS HLX 125, manufactured by TVS Motor Company, is recognized for its durability, fuel efficiency, and reliability on diverse terrains—making it ideally suited for rural transport and community service applications.

The motorcycles are built to withstand demanding conditions while delivering consistent performance, ensuring efficiency for riders and reliability for communities.

This partnership comes as Car & General celebrates 90 years of transforming lives and livelihoods across East Africa. From mobility and agriculture to power and construction, the company has remained committed to delivering solutions that improve everyday life.

Guided by its purpose of “making customers smile in every street, every town,” Car & General continues to invest in initiatives that drive social progress, empower communities, and create sustainable impact.

Car & General is a leading East African company specializing in automotive, power, and engineering solutions. With a strong heritage spanning nine decades, the company is a trusted distributor of globally recognized brands, including TVS Motor Company, and remains at the forefront of driving innovation, mobility, and socio-economic development in the region.