Members of Parliament have rejected a proposal from the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum to lift the moratorium on Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), citing concerns over inadequate safeguards to protect taxpayers from potential exploitation by private investors.

The Ministry had approached Parliament with a request to lift the moratorium specifically on coal-fired power plants, stressing the urgency of expanding power sources to meet Kenya’s increasing energy needs. 

According to the Ministry, anticipated growth in power consumption necessitates a diversification of sources, with coal plants positioned as a stable and cost-effective complement to existing hydroelectric power.

The MPs who chair key committees—including departmental, audit, appropriations, and select committees—voiced strong objections on the ministry wanting the moratorium on power purchase agreements lifted.. 

The legislators insisted that the Ministry must first implement stringent measures to prevent projects from disproportionately favoring investors at the expense of public interest. 

Lawmakers maintained that no relaxation of the moratorium should proceed until sufficient protections are established to ensure that any new agreements prioritize taxpayer welfare and national interests.

They spoke during the National Assembly leadership retreat with Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, Principal Secretary for the State Department of Energy, and Kenya Power Managing Director and CEO, Joseph Siror in Naivasha .

Led by Mwala Mp Vincent Musyoka, who chairs the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Energy, members expressed concern over the Ministry’s inadequate safeguards, saying there is currently no substantial basis for lifting the moratorium on Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).

Musyoka emphasized that Parliament, as the people’s representative, must be fully involved in PPA-related decisions. 

He cited the recent shifts in indicative tariffs as an example, noting that “the indicative tariffs gazetted in 2012 for wind power stood at 12 Ksh/kWh. However, shortly after, Lake Turkana Wind Power project secured a PPA at 16 Ksh/kWh over a 20-year term—higher than the forecasted tariffs intended to provide long-term savings.  Recently, tariffs for wind were gazetted at 5.8 Ksh/kWh, illustrating that earlier contracts could have been three times cheaper.”

He further criticized the handling of the Lake Turkana Wind Project, intended as one of Kenya’s Vision 2030 flagship projects, revealing that 20 motions were initially tabled to prevent power shortages through this initiative. 

Ironically, the director overseeing Vision 2030 projects later became Chairman of the Lake Turkana Wind Project.

Addressing Parliament, Hon. Musyoka confirmed that the Committee has completed its report. 

He stressed, “It was not without cause that Hon. Jane Kagiri tabled a motion leading to a moratorium on new PPAs. The question is whether those initial concerns have been addressed. The answer is no.”

The legislator proposed that if the moratorium is lifted, Independent Power Producers (IPPs) with existing wind and solar installations should be required to add backup energy storage to harness excess energy produced during the day for peak demand.

Endebess MP Hon. Robert Pukose, who chairs the departmental committee on Health, said before parliament could consider lifting the moratorium on Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), the ministry must disclosed the power purchasing agreements.

"We could want the ministry to first reveal how much they are paying for the power purchasing from various power producers, such as KENGEN and the rest. How much are you paying per unit? Are able you to give us, this that we can have an involved decision? Posed Dr. Pukose.

Emuhaya MP Omboko Milemba said the reason why the moratorium was put in place was because the Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) were so bad and they were making the Kenyans pay more. 

Milemba said that the ministry must clarify what strategies they have put in place to deter exploitation by PPAs, which he said, Kenya Power, does not want to deal with that. 

"How do you expect the parliament to go and remove this moratorium? Unless you deal with the power agreements with this, which have been looked at as things that were never exposed clear. They are very expensive, they are hidden, and they are not talked about. You must demystify the whole power,” he said.

However, Joseph Siror, the Kenya Power and Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer said all the new power budget agreements, which are even the ones that were signed the last are the cheapest, as per technology.

According to Siror, what drives the cost of the power is dependent on the technology that is used.

He clarified that the most expensive energy source currently in use is thermal power, with Kenya’s priciest power generated at the GT plant in Muhoroni, costing around 7 US cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). 

"Interestingly, the cheapest thermal power in Kenya, at 6.97 cents per kWh, isn’t Kenyan—it’s sourced from geothermal energy, specifically from Olkaria. In this cost breakdown, 4.9 cents go to the developer and 2 cents cover operational expenses. Other geothermal projects in Menengai are also priced similarly at around 7 cents per kWh, with 5 cents for the developer and 2 cents for operations," Dr. Siror explained.

He highlighted that price disparities across technologies partly reflect changes in technology costs over time. For instance, solar plant construction costs from a decade ago are significantly higher than today's due to reduced equipment and installation expenses.

To address these variations, the Director General has provided updated cost guidelines per technology—whether geothermal, hydro, or solar—to ensure standardized pricing moving forward. 

"Once the moratorium is lifted, any new agreements will adhere to these guidelines, ensuring that costs are controlled and aligned with current technology advancements,” the MD affirmed.

Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Daniel Kiptoo Bargoria, announced that EPRA has gazetted indicative tariffs by technology for the second time. 

The first issuance of these tariffs occurred in December 2021, and they were updated most recently on April 17, 2024. 

These tariffs cover a range of energy sources, including small hydro, wind, and renewables such as biomass, providing a structured guideline for cost expectations across various technologies.

“As regulators, we are not operating in a ‘black box’ when it comes to negotiations between utility companies and Independent Power Producers (IPPs),” Mr. Kiptoo Bargoria emphasized. 

“We are bound by law to ensure that the agreements comply fully with legal standards and that the resulting tariffs are fair and reasonable for all stakeholders.”

The CEO affirmed that investors have continued to register in the sector since consumers are not charged for costs that haven’t actually been incurred, and EPRA been aligning these costs accordingly. 

"As the regulator, we are responsible for thoroughly reviewing and analyzing financial budgets before advancing any Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) design. Equally important is the oversight from PPA signing through to project construction, ensuring that project costs align with actual commercial operations. 

If certain costs, initially estimated based on international benchmarks, are not incurred during construction, those expenses are removed from the final costs, as demonstrated here,” he explained.

Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Hon. Opiyo Wandayi assured MPs saying that the benefit the country is getting from the Energy Act 2019, is that EPRA as the regulator is able to publish indicative tariffs that will involve any negotiations between IPPs and Kenya Power.

However, Ruaraka MP Hon. Tom Kajwang’ said parliament aim seeks equitable distribution of energy resources nationwide and seek transparency in the terms of negotiations with Independent Power Producers (IPPs). 

According to Kajwang’ recent discussions, such as those involving Adani group with Ketraco, underscore the necessity of scrutinizing these agreements. 

“We are committed to avoiding any unfavorable deals that could arise from lifting the moratorium without proper oversight. Therefore, it's essential to thoroughly understand the engagement terms between regulatory agencies and IPPs to ensure fairness and national interest alignment,” emphasized Ruaraka Legislator.

Kenya's Afro-Latin dance scene is rapidly growing, showcasing a wealth of talented and diverse instructors, dancers and choreographers.

Building on this momentum, the inaugural Afro-Latin Tamasha music and dance event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 2nd November 2024 at Alliance Française in Nairobi.

Afro-Latin Tamasha extravaganza is expected to bring together Afro-Latin Kenyan musicians, choreographers, dance enthusiasts, revellers and DJs.

This event goes beyond just celebrating Afro-Latin culture, it will be a celebration of diversity, creativity and community. It's about uniting people, sharing experiences, and creating lasting memories, through music and dance. 

The Afro-Latin Tamasha event will showcase a range of individual or couple dance performances from Kenyan and international artists including Jos Lyon & Kerrtu (Bachata) from Estonia, Tanzania’s Michu & Dominika (Urban Kiz) and Diddy and the Stars (Afrobeat/Afro-Latin fusion) and from Kenya: Esther Reggaeton, Sanchez Salvador & Luycer (Cuban Son), The Gentlemen (Afrobeat/Gengetone fusion), Anno’s One Fine Day Art Centre (Ballet), Maestros Casineros (Rueda de Casino), JP (Shega/Reggaeton fusion), Dance With Me Malindi (Afrobeat/Bongo/Amapiano fusion) and Passion en Fuego Dance Studio (Afro-Latin fusion).

Robert Munene, the Executive Producer and Team Lead of the festival, is also a passionate dancer and enthusiast of Afro-Latin dance. He shares, “Afro Latin Tamasha will be a vibrant celebration of Afro-Latin culture, with electrifying live bands and DJs at its heart. This event promises to be a hub of joy and cultural connection through music and dance, offering dazzling performances from our dynamic dance community. Attendees can expect an immersive experience brimming with culture, movement, and pride for our city. Everyone is welcome!”

The event will kick off with DJs delivering an exhilarating blend of diverse genres from Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, Semba and Kompa to Afrobeats; paving the way for an evening of diverse festivities and genres. Dance troupes and duo performances will display the sophistication of Afro-Latin dance as live band performances of Afro Latin music will compel the audience to sway, dance and mingle.

Tanqueray, the esteemed gin brand has partnered with with Faraja Cancer Support Trust for the breast cancer awareness campaign.

At a recent high tea event hosted in collaboration with Pink Lady Apples and Estée Lauder at Fairmont The Norfolk Hotel, Brand Manager Scaver Saitaga addressed the attendees, emphasizing the importance of community support in the fight against cancer.

“We believe our brand goes beyond crafting exceptional gin; we are dedicated to making a positive impact in our communities,” Scaver stated. “This year’s theme, ‘No-one should face breast cancer alone,’ resonates deeply with us, inspiring a collective effort toward a world where cancer is no longer a threat.”

In alignment with this mission, Tanqueray is sponsoring mammograms for 20 women through Faraja Cancer Support Trust. This initiative underscores the critical importance of early detection in the battle against cancer, empowering women to take charge of their health.

Scaver highlighted the invaluable work done by Faraja Cancer Support, which offers emotional, psychological, and financial assistance to those affected by cancer. “Their efforts exemplify the compassion and hope that are essential in the journey of treatment and recovery,” he remarked.

As attendees enjoyed the delightful high tea, the gathering served as a reminder of the shared commitment to raise awareness and funds for a cause that impacts countless lives.

Tanqueray is proud to stand with Faraja Cancer Support Trust, reinforcing the belief that together, we can pave the way for a cancer-free future and make a lasting impact on our communities.

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.