TIMES

By Erick Wanjala  The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has today officially launched the Orthodox Tea Trading Window at the Mombasa Tea Auction, signifying the government’s commitment to enhancing the production and export of specialty teas. The 2,925 packages, which are equivalent to 91,798 kilos of Orthodox tea   is the first of many that will see tea farmers fetch higher prices for their produce as they seek to satisfy the growing global demand for specialty teas. Speaking during the event, Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said the launch of the specialty tea auction window was pivotal to raising Kenya’s profile in the global specialty markets, not only as a producer but also as an exporter. “Kenya has an excellent profile for being a lead producer of CTC teas. But it is high time we diversified our markets by increasing our capacity to produce orthodox teas in order to capture the ever-changing global market...

PhotoCaption Chairperson of Commission on Administrative Justice (Ombudsman office)Mr Charles Dulo . By Erick Wanjala  The Office of the Ombudsman has raised concern over increasing complaints from citizens regarding government ministries and state agencies failing to provide public information as required by law. According to the Commission on Administrative Justice (CAJ), more than 300 formal complaints have been lodged this year alone from individuals and organizations alleging that ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) have ignored or delayed requests for information. Ombudsman officials noted that this trend undermines the constitutional right of access to information, which is essential for transparency, accountability, and good governance. “Public offices have a duty to facilitate access to information. When they fail, they not only frustrate citizens but also weaken trust in government institutions,” the Ombudsman’s  Chairperson Mr Charles Dulo state...

Photo by Malik ;From Left Cricket Kenya Treasurer Mr Kennedy Obuya, Center is Mr Michael Riwa on the Right Cricket Kenya Chairperson Mr Manoj Patel By Erick Wanjala  As Kenya’s cricket is at a make-or-break moment 21 counties earlier  yesterday jointly issued a resolution to revive the sport, signaling a new dawn for one of Kenya’s most promising games. The promise of a new T20 league, fresh investment, and renewed ambitions offer hope.  The Once a continental powerhouse, having reached the semi-finals of the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup, Kenyan cricket has since suffered a steep decline, plagued by poor management, underfunding, and internal disputes. Despite the turmoil, stakeholders — including former players, sports officials, and private sponsors — are pushing for a revival that could breathe new life into the sport. The sound of applause at a stadium may well depend not merely on how many sixes are hit, but on whether Kenya Cricket  Chairperson M...

Photo courtesy of Standard newspaper from the  recent protest in Kisumu By Erick Wanjala  Clinical workers and nurses in Nairobi County have raised alarm over delayed salary payments, warning that they may be forced to down their tools if the issue is not addressed urgently. The health workers, who spoke on Thursday, said they have gone for more than 3 months without pay, a situation they described as “untenable” given the rising cost of living. “We cannot continue working under these conditions. We have families to feed, rent to pay, and basic needs to take care of. Yet the county has not shown commitment to resolve the matter,” said  one nurses  Their union representatives accused the county administration of neglecting frontline workers despite their critical role in delivering healthcare. They warned that if the arrears are not settled soon, a strike notice will be issued “Delays in paying health workers compromise service delivery in hospitals and he...

From  right is Mr Billy Otieno owner AnCoff receiving best brand award from Mr Ndung'u Nyoro ,holding the photo from the left is Grace Njaramba a dedicated team player at AnCoff's. By Erick Wanjala  AnCoff a new coffee brand launched by a young entrepreneur Mr Billy Otieno is rapidly rising to prominence, earning recognition alongside established giants in the sector. The brand, introduced less than two years ago, has become a household name among coffee lovers for its unique blends, rich aroma, and focus on quality sourcing from local farmers and samples from the international market. Industry experts say its meteoric growth is reshaping the market and offering healthy ground to the coffee trailblazers. Speaking during the East Africa Best Brand Award, Billy  the founder attributed it's success to a commitment on innovation and authenticity.  “Our mission is simple — to create coffee that tells the story of our farmers while giving customers an unmatched...

Hon Ndindi Nyoro Kiharu Member of Parliament  By Erick Wanjala  Kiharu Member of Parliament Hon Ndindi Nyoro  has called on Kenyan businesses to embrace progressive ownership models that allow employees to become part-owners of the enterprises they work for. Speaking during the East Africa best brand awards in Nairobi, Hon Nyoro said companies should begin adopting systems that give workers opportunities to buy shares, just as major firms in the United States such as Microsoft, Nvidia, and Crana have successfully implemented. According to the MP, such models not only motivate employees to be more productive but also ensure long-term sustainability by creating a sense of belonging and commitment. “When workers know they are also shareholders, they work harder, inn carrotsovate more, and protect the company’s future. We should learn from global giants like Microsoft and Nvidia where employees are part of the growth story,” the Legislator  stated. He ...

Kenya Wildlife service Director general Prof Erustus Kanga issuing a speech at Kwale County  By Erick Wanjala  The Chairman Lt. Gen. (Rtd) Walter Koipaton and Director General Prof. Erustus Kanga  of the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has sounded an alarm over the rapid destruction of a 25,000-hectare of Shimba Hills forest that is now on the brink of extinction, calling on local residents to take urgent action in conserving and protecting the endangered ecosystem. Speaking during a the event in Kwale County where the deputy governor H.E. Chirema Kombo was present ,  the director general warned that unchecked logging, charcoal burning, and encroachment for farming have pushed the once-thriving forest to the edge. He noted that the loss of the forest would not only threaten wildlife habitats but also expose surrounding communities to the effects of climate change, including droughts, water shortages, and soil erosion. “This forest is a national heritage. It ...

ICT CS William Kabogo, during the groundbreaking of the Nxtra Data Centre,beside is Airtel Kenya Managing Director Ashish Malhotra,  Communications Authority Assistant Director Compliance Peter Ikumilu and  Nxtra Africa CEO, Yashnath Issur.  By Erick Wanjala.                                                                          As Kenya campaign mode begin to escalate and many beg the question on elections credibility on voter register and voting submission through a reliable service provider, now Airtel Africa, through its data centre arm Nxtra by Airtel Africa, has broken ground for the construction of East Africa’s largest data centre at Tatu City, designed to meet the latest infrastructure requirement for cloud and AI services on matters storage and data processing. The N...

By Erick Wanjala  A nationwide opinion poll conducted by Leeway Africa Research Agency has shed light on the performance of county leaders, ranking Murang'a governor First with 72.8%, Kajiado Governor second best-performing governors with  70.6% Followed closely by Kisii Governor Simba Arati obtaining 68.% on matters Infrastructure and health insurance among other  According to the LARA survey which is reckoned internationally for it's outstanding authenticity ,conducted the survey between 15 - 26 August 2025 at local level using different methodologies where also senators and women representatives had a chance on the score card .On  women representatives taking the lead was Hon Betty Maina Murang'a Women Rep  with 68.9 % approval rating. She was lauded for championing youth and women empowerment programs as well as active engagement in national debates. She was closely followed by Hon Jane Kagiri Laikipia Women Rep  and Hon Ruth Odinga Kis...

MadamJenniffer Wairimu alias Waridi Kenya , Champions Youth-Led Climate Solutions Ahead of ACS2 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia By Erick Wanjala  As the Kenyan contingent led by His Excellency President William Ruto attend the second Africa Climate Summit that is set to happen today, president  of Kenya youth organisation and executive director of Waridi Foundation madam Jenniffer Wairimu has urged African leaders to prioritize and invest in youth-led climate solutions. Speaking ahead of the summit at Addis Ethiopia, Wairimu lauded H.E. President William Ruto remarks on reforms of international financial institutions to ensure fair and accessible climate financing for Africa. She emphasized: “Africa does not need charity. We need fairness, investment, and partnerships. Inclusion of children, youth, and women at the decision-making table is non-negotiable. Without our voices, we are not partners; we are the menu. For a just transition that reflects the Africa we envision, ...

Agriculture CS Mutahi Kagwe talking to tea investors at South Carolina USA. Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Sen. Mutahi Kagwe has called on countries and investors to package tea in Kenya for export, saying it is cheaper and guarantees higher value for both producers and buyers. Speaking at the North America Tea Conference in South Carolina, Kagwe announced that the government has removed taxes on packaging materials for agricultural products. The move, he said, allows Kenyan exporters to package tea at source according to international market specifications, delivering direct-to-shelf products with assured freshness, traceability, and better returns to farmers. “By packaging at origin, we eliminate unnecessary costs, improve competitiveness, and strengthen Kenya’s position in the global tea market,” Kagwe told delegates. Accompanied by Tea Board of Kenya CEO Willy Mutai, KTDA Chair Geoffrey Kirundi and his CEO Wilson Muthaura together with the Kenya...

Photo credits Genuine Photography By Erick Wanjala  Women in Technology and Innovation Africa (WITIA) Led by its Founder and CEO Eunice Pollman  in partnership with rotary club Karen will on 26th September host a fundraising dinner to mark the first smart digital library in Kajiado county and the entire region. The information was delivered  by one of its board members Dr. Bella Namango at a high level leaders breakfast on 3rd September in Serena Hotel, organized by The office of The President's Women and Children's Rights under the  leadership of Hon. Harriet Chiggai   The dinner event will be held in Nairobi and  it's expected to bring together leaders, stakeholders in education sector and community champions with an aim of consolidating resources for equipping Nkaimurunya Primary school with modern digital infrastructure, e-learning tools and innovation hubs for young learners. While talking to Bunge times Dr Bella stated that the smart librar...

Photo Caption Tourism Fund Chairperson Hon Samson K.Some By Erick Wanjala  The Tourism Fund’s (revolving fund )initiative has emerged as a beacon of hope for widows and orphans struggling to access higher education and entrepreneurial support, particularly those ineligible for loans from the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB). Speaking during a women  empowerment program organize by the executive Office of the president ,office of the presidential advisor on women rights  to the president,under the theme of championing women's empowerment  partnerships bold and inclusive future,theTourism Fund chairperson Hon Samson Some highlighted the life-changing impact of the revolving kitty, which was established to empower vulnerable groups who often fall through the cracks of mainstream financing. According to the Fund, the program has enabled dozens of widows to start small businesses ranging from cottage industries to agri-tourism ventures, creating a ripple ef...

Photo courtesy of FAWE;Catherine Asego Senior Advocacy & Partnership Officer FAWE addressing the media  With 18.8m girls missing  quality primary school education  in Africa ,the Feminist Network for Gender Transformative Education (FEMNET4GTE) has today convened its Africa Regional Action Workshop in Nairobi, Kenya ,to chart bold strategies for advancing gender equality in and through education across the continent.   The initiative, seeks to dismantle barriers that prevent women and girls from accessing quality education while pushing for policy reforms that embed gender equality in learning systems. The movement brings together diverse voices from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas, each contributing practical solutions tailored to their regional challenges. At the heart of the campaign is the demand for governments to prioritize investment in girls’ education, enact stronger measures against gender-based violence in schools, and ensure eq...

NEWSMAKERS 101 His Excellency Hon Rigathi Gachagua with Members of Diaspora community By Erick Wanjala Kenyans living and working abroad from Los Angeles, South California have earlier today had engagements with DCP party leader and former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua     that has seen immense pressure urging the political establishment to implement reforms that work for all citizens, regardless of location. Speaking during a well-attended diaspora forum, The community leaders praised the party leader who was accompanied by the wife, questioned on that matters of healthcare, security, meaningful economic growth, infrastructure development and equal education for the good of the nation. “The culture of hard work, care and responsibility they have can be doubled back home if systems were working,” Gachagua said. Among those who echoed and showed immense support to the detour of the party leader is a member of the diaspora against corruption whom has mobilized by makin...

The  Principal secretary in charge of sanitation and irrigation Ephantus Kimotho  The  Principal Secretary PS Kimotho is emerging as a formidable contender in the upcoming 2027 parliamentary race for Kajiado North  with political analysts and insiders tipping that his likely to unseat the current Member of Parliament MP Hon Ngogoyo, despite his popularity and strong grassroots support.  PS Kimotho,whose reputation for inclusivity,integrity and a track record of effective service delivery has earned him widespread recognition across the constituency, is reportedly gaining ground among voters disillusioned by the incumbent’s leadership. The sitting MP, who has held the seat for one  term, remains a household name and commands loyalty in several wards. However, growing public frustration over unmet development promises, allegations of tribalism and favoritism has created an opening for new leadership. In contrast, the PS has used his administrative...

NEWSMAKERS 101 KIRDI Chairperson Eng Peter Mositet on a tree planting exercise at an event By Erick Wanjala   Eng Mositet has been thrust into the national spotlight following his appointment as one of the chief architects behind a controversial economic empowerment initiative that has stirred heated debate across the country. Hon Mositet Korinko , an engineer ,a   development economist and 2027 Kajiado   county governor gubernatorial hopeful, has been named as a lead advisor in the newly constituted National Economic Empowerment Taskforce. The team is tasked with rolling out the “community first”— a multi-billion-shilling initiative meant to uplift small businesses, youth enterprises, and vulnerable households through direct cash injections and subsidized credit lines. Former senator’s involvement into the project has drawn mixed reactions from political leaders, civil society groups, and economic analysts. Supporters argue that his deep understanding of community-...

NEWSMAKERS 101 Photo Caption:Nominated Senator Hon Miraj Abdillah during committee meeting at Bunge towers By Erick Wanjala Nominated senator Hon Miraj Abdillah     has urged the national government to swiftly facilitate the availability of lenacapavir which is branded as Yeztugo a new drug administered through injection for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (Prep), according to research is approved by FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION (FDA).   Speaking during a labour, social welfare senate committee at Bunge Towers, senator Miraj emphasized that Yeztugo which is administered only twice a year could improve adherence and curb new HIV infections, particularly among hard-to-reach populations, adolescents and those who are victims of Rape. “Yeztugo is revolutionary—not only because it protects virtually 100% against HIV but because its dosing schedule fits the realities of many Kenyans, the earlier the better since if have interacted with many who are on the verge of giving...

Photo caption: Nominated senator Gloria Orwoba during a Press Briefing By Erick Wanjala Nominated senator Gloria Orwoba has come forward alluding to death threats and intimidation on her life and together with her staff following recent allegations of sexual harassment against a senior clerk in the senate. Speaking during a press briefing at Nairobi Area, the senator now states that her life is in danger and has for has been receiving numerous anonymous calls and messages warning her to drop the matter or face “personal or political consequences”. “I refuse to be silenced because what I experienced is not just a violation of my personal space and dignity, but also a reflection of a deeper rot that must be confronted within our institutions and today I represent many parliamentary staff, women parliamentarians and not forgetting the women senators who have chosen to be behind the curtains.” Stated Nominated Senator Orwoba. Hon Orwoba alleges that Jeremiah Nyegenye clerk to the s...

          Photo courtesy of Library : Jubilee Party leader Hon Manje speaking at Party Headquarters during certificate issuance 2021 By Erick Wanjala Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Hon. Joseph Manje has firmly rejected a call for national dialogue initiated by Prime Minister HE Raila Odinga, this comes in a dramatic twist that threatens to derail efforts at national reconciliation, some critics citing insincerity, political manipulation, and lack of clear agenda. Speaking at Naivasha over the Weekend Hon Manje stated the former Prime Minister of using the dialogue proposal as a public relations gimmick to silence critics and pacify growing dissent from opposition ranks.   “The so-called national dialogue is not rooted in genuine intentions to address the real issues affecting Kenyans. It is a smokescreen designed to buy time and shift focus from the suffering of ordinary citizens,” declared Hon Manje. The Prime Minister, in a televised address last ...

NEWSMAKERS 101             photo courtesy of library: PS Judith Pareno during a political rally in Kajiado Town By Erick Wanjala   In a bold political move that has sent ripples across Kajiado county’s political landscape, Hon Judith Pareno a top-ranking Principal Secretary in the current regime has officially declared her intention to contest the Kajiado senatorial seat in the upcoming 2027 general elections, setting the stage for a fierce showdown against the incumbent governor, former governor Dr Nkedianye , who are   widely considered one of the region’s most powerful political figures.   Speaking during a high-profile stakeholder event earlier this week the weekend, PS Pareno who is known for her firm leadership and dedication to public service said her decision to join elective politics was driven by a deep desire to champion accountability, social justice, economic inclusion at the county level not forgetting her journey to tra...

                                            Photo of Fida chairperson (center) Christine Kungu  ,on  her Left is Ann Ireri  Executive Director at Fida Kenya and Anyango Janet together with Elizabeth Gichuhi both on the far left and right of the photo                                                                                                            By Erick Wanjala  Nairobi, Kenya – July 10, 2025 The Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA-Kenya) has raised an alarm over the rising number of killings and injuries witnessed during recent anti-government demonstrations, calling on state agencie...