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Nairobi, Kenya – A wind of change is blowing within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) women’s league in Nairobi as Rosemary Okuta emerges as the front-runner to replace long-serving chairlady Catherine Okoth. For nearly two decades, Catherine Okoth has held the county women’s chair, a tenure critics say has been marked by stagnation and unresponsiveness to grassroots concerns. Now, women leaders and delegates across Nairobi are calling for fresh leadership, rallying behind Okuta as the face of renewal. Support for Okuta has been most visible in Ruaraka, where women openly endorsed her as their preferred candidate. “We believe it is time for change. Rosemary represents the energy and inclusivity that Nairobi women deserve,” one grassroots organizer said. Her candidacy is being framed as a direct response to frustrations among ODM women who feel sidelined and ignored under the current leadership. Party insiders say the growing momentum behind Okuta reflects bro...

A fresh storm is brewing in the Nairobi branch of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), as women leaders accuse the current Nairobi Chairlady, Catherine Okoth, of running the party like a personal enterprise. The women, in a hard-hitting statement, claimed Catherine thrives on selfish leadership that revolves around her alone, unlike other ODM structures where leadership is clearly defined across various leagues and offices. The team said all the other leaders of the party have a structure and team that they work with but Catherine has choosen to be selfish and only work with her family members. "But in Nairobi, who is the vice of Catherine? Who are her officials, if not her own children whom she has been placing in her office? This is unacceptable. ODM is a party of structures, not a family business.” The women further alleged that Catherine’s family members not only occupy key positions but also engage in abusive behavior towards anyone who questions her leadership. ...

Nairobi women leaders within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have urged the party’s national chairperson, H.E. Gladys Wanga, to steer clear of the upcoming Nairobi grassroots elections, warning against what they term as political interference. In a strongly worded statement, the women accused Wanga—who they claim is poised as the sister of Nairobi ODM Chairlady Catherine Okoth—of meddling in county affairs. They cautioned that such involvement amounts to nepotism and undermines the democratic process within the party. “Gladys Wanga is the ODM chairperson for all members across the country. She should not interfere in Nairobi elections. Nepotism is a vice, and what we demand as Nairobi women is space for free and fair elections,” the statement read. The women further called out Kisumu West MP Rosa Buyu, warning her too against taking sides in Nairobi’s internal political contests. Their demand comes at a time when pressure is mounting for ODM to conduct grassroots polls...

Tension is rising within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) in Nairobi as members demand the immediate announcement of grassroots election dates, citing poor leadership and neglect at the county level. Women leaders in particular have voiced frustration with Nairobi ODM Chairlady Catherine Okoth, accusing her of sidelining them and failing to address their concerns. Some members claim she makes empty promises and ignores the voices of ordinary party supporters. “We feel abandoned and voiceless under the current leadership. Nairobi women deserve respect and real representation,” said one ODM member from Ruaraka. The growing discontent has sparked fresh calls for the elections to be conducted without delay. Many women are rallying behind Rosemary Okuta, saying she represents the kind of leadership Nairobi ODM needs — inclusive, accessible, and people-centered. According to grassroots organizers, holding timely elections is the only way to restore confidence amon...

Nairobi, Kenya – A section of ODM women from Ruaraka have openly demanded change in the party’s leadership in Nairobi, declaring their support for Rosemary Okuta as the new women’s chairlady. Speaking during a meeting in Ruaraka, the women accused the current ODM Nairobi women leadership of neglecting grassroots members and failing to address their concerns. They said they feel sidelined in decision-making and want fresh leadership that can unite and represent them effectively. “We have been ignored for too long. It is time for a leader who listens and stands with us. That is why we are supporting Rosemary Okuta,” one of the women said during the gathering. The women praised Okuta for her accessibility, commitment to empowering women, and her active engagement in community matters. They argued that she represents the change ODM women in Nairobi desperately need as the party reorganizes ahead of future political contests. Their declaration adds to the growing calls within OD...

Africa’s capacity to manage emerging and complex risks is set to receive a major boost following the launch of the Risk Management Hub in Africa, a new subsidiary of the Institute of Risk Management (IRM). The hub will deliver professional training, recognised risk management qualifications, and advisory services across the continent. It will also spearhead partnerships with governments, NGOs, and academia to embed robust governance practices in fast-growing economies. “With Africa projected to be home to some of the fastest-growing economies and youngest populations globally, this hub is strategically placed to help institutions anticipate risks and seize opportunities,” said Joyce Ndirangu, who will lead the hub from Nairobi. Chairperson Dorothy Maseke noted that the subsidiary is the result of years of collaboration among regional experts: “This milestone reflects our commitment to advancing risk management standards in Africa.”

The National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK) has entered into grant agreements worth Ksh 21,497,389 with eight institutions catering to learners with disabilities, in a move set to enhance inclusive education and improve learning conditions across the country. The contracts, signed during an official ceremony at New Rehema House in Westlands, Nairobi, will fund construction and upgrading of key infrastructure, including classrooms, dormitories, libraries, vocational workshops, and other essential facilities. Speaking at the event, Dr. Kristina Pratt, CBS, Chairperson of the NFDK Board of Trustees, reaffirmed the Fund’s mission to empower persons with disabilities and praised the programme’s growing impact. “So far, we have implemented 447 projects in 223 institutions nationwide. This demonstrates not only the success of our initiatives but also the strength of the partnerships we continue to build,” she said, acknowledging the support of partners such as Safaricom Fou...

Dissatisfaction is growing among ODM women leaders in Nairobi, with several accusing County Women’s League Chairlady Catherine Okoth of neglecting their concerns and failing to fulfill promises made to them. According to the women, Catherine has increasingly distanced herself from the grassroots, often ignoring their needs and leaving them without proper guidance or support.  They claim that her leadership style has become dismissive, creating frustration and discontent within the party’s women’s wing. A member from Roysambu narrated how they were recently invited for a meeting by the chairlady, only for her to leave them under the care of someone else who offered no concrete solutions. “I felt abandoned because the person left in charge did not address our issues at all,” she said. The women are now calling for a leadership shake-up, insisting that fresh ideas and committed leadership are urgently needed to revive the Nairobi ODM Women’s League.  They argue that t...

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has vowed to take firm measures to curb rising cases of mugging and vandalism across the city. On Monday, the Governor led a high-profile tour of several crime hotspots in the central business district (CBD) and nearby areas following growing public concerns over escalating insecurity. Accompanied by senior county officials and security agencies, Sakaja assured residents and business owners that his administration is committed to restoring safety and order. He stressed that no part of the city would be surrendered to criminal elements. “We cannot allow muggers and vandals to tarnish the reputation of our city. Security is a top priority, and we are working closely with law enforcement to ensure offenders are apprehended and brought to justice,” said Governor Sakaja. Beyond the immediate crackdown, the Governor announced plans to engage key stakeholders—including business owners, matatu operators, and community leaders—in developing long-term ...

Tensions are rising within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) after a section of the party’s youth leaders threatened to abandon party leader Raila Odinga if Nairobi County ODM Chairlady Catherine Okoth does not resign. The youths accused Okoth of clinging to the position for nearly two decades, claiming that her leadership has failed to foster meaningful development or empower the party’s grassroots structures in the city. They argued that her prolonged stay has hindered the growth of young leaders and stifled fresh ideas within the ODM Nairobi Women’s League. According to the disgruntled members, Okoth has been seen aligning with opposition forces and attending high-profile meetings that, they allege, undermine ODM’s vision for Nairobi. They insisted that her continued presence in office is a betrayal to the party’s loyal supporters. The group has given the ODM leadership an ultimatum to address the leadership crisis, warning that failure to act will see them mobilize s...

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – September 7, 2025 – Ahead of the Second Africa Climate Summit (ACS2) (September 8–10, 2025),  Jenniffer Wairimu, President of the Kenya Youth Organization and Executive Director of Waridi Foundation, is calling on African leaders to prioritize and invest in youth-led climate solutions. Speaking ahead of the summit, Wairimu applauded H.E. President William Ruto for urging 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, inclusion is key.” Waridi urged African heads of state to fund innovative, youth-led eco-projects and to maintain investment beyond ACS2, ensuring solutions reach local and gras...

ODM Nairobi County Chairlady Catherine Okoth is facing mounting criticism over her 20-year leadership, with party members accusing her of stagnating the branch’s growth and failing to deliver meaningful development. Okoth, who also serves as a nominated Member of Nairobi County Assembly, has been accused of using her dual positions to consolidate personal influence rather than prioritize the needs of ODM supporters in Nairobi. Critics say her prolonged stay in office has blocked opportunities for new strategies and younger leaders to emerge. “There has been no meaningful development under her leadership,”  a youth leader from Embakasi. “The party in Nairobi needs fresh ideas, not recycled leadership focused on survival.” Allegations of political opportunism have also surfaced, with claims that Okoth has been meeting and aligning herself with opposition figures. Party insiders argue that this undermines ODM’s unity and credibility in the capital. As demands for leadershi...

The Nairobi County ODM Women’s League has been thrown into turmoil after its Chairlady, Catherine Okoth, was accused of betraying the women she represents and siding with political opponents.  Party insiders claim Okoth, who has held the position for two decades and also serves as a nominated ODM MCA, has been attending meetings at State House and allegedly collaborating with forces outside the party’s agenda. According to the women leaders, her actions have weakened the league’s influence in Nairobi and compromised its role in championing grassroots women’s interests. They allege that she has failed to advocate for their needs and has instead chosen to align herself with rival political forces for personal benefit. The disgruntled members are demanding her immediate removal and the organization of free and fair grassroots elections to restore confidence and unity among ODM women in the county. Catherine Okoth has not responded to these allegations.

A major leadership battle is brewing within Nairobi County ODM Women’s League as members demand the removal of Chairlady Catherine Okoth, accusing her of clinging to power for 20 years without tangible achievements.  Okoth, who also serves as a nominated ODM MCA in the Nairobi County Assembly, is alleged to have retained her position through direct nominations, locking out other aspirants. The women claim that under her leadership, the league has stagnated, with unfulfilled promises and a lack of meaningful empowerment for grassroots members. They further accuse her of using threats and intimidation against those who challenge her authority. “It is time for a new beginning. We want free and fair elections where every woman can compete fairly,” said one member, speaking on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals. The group vowed to push for sweeping reforms, saying only transparent elections can restore confidence and unity among ODM women in Nairobi.

Members of the Nairobi County ODM Women’s League have endorsed Madam Rosemary Okuta as their choice for the top leadership position, calling for fresh elections to usher in change. The group criticized the outgoing chairlady for holding the position for close to two decades, arguing that her leadership has become stagnant and out of touch with the evolving needs of women in Nairobi. “Political seats are not anyone’s personal property to occupy for life. This is the time for fresh ideas, new strategies, and innovative leadership. Madam Rosemary Okuta is the leader to take us forward,” the statement read. They described Okuta as a transformative leader who puts people first and is capable of steering the women’s league toward growth, inclusivity, and empowerment. The members urged ODM to prioritize leadership renewal to strengthen the party’s women’s wing ahead of future political engagements.

Mombasa Hosts Landmark Conference on Climate-Smart Agriculture and Sustainable Trade hmm A high-level conference in Mombasa has placed climate-smart agriculture (CSA) and sustainable trade at the forefront of Africa’s economic transformation agenda. The event brought together policymakers, farmers, trade experts, and environmental stakeholders to explore practical strategies for building a resilient and prosperous future. Dr. Argwals, a leading voice in sustainable development and agricultural transformation, urged African nations to align agricultural practices with the realities of climate change. “We are facing a dual crisis — climate change and food insecurity,” he said. “But within this challenge lies an opportunity. Climate-smart agriculture not only increases productivity but also protects our environment and creates new trade opportunities for farmers.” The conference highlighted successful initiatives from East Africa, including climate-resilient crops, regenerativ...

A section of Senators and Nairobi Members of Parliament (MPs) has called on Governor Johnson Sakaja to use the ongoing political truce with Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) to implement lasting solutions for the city’s persistent challenges. Speaking during a joint press briefing in Nairobi, the leaders welcomed the suspension of an impeachment motion against the governor, terming it a victory for dialogue and stability. “This is a window he must not let close because if he fails, what happens in Nairobi will affect all of us,” one senator warned, adding that political instability in City Hall could cripple service delivery across the county. Among the lawmakers present were Mathare MP Anthony Oluoch, Senator Karen Nyamu, Embakasi West MP George Theuri Mwenje, and Senator Tabitha Mutinda. They urged Sakaja to collaborate with MCAs and prioritize key issues including garbage collection, sewage management, and services in informal settlements, while acknowledging progres...

Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo has defended her decision to accept an appointment as the Vice Chairperson of a panel of experts tasked with overseeing compensation for victims of protests and riots. Odhiambo was appointed to the panel by President William Ruto through a gazette notice dated August 26, 2025. The appointment stirred debate, with many Kenyans expressing fears that her acceptance could compromise her stance on justice, particularly in light of alleged human rights violations during past protests. Speaking during the panel’s swearing-in on Thursday, Odhiambo dismissed claims that she had betrayed the public’s trust. “As I take up this responsibility, let it be known that I have in no way betrayed your trust,” she said. “Access to criminal justice remains critical to me in our quest to promote and protect the rule of law as an essential element in the enjoyment of fundamental human rights and freedoms.” She assured victims and their families ...

By Bruno Aero The Kenya Institute of Supplies Management (KISM) has expressed full support for the government’s rollout of the Electronic Government Procurement (E-GP) System, describing it as a transformative step toward modernizing public procurement, enhancing transparency, and improving efficiency. KISM, the statutory body mandated to regulate supplies practitioners in Kenya, views the E-GP system as critical to creating a transparent, accountable, and traceable procurement process.  According to the KISM Chairman Mr. John Karani and KISM CEO Mr. Kenneth Matiba, the move will not only close loopholes and curb external interference but also strengthen public confidence in the management of public resources. With over 28,000 registered supply chain professionals, KISM emphasized that its members form the backbone of this transition. These professionals have demonstrated strong commitment to adopting the new system, which is expected to eliminate inefficiencies associa...

The Athi Water Works Development Agency (AWWDA) has unveiled its ambitious 2024–2029 Strategic Plan, setting in motion flagship water and sanitation projects designed to significantly improve access to clean water across Nairobi, Kiambu, Murang’a, and neighbouring regions. The five-year plan, valued at KES 206 billion, will deliver a combined daily storage capacity of 461,000 cubic meters of water, expand water treatment capacity to 318,500 cubic meters per day, and construct more than 443 kilometres of transmission pipelines and 880 kilometres of sewer networks. Key projects under the plan include the Thiririka Dam Water Supply Project, Maragua 4 Dam, Northern Collector Tunnel II, and the Nairobi Satellite Towns Water and Sanitation Improvement Project (NATWASIP). These initiatives aim to bridge the widening gap between water supply and demand, benefiting millions of Kenyans in both urban and peri-urban areas. Speaking during the launch in Nairobi, Cabinet Secretary for Wa...