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By Grace Mwende  Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to a sustainable and climate-resilient future as leaders convened for this year’s Climate Action Summit, a pivotal gathering aimed at bolstering environmental governance and accelerating the implementation of the Nairobi Declaration. Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Deborah Barasa, noted that the Summit comes at a crucial period when Kenya is strengthening its climate governance framework and pushing forward national ambitions aligned with global priorities. “This year’s Climate Action Summit comes at a defining moment as Kenya continues to strengthen her climate governance framework and advance the implementation of the Nairobi Declaration’s vision,” Barasa said. She added that the Summit presents a critical opportunity to align Kenya’s climate strategies with international commitments, reinforcing efforts to transition toward a sustainable and inclusive green economy. “This Summit prov...

Nairobi, October 22, 2025 — The Council of Governors (CoG) has unanimously voted to remove Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga from his position as Vice Chair, following his controversial remarks made in Kikuyu language allegedly celebrating the death of ODM leader Raila Odinga. In a special sitting convened at the Council’s headquarters, the governors resolved to pass a motion of no confidence in Kahiga, terming his comments as reckless, divisive, and unbecoming of a national leader. The meeting was attended in person by CoG Chairperson and Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdulahi, Tharaka Nithi Governor and Council Whip Muthomi Njuki, and Kericho Governor Dr. Eric Mutai, while other governors joined virtually. Governor Abdulahi confirmed the decision, emphasizing that the Council does not condone any form of hate speech or ethnic incitement. > “The Council of Governors wishes to distance itself from Governor Kahiga’s remarks. His statements do not in any way reflect the values, unity, a...

Mathira Member of Parliament Eric Wamumbi has sharply criticized Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga over comments he made following the death of opposition leader Raila Odinga, terming them “unfortunate, reckless, shallow, and irresponsible.” In a strongly worded statement shared on social media, Wamumbi distanced himself from the governor’s sentiments, saying they did not reflect the views of the Kikuyu community or the people of Nyeri County. “Governor Mutahi Kahiga, my Governor. The statement you have made today about the passing of Raila Odinga is very unfortunate, reckless, shallow and irresponsible,” Wamumbi wrote. “As a son from the Kikuyu community and Nyeri County, I de-associate myself from your school of thought. Raila did not rest so that the Kikuyu community can benefit. You can do better, shame!” Governor Kahiga’s controversial remarks, made earlier in the day, have drawn widespread backlash from both political leaders and Kenyans online, who accused him of politici...

Maraga Condemns Ruto’s Assent to “Unconstitutional” Bills, Says Laws Undermine Kenya’s Sovereignty Nairobi, October 21, 2025 — Former Chief Justice David Maraga has sharply criticized President William Ruto’s decision to sign into law eight controversial Bills, describing the move as a “mockery” of Kenya’s Constitution and a betrayal of the values championed by the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga. Addressing a press conference at PanAfric Hotel in Nairobi, Maraga—joined by civil society representatives and concerned citizens—expressed outrage that the laws were assented to even as the nation mourned the death of the opposition icon. “At exactly the same time that the nation was grappling with the news of Raila Odinga’s demise, President Ruto was in State House signing into law, not one but eight Bills, some of which are quite draconian. What a shame!” Maraga declared. Among the new laws signed include the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, the Privatisation A...

Nairobi, October 15, 2025 — ODM Nairobi Chairlady Rosemary Okuta has joined Kenyans and the global community in mourning the death of Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as a towering figure whose lifelong dedication to justice and democracy transformed Kenya’s political landscape. Okuta paid tribute to the late Odinga, calling him “a father of the nation and a relentless freedom fighter whose courage inspired generations.” She noted that Raila’s sacrifices and vision for a united Kenya will continue to guide the country’s pursuit of equality, democracy, and social justice. “Kenya has lost a true patriot. His leadership, humility, and unshakeable belief in the power of the people will forever remain engraved in our hearts,” she said in her message of condolence. Okuta urged Kenyans to honor Raila’s legacy by upholding peace, unity, and the democratic values he championed for decades. She also expressed her condolences to Mama Ida Odinga and the entire Odinga family, assuring...

Nairobi, October 15, 2025 — Human rights activist and photojournalist Boniface Mwangi has sent his condolences to the family of Azimio leader Raila Odinga following the passing of Raila’s father, Mzee Odinga. In a brief but powerful message shared on his social media platforms, Mwangi wrote, “My condolences to the Raila Odinga family. Mzee amepumzika. His watch is over. What gives me hope is that last year a generation that will liberate Kenya from the shackles of bad leadership and corruption was born. Viva the revolution, viva.” The activist’s statement not only expressed sympathy for the Odinga family but also carried a strong political undertone, reaffirming his long-standing call for systemic change and leadership renewal in Kenya. Mwangi, known for his outspoken advocacy against corruption and impunity, said the hope for Kenya lies in a new generation of leaders committed to justice and integrity. His message comes at a time when the country continues to grapple with ...

Hon. Lady Justice Helene Namisi, Judge of the High Court of Kenya, has called for stronger, society-wide collaboration to end child marriage and safeguard the rights and dignity of girls across the country. Speaking on behalf of the Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court of Kenya during the International Day of the Girl #EndChildMarriage Storytelling Forum, Justice Namisi emphasized that the fight against child marriage is not just a legal or developmental matter, but a profound issue of justice and human dignity. “The theme ‘Let Me Be a Child, Not a Wife’ captures the moral clarity of our shared mission — to safeguard every girl’s right to childhood, education, and freedom from exploitation,” she said. “Child marriage robs girls of their innocence, interrupts their education, jeopardizes their health, and traps them in cycles of poverty and dependence.” Justice Namisi commended Plan International Kenya for its steadfast advocacy in advancing gender eq...

Nairobi, October 11, 2025 — National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) Commissioner Michael Nzomo has called for stronger collaboration and continuous dialogue to empower girls and young women, particularly those from marginalized regions, as the world marked the International Day of the Girl. Speaking during a storytelling forum organized to celebrate the day, Nzomo emphasized the need for regular conversations that address the real challenges girls face in different parts of the country — from urban centers to remote areas like Mandera. > “We must have conversations at least twice a month, not just in privileged spaces like this room or on YouTube, but also in communities where girls face deeper struggles,” said Nzomo. “What happens to girls in Atlanta is very different from what happens to girls in Mandera or Turkana. We must bridge that gap.” He noted that while some youth have access to opportunities and platforms for growth, many others are left behind due to s...

Nairobi, October 12, 2025 — Pressure is mounting on long-serving Nairobi ODM Women’s League Chairlady Catherine Okoth to step down, as party members intensify calls for fresh leadership and generational change within the Orange Democratic Movement’s women structures. Okoth, who has led the women’s wing for nearly two decades, is facing a rising rebellion from within the party, with a section of women leaders accusing her of clinging to power and stifling new ideas. Her critics argue that her prolonged stay in office has led to stagnation in women’s programs and weakened grassroots mobilization efforts. “Catherine has done her part, but 20 years is too long. We need vibrant, visionary, and inclusive leadership that can energize ODM women ahead of the 2027 elections,” said Rosemary Okuta, the incoming ODM Nairobi Chairlady and one of the leading voices pushing for change. Supporters of the transition movement say they want to see the women’s league return to active grassroots...

Nairobi, October 11, 2025 — A political storm is brewing within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Nairobi branch after Rosemary Okuta, the incoming Nairobi Chairlady, openly challenged long-serving ODM Nairobi Chairlady Catherine Okoth to relinquish her seat after more than two decades in power. Speaking during a grassroots meeting, Okuta declared that it was time for generational change in the party’s city leadership, arguing that Catherine’s prolonged stay had stagnated progress and weakened youth confidence in ODM’s internal democracy. “Catherine has been Chairlady for over 20 years to a point where people no longer take her seriously,” Okuta said. “There is nothing more she can do — it’s time to give space for young and vibrant leadership.” Okuta, who has earned praise for her hands-on leadership in Kamukunji constituency, said she is ready to take ODM Nairobi to new heights, emphasizing inclusivity, youth empowerment, and grassroots mobilization. “I believe in ODM’s...

Incoming ODM Nairobi County Chairlady Rosemary Okuta has called on Nairobi residents to embrace tree planting as a key step toward building a healthier and more sustainable environment. Speaking during a community outreach activity, Okuta emphasized the importance of environmental conservation in improving the quality of life in the city. “Let’s plant more trees for the better of our growth,” she said, underscoring that tree planting not only combats climate change but also contributes to cleaner air and cooler neighborhoods. She noted that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leadership in Nairobi plans to support greening initiatives across all sub-counties as part of a broader environmental action plan. Okuta, who has been vocal on youth and women empowerment, said environmental conservation is also a form of community empowerment, as it encourages collective responsibility and sustainable livelihoods. Her remarks come as various organizations across the country step up ...

As the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) marks its 20th anniversary, incoming Nairobi Chairlady Rosemary Okuta has called for a renewed focus on youth and women inclusion in party leadership and decision-making. Speaking during the ODM@20 celebrations, Okuta said the milestone provides an opportunity for reflection, reform, and recommitment to the ideals of democracy, justice, and equality that have defined the party since its formation in 2005.  “ODM has been the face of Kenya’s democratic struggle for two decades. But for us to remain relevant for the next twenty years, we must open more doors for young people and women to lead from the front,” she stated. Okuta, who has been at the forefront of mobilizing women and youth across Nairobi’s informal settlements, emphasized that the party must adapt to modern political realities by embracing innovation and grassroots empowerment. She lauded ODM leader Raila Odinga for his consistency and resilience in championing democrat...

By Grace Mwende  NAIROBI, October 8, 2025 — Kenya’s Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry has announced a nationwide campaign to mark Mazingira Day 2025, urging citizens to return to their former primary schools to plant fruit trees and lead clean-up exercises under the theme “Citizen-Centric Tree Growing and Environmental Stewardship.” Speaking during a media breakfast in Nairobi, Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah M. Barasa said this year’s initiative, dubbed #TurudiPrimoTukadonateFruitTrees, is designed to connect environmental action with personal responsibility and community heritage. “We are inviting every Kenyan to go back to their former primary school to donate and plant a fruit tree, and to clean and green the school environment,” Dr. Barasa said. “Our schools are the foundation of our nation. By returning there, we not only plant trees but also nurture a sense of responsibility in the next generation.” The event, scheduled for October 10, will be l...

Nairobi, October 8, 2025 — ODM Nairobi Chairlady Rosemary Okuta has officially launched a voter mobilization initiative dubbed the “Virgin Voter Campaign”, targeting unregistered youths and women across Nairobi’s informal settlements, including Mathare, Kibera, and Dagoretti. Speaking during the launch, Okuta said the campaign aims to empower first-time voters—whom she referred to as “Virgin Votes Pioneers”—to actively participate in shaping Kenya’s democratic future. > “We want to ensure more people exercise democracy. Many of our young people and women have never voted, not because they don’t want to, but because access to identification and registration services has been a major challenge,” said Okuta. She revealed that the initiative had already registered a significant number of new voters, thanks to coordinated efforts under the leadership of ODM Executive Director Hon. Oduor Ongwen. > “We knocked on every door in Kenya to ensure people obtained their IDs and re...

VybCall marks a new milestone in mobile innovation and digital customer experience NAIROBI, Kenya – October 8, 2025 — Safaricom, in partnership with Huawei, has launched VybCall, Kenya’s first-ever Video Ring Back Tone (VRBT) service — a pioneering feature that transforms the way callers experience waiting time. The innovation builds on the legacy of the iconic Skiza service, launched nearly two decades ago, by introducing short-form video content that users can personalise to entertain their callers before a call is answered. With this development, Kenya becomes the first African country to roll out VRBT, cementing Safaricom’s position as a leader in mobile innovation and customer-centric digital solutions. “At Safaricom, we are constantly exploring new ways to give our customers choice and control through targeted experiences,” said James Maitai, Safaricom’s Chief Technology and Information Officer (CTIO). “The launch of Kenya’s first Video Ring Back Tone service is one w...

NAIROBI, Kenya – Incoming ODM Nairobi Chairlady Rosemary Okuta has called on women and young people across the country to come out in large numbers and register as voters ahead of the 2027 General Election. Speaking during a voter awareness drive, Okuta emphasized the importance of active civic participation, saying the youth and women form the majority of the population and must use their numerical strength to shape the future of the nation. “I urge all youths and women to take this opportunity seriously. Come out and register as voters so that you can exercise your democratic right in 2027,” she said. Okuta advised young people to register in areas where they are comfortable voting and where they will be present during the elections, to avoid challenges during the polling period. “Do not register in a place where you know you won’t be available in 2027. Register where you live or where you will be during that time, so that your vote counts,” she added. She further urged t...

NAIROBI, Kenya — Nairobi women leaders within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have rallied behind Rosemary Okuta, declaring her the right leader to restore transparency, unity, and inclusivity in the party’s Nairobi branch. In a meeting that brought together women delegates from all 17 constituencies in Nairobi, the leaders said they chose Okuta because of her visionary leadership, clean record, and unwavering commitment to empowering women and youth within the party.  “We believe Rosemary Okuta embodies the change ODM Nairobi has been waiting for,” said one of the delegates. “She listens, she unites, and she stands for fairness — values that have been missing for far too long.” Okuta, who has built her reputation as a grassroots mobilizer and reformist voice within ODM, pledged to bring fresh energy to the Nairobi branch if elected Chairlady. She said her leadership would prioritize rebuilding trust among members and ensuring that women and youth have meaningful r...

NAIROBI, Kenya – Incoming ODM Nairobi Chairlady Rosemary Okuta has taken a swipe at long-serving party official Catherine Okoth, accusing her of clinging to power for over two decades at the expense of the party’s growth and youth inclusion. Speaking during a grassroots engagement in Nairobi, Okuta said the time had come for the old guard to pave the way for fresh leadership, arguing that the voices of young people can no longer be ignored within ODM. “Catherine Okoth has held on to this seat for more than 20 years, and our youths are complaining. The older generation should create space for us to lead. I only need five years as ODM Nairobi Chairlady to completely transform Nairobi County,” Okuta said. She further emphasized that ODM’s vibrancy lies in its ability to embrace generational change, insisting that the party risks losing touch with the electorate if it continues recycling leaders. Okuta’s bold declaration comes amid intensifying grassroots mobilization ahead of ...

The Nairobi branch of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Women’s League has formally endorsed Rosemary Okuta as their choice for Chairlady, boosting her bid to lead the party’s grassroots structures in the capital. In a meeting attended by women leaders and delegates from across Nairobi’s constituencies, the league praised Okuta’s dedication to the party and her commitment to advancing women’s participation in politics. Speaking after the endorsement, Okuta welcomed the support, saying it was a sign of unity and renewal within ODM. “I am deeply humbled by this endorsement. Together, we shall ensure women have a stronger voice in ODM and in shaping Nairobi’s political future,” she said. The ODM Women’s League emphasized that their endorsement was based on Okuta’s track record in mobilizing women and youth, as well as her vision for transparent and inclusive leadership. The endorsement comes ahead of ODM’s planned grassroots elections, where party members are expect...

NAIROBI, Kenya – Incoming ODM Nairobi Chairlady Rosemary Okuta has pledged to deliver transformative leadership in the capital, vowing to place the interests of ordinary citizens at the heart of her agenda. Okuta said her leadership will focus on strengthening grassroots democracy within ODM, promoting women and youth representation, and ensuring fairness in party nominations ahead of the 2027 General Election. She emphasized that Nairobi deserves leaders who are accountable and people-centered, adding that under her stewardship ODM will reclaim its vibrancy in the city. “Our mission is to transform Nairobi, empower communities, and ensure every resident feels the impact of ODM leadership in their daily lives,” Okuta said. She also promised to champion initiatives that address unemployment, urban poverty, and social inclusion while working closely with party members to restore trust and unity within the ODM family. Her statement comes at a time when Nairobi politics is heat...

Kenya will commemorate this year’s Mazingira Day on October 10 with an ambitious environmental campaign targeting the planting of more than 71 million fruit trees in schools and a nationwide clean-up exercise. The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry announced that the 2025 celebration will run under the theme “Citizen-Centric Tree Growing and Environmental Stewardship”. The initiative aims to blend environmental restoration with nutrition, education, and livelihoods. According to the Forestry Principal Secretary, fruit trees were chosen for their multiple benefits, ranging from improved nutrition for school children to biodiversity enhancement and income generation. “Fruit trees nourish children with vitamins, create income opportunities, enhance biodiversity, and instill a sense of environmental responsibility among young learners,” he said, calling on Kenyans to return to their primary schools under the rallying slogan #TurudiPrimoTukadonateFruitTreesNaK...

 Tensions are rising within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) women’s league as calls for leadership change intensify. Members have challenged incumbent leader Catherine Okoth to face the ballot, questioning her reluctance to allow elections despite serving in the position for two decades. In a strongly worded statement, the women accused Okoth of using paid press conferences to claim that members are satisfied with her leadership and that no elections are necessary. “If Catherine Okoth is sure that in the last 20 years she has truly worked and served the women of ODM, why is she afraid of elections?” the statement read. “She should let due diligence through universal suffrage decide.” Incoming Nairobi ODM Chairlady hopeful Rosemary Okuta has been at the forefront of this push, rallying women across the party to reject what she calls “selfish leadership” and demand fresh, inclusive representation. “ODM women deserve change. We are tired of leaders who believe that wi...