kenyapulse

[kenyapulse]

West Pokot County Embraces Digital Economy with New Centre of Excellence

West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin has expressed strong support for the establishment of a modern Digital Centre of Excellence in the county, calling it a crucial step toward addressing youth unemployment. During a recent site visit with the Konza Technopolis Chief Manager of Construction, Antony Sang, Kachapin highlighted the importance of the project for economic empowerment.

While an earlier proposed site at Bendera in Siyoi ward faced logistical challenges, the team has identified an alternative location in the Tartar area, where initial construction steps have been taken. The Governor emphasized that despite setbacks, the county is committed to facilitating the project’s completion, recognizing the significant potential of digital transformation.

The Digital Centre is part of a broader national initiative to establish 1,450 digital units across Kenya. The first phase, which includes 50 centers, must be completed by the end of the financial year, with West Pokot receiving one of the centers.

Governor Kachapin also praised the success of open Wi-Fi hotspots already in operation across the county, allowing residents to access the internet and fostering digital inclusion. The project is seen as a key pillar of Kenya’s Digital Economy Blueprint, which aims to improve sectors such as education, healthcare, and agriculture through enhanced digital connectivity.

Engineer Antony Sang reiterated the project’s alignment with the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), stressing the need for local community support and cooperation in its implementation. He also acknowledged the county’s unique reception, noting that West Pokot is the only one where the Governor had personally welcomed the project team.

The contractor, Timothy Makumi, emphasized the use of local manpower and resources, highlighting the project’s potential to drive significant growth in West Pokot through the digital economy.

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CFAO Mobility Unveils Sponsorship for 2025 World Rally Championship

CFAO Mobility Kenya has confirmed its continued sponsorship of the 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally, pledging KSh 33 million to help organize the event. This year’s rally marks the centenary of Toyota Gazoo Racing’s involvement in the event.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Cabinet Secretary, Salim Mvurya, emphasized that this will be CFAO's fifth consecutive year supporting the WRC Safari Rally in Kenya.

As part of the sponsorship, CFAO Mobility will provide a TTR Hilux pickup as the official "double zero" car, which opens the route. In a push for road safety, the event will introduce a school mural competition promoting safe driving practices, pedestrian safety, and responsible road use among the youth.

Additionally, CFAO Mobility launched the #HiluxUnleashYourShujaa campaign to highlight the Hilux’s reputation for durability and performance.

“The Hilux is a vehicle made for Kenya, tested and trusted to handle all transportation needs,” said Mvurya.

The sponsorship underscores CFAO’s ongoing commitment to growing motorsports in Kenya while strengthening its relationship with customers. Safari Rally Kenya’s CEO, Charles Gacheru, shared that for the first time, the WRC Safari Rally will be organized under KSh 1 billion, a significant drop from last year’s KSh 1.3 billion expenditure.

Gacheru also highlighted the importance of nurturing young motorsport talent, citing research that indicates the ideal age for beginning to explore sports disciplines is 14. In line with this, the Kenyan government has partnered with Safari Rally Kenya to expand its Junior Training Facility, aimed at equipping aspiring drivers with skills in safety, speed, and overall driving. This initiative prepares them for future careers in professional motorsports.

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Beatrice Chebet Targets Xiamen Diamond League for 2025 World Championship Ambitions

World 10,000m record holder Beatrice Chebet is set to kick off her 2025 track season at the Xiamen Diamond League on April 25, as she targets her first World Championships title later this year.

Chebet, who has already secured her spot in both the 5,000m and 10,000m events at the Tokyo 2025 World Championships, sees the Xiamen meet as a vital part of her preparations. This will be the first leg of the 14-stop Diamond League series, with the finals taking place in Zurich on August 27-28.

The 24-year-old star made history in 2024 by setting a world record in the 10,000m, with a time of 28:54.4, and also secured the 5,000m qualification with her 14:09.52 win at the Zurich Diamond League. Despite holding qualifications for both events, Chebet is still undecided whether she will pursue the double in Tokyo, with final decisions to be made after the national trials.

Chebet's main goal this season is to claim her first World Championships gold, having previously earned silver in 2022 and bronze in 2023 in the 5,000m.

While continuing her pursuit of world records, Chebet remains focused on maintaining a disciplined and hard-working approach to her training. Her 2024 season was a landmark year, including becoming the third woman in history to win both the 5,000m and 10,000m Olympic titles, as well as breaking the women's 5km world record on New Year's Eve with a 13:54 finish. She has now begun 2025 in strong form with a victory at the Elgoibar Cross Country in Spain.

Chebet's sights are now set on the Xiamen Diamond League and her ongoing journey to claim a World Championship title later this year.

[kenyapulse]

City Thunder Extend Winning Streak with Dominant Victories Over Varsity Teams

Nairobi City Thunder maintained their undefeated record in the Kenya National Men’s Basketball Premier League (KNBL) with commanding wins over the weekend against varsity opponents.

The defending champions first triumphed over the USIU Tigers, securing an 85-67 victory on Saturday, before delivering a stunning 96-48 win over the University of Nairobi’s Terror on Sunday at the Nyayo Gymnasium.

Having played eight matches, City Thunder remains perfect, accumulating 16 points so far in the season.

Despite the commanding results, head coach Brad Ibs noted that the team made some mental errors during Saturday’s game against USIU, but saw it as an opportunity for younger players to gain valuable game time.

“We made mental lapses, but it was a good chance for our younger players to get extended minutes against a strong opponent. We discussed the mistakes after the game,” Ibs explained.

The team’s performance against Terror was an improvement, with the coach praising the players for better communication and effort on the court. “We played much better, and the focus now shifts to our upcoming game against Equity Dumas next weekend,” he added.

Thunder controlled the game from start to finish on Sunday, winning each quarter, with the first half ending 48-31 in their favor. The second half saw Thunder widen the gap even further, closing the game with a dominant 96-48 scoreline.

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KPLC Reports Record High Electricity Demand, Plans for Continued Growth

Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) has reported a significant increase in electricity consumption, with peak demand reaching a record high of 2,316 MW on February 12, 2025. According to KPLC's National Control Centre, electricity demand has been steadily rising over the past three years, with a noticeable acceleration in growth during 2024.

In 2021, KPLC saw electricity demand surpass the 2,000 MW mark, followed by peaks of over 2,100 MW in 2022 and 2,200 MW in 2023. The momentum continued to build in mid-2024, driven by significant infrastructure developments aimed at stabilizing the National Grid.

Key projects that have contributed to this growth include the completion of the Kimuka 220/66kV substation by KETRACO, which introduced four 66kV feeder lines to serve Nairobi and neighboring counties. Additionally, the 33kV double circuit interconnector between Narok and Bomet, along with other network reinforcement initiatives, have bolstered power supply reliability.

KPLC also reported connecting over 198,535 new customers to the national grid in the last six months alone. The company anticipates continued growth in electricity demand in the short and medium term due to improved grid stability and the completion of connectivity projects. This includes the upcoming Last Mile Phases IV and V, which will connect an additional 289,121 customers.

In line with this demand, KPLC is promoting the adoption of e-cooking and electric motorization to further stimulate electricity consumption while supporting environmental conservation efforts. Last year, the company announced a Ksh.258 million investment over three years to boost electric vehicle and motorbike usage in the country. This initiative includes the establishment of charging stations and the purchase of electric vehicles for operational use.

While KPLC is working to improve efficiency and enhance revenue as demand peaks, the company faces challenges with the indicative firm capacity of 2,344 gigawatt hours.

[kenyapulse]

Online Retailers Embrace AI to Minimize Clothing Returns

In a bid to tackle the growing problem of clothing returns, major online retailers are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) for solutions. With up to 30% of fashion items bought online being returned, primarily due to sizing issues, AI-driven tools are now playing a pivotal role in reducing these costly returns.

A 2024 study by McKinsey and the Business of Fashion revealed that many shoppers buy multiple sizes or styles, returning the ones that don’t fit, which significantly impacts profit margins. Each return costs between $21 and $46, factoring in transportation, processing, and restocking.

AI is now being used to address one of the main causes of returns: sizing discrepancies. Zoe Tournant, CEO of French startup Fringuant, markets an AI-based algorithm that helps customers select the right size by using a simple selfie. The AI model, trained on thousands of photos, analyzes the customer's body type based on height, weight, and even gender, offering a precise sizing recommendation within seconds.

Fringuant has seen success with major clients like the high-end womenswear brand Maje, which has reported a notable reduction in returns.

Similarly, Zalando, a major European online retailer, introduced its AI-driven sizing tool in 2023, allowing customers to take two photos of themselves in tight-fitting clothing to get size recommendations. By improving sizing accuracy, Zalando aims to reduce returns.

Beyond sizing issues, AI is also enhancing order fulfillment accuracy. At ID Logistics, which operates in 18 countries, smart cameras installed on order pickers’ trolleys help ensure that the correct product is selected. These cameras have reduced shipping errors by 90% in under two years.

Other innovations include AI-powered robots in warehouses that track stock and process thousands of pallets each night, further improving efficiency and inventory management.

With AI making strides in improving accuracy and reducing returns, online retailers are optimistic about enhancing profitability and customer satisfaction.

[kenyapulse]

MPs Call for Raila to Join Ruto's Government After AUC Chair Loss

Members of Parliament have expressed support for the idea of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga joining President William Ruto's government following his defeat in the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson race.

Kitui Central MP, Makali Mulu, suggested on Tuesday that Odinga’s experience and leadership would be an asset to the country and should be utilized by the government. He highlighted the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, which recognizes the role of the leader of the opposition, and urged its adoption to give Odinga an official position in the executive.

“Raila should be part of the government now that he is back. The NADCO report should be passed to ensure Kenyans benefit from his years of experience,” Mulu said in an interview with Citizen TV. He also pointed out that if Odinga chooses to work with Ruto, it could pave the way for more people to join the government, though some may have to step aside for others to take their place.

However, Mulu also noted that Odinga could choose to retire and leave behind his political ambitions. He warned that this might alienate younger Kenyans who feel betrayed by Odinga's actions during the political crisis, with many accusing him of abandoning the youth.

"He could step back and advise younger leaders, but this might not resonate with the Gen Zs, who see him as a figure that betrayed them," Mulu said.

Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge also supported the idea of utilizing Odinga's potential, stressing that Ruto’s government should not wait until the 2027 elections to involve the opposition leader in a formal role.

“Kenyans across the political divide recognize Raila’s value to the country. We should not wait until 2027 to give him a role but rather allow him to contribute to the nation now,” Mathenge said.

The conversation was sparked after Belgut MP Nelson Koech suggested that Odinga could be given a prominent position in the government, including his former role as Prime Minister. However, Mathenge dismissed the idea of reviving the Prime Minister's office, stating that it would require constitutional changes to be implemented.

The debate continues, with MPs advocating for Raila Odinga’s inclusion in the government to help move the country forward.

[kenyapulse]

NEMA Orders Sand Transporters to Secure Permits Under New Regulations

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has mandated all sand transporters to acquire permits in line with the newly established environmental guidelines.

In a statement issued on February 18, 2025, NEMA instructed those engaged in sand harvesting to apply for the necessary licenses via its official portal. Director-General Mamo Boru Mamo highlighted that the regulations, which were introduced under the Environmental Management and Coordination (Sand Harvesting) Regulations of 2024, aim to promote sustainable sand use while safeguarding the environment.

“The primary goal of these regulations is to facilitate responsible sand extraction practices, ensuring both environmental protection and resource sustainability,” the statement emphasized.

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Teachers Shine as Beacons of Hope in Narok County’s Education Landscape

In the rugged hills of Entasikiria, Narok South, Teacher Viona Koyie brings light to the classroom, fostering a culture of learning and resilience despite the challenges of her rural environment. Surrounded by Maasai traditions and wildlife, her classroom stands as a beacon of hope for the children of this mountainous region.

Viona, a passionate educator, is a proud member of the 'Operation Come to School' initiative, which has been working since 2015 to bring out-of-school children back to the classroom. Launched by UNICEF, the Government of Kenya, and other partners, the campaign targets children who dropped out due to cultural, economic, or societal barriers.

At Entasikiria Primary School, Viona’s classroom is vibrant and filled with life. Her creative educational posters line the walls, offering both inspiration and instruction. Despite a class size of 50 students, she knows each of her pupils personally and is dedicated to understanding their individual needs and obstacles.

"I want to show the children that no dream is too big, and with hard work, they too can succeed," says Viona, reflecting on her own journey from a pastoralist community, where girls often face barriers to education. Her parents defied cultural expectations, supporting her education from primary school through Teachers Training College, a decision that has forever shaped her future.

Her commitment to education is unwavering, despite the numerous obstacles she faces, including limited resources and long working hours. The positive change she has experienced through education not only empowers her but also enables her to support her parents financially, an achievement that makes her grateful.

“Education transformed my life. My parents are proud that I am able to support them today,” she says, emphasizing the transformative power of education, even in a society where traditional roles often limit opportunities for girls.

The success of 'Operation Come to School' has been remarkable, with over half a million children enrolled in schools across Kenya. In two phases (2015-2019 and 2019-2023), the program reached 349,460 children in the first phase and 246,168 in the second phase, focusing on areas with the lowest enrollment rates, particularly for girls and children with disabilities.

In partnership with the Education Above All Foundation, Hapag Lloyd, and local implementing bodies, the initiative has provided not only enrollment drives but also essential school supplies such as desks, stationery, and backpacks to support the increased student numbers. The program has also focused on ensuring that students stay in school, with consistent monitoring and follow-up.

In Narok County, school dropouts have often been attributed to gender and cultural barriers, insufficient infrastructure, and a lack of educational resources. Apollo Apuko, County Director of Education, highlights the urgent need for collaborative efforts to bring girls back to school, particularly those forced to drop out due to domestic duties or early marriages, as well as boys who often herd livestock instead of attending school.

Through community dialogues and encouragement from local leaders such as chiefs, many families have come to understand the importance of education. Teachers have created welcoming environments that encourage students to return, and the results speak for themselves, with increasing numbers of children now re-enrolled and thriving in school.

Elizabeth Waitha, Education Officer at UNICEF Kenya, notes that the initiative’s extension into 2024 will continue to focus on inclusive and equitable education for vulnerable communities. Teachers like Viona play an essential role, not just in teaching, but in providing psychosocial support for children who have experienced trauma, helping them regain focus and stability in the classroom.

As 'Operation Come to School' comes to an end, dedicated educators like Teacher Viona, with the continued support of educational partners, will remain the key to ensuring that every child’s journey in education is long-lasting and impactful. Viona’s dedication to nurturing the minds of her students in Narok serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative role that teachers play in shaping the future.