The Media for Environment, Science, Health, and Agriculture (MESHA) has launched the official IFAJ 2025 Congress website at https://ifaj2025.meshascience.org/.

The site serves as the central hub for event details, registration, program updates, and insights into Kenya’s vibrant agricultural sector.

The IFAJ 2025 Congress will take place from October 14 to 19, 2025, at the Boma Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya. The newly launched website offers a seamless experience for delegates, providing access to the full congress program, comprehensive information on field tours, pre and post congres tours together with cultural experiences, registration information as well as resources for delegates and media partners.

The IFAJ 2025 Congress marks a historic milestone as the first-ever edition in East, Central, West and North Africa.

Only South Africa has hosted it twice in the past. “This prestigious global gathering will bring together top agricultural journalists and communicators to explore agricultural journalism's latest trends, innovations, and challenges in Kenya,” says Bozo Jenje, MESHA Chairman.

He added that since 1958, the IFAJ Congress has provided a platform for industry professionals to network and exchange knowledge.

“Following successful African editions in South Africa (2004, 2017), we at MESHA are proud to announce that the Congress returns to the continent for the third time, this time spotlighting Kenya’s thriving agriculture, sustainability efforts, and cultural richness,” said Aghan Daniel, Secretary MESHA who also doubles as the Congress Director.

MESHA, Africa’s leading science journalism network with over 120 members, 50 of whom specialise in agriculture reporting, is spearheading this historic event. With two decades of experience promoting science and agricultural reporting across Africa, MESHA is well-positioned to host this global gathering to showcase Kenya’s agricultural innovations. Delegates will explore Kenya’s dynamic agricultural sector through immersive field tours.

These include visiting the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) Coffee Research Institute in Ruiru, Kiambu County, witnessing advancements in dairy technology and value chain development in Nai’posha Dairy Farm, and experience the innovative world of black soldier fly (BSF) production and observe how BSF larvae is transforming the production of animal feed by providing a sustainable and affordable protein-rich alternative to traditional feeds in Harcourt Farm Limited among many other tours lined up.

The delegates will also be spolt for choice as they savour the great menu of fun tours and post congress tours to national parks and other touristic attractions within the city and within a radius of just 150km from the Green Ciy in The Sun, as Nairobi is famously referred in touristic cycles.

The M-PESA Jr. NBA tournament makes its next stop in Rift Valley, with Uasin Gishu High School set to host the highly anticipated regional finals this weekend.

A total of 40 teams, featuring 480 boys and girls, are expected to hit the court, battling for the championship in a series of 5-on-5 games.

Ahead of the weekend games, Safaricom CEO Dr. Peter Ndegwa said, “This weekend, we expect to empower over 400 young people from Rift Valley region by equipping them with essential financial literacy skills. So far, our visits to the last two regions, Nairobi and the Coast, have been a great success."

Adding "I believe programs like these are crucial for young people from an early age. This initiative is about building champions both on and off the court, nurturing sporting talent while preparing the next generation for financial independence.”

The Rift Valley Regional Games come a week after the Coast Regional Finals, where Aga Khan Academy and Umoja Junior School from Changamwe clinched top honours.

In the Nairobi regionals, played two weeks ago, St. John’s Junior School from Korogocho and Olympic Junior School were victorious.

The winners in both the boys’ and girls’ categories will be awarded smartphones and airtime courtesy of Safaricom’s M-PESA. Outstanding players will be scouted to attend the Top 100 elite basketball development camp in April.

The M-PESA Jr. NBA program is designed to provide basketball development and financial literacy training to more than 10,000 boys and girls across Kenya. The tournament heads to Eldoret this weekend. Kisumu will follow next weekend.

The regional tournaments will culminate in a national tournament, which will be held in collaboration with the National Secondary School games.

As the world-renowned Lewa Safari Marathon marks its 25th anniversary, it continues to be a driving force for conservation and community development across Kenya and beyond.

Since its inception, Safaricom has been the event’s main sponsor, while Huawei has provided steadfast support for over a decade. Together, their contributions have played a crucial role in creating lasting impact, strengthening wildlife conservation efforts, uplifting local communities, and connecting people to nature.

Organised by international conservation organisation Tusk and Kenya’s Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, with lead sponsors Safaricom and Huawei, the annual event has raised over KSh 1.3 billion - US $9 million - since the first race in 2000.

The marathon has become a beacon for wildlife conservation, community development, healthcare, and education across Kenya. The unwavering support of Safaricom and Huawei has inspired new partnerships this year, strengthening the event’s impact.

Their long-term commitment has encouraged companies including Access Bank, ICEA Lion, Highlands, AMREF, Elewana, Safarilink, Garda World, Tropical Heat, and African Originals to join the cause.

Together, these sponsors provide the financial backbone necessary to sustain and expand vital conservation and community initiatives.

Dr. Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom, said: “For 25 years, we have supported the Lewa Marathon, a cause that goes beyond conserving Lewa Conservancy to uplifting the surrounding communities, aligning perfectly with our purpose of transforming lives. As both the marathon and Safaricom mark 25 years in 2025, we are proud to commit KES 10 million to this year’s edition. Additionally, we will host the Safaricom Karura Mini Run in May, a fundraising initiative we introduced last year with our partners to further support the Lewa Marathon."

Gao Fei, CEO of Huawei Kenya, said: “Huawei is delighted to have supported the Lewa Safari Marathon for the past 17 years. The conservancy is home to some of the rarest wildlife and we know through our support and that of Safaricom, a difference has been made in preserving these iconic species for future generations as well as the surrounding communities”

The funds have been instrumental in protecting the critically endangered mountain bongo, a rare species found exclusively in the mountains of central Kenya.

They have also supported conservation efforts for Kenya’s Grevy’s zebra and black rhino—both critically endangered—as well as some of East Africa’s last remaining ‘super-tusker’ elephants.

Nick Bubb, Chief Executive of Tusk, said: “The Lewa Safari Marathon is more than just a race - it’s a marathon with purpose; a movement that has, for 25 years, united runners from around the world in support of Kenya’s extraordinary wildlife and communities."

Adding "Through the event, we have raised vital funds that drive conservation efforts, protect threatened species, and uplift local livelihoods. Celebrating this quarter century milestone reminds of the power of collective action and the impact we can achieve together for the future of Africa’s natural heritage.”

Equally vital is the marathon’s support for local communities living alongside wildlife. Race funding has financed six hospitals and clinics, providing essential healthcare to approximately 40,000 people in rural Kenyan communities each year.

It has also supported education through bursaries and infrastructure for over 10,000 students and empowered 724 women artisans through beadwork and beekeeping initiatives, fostering economic independence and sustainable livelihoods.

Mike Watson, CEO of Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, said: “The Lewa Safari Marathon embodies the deep connection between conservation and community. At Lewa, we envision a future where all Kenyans value, protect, and benefit from wildlife, and this event continues to be a powerful force in making that vision a reality. As one of Kenya’s pioneering conservancies, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Man and Biosphere Reserve, Lewa has seen remarkable growth in wildlife populations and biodiversity."

Adding "Equally, our community programs have expanded to support thousands, reinforcing the essential role of conservation in securing sustainable livelihoods. None of this progress would be possible without the unwavering support of our runners, sponsors, conservation partners and the neighbouring communities we work with. As we mark this milestone, we celebrate the extraordinary impact we have made together and look ahead to an even brighter, more sustainable future for both people and wildlife."

The success of the Lewa Safari Marathon is a testament to the power of corporate leadership in driving meaningful change, creating lasting impact, and connecting employees, customers, and stakeholders to a greater cause.

As the event marks its 25th anniversary on Saturday 28 June 2025, it will once again unite runners, conservationists, local communities, and businesses in a shared mission to protect wildlife and uplift communities. By connecting people with nature through the power of running, this milestone race aims to raise a record-breaking amount for conservation and community projects in a single year.

Since 2000, more than 25,000 runners from over 40 countries have participated, earning it recognition from Runner’s World as one of the world’s top ten amateur races.

The event offers a 42km full marathon, a 21km half-marathon, a 10km executive race and a 5km distance for younger runners. Participants pound a high-altitude course along the savannah trails of the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, home to some of the highest densities of wildlife in Kenya including the iconic ‘Big Five’ - buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard, and rhinoceros.

In a groundbreaking move to boost biodiversity and enhance the coastal tourism appeal, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has launched an ambitious wildlife restocking project aimed at reintroducing and introducing key species to Shimba Hills National Reserve in Kwale County.

This initiative seeks to address the challenges posed by low faunal diversity, improve the reserve’s tourism profile, and contribute to regional wildlife conservation efforts.

Located in the heart of coastal Kenya, Shimba Hills National Reserve is part of the Eastern Arc Mountain and Coastal Forests biodiversity hotspot, a region renowned for its rich plant and animal diversity.

Gazetted in 1968, the reserve has long been a haven for species such as the rare sable antelope, African elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and a unique array of bird, amphibian, and reptile species, many of which are of significant national and international conservation concern.

Despite its ecological importance, the reserve faces several challenges, including a relatively low diversity of large mammal species, which has diminished its appeal to visitors. This has impacted tourism activities and reduced the overall visitor experience.

Additionally, surrounding wildlife dispersal areas in Lunga Lunga, Samburu, and Kinango sub-counties face threats from human-wildlife conflict, poaching, and land use changes, further pressuring local wildlife populations.

The reintroduction and introduction of wildlife species are expected to yield multiple benefits for the reserve and the broader ecosystem. By increasing species diversity, the project will enhance ecological balance, creating a more vibrant and dynamic environment.

This, in turn, will make the reserve more attractive to tourists, improving the visitor experience and encouraging repeat visits. The resulting boost in tourism will provide economic benefits for local communities.

Moreover, relocating animals from surrounding wildlife dispersal areas will help alleviate pressure on these regions, reducing human-wildlife conflict and safeguarding animals from poaching threats.

The initiative will also address the underutilization of grass forage in the reserve due to the low density of grazers.

Species earmarked for translocation include 100 common zebras, 20 Maasai giraffes, 50 impalas, 50 topis, 100 buffaloes, 30 elands, 50 Coke’s hartebeests, lesser kudus, and 10 white rhinos (as a trial introduction). These species, sourced from surrounding areas and protected zones, will help mitigate poaching threats, enhance the reserve’s population, and bolster wildlife conservation efforts.

This wildlife restocking project represents a significant step toward securing the future of Shimba Hills National Reserve and its surrounding regions.

We are excited about the potential impact this initiative will have, not only on the reserve but also on wildlife conservation efforts across the coastal region.

Car & General has launched the CarGen Academy as part of its wider sustainability initiatives for the Group. The academy will drive training, innovation, mentorship and continuous leaning for the Group’s members.

The event, officiated by the Group CEO Vijay Gidoomal, was held at the company’s headquarters in Nairobi.

Speaking at the ceremony, Vijay Gidoomal said, “The CarGen Academy aims to develop leadership talent and foster a culture of innovation through training and development programs that cultivate sustainable growth. C&G is committed to its mantra of making customers smile in every street, in every town and the academy ties well in order to achieve this.”

On his part, Eric Sangoro who heads the academy said, “The 4th industrial revolution is re-shaping the way we work. Organizations should adopt to rapid technological advancements like AI, automation, data analytics and leadership strategies. The CarGen Academy will help bridge the gap at C&G.”

“The academy will offer training in leadership development, innovation techniques, AI technology, soft skills among others through workshops, executive coaching and mentorship, masterclasses and guest speakers.” Erick added, “Delivery will be through in-person classes, online learning and hybrid platforms.”

Today’s challenging business environment means that change is not only continuous but accelerating.

This calls for agility and innovation-driven models to thrive in the new AI and post-AI era. Under the slogan ‘keep learning, keep leading”, the academy will be the recognized training arm mandated to align employees with the C&G’s business objectives.

Car & General is a listed diversified distributor for two and three wheelers, forklifts, agricultural tractors, earth movers, laundry equipment and diesel generators, among other products. Established in 1936, it has 12 branches in Kenya and has an East African presence.

Approximately 5,000 vulnerable Kenyan households will benefit from a donation of foodstuffs in a compassionate gesture by Bamburi Cement Plc in the Holy Month of Ramadhan.

The Bamburi Cement Food Drive Initiative launched by Amsons Group, the Pan African business conglomerate that recently acquired Bamburi Cement Plc, has kicked-off by providing an assortment of food stuff to 4000 families in Mombasa and 1,000 in Nairobi.

The initiative is expected to cushion roughly 30,000 less fortunate Muslim faithful in this year’s iftar and an ambition to scale across the country in the near-term.

Muslims around the world fast from sunrise to sunset during Ramadhan in an endeavor to deepen their faith, but more than 600 million people—including women and children in Kenya— cannot break the fast because of food hardships during iftar.

According to Amsons group Managing Director Edha Nahdi this initiative reflects the company's commitment to social welfare for communities in which it operates.

“Providing these iftar food packs to our communities enables us to spread the blessings of Ramadhan throughout the communities while also fostering hope, unity, and solidarity within society. This is a significant step towards reviving and expanding our social impact programs throughout our value chain across the country,” said Nahdi.

In line with this commitment, Bamburi Cement Plc will host roughly 400 clients and various stakeholders of Islamic faith in Mombasa and Nairobi – as the Holy Month of Ramadhan unfolds.

Mr. Nahdi added “We believe that true change comes from constant and intimate engagement with our stakeholders in the spirit of social responsibility, inclusivity and diversity.

Bamburi Cement’s Commercial Director Martin Kariuki said that the company is keen to recommit its resources to the society across Kenya including in education, health, infrastructure, economic empowerment and environment.

“As a brand that places paramountcy in growing alongside communities and customers, we want to expand this initiatives across the country for the benefit of our communities,” said Kariuki.

Speaking during the event, which was graced by at least 50 religious’ leaders from across Mombasa County, Sheikh Zubeid Noor thanked Bamburi Cement Plc’s new leadership for resuscitating the company’s engagement with the Muslim community and leading on corporate giving during the Holy Month of Ramadhan.

Bamburi Cement social impact programs span the fields of education, health, infrastructure, economic empowerment and environment.

The programs, which cut across Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Kajiado, and Machakos Counties, have included free-to-public wellness clinics for cervical cancer screening for over 36,000 patients, Bamburi Cancer Centre’s infrastructure sponsorship and an annual full scholarship for 107 students. 

The host, Aga Khan Academy from Mombasa and Umoja Junior School from Changamwe were crowned the new champions of the M-PESA Jr. NBA Coast Regional finals, held yesterday at the prestigious Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa County.

The Aga Khan Academy boys, under the stewardship of Coach Eugine Auka, showcased their prowess in the boys’ finals, securing a hard-fought 25-19 victory over Kinango Junior School in a tightly contested showdown at the indoor court arena. Aga Khan executed a high-pressure defense, forcing turnovers and shutting down their opponents in both halves to clinch the regional title.

In the girls’ finals, Umoja Junior School from Changamwe stamped their authority over the host team, Aga Khan Academy, in a dominant and electrifying game to secure a 20-15 victory. Umoja set the tempo early in the first half, with Zuhura Suleiman’s quick-fire buckets propelling them to an 8-4 lead at halftime. Despite Aga Khan’s relentless effort to mount a second-half comeback, Umoja held their ground with strong offensive plays and solid defense, sealing the victory and the championship title.

Speaking at the award ceremony, Aga Khan head coach Eugine Auka expressed his excitement after his team’s remarkable performance in both categories. “I am really impressed by what my teams have achieved in this tournament. Winning the boys’ title and finishing second in the girls’ category is no easy feat, especially against such tough and well-prepared opponents. I want to commend the organizers, M-PESA and NBA Africa, for such a well-organized tournament. We need more of these high-quality competitions to help our young players develop and excel in this sport,” said Eugine Auka, Head Coach, Aga Khan Academy.

Both Aga Khan (Boys) and Umoja JSS (Girls) secured their spots in the finals after stella performances in the semifinals, where Aga Khan outplayed St. Mary’s JSS 18-10 and Umoja JSS edged out Tsagwa JSS 8-6 in morning matchups.

As part of their victory, players from both winning teams walked away with smartphones and airtime courtesy of Safaricom M-PESA.

Taking third place were Oshwal Academy and Tsagwa JSS in the boys’ and girls’ categories respectively, after playoff victories against St. Mary’s and Mwanamunga.

“M-PESA Jr. NBA Coast Regional tournament has truly demonstrated the immense potential in our young basketball talents. That is why, as Safaricom, we are committed to supporting various sports in the country to nurture and develop these young athletes. We recognize that sports is not only a passion but a viable career path. Beyond supporting the competition, we are also equipping these young players with essential financial literacy skills through M-PESA Go,” said Evans Muga, Coast Regional Marketing Lead at Safaricom.

The two-day M-PESA Jr. NBA Coast Regional tournament saw 40 teams comprising 480 players from Kilifi, Mombasa and Kwale take part in the event. Beyond the on-court action, Safaricom integrated financial literacy sessions through M-PESA Go, which saw the young players equipped with essential financial management skills.

“I never imagined we had such incredible basketball talent at the grassroots level. What I witnessed here today proves that Kenya is brimming with young talent. What we need now is the right structures to further develop these sports. Seeing 480 players take part in this tournament is a testament to the passion and potential we have,” said Michael Finley, NBA Africa - Kenya Country Lead.

With Nairobi and Coast regions done, the M-PESA Jr. NBA tournament now heads to Eldoret on March 15th – 16th, 2025, at Nova Pioneer School.

Journalist cum academician Bozo Jenje has released his second book.

The book titled 'Unmasked Wives' was launched on Saturday at a colorful event held at the little theatre club, attended by family members, colleagues and friends.

The book is about emotional fulfilment of women sexual desires with secret male lover partners in intimate relationships. The story revolves around dissatisfied women in marriage that explore new lovers for enjoyment, self-fulfillment, and thrill.