Increasing illegal fishing, plastic pollution and climate change have been cited as the main hin-drances to development of the blue economy in Africa.

Stakeholders in the Fourth Project Technical Committee meeting in Mombasa organized by Afri-can Union – Inter-African Bureau for Animal Resources(AU-IBAR) said the first phase of the pro-ject meant to conserve aquatic biodiversity in African blue economy made a milestone and they are yearning to for the second phase to address a number of issues affecting fishfolks.

Kenya director of fisheries and aquaculture development Mahongah Joseph said the government has completed the blue economy strategy which will be launched to address over exploitation of resources and address pollution in the Indian Ocean and mitigate climate change.

Speaking during the conference in Mombasa at Travellers Beach and Spa, Mr Joseph said support of Au-IBAR has assisted Kenya to address a number of challenges including how women and youth will be incorporated in the blue economy project.

Mr Joseph said the project has significantly contributed to the enhancement of the Pol-icy Environment, Regulatory Frameworks and Institutional capacities of AU Member States and Regional Economic Communities saying Kenya has finalized the develop-ment of her Blue Economy Strategy and is set to have it launched very soon.

“This high-level steering committee meeting, coming after a four-year dedicated im-plementation of the project by AU-IBAR, presents a platform to bring out achieve-ments, lessons and emerging issues that will be replicated in our Member States. From the perspective of the Kenyan government, there is much to carry forward and replicate in the various spheres of our development,” said Mr Joseph.

He added, “I am pleased to convey the gratitude of the Kenyan Government to SIDA and AU-IBAR for the benefits the country received from the Project including formal operationalization of the joint management of trans-boundary marine conservation areas (TBCA) in the Indian Ocean shared between the Kenya and Tanzania.”

Dorcas Agyei, Head IUCN project officer Ghana said the project through AU-IBAR has managed to improve managing its marine resources and help in gender mainstreaming.

Mrs Agyei said the project has equipped African nations with the tools, knowledge, and col-laborative frameworks necessary to safeguard aquatic ecosystems while unlocking in-clusive and sustainable economic opportunities for our continent.

"Youth and women play a key role in developing the blue economy and developing capacity of com-munity members, mainly women and youth, on nature-based solutions for ecosystem restoration,” said Mrs Agyei.

AU-IBAR fishing management and blue economy expert Mohamed Seisay said AU-IBAR has been working with different countries in the first phase of the project to strengthen institutional capacity to protect ocean resources to fight illegal fishing, mitigate and promote gender streaming and the second phase which will begin next year will address issues raised in the first phase by different countries.

Mr Seisay also noted increasing habitat encroachment has also become a threat to marine resources and needs to be addressed.

The meeting was attended by more than 20 countries across Africa.

Mvita MP Mohammed Machele has urged education stakeholders in Old Town to unite in reviving the historic Serani Primary School, warning that the community cannot allow declining education standards to take root.

He said the institution, once a leading centre of excellence, must be restored to serve local children adequately.

Speaking during the official unveiling of 10 newly renovated classrooms at Serani Primary School, Machele raised concern over the mushrooming of private schools operating in cramped and unsafe residential spaces, describing them as “shanty schools run in bedroom houses.”

He called on the Ministry of Education and local authorities to immediately inspect such facilities and shut down any that fail to meet required standards.

"We cannot compromise our education standards. Education is very important to our people,” he said.

The MP also called on parents to increase enrollment in local public schools such as Serani, saying the success of the school’s revival depends on strong community participation.

"We must take our children back to our own schools. Let’s enroll more students at Serani so we can rebuild it together,” Machele urged, emphasizing that parents have a critical role in improving education standards and securing a better future for their children.

December 2, 2025 – Christmas came early for Kenya Airways passengers on Tuesday when Coca-Cola surprised travellers with gifts at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and during their flights.

Passengers bound for Mombasa were welcomed with Christmas-themed gift hampers, instantly filling the busy terminal with holiday cheer.

The festive spirit continued 31,000 feet above sea level aboard the Nairobi–Mombasa flight, where passengers received additional surprises mid-air. 

“We wanted to bring the magic of Christmas to a place where people don’t always expect it; the airport,” said Monique Katana, Director of Frontline Marketing at Coca-Cola East and Central Africa.

“During the festive season, many Kenyans are travelling to reunite with loved ones, making JKIA the perfect place to spark moments of joy. Together with Kenya Airways, we saw an opportunity to welcome passengers with warmth, kindness, and festive cheer from the moment they step into the terminal. This year’s Coca-Cola Christmas message reminds us that the world needs more Santas; people who give, care, and spread kindness in both big and small ways. Today’s activation brings that message to life.”

The surprises are part of Coca-Cola’s Christmas campaign, which includes the famous Coca-Cola Caravan travelling around Kenya to share joy, cheer and kindness.

The Caravan has already visited towns in Western Kenya, the Rift Valley and Nairobi, and is now moving to other parts of the country encouraging people to show kindness and connect with one another.

The campaign’s theme, “The World Needs More Santas,” aims to inspire Kenyans to spread goodwill through simple, meaningful actions during the holiday season.

This year, Coca-Cola is celebrating everyday people who show kindness in their communities.

Through the Caravan and local events, Coca-Cola wants to remind Kenyans that even a small act of care can make a big difference.

The festive season is a time to slow down, reconnect and enjoy special moments with the people and traditions we love.

The Caravan also highlights the warmth of Kenyan culture by giving out local goods such as soda, chapati flour, fish, chickens and goats. It is visiting markets, malls and neighbourhoods, turning ordinary places into moments of fun, colour and joy.

Kenyans are encouraged to share their own “Santa moments” on Coca-Cola’s online platforms; whether it is a simple gesture, a kind act or a shared smile — to help spread joy this Christmas season.

In a city pulsing with innovation and youthful energy, the launch of the Tuki-Jituma initiative brought together some of Kenya’s most influential voices in government, industry, and the creative spaceunited by a shared mission: to propel young people to the forefront of the country’s digital economy.

If there was one place in Nairobi where the future felt electric and within reach, it was this event. Creators, policymakers, development partners and media filled the room, ready to frame a new narrative around youth opportunity and digital empowerment.

The morning opened on a high note with a lively rap performance by Shanty Bobo, setting the tone for a conversation centered on talent, resilience, and the transformative power of creativity.

Key Stakeholder Insights

Citi Foundation:
MaryAnne Mwaura, Director of Public Affairs for Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted Kenya’s persistent youth unemployment challenge, emphasizing that investing in young people is at the core of Citi’s mission. She underscored the Foundation’s commitment to unlocking pathways that allow youth to participate meaningfully in the modern workforce.

Girl Effect:
Jess Posner-Odede, CEO of Girl Effect, stressed the urgency of elevating young women within the digital space. She spoke passionately about the potential of the Girl Effect–Citi Foundation partnership to shift opportunities for girls in Kenya, ensuring they are not left behind as the digital economy expands.

Government:
Representing the State Department for Youth Affairs and the Creative Economy, Ms. Rose Wanjohi discussed the creative sector’s rapidly increasing contribution to the national economy. She reaffirmed government efforts to strengthen the industry—from the Creative Economy Bill under review to expanded training, improved digital access, and the establishment of creative production hubs across the country.

Spotlight on Tuki-Jituma

Girl Effect Kenya Country Director Nancy Njoki unpacked the vision and ambition behind Tuki-Jituma. The initiative aims to equip young creators with practical skills, digital tools, and opportunities to thrive in an increasingly competitive and tech-driven landscape. She emphasized that the program is designed not just to support individual creators but to influence how the ecosystem supports youth participation and success.

A Panel Conversation Rooted in Reality

A diverse panel featuring government representatives, Girl Effect, creative industry leaders, and youth talent offered a candid conversation about the opportunities and barriers facing Kenyan youth.
From policy gaps and digital exclusion to the responsibility of industry players in nurturing emerging talent, panelists called for a more coordinated and intentional approach to youth development. The consensus: talent exists in abundance—what’s needed is structured support, investment, and equitable access.

A Unified Call to Action

The Tuki-Jituma launch concluded with a powerful shared message: Kenya’s young creators are ready. The ecosystem is evolving. And with stronger cross-sector partnerships like the collaboration between Citi Foundation and Girl Effect—real, lasting change is not only possible but already underway.

The future of Kenya’s creative and digital economy is bright. And with initiatives like Tuki-Jituma lighting the path, the next generation of creators may soon be leading the way.

The Kenya Association of Travel Agents (KATA) has lauded the resumption of RwandAir flights to Mombasa, terming it a timely boost for the coastal region’s tourism and business sectors.

The airline officially reinstated its Mombasa on Monday , a move industry players say will enhance connectivity and offer travellers more affordable and flexible options.

KATA Vice Chairpeerson and Rwanda Air agent Charleston Travel Limited Managing Director, Hamisi Hassan, welcomed the move, noting that the reopening comes at a time when business and tourism activities are steadily picking up.

He said the airline plans to increase its frequencies to both Mombasa and Zanzibar, a shift expected to make travel more convenient and relatively cheaper for passengers.

"As the market opens up, we are confident that additional flights will ease movement, lower costs, and stimulate more travel across the region,” Hassan said.

He further urged the government to prioritise an open skies policy to attract more airlines and boost competition. They noted that policies encouraging more carriers to operate in Kenya will ultimately benefit travellers, promote tourism, and strengthen the aviation sector.

RwandAir has officially resumed its Mombasa flights, marking its return to the coastal city after a six-year break.

The airline has also unveiled a new Kigali–Zanzibar–Mombasa route, a strategic move aimed at strengthening regional connectivity and boosting tourism across East Africa.

The inaugural flight touched down on Monday afternoon, to a warm reception from aviation stakeholders in Mombasa.

Speaking during the launch, RwandAir Chief Commercial Officer Fouad Caunhye said the resumption signals renewed confidence in the coastal market and the airline’s commitment to reconnecting the region.

“For a start, we will be operating four flights weekly, but we are optimistic about the future and look forward to having daily flights. As you are aware, we had a small hitch in 2019 that forced us to stop our flights due to COVID-19, but we are now back,” the CEO noted.

He added that the new triangular route is more than a business decision,  it is about restoring relationships.

"We are not just reopening our route but reconnecting with our friends and colleagues,” he said, expressing hope that the service will enhance trade, tourism and people-to-people ties between Rwanda, Tanzania and Kenya.

Kenya Airports Authority Chairman Caleb Kositany welcomed the move, noting that it aligns with ongoing government efforts to modernise airports across the country. He said the return of RwandAir is a strong vote of confidence in Mombasa’s aviation potential.

“We appreciate the move by RwandAir to come back, this cements the fact that Mombasa Airport is truly an international airport,” Kositany stated, adding that the authority will continue investing in facilities to support growing regional traffic.

On his part, Kenya Coast Tourism Association Chairman Victor Shitaka said the development is a major boost to the local tourism sector, noting that increased regional connectivity will translate into higher visitor numbers.

“This is exactly what we have been looking for. It is fantastic to have RwandAir back here ,it is a big boost to our tourism industry and it will certainly add numbers,” Shitaka said.

The fight against HIV/AIDS remains a critical national duty for Kenya, demanding a concerted effort and substantial investment, according to a recent address by Musalia Mudavadi, the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs.

Speaking on behalf of H.E. President William Ruto at the 2025 World AIDS Day Commemoration held at Nyayo Stadium, PCS Mudavadi highlighted the immense challenge the nation faces while acknowledging significant strides in its response.

With 1,326,336 people living with HIV in Kenya, the financial requirement to sustain prevention, care, and long-term management efforts is considerable.

PCS Mudavadi noted that the nation requires Kshs. 30 billion to secure vital commodities necessary for this ongoing public health initiative.

"These numbers remind [the nation] that this fight is not just medical, but a national duty to protect our people and secure the wellbeing of future generations," the Cabinet Secretary stated, reflecting on how the epidemic has shaped Kenya’s history over the past four decades, testing its resilience.

CS Mudavadi emphasized President Ruto's message that HIV and AIDS persist as major global health concerns, particularly for countries like Kenya.

However, he underscored the notable progress made by the country: 87 percent of people living with HIV were on Anti-Retroviral Treatment (ART).

Coverage for the Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) reached 90.1 percent, contributing to healthier lives and the birth of HIV-free newborns.

The Prime Cabinet Secretary reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring every Kenyan has access to comprehensive prevention, care, and treatment services.

He pledged continued collaboration with local and international partners to guarantee that life-saving medication reaches all who need it.

Mudavadi concluded with a call for national unity and determination in the ongoing efforts toward achieving an HIV-free Kenya.

The Embassy of the Czech Republic in Nairobi, in collaboration with AfricaCentric Entertainment, successfully launched Shanga Trails, a new cultural initiative highlighting the unique artistic and historical ties between Czechia and Kenya.

The launch took place on Saturday, 22 November 2025, at The Opportunity Factory in Karen, bringing together Kenyan and Czech partners to celebrate a shared legacy of craftsmanship, creativity and collaboration.

The launch of Shanga Trails brought together cultural leaders, artisans, designers, media, creatives and partners for a celebration of cultural connection, exchange and innovation, featuring artisan showcases and live demonstrations of beadwork, interactive storytelling on the centuries-long history of Czech glass beads in Kenya and East Africa.

Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Kenya, H.E. Mrs. Nicol Adamcová, shared, “Shanga Trails was more than a single event; it marked the beginning of a multi-year journey that celebrates sustainable creativity and deepens cross-cultural exchange between Czechia and Kenya. Through this initiative, we aimed to empower artisan communities, inspire young people to explore design, and promote both cultural and environmental awareness through collaborative art projects, exhibitions, and public installations,” adding, “By bringing together Czech glass artistry and Kenyan design and storytelling, Shanga Trails demonstrated the true strength of cultural diplomacy: the ability of art and creativity to transcend borders, connect people, and nurture shared values.”

The Shanga Trails launch was held in partnership with Raj Ushanga, the official distributors of Czech beads in Kenya and East Africa and a key figure in Kenya’s long-standing relationship with Czech glassmakers, having served as the country’s primary importer of Czech glass beads since 1976, dating back to the era of Czechoslovakia. Renowned glassmakers Anselm Kitengela Glass also joined as partners, installing their beloved decorative pieces at the event.

The event featured a blend of music and fashion. Mr. Judah Onesimus, a gifted Kenyan trumpet player with Chamber Music Kenya and a recent graduate of the Prague Conservatory, delivered a special live performance, symbolising the artistic exchange at the heart of Shanga Trails.

On the fashion front, the event showcased works from two leading Kenyan design houses that embody heritage, craftsmanship and contemporary innovation: Sandstorm Kenya and Studio Namnyak, led by international Kenyan designer Namyak Odupoy. Sandstorm Kenya presented its new line of glass-beaded suede leather bags, created in collaboration with designer Wini Awuondo and skilled beading communities across the country, blending Czech glassmaking tradition with Kenyan artisanal mastery.

Crafted using Czech glass beads supplied by Preciosa Ornela, the collection beautifully blends Czech glassmaking finesse with Kenyan artisanal heritage, paying tribute to tradition, celebrating while elevating craftsmanship. Studio Namnyak showcased new fashion pieces integrating beadwork in thoughtful, modern ways for the conscious consumer.

Guests also enjoyed curated tastings from Kenyan Originals’ Mara Gin and Bila Shaka’s Czech Mates, a collaboration brew developed with Budweiser Budvar, the national brewery of the Czech Republic– a spirited toast to the shared beer-making heritage of both nations.

Shanga Trails will in 2026 present a collaboration with Ol Pejeta Conservancy for the northern white rhino IVF fundraising campaign, adding a powerful conservation dimension to their mission. In the coming months, Shanga Trails will also introduce Shanga Kifaru, a nationwide series of artist- and community-beaded rhino sculptures that will culminate in a September 2026 charity auction in support of the northern white rhino IVF programme.

The unveiling of Sandstorm’s beaded leather collection, the debut of Czech Mates beer and the future launch of the Shanga Kifaru conservation initiative showcased the depth of collaboration between Kenya and the Czech Republic and the power of cultural heritage as a catalyst for creativity, innovation and shared purpose.

For centuries, Czech artisans have been renowned for their mastery of glass beadmaking, shaping tiny jewels with remarkable precision and artistry.

Across Kenya, communities such as the Maasai, Samburu, Turkana, Rendille and others have long used beadwork as a profound cultural language expressing identity, status, beauty, love and continuity. Shanga Trails brought these histories into conversation, tracing the largely forgotten routes through which Czech glass beads travelled across Africa and honouring how Kenyan artisans transformed them into powerful symbols of cultural identity. The project positioned beadwork as more than ornamentation: it became a shared narrative of craftsmanship, migration, creativity, and connection between two nations.

At its core, Shanga Trails honoured traditional knowledge systems while reimagining craft for global audiences. It highlighted the extraordinary journey of a humble bead and its ability to travel across continents, linking cultures in unexpected ways. Through this initiative, the centuries-old Czech tradition of glass beadmaking and Kenya’s rich heritage of bead artistry came together to illuminate a story of cultural dialogue, resilience and shared heritage.

Stanbic Bank Kenya has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Premier Solar Solutions Limited to expand access to affordable and reliable solar energy solutions for businesses across the country.

The partnership strengthens the Bank’s renewable energy proposition and supports Kenya’s transition to clean and stable power.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Priscilla Were, Head of Sustainability at Stanbic Bank Kenya, said the partnership reflects the Bank’s commitment to supporting sustainable growth. 

“Renewable energy is a strategic priority for Stanbic Bank because it supports Kenya’s economic resilience and long-term prosperity. Access to stable and affordable power is essential for businesses. Through this partnership with Premier Solar, we are removing barriers that have slowed the adoption of clean energy,” said Ms Were. 

“We have redesigned our renewable energy financing so that more clients can transition to solar with ease. With loan tenors of up to ten years, up to 100% financing, simplified credit checks for SMEs and no additional collateral for eligible customers, we are making renewable energy more accessible and more affordable,” added Ms Were.

Under the collaboration, clients will receive free energy audits, streamlined documentation, a moratorium on principal repayments during installation, discounted interest rates, and NIL processing fees for enterprise clients.

All installations funded under the partnership will use Tier 1 solar panels, batteries and inverters sourced through accredited EPC partners.

 “Our goal is to support our clients throughout the transition, from sourcing equipment to installation and financing. Together with Premier Solar, we will help businesses reduce energy costs, improve reliability and contribute to Kenya’s clean energy goals,” said Ms Were.

Premier Solar Solutions CEO, Rupesh Hindocha, welcomed the agreement, noting that the partnership strengthens the company’s mission to deliver high-quality solar solutions. 

"Premier Solar is committed to providing clean, affordable and reliable power to businesses in Kenya. Working with Stanbic Bank enables more enterprises to adopt high-performing solar systems through flexible and accessible financing,” said Hindocha.

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced its full readiness for the upcoming Magarini by-election, assuring residents and stakeholders that all logistical and operational plans are in place.

The commission said it has deployed trained personnel and finalized the distribution of election materials across the constituency.

Addressing the media in Magarini, IEBC Commissioner Dr. Alutalala Mukhwana said security has been reinforced, with standby officers positioned to respond swiftly to any eventualities that may arise during the voting exercise.

“We have tightened our security arrangements to guarantee a peaceful and credible by-election,” Dr. Mukhwana said, adding that the commission is working closely with security agencies to maintain order throughout the process.

The by-election, slated to fill the vacant Magarini parliamentary seat, has drawn heightened interest from political parties and voters in the region.