KBC Channel 1

Author: Claire Wanja

  • Kiambu deploys air monitors to boost low-carbon transport

    Kiambu deploys air monitors to boost low-carbon transport

    Kiambu County last week began generating real-time data on transport-related emissions following the installation of six air quality monitoring devices aimed at supporting evidence-based policies for clean and sustainable mobility.

    The devices were installed with support from the World Resources Institute (WRI) along major traffic corridors with high concentrations of two and three-wheelers, commonly known as boda bodas and tuk-tuks in Thika, Juja, Ruiru, Githurai, Kiambu and Karuri municipalities.

    The air quality monitoring exercise marked one of the preliminary activities under the Safiri Electric Project, a multi-agency initiative being implemented by the State Departments of Environment, Forestry and Climate Change; Trade; National Treasury; and Roads and Transport, in partnership with the Council of Governors and WRI.

    The project is being rolled out in Kiambu, Kajiado and Kilifi counties and seeks to decarbonise Kenya’s transport sector by accelerating the electrification of two- and three-wheelers and expanding charging infrastructure in peri-urban and rural areas.

    According to the Department of Water, Environment, Energy and Natural Resources, Kiambu County, the installed devices will transmit real-time data on carbon emissions and air quality levels, providing baseline measurements before and during the implementation of decarbonisation measures. The data will be used to track progress and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing vehicle-related pollution in urban centres.

    The Safiri Electric Project aligns with Kenya’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), the National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP 3) and county climate priorities, and is expected to run from 2025 to 2029.

    In October 2025, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and WRI jointly launched a national programme to accelerate the adoption of electric two- and three-wheelers, with Kiambu among the beneficiary counties.

    Commenting on the initiative, George Mwaniki, WRI Kenya Country Representative, said Kenya has a unique opportunity to cut emissions through clean transport.

    “With two-wheelers accounting for over 70 per cent of annual vehicle registrations and over 90 per cent of Kenya’s electricity generated from renewable sources, electrifying this segment offers a high-impact, scalable solution to reduce emissions and support economic growth,” he said.

    The County Government of Kiambu, under the leadership of Governor Kimani Wamatangi, has positioned itself at the forefront of climate action by championing initiatives aimed at mitigating climate change impacts, improving air quality and strengthening community resilience.

    Officials noted that the deployment of monitoring technology will play a critical role in guiding evidence-based policy decisions as counties adopt cleaner and more sustainable means of transport.

  • From Generative to Agentic: How Kenya’s AI Future Will Be Built on Trust, Data and Practical Automation

    From Generative to Agentic: How Kenya’s AI Future Will Be Built on Trust, Data and Practical Automation

    Over the past two years, Generative AI (GenAI) has captured global attention, including here in Kenya, thanks to its ability to draft content, summarise reports, and offer conversational assistance.

    These tools provide meaningful value, especially for teams looking to boost productivity and ease administrative workloads. However, GenAI represents  only one part of the broader AI ecosystem. For most Kenyan organisations, the real opportunity lies in understanding how generative and agentic technologies complement rather than replace one another, and how each can be applied at different stages of digital maturity.

    The effectiveness of any AI system, whether generative or agentic, depends heavily on the quality of the data and workflows it operates on. This is where many Kenyan organisations face their greatest challenge. Manual processes, inconsistent data entry, fragmented systems and limited integrations between various systems remain common issues across sectors. These realities make it difficult to leap directly into advanced AI use cases. Without clean, organised and accessible data, even the most sophisticated AI systems can produce inconsistent or misguided outputs.

    For this reason, the most practical starting point for many Kenyan businesses is not the immediate adoption of advanced GenAI models but the digitisation and automation of core processes. Tasks such as routing customer-service tickets, reconciling mobile-money transactions, managing field-officer reports or processing sensor data may seem modest compared to futuristic AI visions. Yet these workflow-driven improvements provide immediate, tangible value. They reduce errors, improve consistency and create a clearer picture of how information flows through an organisation. As these processes stabilise, they naturally highlight areas where AI can actually make a difference.

    Once these foundations are in place, AI becomes especially powerful. While GenAI helps teams create and be more productive, agentic AI helps organisations act and be more efficient. It proposes actions, verifies them and then executes based on predefined business rules. This distinction matters greatly in sectors such as BFSI or public services in Kenya, where trust, compliance and accountability are central.

    A loan approval system powered by agentic AI, for instance, might recommend an action but will only execute it after confirming that KYC rules have been met, thresholds respected and documentation verified. This combination of intelligence and verifiable guardrails enables fast and reliable decision-making.

    As Kenyan enterprises grow more comfortable with AI-enabled systems, another important layer emerges: context. Global AI LLM models, despite their power, often struggle with the nuances of local regulations, business practices, cultural norms and sector-specific terminology. This is where contextual AI and sovereign LLMs become essential.

    These are models fine-tuned with local data and designed to operate within specific regulatory frameworks, ensuring that the insights and actions they generate reflect the realities of the Kenyan market. Such models do not replace global systems; rather, they complement them by adding the local intelligence required for accuracy, relevance and regulatory alignment.

    Beyond the technology itself, the rise of AI presents an exciting opportunity to strengthen what Zoho calls transnational localism, the idea that global technology can fuel local innovation and economic empowerment. No-code and low-code tools, embedded with AI capabilities—allow SMEs, NGOs and governments in regions like Kisumu, Eldoret or Turkana to build their own automations without needing specialised data-science expertise.

    A micro-insurer can automate risk assessments based on local claims patterns; a county office can streamline citizen services; an agritech startup can create workflows around farmer support. The result is a decentralisation of digital innovation that allows solutions to emerge from the communities that understand their challenges best.

    For leaders charting their AI journey, the path forward becomes clearer when viewed through this practical lens. The most sustainable strategy is to begin with workflow automation, build strong data foundations, introduce GenAI where it offers productivity improvements and gradually adopt agentic AI when the organisation is ready for secure and auditable automation. As maturity grows, contextual and sovereign AI models add the essential layer of local relevance.

    Kenya’s AI future will not be defined by a race toward the most advanced model. Instead, it will be shaped by organisations that take a balanced approach. Those that invest in good data, well-designed workflows, and systems designed to act responsibly will see the greatest returns, through improved customer experience, reduced operational costs, and empowered teams who spend less time on repetitive tasks and more time on meaningful work.

    Ultimately, the future belongs to businesses that embrace AI not as a flashy tool, but as a dependable partner in delivering lasting impact.

    Veerakumar Natarajan is the Country Head, Zoho Kenya

  • PSC approves expansion of JOOTRH staff

    PSC approves expansion of JOOTRH staff

    The Public Service Commission (PSC) has approved a new human resource establishment for Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), clearing the way for a major expansion of its workforce as the facility transitions from a county hospital to a Level Six national referral hospital.

    Under the approved structure, JOOTRH will have a total of 1,805 staff, up from the current workforce of about 1,200.

    Of these, 1545 positions, equivalent to 86 per cent, will be in technical services, while 260 positions, or 14 per cent, will be in administrative and shared services.

    The approval was formalized on Tuesday when the Kisumu County Public Service Board presented the PSC-endorsed human resource instruments to the hospital’s leadership.

    JOOTRH Non-Executive Board Chairman, Dr. Olang’o Onudi, received the documents and handed them over to the Acting Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Joshua Clinton Okise.

    The instruments include an approved organisational structure and staff establishment, career guidelines, and a human resource policies and procedures manual tailored specifically for the hospital.

    They also provide for a 14-tier grading structure to guide staff progression.

    Speaking during the handing over meeting at the facility in Kisumu, Acting CEO Dr. Joshua Okise said the approval marked a major milestone in the hospital’s transition to national status, noting that the hospital previously operated without a dedicated human resource policy framework.

    “These are documents we have worked on for close to four months, and their approval means we now have clear policies, a manual and a structure to guide employment and management of staff. This is a huge step forward for the institution,” he said.

    The new organisational structure, he said, has been anchored on five directorates—Clinical Services, Integrated Health Services, Nursing Services, Training and Research, and Corporate Services.

    He added that the CEO’s office will directly oversee Corporate Communications, Supply Chain Management and Legal Services with the hospital set to operate through 25 divisions.

    Board Chairman Dr. Olang’o Onudi praised the technical teams involved in developing the instruments, saying JOOTRH was the only institution among several applicants whose submissions were fully approved by the PSC.

    “As a specialised national referral facility, JOOTRH required its own frameworks rather than relying on general national government policies,” he said.

    The handover ceremony was attended by officials from the Kisumu County Public Service Board, including its chairperson Dr. James Obondi, board member Ruth Koga and Chief Executive Bill Omondi.

    With the PSC approval secured, the hospital will now engage the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) to finalize salary structures for staff, a key remaining step within the six-month transition window.

    Once implemented, the expanded workforce is expected to strengthen service delivery and support JOOTRH’s mandate as a centre of excellence in specialised healthcare under the Ministry of Health.

  • Trans Mara: Five guns and ammo surrendered amid 7-day amnesty

    Trans Mara: Five guns and ammo surrendered amid 7-day amnesty

    Five firearms and fourteen rounds of ammunition have been voluntarily surrendered in Trans Mara, marking a significant step as the Government intensifies efforts to end the clashes that have plagued the region.

    Speaking after a high-level security meeting at Siteti in Trans Mara South Sub-County, Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirmed the development and extended a seven-day olive branch, calling on individuals still in possession of illegal firearms to surrender them voluntarily.

    “I am pleased that since the President spoke yesterday, five illegal firearms and fourteen rounds of ammunition have been voluntarily surrendered,” he said, noting that the figure represents only a small fraction of the nearly 100 illegal firearms believed to be in circulation in the area.

    “We have extended a seven-day olive branch to individuals in possession of illegal firearms to voluntarily surrender them,” the Cabinet Secretary said, while confirming that a firm, intelligence-led operation will follow to stabilise the region.

    He added that the operation will be complemented by other government measures, including the recently gazetted 30-day night curfew, aimed at facilitating effective security operations and restoring lasting peace.

    The Cabinet Secretary also announced ongoing humanitarian support for affected families, noting that the Government, through the Department of Special Programmes, is mobilising resources to assist victims. The support includes the provision of building materials to help rebuild homes, food supplies, medication, and other assorted relief items.

    He further issued a stern warning to politicians and individuals inciting local communities, cautioning them against politicising the security situation and urging them to refrain from political interference in the ongoing operations.

    “We are aware of politicians and individuals who have been inciting civilians through social media and local media channels. Some have already been arrested, and we will pursue others. All those involved will be charged in a court of law,” he said.

    The meeting was attended by Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, alongside other senior security officials.

  • CMA approves three new online financial service platforms

    CMA approves three new online financial service platforms

    The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) has granted approval to Safaricom Plc and Airtel Money Kenya Limited to operate as Intermediary Service Platform Providers (ISPPs).

    CMA also licensed CC Kenya Securities Limited (trading as Capital.com) to operate as a Dealing Online Foreign Exchange Broker.

    The licensing of both Safaricom Plc and Airtel Money Kenya Limited to operate as an Intermediary Service Platform Providers is expected to enhance competition, expand investor choice and strengthen digital access to regulated capital markets products.

    A dealing broker is authorized to act as a principal and market maker in online foreign exchange trading, including opening client accounts, providing trading platforms, offering market information, monitoring positions, and issuing end-of-day reports in line with the Capital Markets (Online Foreign Exchange Trading) Regulations, 2017.

    CMA has so far licensed thirteen non-dealing online forex brokers, two dealing online forex brokers and three money managers. These approvals underscore the continued growth and institutional interest in Kenya’s regulated online forex trading ecosystem.

  • Former MP Enoch Kibunguchy dies

    Former MP Enoch Kibunguchy dies

    Former Likuyani Member of Parliament, Dr. Enoch Kibunguchy, has passed away early Tuesday morning while receiving treatment at hospital in Eldoret town.

    Dr. Kibunguchy succeeded Cyrus Jirongo as the Member of Parliament for Lugari Constituency following the 2002 General Election, serving one term from 2003 to 2007. After the 2007 elections, Jirongo reclaimed the Lugari seat.

    Several politicians eulogised him as devoted public servant.

    ‘Hon. Dr. Enoch Kibunguchy was a devoted public servant whose life was marked by humility, compassion and steadfast service, having distinguished himself both as a medical professional and as a legislator. During his tenure in the National Assembly, he was a diligent and principled Member who consistently championed the development agenda and the welfare of the people of Likuyani. His contribution to public life and to the advancement of healthcare and leadership in our region will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude. I convey my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the people of Likuyani and the wider Western Kenya region and I pray that the Almighty grants them strength and comfort as Dr. Enoch Kibunguchy rests in eternal peace.’ Moses Wetang’ula, National Assembly Speaker

    “Another tree has fallen. The larger Lugari has lost. We have been plunged into mourning again. Even before we lay to rest CJ, his successor in the 2002 general election Dr. Enoch Wamalwa Kibunguchy has rested. He would later serve the people of the newly created Likuyani Constituency for two consecutive terms (2013-2022). Sad day for the people of Lugari. Sad month for the people of Lugari. Sad year for the people of Lugari. Lugari has lost. Go well Mheshimiwa.” Philip Etale, ODM Communications Director

    “Dr. Kibunguchy was a dedicated public servant and a visionary leader who tirelessly served his people with commitment, humility, and patriotism, always striving for the development of Likuyani and a better Kenya. I fondly recall our recent interactions during the TAWE sensitization event in Likuyani, to which he graciously invited me. Those moments and engagements remain vivid and will be remembered with great respect. May his soul rest in eternal peace. I convey my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the people of Likuyani during this time of profound loss.” George Natembeya, Governor, Trans Nzoia County.

    “An accomplished professional, Obstetric Gynaecologist per excellence, who was my respected senior. MHSRIP’ Dr Boni Khalwale, Senator from Kakamega.

  • Afrobeats star Asake ‘devastated’ after fan dies in Kenya stadium crush

    Afrobeats star Asake ‘devastated’ after fan dies in Kenya stadium crush

    Nigerian Afrobeats star Asake has mourned a Kenyan fan who died following a crush at his concert at a stadium in Nairobi.

    The victim, 20-year-old Karen Lojore, was reportedly amid the long queues near a gate into the Nyayo National Stadium on Saturday. Delays in getting in were worsened by heavy rain, with other fans being injured.

    Family and friends of Ms Lojore have called for a full investigation and justice for her, with Kenyans on social media expressing their sympathies.

    In a statement posted on Instagram on Monday, Asake said he was “devastated by the tragic incident”. Kenyan police spokesman Michael Muchiri has termed the crush a “very unfortunate” incident.

    He told the BBC that the situation had been very serious but the police had worked to contain the crowds avert more deaths.

    He said “it looked like crowd control at the venue was not very ok” but said investigations would reveal what actually went wrong and help to avoid such tragedy in future.

    He said such an investigation would normally be concluded in a matter of weeks.

    In his statement, Asake said “my heart goes out to the family, friends and loved ones of Karen Lojore”, pledging to support efforts to “understand what happened”.

    He said music was always his “way of sharing love and joy” and “it breaks my heart that anyone had to experience such loss”.

    “Those responsible should be held accountable,” he added.

    In a social media post tagging the concert organisers as well as Asake, a woman believed to be Ms Lojore’s mother wrote: “What happened to my child? Why her? I want justice for my child.”

    The organisers of the event, Tukutane Entertainment, said they were working with the authorities to “understand what happened”.

    A journalist with Kenyan broadcaster Citizen TV, Immanuel Ndungu, who attended the concert, spoke on Instagram about problems with the stadium entrance, crowd control and how people were allowed in.

    Tukutane Entertainment has organised several big concerts in recent years, including shows by African music stars Tems, Rema, and Sauti Sol.

    The Nairobi stadium crush mirrors a show that Asake headlined at London’s Brixton Academy in 2022, which killed at least two people and seriously injured others.

    Asake, whose real name is Ahmed Ololade, is one of Nigeria’s leading Afrobeat stars who burst into the scene in 2022, with his debut album Mr. Money With the Vibe.

    He earned a nomination for the BBC Radio 1 Sound of 2023 Award, being hailed “as one of Nigeria’s hottest breakout stars”.

    He has since had other accolades and awards, including two Grammy nominations.

  • Trump says would be ‘smart’ for Venezuela’s Maduro to step down

    Trump says would be ‘smart’ for Venezuela’s Maduro to step down

    US President Donald Trump said Monday it would be “smart” for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to step down, as US naval forces pressed a blockade on the South American country’s oil wealth.

    Venezuela’s key ally Moscow, however, expressed its “full support” for Maduro’s government, as Washington has dialed up military operations and threats against Caracas.

    Asked by reporters at his Florida home if Washington’s threats were designed to force Maduro to leave office after 12 years, Trump said: “That’s up to him, what he wants to do. I think it would be smart for him to do that.”

    But he added: “If he wants to do something — if he plays tough, it’ll be the last time he’s ever able to play tough.”

    Firing back just hours later, Maduro said that Trump would be “better off” if he focused on his own country’s problems rather than threatening Caracas.

    “He would be better off in his own country on economic and social issues, and he would be better off in the world if he took care of his country’s affairs,” Maduro said in a speech broadcast on public television.

    The pledge from Moscow, which is embroiled in the war in Ukraine, came on the eve of a UN Security Council meeting Tuesday to discuss the mounting crisis.

    In a phone call, the foreign ministers of the allied nations blasted the US actions, which have included strikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats and the seizure of two oil tankers.

    A third ship was being pursued, a US official told AFP on Sunday.

    “The ministers expressed their deep concern over the escalation of Washington’s actions in the Caribbean Sea, which could have serious consequences for the region and threaten international shipping,” the Russian foreign ministry said of the call between Sergei Lavrov and Venezuelan counterpart Yvan Gil.

    “The Russian side reaffirmed its full support for and solidarity with the Venezuelan leadership and people in the current context,” it added in a statement.

    US forces have since September launched strikes on boats that Washington claims, without providing evidence, were trafficking drugs in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific Ocean.

    More than 100 people have been killed — some of them fishermen, according to their families and governments.

    US President Trump on December 16 also announced a blockade of “sanctioned oil vessels” sailing to and from Venezuela.

    Trump claims Caracas under Maduro is using oil money to finance “drug terrorism, human trafficking, murder and kidnapping.”

    He has also accused Venezuela of taking “all of our oil” — in an apparent reference to the country’s nationalization of the petroleum sector, and said: “we want it back.”

    Caracas, in turn, fears Washington is seeking regime change, and has accused Washington of “international piracy.”

    Moscow’s statement said Lavrov and Gil agreed in their call to “coordinate their actions on the international stage, particularly at the UN.”

    Russia and China, another Venezuela ally, backed Caracas’s request for a UNSC meeting to discuss what it called “the ongoing US aggression.”

    Russia’s ‘hands full’

    On Telegram, Venezuela’s Gil said he and Lavrov had discussed “the aggressions and flagrant violations of international law being perpetrated in the Caribbean: attacks on vessels, extrajudicial executions, and illicit acts of piracy carried out by the United States government.”

    Gil said Lavrov had affirmed Moscow’s “full support in the face of hostilities against our country.”

    Last week, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio brushed aside Moscow’s stated support for Caracas.

    Washington, he said, was “not concerned about an escalation with Russia with regards to Venezuela” as “they have their hands full in Ukraine.”

    US-Russia relations have soured in recent weeks as Trump has voiced frustration with Moscow over the lack of a resolution to the Ukraine war.

    Gil on Monday also read a letter on state TV, signed by Maduro and addressed to UN member nations, warning the US blockade “will affect the supply of oil and energy” globally.

  • Kenya reaffirms commitment to inclusive digital future

    Kenya reaffirms commitment to inclusive digital future

    Kenya has reiterated its commitment to a people-centred, inclusive information society, recognizing affordable and secure connectivity as essential to education, health, civic participation and economic growth.

    The commitment was made during the World Summit on Information Society (WSIS+20) High-Level Meeting, held from December 16th to 17th 2025, New York, USA, which brought together Member States, United Nations leadership and a wide range of stakeholders to review two decades of progress under the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) and to agree on priorities for advancing global digital cooperation.

    The summit called for accelerated action to address persistent digital divides and emphasized increased investment in digital infrastructure, strengthened digital skills, and the responsible governance of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and data ecosystems, in line with human rights and trust.

    In statement delivered at the High-Level Meeting of the United Nations General Assembly, ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo said Kenyan government had embarked on aggressive efforts to bridge the digital divide through aggressive expansion of broadband and mobile connectivity to remotest parts of the country, as well as the establishment of ICT hubs across the country.

    ‘‘Our Universal Service Fund has bridged urban-rural divides, ensuring access to mobile network services to the unserved and underserved populations. We are now extending this mission through digital hubs in every lowest administrative unit, 1,450 of them, connecting public offices to broadband, and catalyzing other aspects of our economy including education, justice and even the agricultural spheres,’’ said CS Kabogo in a statement delivered by Stephen Isaboke, the Principal Secretary, State Department for Broadcasting and Telecommunications.

    The CS added that Kenya continues to enhance digital skilling as well as gender equality, empowering women and girls in STEM, giving thousands of young people economic dignity online.

    Kenya, a co-facilitator alongside Albania, played a pivotal role throughout the WSIS+20 process.

    ‘‘Kenya leads with pride in ICT development. As co-facilitator of this review alongside Albania, we’ve steered dialogues on AI capacity building, digital public infrastructure, and cybersecurity frameworks that protect our children from online harms,’’ he added.

    Kenya has participated at a Partner2Connect side event, which seeks to mobilize global efforts and resources towards realization of meaningful connectivity, where the CS indicated the country had invested approximately USD 30.97 million in deployment of cellular mobile broadband infrastructure and services, as well as a further USD 38.72 million to national fibre optic infrastructure, laying over 8,000 kilometers of backbone network, through by the Universal Service Fund (USF).

    ‘‘These financial pledges underscore not only our proactive stance in realizing the meaningful connectivity agenda, but also our focus on access, affordability, quality, digital skills, and inclusive content, ensuring no one is left behind, especially women, youth, and persons with disabilities,’’ added the CS.

    Besides Mr. Isaboke, Kenya was represented in the meeting by Ambassador Ekitela Lokaale, Permanent Representative of Kenya to the United Nations, Amb. Philip Thigo, Special Envoy on Technology, and representatives from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), and the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs (MFA).

    The WSIS+20 outcome reinforces the multistakeholder model that has defined the WSIS process since its inception, underscoring collaboration among governments, the private sector, civil society, the technical community, and international organizations.

    It highlights also the importance of trustworthy digital governance, online safety and security, predictable policy environments, and sustained international cooperation, while elevating the role of the United Nations Internet Governance Forum (IGF) and strengthening WSIS follow-up and review mechanisms to sustain progress beyond the twenty-year review.

  • Africa Nazarene University’s triumph in Gambia signals a turning point for legal education in Kenya

    Africa Nazarene University’s triumph in Gambia signals a turning point for legal education in Kenya

    When two young women, Naomi Kathamba and Wilma Oneko, walked into the final round of the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Human Rights Moot Court Competition in Banjul on Wednesday, they carried far more than carefully prepared memorials.

    They carried the weight of a university that has spent years intentionally cultivating a culture of excellence in legal education. Their win on that international stage was no coincidence. It was the culmination of steady work, strategic mentorship, and a belief that Kenyan students can thrive anywhere in the world.

    Africa Nazarene University’s School of Law has quietly built a formidable reputation, one that is only now beginning to receive the recognition it deserves. The victory in Gambia is simply the latest and most visible confirmation of a trend that has been unfolding for years: Kenya is producing some of Africa’s strongest legal minds, trained locally, tested globally, and driven by purpose.

    The competition itself was no small affair. The final round of the sixth Edition of the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Human Rights Moot Court Competition brought together teams from across the continent to debate the increasingly urgent theme of climate change and human rights in Africa. Before a distinguished panel led by Hon. Patrick Gomez, the two finalists, ANU and the University of Benin from Nigeria, argued their cases with conviction. That the grand finale coincided with International Human Rights Day only deepened the symbolic weight of the moment.

    Naomi Kadhamba making her submission during the final

    Naomi and Wilma’s journey to that stage was marked by discipline and determination. After emerging as the top team during the internal selection rounds at ANU, they submitted written memorials that were ranked third among 23 African teams. This early success signaled that ANU was in Gambia not merely to participate but to compete seriously. By the time the semi-finals concluded on December 4, ANU had been ranked first, setting the stage for the December 10 showdown with Nigeria. Their performance was as compelling as it was confident.

    Their triumph came with more than just a trophy. Naomi was named Best Orator of the competition, a remarkable achievement in a field filled with strong advocates. The team received more than USD 1,800 as a reward for their win, and Naomi earned an additional USD 728 for her oratory distinction. Perhaps most significantly, both students secured fully paid six-month internships with the National Human Rights Commission of Gambia. These opportunities promise to shape their careers and broaden their global legal experience.

    For ANU, the pride in this victory was unmistakable. Prof. Lois Musikali, Dean of the School of Law, captured the sentiment succinctly when she said, “Congratulations are in order. It has been a good semester.” A good semester indeed, one built on years of quiet investment in structured training, internal competitions, mentoring and a culture where excellence is not organic but intentionally cultivated.

    Prof. Simon Obwatho, the Interim Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs, echoed this confidence, noting that ANU’s moot success has kept the university visible on the national and international map.

    Wilmer Oneko making her submission during the competition

    This victory fits into a larger arc of achievement. In just the past year, ANU has dominated the Supreme Court Moot Competition in Kenya, performed strongly at previous editions of the Jawara Moot, distinguished itself at the Daystar Media Moot, and demonstrated resilience across arbitration, mediation, environmental justice, human rights, and humanitarian law competitions around the region. These successes reflect an institution that takes practical legal training seriously, an approach that Kenya’s broader higher education sector would do well to emulate.

    At a time when universities are often criticised for producing graduates who are unprepared for real-world challenges, ANU’s moot court programme offers a compelling counter-narrative. It shows that legal education can be rigorous, global in outlook, and deeply empowering. What Naomi and Wilma represent is more than individual brilliance. They represent a university intentional about competence, a generation ready to argue human rights issues on any global platform, and a country reclaiming its rightful place as a leader in legal scholarship.

    Their win matters because it signals what is possible when talent meets opportunity. It underscores the idea that excellence in legal education is not the exclusive province of older or more established institutions. It can thrive in places where mentorship, vision, and resilience define the learning environment.

    In celebrating this victory, we celebrate possibility. Naomi and Wilma’s success in Gambia is a reminder that Kenyan students belong on the global stage, not someday but now. ANU has shown the continent what disciplined training and empowered students can achieve.

    Gambia has confirmed it.
    Kenya should take note.

    Dr Jackline Lidubwi is a media trainer and a lecturer in Mass Communication at the Africa Nazarene University.