Blog

Meru doctors off strike after signing deal with county government

Doctors in Meru County have called off their 45-day strike after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Meru County Government through the Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU).

Under the agreement, the county government has committed to addressing the doctors’ grievances, including implementing promotions, employing doctors on permanent and pensionable terms, and improving their working conditions.

The prolonged strike had severely disrupted healthcare services across the county, particularly in Level 4 and Level 5 hospitals, forcing many patients to seek treatment at private health facilities and in neighbouring counties.

July 17, 2026
China hits out at British Steel nationalisation

China has hit out at the nationalisation of British Steel, saying it “firmly opposes and is strongly dissatisfied with the British government’s decision”.

On Thursday, the UK government said that taking the loss-making firm into public hands would protect jobs and safeguard a “vital national capability”.

The UK took control of British Steel’s operations in Scunthorpe last year, though it was still owned by China’s Jingye Group, limiting the government’s ability to steer its future.

China’s commerce ministry said on Friday that the moves “seriously infringed upon Jingye’s legitimate rights and interests and severely undermined the confidence of Chinese companies investing in the UK”.

It also called on Britain to “faithfully fulfil” its obligations under the China–UK Bilateral Investment Treaty.

“Disregarding Jingye’s significant contribution to the UK economy and society, the British side forcibly took control of the company in the name of national security,” the ministry said.

The statement added that Beijing would monitor developments closely and support Chinese firms to protect their rights, but did not specify what protecting Chinese companies’ rights might involve.

The decision to nationalise British Steel threatens to strain the relationship between London and Beijing just as Andy Burnham is set to become the prime minister on Monday.

The incoming PM will have to weigh his approach to the issue with the economic benefits of ties with the world’s second largest economy.

The China-UK Bilateral Investment Treaty is a legally binding agreement that was signed in 1986. It was designed to promote and protect.

The nationalisation came after Parliament on Wednesday passed legislation allowing the government to bring the steel industry into public ownership under circumstances where it met a public interest test.

Jingye is seeking compensation, having previously said the business was losing £700,000 a day. The BBC has been unable to get a response from Jingye itself to Thursday’s announcement.

By taking British Steel into public ownership the government now has the power and freedom to decide on the future of the plant, while keeping the blast furnaces going.

It is unlikely the government will want to continue running the business in the long term as it is costing it more than a million pounds a day.

In March, the National Audit Office said the Scunthorpe steelworks was costing the government about £1.3m a day.

Business Secretary Peter Kyle told the BBC the government would need to cover the running costs “for the immediate future”.

If the plant stopped producing virgin steel, the UK would become the only member of the G7 group of leading economies without the ability to make it.

Steel output elsewhere in Britain relies on electric arc furnaces (EAFs), which recycle scrap metal to turn it into new products.

Although the government’s long-term strategy is for all domestically produced steel to come from EAFs, which are cheaper and much less carbon-intensive to run, it does not want to lose production at Scunthorpe yet.

The plant produces types of steel that are not yet made anywhere else in the country, much of it needed by Network Rail and the building industry.

The fear had been that losing this output would be disruptive and make the country too reliant on imports. So the decision was made that Scunthorpe should be kept open until alternatives are available.

British Steel was last under state ownership in 1988 when it was privatised under Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher’s government.

July 17, 2026
RLSD Africa 2026: Africa’s top 15 leather designers unveiled

Fifteen exceptional designers from six African countries have been unveiled as the Top 15 Finalists of the Real Leather. Stay Different. (RLSD) Africa Talent Leather Design Showcase 2026, marking another major milestone in one of the world’s leading competitions celebrating leather design, craftsmanship, sustainability, and innovation.

Selected from hundreds of registrations and high-quality submissions received from more than ten African countries, the finalists represent the very best of Africa’s emerging creative talent. Their concepts demonstrate not only artistic excellence but also practical innovation, commercial potential, cultural authenticity, and a deep commitment to responsible design.

The Real Leather. Stay Different. initiative celebrates leather’s beauty, versatility, strength, and durability while providing designers with a credible and structured platform to demonstrate originality, craftsmanship, and responsible production. Through the competition, participants gain a deeper appreciation of leather as a natural material derived from hides that are by-products of the meat and dairy industries, encouraging informed material choices and sustainable product development.

At the heart of the programme is a commitment to Slow Fashion. By challenging the wastefulness of fast fashion, RLSD encourages the creation of high-quality leather products designed to endure, be repaired, and remain valued for generations rather than being quickly discarded. This philosophy was clearly reflected in this year’s submissions, where durability, circular design, sustainability, and long-term value featured prominently across all categories.

The finalists were selected by an eminent panel of internationally respected judges, including Michael Redwood, one of the world’s foremost leather authorities whose distinguished career spans more than six decades. He was joined by Preston Viswamo (Lead Judge), Ruth Girmay, Jacqueline Shaw, Tezera Ketema, and Judy Ngotho, bringing together unparalleled expertise in leather science, manufacturing, product development, sustainability, fashion, and international trade.

Every submission underwent a rigorous evaluation based on five core criteria: Individuality, Conceptualisation, Relevance, Sustainability, and Commerciality. The result is a remarkable cohort of designers whose work reflects the diversity, ingenuity, and future potential of Africa’s leather industry.

The finalists come from Kenya, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Ethiopia, and Uganda, with each country contributing unique perspectives rooted in local heritage while embracing contemporary design and global market relevance.

Across the Apparel category, designers explored deeply personal and cultural narratives. Nigeria’s Clara Udegbe reimagined the ancient Igbo artistic language of Uli through contemporary leather craftsmanship in “ỌNỤ – Where Uli Finds a New Voice.” Fellow Nigerian Omosalewa Ogunjimi examined resilience and transformation through “Exuvia,” while Emeka Oguejiofor challenged environmental degradation with “Floating Lagos (Makoko),” turning reclaimed natural materials into high-end sustainable fashion. Ethiopia’s Misgana Setu celebrated Africa’s musical traditions through “Dress the Rhythm,” while Kenya’s Wambui Thiong’o explored personal growth and resilience in “Human Nature: The Becoming.”

The Accessories category showcased equally bold interpretations of culture, sustainability, and storytelling. Kuol Nyagoa transformed the organic elegance of the gourd and the symbolism of the matchbox into sculptural leather accessories in “From Nature to Flame.” Kamysha Martin blended music and craftsmanship in “NKS’D: Jazz,” while Kenya’s Millicent Wanza drew inspiration from landscape restoration in “Green Wall in Red.” Munyiva Musuva used the philosophy of Kintsugi to champion resilience and mental health awareness through the “Kintsugi Mamba Bag,” and Rwanda’s Umuhuza Hirwa Jeanluc celebrated cultural heritage through “INGABO: Shield Hobo,” inspired by the traditional Rwandan shield and royal drum.

The Footwear category highlighted Africa’s growing leadership in innovative product development. Zimbabwe’s Nompumelelo Marilyn Samambgwa impressed the judges with “Tethered Earth by Bu Kalanga,” combining architectural elegance with sustainable materials. Kenya’s Peter Kinyanjui celebrated Maasai heritage through “Adumu Jumpers – The Two-in-One African Heritage Sneakers,” while Uganda’s Atuhamize Yoram addressed road safety through the socially driven “Ride to Live Africa Safety Initiative.” Ethiopia’s Betelhem Kassaye Yeshitila preserved cultural memory with footwear inspired by the traditional Ankelba baby carrier, and Zimbabwe’s Owen Taruvinga completed the cohort with “Vandura Heritage Boot,” a powerful example of circular design that transforms discarded tyres and leather offcuts into durable heritage footwear.

Although inspired by different cultures, traditions, and lived experiences, the finalists are united by a common purpose: demonstrating that leather is one of the world’s most beautiful, versatile, durable, and sustainable materials for contemporary product design. Their projects explore themes as diverse as indigenous heritage, environmental conservation, music, architecture, mobility, personal resilience, mental health, the circular economy, safety, and luxury craftsmanship, illustrating the remarkable breadth of creativity emerging across the continent.

The unveiling of the Top 15 Finalists signals the beginning of an exciting new chapter. The designers will now enter the prototype development phase, where they will receive expert mentorship, technical guidance, and product development support to transform their concepts into fully functional, market-ready leather products

The journey will culminate in the selection of the RLSD Africa 2026 Most Commendable Designer, who will earn the honour of representing Africa at the global Real Leather.

Stay Different. finals in Bangkok, Thailand, competing against continental winners from around the world. The other category winners will be announced during the continental showcase in November this year.

While only fifteen designers could advance, the organisers have applauded every participant whose creativity and dedication contributed to making RLSD Africa 2026 one of the strongest editions in the competition’s history. Together, they have demonstrated that Africa is not only preserving its rich leather heritage but also redefining the future of global leather design through innovation, responsible production, and world-class craftsmanship.

As the competition advances, one message is unmistakable: Africa is no longer following global design trends, it is helping create them.

July 17, 2026
Push to have AI in senior school curriculum

Education stakeholders have urged the Ministry of Education to formally introduce Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a subject in secondary schools, saying it will equip learners with the knowledge and practical skills needed to compete in an increasingly technology-driven world.

They noted that as the world embraces the Fourth Industrial Revolution, AI is rapidly transforming industries, businesses and economies, making digital skills essential for future careers.

The call comes as more than 500 students from Pioneer Secondary School in Maragua Constituency, Murang’a County, graduated after successfully completing Artificial Intelligence training, making the institution one of the country’s pioneers in offering AI education at the senior school level.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony, the school’s Director, Dr. Peter Munga, said Pioneer School has remained committed to introducing innovative programmes that prepare learners for the changing demands of the global job market.

He said the school introduced AI training for Form Three and Form Four students to equip them with practical digital skills that will give them a competitive edge beyond the classroom.

Deputy Principal Simon Kung’u said AI is creating enormous career opportunities in areas such as software development, business, robotics, data analysis and the creative industry, adding that learners should be equipped early enough to take advantage of the emerging opportunities.

He said students undergo months of intensive training before sitting for a globally certified examination, where they are required to attain a minimum score of 70 percent to qualify for certification.

“So far, 13 students have earned internationally recognized AI certificates after surpassing the required pass mark, demonstrating the effectiveness of the programme,” he remarked.

Microsoft engineer and AI trainer Chege Warigia said the course introduces learners to coding, data analysis, problem-solving and the practical application of emerging technologies.

Warigia revealed that students have already developed a revision application to help them study science subjects, demonstrating how AI can be used to provide practical solutions to everyday challenges.

He attributed the programme’s success to hands-on learning and mentorship, expressing confidence that the graduates now possess foundational AI skills that will enhance their employability and innovation.

Besides AI, Dr. Munga said the school has also introduced Standards of Training, Certification and Watch keeping (STCW) courses and Marine Studies to prepare students for careers in the global maritime industry.

Students enrolled in the maritime programme were awarded certificates and passports issued through the Kenya Maritime Authority, opening opportunities to pursue careers in international shipping and related sectors.

Engineer Titus Kiprotich encouraged learners to embrace marine studies, noting that the industry offers diverse career opportunities ranging from marine engineering and navigation to maritime security, which could help address youth unemployment.

Meanwhile, as candidates prepare for this year’s national examinations, Deputy Principal Simon Kung’u appealed to parents to uphold integrity during the examination period.

He warned against facilitating examination malpractice by providing learners with mobile phones or other gadgets used to access leaked examination materials, saying such actions undermine the credibility of national examinations.

Kung’u urged parents, teachers and candidates to work together to ensure the examinations are conducted honestly and fairly.

July 17, 2026
WHO: Up to 45pc of Dementia risk can be prevented

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released updated guidelines on reducing the risk of cognitive decline and dementia, providing countries with evidence-based recommendations to help prevent or delay the onset of dementia across the life course.

Dementia is a condition caused by brain diseases and affects memory, thinking and the ability to function. More than 57 million people live with dementia worldwide and nearly 10 million people get newly diagnosed every year. Alzheimer disease is the most common form of dementia and is estimated to account for 60–70% of cases.

While there is no cure for dementia, up to 45% of the risks can be attributed to modifiable risk factors such as tobacco, alcohol use, social isolation, physical inactivity, air pollution and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including high blood pressure and diabetes. Beyond health, dementia affects a person’s independence, dignity and safety.

“We know more today than ever before about what drives dementia risk, and these guidelines translate that knowledge into action,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “Countries now have clear, evidence-based recommendations they can put into practice immediately to protect people’s cognitive health.”

WHO’s new guidelines reflect the latest evidence and innovations in dementia risk reduction providing proven interventions that can effectively lower dementia risk through early awareness and timely action. They represent an important opportunity to reduce the burden of dementia in the coming decades through stronger integration of services for noncommunicable diseases, mental health and brain health.

Reducing risk, preventing illness

The updated guidelines reflect significant growth in the evidence base since WHO first issued recommendations on dementia risk reduction in 2019. They provide consolidated recommendations on addressing unhealthy behaviours, managing medical conditions, and reducing exposure to environmental factors that may contribute to cognitive decline and dementia.

The guidelines recommend several healthy behaviours and lifestyle interventions to reduce dementia risk, including cognitive training and cognitive stimulation and engagement in social activities for adults who have normal cognition or are experiencing mild cognitive impairment.

The updated advice also includes interventions that reduce risk of NCDs, including increasing physical activity, stopping tobacco use, reducing alcohol consumption, adopting a healthy diet, and a new recommendation to reduce exposure to air pollution.

Management of cardiometabolic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol can also help reduce dementia risk. Further, hearing aids may be offered as part of risk-reduction strategies.

As an intervention to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and/or dementia, the guidelines do not recommend supplementation with vitamins B and E, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and multivitamins/minerals in the absence of a diagnosed deficiency, due to the lack of evidence of any potential benefits to outweigh unexpected harmful effects.

Human and economic cost

Dementia affects an individual’s ability to live independently, work and function, while placing substantial burdens on families and carers. It carries a major economic loss, costing the global economy an estimated US$ 1.3 trillion annually. About half of this cost is driven by unpaid care provided by families and friends. Understanding risk factors and taking action to prevent dementia can improve health and quality of life, helping people live longer, healthier and more independent lives.

July 17, 2026
WHO warns DR Congo Ebola outbreak is outpacing response as Uganda reaches milestone

The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has become the third largest on record and is spreading faster than any previous one during the first month of exposure, the head of the World Health Organization (WHO) warned on Thursday.

Addressing reporters in Geneva, WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the two month-old outbreak has continued to expand despite major efforts by the Government, WHO, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and other partners.

“So far, 2,273 cases have been reported, with 796 deaths,” he said. “By comparison, the 2018–2019 Ebola outbreak in DRC took more than 10 months to reach 2,000 confirmed cases.”

Transmission still accelerating

Tedros said intense transmission in Ituri province in DRC’s restive eastern region remains WHO’s biggest concern.

More than 80 per cent of new infections are being detected outside known contact lists, indicating that transmission chains are continuing undetected, while about two-thirds of deaths occur in communities among people who never receive treatment in a health facility.

“Despite the progress we have made, the outbreak in DRC is continuing to outpace the response,” he warned.

Active armed conflict is also hampering operations. Dr Tedros noted that an Ebola treatment centre in Bunia was attacked on Wednesday, further complicating efforts to reach affected communities.

‘This disease can be survived’

Treatment capacity has grown to more than 800 beds, laboratory capacity has increased from one laboratory to 16, and contact follow-up rates have risen to almost 80 per cent. More than 21,000 community health workers are being trained, while safe and dignified burials have also improved.

The Director-General highlighted encouraging progress in research and therapeutics, but even without approved vaccines or treatments, 377 people have recovered from the disease.

“With early diagnosis and safe care, this disease can be survived and stopped,” Tedros said.

Uganda milestone

In neighbouring Uganda, however, WHO reported encouraging progress.

The country’s last confirmed Ebola patient was discharged from care on Thursday after testing negative for the virus twice, marking the start of the 42-day countdown before the outbreak can officially be declared over.

Uganda has reported 20 confirmed cases and two deaths since declaring its outbreak on 15 May. Fifteen infections were linked to importation from the DRC, while five resulted from local transmission.

WHO Representative Dr Kasonde Mwinga said the figures reflected the commitment of Uganda’s health workers, communities and partners, but warned the country remains at risk.

Funding gap threatens response

Tedros stressed that containing the outbreak will require stronger political backing as well as financial support.

WHO’s joint continental preparedness and response plan with Africa CDC still faces a funding gap of more than $400 million.

“We urge donors to fill this gap and to help us control this outbreak as quickly as possible,” he said.

“This is not charity. It’s an investment in national security.”

The UN Children’s Fund, UNICEF, has also appealed for additional resources, warning this week that only 25 per cent of the funding required for its Ebola response is currently available.

During a visit to Ituri, UNICEF Regional Director Gilles Fagninou said the epidemic could still be contained if governments, communities and humanitarian partners acted more quickly and collectively.

“We know how to stop this epidemic,” Mr. Fagninou said. “The challenge is not the lack of solutions, but the lack of funding to deploy them at the scale needed.”

July 17, 2026
Government expands ANITRAC rollout to boost livestock exports

The Government has stepped up the nationwide rollout of the Animal Identification and Traceability (ANITRAC) system, with Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe leading a livestock sensitization and tagging exercise in Kurawa, Tana River County.

This following the national launch of the programme in Nyeri that was held on Wednesday 8th July 2026.

The CS who was accompanied by Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana and officials from the directorate of veterinary services, engaged livestock farmers and local leaders on the critical role ANITRAC will play in transforming Kenya’s livestock sector into a globally competitive industry.

He said ANITRAC is more than a livestock tagging exercise, it is the foundation of a modern livestock economy where every registered animal receives a unique digital identity that guarantees traceability from source to market.

The CS noted that today’s international meat trade is increasingly driven by traceability, with buyers demanding proof of an animal’s origin, movement history and health status before products can access premium export markets.

He urged farmers to fully cooperate with the ongoing registration exercise, saying the Government is taking deliberate steps to unlock lucrative markets in Europe, the Middle East and other international destinations, but success will depend on Kenya’s ability to demonstrate credible livestock identification and traceability that meets global standards.

CS Kagwe noted that Kenya is home to an estimated 77 million livestock, making the sector one of the country’s most strategic economic pillars. Livestock contributes about 12% of Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and approximately 40% of the agricultural GDP, while supporting the livelihoods of millions of Kenyans, particularly in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs).

He emphasized that ANITRAC will strengthen disease surveillance and control, reduce livestock theft, improve food safety, restore consumer confidence and increase the value of Kenyan livestock and livestock products in both local and international markets.

The CS further highlighted that the ANITRAC ear tags and electronic identification chips are manufactured locally, creating jobs, supporting local industries and demonstrating Kenya’s growing capacity to produce world-class agricultural technologies.

He also pointed to the Government’s investment in the newly established Kenya Leather Industrial Parks, saying the facilities are central to ensuring that Kenya exports value-added leather products rather than raw hides and skins.

CS Kagwe said the Government’s vision is to transform livestock from a traditional livelihood into a modern commercial enterprise that creates wealth, drives industrialization and positions Kenya as a trusted supplier of safe, traceable and high-quality livestock products.

The nationwide rollout of ANITRAC will continue across all counties as the Government accelerates livestock registration, strengthens animal health systems and lays the foundation for expanded market access, increased farmer incomes and a more resilient livestock sector.

July 17, 2026
Fan-powered initiative launched to boost Gor Mahia’s CAF bid

As record Kenyan Premier League champions Gor Mahia intensifies preparations for the CAF Champions League return, fans have the opportunity to financially support the club trough a first-of-its-kind initiative dubbed Wallcover K’Ogalo Edition unveiled by sponsors Kansai Plascon Kenya.

Gor, who reclaimed the Football Kenya Federation Premier League title will represent the country in the continent’s top club football 2026/27 season when the preliminary round kicks-off in September.

Kansai Plascon Kenya will dedicate a percentage of the proceeds from every sale of the Wallcover K’Ogalo Edition to support Gor Mahia FC’s continental campaign.

Every purchase made by fans will directly contribute towards the club’s participation in the upcoming CAF Championship, enabling supporters to play an active role in Gor Mahia’s journey on the continental stage.

The initiative marks a new chapter in sports sponsorship by extending corporate support beyond traditional partnerships and inviting supporters to play a tangible role in the club’s journey on the continental stage.

The limited-edition Plascon Trade Wall Cover Emulsion – K’Ogalo Edition has been created to celebrate K’Ogalo’s triumphant 2025–2026 FKF Premier League title-winning season while reaffirming Kansai Plascon Kenya’s long-term commitment to the growth of Kenyan football.

Speaking during the unveiling, Enami Kota, Managing Director, Kansai Plascon Kenya, said:

“Our partnership with Gor Mahia has always been about more than sponsorship. It is about investing in a legacy that inspires millions of Kenyans. This initiative allows supporters to celebrate the club’s achievements while directly contributing towards its future as the team prepares to fly the Kenyan flag in the CAF Championship. We believe corporate partnerships should create meaningful impact beyond branding.”

Gor Mahia chairman Ambrose Rachier, welcomed the initiative, saying:

“This partnership reflects what modern football requires—long-term collaboration built on shared ambition. Kansai Plascon has stood with us as partners, and this latest initiative demonstrates a genuine commitment to supporting the club beyond the football pitch. Every supporter who purchases the K’Ogalo Edition becomes part of our journey as we prepare to compete on the continental stage.”

Rather than simply commemorating the club’s latest success, the campaign transforms everyday purchases into an opportunity for Kenyans to contribute towards one of the country’s most successful football clubs as it prepares to represent Kenya in continental competition.

Designed as a collector’s edition, the commemorative packaging incorporates Gor Mahia’s iconic identity, championship-inspired graphics, and visual elements celebrating one of Kenya’s most decorated football clubs.

The campaign is anchored on the theme “Champions on the Pitch. Champions in Every Home.” It celebrates not only sporting excellence but also the power of partnerships, community pride and the role football continue to play in uniting millions of Kenyans.

July 17, 2026
Kenya, Grenada strengthen diplomatic ties with appointment of Honorary Consul

Kenya and Grenada have taken another step towards strengthening diplomatic and economic relations following the appointment of Kamal Shaileshbhai Shah as the Honorary Consul of Grenada to Kenya.

His appointment follows the meeting between President William Ruto and Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell of Grenada during the Africa–CARICOM Summit held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in September 2025.

The discussions at the Summit underscored the importance of strengthening cooperation between African and Caribbean nations through enhanced political dialogue, trade, investment, and cultural exchange.

Speaking when he received his credentials in Nairobi, Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi noted that Shah’s appointment reflects the confidence placed in Kenyan leadership and expertise to strengthen relations between our two countries.

“Grenada and Kenya share common aspirations for sustainable development, economic transformation, and international cooperation. The appointment of Shah reflects a mutual commitment to building enduring partnerships that will generate tangible benefits for the people of both nations,” noted Mudavadi.

The two leaders held discussions on expanding cooperation in trade and investment, tourism, education, financial services, climate resilience, the blue economy, agriculture and renewable energy.

“These partnerships have the potential to unlock new markets for Kenyan businesses, attract investment, create jobs and deepen people-to-people exchanges,” Mudavadi said.

Mudavadi said that as Honorary Consul, Shah will play a pivotal role in advancing bilateral relations between Grenada and Kenya and facilitating collaboration across a range of strategic sectors.

“Particular emphasis will be placed on trade and investment promotion, financial technology (FinTech) and digital innovation, climate action and environmental sustainability, tourism development and cultural exchange, energy cooperation, with special focus on geothermal energy and agriculture and food security initiatives,” CS added.

The establishment of the Honorary Consulate in Kenya is expected to create new opportunities for partnership between the public and private sectors of both countries, while fostering stronger links between Africa and the Caribbean.

The Government expressed its commitment to working closely with the Government of Grenada, the Honorary Consulate and other stakeholders to unlock new opportunities for investment, innovation and economic cooperation for the benefit of both countries.

July 17, 2026
DCI, Marici Kenya partner to combat child trafficking

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and Marici Kenya have a signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen efforts to combat child trafficking and exploitation.

According to a statement, the MoU, signed by the Director DCI Mohamed Amin and Marici Kenya CEO Benson Shamala, marks a significant step in enhancing the fight against child sexual exploitation and trafficking through stronger collaboration.

The partnership will focus on capacity building, community engagement, survivor-centred support, and coordinated responses to emerging threats facing children. It also seeks to strengthen investigations, institutional capacity, public awareness, and child protection systems.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Amin reaffirmed the DCI’s unwavering commitment to protecting children, describing the partnership as a critical milestone in safeguarding vulnerable children and ensuring perpetrators are brought to justice.

Shamala noted that the MoU reflects a shared commitment to strengthening child protection systems, supporting survivors, and ensuring they receive the care and justice they deserve.

Marici Kenya is a child protection organisation that aims to prevent and tackle child sexual exploitation and trafficking.

The organisation supports investigations, strengthens institutional capabilities, raises community awareness, and promotes survivor-centred interventions

Together, the DCI and Marici Kenya will leverage their expertise to prevent child exploitation, protect vulnerable children, and reinforce a coordinated national response against child trafficking and abuse.

July 17, 2026