Denis Mwangi

LinkedIn

<p>President William Ruto has announced an ambitious national blueprint aimed at transforming Kenya from a developing country into a First World economy within a generation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Delivering his State of the Nation Address to Parliament on November 20, 2025, he said Kenya must now “choose ambition over fear” and abandon the “false comfort of low expectations.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He argued that the country has the talent, resources, and potential to match former peers such as South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong, nations that rose from poverty to global industrial powerhouses through discipline and long-term vision.</p>

MPs during President William Ruto's State of the Nation Address in Parliament

<h3>Four pillars of the First World plan</h3>

<h3>1. Massive investment in people, innovation and scientific training</h3>

<p>President Ruto said Kenya must invest aggressively in education, STEM skills, research and innovation if it is to become a globally competitive economy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He announced the creation of a dedicated State Department for Science, Research and Innovation and a plan to raise research funding from the current 0.8% to 2% of GDP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He projected that a national research fund worth Sh1 trillion over 10 years would support innovation, commercialise Kenyan ideas and build a new generation of engineers, scientists and technology leaders.</p>

<h3>2. Turning Kenya into a net exporter through irrigation and agro-industrialisation</h3>

<p>The president said Kenya cannot continue relying on rain-fed agriculture, noting that only 15% of the country receives adequate rainfall.&nbsp;</p>

President William Ruto during the State of the Nation Address in Parliament

<p>He unveiled a nationwide irrigation programme that includes building 50 mega dams, 200 medium and small dams, and thousands of micro-dams to bring at least 2.5 million acres under irrigation within seven years.</p>

<p>He said irrigation will feed county aggregation parks, EPZs and SEZs, allowing Kenya to replace expensive imports such as maize, sugar, rice, wheat and edible oil, which currently cost the country Sh500 billion annually.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Agro-industrialisation, he said, will be the backbone of future exports.</p>

<p>3. Generating 10,000MW of new power within seven years</p>

<p>Ruto said the energy sector is central to Kenya’s industrial ambitions, noting that although Kenya’s installed capacity is 3,300MW, only 2,300MW is firm due to the intermittence of solar and wind.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He announced a plan to generate an additional 10,000MW through geothermal, solar, wind, hydro and eventually nuclear sources.</p>

<p>He said modern industries, data centres, artificial intelligence infrastructure, electric mobility and large-scale manufacturing all require reliable, abundant and affordable electricity.</p>

<h3>4. Transforming transport and logistics nationwide</h3>

<p>President Ruto said transport infrastructure remains the backbone of national competitiveness. He revealed that 2,500km of highways have been mapped for dualing and 28,000km for tarmacking over the next decade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He confirmed that JKIA, the Port of Mombasa and the Port of Lamu will undergo modernisation through PPP arrangements.</p>

<p>He also announced that the Standard Gauge Railway will be extended from Naivasha to Kisumu starting in January 2026, before pushing onward to Malaba.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said the Rironi–Naivasha–Nakuru–Mau Summit dualing will be launched next week, alongside the dualing of Rironi–Maai Mahiu–Naivasha.</p>

<p>President Ruto said the four national priorities will require at least Sh5 trillion, which he described as “large, but necessary.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>To finance them sustainably, he announced the creation of the National Infrastructure Fund and the Sovereign Wealth Fund.</p>

<p>The National Infrastructure Fund will channel all privatisation proceeds exclusively into new infrastructure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ruto said these funds will no longer be absorbed into recurrent budgets but reinvested into long-term national assets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He projected that every shilling from privatisation could attract ten shillings from global investors through capital markets, pension funds, sovereign partners and development financiers.</p>

<p>The Sovereign Wealth Fund will store a portion of revenues from natural resources and privatisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will be guided by three pillars: savings for future generations, stabilisation during global shocks and commercial investment in national projects.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The President said this prevents future losses like those seen after titanium deposits at the Coast were depleted without structured benefits for future generations.</p>

<p>President Ruto closed his address by urging the country to embrace a higher level of ambition, saying the proposed blueprint represents a turning point for Kenya’s long-term development.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He positioned the plan as a generational assignment that requires unity, discipline and sustained focus from leaders and citizens alike.</p>

<p>He argued that the decisions made today will shape the quality of life, economic stability and global standing of future generations.</p>

<p>Ruto emphasised that Kenya now stands at a pivotal moment, with an opportunity to break historical cycles of underinvestment and unlock the country’s full potential.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said the roadmap he presented is designed to set the foundation for a more prosperous, secure and globally competitive nation, and that its success will depend on the collective resolve to follow through.</p>

<p>The President concluded by stating that the path ahead may be demanding, but the country has the capacity and resilience to deliver on this vision and secure a First World future for Kenya.</p>

President William Ruto has unveiled a blueprint aimed at propelling Kenya into First World

Ruto's Sh5 trillion 4-point blueprint to push Kenya into the First World status

<p>Hiram Gitau gave a deeply emotional tribute during the burial of his wife, gospel singer Betty Bayo, where he spoke about the silence, pain and void left in their home since her death.</p>

<p>Addressing mourners, Gitau said the house now &ldquo;echoes with a heavy, profound quiet&rdquo; where his wife&rsquo;s laughter once filled their lives. He described his grief as &ldquo;a new raw footprint, a landscape of loss shaped entirely by your absence.&rdquo;</p>

<p>He said losing his wife felt like losing the compass by which he navigated the world. &ldquo;I find myself turning to share a thought with you only to find empty space. I reach for you in the night and find cold sheets,&rdquo; he said.</p>

<p>Gitau remembered the small rituals of their marriage, shared glances over their children&rsquo;s heads, late-night conversations and even simple skin-care routines together, saying these memories now &ldquo;ache with intensity.&rdquo;</p>

<p>Despite the heartbreak, he assured mourners that his greatest commitment now is to their children, Sky and Dani, whom he called their &ldquo;living legacy&rdquo; and &ldquo;the most precious pieces&rdquo; of their mother still on earth.</p>

<p>&ldquo;My commitment to our children is now the very axis of my life,&rdquo; he said. He promised to respect their decisions, protect their hearts and ensure they never doubt that they are loved. &ldquo;The love you poured into them will now flow through me, doubled in its intensity.&rdquo;</p>

<p>Gitau also pledged to take care of his mother-in-law and maintain the strong family bonds Betty nurtured. He noted that she always united their families at Christmas, and he vowed that the tradition would not fade. &ldquo;Sky and Dani will help me keep that bond alive,&rdquo; he said.</p>

<p>He remembered that Betty&rsquo;s birthday was just days away on 24 November, promising that her family would continue honouring her life every year.</p>

<p>In closing, Gitau said he was &ldquo;shattered but not broken,&rdquo; and thanked God for the years he shared with his wife. He told mourners that although it is hard to accept God&rsquo;s will, perhaps &ldquo;He did not want her to suffer in this cruel and unforgiving world.&rdquo;</p>

<p>&ldquo;Rest now, my beautiful wife,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Your watch has ended. Mine continues, fuelled by a love that not even death can dim. Watch over us until I can hold you again. Rest with the angels till we meet again.&rdquo;</p>

<p>The tribute was followed by applause from mourners, including clergy, close friends and public figures who attended the emotional send-off.</p>

<p>Pastor Victor Kanyari also moved mourners to tears as he read a heartfelt tribute to the mother of his children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cleric reflected on their early relationship, their shared struggles, and the family they built before going their separate ways.</p>

<p>Kanyari said he first met Betty 13 years ago &ldquo;in the middle of our daily Nairobi hustle,&rdquo; describing her as a shy, ever-smiling young woman whose gentleness could calm even the busiest days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He told mourners they connected instantly and, within weeks, struggled to imagine life apart.</p>

<p>He recalled their frequent visits, long conversations about dreams and ambitions, and their humble beginnings in the small, warm home where Betty lived.&nbsp;</p>

<p><i>“Even then, I could already see the big dream in your eyes,” </i>he said.</p>

<p>Kanyari said their relationship progressed quickly and naturally. “<i>I was looking for a wife, a companion, a partner and a dreamer,”</i> he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><i>“Within months, we were already living as husband and wife.” </i>The couple welcomed their first child soon after, a moment he said made life suddenly serious, as they stepped into parenthood together. They later became parents of two.</p>

<p>Reflecting on their children, he noted how much of Betty lives in them.</p>

<p><i>&nbsp;“I see your face in our daughter’s beauty and your spirit in her gentle way,”</i> he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that their son carries his own boldness but also his mother&rsquo;s warmth and humour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kanyari also apologised publicly for the hardships Betty endured during the controversies that surrounded their past.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&ldquo;I&rsquo;m truly sorry that my brand, my name and my drama put you through difficult moments,&rdquo; he said. Despite the turbulence, he praised her for never poisoning their children&rsquo;s hearts against him or denying them a father.</p>

<p>He remembered moments when both of them trended online years ago, saying each had their own story to tell.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He admired her resilience, saying she overcame challenges with strength and even joked about how her brand grew bigger despite the scandals.</p>

<p>&ldquo;Betty, you were a hardworking woman, a forgiving soul, a loving mother and a true friend,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;You loved God with all your heart. You built your life with grace and raised our children with humility.&rdquo;</p>

<p>He expressed regret that he may have failed her in some ways, but he stressed that she would forever remain in their hearts, and he would not fail their children.&nbsp;</p>

A collage of Hiram Gitau and Victor Kanyari during Betty Bayo's funeral

The burial of gospel singer Betty Bayo turned emotional as both her husband and ex-husband delivered moving tributes honouring her memory.

How Betty Bayo's children, husband's tribute, Kanyari apology marked her farewell

<p>President William Ruto has said the government’s next phase of tax reforms will focus on expanding the tax base fairly by bringing more Kenyans and businesses into compliance without burdening those who already pay.</p>

<p>Speaking at the annual Taxpayers’ Dinner at State House, Nairobi, Ruto said fairness must anchor the government’s revenue strategy as Kenya seeks to strengthen public services, seal leakages, and reduce pressure on compliant taxpayers.</p>

<p>Ruto said the biggest imbalance in Kenya’s tax system is the “deep gap” between the small group that pays and the millions who remain outside the tax net.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the President, three million Kenyans in formal employment contribute about Sh600 billion annually, while 17 million registered taxpayers contribute only Sh17 billion.&nbsp;</p>

President William Ruto speaking at the Taxpayes Dinner at State House, Nairobi

<p>He described this as a structural gap the government intends to close through simplified processes, better support and respect for small taxpayers.</p>

<h3>MSMEs “an opportunity, not a burden”</h3>

<p>Ruto highlighted micro, small and medium enterprises as the country’s largest untapped revenue segment.</p>

<p>Although MSMEs contribute 33% of Kenya’s GDP and employ close to 15 million people, they account for just 1% of tax revenue.</p>

<p>To change this, the Kenya Revenue Authority has created a new Micro and Small Taxpayers Department to serve the 1.2 million MSMEs currently in the tax base and onboard an additional five million.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The President said the unit will offer personalised support, simpler compliance steps and technology-driven tools to make tax payment easier.</p>

<p><i>“This new department will help expand our tax base, ensuring everyone shares the responsibility of nation-building,”</i> he said.</p>

KRA Chairperson Ndiritu Muriithi speaking at the Taxpayes Dinner at State House, Nairobi

<h3>Digital systems to make compliance easier</h3>

<p>Ruto said the government is now relying heavily on technology to widen compliance fairly rather than through “pressure or punishment”.</p>

<ul><li><p>KRA services integrated into eCitizen, reducing compliance time for individuals and MSMEs by more than 40%. </p></li><li><p>Over 1,000 developers are building applications on the state API ecosystem, Gava Connect. </p></li><li><p>AI-powered risk engines are being piloted within customs and domestic tax systems. </p></li><li><p>A record Sh85 billion in customs revenue was collected last month. </p></li><li><p>Domestic VAT rising from Sh20 billion in 2021/22 to Sh28 billion this year. </p></li><li><p>A new electronic rental income tax system targeting Sh80 billion annually, up from the current Sh14 billion. </p></li><li><p>KRA services are now available through WhatsApp and USSD, making payments accessible to more Kenyans.</p></li></ul>

<p><i>“This is more than technology. It is a government that listens, responds and serves,”</i> he said.</p>

<h3>“Every shilling must show value”</h3>

<p>The President said expanding the tax base fairly is only one part of the reform agenda. He added that taxpayers must also see visible results from every shilling collected.</p>

<p>He said fiscal reforms now underway aim to seal leakages, cut wasteful spending and redirect resources to projects with the highest social and economic return, including education, healthcare and infrastructure.</p>

<p>Ruto acknowledged ongoing economic pressures linked to shifting global trade, climate impacts and fiscal constraints, but said Kenya had posted a 9.1% revenue increase in the second half of the last financial year, signalling resilience.</p>

<p><i>“Our success is not measured by revenue targets but by transformed lives, a job for a young person, a market for a farmer, growth for a business,”</i> he said.</p>

Treasury CS John Mbadi speaking at the Taxpayes Dinner at State House, Nairobi

<p>Ruto praised KRA for what he called a “phenomenal” performance and pledged continued government support, including increased funding to modernise operations and improve compliance services.</p>

<p>He said fairness, respect and integrity must define Kenya’s tax culture going forward.</p>

<p><i>“Nation-building depends on a simple partnership: citizens who contribute and institutions that serve with integrity,”</i> Ruto said. </p>

<p>He also called on more Kenyans to join the tax net as the country marks 30 years of KRA and 20 years of Taxpayers’ Day.</p>

Ruto has announced sweeping tax reforms aimed at expanding the tax base fairly by easing compliance for millions outside the system.

Ruto signals major shifts in government’s next phase of tax reforms

<p>President William Ruto will address the nation from Parliament on November 20, and Kenyans are waiting for straight answers on the issues that have shaped daily life over the past two years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From stalled roads and school fees to insecurity and unemployment, the expectations around this year&rsquo;s State of the Nation Address are unusually high.</p>

<p>Infrastructure is expected to feature prominently. The government has been pushing the message that hundreds of stalled road projects are finally back on track after a major effort to clear outstanding contractor payments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the last financial year, road agencies completed more than 760 kilometres of roads, far above their annual target. Ruto is also likely to promote the National Infrastructure Fund, which State House has positioned as a long-term fix for the country&rsquo;s stop–start project cycle.&nbsp;</p>

President William Ruto speaking at State House

<p>The President has repeatedly defended the use of NSSF pension contributions for infrastructure, insisting it is a safe and profitable investment for savers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, many Kenyans still want clarity on why so many roads remain incomplete, whether pension funds are adequately protected, and when new infrastructure will begin to reduce transport and food costs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Any mention of toll roads or new user charges is expected to provoke immediate public reaction.</p>

<p>Education is another sector that will draw intense scrutiny. From September 1 2025, public universities are expected to implement reduced fees under a revised funding model, which the government has described as historic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ruto is also likely to highlight the recruitment of more teachers and increased investment in classrooms and laboratories as the Competency-Based Curriculum continues to grow. But parents and students want more than policy statements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They expect answers on the confusion surrounding the new funding model, the slow disbursement of scholarships and loans, persistent teacher shortages and the overcrowding that continues to plague many public schools.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For many families, the key question is when lower fees and better learning conditions will be felt on the ground.</p>

<p>Security concerns will also dominate public expectations. The government is expected to report progress under Operation Maliza Uhalifu, claiming that bandit attacks in the North Rift have reduced and that schools in affected areas have reopened.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In urban centres, the administration will likely point to crackdowns on gangs such as Kamjesh, Confirm, Wakali Kwanza and Wakali Wao, supported by digital policing tools and stronger community policing networks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even so, Kenyans want the President to confront the issues that have shaken national confidence: police brutality during the 2024 and June 2025 protests, the use of anti-terror charges against youthful protesters and rising cases of gender-based violence.</p>

<p>Many will be listening for concrete reforms that address abuse, improve crowd control and strengthen accountability.</p>

<p>Youth and jobs remain central concerns. While the government points to signs of economic recovery, many young people still struggle to find stable employment and rely heavily on informal gigs.</p>

<p>The President is expected to highlight the NYOTA programme, which the government describes as the largest youth empowerment initiative in Kenya&rsquo;s history.</p>

<p>It targets nearly one million young people with vocational training, savings schemes and seed capital, with special focus on teen mothers, youth in informal settlements and those in refugee communities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But young Kenyans want evidence that these programmes are working. They expect the President to give clear data on how many youths have benefited and how much money has actually been disbursed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The state of the economy will be another critical theme. Ruto is likely to highlight improved macroeconomic indicators, including inflation averaging between four and five per cent, a lower Central Bank Rate and a projected GDP growth rate above five per cent.&nbsp;</p>

President William Ruto speaking during a development tour in Busia

<p>However, many Kenyans argue that the numbers do not reflect the reality they live. Food prices, rent, school-related expenses and transport costs remain high, even in periods of &ldquo;moderate inflation&rdquo;.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As a result, the public will expect the address to explain how the government intends to make macroeconomic indicators translate to the common mwananchi, how to manage debt and economic stability.</p>

<p>Governance and accountability are also likely to feature. The President is expected to highlight ongoing anti-corruption efforts, the expansion of digital government services through eCitizen and attempts to reduce wastage in the public sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yet Kenyans will be looking for specifics rather than broad commitments. They want to see evidence of completed investigations, money recovered, and action taken against officials accused of misusing public funds.</p>

<p>As D Day approaches, the overall expectation is that the State of the Nation Address should move beyond policy language and provide clear commitments, timelines and solutions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For many Kenyans, the address will be judged by how directly it confronts the issues that continue to define everyday life: rising costs, insecurity, education challenges and the struggle for stable work.&nbsp;</p>

President William Ruto during his State of the Nation Address in Parliament

All eyes are on President William Ruto as he prepares to deliver a State of the Nation Address that Kenyans hope will finally confront the pressures shaping their daily lives.

What Kenyans expect in Ruto’s state of the nation address

<p>Blankets &amp; Wine has released the full artist roster for the Kenyan Summer 2025 edition, scheduled for 21 December 2025 at Laureate Gardens, Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This year’s focus is firmly on the performers, with organisers unveiling one of the event’s most extensive line-ups across both the live stage and the electronic Onja Onja stage.</p>

<h3>Live stage to feature artists from Kenya, Tanzania and South Africa</h3>

<p>The main stage <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/music/blankets-wine-artist-selection-process-muthoni-ndonga-2025110308301516045"><mark style="color: rgb(184, 0, 0); background-color: inherit;" class="pen-dark-red">brings together established and rising acts from across Africa</mark></a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tanzania’s Marioo leads the list, coming off a strong year marked by the success of Nairobi, his collaboration with Kenyan star Bien.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kenyan group Matata will bring their dance-driven rap sound, while Iyanii is set for his debut appearance at the festival, performing his hit Donjo Maber.</p>

<p>The line-up also includes Okello Max, known for his Afro-fusion style, and Bridgit Blue, one of Kenya’s growing R&amp;B voices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>South African trio MiCasa joins the bill with their blend of house, soul and jazz, while Elsy Wameyo, the Kenyan-Australian rapper, adds a global edge with her lyric-heavy sets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kenyan Gengetone and rap artist Ssaru and Afropop singer Shad Mziki complete the list of performers scheduled for the main stage.</p>

<p>Organisers have placed clear attention on the festival’s electronic music segment. The Onja Onja stage will be headlined by South Africa’s Scorpion Kings, Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa, whose influence on Amapiano continues to shape the genre across the continent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>UK producer and club act Donae’o, known for tracks such as Party Hard and I’m Fly, will also headline.</p>

<p>The rest of the stage is dominated by Kenyan electronic and house DJs, including Foozak, Ms Mika, Hiribae, Darkfruit, and Shishi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The night will close with a back-to-back set featuring Aly Fresh, Mura and Big Nyagz, three Nairobi selectors known for Afro-house, soulful textures and bass-heavy blends.</p>

<p>Festival Creative Director Muthoni Ndonga said the emphasis on Onja Onja is part of a plan to spotlight Kenya’s growing house music scene and draw continental attention to Nairobi’s electronic sound.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The festival team noted that the 2025 edition marks the start of Blankets &amp; Wine’s 17th year, with internal efforts underway to improve service delivery and operational efficiency.</p>

<p>The festival will also feature the Onja Onja Market, a curated space for Kenyan-made crafts, fashion and food.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Taking place close to the Christmas and New Year holidays, the market is expected to offer a snapshot of cultural goods and an opportunity for last-minute shopping.</p>

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRMbZu3iFKZ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRMbZu3iFKZ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRMbZu3iFKZ/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Pulse Kenya (@pulselivekenya)</a></p></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

The main stage brings together established and rising acts from across Africa. 

Blankets & Wine confirms full artist line-up for Kenyan Summer 2025 edition

<p>The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has dismissed claims that the new SIM card registration rules require mobile operators to collect biometric data from subscribers.</p>

<p>In a statement released on Tuesday, the regulator said it had not issued any directive instructing telcos to gather fingerprints, DNA details, or any other form of biometric information during the registration of new lines.</p>

<p>CA noted growing public concern and media reports suggesting that biometric data collection was part of the revised SIM card regulations published in May 2025. The Authority insisted these claims are false and misleading.</p>

<p>CA clarified that while the regulations define biometric data, this does not mean such information will be collected from citizens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Authority stressed that none of the listed identifiers, including blood typing, DNA analysis, fingerprints, earlobe geometry, retinal scans, or voice recognition, are required for SIM registration.</p>

<p><i>“The Authority has not directed our licensees to collect this data,” </i>CA said.</p>

<p>According to CA, the revised regulations were introduced to address three main concerns:</p>

<ul><li><p>Protecting citizens from SIM-related fraud, identity theft, SIM box fraud, and other cybercrimes.</p></li><li><p>Strengthening the integrity of Kenya’s digital ecosystem by ensuring that every registered SIM card belongs to a verified user.</p></li><li><p>Supporting safer access to digital services such as mobile money, e-commerce, and e-government platforms.</p></li></ul>

<p>CA said the rules also protect consumers by ensuring no subscriber is disconnected without prior notice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Operators must follow transparent and fair procedures when handling customer issues, especially relating to SIM suspension for false or repeated failure to meet registration requirements.</p>

<p>The Authority acknowledged ongoing frustration among Kenyans over spam messages, unsolicited subscriptions, misuse of phone numbers, and premium-rate scams.&nbsp;</p>

<p>CA said these remain key priorities, and the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/sim-card-fraud-safaricom-staff-jkuat-student-arrested-over-multi-million-sim-card-2024081615055260088"><mark style="color: rgb(184, 0, 0); background-color: inherit;" class="pen-dark-red">strengthened SIM registration process</mark></a> is part of wider efforts to protect consumers across all networks.</p>

Signs your phone is bugged - and how to fix it

<p>The regulator reaffirmed that subscriber information must be handled in line with the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998, and the Data Protection Act, 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Operators are prohibited from sharing subscriber data without consent or a lawful order.</p>

<p>CA and the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/data-protection-commissioner-unveils-ai-tool-to-engage-kenyans-on-data-privacy-and-2024072915433057977"><mark style="color: rgb(184, 0, 0); background-color: inherit;" class="pen-dark-red">Office of the Data Protection Commissioner</mark></a> (ODPC) will conduct audits and impose sanctions for misuse of customer data.</p>

<p>The Authority also encouraged the development of privacy-enhancing tools, such as number masking on mobile payment platforms, to boost trust in Kenya’s digital economy.</p>

<p><i>“The Authority is fully committed to Kenya’s digital transformation,” </i>the statement said, adding that CA will continue working to enhance digital safety, protect consumers, and ensure transparent regulation of the ICT sector.</p>

An AI generated image of a person collecting data

After days of confusion, CA has come out to explain what the new SIM rules actually mean.

Will Kenyans need to submit biometric data for SIM card registrations? Here's the truth

<p>President Samia Suluhu Hassan has ignited a controversy in Tanzania after appointing her daughter and son-in-law to key positions in her new post-election cabinet, a move that critics are swiftly denouncing as blatant nepotism.</p>

<p>The appointments were announced on Monday as part of a significant cabinet reshuffle following President Suluhu Hassan's disputed re-election victory in October.</p>

<p>Wanu Hafidh Ameir is the eldest child and only daughter of <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/lifestyle/samia-suluhus-biography-big-break-tough-choices-and-the-difficult-road-ahead-2025110205021820921"><mark style="color: rgb(184, 0, 0); background-color: inherit;" class="pen-dark-red">President Samia Suluhu Hassan </mark></a>and her husband, agricultural academic Hafidh Ameir.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She was born in 1982 and grew up in Zanzibar in a politically aware family linked to Tanzania’s long-ruling Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She has three younger brothers, who mostly stay out of the public eye. Wanu, by contrast, has chosen a visible political and public role, often appearing alongside her mother during campaigns and party activities.&nbsp;</p>

Wanu Hafidh Ameir is the eldest child and only daughter of President Samia Suluhu Hassan

<h3>Education and professional background</h3>

<p>Wanu is a lawyer by training. She holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the Open University of Tanzania.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Beyond politics, she is also active in civil society. She is the founder and chairperson of the Mwanamke Initiatives Foundation (MIF), an NGO that focuses on women, youth and <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/lifestyle/overlooked-basics-that-can-make-or-break-childrens-education-2025092515022272799"><mark style="color: rgb(184, 0, 0); background-color: inherit;" class="pen-dark-red">children’s welfare in health, education</mark></a> and socio-economic development.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her work with MIF has involved advocacy, community-based programmes and efforts to build networks for women and young people, especially in Zanzibar.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wanu is a long-serving CCM politician. She has been involved in politics for nearly two decades and has served as:</p>

<ul><li><p>A Member of the Zanzibar House of Representatives since 2005. </p></li><li><p>A Member of the Parliament of the United Republic of Tanzania, representing Zanzibar.</p></li></ul>

<p>Within CCM, she is seen as part of a younger generation that grew up inside the party’s structures but is now operating in a more competitive and contested political environment.</p><p>During the 2025 election cycle, she campaigned actively for her mother’s re-election while also seeking to retain her own seat.<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.tuko.co.ke/world/africa/608397-wanu-hafidh-amier-meet-samia-suluhus-daughter-following-political-footsteps/?utm_source=chatgpt.com">&nbsp;</a></p>

<h3>New role: Deputy Minister of Education</h3>

<p>On 17 November 2025, President Samia named her new Cabinet. In that reshuffle, Wanu was appointed Deputy Minister for Education, Science and Technology, serving under Minister Prof Adolf Mkenda.<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.the-star.co.ke/news/2025-11-18-suluhu-appoints-daughter-son-in-law-to-cabinet?utm_source=chatgpt.com">&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>The appointment placed her at the centre of one of Tanzania’s most sensitive dockets: education, which is grappling with questions of access, quality and reform.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As deputy minister, she is expected to help implement policy in basic and higher education, oversee reforms and engage with teachers, students and parents across the country.</p>

<h2>Who is Mohamed Omary Mchengerwa?</h2>

<p>Mohamed Omary Mchengerwa was born on 1 September 1979. He is a CCM politician and lawyer by training.<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohamed_Mchengerwa?utm_source=chatgpt.com">&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>He holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from Kampala International University and a Master of Laws (LLM) from the University of Dar es Salaam.<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohamed_Mchengerwa?utm_source=chatgpt.com">&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Mchengerwa’s father, Alhaj Omary Mchengerwa, died in February 2025 while performing Umrah in Makkah, a moment that drew national condolence messages and underlined the family’s religious standing.</p>

Tanzania's Health Minister Mohamed Omary Mchengerwa

<p>Mchengerwa has been a CCM Member of Parliament for the Rufiji constituency since 2015.<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohamed_Mchengerwa?utm_source=chatgpt.com">&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Under President Samia, he has held several Cabinet posts:</p>

<ul><li><p>Minister of State in the President’s Office for Public Service Management and Good Governance (from 31 March 2021).</p></li><li><p>Minister of Culture, Arts and Sports (January 2022 – February 2023). </p></li><li><p>Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism (February 2023 – August 2023). </p></li><li><p>Minister in the President’s Office for Regional Administration and Local Government (from September 2023).</p></li></ul>

<p>In these roles, he has been visible on issues ranging from local government elections and development projects to tourism promotion and cultural events.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For example, as minister responsible for regional administration and local government, he led preparations for local government polls and pushed for faster implementation of development projects in regions like Kigoma.</p>

Denis Mwangi

Articles written by the author

Ruto's Sh5 trillion 4-point blueprint to push Kenya into the First World status

How Betty Bayo's children, husband's tribute, Kanyari apology marked her farewell

Ruto signals major shifts in government’s next phase of tax reforms

What Kenyans expect in Ruto’s state of the nation address

Blankets & Wine confirms full artist line-up for Kenyan Summer 2025 edition

Will Kenyans need to submit biometric data for SIM card registrations? Here's the truth

Profiles: Tanzania's first daughter and her husband join Cabinet

The real story behind Kevin Maina’s breakout moment on 'Single Kiasi'

Obinna alleges a rogue unit was after him until president intervened

What we know about the cyberattack that defaced multiple government websites

Can parents kick out adult children? Lawyer Danstan Omari explains

Gov't creates 3 new subregions in Nairobi, check where your estate now falls

NYOTA project: Disbursement updates & what beneficiaries should expect in coming days

Tragic Nairobi-bound flight turns into Sh4.6 billion payout for victim's family

Joe Biography: Life, music journey and rise of the R&B legend performing in Nairobi

Up close and personal: Queen Gathoni takes us through her journey of self

Culture Fit vs. Skill Fit: Which Should You Hire For?

Machakos County's threat to Obinna as Sammy Kioko payment saga escalates

Why Betty Bayo's death blindsided Pastor Kanyari

List of Kenyan content creators nominated at the 2025 TikTok awards