Pulse Mix

Pulse Contributor

In Nairobi, a group of high school students work to bridge cultural and religious divides through one visit, one conversation, and one act of service at a time.&nbsp;

Founded at the International School of Kenya (ISK), the Cultural &amp; Religious Inclusion Initiative (CRII) is a student-led movement dedicated to deepening understanding of Kenya’s rich religious and cultural landscape.

Led by seniors Liam Sanders and Ben Gremley, the club has grown into a powerful platform for inclusion, interfaith learning, and social action.&nbsp;“Our mission is to foster greater understanding of the wide variety of cultures and religions within Nairobi, through dialogue, service, and charity.”&nbsp;

Over the past two years, CRII has taken students beyond the classroom and into Nairobi&rsquo;s vibrant religious spaces, visiting temples, churches, and other places of worship. Alongside learning, these visits included various acts of service and charitable efforts.&nbsp;

In November 2024, the club visited ACK Christ Church in Westlands, contributing school supplies to their Kids to Kids outreach, which runs a school that supports underprivileged children in Nairobi.&nbsp;

In February 2025, they toured the Jain Shwetamber Munisuvratswami Temple in Parklands, engaging with the Jain community and donating to their general charity fund.

ISK's Cultural & Religious Inclusion students' initiative

One of CRII’s earliest projects included a visit to the Hare Krishna Temple in Ngara, where students delivered food supplies to support the temple’s free community kitchen, which feeds thousands across the city every week.

More recently, members attended the open house at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints’ newly built temple on Wayaki Way. There, students learned about Mormon beliefs and traditions, engaging with volunteers in one of Nairobi’s newest religious centers.

In addition to their visits, CRII produces videos, and hosts interfaith discussions on campus to spark ongoing dialogue among students.

As CRII prepares to expand its outreach to other schools and religious communities, the students behind it hope their work will inspire more young people to step out of their comfort zones and explore the beauty of difference.

Published in association with the Cultural &amp; Religious Inclusion Initiative of the International School of Kenya (ISK).

Nairobi students champion Kenya’s religious diversity through charity, service

A group of high school students from the International School of Kenya has created an initiative that aims to promote cultural and religious understanding, here are a few stops the club has made around Nairobi.

Vincent Ochoi

Retirement should be a time of peace, dignity, and fulfilment, a season where you finally reap the rewards of a lifetime of hard work.

Yet for millions of Kenyans, retirement feels more like an approaching storm. With little to no savings, many face the harsh reality of financial dependence, stress, and poverty in old age.

This crisis is not in the distant future it is already here. According to data from the Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA), only 26% of Kenya’s 28 million working population have some form of pension coverage.

That leaves nearly three out of every four Kenyans unprepared for life after work. The burden of care often shifts to children, relatives, or even well-wishers, many of whom are already overstretched.

So why are Kenyans not saving for retirement? And more importantly, what can we do about it?

<h3>The myths that cost us our future</h3>

One of the biggest barriers to retirement saving is the belief that it’s only for the wealthy or the formally employed.

Many assume they need a high income to start saving. Others delay, thinking they will begin once their financial situation improves. Some believe their children will support them in old age, as culture often dictates.

But times have changed. Life expectancy in Kenya is rising, families are becoming smaller, and the cost of living continues to increase. There is no small amount when it comes to long term savings, and the earlier you begin, the more secure your retirement will be.

Thanks to the power of compound interest, even modest, regular contributions made consistently over time can grow into a meaningful retirement fund.

<h3>Retirement planning is for all, not just the salaried few</h3>

While employer-sponsored pension schemes are valuable for those in formal employment, a growing number of Kenyans are in the informal sector or self-employed. For these millions, traditional pension plans may feel out of reach. But solutions exist.

Personal Retirement Schemes (PRS) are specially designed to meet the needs of individuals outside formal employment.

Whether you’re a boda boda rider, a mama mboga, a jua kali artisan, a teacher in a private school, or a small business owner, these flexible plans allow you to save what you can, when you can. With contributions starting as low as Sh500, these schemes are opening doors to retirement security for more Kenyans than ever before.

Additionally, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that may not be able to set up full pension schemes for their staff can register as contributing employers to these individual schemes allowing their workers to enjoy the same long-term benefits.

We need to build and embrace a culture of financial preparedness. Addressing Kenya’s retirement crisis requires more than just products it demands a change in mindset.

We must start by normalising financial literacy from a young age and across all sectors. Retirement planning should not be something we think about in our 50s; it should be a routine part of life in our 20s and 30s.

Financial institutions, employers, government agencies, and community groups all have a role to play. But most importantly, every individual needs to embrace a culture of saving today for a better tomorrow.

<h3>Ask yourself: Do I want to work forever?&nbsp; </h3>

Will I have enough to live comfortably when I stop working? If I were unable to work today, how would I survive? These questions are not meant to alarm you they are meant to inspire action.

There is a reward awaiting those who plan for their retirement early. Imagine reaching retirement without fear or anxiety.

You wake up not to chase income, but to enjoy life traveling, spending time with family, volunteering in your community, or even pursuing passions you put off for years. That kind of retirement is not a fantasy. It’s achievable, but only if you start planning today.

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now. ” Your future is not something to fear it is something to prepare for.

Enroll in a retirement plan. Save a little each month. Encourage your friends and colleagues to do the same. Let’s create a movement where retirement is not a burden on others, but a celebration of life.

Let’s choose dignity. Let’s choose independence. Let’s choose to retire with peace.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of Pulse as its publisher.

Retirees going about house chores [Image Credit: Centre for Ageing Better]

Three out of every four Kenyans are unprepared for life after work. This crisis is not in the distant future; it is already here. According to data from the Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA), only 26% of Kenya’s 28 million working population have some form of pension coverage.

Why every Kenyan must start saving for retirement today

Moving to a new city can be overwhelming to say the least. If you add adapting to the culture and the climate to the list, overwhelming becomes an understatement.&nbsp;

The good thing is that you can always navigate with more ease with the right information. And, this article is exactly about that - empowering you with the information you need to navigate Mombasa as a first timer.&nbsp;

These tips will be your saviour during your stay in <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/lifestyle/food-and-travel/5-star-luxury-and-amenities-aboard-largest-cruise-ship-inspected-by-ruto-in-mombasa-2025022311423538854">the Kenyan coastal city:</a>

<ul><li>Ditch your Sheng'</li></ul>

It doesn’t matter how good you are in Sheng'. The truth is that it does you no good in Mombasa.

Actually, it will only make things harder because most people in Mombasa don’t speak Sheng. So, if you are planning to relocate soon, you better start working on your Swahili for ease communication.&nbsp;

If you are too used to Nairobi life, you might need to revisit your etiquette lessons.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/lifestyle/the-boujie-starter-pack-signs-youve-made-it-in-nairobis-urban-lifestyle-2025041020334023654">Life can be too hectic in Nairobi</a> to remember using courteous words. But in Mombasa, words like “nashukuru, tafadhali, nipishe, naomba” are the order of the day.

If you don’t use them, you might come out as rude and Mombasa culture responds with ridicule, sarcasm and outright 'you're not worth my time' to rudeness.

KENYA NAVY AT 60: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/news/local/kenya-navy-at-60-rich-history-successful-operations-and-president-rutos-praises-2024121412511532013">Highlights of President Ruto's speech</a>

With temperatures getting as high as 33℃, you want to hydrate regularly. Make water your friend and eat lots of succulent fruits and vegetables to avoid dehydration.

Drinking tap water in Mombasa may also be a struggle because many people find it 'salty'. If you are the kind that boils drinking water, you might want to consider taking bottled water and luckily it is widely available at affordable prices all over the city.

Talking about water, Mombasa water is hard and you might not enjoy doing laundry and dishes as much as you have been with soft water. If you are planning to be in Mombasa in the long term, you might want to invest in a water softener system to curb blocked sinks and stained bathrooms.&nbsp;

<ul><li>3-wheeler Tuk Tuks are a lifestyle</li></ul>

If you ever need to get somewhere and have no patience for waiting for a matatu to be full, you can always hop into a tuk-tuk. They are perfect for short distances and can easily navigate narrow streets.&nbsp;

<ul><li>Be respectful of the religion and culture</li></ul>

Even with the hot climate, you will find most women in Mombasa fully covered from head to toe in hijabs and buibui. You want to respect their culture and Islamic religion at all times for healthy and peaceful coexistence.&nbsp;

<ul><li>Be careful at the beach</li></ul>

While you might be excited about spending your evening at the beach, avoid lonely and over-populated beaches for safety purposes. You also want to be out of the ocean by dusk.

<ul><li>Watch out for malaria</li></ul>

The warm and humid climate in the Kenyan coast encourages mosquito breeding, making it a malaria-prone region. You want to arm yourself with a mosquito net or get the malaria vaccine to enjoy a healthy stay in the city.

Mombasa is a great city for tourists and residents too. From the white sandy beaches to the heritage sites, there’s a lot to explore and enjoy. I hope these tips will make your stay easier and more enjoyable.

Aerial view of Mombasa, Kenya (@LifeInMombasa)

Mombasa is considered Kenya's second-largest city and just like the other four, it has a distinct culture that may be imperceptible to newcomers. Here's a cheat code to help you navigate the coastal city if you're a newcomer moving in.

8 culture changes to prepare for when moving to Mombasa

Now, more than ever before, it&rsquo;s easy to make money from content creation all thanks to AI. Forget about all the discussions about AI replacing humans and think of how to leverage it to your advantage.&nbsp;

For bold and innovative content creators, AI isn&rsquo;t a competitor but a much needed tool for growth and making work easier.&nbsp; Not sure of how you can use AI to earn more as a content creator? Worry not. In this article, we share different ways AI has simplified content creation, allowing you to earn more.&nbsp;

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/business/what-ai-enabled-ad-campaigns-mean-for-kenya-2025021213300007334">What AI-enabled Eskimi ads mean for Kenya</a>

<h3>1. Ideation for writers and creatives</h3>

If you are a writer or a creative, you know that writers&rsquo; or creatives&rsquo; block is a real thing. Whether it&rsquo;s Monday blues, fatigue or you simply missed your coffee, AI ought to be your assistant when it comes to brainstorming new ideas.&nbsp;

With tools like Gemini and ChatGPT, all you have to do is ask it for ideas, and it will give you different suggestions. While they may not be the perfect ones, they trigger your brain to think along certain lines. You can then fine-tune the ideas to come up with a final, brilliant masterpiece.&nbsp;

CEOs are turning to ChatGPT as a miracle solution to their business problems.Hannes P Albert/Picture Alliance via Getty Images

AI might have taken away some jobs but it also did create new opportunities. With AI, we have seen many opportunities that revolve around data annotation. Data annotation involves labelling data in a simplified manner for machine learning. In other words, you train AI so that it can produce the desired results when prompted.&nbsp;

Content creators who are really good in local languages like Swahili have opportunities of training AI models to understand, interpret and respond in the language.

With the help of AI, content creators can make more content in a short time. With so much content being produced, content creators need to produce more content to get noticed by their audiences. More quality content means more impressions, and more money.&nbsp;

If you are creating content for business owners, it means that you can make content for more clients without much struggle and earn more.&nbsp;

Did you know that you can use AI to generate high-quality images and videos? Whether you are looking for a professional-looking photo for your LinkedIn or eye-catching images for your website, AI has your back.&nbsp;

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/movies/how-to-create-a-studio-ghibli-style-image-and-7-other-styles-to-try-2025040911010315414">How to create a studio Ghibli-style image &amp; 7 other styles to try</a>

Make your prompt as specific as possible and AI tools will generate captivating visuals, saving you money for stock images and professional photography. Using the images you already have, you can prompt AI to convert them into what you would like. If you want to be in a blue suit or have a beach as your background, AI will deliver exactly that.&nbsp;

Let&rsquo;s be honest. Content creation can be hard and sometimes you need to repurpose your old content instead of coming up with new content. For bloggers, for instance, you can use AI to make multiple social media posts from one blog.&nbsp;

For example, out of one blog post, you can prompt AI tools to produce 3 LinkedIn posts, 3 Instagram posts and 3 Facebook posts. You don&rsquo;t have to spend time customizing content to fit various formats.&nbsp;

AI is already here with us and it might not be going anywhere anytime soon. Therefore, the earlier we embrace it, the better.

Whether you are a professional content creator or an entrepreneur who must make content that your audience can resonate with, you can make AI your assistant in creating content.&nbsp;&nbsp;

An AI-generated image of an African advertising avatar displaying a message on a smartphone

Kenyan content creators can now leverage AI tools to boost productivity and earnings. Learn about five innovative AI applications transforming the digital content landscape in Kenya.

5 ways AI makes it easy to earn from content creation in Kenya

Citam, formerly Nairobi Pentecostal Church, is one of the most popular churches in Nairobi, with branches in Valley Road, Buruburu, Woodley, Parklands, among other places in and out of Nairobi.

The church, currently under the leadership of Presiding Bishop Calisto Odede, has been in existence since 1959 and has over 35 branches spread over the country and in the US.

<h3>Early Life &amp; Education of Calisto Odede</h3>

Born in Migori in 1962, Odede started his education journey at Kadika Primary School and later joined Cardinal Otunga High School for his O&rsquo; level and A&rsquo; level.&nbsp;

Later on, Odede joined Kenyatta University, where he pursued a degree in Education (Physics &amp; Chemistry option).

Odede also holds a diploma in Biblical Studies and a Master's in Intercultural Studies from Trinity International University (US) and Bethany University of Singapore, respectively.

From a young age, Odede always wanted to be a preacher. In 1980, he was born again while in his fourth form. He would later pioneer a Bible study group at school which further grew his zeal for preaching.

At Kenyatta University, he was elected as the head of the Christian Union and worked closely with the Fellowship of Christian Unions (FOCUS). After pursuing his teaching career for seven months, he joined FOCUS full-time.

Odede joined Citam as a member in 1988, and in 2008, he became a pastor at the Valley Road branch, then went to the Woodley branch, to Karen, and back to Valley Road.

He later joined Nairobi Baptist Church as a senior pastor and served for six years. It was while serving at the Nairobi Baptist Church that he was approached to be a presiding bishop at Citam.&nbsp;

In December 2020, Odede was consecrated as the presiding bishop for Christ is the answer ministry (Citam), where he is currently serving.&nbsp;

Bishop Odede has also been heading the Pan Africa Christian University as the chancellor since 2021.&nbsp;

Bishop Calisto Odede is married to one Elizabeth and they have three sons: Victor, Michael and Benson.&nbsp;

Bishop Calisto Odede, a former high school teacher turned theologian, now leads Citam

Citam’s Bishop Calisto Odede Biography: Early life, education, ministry & family

Enda Sportswear

March, a month dedicated to celebrating women's achievements, provides the perfect backdrop to reflect on the remarkable journey of Catherine Ndereba, a Kenyan marathon legend.

But her story isn't a solitary triumph; it's woven into the rich tapestry of Kenyan women's athletic history, a lineage that began with the pioneering spirit of three women at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics.&nbsp;

Before Ndereba captivated the world with her signature headscarf and sunglasses that became synonymous with marathon dominance, Kenyan women were quietly breaking barriers.

The 1968 Olympics marked a watershed moment. For the first time, three Kenyan women – Tecla Chemabwai, Lydia Stephens-Oketch, and Sarah Chepchirchir – stepped onto the global stage.

Though their performances didn't yield medals, their presence ignited a flame, proving that Kenyan women possessed the talent and determination to compete internationally. They were the seeds of change, the pioneers who paved the way for future generations of Kenya’s women distance running queens.&nbsp;

Fast forward to the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Catherine Ndereba emerged as a beacon of excellence.

<h3>One of the most decorated female marathoners</h3>

Catherine Ndereba. She defied odds to become the best. She made Kenya proud by winning several medals.

Born in 1972, she rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most decorated female marathon runners of all time. Her career, marked by unwavering focus, relentless resilience, and a quiet determination, offers <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulsesports.co.ke/athletics/story/catherine-ndereba-the-marathon-great-who-opened-the-door-for-kenyas-female-runners-2024070805410738520">invaluable lessons for aspiring female athletes worldwide</a>.&nbsp;

Ndereba's journey was not without its challenges. Like many athletes, she faced the grueling demands of training, the pressure of competition, and the inevitable setbacks. But what set her apart was her ability to navigate these obstacles with grace and fortitude.

She didn't just run marathons; she conquered them. She also broke through barriers.

For example, Ndereba’s fastest marathon time was her 2001 world record run in Chicago. Just seven days after Japan’s Olympic champion Naoko Takahashi had breached the 2:20 barrier with a landmark 2:19:46 clocking in Berlin, Ndereba flew to a finishing time of 2:18:47 in the US windy city to not only break the 2:20 hour barrier for women but also set a world record.&nbsp;

According to Ndereba: "Takahashi’s run in Berlin made it so much easier for me... It was like she broke a barrier. Before, women didn't think we could go under 2:20. In future, the next generation will run under 2:18. Maybe they will break 2:15 one day."

Note that women have not only broken through 2:15 but also 2:10 as the current world record is 2:09:56 held by Kenyan, Ruth Chepng'etich. Thus, Ndereba was a breaker of major barriers herself.

<h3>Ndereba's made the most unpopular decision of her career as a new mom</h3>

When her daughter, Jane, turned one, she left her at home in Nairobi with her husband, Anthony Maina, for three months each year.

Setting up base in Norristown, Pennsylvania, and spending a quarter of her year competing on the US road-racing circuit attracted criticism back home.

"If you don't have anything to sacrifice, you don't have anything to gain," Ndereba said. "This is my career. There is no way you can tell one of your kids not to go ahead with his or her career."

Jane was 10, old enough to accompany her mother on her travels, when Ndereba emerged victorious from a grueling thriller of a World Championship marathon race in the stifling heat and humidity of Osaka in 2007. A daughter witnessing the mother win gold was a fulfillment of years of hard work and personal as well as family sacrifice.&nbsp;

<h3>Catherine Ndereba's success and legacy</h3>

By the time <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulsesports.co.ke/athletics/story/marathon-legend-catherine-ndereba-finally-explains-why-she-retired-unconventionally-2024070709432642478">Catherine Ndereba retired at the age of 41</a>, she had distinguished herself as Kenya’s two-time world marathon champion, two-time Olympic silver medalist, former world record holder, won four Boston Marathons and two Chicago Marathons.

Catherine Ndereba wins the 2003 world title (© Getty Images)

Given her long reign at the top of the world, Ndereba at her retirement said, "I have done enough duty for my country, and I am now handing over the baton to Edna Kiplagat [the 2011 and 2013 marathon world champion] and others to also play their part”.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulsesports.co.ke/athletics/story/catherine-ndereba-narrates-encounter-with-a-crazy-fan-years-after-retirement-2024070909553596284">Catherine Ndereba narrates encounter with a 'crazy' fan years after retirement</a>

Thus, Catherine the great, one of the world’s most dominant runners in the first decade of the 21st century, gracefully exited the stage but her reputation, her success and fortitude continue to inspire many.

The legacy of <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulsesports.co.ke/athletics/story/how-catherine-ndereba-inspired-ruth-chepngetich-into-athletics-2023033108153284502">Ndereba’s marathon dominance in Kenya was on full display as Ruth Chepng'etich of Kenya won the Chicago Marathon</a> in a stunning time of 2:09:56, a world record in October 2024.

She broke the previous record, 2:11:53, run by Tigist Assefa of Ethiopia at the Berlin Marathon in 2023, by 1:56. In running sub-2:10, Chepng'etich broke a barrier many thought would never be broken. She averaged 4:57.4 per mile.&nbsp;

<h3>Lessons for young female athletes</h3>

Catherine Ndereba's career offers a wealth of lessons for young female athletes, particularly in the areas of patience, resilience, and focus:&nbsp;

Success doesn't happen overnight. Ndereba's journey was a testament to the importance of patience and perseverance.

She understood that building a successful athletic career takes time, dedication, and a willingness to put in hard work. Young athletes should embrace the process, focus on long-term goals, and celebrate small victories along the way.

Setbacks are inevitable in any athletic career. Ndereba's ability to bounce back from challenges and learn from her mistakes is a testament to her resilience.

Young athletes should develop a growth mindset, view failures as opportunities for learning, and never give up on their dreams.&nbsp;

Ndereba's unwavering focus on her goals was a key factor in her success. She remained disciplined and committed to her training, even when faced with distractions and challenges. Young athletes should learn to prioritise their goals, eliminate distractions, and stay focused on what they want to achieve.&nbsp;

The journey to success is just as important as the destination. Ndereba's career was a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and a love for the sport.

Young athletes should embrace the challenges and rewards of their athletic journey and find joy in the process of pursuing their dreams.&nbsp;

The foundation laid by the women of the 1968 Kenyan Olympic team is vital. They displayed that woman could compete. Young women should learn from the strong foundation and build upon it.&nbsp;

<h3>'The Great Enda Walk' with Catherine Ndereba</h3>

Enda Athletic, in celebrating Catherine Ndereba, acknowledges the power of her story and the enduring legacy of Kenyan women in athletics. Her life embodies the spirit of resilience, focus, and dedication that defines true champions.

Beyond her remarkable athletic career, Ndereba has also made a significant impact through her philanthropic efforts. She has actively participated in numerous charitable initiatives, with a particular emphasis on advancing education and healthcare in underprivileged communities across Kenya.

READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulsesports.co.ke/athletics/story/legendary-kenyan-marathoner-reveals-why-sports-science-has-made-breaking-records-easier-2025012117320822149">Catherine Ndereba reveals why sports science has made breaking records easier</a>

Indeed, her dedication to giving back and creating a positive impact in the lives of others has cemented her legacy as a true role model, earning her the respect and admiration of the global running community.

By sharing her story, we hope to inspire a new generation of female athletes, and young girls, to pursue their dreams with passion and determination, building upon the foundations laid by the pioneers of 1968 and the queen of the marathon, Catherine Ndereba.

Catherine will be celebrating women's strength under the theme&nbsp;“Honoring Women’s Strength &amp; Spirit” at The Great Walk on&nbsp;Saturday, 29th March 2025, at the&nbsp;Ngong Road Forest Sanctuary (Moitoni Block, Section 1)&nbsp;from&nbsp;8:00 am to 1:00 pm.

This article was prepared by the Enda Athletic Research Team.

Olympian and marathon legend Catherine Ndereba with her squad ahead of 'The Great Walk By Enda' set to take place at the Ngong Road Forest Sanctuary on March 29, 2025

Catherine Ndereba's is an enduring legacy of Kenyan women in athletics. Her life embodies the spirit of resilience, focus, and dedication that defines true champions.

How Ndereba's unpopular decision as a new mom led to marathon glory

Lynet Okumu

However, for some of the region's most high-profile socialites, love has taken center stage and they are now officially off the market.

From fairytale weddings and lavish engagements to intimate elopements, these East African socialites are officially off the market.

<h3>1. Amber Ray – Kenya&nbsp;</h3>

Socialite Faith Makau aka Amber Ray is the latest Kenyan socialite to raise the bar after <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/lifestyle/relationships-and-weddings/amber-ray-says-a-big-yes-after-kennedy-rapundo-proposed-during-trip-to-dubai/p8bq67r">saying yes to Kennedy Rapudo in more than one proposal.</a>

READ ALSO: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/amber-rays-journey-of-love-high-profile-romances-and-second-wife-revelations-2025012813304503724">Amber Ray’s journey of love: High-profile romances and second wife revelations</a>

This came a few months after Amber revealed that she was ready to settle down and be committed.

“Okay, the economy is no longer suitable for me to remain an independent woman. The time has finally come. I am now considering listening to you n****s for supplemental income. I’m ready to settle down this time I mean it!” Read her Instagram post shared on June 2022.&nbsp;

Amber Ray and her boyfriend Kenned Rapudo

<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/celebrities/kennedy-rapudo-has-proposed-to-amber-ray-for-the-second-time-during-their-baby-shower-2024072909430502176">Kennedy Rapudo proposed to Amber Ray</a> for the second time, this time with a diamond ring, following his initial proposal in November 2022.

The couple lives together and shares a daughter. Rapudo has two other children from previous relationships, while Amber also has a son from a past relationship.

READ ALSO:<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/lifestyle/relationships-and-weddings/amber-ray-issues-marriage-ultimatum-to-fiance-kennedy-rapudo-amid-regrets-2024112007142361822"> I made mistake giving birth to Africanah before marriage - Amber Ray</a>

<h3>2. Anita Fabiola – Uganda</h3>

Ugandan actress, former beauty queen, and socialite Anita Fabiola is officially off the market after walking down the aisle with the man of her dream Mark Ronald on January 7, 2022.

In a series of beautiful photos, the businesswoman took to her Instagram account to inform her loyal fans of the exciting progress in her life.

"I’m still finding the right words to express how surreal yesterday felt. It still feels like a dream. Thank you to all the friends and family that made this possible. We felt loved and, we thank you for your blessings," Anitah Fabiola.

<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/lifestyle/beauty-and-fashion/risper-faith-steps-out-in-new-looks-after-2nd-liposuction-procedure-2024072914583519127">Reality TV star Risper Faith</a>—who many might call a retired socialite—has transitioned into a successful influencer and content creator.

Risper married Brian in February 2018 after being engaged for nearly a year. Since then, the couple has shared glimpses of their happy relationship with fans. They have one child, a son, together.

READ ALSO: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/i-wish-i-had-the-confidence-to-post-my-son-risper-faith-2024081812424648023#google_vignette">Risper Faith reveals why she hides her son’s face</a>

<h3>4. Zari Hassan - Uganda</h3>

Ugandan socialite and businesswoman Zari Hassan is married and happy.

<a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/celebrities/zari-hassan-reveals-the-benefits-of-not-living-with-her-husband-shakib-lutaaya-2024072918084577933">The South Africa-based Uganda woman</a> kept the identity of her man hidden until May 2022 when she was spotted with him, Shakib Lutaaya at a beach in Dar E Salaam.

READ ALSO: <a target="_self" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulselive.co.ke/articles/entertainment/celebrities/zari-hassan-declares-right-to-a-second-husband-if-shakib-lutaaya-cheats-2024072918105705607">I have the right to a second husband - Zari Hassan</a>

After dating for a while, the mother of five&nbsp;tied the knot with the businessman and professional boxer on October 3, 2023.

East African socialites who are officially off the market

List of East African socialites who are officially off the market

Nicanor Sabula

A recent newspaper report on a raft of proposals by the National Treasury to among others introduce taxes targeting the aviation sector rekindled the old-aged, misguided characterisation of air travel as a “luxury service” enjoyed exclusively by the rich.&nbsp;

This is far from the truth and is misrepresentative of Kenya’s modern economy and the realities of its travel industry.

In the proposals, the National Treasury is seeking to introduce 16% VAT on a number of air travel related services such as air ticketing services by travel agents, hiring, chattering and leasing of aircrafts, aircraft navigation systems among others. &nbsp;

This adjustment, Treasury argues, is a necessary step towards expanding the tax base and ensuring that a wider array of services contributes to national revenue.

While the government’s decision to provide tax relief on essentials such as bread and unga is widely welcomed, widespread use and importance of air travel across socio-economic strata in Kenya.

<h3>Air travel is a growing necessity, not a luxury</h3>

Kenya’s air travel industry has grown rapidly in recent years, reflecting the country’s expanding middle class, the growth of domestic tourism, and the rise of affordable travel options.

Domestic airlines like Jambojet,&nbsp;Skyward and; Safarilink &nbsp;have made it possible for Kenyans from diverse income levels to travel domestically, whether for business, education, family, obligations, or tourism.

For instance, it’s now common to find fares from Nairobi to Mombasa or Kisumu for as low as Sh5,000, making air travel an attractive alternative to long bus journeys, particularly in terms of safety and time saved.

Moreover, in some areas where road infrastructure is still developing, air travel remains the only practical choice of travel allowing people to traverse the country with ease and efficiency.

Granted, air travel in Kenya still remains expensive for the average Kenyan- however, to assume that those flying between cities such as Nairobi, Eldoret, Kisumu, Lodwar or Wajir are exclusively wealthy overlooks the reality that many travelers are professionals, small business owners, students, and even rural residents visiting family.

<h3>Impact of Proposed Taxes on Business Travel</h3>

Taxing air ticketing services is likely to impact Kenya’s small and medium-sized businesses, which rely on affordable domestic flights to expand their reach and access opportunities.

Many entrepreneurs and workers travel within Kenya to secure contracts, attend conferences, and network, all of which support economic growth and job creation.&nbsp;If air ticket prices rise due to new taxes, it could limit access for these business travelers, ultimately affecting productivity and the economy.

Given that Kenya aims to position itself as a regional economic hub, affordable travel options are crucial. For many, air travel is no longer a luxury but a cost-effective solution to meet the demands of a rapidly modernizing economy.

<h3>Balancing Revenue with Accessibility</h3>

While the government has an obligation to explore all avenues for tax revenue, it’s essential that any changes in tax policy consider the broader implications on everyday Kenyans.

Air transport, just like other modes of transportation is a public service consumed by mwananchi at a slightly higher price. It is for the same reason we don’t tax matatus or bus fares or even SGR fares. Air travel may seem an unlikely target, but for a growing number of Kenyans, it’s a part of their livelihoods.

KATA officials led by Chairman Dr Joseph Kithitu and CEO Nicanor Sabula presented a petition to the National Assembly Committee of Finance and Economic Planning on behalf of members of KATA at the ongoing public participation forum. The petition called for the scrapping of the proposal to introduce VAT on air ticketing services supplied by Travel Agents.

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