Monthly Archives: March 2025

Rironi-Mau Summit Road Upgrade: A Game Changer for Kenya’s Economy

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The impending transformation of the Rironi – Mau Summit road is generating considerable excitement across Kenya and the East African region, promising a significant leap forward in connectivity and economic prosperity. This ambitious infrastructure project, upgrading the existing congested two-lane highway into a modern four-lane dual carriageway spanning approximately 175 kilometers, is not just about easing traffic; it’s a strategic move to solidify Kenya’s position as a pivotal trade and transport hub . As a crucial segment of the Northern Corridor, this road links the bustling port of Mombasa to landlocked neighbors like Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, making its upgrade a matter of regional economic significance . For the millions who rely on this route, the promise of drastically reduced travel times, potentially halving the journey between major centers like Nakuru and Nairobi, offers not just convenience but also increased productivity and access to opportunities . This development follows a somewhat turbulent path, with an initial agreement with a French consortium being cancelled before the project was recently awarded to a Chinese firm, signaling a shifting landscape in Kenya’s infrastructure partnerships . The groundbreaking, slated for June 2025 with a targeted completion by June 2027, marks a renewed commitment to tackling the persistent congestion that has long plagued this vital artery.

A Report by Citizen Digital

The ripple effects of this enhanced connectivity are expected to extend far beyond smoother commutes, significantly boosting Kenya’s tourism and manufacturing sectors. Western Kenya boasts an array of natural wonders, from the flamingo-filled Lake Nakuru National Park to the vast plains of the Maasai Mara, attractions that will become more accessible with reduced travel times . This improved access is anticipated to draw more domestic and international tourists, injecting vital revenue into local economies and creating employment opportunities in the hospitality and service industries . Simultaneously, the manufacturing sector stands to gain immensely from a more efficient transportation network . The seamless movement of raw materials and finished goods is crucial for industrial growth, and the upgraded Rironi – Mau Summit road promises to streamline supply chains, lower logistics costs, and enhance the competitiveness of Kenyan-made products . This project aligns with the government’s broader vision for infrastructure-led economic growth, recognizing that efficient transport links are fundamental to unlocking the full potential of various sectors and fostering both national and regional trade . The anticipated creation of approximately 1,500 jobs during the construction phase and another 200 during operation further underscores the project’s potential to empower local communities.

Beyond the immediate economic benefits, the Rironi – Mau Summit road upgrade is poised to deliver significant social advantages, improving the quality of life for countless Kenyans. Enhanced connectivity translates to better access to essential services such as healthcare and education, particularly for those living in the regions along the corridor . For instance, the Rongai Level 4 Hospital in Nakuru County is expected to provide more timely care to accident victims due to its proximity to the upgraded highway . Moreover, improved road infrastructure in rural areas has been shown to positively impact household well-being and facilitate access to markets for farmers and small businesses, potentially increasing incomes and reducing social isolation . While the project has undergone environmental and social impact assessments, ensuring mitigation measures are in place will be crucial to address potential negative impacts such as land acquisition and disruption to local livelihoods . Overall, the Rironi – Mau Summit road project represents a transformative undertaking with the potential to catalyze economic growth, enhance regional integration, and deliver tangible improvements to the lives of Kenyans by providing safer, faster, and more reliable transportation .  

References:

Nation Construction of Rironi-Mau summit four lane road begins in June

Nation Ruto: Dualling of Nairobi-Nakuru highway to start next year

Nation Murkomen: We will build Rironi-Mau Summit highway without toll fees, debt

The Eastleigh Voice Rironi-Mau Summit road upgrade to begin in June, completion set for 2027

Kenyans.co.ke KeNHA to Expand Nairobi-Nakuru-Mau Summit Highway to Four Lanes, Completion Set for 2027

KBC Rironi-Mau Summit Road expansion to begin in June after Cabinet nod

 















Concerns Over Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum Implementation

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Kenya’s ambitious shift from the long-standing 8-4-4 education system to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) is facing mounting scrutiny as the first cohort of Grade 9 learners prepares for the pivotal transition to senior school and the selection of career pathways. This significant educational reform, intended to cultivate practical skills and competencies for the 21st century, has been met with growing apprehension from parents and the general public. Key concerns center on the readiness of schools to accommodate the new curriculum, particularly regarding infrastructure and resources, the preparedness and training of teachers to effectively deliver the competency-based approach, and the escalating financial burden placed on families to support their children’s learning. The lack of clear communication about the structure of senior school pathways and the specializations offered by different institutions has further amplified anxieties, leaving many stakeholders uncertain about the future direction of their children’s education.

A Report by NTV Kenya

A deeper examination reveals a multitude of specific challenges hindering the smooth implementation of the CBC, especially as it enters the senior school phase. Many public schools grapple with inadequate infrastructure, including classrooms and essential laboratories for STEM-related subjects, raising doubts about their capacity to effectively deliver the curriculum. Teachers, while some have received training, often feel ill-prepared for the hands-on, skill-based learning methodologies required by the CBC, particularly within the specialized senior school pathways. The financial strain on parents continues to be a major point of contention, with the costs of specialized learning materials and project-based assessments adding to the already significant expenses of education. Furthermore, the early specialization inherent in the CBC, with learners choosing career pathways at the end of Grade 9, has sparked concerns about potentially limiting future opportunities if these choices are not well-informed. The availability and quality of guidance and counseling to support learners in making these crucial decisions are also under question, with fears that inadequate support could lead to misaligned choices and unfulfilled potential.

A Report about Pathways to Senior School by NTV Kenya

In response to these widespread concerns, the Kenyan government has acknowledged the challenges and outlined various initiatives aimed at addressing them, including policy statements, transition guidelines, and teacher training programs . However, expert analyses consistently point to persistent issues such as inadequate teacher training, limited resources and infrastructure, financial burdens on families, and policy coordination challenges . Recommendations from education experts emphasize the need for enhanced and continuous teacher training, prioritized allocation of resources, effective engagement with parents and stakeholders, and sustained investment in school infrastructure . As the country navigates this critical juncture in its educational transformation, addressing these multifaceted concerns will be paramount to ensuring the successful implementation of the CBC and realizing its intended benefits for Kenyan learners .  

References:

Nation Grade 9 learners to choose senior school pathways in second term

Nation CBC: What parents and stakeholders want in transition to senior school

The Standard Maths no longer compulsory as CBC pioneers set to pick careers

The Standard Concerns over transition of Grade 9 learners to senior secondary school

Citizen Digital Wananchi Opinion: Why many are moving kids to International Schools

The Future of Kenya’s Car Manufacturing Landscape

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The Kenyan automotive industry is currently at a fascinating crossroads, marked by both promising developments and significant headwinds. While experiencing a notable surge in vehicle exports across East Africa, signaling a growing regional demand, the sector is also grappling with the imminent enforcement of stricter age limit regulations for imported used vehicles, creating a compliance rush for dealers. Amidst these dynamics, the local manufacturing scene has witnessed a dramatic turn with the re-entry of Mobius Motors, Kenya’s first homegrown vehicle manufacturer, under new Middle Eastern ownership, sparking hopes for a revitalized domestic production. This positive development, however, is counterbalanced by the announced departure of CMC Motors Group, a long-established player in the East African automotive and agricultural machinery market, citing unsustainable economic pressures. These parallel events underscore the volatile and transformative nature of the industry as it navigates evolving regulations, global competition, and shifting market dynamics.

A Report by Dennis THE NATIONAL

Several key challenges persist within the Kenyan automotive sector, threatening to impede its progress. Vehicle importers are facing a race against time and financial risks associated with the new age limit for used car imports, compounded by foreign currency shortages and potential price inflation. Local automotive manufacturing, even with the anticipated revival of Mobius Motors, continues to struggle against the dominance of cheaper used imports, reliance on foreign components, infrastructure limitations, and a shortage of skilled labor. The ambitious transition towards electric vehicles is also fraught with obstacles, including a limited charging infrastructure, high upfront costs, battery concerns, policy uncertainties, and low public awareness. Furthermore, the intricate import procedures for used cars add another layer of complexity for businesses. The impending exit of CMC Motors introduces additional concerns, potentially leading to job losses and disruptions in the supply of vehicles and agricultural equipment, highlighting the broader economic vulnerabilities within the region.

Looking ahead, the Kenyan automotive industry faces several potential pitfalls that could undermine its long-term sustainability. Economic volatility, inconsistent government policies, and the slow growth of local manufacturing capacity pose significant risks. Lagging infrastructure development, particularly for roads and EV charging, could further hinder the industry’s advancement. Failure to adapt to global automotive trends and increasing regional competition also present considerable challenges. However, with strategic interventions focusing on clear policy frameworks, investment in local manufacturing and infrastructure, skills development, and regional collaboration, Kenya has the potential to overcome these hurdles. The re-emergence of Mobius Motors offers a beacon of hope for local production, while the gap left by CMC Motors could present opportunities for new players. Ultimately, the resilience and adaptability of the Kenyan automotive industry will determine its ability to navigate these complexities and realize its potential as a key contributor to the nation’s economy.

References:

Maudhui House Mobius Motors gears up for a comeback with new model launches

Maudhui House Why CMC Motors Group is closing shop in East Africa

New Vision CMC Motors winds down operations in East Africa

Launch Base Africa From Near-Closure to New Ownership: Kenya’s Mobius Motors Sold to Middle East Investors in Rescue Bid

Autos Kenya Kenya and Japan Forge Industrial Collaboration Through Policy Dialogue

African Development Bank Group, Africa’s Automotive Industry: Potential and Challenges PDF

Business Daily How Kenya can fast-track its automotive manufacturing growth


2025 WRC Safari Rally: Kenya’s Grand Motorsport Celebration

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Kenya is gearing up to welcome the world for the 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally, taking place in Naivasha from 20th to 23rd of March 2025. This isn’t just another race; it’s a celebration of Kenya’s motorsport heritage, a testament to the country’s resilience, and a golden opportunity to showcase its stunning natural beauty to a global audience. Imagine the thrill of high-speed rally cars navigating the challenging terrain, the vibrant colors of Kenyan culture, and the warm hospitality of the people. As the engines roar and the dust settles, Kenya anticipates a significant economic boost, with the rally projected to inject a staggering Sh7 billion into the local economy. This influx of revenue will create jobs, support local businesses, and attract tourists from all corners of the world, further solidifying Kenya’s position as a premier tourist destination.

A review of the Best Action from the 2024 Edition WRC Safari Rally by DirtFish

The Safari Rally holds a special place in Kenya’s history, dating back to 1953 when it was first run as the East African Coronation Safari. This legendary rally, known for its demanding terrain and unpredictable weather, has tested the mettle of some of the greatest rally drivers in history, including the likes of Shekhar Mehta and Tommi Mäkinen. This year, organizers have introduced two new stages to the rally, a 5km shakedown at Camp Moran and an 8km race at Morendat Farm, promising an adrenaline-pumping spectacle for both seasoned rally enthusiasts and newcomers alike. President William Ruto will flag off the rally at City Hall Way in Nairobi, a change from the traditional flag-off location, bringing the excitement closer to the heart of the city and making it more accessible to fans.

But the 2025 WRC Safari Rally is more than just a thrilling race; it’s a testament to Kenya’s commitment to sustainable development and community engagement. Organizers are implementing measures to minimize the environmental impact of the rally, ensuring that the pristine landscapes that make Kenya so unique are protected for generations to come. Furthermore, the rally is creating numerous opportunities for local communities, with job creation in various sectors such as marshalling, hospitality, and logistics. Local businesses are also set to benefit from the influx of tourists and rally enthusiasts, contributing to the overall economic growth of the region. With its blend of high-octane action, rich history, and community involvement, the 2025 WRC Safari Rally is poised to be a resounding success, leaving a lasting legacy for Kenya and its people. As the Swahili saying goes, “Harakaharaka haina baraka,” meaning “Hurry hurry has no blessings.” This embodies the spirit of the rally, reminding us that true success comes with patience, perseverance, and a deep appreciation for the journey.

References:

RedBull This is the WRC calendar 2025

WRC Safari Rally Kenya: A WRC icon through the ages

Safari Rally Kenya KCB Commits KShs. 209 Million to 2025 Safari Rally

The Future of Flying Taxis in Kenya

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Kenya’s ambitious leap into flying taxis represents a bold vision for the future of urban transportation, yet the road to reality will be lined with challenges that must be addressed. Public perception will remain a significant hurdle, as concerns over safety, noise pollution, and affordability will likely arise. The thought of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft zipping over Nairobi’s skyline is thrilling, but ensuring their seamless and safe integration into daily life will require rigorous regulatory oversight. The government will need to establish clear licensing standards, operational protocols, and designated air traffic management systems to prevent potential accidents and disruptions. Additionally, questions about infrastructure will linger—where will these flying taxis land, recharge, and undergo maintenance? While existing helipads and airports may serve as initial launch points, long-term success will hinge on purpose-built facilities that support the technology’s scalability. Moreover, cost accessibility will be a concern; unless operational expenses decrease, eVTOLs may remain a luxury service rather than a mass-market mobility solution. For flying taxis to gain widespread public acceptance, Kenya will need to implement strategic policies that address these concerns while ensuring that urban air mobility does not exacerbate existing social and economic inequalities.

A Report by South China Morning Post

Despite these challenges, the promise of flying taxis will be undeniable. Nairobi, infamous for its gridlocked streets, could see a dramatic reduction in congestion with the introduction of air taxis, potentially cutting a 90-minute journey down to just six minutes. The integration of eVTOLs into Kenya’s urban ecosystem will present immense potential—not just for passenger transport, but also for emergency response, cargo logistics, and tourism. In the future, medical evacuations could bypass traffic entirely, delivering critical aid in record time, while businesses might enjoy near-instantaneous cargo transfers between key commercial hubs. Furthermore, Kenya’s involvement in this cutting-edge sector could stimulate economic growth by attracting foreign investment, fostering local tech innovation, and creating high-skilled jobs in aviation, software development, and urban planning. However, this transformation will need to be approached with a holistic vision that prioritizes sustainability, accessibility, and synergy with existing transport networks. Simply shifting congestion from roads to the skies without thoughtful planning could lead to unforeseen urban planning challenges. Therefore, flying taxis should complement, rather than replace, public transit solutions, forming part of a well-integrated, multi-modal mobility system.

Kenya’s preparedness for this technological leap forward will determine how smoothly the transition to urban air mobility unfolds. Encouragingly, the nation has already established a regulatory framework for remotely piloted aircraft, positioning it ahead of many of its regional counterparts. Additionally, strategic partnerships with industry leaders such as Eve Urban Air Mobility Solutions will reflect a proactive approach to ensuring operational efficiency and safety. The KPMG Air Taxi Readiness Index will provide a crucial benchmark for assessing progress, helping policymakers identify gaps in infrastructure, legislation, and consumer acceptance. Learning from past transport disruptions—such as the chaotic introduction of electric scooters—Kenya will have the opportunity to proactively address regulatory and infrastructural needs before flying taxis become mainstream. By fostering public awareness, securing regulatory clarity, and investing in the necessary infrastructure, Kenya could cement its status as a trailblazer in Africa’s urban air mobility revolution. While hurdles will remain, the country’s commitment to innovation and strategic planning suggests that the dream of flying taxis is closer to reality than ever before.

References:

Business Daily Kenya Airways sets 2025 flying taxis launch date

CIO Africa Flying Car Infrastructure sees development in 13 countries including Kenya

The Electricity Hub Kenyan Airways to Buy 40 Electric Flying Taxis

Precedence Research Flying Bikes Market Size, Share, and Trends 2024 to 2034

Live Now Fox World’s first flying bike, inspired by ‘Star Wars’ franchise, hits market for $500K

India Times ‘XTURISMO’: Japanese Startup Makes World’s First Flying Bike

Herox The Future of Transit?: The Hover Bike

Kenyan Teachers Face Financial Crisis Amid Rising Deductions

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Kenyan teachers are grappling with a severe financial squeeze as rising salary deductions drastically slash their take-home pay, fueling widespread frustration and discontent. A key point of contention is the Social Health Authority (SHA) deduction, introduced in October 2024, which mandates a 2.75% contribution from gross salaries with no cap, replacing the previous National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) system. Teachers argue that the benefits do not justify the steep increase in costs, particularly when combined with other deductions, including pension contributions, the housing levy, and higher Pay As You Earn (PAYE) taxes. A teacher in Job Group C3, for instance, now takes home as little as Ksh23,936 from a gross salary of Ksh81,584 after deductions—an alarming reduction that makes affording basic necessities increasingly difficult. These financial strains have pushed teachers into the streets, with protests and strikes becoming more frequent as they demand relief from what they perceive as excessive and unfair financial burdens. Adding to their woes, a Ksh27 billion funding shortfall in the education sector has sparked fears of salary delays, compounding the already precarious situation.

A Citizen Digital Report

The financial crisis has also extended into the healthcare sector, where teachers have been hit by severe restrictions imposed by their insurance provider, Minet. In February 2025, teachers from six North Rift counties staged a two-week strike to protest the limitations placed on their access to medical care. Many were barred from seeking treatment outside designated Level 4 and Level 5 hospitals, leading to overcrowding and reduced quality of healthcare. The Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) and the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to address these grievances. Though the strike was called off after negotiations, many teachers remain skeptical about whether lasting solutions will be implemented. Meanwhile, teachers are still reeling from agency fee deductions imposed by the TSC in August 2024, which affected non-unionized primary school teachers, further exacerbating tensions between educators and the government. These financial deductions, coupled with a rising cost of living, have eroded the real value of teacher salaries over the years, even though Kenyan teachers remain among the best paid in East Africa. However, with over 50% of teachers concentrated in lower job groups earning between Ksh16,692 and Ksh29,918, concerns about career stagnation and wage disparity persist.

The government argues that these deductions are necessary to fund critical services and national development programs, yet teachers’ unions have fiercely opposed the lack of consultation and transparency in their implementation. Strikes and protests have become a common feature in the education sector, with KUPPET and KNUT repeatedly demanding better wages, improved working conditions, and a review of the 2021-2025 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). The revised deductions system—implemented in phases since 2023—has seen the introduction of new NSSF rates, a 1.5% housing levy, and the removal of tax reliefs, further squeezing teachers’ earnings. The mounting dissatisfaction highlights a deeper structural issue: the delicate balance between revenue generation and employee welfare. Possible solutions include policy reforms to ease the tax burden on lower-income earners, transparent negotiations between the government and teachers’ unions, and alternative funding mechanisms such as public-private partnerships. As Kenya navigates this crisis, the outcome of these discussions will be critical in determining the future of the country’s education sector and the financial well-being of its teachers.

References:

The Standard Teachers lament over shrinking payslips as SHA deductions begin

Kenyans.co.ke Teachers Threaten Strike in 6 North Rift Counties Over Insurance

Business Daily Payslip deductions set to add burden on struggling Kenyan employees

Kenyans.co.ke Employed Kenyans Face Further Salary Decrease as SHA Deductions Take Effect

Nation Kenyan teachers not that badly paid, data shows

Business Daily Hospitals turn away teachers, police over unpaid claims


Kenyans Trapped: The Dark Reality of Job Scams in Myanmar

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Kenyans, desperate for better economic opportunities, are falling prey to elaborate human trafficking schemes that promise lucrative jobs in Southeast Asia. Lured by online advertisements for positions as teachers, translators, or clerks, they pay exorbitant fees for visas and airfare, believing they are embarking on a path to a brighter future. Instead, they are met with a cruel reality upon arrival, trafficked into Myanmar and forced to work in scam compounds run by criminal cartels. These compounds, often located in remote areas controlled by armed groups, become prisons where victims endure horrific conditions, forced to participate in online scams under threat of torture, beatings, and even death . Those who fail to meet their daily quotas face unimaginable cruelty, with accounts of torture involving stun batons, baseball bats, and hot wax poured on wounds. One Kenyan escapee revealed a compound holding approximately 1,000 people of various nationalities, including 23 fellow Kenyans, all subjected to this brutal regime.  

A Report by Mutembei TV on Youtube

The Kenyan government, through the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, is actively working to repatriate its citizens. However, their efforts are hampered by the volatile situation in Myanmar, including the ongoing civil war and the closure of the Thai-Myanmar border following a mass rescue operation . This closure has left 64 rescued Kenyans stranded in makeshift military camps at the border, facing dire conditions with limited access to basic necessities like medical facilities, clean water, and sanitation . While a multi-agency team has finalized plans to facilitate the return of the victims, budget constraints pose a significant challenge, with a reported shortfall in the funds allocated for repatriating Kenyans stranded abroad . The government is also grappling with the issue of Kenyans held for ransom by traffickers, with reports of captors demanding exorbitant sums for their release.

This crisis demands immediate and multifaceted action. The Kenyan government must prioritize the allocation of resources to ensure the safe and swift return of its citizens. Collaboration with international organizations and neighboring countries is crucial to navigate the complexities of the conflict zone and secure the release of those held captive. Furthermore, raising public awareness about the dangers of these scams is paramount. Kenyans must be educated on how to verify job offers and urged to exercise extreme caution when considering overseas employment opportunities. This requires a collaborative effort involving government agencies, media outlets, and community organizations to disseminate information and empower individuals to make informed decisions. Ultimately, this is a call to action for collective responsibility to protect vulnerable Kenyans from falling prey to these ruthless trafficking networks and to ensure their safe return home.  

References:

The East African Dear East Africans, there are no jobs in Thailand – it’s a trapdoor into bondage in Myanmar

The East African More Kenyans rescued from human trafficking in Myanmar amid growing concerns

Kenya News Agency Efforts to repatriate stranded Kenyans in Myanmar underway

Bangkok Post Tortured Kenyan flees Myanmar call scam gang into Thailand

The East African 64 more Kenyans rescued from Myanmar slave camps, stranded at Thailand border







Inclusive Foreign Policy in Kenya: Balancing Power and Engagement

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Kenya finds itself at a pivotal point in its foreign policy journey, striving to reconcile its aspirations for a more inclusive approach with the enduring reality of presidential dominance . While President Ruto champions a “whole-of-society” approach, involving Parliament, the Judiciary, and civil society in foreign policy decisions, the long-standing centralization of authority in the presidency raises questions about the government’s commitment to inclusivity . This tension is further complicated by domestic political pressures, regional security challenges , and the evolving global landscape, where the rise of new powers like China demands greater diplomatic agility and strategic foresight .  

A Report by Thee Alpha House

Adding to this complexity, Ruto’s recent foreign policy actions, such as deploying troops to Haiti, have sparked controversy, raising concerns about prioritizing external interventions over domestic needs and aligning too closely with Western interests . This has fueled public discontent and raised questions about Kenya’s commitment to non-alignment and pan-Africanism . Moreover, Kenya faces the increasing influence of non-state actors, such as NGOs and multinational corporations, which can exert significant influence on policy through advocacy and economic power.  

Despite these challenges, Kenya has opportunities to enhance its foreign policy effectiveness. The recently approved Foreign Policy 2024 outlines a comprehensive vision for international engagement, focusing on economic diplomacy, peace diplomacy, and diaspora diplomacy, among other areas. It also emphasizes strengthening the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and improving training for diplomatic staff. To navigate this complex landscape effectively, Kenya should embrace evidence-based policymaking, enhance public diplomacy, increase citizen engagement, and foster strategic foresight, drawing from global best practices and addressing the contradictions in its foreign policy to emerge as a leader in Africa and a respected voice on the world stage.

References:

KBC Kenya’s foreign policy is determined by the President, says Wetang’ula

Sessional Paper No. 1 of 2025 on The Foreign Policy of the Republic of Kenya PDF

Megatrends Afrika Winning Hearts and Minds Abroad or at Home? Kenya’s Foreign Policy under William Ruto

CEPR Evidence-based policymaking in the US and UK

Norwich University 5 Key Approaches to Foreign Policy Analysis