Category Archives: Lifestyle

Evaluating Kenya’s Affordable Housing Program: Benefits and Risks

Posted on by

Kenya’s Affordable Housing Programme (AHP) has been framed by the government as a historic solution to the nation’s urban housing deficit — a bold, transformative plan to put 250,000 new housing units into the hands of low- and middle-income earners each year. It’s the crown jewel of the Kenya Kwanza administration’s economic agenda, wrapped in promises of job creation, urban renewal, and dignity for the working class. But behind the polished press briefings and televised groundbreakings, the cracks are showing. Critics argue the housing levy — a mandatory deduction from all salaried workers — amounts to taxation without representation, especially when access to the houses is uncertain and the projected costs remain largely unaffordable for the very people funding them. Worse still, the rollout has sparked deep anxiety over forced evictions, unclear beneficiary selection processes, and the growing fear that without proper planning, these “affordable” units may become vertical slums stacked over broken infrastructure. For many Kenyans, the project feels less like a social contract and more like a speculative bet — one where the house always wins, and it’s not the public holding the keys.

A Report by Citizen Digital

The legal and structural questions around the housing project are mounting. In 2023, the High Court ruled parts of the Affordable Housing Act unconstitutional — particularly the centralized levy collection through the Kenya Revenue Authority, which bypassed public participation and legislative oversight. While the government quickly responded with legislative tweaks, the shadow of that ruling lingers. Public trust in housing delivery remains fragile, especially given Kenya’s history with failed or stalled housing programs and ghost estates like the infamous Nyayo House projects. Though the state touts the initiative as “inclusive,” it is heavily reliant on public-private partnerships where the private sector bears little risk, while taxpayers shoulder both the capital and the consequences. Key policy watchdogs argue that the financing model lacks transparency, and that the absence of social safeguards could lead to gentrification and displacement, particularly in areas like Mukuru, Kibera, and Mathare where informal settlements sit on prime land now targeted for redevelopment. The big risk? That homes built in the name of the poor end up benefiting civil servants, politicians, and private investors — not the mama mboga or jua kali artisan.

If Kenya’s affordable housing dream is to succeed, it must move beyond brick-and-mortar targets and confront the human realities of affordability, transparency, and equity. The price tags on many units still outpace the average urban worker’s income. The so-called “affordable” category often starts at KSh 1.5M — a figure out of reach for most informal sector workers who make up over 80% of Kenya’s labor force. Meanwhile, the digitized application and allocation model, while meant to enhance fairness, risks excluding those without access to mobile money, smartphones, or stable identification — particularly the urban poor it claims to prioritize. Additionally, new housing developments are outpacing investments in transport, sewerage, schools, and hospitals, raising fears that these estates will quickly deteriorate into overpopulated, under-serviced high-rises. The government must urgently clarify allocation policies, invest in supporting infrastructure, and put people — not politics — at the center of the housing agenda. Because if “affordable housing” becomes just another ambitious slogan without delivery, it won’t just fail to fix the housing crisis — it will deepen Kenya’s already fractured urban future.

References:

KBC Completed number of affordable housing units down by half

The Eastleigh Voice Govt raises affordable housing research budget to Sh2.8bn amid credibility concerns

Capital News Ruto says handing over Housing units the most consequential day of his political career.

NTV Who got Ruto Mukuru houses? Not us, residents now claim

Citizen Digital Vertical slums: How new crop of apartments in Kilimani, Kileleshwa is affecting Nairobi’s infrastructure

Broken Chalk, Heavy Minds: Kenya’s Teachers Are Cracking Under Pressure

Posted on by

Behind the lesson plans, classroom chalkboards, and national curriculum reforms lies a worsening crisis no one wants to confront: the mental health of Kenyan teachers. While policymakers debate school infrastructure and CBC reforms, teachers — especially those deployed to remote hardship areas — are quietly slipping into psychological distress. Long hours, poor housing, insecurity, and administrative pressure are converging into what experts describe as a “mental health time bomb.” According to recent findings, over 25% of teachers in hardship zones exhibit symptoms of burnout, anxiety, or depression. This figure is likely underreported, given the stigma that still surrounds mental health discussions in the education sector. The harsh irony is that those tasked with nurturing the mental and emotional well-being of children are themselves emotionally depleted, working under punishing conditions with minimal support. For teachers posted to far-flung regions — from Turkana to Taita Taveta — the challenges aren’t just professional; they’re deeply personal. They’re living in fear of conflict, cut off from families, often without access to clean water or stable power — and still expected to deliver top academic outcomes.

A Report by K24TV

This psychological pressure has come to a head following a proposal by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to revise the hardship allowance structure. The proposal suggests reviewing and potentially reducing hardship allowances in counties where conditions are deemed to have “improved” — including several historically marginalized regions like Marsabit, Mandera, Isiolo, and Kilifi. This has sparked instant backlash from the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) and the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT), who argue that the proposed changes are tone-deaf and dangerous. Union leaders insist that the so-called improved areas still suffer from chronic insecurity, food scarcity, poor health services, and deplorable living conditions. Cutting allowances under these conditions, they argue, will only deepen teacher shortages, worsen morale, and push more educators into psychological breakdown. Already, high turnover and transfer requests plague hardship regions — not because teachers don’t care, but because they are exhausted, isolated, and unsupported. The allowance, for many, is the only remaining incentive tethering them to these underserved regions. Removing or reducing it, without real infrastructure or support investment, is like cutting the safety net and hoping no one falls.

But the issue isn’t just about allowances — it’s about the invisible costs of neglecting teacher welfare. As mental health deteriorates and professional burnout spikes, teaching quality suffers, student outcomes drop, and entire communities are affected. What’s urgently needed is not just an economic rethink of allowances, but a national teacher wellness policy. Mental health support must be built into education sector planning, especially for those in high-stress deployments. That means professional counseling access, more humane deployment cycles, structured leave, and peer support programs. The government must stop treating teachers as expendable cogs in the machinery of curriculum delivery — and start seeing them as human beings, whose mental strength is foundational to national development. Education reform can’t succeed on exhausted minds and broken morale. Kenya cannot afford to ignore this crisis in its classrooms any longer.

References:

The Standard Teachers fume over plan to slash their hardship allowance

Kenyans.co.ke Teachers Threaten to Strike as Push and Pull On Hardship Allowance Intensifies

The Eastleigh Voice Teachers unions reject govt plan to reclassify hardship areas without consultation

The Clash Between Art and Authority in Kenyan Schools

Posted on by

The 2025 censorship of Echoes of War, a play by Butere Girls High School, marks a flashpoint in Kenya’s long-standing tensions between youthful artistic expression and state authority. Despite winning top honors at the Western Region level of the Kenya National Schools and Colleges Drama Festival, the play was abruptly barred from proceeding to the national stage. Written by former senator and seasoned dramatist Cleophas Malala—who also penned the previously banned Shackles of Doom—Echoes of War was a bold allegory set in a fictional kingdom grappling with generational tensions and authoritarian rule. Its protagonist, Mustafa, a university student and tech innovator, challenges the regime’s rigidity with digital solutions like telemedicine, while his ally Anifa Imana mobilizes public opinion through social media. The play’s futuristic and radical tone, its incorporation of AI characters, and its critique of entrenched leadership struck a nerve with education officials. Events took a darker turn when police forcibly disrupted the school’s participation in Nakuru, deploying tear gas, arresting journalists, and detaining Malala despite a valid High Court order authorizing the play’s staging. The students’ response—singing the national anthem and then walking out—symbolized a defiant act of resistance that reverberated far beyond the festival venue, turning a school play into a national spectacle and sparking widespread outrage over the apparent state-sanctioned suppression of minors.

A Report by Nation

To understand the gravity of this moment, one must view it through the historical lens of Kenyan theatre, where censorship has long been wielded to curtail dissenting voices, especially those emanating from younger, politically aware generations. The Kenya Schools and Colleges Drama Festival, established in 1959, was originally a colonial import modeled on British educational theatre, excluding African voices until the early 1970s. It became a crucible of radical expression in the post-independence years, especially after the historic 1971 victory of Olkirkenyi, the first indigenous play to win at the national level. Throughout the late 20th century, plays became a subtle yet powerful means for students and teachers to comment on societal issues—ranging from tribalism to corruption and inequality—often using metaphor, allegory, and traditional performance styles. However, successive regimes, particularly under the KANU government and President Moi, treated such works as subversive. Prominent playwrights like Ngugi wa Thiong’o were jailed or exiled for dramatizing the suffering of the poor and critiquing the status quo. Plays like Makwekwe and Shackles of Doom were famously banned, with their writers and adjudicators fleeing or facing arrest. The state’s fear of theatre has historically stemmed from its ability to unify, mobilize, and awaken young minds—an effect amplified when performed by students within national platforms.

What happened in Nakuru in 2025 is a modern echo of this legacy, but it also highlights new dynamics in the ongoing struggle for creative freedom. Unlike past generations, today’s students are more connected, more media-literate, and more aware of their rights, particularly through digital platforms that allow them to share their voices widely and instantly. This context raises the stakes of state censorship. It is no longer just a question of restricting a school play but of suppressing a broader youth movement grounded in performance, protest, and political consciousness. The state’s justification for the ban—Malala’s role as a non-teacher and allegations of script alteration—rings hollow when contrasted with the overwhelming legal, civic, and public support for the students. The High Court’s intervention and the public’s reaction, including condemnation from Chief Justice Martha Koome, human rights organizations, and political leaders across the spectrum, reflect a society that is increasingly unwilling to tolerate authoritarian overreach in education and the arts. If anything, the incident has catalyzed a reexamination of the role of drama in education, with calls growing louder for student-centered authorship, institutional accountability, and a reformed regulatory framework that nurtures, rather than punishes, expressive courage. In this light, Echoes of War is not just a play—it is a clarion call, and how the nation responds will shape the cultural and civic landscape of Kenya’s future.

References:

Nation Echoes of War: The script of the play government doesn’t want you to watch

BBC Kenya police fire tear gas during school drama competition

Capital News Tension in Nakuru as Journalists, public barred from viewing ‘Echoes of War’ play

Citizen Digital Echoes of war: No photos or videos of Drama Festivals as Butere girls set to perform

The Crisis of Unemployment in Kenya’s Psychology Sector

Posted on by

Kenya’s mental health sector presents a striking paradox: despite the growing recognition of mental health challenges and an increasing demand for psychological services, psychology graduates continue to face significant unemployment and underemployment. This contradiction is rooted in deep-seated structural issues that systematically undermine the profession, making it difficult for trained psychologists to secure stable, well-paying jobs. One of the primary factors contributing to this crisis is the severe lack of job opportunities within both the public and private sectors. Many organizations, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and educational institutions, employ only a minimal number of psychologists, often restricting these roles to one or two individuals per institution. This results in a highly competitive job market where only the most experienced professionals stand a chance of securing employment, leaving recent graduates with limited options. Additionally, the financial sustainability of private practice is severely threatened by the prevalence of free or low-cost counseling services offered by religious institutions, non-governmental organizations, and community-based groups. While these services play a crucial role in expanding access to mental healthcare, they inadvertently undermine the ability of qualified psychologists to establish viable independent practices. Consequently, many graduates are unable to leverage their expertise in the field, often resorting to working in unrelated sectors, taking on temporary and poorly remunerated jobs, or abandoning the profession altogether despite their years of specialized training.

A Citizen Digital Report on Mental Health Awareness

A major challenge compounding this issue is the lack of a structured and regulated career pathway for psychology graduates, which creates uncertainty for both practitioners and potential employers. Unlike other fields such as medicine, law, or engineering, where licensing and professional development are clearly defined, psychology remains a largely unstructured profession in Kenya. The absence of standardized guidelines for internships, supervised practice, and professional accreditation means that many graduates complete their studies without the practical experience necessary to meet employer expectations. This situation is further exacerbated by the commercialization of mental health services, where some institutions prioritize financial gain over the provision of quality care. This business-oriented approach has led to exploitative employment conditions, where psychologists are often hired on short-term contracts with little job security, minimal benefits, and unrealistic workloads. Furthermore, some rehabilitation centers and private institutions reportedly prefer hiring new graduates on temporary terms rather than renewing contracts with existing employees, ostensibly as a cost-cutting measure to avoid higher salary commitments. These systemic challenges not only create instability within the profession but also discourage qualified individuals from remaining in the field, ultimately reducing the availability of experienced professionals in the country’s mental health workforce. As a result, Kenya continues to experience a significant gap between the increasing need for psychological services and the limited number of trained professionals who can afford to remain in practice under these conditions.

Addressing these issues requires comprehensive structural reforms aimed at professionalizing the psychology field and integrating it more effectively into Kenya’s healthcare and social support systems. First, policymakers must acknowledge the critical role of psychology in national development and mental well-being by increasing investment in mental health services, expanding employment opportunities within public institutions, and ensuring that psychologists are recognized as essential healthcare providers. Universities should also play a more active role in bridging the gap between academic training and practical application by incorporating robust internship programs, mentorship opportunities, and entrepreneurial training to equip graduates with the necessary skills to navigate the job market. Additionally, regulatory bodies should establish a standardized licensing framework to ensure that all psychology professionals meet clear competency standards while also receiving fair remuneration and workplace protections. By implementing these reforms, Kenya can begin to address the persistent challenges facing psychology graduates, ensuring that their skills and expertise are fully utilized to meet the country’s growing mental health needs. Failure to take action will not only continue to render psychology graduates underemployed but will also undermine the long-term development of the mental health sector, leaving thousands of Kenyans without access to qualified psychological care at a time when it is needed more than ever.

References:

Nation Psychology graduates struggle to get jobs in Kenya

Nation THE SILENT SCREAM OF KENYA’S PSYCHOLOGY GRADUATES

The Star Tales of despair for Kenyan graduates seeking jobs

Johnson & Johnson Building health worker capacity to close the mental healthcare gap across Kenya

Children’s Toys in Kenya: A Cancer Risk Uncovered

Posted on by

A shocking new report has just been released, sending alarm bells ringing across Kenya. Environmental activists are urgently warning that many children’s toys currently on sale are riddled with cancer-causing chemicals, most notably phthalates, according to the groundbreaking ‘Dangerous Fun: A Price of Play’ study. This investigation, conducted by CEJAD, ARNIKA, and IPEN, meticulously analyzed a range of popular PVC plastic toys – from dolls and inflatable playthings to teething rings and even a Spiderman costume – and the results are deeply disturbing. Every single toy tested contained phthalates, insidious chemicals used to soften plastic, alongside a cocktail of other hazardous substances including UV stabilizers, chlorinated paraffin, and toxic heavy metals. These aren’t just trace amounts; the inflatable Spiderman suit was found to be saturated with these dangerous additives at levels far exceeding safe limits. This revelation demands immediate attention from every parent and caregiver in Kenya: the very items we entrust to our children for joy and development may be silently poisoning them.

A Report by Curiosity Chronicles

The medical implications of these findings are profound and deeply concerning. Phthalates are not inert substances; they are known endocrine disruptors, meaning they interfere with the delicate hormonal systems that govern growth, development, reproduction, and even the immune system. Exposure to these chemicals, particularly during the critical developmental stages of childhood, has been linked in numerous scientific studies to a terrifying array of health problems. These include an increased risk of certain cancers, harm to children’s reproductive development, impaired immune system function, and potential damage to the liver and kidneys. Young children are especially vulnerable as they often mouth toys, leading to direct ingestion of these toxins. Furthermore, exposure can occur through skin contact and inhalation of chemical vapors released from the plastic. The fact that all tested toys contained phthalates underscores a widespread and systemic problem, demanding urgent action to protect the health and future of Kenyan children who are unknowingly being exposed to these hazardous substances through their everyday playthings.

This is not a matter to be taken lightly. The time for complacency is over. Parents must be empowered with knowledge to make informed choices, and this report serves as a stark wake-up call. We urgently need comprehensive public awareness campaigns to educate families about the dangers lurking in these seemingly harmless toys and how to identify safer alternatives. Simultaneously, policymakers and the Kenya Bureau of Standards must act decisively to strengthen regulations on the chemical content of children’s products, ensuring stricter limits and thorough enforcement to prevent these toxic toys from reaching our markets. Manufacturers and retailers must also be held accountable for the safety of their products, prioritizing the health of children over profit. The ‘Dangerous Fun’ report has laid bare a serious threat to the well-being of Kenya’s youngest citizens. We must collectively demand and enact immediate changes to ensure that play remains a source of joy and development, not a pathway to potential life-threatening illnesses. The health of our children is non-negotiable.

References:

Jijuze Children’s Health at Risk: The Impact of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals in Personal Care Products

The Star Your child’s toys may contain cancer-causing chemicals, activists warn

Kenya News Agency Study reveals harmful chemicals in plastic toys

Vaccines Work Plastics are invading our bodies, not just our oceans

IPEN Highly Toxic Chemicals from Plastic Waste Contaminate Kenya’s Food Chain and Products

EACOP Insights: Funding Strategies for Kenya’s Oil Sector

Posted on by

In a significant stride for East African energy, Uganda’s ambitious East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project has recently secured a crucial funding boost, signaling a move towards the realization of this multi-billion dollar infrastructure. This development offers a wealth of insights for neighboring Kenya, which also harbors considerable aspirations in the oil and gas sector. While Uganda’s EACOP has navigated a complex landscape of financing challenges and environmental concerns to reach this milestone, Kenya’s own oil development plans, particularly in the South Lokichar basin, have faced delays and the withdrawal of key investors. The contrasting progress underscores a valuable opportunity for Kenya to learn from Uganda’s experience, especially in securing the necessary financial backing and managing the intricate environmental and social considerations that come with large-scale energy projects. As Kenya seeks to tap into its hydrocarbon resources for economic growth, the strategies employed and the hurdles overcome by the EACOP project provide a compelling case study in the realities of the regional energy landscape.

A Report by EACOP (March 2025)

Several key lessons emerge for Kenya from Uganda’s journey. Securing funding in an era of increasing climate consciousness requires a diversified approach, potentially looking beyond traditional Western financial institutions to engage with regional banks and explore partnerships with entities that have different investment priorities. Furthermore, proactively addressing environmental and social concerns through transparent impact assessments, robust mitigation plans, and genuine community engagement is paramount to minimize opposition and enhance project bankability. Uganda’s experience highlights the critical need for a strong and consistent government commitment, coupled with a stable and predictable regulatory environment, to build investor confidence. For Kenya, this means streamlining regulatory processes, ensuring policy consistency, and prioritizing the implementation of stringent environmental standards and community-focused initiatives from the outset. Building strong and stable relationships with international oil companies, ensuring transparency in agreements, and investing in essential infrastructure are also crucial takeaways for Kenya as it navigates the complexities of developing its oil and gas sector.

However, Uganda’s EACOP project has not been without its challenges, facing significant environmental opposition and concerns about social displacement. These potential pitfalls offer further learning points for Kenya. Proactive engagement with environmental stakeholders, prioritizing fair compensation and resettlement plans for affected communities, and striving for maximum transparency in all aspects of the oil and gas sector are essential to avoid similar controversies. Kenya must also be mindful of the broader risks associated with resource extraction, such as the “resource curse,” and implement sound economic policies to ensure long-term sustainable development. By carefully analyzing Uganda’s experience – both its successes in securing funding and the controversies it has faced – Kenya can strategically refine its own approach to oil and gas development, aiming for a path that is both economically beneficial and environmentally and socially responsible, ultimately positioning itself as a stable and attractive player in the regional energy market.

References:

Reuters Uganda’s $5 billion EACOP pipeline gets funding boost

Monitor EACOP secures funding as Uganda eyes oil production next year 

Jijuze Kenya’s Oil and Gas Ambitions: Opportunities and Challenges

Pumps Africa Kenya to restart licensing of oil and gas blocks

UN Environment Programme Greasing the wheels of Kenya’s nascent oil and gas sector

Pipeline & Gas Journal EACOP Secures First Tranche of Funding for $5 Billion Uganda-Tanzania Pipeline

Kenya Faces Crisis After USAID Funding Withdrawal

Posted on by

The abrupt cessation of funding from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has sent shockwaves through Kenya, marking a significant turning point in the country’s development trajectory. The decision by the US government to terminate approximately 83% of USAID’s global contracts has had an immediate and profound impact, with Kenya ranking as the seventh most affected nation worldwide, underscoring its heavy reliance on donor funding for crucial sectors. The sheer scale of the withdrawal, encompassing the cancellation of numerous projects across health, education, economic development, and governance, has left a void that will be challenging to fill. Organizations on the ground, such as CFK Africa, have reported widespread panic and uncertainty as essential healthcare services, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, face severe disruptions . The sudden halt has not only jeopardized the continuation of vital programs but has also resulted in significant job losses, with estimates suggesting that at least 35,000 Kenyans working in USAID-funded initiatives are now facing unemployment . This abrupt departure of a major development partner has ignited discussions about the long-term sustainability of Kenya’s development and the urgent need for alternative strategies.  

A Citizen Digital Report

The health sector in Kenya is bearing the brunt of the USAID funding freeze, with potentially devastating consequences for the progress made over the past two decades, particularly in combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic. While the US has allocated $66 million to HIV/AIDS programs in Kenya for 2025, this represents a significant decrease from the $846 million provided in 2023, signaling a concerning downward trend. The World Health Organization (WHO) had earlier warned that Kenya was among several countries at risk of running out of essential HIV drugs due to the aid pause, potentially undoing years of hard-won gains and leading to a resurgence of the disease. The termination has severely impacted the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which relies heavily on USAID’s logistical support, leading to an immediate halt in HIV treatment, testing, and prevention services across more than 50 countries. Reports from organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) paint a grim picture of service shutdowns and treatment disruptions, leaving millions of vulnerable individuals without access to life-saving medications and care . The situation is further compounded by existing shortages of some HIV drugs within the country, creating a perfect storm that threatens to overwhelm the healthcare system .  

Beyond the immediate crisis in the health sector, the USAID funding cuts are expected to have far-reaching long-term repercussions across Kenya’s social and economic landscape . Programs supporting maternal and child health, tuberculosis and malaria control, water and sanitation, education, and economic development are all facing significant funding shortfalls . The termination of initiatives aimed at improving primary literacy, supporting smallholder farmers, and promoting trade and investment will hinder progress in these crucial areas . The Kenyan government now faces immense pressure to find alternative funding sources and implement sustainable development strategies to mitigate the impact of this significant withdrawal of aid . This necessitates a concerted effort to strengthen domestic resource mobilization, diversify international partnerships, engage the private sector, and foster local innovation to ensure the continued well-being and progress of the nation .

References:

The Star Kenya 7th most affected by US aid freeze

Aljazeera USAID’s demise raises fears for millions of lives across the Global South

Capital Business USAID funding halt to hit Kenya’s economy, social sectors – report

Nation USAID funding cuts disrupt vulnerable rural livelihoods in Turkana

Think Global Health Life After USAID: Africa’s Development, Education, and Health Care

Reliefweb CFK Africa Witnesses Devastating Effects in Kenya from End of U.S. Agency for International Development Support

Willow Health Media USAID Shut for Good: Millions at risk in Kenya, thousands jobless overnight 













Concerns Over Kenya’s Competency-Based Curriculum Implementation

Posted on by

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 Flying Taxis in Kenya

Posted on by

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

Illegal Charcoal Trade Threatens Kenya’s Environment

Posted on by

Kenya’s charcoal industry is a critical part of the nation’s economy, employing roughly 700,000 people and generating over US$427 million annually. It stands as the fourth largest source of revenue, following tourism, horticulture, and tea. About 1.4 million Kenyan households depend on charcoal as their primary cooking fuel. The charcoal trade involves a complex network of actors, with wood producers harvesting trees, often illegally, charcoal producers converting the wood to charcoal using kilns, and transporters moving the charcoal to urban centers where it is sold to wholesalers and ultimately to consumers. However, this economic reliance comes at a significant environmental cost. The high demand for charcoal has fueled unsustainable practices, leading to widespread deforestation and the destruction of vital ecosystems.  

A Citizen Digital Report

Despite government efforts to regulate the industry through measures like the Forest (Charcoal) Rules of 2009, which require charcoal producers to obtain licenses and implement reforestation plans, illegal charcoal production continues to thrive. This illicit trade is driven by organized crime, with cartels involving corrupt officials and even terrorist organizations in neighboring Somalia. These cartels operate with impunity, often bribing officials and forging permits to circumvent regulations. The environmental impact is devastating, with large-scale tree felling threatening the survival of numerous tree species, including the Acacia, and leading to the destruction of vital water catchment areas . Deforestation also contributes to climate change by releasing stored carbon into the atmosphere.

The Kajiado wildlife migration corridor, a vital dispersal area for elephants and other wildlife moving between Amboseli and Maasai Mara National Parks, is particularly vulnerable to the destructive impacts of illegal charcoal burning. In Kajiado, a cartel involving local chiefs, Kenya Forestry Service officers, police, and some politicians has been reported to target private and communal land for charcoal production. Combating this challenge requires a multi-pronged approach. Increased patrols and law enforcement are crucial to deter illegal activities and apprehend offenders. Community engagement and education can raise awareness about the importance of protecting biodiversity. Promoting alternative livelihoods, such as ecotourism and sustainable agriculture, can reduce reliance on charcoal production. Supporting sustainable charcoal production practices and promoting alternative energy sources are also essential components of a comprehensive strategy to address this complex issue.

References:

Institute for Security Studies Kenya’s charcoal bans have fuelled a smuggling problem

The East African Illegal logging, charcoal burning destroying East Africa’s forests

IFAW Maasai community commits to protecting last remaining wildlife corridor between Amboseli and the Mara

ENACT Observer Flora / Going deeper underground: why Kenya’s charcoal bans don’t work

Global Initiative The life of a Kenyan charcoal transporter: a crucial role in a vast, vital and criminalized market.