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Village Elders Set for Monthly Stipend Under New Government Plan

Kipkemboi Collins
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Village Elders Set for Monthly Stipend Under New Government Plan

The government has proposed a monthly stipend of Ksh 3,000 for village elders in a move aimed at formally recognising their role in supporting local administration and community security across the country.

The proposal was presented before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security during the scrutiny of the 2026/2027 budget estimates at Parliament Buildings on Wednesday.

Government Moves to Formalise Village Elders’ Role
Interior PS Raymond Omollo said the programme is expected to benefit approximately 110,000 village elders nationwide if approved by Parliament.

According to Omollo, the Ministry of Interior has already developed a policy framework and criteria for identifying village elders after years of consultations and public participation.

“The conversation about village elders began in 2016 and the House actually gave directions to the ministry. It has taken almost 10 years to get us here,” he told the committee.

The stipend is expected to take effect in the next financial year, with the government having already made budgetary provisions for the initiative.

“Our expectation is that we will be giving a stipend of KSh 3,000 to each village elder and the amount that has been provisioned for will be almost enough to take us through the whole year,” said Omollo.

The PS noted that only elders not already benefiting from other government support programmes, such as the elderly social safety net or community health promoter initiatives, would qualify for the payments.

Village Elders Set for Monthly Stipend Under New Government Plan
Village Elders Set for Monthly Stipend Under New Government Plan

Push for Higher Pay
MPs, however, argued that the proposed amount should be increased to match the stipends currently paid to community health promoters.

Committee Chairperson and Narok West MP Gabriel Tongoyo described the proposal as a major milestone but said the amount should ideally be enhanced.

“We had nothing before, but maybe we should have put them at par with the community health promoters,” he said.

Teso North MP Oku Kaunya also backed calls for an increase, suggesting that village elders be paid KSh 5,000 monthly if they are formally anchored within the National Administration structure.

“I hope they are anchored within the National Administration structure. If that is the case, then I would support the idea that they need to have an enhanced amount to Ksh 5,000,” said Kaunya.

Tongoyo acknowledged that raising the stipend to Ksh 5,000 would increase the annual budget to between Ksh 5.5 billion and Ksh 6 billion but noted that discussions with the Budget Committee and the National Treasury could still be pursued.

Lawmakers nevertheless welcomed the initiative, describing it as the first formal government effort to recognize village elders, who have historically served voluntarily alongside chiefs and assistant chiefs in maintaining security and local administration.

 

DPP Charges Nairobi Water Artisan Over Forged KCSE Certificate Used to Earn Ksh 5.9 Million

Kipkemboi Collins
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DPP Charges Nairobi Water Artisan Over Forged KCSE Certificate Used to Earn Ksh 5.9 Million

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has charged an artisan employed by the Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company over allegations of using a forged KCSE certificate to secure employment and earn more than Ksh 5.9 million in salary.

Joshua Attuah Omia was charged with multiple offences, including fraudulent acquisition of public property, forgery, uttering a false document, deceiving a principal, and presenting a forged certificate.

Prosecution Details Salary Fraud Claims
According to the prosecution, Omia fraudulently earned Ksh 5,909,037.10 in salary between August 2015 and December 31, 2023, while working at Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company Limited.

The prosecution alleges that the payments were obtained unlawfully after he secured employment using a fake KCSE certificate purportedly issued by the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC).

The Court documents state that the accused allegedly forged a KCSE certificate bearing a mean grade of C minus and presented it as a genuine document issued by KNEC.

He was also accused of uttering a false document, namely KCSE certificate number KSCE518142, in the name of Omia A. Joshua.

DPP Charges Nairobi Water Artisan Over Forged KCSE Certificate Used to Earn Ksh 5.9 Million
DPP Charges Nairobi Water Artisan Over Forged KCSE Certificate Used to Earn Ksh 5.9 Million
False Academic Qualifications Alleged
The ODPP further alleges that Omia knowingly deceived his employer by falsely claiming he had attained a Form Four qualification from Etete Secondary School between 1994 and 1997.

The court heard that on or about July 27, 2015, the accused submitted the alleged false academic details to Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company while updating his personnel records.

Prosecutors argue that the information was intentionally provided to maintain his employment within the public institution.

The charges form part of ongoing efforts by anti-corruption agencies and the ODPP to crack down on fraudulent acquisition of public employment and misuse of public funds through forged academic credentials.

Omia denied all the charges before the court. He was released on a bond of Ksh 1 million with a similar surety or an alternative cash bail of Ksh 300,000 pending the hearing and determination of the case.

The matter is scheduled for mention on May 27, 2027.

 

LSK Raises Alarm Over Rising Femicide and Gender-Based Violence in Kenya

Kipkemboi Collins
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LSK Raises Alarm Over Rising Femicide and Gender-Based Violence in Kenya

The Law Society of Kenya has raised concern over the growing number of femicide and gender-based violence cases reported across the country, describing the trend as a national crisis that requires urgent intervention.

In a written statement issued by the LSK President Charles Kanjama, the Society condemned what it termed an alarming escalation of violence targeting women and girls.

Kanjama pointed to recent cases of murder, intimate partner violence, and sexual assault that have sparked widespread public outrage and renewed calls for accountability.

Among the incidents highlighted was the killing of Alice Riang’a, a 20-year-old student at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology.

Her body was discovered in a thicket in Bondo on May 10, 2026, days after she had been reported missing. According to postmortem findings referenced in the statement, she suffered sexual assault and blunt force trauma.

The Society also referenced the deaths of Consolata Githinji in Kilimani, Nairobi, Davine Kwamboka in a suspected case of intimate partner violence, Anita in Nakuru following an alleged domestic assault, and Krystabel “Bella” Anyango, whose death reportedly followed a violent altercation linked to a troubled relationship.

According to the Society, the incidents collectively reveal a disturbing pattern of violence against women that continues to threaten constitutional rights, dignity, and personal security.

“These incidents are not isolated occurrences,” the statement read. “Behind every reported case is a life lost, a family devastated, and a society called into question.”

Calls for Immediate National Action
The LSK President criticised what he described as delayed interventions, weak investigative responses, and persistent impunity that continue to fuel the crisis.

He particularly expressed concern over the increasing brutality of attacks allegedly committed by intimate partners, spouses, acquaintances, and individuals known to victims.

Kanjama emphasised that violence against women should not be treated as a private matter, but rather as a gross violation of fundamental human rights protected under the Constitution of Kenya.

In response, the Society called on the National Government to treat femicide and gender-based violence as an urgent national emergency requiring coordinated and sustained action.

LSK Raises Alarm Over Rising Femicide and Gender-Based Violence in Kenya
LSK Raises Alarm Over Rising Femicide and Gender-Based Violence in Kenya

It further urged the National Police Service to conduct prompt, transparent, and victim-sensitive investigations, while calling on the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Judiciary to prioritise cases involving gender-based violence.

The Society also appealed to Parliament, county governments, educational institutions, religious leaders, and communities to strengthen prevention measures, survivor support systems, and public awareness initiatives.

LSK Pushes for Accountability and Reform
The Society reiterated the need for immediate implementation of recommendations made by the National Femicide Task Force, saying deeper structural reforms are necessary to address the root causes of violence against women and girls.

Through its Gender Committee, the Society said it will continue monitoring reported cases and advocating for justice for victims and survivors. It also revealed plans to appoint advocates to watch brief in ongoing cases to ensure accountability is upheld through the legal process.

“The continued loss of women’s lives through violence cannot and must never be normalised,” Kanjama stated, reaffirming its commitment to human rights, justice, and the rule of law.

 

Kenya Airways to Resume Dubai Flights

Kipkemboi Collins
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Kenya Airways to Resume Dubai Flights

Kenya Airways has announced the resumption of flights between Nairobi and Dubai, with operations set to restart today, May 14, 2026.

In an update issued by the airlines on May 13, 2026, the carrier confirmed that flights to and from Dubai will resume with daily frequencies between the two cities.

The airline stated that additional flight frequencies will be introduced progressively, depending on demand and operational requirements.

Daily Flights to Resume
According to the notice, Kenya Airways said the safety of its guests and crew remains its top priority as operations resume.

“The safety of our guests and crew remains our top priority, and we continue to work closely with the relevant authorities to ensure safe and seamless operations,” the airline said.

The resumption restores one of the airline’s key regional and international routes linking Kenya and the United Arab Emirates. Dubai remains an important destination for business travel, tourism, and cargo movement between East Africa and the Middle East.

Kenya Airways indicated that customers seeking bookings, enquiries, or travel assistance can access services through the airline’s website and the KQ Mobile App.

Passengers can also reach the airline’s Customer Excellence Team through its customer support numbers, including +254 711 024 747 and WhatsApp line +254 705 474 747.

The announcement comes as the national carrier continues efforts to maintain operational stability while rebuilding route consistency across its network.

Kenya Airways to Resume Dubai Flights
Kenya Airways to Resume Dubai Flights
Expansion to Depend on Demand
Kenya Airways did not indicate whether the resumed Dubai service will initially operate with any schedule adjustments beyond the confirmed daily frequencies.

However, the airline noted that future expansion on the route will depend on operational needs and customer demand.

The Dubai route is among the airline’s significant international connections and is expected to support passenger movement between Nairobi and the Gulf region as operations resumes.

 

Defence Committee Questions Ksh 5.3 Billion State Visits Expenditure

Kipkemboi Collins
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0
Defence Committee Questions Ksh 5.3 Billion State Visits Expenditure

The National Assembly’s Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee has raised concerns over Ksh 5.3 billion spent by the State Department for Foreign Affairs on State Visits during the 2025/2026 financial year.

The concerns emerged during a session held at Parliament Buildings on Wednesday as the Committee reviewed the Ministry’s budget estimates for the 2026/2027 financial year.

Led by Belgut MP Nelson Koech, Members questioned the growing expenditure on inbound and outbound State Visits, with some legislators arguing that part of the costs should instead fall under the State House budget.

Lagdera MP Abdikadir Mohamed challenged the spending structure, saying the Foreign Affairs department appeared to be carrying responsibilities that traditionally belong to State House.

Foreign Affairs Defends State Visit Spending
Foreign Affairs officials, led by Ambassador Josphat Maikara on behalf of PS Korir Sing’oei, defended the expenditure. They explained that the department only facilitates logistical arrangements once directives are issued by State House.

Senior Chief Finance Officer Mr. Aloyo told the Committee that the department handles accommodation, transport and meals for State delegations, while State House caters for advocacy and related engagements.

“We are not able to control the number of visits and their size. Once the allocated funds are exhausted, we are forced to borrow from other programmes, creating outstanding bills,” he said.

The Committee heard that the department had already spent Ksh 2.2 billion against an allocation of Ksh 1.8 billion in the current financial year. Officials further revealed that the department had been instructed to facilitate 11 more outbound State Visits before June 2026 at an estimated cost of Ksh 3.1 billion.

Defence Committee Questions Ksh 5.3 Billion State Visits Expenditure
Defence Committee Questions Ksh 5.3 Billion State Visits Expenditure
Lawmakers Question New Foreign Missions
The MPs also questioned development expenditure in the proposed 2026/2027 budget, particularly Ksh 60.82 million allocated for establishing a Kenyan mission in Hanoi, Vietnam, despite no ambassadorial appointment having been made.

Koech sought clarification on the purpose of the allocation, prompting Ambassador Maikara to explain that Cabinet had already approved the establishment of missions in Hanoi and Copenhagen, Denmark.

The Committee additionally directed the State Department to submit a detailed breakdown of allocations to all foreign missions for further scrutiny.

Meanwhile, the State Department for Diaspora Affairs requested an additional Ksh 639.4 million to support diaspora security programmes and anti-human trafficking interventions.

Baringo Central MP Joshua Kandie expressed concern over rising cases of human trafficking and fraudulent overseas job recruitment schemes targeting Kenyans.

In response, Ambassador Hellen Gichuhi said the department was working with agencies including the NIS, DCI, NEA and the State Department of Labour to combat trafficking. She added that additional funding would support safe houses, emergency evacuations and awareness campaigns.

Despite the requests, the department received only Ksh 80.6 million out of the Ksh 720 million sought for the interventions.

 

CS Duale Tables Health Budget Estimates for 2026/27

Kipkemboi Collins
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CS Duale Tables Health Budget Estimates for 2026/27

Health CS Aden Duale today presented the 2026/2027 Financial Year Revenue and Expenditure Estimates for the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Health.

The CS outlined ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening Kenya’s Taifa Care Model, anchored on preventive and promotive healthcare, improved policy and regulation, and enhanced coordination under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

He emphasized collaboration with development partners to accelerate delivery of priority health interventions and improve service efficiency across the country.

Call for Increased Health Financing and Workforce Investment
He stressed the need for increased investment in human resources for health and a reliable supply of essential medical commodities, noting these as critical enablers for achieving Universal Health Coverage.

Duale further highlighted that persistent disease burden and emerging public health threats continue to strain the system, necessitating stronger funding for surveillance, emergency preparedness, sanitation, and broader reforms.

Duale urged Parliament to protect key interventions such as immunization programmes from budget cuts during supplementary adjustments, warning that reductions could undermine gains in child and maternal health.

CS Duale Tables Health Budget Estimates for 2026/27
CS Duale Tables Health Budget Estimates for 2026/27

He also called for sustained funding to strengthen preventive health services and community-based interventions.

Accompanying him was PS for Public Health Mary Muthoni, ministry directors, chief executive officers, and senior technical officers who supported the presentation and defended sector priorities before the Committee.


Strengthening UHC Through Strategic Reforms
The CS reiterated that the Ministry is prioritizing reforms under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda to enhance equity in health financing, strengthen primary healthcare networks, and reduce out-of-pocket expenditure.

 

Kenya Backs Njoki Ndungu for ICC Judge Role

Kipkemboi Collins
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Kenya Backs Njoki Ndungu for ICC Judge Role

Kenya has formally launched a renewed bid for representation at the International Criminal Court (ICC) through the nomination of Lady Justice NJoki Ndungu, following what Chief Justice Martha Koome described as a deliberate, consultative, and merit-based national process.

The nomination signals Kenya’s return to the ICC judicial election cycle after the country opted not to field a candidate in 2022.

According to Koome, that decision was strategic and intended to allow more time for preparation, diplomatic engagement, and coordination between key State institutions.

Speaking during the event, Koome said the process involved close collaboration between the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, the Office of the President, and the Judiciary.

“We considered deferring the candidature in 2022 so that we could have sufficient time for reflection, diplomatic alignment, and preparation of a stronger and more coordinated national effort,” she said.

The Chief Justice added that Kenya believes “the time is now” to pursue renewed representation at the Hague-based court.

The nomination also builds on Kenya’s previous contribution to the ICC bench through the service of former judge Joyce Aluoch, who served at the court between 2009 and 2018. Her tenure remains one of Kenya’s most notable contributions to international justice.

Merit-Based Selection Anchored on Rome Statute
Koome said the current nomination process was initiated formally by the Attorney General following notification from the Assembly of State Parties.

The exercise was conducted in line with Article 36 of the Rome Statute and standards set by the Advisory Committee on Nominations of Judges.

Once the process was transmitted to the Judiciary, expressions of interest were invited from judges serving in Kenya’s superior courts.

Applications were then subjected to evaluation by the Judicial Service Commission before three names were forwarded for consideration by President William Ruto.

The eventual nomination of Lady Justice Njoki Ndungu, Koome said, emerged from a highly competitive and transparent process focused on professional competence, integrity, and international legal experience.

Kenya Backs Njoki Ndungu for ICC Judge Role
Kenya Backs Njoki Ndungu for ICC Judge Role
Diplomatic Coordination Shapes Kenya’s ICC Strategy
The renewed ICC push reflects Kenya’s broader diplomatic strategy to strengthen its influence within international legal institutions.

The coordinated strategy is expected to improve Kenya’s visibility among member states ahead of the ICC judicial elections.

The move also comes at a time when African states are seeking greater representation within international justice systems.

If successful, Lady Justice NJoki Ndungu would become the second Kenyan judge to serve at the ICC, reinforcing the country’s standing in global legal and judicial affairs.

Kenya’s campaign is now expected to intensify through diplomatic engagements with Assembly of State Parties members in the months leading to the elections.

 

World Cocktail Week: Easy Hosting Ideas for the Perfect Hangout

LifeLately Reporter
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World Cocktail Week: Easy Hosting Ideas for the Perfect Hangout
World Cocktail Week: Easy Hosting Ideas for the Perfect Hangout

As the world celebrates World Cocktail Week, many people are embracing simpler and more relaxed ways of hosting friends and family. Sometimes the best hangouts come down to good company, great music, easy food, and drinks that everyone can enjoy without too much effort.

While hosting sounds exciting, many people often end up spending too much time in the kitchen or constantly refilling drinks instead of enjoying the moment. However, a few simple preparations can make hosting easier and more enjoyable.

Setting the Mood for the Perfect Hangout

Every memorable hangout starts with the right atmosphere. A good playlist can help set the tone early in the evening before gradually building energy as guests settle in.

In addition, small details such as themed cups, playful stickers, oversized sunglasses, and comfortable seating arrangements can help guests feel relaxed and welcome.

Food and drinks also play a major role in shaping the experience. For many hosts, preparing drinks before guests arrive remains one of the easiest ways to avoid unnecessary stress during the event.

Simple cocktail serves continue to grow in popularity because they are easy to prepare and still deliver enjoyable flavours without complicated ingredients or advanced mixology skills.

One classic option is the Captain & Cola. The serve combines Captain Morgan Gold with chilled cola over ice for a smooth and familiar drink suited for casual gatherings, nyama choma sessions, and weekend house parties.

For those looking for something lighter, the Captain Lemonade offers a refreshing alternative. The mix combines Captain Morgan Gold with cold lemonade over ice to create a bright citrus flavour ideal for daytime gatherings and warm evenings.

Meanwhile, the Captain Mojito provides a more elevated option while still remaining simple to prepare. The cocktail blends Captain Morgan, mint, lime, and soda water to create a fresh and easy-drinking serve.

World Cocktail Week: Easy Hosting Ideas for the Perfect Hangout
World Cocktail Week: Easy Hosting Ideas for the Perfect Hangout
Food, Games and Shared Experiences Matter

Easy cocktail serves pair well with a variety of foods commonly enjoyed during social gatherings. Samosas, fish fingers, sliders, choma sausages, and chicken wings complement the smooth vanilla and caramel notes found in Captain Morgan Gold.

At the same time, entertainment often becomes the highlight of many gatherings. Simple games such as Jenga, trivia, or conversation cards can help guests interact naturally and create memorable moments throughout the night.

Ultimately, successful hangouts rarely depend on perfection. Instead, people often remember the laughter, conversations, and shared experiences long after the event ends.

As more consumers embrace relaxed hosting styles during World Cocktail Week, simple cocktails, easy food pairings, and low-pressure entertainment continue shaping modern social experiences.

Chief Registrar Pushes for Increased Judiciary Funding

Kipkemboi Collins
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0
Chief Registrar Pushes for Increased Judiciary Funding

The Chief Registrar of the Judiciary, Winfridah Mokaya, has called on Parliament to urgently address the Judiciary’s growing funding gap which continues to constrain the effective delivery of justice.

Speaking during an engagement with the Judiciary Legal Affairs Committee on the processing of the Financial Year 2026/2027 budget estimates, Mokaya said the Judiciary requires enhanced funding to effectively execute its constitutional mandate amid rising operational demands.

She emphasized that sufficient financial resources are critical in enabling courts and tribunals to operate efficiently, particularly as the country begins preparations for the 2027 elections.

Election Preparedness Takes Priority
A key focus of the FY 2026/27 budget estimates is electoral preparedness.

The Judiciary is seeking funding for election-related activities through the Judiciary Elections Committee (JCE) and the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal (PPDT), both of which are expected to play a central role in handling disputes arising before, during, and after the polls.

According to Mokaya, the allocations are necessary to ensure the Judiciary is institutionally ready to manage the anticipated increase in election petitions and political disputes without disrupting normal court operations.

The budget proposal also prioritizes the establishment and operationalization of new courts across the country. This includes facilitating newly recruited Judges and Magistrates to strengthen judicial capacity and improve access to justice at the grassroots level.

Chief Registrar Pushes for Increased Judiciary Funding
Chief Registrar Pushes for Increased Judiciary Funding
Expansion of Courts and ICT Services
The Judiciary is also seeking enhanced operational support for newly created tribunals and courts, alongside increased investment in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) services.

The Chief Registrar noted that digital systems remain critical in improving efficiency, reducing case backlog, and enhancing service delivery within the justice sector.

Over the past few years, the Judiciary has increasingly relied on ICT-driven processes such as virtual hearings, e-filing systems, and digital case management to streamline court operations.

The session was attended by several senior Judiciary officials, including the Director of Finance, the Registrar of the High Court, the Registrar of the Magistrates’ Court, the Registrar in the Office of the Chief Registrar, and other members of the Judiciary management team.

The engagement forms part of ongoing consultations between the Judiciary and Parliament over budget allocations for the upcoming financial year.

 

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