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Ruto Pitches Africa’s Vision at G7 Summit

President William Ruto has said Africa will attend the G7 Summit in Evian, France, with a clear and unified agenda focused on climate action, economic development, and technology governance.

Speaking ahead of the summit on June 16, 2026, Ruto described the gathering as one of the most consequential meetings in recent years, taking place at a time when global political and economic dynamics are rapidly shifting.

President Ruto said the summit builds on key discussions held on the continent over the past three years, particularly the Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi in 2023 and the Africa Forward Summit held last month.

According to Ruto, these forums enabled African leaders to consolidate their positions on critical global issues and define the continent’s role in shaping future international policies.

 

Climate Action Moves Beyond Victimhood
Ruto said Africa no longer wants to be viewed solely as a victim of climate change despite contributing the least to global emissions.

He noted that the Africa Climate Summit provided an opportunity for leaders and stakeholders to discuss practical solutions while positioning the continent as a key contributor to global climate action.

“We discussed how climate change affects Africa and how the continent can become a significant contributor to finding solutions,” he said.

The President added that Africa is increasingly seeking a stronger voice in international climate negotiations and sustainable development frameworks.

Ruto Pitches Africa’s Vision at G7 Summit
Ruto Pitches Africa’s Vision at G7 Summit
Development and Global Partnerships Take Centre Stage
One of the key themes at the G7 Summit will be the creation of new international partnerships and frameworks for global cooperation.

Ruto said leaders will explore how international solidarity can help shape an emerging world order while addressing development challenges.

He emphasized the need for a new development paradigm anchored on shared economic activity, inclusive growth, and equitable participation in the global economy.

The discussions, he noted, will focus on defining the role different regions can play in advancing sustainable prosperity.

 

Africa Seeks Seat at the AI Table
Technology and artificial intelligence are also expected to dominate discussions during the summit.

Ruto argued that Africa missed out on previous industrial and technological revolutions and should not repeat that experience as AI transforms economies and societies.

He said the continent intends to move beyond being a consumer of technology to becoming a co-creator of innovations and regulatory frameworks.

“Africa is not just going to be a consumer; it is going to be a co-creator. We want to be at the centre of writing the rules together,” he said.

Ruto maintained that Africa arrives at the summit organized, prepared, and ready to present concrete proposals alongside other global leaders, reflecting a growing confidence in the continent’s place within the global order.

 

NGEC Chair Calls for Action on Child WASH Inequality

The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) marked the 2026 Day of the African Child with a call for accelerated investment in water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services for children, warning that persistent inequalities continue to undermine health, dignity, education outcomes and development outcomes across Kenya and Africa.

NGEC Chairperson Rehema Jaldesa, said that access to clean water and sanitation is a fundamental child right under international and national law.

Under the 2026 theme, “Ensuring universal access to water, sanitation, and hygiene for every child in Africa,” NGEC stressed that WASH remains central to child survival and development.

The Commission cited the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, Sustainable Development Goal 6, and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child as key frameworks obligating states to guarantee safe water, sanitation, and hygiene for all children.

Constitutional and Policy Guarantees in Kenya
In Kenya, the Commission underscored constitutional guarantees under Article 43 on the right to clean and safe water and sanitation, alongside protections in the Children Act 2022 and the Vision 2030 development framework, all of which prioritise the best interests of the child in public service delivery and governance.

Despite policy and infrastructure gains, NGEC highlighted persistent inequalities in access. According to the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey, about 68% of the population has access to basic drinking water, while sanitation coverage stands at approximately 41%, with only about half of households having basic handwashing facilities.

NGEC Chair Calls for Action on Child WASH Inequality
NGEC Chair Calls for Action on Child WASH Inequality

Vulnerable Children Disproportionately Affected
Children in marginalized settings including girls, children with disabilities, those in ASAL regions, informal settlements, refugee communities, and street-connected children face heightened risks due to inadequate infrastructure.

Climate shocks such as droughts and floods further disrupt services, worsening health, safety, and dignity concerns.

NGEC called for coordinated action across government and partners, urging prioritisation of school WASH infrastructure, disability-inclusive sanitation, increased financing, stronger accountability systems, and improved maintenance of facilities, particularly for vulnerable children.

 

Kagame Pushes for Faster Aviation Reforms to Unlock Africa’s Growth

Rwandan President Paul Kagame has called on African countries to accelerate aviation reforms and improve air connectivity, warning that costly and inefficient travel links continue to undermine trade, investment, and economic growth across the continent.

Speaking at the inaugural African Air Transport Convention & Expo in Togo, Kagame said Africa has spent decades discussing regional integration, trade, and the free movement of people, but implementation has lagged behind.

“Air connectivity at its core is about Africa’s ability to act collectively and obtain concrete results,” he said. “We know what has to be done. We just have to do it.”

Travel Barriers Continue to Hold Back Growth
Despite being home to nearly one-fifth of the world’s population, Africa accounts for only a small share of global air traffic.

According to Kagame, one of the main reasons is that travelling across the continent remains expensive and often inefficient. In many cases, passengers flying between two African cities are forced to transit through Europe or the Middle East due to limited direct connections.

He noted that these barriers weaken intra-African trade, discourage investment, and make it difficult for businesses to expand across borders.

The Rwandan Head of State pointed to the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) as a key framework for addressing these challenges. However, he stressed that the initiative now requires stronger political commitment, clear timelines, and measurable outcomes.

Kagame Pushes for Faster Aviation Reforms to Unlock Africa’s Growth
Kagame Pushes for Faster Aviation Reforms to Unlock Africa’s Growth

Investment Needed Across Aviation Value Chain
Kagame also highlighted the need for greater investment in aviation infrastructure to support long-term connectivity. He said efficient air transport depends not only on airlines but also on modern airports, aircraft maintenance facilities, and reliable aviation fuel supply chains.

For that reason, he urged governments and investors to view aviation as a strategic economic enabler rather than a risky sector. Development banks, sovereign wealth funds, institutional investors, and private capital all have a role to play in transforming Africa’s aviation industry, he said.

While acknowledging the importance of financing, Kagame cautioned that capital alone would not be enough to unlock the sector’s full potential.

He called for urgent action to remove regulatory and operational obstacles that continue to slow progress, arguing that stronger connectivity would help create a more integrated and competitive African economy capable of attracting investment and supporting sustainable business growth.

 

Why Your Favourite Restaurant May Be Struggling More Than You Think

Why Your Favourite Restaurant May Be Struggling More Than You Think

We often walk into our favourite restaurant, order a meal, enjoy a drink with friends, and leave without giving much thought to what it takes to keep that business running.

Behind every bustling restaurant, lively pub, or entertainment venue is a business owner making difficult decisions every single day. Can they afford the latest electricity bill? Will customers keep coming despite rising prices? Can they retain staff, pay suppliers, and still turn a profit?

For many hospitality businesses in Kenya, these questions are becoming harder to answer.

The hospitality industry is one of the country’s largest employers, supporting approximately 1.7 million jobs and contributing about KSh1.2 trillion to the economy. But its impact goes far beyond restaurants and bars. Farmers, transport providers, security firms, cleaners, distributors, and countless small businesses depend on a thriving hospitality sector.

Yet many operators say they are facing growing pressure from rising operating costs and an increasing number of regulatory requirements.

More Than Just Rising Prices

Most consumers have noticed that dining out has become more expensive over the last few years. The reasons are familiar: inflation, higher fuel prices, increased electricity costs, and more expensive supplies.

What many people don’t see is the amount of time and money businesses spend complying with various regulations.

Restaurant and bar owners are often required to manage multiple licences, inspections, permits, tax obligations, public health requirements, and safety certifications. While each requirement may serve an important purpose, together they create a growing administrative burden, especially for small businesses.

For entrepreneurs operating on tight margins, every additional compliance requirement can mean less money available for hiring staff, improving customer experiences, or expanding operations.

The New Debate Around Tobacco Regulations

The recently proposed Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill, 2024, has sparked fresh discussions within the hospitality sector.

Supporters of the bill argue that stronger regulations are necessary to protect public health. Few would disagree with that goal.

However, some business owners are concerned that the proposed measures could add another layer of bureaucracy to an already complex operating environment.

Under the proposed framework, businesses involved in tobacco-related activities could be required to comply with both county and national-level approval processes. For hospitality operators, the concern is less about regulation itself and more about the cumulative effect of adding new requirements on top of existing obligations.

Many establishments may also need to invest in designated smoking areas, renovations, or additional infrastructure to remain compliant. While larger businesses may be able to absorb these costs, smaller operators could find the adjustments more challenging.

Why Your Favourite Restaurant May Be Struggling More Than You Think
Why Your Favourite Restaurant May Be Struggling More Than You Think
The Bigger Challenge: Illicit Trade

Interestingly, many operators believe the conversation should focus more on tackling illicit tobacco products than introducing new administrative requirements.

Across various parts of the country, reports of illegal cigarettes being sold at significantly lower prices continue to emerge. Industry estimates suggest illicit products account for a substantial share of tobacco consumption, costing the government billions in lost tax revenue.

For legitimate businesses that already comply with licensing requirements and tax obligations, the frustration is understandable. They argue that stronger enforcement against illegal trade could deliver better outcomes than creating additional compliance hurdles for businesses already operating within the law.

Finding the Right Balance

This isn’t a debate about whether regulation is necessary. Most business owners acknowledge that sensible regulations help create safer environments and healthier communities.

The real challenge is finding the right balance.

Effective regulation should address genuine problems without making it unnecessarily difficult for businesses to operate. It should target bad actors while supporting businesses that are already doing the right thing.

After all, every restaurant, pub, or entertainment venue is more than just a business. It is a source of employment, a gathering place for communities, and often someone’s lifelong dream.

As Kenya continues to refine its regulatory environment, policymakers, businesses, and consumers all have a stake in ensuring that the country’s hospitality sector remains vibrant, sustainable, and capable of creating opportunities for future generations.

Because when local restaurants and entertainment venues thrive, entire communities benefit.

By

Michael Muthami Chairperson, Pubs Entertainment and Restaurants' Association (PERAK)
Michael Muthami Chairperson, Pubs Entertainment and Restaurants’ Association (PERAK)

Mudavadi Highlights Kenya’s G7 Economic Agenda

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has described Kenya’s participation in the G7 Summit as a strategic opportunity to attract investment, deepen economic partnerships and advance reforms that can directly benefit citizens across the country.

Speaking in France, ahead of the Summit, Mudavadi said Kenya’s invitation reflects the country’s growing influence on global affairs and its role as a leading voice for Africa on key international issues.

Kenya is among only five partner nations invited to this year’s gathering, alongside India, Brazil, South Korea and Egypt.

Ruto Expected to Champion Africa’s Priorities
Mudavadi said the presence of President William Ruto at the Summit underscores the respect Kenya continues to command globally.

“The respect that Kenya holds globally is something that is now being emphasized by his presence at this G7 Summit,” Mudavadi said.

He noted that President Ruto has emerged as an influential voice on behalf of the African Union, particularly on matters affecting developing economies and the future of global cooperation.

According to Mudavadi, the President is expected to articulate not only Kenya’s interests but also broader concerns facing African nations.

“President Ruto has been a very important and consequential voice on behalf of the African Union on many global issues. He will be speaking on issues that are critical for Kenya, but even more importantly, on critical issues affecting the African continent,” he said.

Mudavadi Highlights Kenya's G7 Economic Agenda
Mudavadi Highlights Kenya’s G7 Economic Agenda
Push for Fairer Global Financial Systems
A key focus of the discussions, Mudavadi said, will be the need to reform the global economic and financial architecture to better serve developing countries.

The conversations are expected to centre on creating a more equitable financial system that supports economic growth, development financing and resilience in emerging economies.

Mudavadi said Kenya will use the platform to advocate for reforms that enable African nations to address economic and social challenges more effectively, while unlocking new opportunities for investment, trade and job creation across the continent.

 

KNCHR Condemns Disruption of All Saints Cathedral Meeting, Calls for Accountability

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has strongly condemned the disruption of a peaceful civil society meeting held at All Saints Cathedral, describing the incident as a violation of constitutional rights and democratic principles.

KNCHR noted that attacks on places of worship and peaceful assemblies undermine constitutional freedoms and threaten democratic governance.

The Commission emphasized that the Constitution guarantees every Kenyan the right to freedom of conscience, expression, association, and peaceful assembly. It cited Articles 32, 33, 36, and 37 as key protections that must be respected by both state and non-state actors.

 

Rights and Freedoms Must Be Protected
According to KNCHR, any attempt to intimidate, harass, or violently disrupt lawful gatherings amounts to a direct attack on fundamental human rights.

The Commission reaffirmed that civil society organizations, human rights defenders, faith-based institutions, and ordinary citizens have a constitutional right to assemble and participate in civic discussions without fear of interference.

The statement comes amid growing concerns about the shrinking civic space in the country and increasing tensions surrounding public participation on governance issues.

KNCHR Condemns Disruption of All Saints Cathedral Meeting, Calls for Accountability
KNCHR Condemns Disruption of All Saints Cathedral Meeting, Calls for Accountability

Police Intervention Welcomed

KNCHR commended the National Police Service (NPS) for its prompt intervention during the incident and welcomed ongoing investigations into the matter.

The Commission called for all individuals involved in planning, financing, organizing, or carrying out the attack to be identified and held accountable through a transparent legal process.

It stressed that accountability is essential in safeguarding democratic freedoms and preventing a culture of impunity. A key concern raised by the Commission was reports suggesting that young people may have been mobilized to disrupt the meeting.

KNCHR warned that exploiting youth for acts of intimidation or violence undermines their rights, dignity, and role in democratic participation. The Commission urged young people to reject involvement in unlawful activities and instead contribute positively to civic engagement, accountability, and democratic processes.

 

Commitment to Protecting Civic Space
KNCHR reiterated its commitment to protecting civic space and defending the rights and freedoms of all people in Kenya.

KNCHR also encouraged members of the public to continue reporting human rights violations through its official reporting channels.

It maintained that protecting constitutional freedoms remains critical to strengthening democracy, promoting accountability, and ensuring that all citizens can freely participate in public affairs without intimidation or violence.

 

Ruto: National Tragedies Should Not Be Turned Into Political Theatre

President William Ruto has urged Kenyans to reject the politicization of national tragedies, saying the country must prioritize healing, accountability, and action over political competition.

Speaking at State House, the President said the true impact of national crises is often felt long after public attention fades. He noted that beyond headlines and public debates are families grieving lost loved ones, survivors living with physical and emotional scars, and business owners struggling to rebuild their lives.

Ruto said leaders must focus on addressing the human cost of such tragedies rather than using them as tools for political gain.

“The lives of Kenyans are too precious, and the wounds too deep, for us to treat them as instruments of political competition,” he said.

Call for Responsible Leadership
The President acknowledged that successive generations of political leaders have condemned national tragedies but have often failed to resolve the underlying issues that continue to fuel them.

According to Ruto, confronting these challenges is never easy because leaders face criticism regardless of the decisions they make.

“If you act, you are criticized. If you do not act, you are criticized. You are, in many ways and in many respects, damned if you do and damned if you don’t,” he said.

Despite these challenges, the Head of State argued that there comes a time when a nation must choose decisive action over hesitation.

He said the consequences of inaction can become more damaging than the risks associated with implementing solutions.

Ruto: National Tragedies Should Not Be Turned Into Political Theatre
Ruto: National Tragedies Should Not Be Turned Into Political Theatre

Action Over Hesitation
Ruto emphasized that leadership is not about pursuing comfortable choices but making difficult decisions that serve the broader interests of the country.

“There comes a point when the cost of doing nothing becomes greater than the cost of trying to do something,” he said.

The President maintained that his administration has chosen to act in the interest of Kenya rather than for political advantage.

He added that the government’s commitment to addressing national challenges extends beyond public statements and is reflected in concrete actions.

“Our commitment is not in words alone. It is also in deeds,” he said.

 

WHO Chief Tedros Condemns Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa

World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has strongly condemned the latest wave of xenophobic violence in South Africa, describing the attacks as a heartbreaking betrayal of the continent’s shared history and struggle for freedom.

In a statement released, Tedros expressed concern over the escalating violence that has seen hundreds of people march on Parliament, thousands of families displaced, and several lives lost.

The WHO chief said the attacks had already claimed the lives of at least five Ethiopians and five Mozambicans in Mossel Bay, while forcing thousands of other foreign nationals to flee for safety.

“Thousands more are now fleeing for their lives,” he said, calling for an immediate end to the violence and protection of vulnerable communities.

Appeal for Unity and Shared Humanity
Tedros said the resurgence of xenophobia in South Africa was particularly painful given the country’s history and the support it received from African nations during the fight against apartheid.

He noted that African countries stood together in solidarity to help dismantle the apartheid regime and support South Africa’s liberation movement.

According to Tedros, Ethiopia played a significant role in that struggle by supporting former South African President Nelson Mandela, popularly known as Madiba, during his travels across the continent in 1962.

“Ethiopia proudly supported Madiba, Nelson Mandela, in 1962 and issued him a passport so he could travel the continent,” he said.

He added that many other African nations contributed through political, diplomatic and financial support during the liberation struggle.

WHO Chief Tedros Condemns Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa
WHO Chief Tedros Condemns Xenophobic Attacks in South Africa
Rule of Law Must Prevail
The WHO Director-General emphasized that grievances and disagreements should be addressed through legal institutions rather than violence.

He warned against vigilante attacks and collective punishment, saying such actions undermine justice and social cohesion.

“Disagreements and grievances must be addressed by the justice system and the rule of law, never through vigilante violence and collective punishment,” he stated.

Tedros urged South Africans to reject hatred and embrace the values of tolerance, dignity and respect for all people regardless of nationality.

As calls grow for authorities to restore order and protect affected communities, Tedros reiterated the need for unity across the continent.

“South Africa deserves better. Africa deserves better,” he said. “Stop the hate. Protect the vulnerable. Uphold our shared humanity.”

 

NGEC Calls for Urgent Action Against Elder Abuse as Kenya’s Ageing Population Grows

The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has called for stronger measures to combat elder abuse in Kenya, warning that the problem remains widespread despite existing legal and policy protections.

The Commission urged stakeholders to move beyond recognizing the issue and focus on concrete actions that protect the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of older persons.

Growing Ageing Population Raises Concerns
According to the World Health Organization, the global population aged 60 years and above currently stands at approximately 1.1 billion and is expected to reach 1.4 billion by 2030.

In Kenya, the 2019 Population and Housing Census recorded about 2.74 million people aged 65 years and above, representing 3.9 percent of the population. This figure is projected to increase to about 3.6 million by 2030 and exceed 10 percent of the national population by 2050.

NGEC noted that elder abuse takes many forms, including physical, emotional, psychological, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect, abandonment, and financial exploitation. The Commission said rapid urbanization, migration, weakening family structures, and economic pressures have intensified these challenges.

 

NGEC Calls for Urgent Action Against Elder Abuse as Kenya’s Ageing Population Grows
NGEC Calls for Urgent Action Against Elder Abuse as Kenya’s Ageing Population Grows

 

Unpaid Care Work Remains a Key Challenge
The Commission highlighted the burden of unpaid care work, which falls disproportionately on women and girls. Caring for older persons often involves assisting with feeding, hygiene, medication, household chores, and emotional support.

Without adequate support systems, caregivers face financial strain, stress, and burnout, factors that can contribute to neglect and mistreatment of older persons.

Kenya has made notable progress in protecting older persons through constitutional guarantees and policies such as the National Policy on Older Persons and Ageing, the Kenya National Care Policy, and the Kenya National Social Protection Policy.

Despite these gains, NGEC said elder abuse remains significantly underreported due to stigma, fear of retaliation, dependence on abusers, and limited access to justice.

The Commission called for expanded reporting mechanisms, stronger intergenerational engagement, increased social protection, enhanced research and data collection, and greater capacity-building for law enforcement and healthcare workers.

 

 

Safaricom CEO Run Returns to Rally Support for Lewa Conservation Efforts

Safaricom CEO Run Returns to Rally Support for Lewa Conservation Efforts

More than 400 participants are expected to take part in the third edition of the Safaricom CEO Run this Saturday at Karura Forest as the company intensifies fundraising efforts ahead of the 2026 Lewa Safari Marathon.

Organized by Safaricom in partnership with Tusk, the annual event combines fitness, fundraising and conservation, bringing together corporate leaders, partners, employees and running enthusiasts in support of wildlife conservation and community development initiatives at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy.

The run serves as a key precursor to the iconic Lewa Safari Marathon, which is scheduled to take place later this month and remains one of Kenya’s most impactful conservation fundraising events.

Running for Conservation and Community Impact

Participants in the CEO Run will compete across four categories, including the 21-kilometre half marathon, 15-kilometre race, 10-kilometre race and a five-kilometre walk, making the event accessible to runners of varying abilities and fitness levels.

According to Safaricom Chief Executive Officer Peter Ndegwa, the initiative reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to supporting conservation while creating opportunities that positively impact local communities.

“Through our long-standing support of the Lewa Safari Marathon, we have witnessed firsthand how sport can transform lives by unlocking access to education, healthcare and sustainable livelihoods for communities around Lewa,” said Ndegwa.

“This shared impact continues to inspire us to go even further through initiatives like the Karura Run, which brings together our partners, corporates, friends and young people to participate, raise funds and strengthen conservation efforts.”

Safaricom CEO Run Returns to Rally Support for Lewa Conservation Efforts
Safaricom CEO Run Returns to Rally Support for Lewa Conservation Efforts
Employees Driving Change Through the Lions of Lewa

A highlight of this year’s event will be the participation of the Lions of Lewa, a dedicated team of Safaricom employees who actively champion fundraising for conservation and community development initiatives.

The group has become a key force behind the company’s fundraising efforts and has consistently ranked among the top contributors to the Lewa Safari Marathon since its formation in 2019.

Over the years, the Lions of Lewa have raised more than KES 1.2 million annually to support conservation projects, demonstrating how employee-driven initiatives can contribute meaningfully to environmental protection and social impact.

Strengthening a Long-Term Conservation Partnership

Earlier this year, Safaricom announced a KES 10 million contribution towards the 2026 Lewa Safari Marathon, reinforcing a partnership that has spanned more than two decades.

The support forms part of broader efforts to protect Kenya’s wildlife, preserve critical ecosystems and improve livelihoods for communities living around conservation areas.

The 2026 Lewa Safari Marathon, set for 27th June, is expected to attract more than 1,500 participants from Kenya and around the world.

Since its inception, the marathon has raised more than KES 850 million, making it one of Africa’s most successful conservation fundraising events.

Of this amount, more than KES 400 million has been invested directly in protecting endangered species, conserving wildlife habitats and supporting environmental sustainability initiatives across Kenya.

Sport as a Force for Good

Over the years, the Lewa Safari Marathon has evolved beyond a sporting event into a platform that demonstrates the power of collective action in addressing environmental and social challenges.

By bringing together corporate sponsors, conservation organizations, athletes and local communities, the initiative continues to generate resources that support education, healthcare, wildlife protection and sustainable economic opportunities.

As participants gather at Karura Forest for this year’s CEO Run, they will not only be preparing for one of Kenya’s most unique marathon experiences but also contributing to a conservation legacy that continues to protect wildlife and transform lives.