Kenya Pulse

Swarup Mishra, the man behind Swarup Mediheal Hospital, is a visionary leader who transformed Kenya’s healthcare industry. From humble beginnings with just $500, Dr. Mishra built a regional hospital empire now valued at over KSh 10 billion. His journey from India to Eldoret, and from lecturer to healthcare tycoon and politician, is a true inspiration.

The Early Days: From India to Kenya

Born in India in the mid-1960s, Dr. Swarup Mishra moved to Kenya in 1997 with his wife, Dr. Pallavi Mishra, and their young son. With only $500 in hand, they chose Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County as their new home. At first, Pallavi got a job while Swarup traveled to smaller towns like Kabarnet and Iten to perform surgeries. Later, he joined Moi University as a lecturer in the Department of Reproductive Health, a position he held for 16 years.

The Birth of Swarup Mediheal Hospital

In 2006, Swarup and Pallavi took a bold step. They used their savings and unsecured bank loans to purchase and revive a struggling hospital in Eldoret. That facility became the first Swarup Mediheal Hospital. Located at the busy Eldoret-Nakuru Highway, the hospital quickly grew under their leadership.

The Eldoret branch now offers 150 beds and is known for its cutting-edge medical services, including:

Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)

Laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (first in the region)

Pain-free surgeries

IVF treatments

Cosmetic procedures

Mediheal’s Expansion Across Africa

Thanks to its quality care and modern approach, Swarup Mediheal Hospital has expanded to multiple cities:

Nakuru

Nairobi (Parklands and Eastleigh)

Kigali, Rwanda

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Mishra attributes the hospital's growth to four key pillars:

Modern infrastructure

Qualified medical staff

High-tech equipment

Affordable healthcare

Beyond Medicine: Swarup Mishra the Politician

In 2017, Dr. Mishra was elected as the Member of Parliament for Kesses under the Jubilee Party. He made history as the first Asian MP in a Kalenjin-majority constituency, winning hearts with his humility and generosity. Locals affectionately call him “Kiprop Arap Chelule”, symbolizing his deep connection with the community.

The Personal Side of Swarup Mediheal Hospital’s Founder

Swarup is married to Dr. Pallavi Mishra, a leading gynecologist specializing in IVF and high-risk pregnancies. They have two children: a son who studied finance in the UK and a daughter who pursued law.

In 2022, he unveiled a luxurious mansion in Elgon View Estate, Eldoret, attended by top leaders including then-Deputy President William Ruto.

Overcoming Challenges

Despite massive success, Mishra faced challenges. After losing the 2022 elections, Mediheal Hospital faced financial difficulties and controversies, including delisting from the NHIF panel. Mishra has firmly denied any wrongdoing, and the hospital continues to serve thousands of patients across the region.

Swarup Mediheal Hospital: A Lasting Legacy

As the early morning sun rose over Ho Chi Minh City in December, nearly 18,000 runners gathered at the starting line of the Techcombank International Marathon. Amid the sea of Vietnamese athletes, two East African runners quietly made their way to the front — bringing with them not just elite endurance but a growing global trend.

Ethiopian marathoner Tesfaye Tsegaye Keress, standing just 1.62 meters tall and weighing around 50kg, used his compact build and sharp instincts to weave through the crowd, securing a prime position. Just behind him was fellow Ethiopian, Dereje Alemu Miko, entered in the half-marathon. They weren’t there just for the love of the sport — they were running for more than medals.

Running for Opportunity

Keress’s goals were clear: win the marathon and take home the $2,500 cash prize. “I have a wife and two sons,” he explained. “We run a small chicken farm and have cows for milk. Winning these races helps us grow our business back home in Sendafa,” a town in Ethiopia’s Oromia region.

In East Africa, Keress might be considered a mid-level runner. His personal best marathon time of 2:23:50, achieved in Thailand in 2023, wouldn’t place him among global elites. But in Vietnam, where long-distance running is still maturing, Keress is a serious contender.

Vietnam’s Running Revolution

Over the past decade, marathon running has exploded in popularity across Vietnam. From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, large-scale races have become common, supported by a fitness-conscious middle class and an enthusiastic running community. The post-COVID era has only accelerated this trend, with 2023 seeing 41 full marathons and over 260,000 participants nationwide — up from 31 races the year before.

What’s attracting international runners, however, is the prize money. Major races in Vietnam now offer thousands of dollars in winnings, drawing top performers from traditional long-distance powerhouses like Kenya and Ethiopia.

Among them is Kenya’s Edwin Kiptoo, who has emerged as a dominant force in Vietnam’s marathon circuit, and a key rival for athletes like Keress. These East African runners, long celebrated for their dominance in global distance running, now see Vietnam as a promising new frontier.

The Business of Running

Behind every top marathoner is often a network of sponsors and agents. For Keress and Miko, a Thai promoter brought them to Vietnam. The promoter, who also runs an energy supplement company, sees high returns when his athletes win — not just in prize money, but in brand visibility and market influence.

This model isn’t unique. Across East Africa, sports agents actively scout runners and arrange international opportunities, often in exchange for a share of any winnings or endorsements. And with the likes of Kenyan legend Eliud Kipchoge and Ethiopian great Haile Gebrselassie having set the gold standard, many aspiring athletes from the region are motivated to build careers through these international circuits.

Vietnam, it seems, has become one of the newest — and perhaps most lucrative — stops on that journey.

The Road Ahead

As Vietnam’s marathon calendar continues to grow, the presence of international competitors like Keress and Kiptoo is likely to become more common. Their participation brings a new level of competition and prestige to these events — while also offering them a chance to turn athletic talent into a better life at home.

Once hailed as a neutral mediator in East African diplomacy, Kenya now finds itself facing criticism for what many see as a dangerous pivot. At the heart of the controversy is the country’s perceived involvement in Sudan’s ongoing civil war — a conflict that has already displaced millions and left a trail of destruction across the nation.

A Nairobi Meeting That Sparked a Firestorm

In February, an event held in Nairobi’s central business district drew significant attention — but not for the reasons one might expect. The hall, draped not in Kenya’s national colors but in the flag of Sudan, hosted leaders of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a powerful Sudanese paramilitary group at war with the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).

During the gathering, the RSF and some allied civilian groups unveiled a “Sudan Founding Charter” and proposed a new transitional constitution. While this was framed as a step toward peace, it also laid the groundwork for an RSF-backed parallel government — and critics were quick to question Kenya’s role in it all.

Sudan Reacts: A Diplomatic Fallout

The backlash was swift. The SAF-led government, based in Port Sudan, condemned the meetings in no uncertain terms, calling Kenya a “rogue state” and accusing it of supporting a group responsible for alleged genocidal acts in Darfur. They even recalled their ambassador to Nairobi.

Internationally, countries like Turkey and Saudi Arabia joined Sudan in expressing outrage. Kenya, however, stood by its actions. Foreign Secretary Musalia Mudavadi insisted that Nairobi was merely providing a “neutral platform” for peace discussions, in line with its historical role as a regional mediator.

But Is Kenya Still Neutral?

Analysts and political observers aren’t so sure.

“In football terms, this was a diplomatic own goal,” remarked Abdullahi Boru Halakhe, a policy expert with Refugees International. He argues that Kenya’s credibility as a peace broker has taken a hit — one that could take years to recover from.

This isn’t an isolated incident either. Just a few months earlier, Kenya clashed with the Democratic Republic of Congo over allegations that Nairobi was harboring rebel groups. Together, these events paint a picture of a foreign policy shift under President William Ruto — and not necessarily one that sits well with Kenya’s neighbors.

What’s Really Going On Behind the Scenes?

Speculation about Kenya’s motives has been rife.

Some point to a growing personal connection between President Ruto and RSF leader Mohamed Hamdan “Hemedti” Dagalo. Ruto hosted Hemedti during a regional tour in January, and notably, Hemedti’s brother — RSF deputy commander Abdulrahim Dagalo — joined Ruto on a state trip to South Sudan. The U.S. has sanctioned Abdulrahim for his role in war atrocities.

Others suggest economics may be at play. In January, Kenya signed a major investment deal with the United Arab Emirates — a country accused of quietly supporting the RSF, though it denies any involvement. The deal promises to double UAE investments in Kenya and includes a $1.5 billion loan Nairobi badly needs to plug its budget deficits.

Sudanese Voices: “This Isn’t Peacemaking”

For many Sudanese, Kenya’s actions are deeply troubling. Political analyst Shaza El Mahdi described the Nairobi meetings as “a branding exercise” for the RSF — one aimed at gaining legitimacy rather than achieving peace.

“This move raises red flags for us as Sudanese,” she told Al Jazeera. “It’s more about dividing the country than healing it.”

She and others argue that any legitimate peace process must involve both the RSF and the SAF — and that excluding one side only deepens the divide.

The Bigger Picture: Kenya’s Regional Role at Risk

For years, Kenya has played a crucial role in East African peace efforts, from brokering deals in Somalia to hosting key Sudanese negotiations. But as the lines blur between peacemaker and peacebreaker, that legacy is now in question.

Swarup Mediheal Hospital, founded by Dr. Swarup Ranjan Mishra in 2004, has emerged as a leading healthcare provider in East Africa. With state-of-the-art medical facilities and a commitment to patient-centric care, the hospital group has expanded beyond Kenya into Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi, revolutionizing healthcare accessibility in the region.

Foundation and Growth of Swarup Mediheal Hospital

Dr. Swarup Ranjan Mishra established Mediheal Group of Hospitals to address the healthcare gap in East Africa. In 2006, Mediheal acquired the Pacifica Hospital in Eldoret, transforming it into a 150-bed obstetrics and fertility center. This marked the beginning of a journey dedicated to providing world-class medical services to the region.

Expanding Medical Facilities Across East Africa

Today, Swarup Mediheal Hospital operates 10 healthcare facilities, including:

Two branches in Nairobi

Eldoret

Nakuru

Kigali, Rwanda

These facilities provide specialized medical care across more than 25 disciplines, such as:

Neonatology

Neurology and Neurosurgery

Organ Transplants (Kidney and Liver)

Assisted Reproductive Technology (IVF and ART)

Pediatric Endocrinology

Minimally Invasive Surgeries

Cutting-Edge Medical Technology

Swarup Mediheal Hospital integrates modern technology to deliver precise diagnoses and effective treatments, featuring:

MRI and CT scanning facilities

Specialty-specific modular operating theaters

Advanced ICUs with real-time monitoring systems

Dedicated transplant ICUs ensuring top-tier infection control

Medical Breakthroughs and Achievements

Mediheal Hospital has pioneered several medical advancements in East Africa, including:

The first IVF baby in Rwanda, establishing itself as a leader in fertility treatments

Over 1,000 successful IVF cycles annually

The first laparoscopic donor nephrectomy for renal transplants in East Africa

Over 50 successful kidney transplants with remarkable success rates

The first thoracic paraspinal tumor treatment confirmed as paraganglioma in Africa

Specialized Healthcare Services

The hospital attracts patients across East Africa for its specialized treatments:

Fertility Solutions: Offering cutting-edge IVF, ICSI, and egg-freezing procedures

Organ Transplants: Providing life-saving kidney transplants with high success rates

Neurosurgery: Advanced brain and spine surgeries using state-of-the-art navigation systems

Orthopedic and Joint Replacement: Minimally invasive surgeries for faster recovery

Transforming Regional Healthcare

Swarup Mediheal Hospital is reshaping healthcare across East Africa by:

Reducing the need for patients to seek treatment abroad

Offering top-tier healthcare services at affordable rates

Serving international patients from Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Ethiopia, Uganda, South Sudan, and Congo

Leadership and Vision

The hospital's growth is led by:

Dr. Swarup Ranjan Mishra, Founder and Chairman, whose leadership has been instrumental in Mediheal’s success

Dr. Pallavi Mishra, Director and Co-founder, spearheading fertility and reproductive health services

Why Swarup Mediheal Hospital Stands Out

Patients trust Mediheal Hospital for:

A team of expert medical professionals skilled in complex procedures

Cutting-edge technology ensuring accurate diagnosis and treatment

A compassionate, patient-first approach to healthcare

Affordable world-class medical services

A New Era in East African Healthcare

President William Ruto has thrown his support behind the Cross-Car Project, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering young motorsport talent in Kenya through local vehicle manufacturing.

Backed by the FIA, WRC Promoter, and ASN, the project will work alongside technical training institutions to produce cross-cars locally. This collaboration is expected to create fresh opportunities for aspiring drivers, engineers, and technicians within the motorsport industry.

“This project will serve as a foundation for the future of motorsport, engaging trainees as young as 8 years old,” President Ruto stated.

Narok Senator Ledama Ole Kina has expressed skepticism over the shortlisted candidates for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson position, arguing that they lack the necessary integrity and independence to oversee elections fairly.

Speaking during an interview with Citizen TV, Senator Ledama claimed that the selection process had produced candidates who are easily compromised and unlikely to uphold ethical standards.

"I believe this is a completely wrong list of candidates to steer this country forward in terms of electoral integrity," he remarked. "I see individuals who will be 'yes people'—they cannot be independent or guided by ethics and integrity."

The senator further criticized the experience and background of those shortlisted, advocating for a younger, more radical leader to bring transparency and fairness to the commission.

"These are individuals who have been recycled from different jobs. It’s time for fresh leadership—a young, radical leader who can restore public trust in the electoral process," he added.

Tetu Member of Parliament (MP) Geoffrey Wandeto, who was also on the panel, echoed these sentiments, stating that the shortlisted individuals do not inspire confidence among the electorate due to their political affiliations.

"I don’t know whether the country has run out of qualified candidates. I see individuals with a history that aligns with one political divide," he stated. "My concern is that we might end up with someone who cannot say 'no' even when pressured by the highest office."

The IEBC Selection Panel officially commenced interviews for the chairperson position on Monday, March 24, at the College of Insurance in Nairobi. The three-day process is being conducted publicly to enhance transparency.

Monday’s interviews featured candidates such as former Constitutional Implementation Committee Chairperson Charles Nyachae, former Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Anne Amadi, Abdulqadir Lorot Ramadhan, and Edward Katama Ngeywa.

On Tuesday, the panel will interview Erastus Edung Ethekon, Francis Kakai Kissinger, former Nairobi County Assembly Clerk Jacob Ngwele, and Kenya Power Board Chairperson Joy Masinde-Mdivo.

The final batch of chairperson candidates, including Lillian Wanjiku Manegene, Robert Akumu Asembo, and Saul Simiyu Wasilwa, will face the panel on Wednesday.

Wajir County has escalated its fight against the kala-azar outbreak by launching an intensified fumigation and spraying campaign across the hardest-hit areas in Eldas and Wajir West. The exercise, which began this week, aims to curb the spread of the deadly disease that has so far resulted in nine deaths and over 500 infections since September last year.

The county’s health department has identified 6,000 households as priority areas for fumigation in a bid to eliminate sandflies, the primary vectors of the disease. Officials say the recent floods have exacerbated the situation, creating ideal breeding conditions for the sandflies.

“Our goal is to reach at least 6,000 households with this intervention to mitigate further transmission. The outbreak remains a serious public health concern, and urgent action is needed to contain it,” stated Mohamed Hassan Maalim, the County Director for Public Health.

Apart from fumigation, the health team is conducting awareness campaigns to educate residents on the symptoms, transmission, and preventive measures against kala-azar. Health authorities have urged residents to seek medical attention promptly if they exhibit signs of the disease.

Ahmed Guhad, the County Chief Officer for Medical Services, confirmed that all nine reported fatalities were children under five years old. He noted that the most affected areas include Eldas, Wajir West, and Wajir East, where health facilities are struggling to cope with the rising number of cases.

Speaking at Wajir Referral Hospital, Hassan Abass Ahmed, the County Director of Medical Services, acknowledged the strain on healthcare facilities, stating that additional pediatric wards have been set up to accommodate the growing number of young patients. To manage the influx, some cases are being referred to Makoror Hospital, while health centers in Giriftu and Eldas have also started admitting patients directly.

Despite these efforts, the county continues to face logistical challenges, including inadequate testing kits and delayed test results from national government laboratories in Nairobi, Nakuru, and Kisumu, hampering timely treatment.

Kala-azar, also known as visceral leishmaniasis, is caused by the Leishmania parasite and transmitted through sandfly bites. If left untreated, the disease can be fatal. Common symptoms include prolonged fever, weight loss, anemia, fatigue, diarrhea, and swelling of the spleen and liver.

Dr. Swarup Mishra has emerged as a transformative figure in Kenya’s healthcare sector while also making significant strides in politics and philanthropy. As the founder of Mediheal Group of Hospitals, he has played a crucial role in improving specialized medical care across East Africa. Despite political challenges, his unwavering commitment to affordable and quality healthcare continues to leave a lasting impact on the region.

Swarup Mishra’s Journey in Medicine and Healthcare

Dr. Swarup Mishra began his medical career with extensive education in Obstetrics & Gynaecology, gaining experience in India and Germany before moving to Kenya. He later joined Moi University, where he contributed immensely to medical education and research. Recognizing the need for specialized healthcare services in East Africa, he established Swarup Mishra Mediheal in 2005.

Under his leadership, Swarup Mishra Hospital expanded rapidly, introducing advanced medical treatments such as neurology, IVF, kidney transplants, and cardiology. His vision for Mediheal has not only improved healthcare standards in Kenya but has also extended to Rwanda, making it a leading institution in the region.

Swarup Mishra’s Contribution to Philanthropy and Community Service

Beyond healthcare, Swarup Mishra Kenya is known for his philanthropic initiatives. Over the years, he has offered scholarships to over a thousand students, donated agricultural resources to farmers, and provided essential medical equipment to underserved communities. His dedication to social causes has endeared him to many, further reinforcing his role as a leader beyond the medical field.

Swarup Mishra’s Political Journey and Challenges

In 2017, Dr. Swarup Ranjan Mishra transitioned into politics, successfully winning a parliamentary seat for Kesses Constituency. During his tenure, he initiated numerous development projects aimed at improving infrastructure, education, and healthcare access. However, the political landscape shifted in 2022, leading to setbacks in his political career due to changing allegiances and regional dynamics.

Swarup Mishra’s Lasting Legacy in Kenya

Despite facing political hurdles, Swarup Mishra Mediheal remains a beacon of excellence in East African healthcare. His relentless pursuit of medical innovation and community service has solidified his reputation as a visionary leader. With his focus on expanding medical facilities and enhancing healthcare accessibility, Dr. Swarup Mishra continues to shape the future of medical care in Kenya.

Nairobi witnessed an unforgettable night as Nigerian Afro-fusion superstar Burna Boy took the stage at Uhuru Gardens for the much-anticipated Madfun Xperience concert. While the event was widely publicized as just another high-profile show, for many Kenyans, it was more than that—it was a long-overdue moment of redemption for the self-proclaimed African Giant.

Burna Boy has had a rocky history with Kenyan fans, dating back to his earlier performances in the country. From his days at Coke Studio Africa in 2014 to the infamous 2017 Privee nightclub show in Westlands—where he arrived nearly at dawn and delivered a lackluster performance while seemingly intoxicated—his past engagements have often left Kenyan fans disappointed. His online clashes with Kenyans, including controversial comments and social media blocking sprees, further strained relations. But on March 1, 2025, he had the chance to rewrite that narrative.

A Concert Marked by Precision and Energy

From the onset, the event's organization set a promising tone. The long walk from Lang’ata Road to the main venue was well-secured, with multiple ticket checkpoints ensuring smooth access. The emphasis on security, often a major concern at large gatherings, was commendable.

The night kicked off with Kenya’s own Bensoul, whose soulful performance set the mood for an evening of great music. He was followed by Charisma, who, despite being an emerging artist, delivered an energetic and heartfelt performance that resonated with the crowd. DJ Mista C then took control of the decks, keeping the audience on its feet with an electrifying mix of Afrobeats, Amapiano, Bongo, and old-school hip-hop.

Burna Boy’s Grand Entrance and Commanding Presence

At 10:50 p.m., the moment Nairobi had been waiting for finally arrived. Burna Boy stormed the stage clad in an eye-catching animal skin-inspired outfit, launching into his hit track ‘Location,’ instantly igniting the crowd. His set was a seamless blend of old classics and newer hits, reaffirming why he remains one of the most captivating performers of his generation.

Midway through, he took a moment to address minor disturbances in the crowd, reinforcing his commitment to a safe and enjoyable show. He also acknowledged the long-overdue return, stating that he was here to “make it up to Kenya for all the lost time.”

A Star-Studded Surprise and Burna’s Signature Flair

In a moment that took the crowd by surprise, Kenyan music giants Sauti Sol joined Burna Boy on stage for their Grammy-nominated collaboration ‘Time Flies.’ The performance was a powerful representation of African musical unity and sent the audience into a frenzy.

Burna Boy also managed to inject humor into the night. Seizing an opportunity to respond to ongoing social media drama about an unfulfilled Lamborghini promise to a Nigerian socialite, he improvised a freestyle after spotting a fan’s sign that read, “Odogwu buy me a house.” The playful moment quickly became a viral sensation online.

The Climactic Finale

At 12:30 a.m., Burna Boy closed the night with the ultimate crowd favorite, ‘Last Last,’ urging the audience to wave their shirts in the air. As fireworks illuminated the Nairobi sky, the concert concluded on a spectacular high, leaving many attendees in awe of the transformation Burna Boy had undergone since his earlier years in Kenya.

The Hits and Misses

While the concert was widely praised for its security, organization, and electrifying performances, it wasn’t without its shortcomings. The turnout, though decent, was reportedly lower than expected, possibly due to high ticket prices. Additionally, some fans lamented the lack of experiential elements beyond the music, suggesting that the event organizers could have incorporated more interactive activities.

Another point of contention was the limited variety of drinks available, as the event’s alcohol partnership restricted the selection to specific foreign brands, excluding popular local options.

Verdict: A Redemption Well-Earned

East African Portland Cement Company (EAPCC) ended February on a high note, posting a remarkable half-year profit of Sh35 million for the period ending December 31, 2024. The turnaround, driven by a robust market strategy, has helped the firm regain a competitive edge, boosting sales and investor confidence.

Marking a major milestone, the cement manufacturer rewarded its shareholders with a Sh1 per share dividend on Friday—the first payout in 13 years. This positive development propelled its stock price to one of the biggest gains of the month at the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), surging 27.5% to close at Sh37.

Looking ahead, EAPCC is set to roll out an aggressive investment plan in the second half of the financial year, targeting full utilisation of its installed capacity to sustain its growth momentum.

Meanwhile, Centum Plc’s stock saw a dramatic surge following a share repurchase plan announced last year. However, after the investment firm halted the initiative in late January, analysts predict its stock price—currently at Sh14.75, up 29.96%—may slide back to its earlier level of Sh11.90 or even align with the buyback offer of Sh9.51.

Another notable mover was Standard Group, which gained 30% to close February at Sh6.50, as investors reacted positively to its planned Sh1.5 billion rights issue. The media firm intends to use the capital to restructure its balance sheet and tap into emerging opportunities in the digital space. However, its stock trajectory remains dependent on the successful execution of the rights issue.

West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin has expressed strong support for the establishment of a modern Digital Centre of Excellence in the county, calling it a crucial step toward addressing youth unemployment. During a recent site visit with the Konza Technopolis Chief Manager of Construction, Antony Sang, Kachapin highlighted the importance of the project for economic empowerment.

While an earlier proposed site at Bendera in Siyoi ward faced logistical challenges, the team has identified an alternative location in the Tartar area, where initial construction steps have been taken. The Governor emphasized that despite setbacks, the county is committed to facilitating the project’s completion, recognizing the significant potential of digital transformation.

The Digital Centre is part of a broader national initiative to establish 1,450 digital units across Kenya. The first phase, which includes 50 centers, must be completed by the end of the financial year, with West Pokot receiving one of the centers.

Governor Kachapin also praised the success of open Wi-Fi hotspots already in operation across the county, allowing residents to access the internet and fostering digital inclusion. The project is seen as a key pillar of Kenya’s Digital Economy Blueprint, which aims to improve sectors such as education, healthcare, and agriculture through enhanced digital connectivity.

Engineer Antony Sang reiterated the project’s alignment with the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), stressing the need for local community support and cooperation in its implementation. He also acknowledged the county’s unique reception, noting that West Pokot is the only one where the Governor had personally welcomed the project team.

CFAO Mobility Kenya has confirmed its continued sponsorship of the 2025 World Rally Championship (WRC) Safari Rally, pledging KSh 33 million to help organize the event. This year’s rally marks the centenary of Toyota Gazoo Racing’s involvement in the event.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs, Creative Economy, and Sports Cabinet Secretary, Salim Mvurya, emphasized that this will be CFAO's fifth consecutive year supporting the WRC Safari Rally in Kenya.

As part of the sponsorship, CFAO Mobility will provide a TTR Hilux pickup as the official "double zero" car, which opens the route. In a push for road safety, the event will introduce a school mural competition promoting safe driving practices, pedestrian safety, and responsible road use among the youth.

Additionally, CFAO Mobility launched the #HiluxUnleashYourShujaa campaign to highlight the Hilux’s reputation for durability and performance.

“The Hilux is a vehicle made for Kenya, tested and trusted to handle all transportation needs,” said Mvurya.

The sponsorship underscores CFAO’s ongoing commitment to growing motorsports in Kenya while strengthening its relationship with customers. Safari Rally Kenya’s CEO, Charles Gacheru, shared that for the first time, the WRC Safari Rally will be organized under KSh 1 billion, a significant drop from last year’s KSh 1.3 billion expenditure.

World 10,000m record holder Beatrice Chebet is set to kick off her 2025 track season at the Xiamen Diamond League on April 25, as she targets her first World Championships title later this year.

Chebet, who has already secured her spot in both the 5,000m and 10,000m events at the Tokyo 2025 World Championships, sees the Xiamen meet as a vital part of her preparations. This will be the first leg of the 14-stop Diamond League series, with the finals taking place in Zurich on August 27-28.

The 24-year-old star made history in 2024 by setting a world record in the 10,000m, with a time of 28:54.4, and also secured the 5,000m qualification with her 14:09.52 win at the Zurich Diamond League. Despite holding qualifications for both events, Chebet is still undecided whether she will pursue the double in Tokyo, with final decisions to be made after the national trials.

Chebet's main goal this season is to claim her first World Championships gold, having previously earned silver in 2022 and bronze in 2023 in the 5,000m.

While continuing her pursuit of world records, Chebet remains focused on maintaining a disciplined and hard-working approach to her training. Her 2024 season was a landmark year, including becoming the third woman in history to win both the 5,000m and 10,000m Olympic titles, as well as breaking the women's 5km world record on New Year's Eve with a 13:54 finish. She has now begun 2025 in strong form with a victory at the Elgoibar Cross Country in Spain.

Nairobi City Thunder maintained their undefeated record in the Kenya National Men’s Basketball Premier League (KNBL) with commanding wins over the weekend against varsity opponents.

The defending champions first triumphed over the USIU Tigers, securing an 85-67 victory on Saturday, before delivering a stunning 96-48 win over the University of Nairobi’s Terror on Sunday at the Nyayo Gymnasium.

Having played eight matches, City Thunder remains perfect, accumulating 16 points so far in the season.

Despite the commanding results, head coach Brad Ibs noted that the team made some mental errors during Saturday’s game against USIU, but saw it as an opportunity for younger players to gain valuable game time.

“We made mental lapses, but it was a good chance for our younger players to get extended minutes against a strong opponent. We discussed the mistakes after the game,” Ibs explained.

The team’s performance against Terror was an improvement, with the coach praising the players for better communication and effort on the court. “We played much better, and the focus now shifts to our upcoming game against Equity Dumas next weekend,” he added.

Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) has reported a significant increase in electricity consumption, with peak demand reaching a record high of 2,316 MW on February 12, 2025. According to KPLC's National Control Centre, electricity demand has been steadily rising over the past three years, with a noticeable acceleration in growth during 2024.

In 2021, KPLC saw electricity demand surpass the 2,000 MW mark, followed by peaks of over 2,100 MW in 2022 and 2,200 MW in 2023. The momentum continued to build in mid-2024, driven by significant infrastructure developments aimed at stabilizing the National Grid.

Key projects that have contributed to this growth include the completion of the Kimuka 220/66kV substation by KETRACO, which introduced four 66kV feeder lines to serve Nairobi and neighboring counties. Additionally, the 33kV double circuit interconnector between Narok and Bomet, along with other network reinforcement initiatives, have bolstered power supply reliability.

KPLC also reported connecting over 198,535 new customers to the national grid in the last six months alone. The company anticipates continued growth in electricity demand in the short and medium term due to improved grid stability and the completion of connectivity projects. This includes the upcoming Last Mile Phases IV and V, which will connect an additional 289,121 customers.

In line with this demand, KPLC is promoting the adoption of e-cooking and electric motorization to further stimulate electricity consumption while supporting environmental conservation efforts. Last year, the company announced a Ksh.258 million investment over three years to boost electric vehicle and motorbike usage in the country. This initiative includes the establishment of charging stations and the purchase of electric vehicles for operational use.

In a bid to tackle the growing problem of clothing returns, major online retailers are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) for solutions. With up to 30% of fashion items bought online being returned, primarily due to sizing issues, AI-driven tools are now playing a pivotal role in reducing these costly returns.

A 2024 study by McKinsey and the Business of Fashion revealed that many shoppers buy multiple sizes or styles, returning the ones that don’t fit, which significantly impacts profit margins. Each return costs between $21 and $46, factoring in transportation, processing, and restocking.

AI is now being used to address one of the main causes of returns: sizing discrepancies. Zoe Tournant, CEO of French startup Fringuant, markets an AI-based algorithm that helps customers select the right size by using a simple selfie. The AI model, trained on thousands of photos, analyzes the customer's body type based on height, weight, and even gender, offering a precise sizing recommendation within seconds.

Fringuant has seen success with major clients like the high-end womenswear brand Maje, which has reported a notable reduction in returns.

Similarly, Zalando, a major European online retailer, introduced its AI-driven sizing tool in 2023, allowing customers to take two photos of themselves in tight-fitting clothing to get size recommendations. By improving sizing accuracy, Zalando aims to reduce returns.

Beyond sizing issues, AI is also enhancing order fulfillment accuracy. At ID Logistics, which operates in 18 countries, smart cameras installed on order pickers’ trolleys help ensure that the correct product is selected. These cameras have reduced shipping errors by 90% in under two years.

Other innovations include AI-powered robots in warehouses that track stock and process thousands of pallets each night, further improving efficiency and inventory management.

Members of Parliament have expressed support for the idea of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga joining President William Ruto's government following his defeat in the African Union Commission (AUC) chairperson race.

Kitui Central MP, Makali Mulu, suggested on Tuesday that Odinga’s experience and leadership would be an asset to the country and should be utilized by the government. He highlighted the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, which recognizes the role of the leader of the opposition, and urged its adoption to give Odinga an official position in the executive.

“Raila should be part of the government now that he is back. The NADCO report should be passed to ensure Kenyans benefit from his years of experience,” Mulu said in an interview with Citizen TV. He also pointed out that if Odinga chooses to work with Ruto, it could pave the way for more people to join the government, though some may have to step aside for others to take their place.

However, Mulu also noted that Odinga could choose to retire and leave behind his political ambitions. He warned that this might alienate younger Kenyans who feel betrayed by Odinga's actions during the political crisis, with many accusing him of abandoning the youth.

"He could step back and advise younger leaders, but this might not resonate with the Gen Zs, who see him as a figure that betrayed them," Mulu said.

Nyeri Town MP Duncan Mathenge also supported the idea of utilizing Odinga's potential, stressing that Ruto’s government should not wait until the 2027 elections to involve the opposition leader in a formal role.

“Kenyans across the political divide recognize Raila’s value to the country. We should not wait until 2027 to give him a role but rather allow him to contribute to the nation now,” Mathenge said.

The conversation was sparked after Belgut MP Nelson Koech suggested that Odinga could be given a prominent position in the government, including his former role as Prime Minister. However, Mathenge dismissed the idea of reviving the Prime Minister's office, stating that it would require constitutional changes to be implemented.