PS Teresia Mbaika Leads Push for Modernization of JKIA as Kenya Eyes World-Class Aviation Hub

Principal Secretary for the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development, Teresia Mbaika, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) into a modern, globally competitive aviation hub, as Kenya accelerates plans to upgrade its flagship airport.

PS Mbaika joined the Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, Hon. Davis Chirchir, who chaired a high-level consultative meeting aimed at fast-tracking the roadmap for the modernization and expansion of JKIA. The meeting focused on aligning policy, infrastructure priorities, and financing options to support the long-term development of the airport, which remains a critical pillar of Kenya’s economy.

Speaking during the engagement, PS Mbaika emphasized that JKIA’s modernization is a strategic national priority, given its role as a regional aviation hub and a key economic asset supporting tourism, trade, investment, and international connectivity.

The discussions centered on the construction and optimization of existing infrastructure, with a strong focus on adopting modern technology aligned with global aviation standards. The planned upgrades are expected to enhance passenger experience, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen sustainability across airport operations.

Key result areas identified include increased passenger flow, improved efficiency, enhanced safety, and environmental sustainability, all aimed at positioning JKIA to effectively compete with other leading international airports in the region and beyond.

PS Mbaika noted that demand and capacity considerations will be central to the modernization strategy, as Kenya prepares for continued growth in passenger and cargo traffic. She underscored the need for a carefully structured expansion that responds to current needs while anticipating future growth in the aviation sector.

A significant part of the meeting was devoted to evaluating the most suitable financing model, with stakeholders exploring options that will deliver value for money, ensure sustainability, and provide the best return on investment for the country. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) emerged as one of the key models under consideration, alongside other innovative financing mechanisms.

The meeting brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from the Economic Council, Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), the Directorate of Public Private Partnerships (PPP), the National Treasury, and the Office of the Attorney General.

The continued consultations signal the government’s determination to deliver a world-class JKIA that meets international benchmarks, supports Kenya’s economic ambitions, and strengthens its position as a leading aviation gateway in Africa.

Yatta MP Hon. Robert Basil Commissions and Hands Over a Modern, Fully Equipped Classroom at Kalukuni Primary School and Junior Secondary School in Kithimani Ward, Reinforcing His Commitment to Quality, Safe and Conducive Learning Environments for All Learners

Yatta Member of Parliament, Hon. Robert Basil, has today commissioned and officially handed over a modern classroom at Kalukuni Primary School and Junior Secondary School (JSS) in Kithimani Ward, in a move aimed at strengthening education infrastructure and improving learning conditions within the constituency.

The newly constructed classroom is fitted to meet current education standards and is expected to significantly enhance the teaching and learning experience for both primary and junior secondary learners. The facility will help reduce congestion, support the effective implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), and provide a safe, dignified and learner-friendly environment for pupils and students.

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Hon. Basil emphasized that education remains a top priority under his leadership, noting that investment in school infrastructure is a direct investment in the future of Yatta Constituency and the nation at large.

“Investing in education is investing in the future. Our goal is to ensure that every child in Yatta learns in a safe, modern and conducive environment that supports academic excellence and holistic development,” said the MP.

Hon. Basil reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with education stakeholders, including school administrations, teachers, parents and the Ministry of Education, to address infrastructure gaps and ensure that schools are well-equipped to meet the growing demand for quality education, particularly at the junior secondary level.

Local leaders, education officials, teachers and parents who attended the event welcomed the project, terming it timely and impactful. They noted that the new classroom will ease pressure on existing facilities and contribute to improved learning outcomes at Kalukuni Primary School and JSS.

Community members praised the MP for his hands-on approach to development and for prioritizing projects that directly benefit children and families. They expressed optimism that continued investment in education infrastructure would uplift standards across the constituency.

As Yatta Constituency continues to implement people-centered development projects, Hon. Basil reiterated that his focus remains on service delivery, accountability and inclusive growth.

He concluded by rallying residents to safeguard public projects and support education initiatives, stressing that collective responsibility is key to sustainable development.

“Yatta ni kazi tu,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to action-driven leadership and tangible results.  

MP Caleb Mule Delivers on Promise as Katoloni Secondary School Dormitory Is Fully Reconstructed Under Machakos Town NG-CDF

Machakos Town Member of Parliament Hon. Caleb Mule has once again demonstrated decisive and people-centred leadership following the successful completion of the reconstruction of Katoloni Secondary School dormitory under the Machakos Town Constituency National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF).

The dormitory, which was completely razed by fire during a students’ strike, had left scores of learners without proper accommodation, severely disrupting learning at the institution.

The incident drew concern from parents, education stakeholders and local leaders, prompting swift intervention from the area MP.

In the immediate aftermath of the fire, Hon. Mule personally visited Katoloni Secondary School where he provided emergency support, including blankets, mattresses and financial assistance to affected students. During the visit, the MP made a firm commitment to the school community that the destroyed dormitory would be reconstructed in full — a promise that has now been fulfilled.

The newly reconstructed dormitory stands as a modern, safe and dignified facility, restoring boarding capacity at the school and providing students with a secure and conducive living environment. The completion of the project has brought relief to students, parents and teachers, allowing the school to resume normal operations and refocus on academic excellence.

Speaking on the milestone, Hon. Caleb Mule reaffirmed his belief that investment in education infrastructure is a direct investment in the future of Machakos Town Constituency.

He emphasized that no student should be forced to learn under compromised conditions, noting that the NG-CDF remains a critical tool in bridging gaps in public education facilities.

The Katoloni Secondary School dormitory project adds to a growing list of education initiatives implemented under Hon. Mule’s tenure, reinforcing his commitment to strengthening learning institutions across Machakos Town Constituency.

As students settle back into the reconstructed facility, the development stands as a powerful symbol of leadership that listens, acts and delivers — transforming challenges into opportunities and reaffirming the promise of a better future through education.

Faith Nyanzi Projects Confidence, Calls for Youth Mobilisation and Unity Ahead of 2027 Kalama Ward MCA Race

Kalama Ward MCA aspirant Hon. Faith Nyanzi has declared herself the frontrunner in the 2027 electoral contest, citing growing popularity across the ward and strong grassroots support as indicators of an impending victory.

In a message addressed to residents and supporters,Faith Nyanzi said she remains the most visible, viable and feared contender in Kalama Ward, a position she attributed to her popularity, clear manifesto and consistent engagement with the people. She argued that democracy is anchored on numbers, insisting that her support base across the ward places her ahead of other aspirants.

The youthful aspirant framed the 2027 General Election as a defining moment for change, liberation and freedom, particularly for young people. According to Nyanzi, the next election will be about citizens asserting their voices and rejecting what she described as careless leadership.

Unity emerged as a central pillar of her campaign. She pledged to prioritise cohesion among residents of Kalama, Kyangala and Kimutwa, as well as engagement with all political players, to collectively chart a clear development path for the ward. Her broader vision, she said, is to transform Kalama into a strong and influential ward within the constituency through inclusive leadership and shared decision-making.

Faith Nyanzi expressed confidence that the 2027 race is already tilting in her favour, noting that her extensive tours across the ward have revealed widespread demand for new leadership. She maintained that her main rival will suffer a decisive defeat, as residents increasingly yearn for change.

Touching on civic participation, the aspirant welcomed the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission’s (IEBC) plans to roll out enhanced continuous voter registration. She called for an aggressive campaign to empower first-time voters and mobilise the youth vote, arguing that young people will play a decisive role in shaping the outcome of the 2027 elections.

“Power is chosen by God and love by the people,” Nyanzi said, thanking residents for their continued support and expressing optimism about the future of the ward.

She concluded by reaffirming her commitment to delivering a “New Kalama,” built on unity, youth empowerment and people-centred leadership.

Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi Calls for Protection of Institutions Ahead of 2027 General Elections

Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi has issued a strong call for the protection of public institutions from political capture, intimidation, and undue influence as the country steadily heads toward the 2027 General Elections.

Speaking amid growing political activity across the country, Mwangangi emphasized that the strength of Kenya’s democracy depends largely on the independence, integrity, and credibility of its institutions, particularly during an election cycle. He warned that allowing political interests to interfere with institutions tasked with governance, oversight, and service delivery could undermine public trust and destabilize the democratic process.

“As we head to the 2027 General Elections, we must protect our institutions from political capture and any form of intimidation,” Mwangangi said. “Strong institutions are the backbone of democracy, and they must be allowed to operate independently, professionally, and without fear or favor.”

The Deputy Governor noted that institutions such as the electoral body, the judiciary, independent commissions, security agencies, and county governments play a critical role in ensuring peaceful, free, and fair elections. He stressed that political competition should be anchored on ideas, policies, and service delivery rather than coercion, threats, or manipulation of state organs.

Mwangangi further urged political leaders across the divide to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law, warning that inflammatory rhetoric and intimidation could heighten political tensions and erode national cohesion. He called on leaders to set a positive example by respecting democratic norms and promoting issue-based politics.

He also appealed to citizens, civil society, and the media to remain vigilant and actively defend democratic institutions, noting that public participation and accountability are key safeguards against abuse of power.

“As leaders, we have a responsibility to future generations to strengthen—not weaken—our democratic foundations,” he added. “The 2027 elections should be a test of our maturity as a nation, not a threat to our stability.”

Mwangangi’s remarks come at a time when political realignments and early campaigns are beginning to take shape across the country, raising concerns among governance experts about the potential pressure on independent institutions. His call adds to a growing chorus of leaders advocating for integrity, constitutionalism, and peaceful political engagement as Kenya prepares for the next electoral cycle.