🇰🇪KenyaEast Africa
Nnene Janice Essien relocates to Kenya after 10 years in the US, citing peace and affordability
via Tuko3 min read
Nnene Janice Essien, an HR consultant, permanently relocated to Nairobi, Kenya, after living in the United States for 10 years. She has also lived in Mexico and Nigeria but finds Kenya to be her most peaceful home. Essien, who has visited Kenya for 15 years, noted the affordability of life there compared to the US, particularly regarding fresh produce. She feels healthier due to access to diverse fruits and vegetables and enjoys the peaceful environment and nature walks. Essien described her life in the US as constantly rushed, contrasting it with her current slower pace in Nairobi, a city she says is always active with events and activities. She also mentioned living on 20% of her previous US expenses, even with her son attending a prestigious school. She rents a house previously occupied by her sister and brother-in-law, insisting on contributing financially despite their offer for her not to pay rent.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Tuko.
A burial ceremony in Kirinyaga county for Mzee Francis Ngari, father of Michael Kinyua Ngari, treasurer of the Mwea Irrigation Scheme Water Users Association, was disrupted by a confrontation involving former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua and Mwea MP Mary Maingi. Gachagua addressed mourners via phone after Tebere Ward MCA Peter Karinga set up the call, noting Gachagua and the deceased were schoolmates. During his address, Gachagua criticized government policies, specifically mentioning rice imports, and accused elected leaders, including Maingi, of failing to defend community interests and siding with the government. He stated, “The biggest problem in our community is traitors, the leaders we elected who do not advocate for our people. They collude with Kasongo Ruto as he oppresses us. For instance, your MP Mary Maingi is a traitor to the community, she sits with Ruto as he oppresses us.” Maingi, seated among the mourners, reacted strongly to these remarks, standing up and shouting in protest. A brief physical struggle over the microphone ensued, temporarily interrupting the ceremony, with Maingi repeatedly shouting “shame on you” to Gachagua over the phone.
Australia's growing labor shortage in specific sectors has created opportunities for foreign workers, including Kenyans, seeking entry-level positions. According to Anthony Wambugu, a migration consultant at VisaXpats, agriculture remains the most accessible pathway for low-skilled foreign workers, with seasonal farm jobs available in states like Queensland, Victoria, and New South Wales through programs such as the Seasonal Worker Programme SWP and the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility PALM scheme. The hospitality industry also offers roles like kitchen assistants, cleaners, housekeeping staff, and waiters, particularly in tourist-heavy regions. Australia's expanding construction industry and logistics sector have created demand for general laborers, construction assistants, cleaners, warehouse operatives, and packaging workers. Cleaning jobs, especially for construction sites, are also in demand due to strict safety and cleanliness standards. The warehousing industry, with roles such as pick-packers, forklift drivers, and inventory officers, also presents opportunities. Wambugu emphasizes that applicants must align job opportunities with valid visa pathways, as there is no direct “low-skilled work visa” for Australia. Common pathways include Working Holiday visas, employer-sponsored visas, and seasonal labor programs. He advises against shortcuts and stresses the importance of English proficiency and documentation readiness. While these roles can be temporary, physically de
Must ReadThe Kenya Forest Service KFS has initiated disciplinary measures against Kangaita forest rangers in Kirinyaga county following the death of David Munene. Munene was arrested on March 30, 2026, for alleged illegal logging. While in police custody, Munene claimed he was assaulted during his arrest. He was later arraigned in court, but his condition deteriorated, leading to his hospitalization and subsequent death on April 8. KFS condemned brutality, stating that its officers are trained to operate within a human rights-based framework and will bear personal responsibility for any harm caused to the public. Police investigations into the incident are ongoing to determine the exact cause of death and whether the alleged assault contributed to his injuries. This case highlights ongoing national discussions regarding the conduct of law enforcement officers.
Stabex International Ltd Chairman Jackson Chebett has filed a defamation lawsuit against former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua. Chebett accuses Gachagua of making false and damaging claims linking him and his company to a controversial government-to-government fuel deal. Chebett maintains that neither he nor Stabex has any involvement in the G-G fuel supply framework, nor does he operate as a proxy for President William Ruto. He asserts that his business dealings are independent and transparent, built over many years in the energy and real estate sectors. Chebett claims Gachagua's remarks were made repeatedly, without factual verification, and driven by malice and political motives, causing significant harm to his public image, reputational damage, loss of business opportunities, and emotional distress. He states that Stabex International Ltd operates over 200 fuel stations and 14 depots across East Africa. Chebett is seeking a permanent injunction to prevent further publication of the statements, a public apology, and damages for the harm caused. A demand letter sent to Gachagua on April 9 reportedly went unheeded.