The ongoing conflict in Sudan has led to widespread sexual violence against women and girls, with many fleeing to Chad for safety. Doctors Without Borders reports that nearly half a million people have sought refuge, with numerous accounts of rape, beatings, and killings by armed groups. The trauma is exacerbated by the loss of loved ones and the dire living conditions in refugee camps. The World Food Programme faces funding shortages, complicating efforts to provide essential supplies and services to the displaced population.

Millicent Kagonga, a 35-year-old cancer survivor, recounts her struggle with cervical cancer, which led to her marriage's breakdown and severe personal hardships. Initially misdiagnosed, she eventually discovered her condition had advanced to Stage 4. Despite facing financial and social challenges, she received treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital and now advocates for regular check-ups and support for cancer patients. The article also highlights global and Kenyan cancer statistics, attributing rising cases to lifestyle factors and emphasizing the importance of early detection and public education. Kenya's National Cancer Control Strategic Plan aims to reduce cancer mortality by a third by 2028.

A new investment case for tuberculosis (TB) will be launched on World Tuberculosis Day to advocate for more resources to close gaps in prevention and care services. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus emphasized the health and economic benefits of investing in WHO-recommended interventions. TB remains a significant global health issue, killing over 3,500 people daily and infecting nearly 30,000 more. The Stop TB Partnership Kenya and other groups are advocating for the removal of taxes on health commodities, including TB drugs. The theme for World TB Day 2024 is 'Yes! We can end TB!', aiming to inspire hope and action against the TB epidemic.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and experts emphasize the importance of regular screening starting at age 45 to prevent colon or rectal cancer. Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, with over 1.9 million new cases and 930,000 deaths in 2020. Symptoms may include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and low iron levels. Risk reduction involves a healthy diet, physical activity, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol. Regular screenings can detect precancerous growths, reducing incidence and mortality. Treatments depend on cancer type and stage, with early detection improving outcomes.

Civil society groups in Kenya, led by the Nubian Rights Forum, are protesting against new rates for registration documents set by the Interior Ministry. The increased charges for National IDs, birth certificates, and passports are seen as a barrier, especially for marginalized, minority, and low-income communities. The Nubian Rights Forum's Executive Director, Shafi Hussein, highlighted the importance of these documents for societal participation and called for a reversal of the new regulations to ensure affordability and accessibility for all Kenyans.

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has launched the TACTiC project to address the underdiagnosis of Tuberculosis (TB) among children. The initiative aims to increase TB diagnosis and treatment in children, following new WHO recommendations. TACTiC supports projects in Africa and Asia, focusing on knowledge-building, advocacy for better diagnostic tools, and the implementation of short treatments for prevention. MSF emphasizes the need for more resources for research and development of new diagnostic tests.

Grace Kagondu, the 1st Vice President of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya, launched her presidential bid for the institution, emphasizing innovation, transformation, and impact. She plans to leverage youthful members and has a history of service in various professional bodies. The election is scheduled for March 21, and she aims to serve until 2026.

Dr. Catherine Nyongesa-Watta, the first female radiation oncologist in Kenya, founded the Cancer Texas Centre to address the cancer care gap in the country, inspired by her sister's battle with cancer. Despite a challenging upbringing, she pursued education and medicine, ultimately making significant contributions to healthcare in Kenya. The Cancer Texas Centre now serves 3,000 new cancer patients annually, reflecting her commitment to improving lives and healthcare outcomes.

A caucus of parliamentarians from East and Southern Africa has been launched in Nairobi to advocate for Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), focusing on challenges such as teenage pregnancy, access to healthcare, and education. The caucus aims to create a framework to address sexual reproductive health issues and foster sustainable growth. The chairperson, Ben Phiri, highlighted the right of women and girls to manage pregnancies and the need for information and education. Dr. Angela Akol of Ipas Africa Alliance noted setbacks in contraceptive access due to Covid-19, emphasizing the need for a unified strategy to improve reproductive health. Hivos Regional Director Kennedy Mugochi called for dedication to promoting comprehensive SRHR services.

Raila Odinga's potential bid to become the next Africa Union Commission chairperson has sparked concerns among his supporters about the future of opposition politics in Kenya. While his party ODM dismisses succession talks, experts suggest his exit could lead to significant shifts within the Azimio coalition and open doors for new leadership. Governance expert Javas Bigambo and Kenya National Civil Society Centre's Suba Churchill highlight the potential for political realignment and the emergence of new leaders, though Raila's influence may persist even if he transitions to a continental role.

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month in January aims to raise public awareness about cervical cancer, emphasizing prevention, screening, and treatment. Cervical cancer is the sixth most common cancer in women globally and the leading cause of cancer mortality in Kenya. Experts highlight that early detection and management make cervical cancer one of the most treatable cancers. Key risk factors include multiple sexual partners and early sexual activity. HPV vaccines for boys and girls aged 9-12 can prevent over 90% of HPV-related cancers. Symptoms of advanced cervical cancer include vaginal bleeding and lower abdominal pain. Comprehensive prevention, screening, and treatment strategies could potentially eliminate cervical cancer as a public health issue.

Albert Karakacha, chair of the Matatu Owners Association, urges the government to establish training schools for Public Service Vehicle drivers to reduce road accidents by 60 percent. He highlights the lack of proper training among drivers as a significant factor in accidents. The association also calls for the construction of a dual carriage road from Mombasa to Malava to decrease accidents in the Northern corridor. National Transport and Safety Authority statistics show an increase in road accident fatalities in January 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

Malawian women, including Chimwemwe Chiduleni and Nessie Kasiyabweya, are traveling to Kenya for cervical cancer treatment due to inadequate diagnostic services in Malawi. MSF has set up a temporary referral system to Kenya for treatment, as radiotherapy is not available in Malawi. Dr George Chilinda noted the lack of the HPV vaccine and screening challenges in Malawi. The country sees over 4,000 cervical cancer diagnoses and nearly 3,000 deaths annually, making it the most frequent cancer among Malawian women.

Break-ups are described as a form of loss, with psychologists emphasizing the importance of grieving through the five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Julia Waithera and Chitayi Murabula provide insights into these stages, referencing Elisabeth Kubler Ross's book 'On Death and Dying.' They advise on self-care practices such as engaging in activities that drive away negative energy, maintaining healthy sleep patterns, avoiding substance abuse, and connecting with friends to cope with the emotional pain of break-ups.

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases are significantly burdening Kenya's healthcare system, accounting for over half of hospital admissions and deaths. Cornelius Sayi's personal story highlights the financial and emotional toll of NCDs. Experts like David Makumi and John Gikonyo emphasize the need for preventive measures and healthy lifestyles to combat the rising incidence of NCDs. The World Health Organization and other organizations provide alarming statistics on the global impact of NCDs, urging for more investment in primary healthcare and prevention.

Stakeholders are raising concerns over a prolonged shortage of free condoms in Kenya, which is affecting the fight against new HIV infections, particularly among teenagers. The shortage is attributed to reduced donor funding and government-imposed taxes on donated medical commodities. AIDS Healthcare Foundation's Samwel Kinyanjui and other health advocates warn of increased STIs and unplanned pregnancies. Despite government assurances of ample condom supplies, distribution issues persist. The State is promoting a Triple Threat Initiative to address new HIV infections, sexual and gender-based violence, and adolescent pregnancies.

Security expert George Musamali criticized a directive by Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration Kithure Kindiki, which mandates that no police officer should serve in one station for more than three years, as unconstitutional. Musamali, a former General Service Unit officer, argued that the National Police Service Commission is responsible for police welfare and transfers, not the Cabinet Secretary. Political analyst Herman Manyora also disagreed with the directive, emphasizing the need to consider the human and family aspects of police officers. The directive has been communicated, and officers who do not comply within 60 days risk having their salaries stopped.

Israel's Ambassador to Kenya, Michael Lotem, expressed confidence in Israel's triumph following a surprise attack by Hamas terrorists from the Gaza Strip, which resulted in nearly 300 injuries and at least six deaths. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel is at war and vowed that the enemy would pay a heavy price. The Israel Defense Forces have launched retaliatory strikes, and the Magen David Adom emergency service has called for blood donations. Lotem urged Israel's allies, including Kenya, to condemn Hamas.

Carol Josephs Emoyo, a mother of three, shares the challenges of raising her 10-year-old son Bahati, who has a severe case of cerebral palsy and is fully dependent. After her husband's death due to depression following costly and unsuccessful treatments for Bahati, Emoyo became both mother and father to her children. Her experiences led her to start Smile for Neurodiversity, an NGO for persons with disabilities. World Cerebral Palsy Day on October 6 promotes awareness and support for individuals with the condition, which affects over 7 million people worldwide. Cerebral palsy, caused by abnormal brain development or damage, varies in severity and does not worsen over time. Treatments include medication, surgery, braces, and therapy, aiming to help those affected reach their full potential.

The Kenya Medical Practitioners Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) urges the government to address the existing challenges in the healthcare system, such as worker shortages and lack of drugs, before implementing a health promotion and disease prevention approach through Community Health Promoters (CHPs). KMPDU's secretary general, Davji Atellah, emphasizes the need for sufficient healthcare workers and resources to make the promotion approach effective. President William Ruto supports the deployment of CHPs to enhance Universal Health Coverage, with each promoter serving 100 homes and equipped with basic health screening tools and smartphones.

Alternative building technology, such as twist block technology, is providing sustainable and affordable housing solutions in informal settlements like Kibera, Kenya. This technology, which uses less cement and features interlocking blocks, is being promoted by the startup Startsomewhere. It offers thermal insulation, reduces construction costs, and improves living conditions. The World Bank predicts climate change could displace over 200 million people by 2050, highlighting the need for such innovations. The cement industry's significant CO2 emissions and the need for decarbonization were also discussed at the Africa Climate Summit, leading to the Nairobi declaration.

High interest rates and the high cost of building materials are major obstacles to housing finance for low and middle-income households in Kenya, as revealed by a Habitat for Humanity report. The report, which surveyed 11 counties, also cites unstable income and lack of collateral as barriers. It found that access to housing finance is more limited in urban areas compared to peri-urban and rural areas, and that formally employed individuals have better access than those informally employed. The report suggests interventions to build an inclusive housing finance system, including financing solutions for incremental housing development and increased funding for housing initiatives. This comes as the Kenyan government focuses on affordable housing as a key project.

The Cabinet is set to approve the construction of 25 additional dams next week, as part of a broader initiative to build 100 dams through Public-Private Partnerships. President William Ruto highlighted that this effort aims to address water scarcity and boost food security. The Ministry of Water and Sanitation reported that 23 international firms have shown interest in constructing the already approved 33 dams. Ruto also mentioned the completion of Radad dam by December and the resolution of issues surrounding the Arror and Kimwarer dams, which will benefit multiple regions in Kenya. The Kenya Kwanza manifesto underscores the importance of water and irrigation in transforming agriculture.

The Kenyan government is urged to address the shortage of healthcare workers as 76 nurses prepare to leave for the UK, following a bilateral labor agreement. The Kenya Union of Clinical Officers supports the opportunity for nurses but emphasizes the need to maintain adequate healthcare services in Kenya. Health CS Susan Nakhumicha reassures that the agreement will not deplete domestic healthcare resources. Approximately 20,000 nurses are expected to be employed in the UK over the next three years, with the first cohort already at Oxford University Hospital.

Religious leaders in Kenya, including the Inter-Religious Council of Kenya and the Evangelical Alliance of Kenya, oppose the introduction of comprehensive sex education in schools, advocating instead for parental and spiritual guidance. They argue that such education is contrary to Christian values and could lead to moral disorientation. The motion for comprehensive sex education, proposed by Kirinyaga Woman Representative Jane Njeri Maina, aims to address high rates of teenage pregnancies and improve public health by promoting healthy sexual practices. Data from the National Syndemic Disease Control Council highlights the urgency, showing significant HIV infection rates among young people.

Life-saving medical services are crucial, especially when accessible to those in need. Turkana County faces a triple burden of measles, malaria, and malnutrition, exacerbated by a recent measles outbreak and persistent malaria cases. MSF has been instrumental in addressing these health crises through mass vaccination, integrated case management, and community outreach. The Ekope family exemplifies the struggles faced by many, with children suffering from both measles and malaria. The ongoing drought has further worsened malnutrition among children and mothers. MSF's efforts include distributing mosquito nets and conducting numerous medical consultations to mitigate the impact of these diseases.

Dr Boniface Opondo warns that using Viagra without a prescription can be dangerous and potentially fatal, especially for individuals with chronic heart conditions. He emphasizes that Viagra should be taken under medical supervision and in prescribed doses to avoid health risks such as heart problems and strokes. The drug's recreational use has led to misuse and abuse, and Opondo advises adherence to directives issued by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board.

The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentist Union (KMPDU) disclosed that seven doctors have committed suicide in the past two years due to depression, exacerbated by prolonged unemployment. KMPDU Secretary General Davji Atellah highlighted the 'train and dump' policy as a contributing factor. The union and the Kenya Union of Clinical Officers (KUCO) emphasized the irony of the unemployment crisis amidst a healthcare worker shortage in Kenya. President William Ruto's government intends to recruit 20,000 healthcare workers, pending a Sh21 billion allocation from the Treasury over three years, as stated by Health CS Susan Nakhumicha.

Bondo MP Gideon Ochanda has denied leaving Raila Odinga's ODM party after he and eight other ODM MPs met with President William Ruto. The meeting was a follow-up to Ruto's development tour in Nyanza, with the MPs seeking assurance on the completion of promised projects. Despite criticism from ODM's Director of Communication Philip Etale, Ochanda affirmed their loyalty to ODM.

Azimio leader Raila Odinga's proposal to revert to a manual voting system has been opposed by the Election Observer Group (ELOG), led by National Coordinator Mulle Musau. ELOG advocates for reviewing and improving the current election technology rather than abandoning it. Raila, speaking at a Leadership Conference in Lagos, Nigeria, argued that election technology has been compromised, affecting the credibility of election management bodies.

Widow inheritance, a cultural practice in the Nyanza region of Kenya, is contributing to the spread of HIV/AIDS. The Luo community believes in sexual cleansing for widows, which has led to the emergence of professional widow inheritors. These practices have resulted in high HIV prevalence rates in counties like Homa Bay, Kisumu, Siaya, and Migori. Jackie Odhiambo, founder of Nyanam International, highlights the role of professional inheritors in the HIV dynamics and calls for legislative action to address widows' challenges. A widow named Mildred Odhiambo shared her experience of discrimination and loss of employment after her husband's death from HIV. The United Nations General Assembly and the Global Fund for Widows recognize the human rights violations and harmful practices faced by widows globally.

Ex-convicts should be given a second chance to reintegrate into society, according to Patrick Maringanyi, a welfare officer at Kitengela G.K Prison. He highlights the challenges ex-convicts face, including rejection and stigmatization, particularly for those convicted of serious crimes like rape. The Kenya Prison Rehabilitation Programme aims to reform and rehabilitate offenders, providing them with skills and counseling. President William Ruto supports remodeling the Kenya Prisons Service to enhance its capacity to impart entrepreneurial skills to inmates, aiding their successful reintegration.

The National Assembly of Kenya has begun the task of interviewing four selected commissioners for the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). Juliana Cherera was the first to be interviewed by the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee (JLAC) chaired by Kigumo MP Muturi Kigano. The committee also interviewed Francis Wanderi, who defended his capability to bring proper leadership to the electoral commission. Other commissioners include Irine Masit and Justus Nyang’aya, who were appointed by President Uhuru Kenyatta earlier this month. The positions became vacant following the resignations of Roselyne Akombe, Connie Maina, Margret Mwachanya, and Paul Kurgat.

Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta has announced a 60-day extension of existing coronavirus restrictions following a meeting with Health Minister Mutahi Kagwe and opposition leaders Raila Odinga, Musalia Mudavadi, Kalonzo Musyoka, and Moses Wetangula. The restrictions include a curfew from 10 pm to 4 am and a ban on political gatherings. The decision was influenced by increased infections in several counties. Attendance at weddings and funerals is capped at 100 people, and places of worship must adhere to previously issued guidelines by a council led by Bishop Anthony Muheria. Senator Gideon Moi and Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya were also present at the announcement.

Kenya has reported 1,506 new COVID-19 infections after testing 9,840 samples in the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of cases to 224,400 with a positivity rate of 15.3%. The number of recoveries has reached 207,450 with 1,538 new recoveries, while the death toll has risen to 4,378 with 24 more fatalities. There are 2,054 patients hospitalized and another 8,408 being cared for at home.

The Nyamira County Assembly has approved the appointment of Dr. James Gesami Ondicho as the Deputy Governor of the county. Gesami will be sworn in as the second deputy governor following Amos Nyaribo's swearing-in as Governor after the death of former Governor John Nyagarama. Despite initial rejection by the selection committee over lack of an ethics certificate and party approval, ward representatives unanimously endorsed Gesami's appointment. Gesami previously served as the MP for West Mugirango for two terms. His supporters celebrated outside the assembly upon hearing the news of his approval.

The search for new commissioners for Kenya's Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has officially concluded after two weeks of interviewing over 30 people. The selection panel, chaired by Dr. Elizabeth Muli, is now tasked with evaluating the candidates and recommending four names to President Uhuru Kenyatta to fill the vacancies. The final interviews included Roseline Odede, Rose Musyoka, and Professor Richard Oduor. The selected individuals will replace former commissioners Rosyline Akombe, Connie Maina, Margret Mwachanya, and Paul Kurgat who resigned.