Facing severe climate change impacts like devastating droughts, women in Marsabit, Kenya, are finding empowerment and resilience through poultry farming.
Traditionally, in this patriarchal pastoralist society (similar to the Maasai), valuable livestock like goats, sheep, cows, and camels are owned solely by men. Poultry farming, however, offers women a rare opportunity for ownership and income.
Arbe Abudo, a local women’s leader, explains that droughts repeatedly wipe out traditional livestock, leaving families reliant on food aid. Chickens, in contrast, provide a steady source of eggs and meat even during harsh times.
Supported by conservation NGOs and the Voices for Just Climate Action programme, women’s groups received training and resources. They were given chicks and taught poultry keeping alongside kitchen gardening (growing sukuma wiki and spinach), significantly improving community nutrition.
The project established poultry houses and conical gardens, enabling households to build their own and sell surplus produce, boosting both food security and income.
This initiative empowers the indigenous Shurr community to secure resource rights, improve livelihoods, and protect their environment. It blends traditional knowledge with climate-smart innovations to build resilience in the drylands, aiming to amplify local voices in climate action using local resources and governance.
Abudo highlights the success, requesting more chickens and gardens, plus improved water access. Dr. Yussuf Wato (WWF-Kenya) notes the significance: poultry is the only livestock 100% owned by women in this patriarchal setting. Since chickens (“flying animals”) are culturally less valued than other livestock, men don’t compete for ownership, making it uniquely accessible to women.
To further enhance resilience, WWF-Kenya and partners like the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (Kalro) are exploring drought-resistant livestock breeds suitable for the arid conditions, moving towards improved quality herds. Dr. Tura Isako (Kalro) details community-based breeding programmes to disseminate these climate-smart breeds.
The project also provided energy-saving stoves (“jikos”) to replace inefficient three-stone fires. Users like Gumato Roba report benefits: less smoke, reduced firewood use (cutting collection trips from 3 to 1 per week), and decreased pressure on remaining trees.
Nancy Rapando (WWF-Kenya) emphasizes the project’s holistic impact: it diversifies diets (introducing vegetables to a pastoralist community), provides women with their first significant assets (enabling control over food and income), breaks taboos around eating chicken, saves energy, and protects the environment – collectively building community resilience against the climate crisis.
A tragic shooting incident at Ng’iya Police Post in Siaya County early Sunday morning has resulted in the deaths of two police officers, with authorities suspecting it may stem from a personal dispute or a mental health crisis.
The event took place around 6:00 a.m. when Constable Martin Mwendwa allegedly shot and killed his superior, Corporal Chesise, who was in charge of the station.
According to police reports, Mwendwa armed himself with a G3 rifle, entered the corporal’s residence, and opened fire—mortally wounding him in the chest and arms.
Gem Yala Sub-County Police Commander Charles Wafula confirmed the incident, stating that officers at the station responded promptly after the initial shots were fired.
Constable Mwendwa attempted to escape towards Ng’iya Girls’ High School but was intercepted and fatally shot by fellow officers during the ensuing confrontation.
While initial investigations suggest a potential personal disagreement between the two officers, police are also exploring the possibility that Mwendwa may have been experiencing a mental health crisis at the time of the incident.
“The matter is under investigation, and we are eager to determine the underlying cause. We are not dismissing any possibilities, including psychological distress,” Mr. Wafula stated.
The remains of both officers have been transported to Siaya County Referral Hospital mortuary for postmortem examinations as investigations into the circumstances surrounding the deadly altercation continue.
The family of Boniface Kariuki, the street vendor who was shot in the head by a rogue officer amid anti-police brutality demonstrations in Nairobi, has confirmed that he is brain dead.
In a statement to the media on Sunday, family spokesperson Emily Wanjira reported that medical staff at Kenyatta National Hospital have verified that Mwangi’s organs remain functional, but his brain is no longer active.
“Mwangi is confirmed brain dead. We understand the implications. We are simply waiting for the doctor to inform us that he has passed away,” she stated.
The family also mentioned that there are additional bullet fragments in his brain that have yet to be removed.
Kariuki has undergone two surgical procedures at Kenyatta National Hospital to extract the bullet lodged in his head and has been recovering in the Intensive Care Unit, where he is under constant medical supervision.
In a previous briefing, Kariuki’s father, Jonah Kariuki, disclosed that the hospital expenses have reached Ksh.1 million and continue to escalate each day.
The distressed family has also urged the judicial system to ensure justice is served by convicting and sentencing the police officers accountable for this crime.
A senior traffic officer was among two individuals who lost their lives in a devastating road accident on Saturday evening, June 28, 2025, along the Narok-Mai Mahiu highway.
The incident took place at approximately 10:00 p.m. near Duka Moja and involved three vehicles: a Scania trailer, a Toyota Prado TX, and a Toyota G-Touring.
As per police reports, the Scania trailer was heading from Narok to Mai Mahiu when the driver—whose identity remains unknown—failed to maintain the correct lane and swerved into oncoming traffic.
The trailer struck head-on with a Toyota Prado operated by Chief Inspector George Rotich Kipchumba, a senior officer at Narok Traffic Base.
The Prado was subsequently pushed into an oncoming Toyota G-Touring driven by Nicholas Mwiti, 45.
Both Chief Inspector Kipchumba and the unidentified driver of the trailer died on the spot.
A passenger in the Prado sustained serious head injuries and was rushed to Narok County Referral Hospital for medical attention.
Four unidentified passengers in the Scania trailer also suffered injuries and were taken to a hospital in Narok.
The remains of the deceased were moved to the Narok County Referral Hospital mortuary, awaiting identification and postmortem examinations.
The incident occurred at around 10:00 p.m. near Duka Moja and involved three vehicles: a Scania trailer, a Toyota Prado TX and a Toyota G-Touring.
Police in Kabete have successfully retrieved an AK-47 rifle that was taken from the Dagoretti Police Post amid the violent protests on June 25, 2025.
As per a statement from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) released on Saturday, the recovery was prompted by a tip regarding a suspicious individual seen with a bulging bag at Gravity Bar in the Gahui area.
Officers from the Kabete Police Station promptly acted on the intelligence and forensic evidence to track down the suspect.
Their inquiries directed them to a residence in the Njuki-Kirigu neighborhood, where it was believed the suspect was hiding.
However, the individual managed to escape upon noticing the officers’ presence.
A follow-up search of the residence—conducted with the suspect’s mother present—resulted in the discovery of an AK-47 rifle, an empty magazine, and a single round of 7.62mm special ammunition.
Forensic checks confirmed that the firearm and ammunition were part of the items stolen from the Dagoretti Police Post during the recent disturbances.
According to law enforcement, a manhunt for the suspect is currently in progress.
32-year-old Edwin Okondo Nyagaga arrested ferrying bhang valued at approximately Ksh.13.7 million. [PHOTO| DCI]
On Thursday, police in Migori County apprehended a 32-year-old man suspected of drug trafficking and confiscated a significant amount of bhang worth around Ksh.13.7 million.
Following a tip-off, officers from Oruba Police Station stopped a black Toyota Kluger, registration number KBS 517N, which was being driven by Edwin Okondo Nyagaga, on the Giribe-Masara Road.
The vehicle was loaded with illegal goods, containing eight sacks of bhang that weighed a total of 457.6 kilograms.
In addition to the drugs, authorities also found four license plates—KBP 716H, KBT 673F, KBW 341T, and KBX 142P—that are suspected to have been used to disguise the vehicle’s identity during the trafficking activities.
Okondo, along with the seized narcotics and vehicle, was taken to Oruba Police Station for processing and will be arraigned soon.
Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen has revealed that the government has not set aside any funds to compensate victims whose properties were either looted or damaged during the protests on Wednesday, June 25.
In a press conference, he elaborated that Parliament needs to pass legislation that outlines compensation for these victims and also enforce stricter penalties on those who organize protests.
He emphasized the importance of regulating protests to ensure that organizers are held accountable for any property damage or looting that occurs.
“Regrettably, Parliament has not designated a budget for compensating individuals whose properties were looted in such events, and as a government, we currently have no funds allocated for this purpose,” he remarked.
“If we were to create a budget that compensates individuals every time properties are looted, then the most effective law would be to hold protest organizers primarily responsible.”
“This is why we advocate for legislation that specifies where organizers can hold their demonstrations, at what times, and in which locations. Mombasa serves as a model for how public protests should be conducted.”
However, he mentioned that the leaders would personally contribute to assist those who have suffered significant losses.
Additionally, the CS alleged that ‘goons’ created chaos until midnight, robbing civilians who were returning home.
“The destruction continued until midnight. Goons were brought in from Murang’a, Nyeri, and Kirinyaga, and were left in the city; others were on Thika Road, causing havoc on their way home. The police were overwhelmed,” he observed.
“It is challenging when such a large group of goons, criminals, thugs, and robbers congregates in one area, gathered by politicians.”
According to Murkomen, property worth billions was damaged during the protests, noting that the goons specifically targeted supermarkets, electronic stores, and restaurants.
Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire has launched a fierce criticism against former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accusing him of allegedly funding violent groups to infiltrate recent protests led by youth, resulting in significant destruction in Embu town and Kiritiri.
Speaking to the media after inspecting the damaged areas, Governor Mbarire condemned what she termed a deliberate attempt by Gachagua, along with a group of local leaders, to provoke unrest aimed at undermining her administration and her leadership credentials.
“I am fed up with the ongoing sabotage. These protests were taken over and weaponized to portray my government as weak, yet we are aware of the source of the orders,” Mbarire stated.
The governor claimed that the supposed scheme to incite disorder was planned during a recent political meeting in Embu town, which took place during the launch of the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) candidates. At this event, Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji was endorsed as the preferred gubernatorial candidate for the Gachagua-led party in the upcoming 2027 elections.
Governor Mbarire accused MP Mukunji of serving as a stand-in for Gachagua, pushing a “divisive and destructive political agenda” aimed at destabilizing Embu County. She asserted that Mukunji was directly involved in organizing and coordinating the violent protests that shook the area.
“These are not just simple demonstrations — this is a deliberate assault on the stability and prosperity of Embu. I will not permit anyone, no matter their political position, to drive away investors or disrupt services,” she emphasized.
Mbarire reported that 23 individuals were injured during the protests, including 18 police officers. One officer is in critical condition and receiving treatment at Embu Level 5 Hospital.
Numerous government and private entities were also impacted, including the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), National Social Security Fund (NSSF), Post Bank, National Government offices, and Safaricom’s Embu branch, all of which suffered extensive vandalism.
Law enforcement officials have detained 25 demonstrators who are allegedly responsible for the disorder observed in Kikuyu, Kiambu County, during the anniversary protests on Wednesday.
As per a police report, a peaceful march escalated into chaos when a group of troublemakers obstructed the Southern Bypass and the Old Kikuyu Road with stones and ignited bonfires using old vehicle tires.
The police asserted that the individuals were recruited from Limuru and Kiambu Counties and transported to Kikuyu in three lorries.
“As a result, KPS, APS, and DCI collaboratively confronted the rioters, whose numbers swelled to around 10,000. The police were overwhelmed, prompting the SCPC to request additional support from the Kiambu County Headquarters,” the report partially stated.
The clashes between the troublemakers and the police persisted for 30 minutes until the reinforcement team, led by APS County Commander Ismael Ahmed, arrived with both NPS and prison officers from various stations in Kiambu and Murang’a Counties.
The report indicated that the Kikuyu Law Courts, County Government offices, Dagoretti Police Post, and DCC’s office had already been set ablaze.
At the Dagoretti police post, the rioters successfully stole five firearms, which included two AK-47 rifles, a G3 rifle, a Jericho pistol, and an anti-riot gun.
Moreover, the police thwarted an attempt by the rioters to seize five firearms from the Sub-County APS armory. Due to the violence, one individual lost their life, and five officers were injured.
“The rioters transported the body of the deceased to an undisclosed location and later approached the Kikuyu Police Station area around 1800 hours via the link road, abandoning the body at the main gate of the Kikuyu Police Station,” the report states.
According to the police, the confrontation persisted until 10:00 pm when the rioters moved towards the Kikuyu Affordable Housing units and began vandalizing the property. Shortly thereafter, the officers intervened and successfully apprehended four suspects.
In total, law enforcement apprehended 25 individuals involved in the riots and stated that investigations are still in progress to capture the remaining offenders.
Let’s be real: “student” and “millionaire” are two words you rarely see in the same sentence. Between tuition fees, textbook sticker shock, and the irresistible allure of late-night pizza, managing your money in college can feel like trying to solve an advanced calculus problem after three hours of sleep. It’s messy, confusing, and you’re pretty sure you’re doing it wrong.
But what if you could turn your financial chaos into organized calm? What if you could actually save money without giving up your social life?
Welcome to 2025, where your smartphone is your secret weapon for financial domination. Forget complicated spreadsheets and crumpled receipts. The right budgeting app can transform you from a broke student into a savvy money manager, all from the palm of your hand.
Here are the best budgeting apps for students in 2025, designed to help you track your spending, crush your financial goals, and maybe even have enough left over for something other than instant noodles.
1. Mint: The All-in-One Powerhouse
Best for: Students who want a complete, automated picture of their finances.
For years, Mint has been the undisputed king of free budgeting apps, and for good reason. It’s the ultimate “set it and forget it” tool. You securely connect your bank accounts, credit cards, and student loans, and Mint automatically categorizes your transactions, tracks your spending, and shows you exactly where your money is going.
Why It’s Great for Students:
Automatic Tracking: No need to manually input every coffee purchase. Mint does the heavy lifting for you.
Customizable Budgets: Set spending limits for categories like “Restaurants,” “Shopping,” or “Entertainment,” and get alerts when you’re getting close to your limit.
Bill Reminders: Avoid late fees with timely reminders for your phone bill, subscriptions, and credit card payments.
Free Credit Score: Keep an eye on your credit health, which is crucial for your financial future.
The Catch:
The app is ad-supported, which can be a bit distracting.
Sometimes transactions get miscategorized, requiring a quick manual fix.
2. YNAB (You Need A Budget): The Proactive Planner
Best for: Students who are serious about changing their spending habits and giving every shilling a job.
YNAB isn’t just an app; it’s a financial philosophy. Instead of just tracking past spending, YNAB forces you to plan for the future by assigning a “job” to every single dollar you have. It operates on the principle of zero-based budgeting, which means you budget only the money you currently have.
Why It’s Great for Students:
The “Four Rules” Method: YNAB’s methodology is incredibly effective for gaining control over your money and breaking the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle (or, in this case, the student-loan-to-student-loan cycle).
Goal Tracking: Easily set up and track savings goals for things like a spring break trip, a new laptop, or paying off debt.
Free for Students: YNAB offers a full free year to college students—an incredible value for a premium service.
The Catch:
It has a steeper learning curve than other apps. You have to be committed to the process.
After the free year, it’s a paid subscription service.
3. PocketGuard: The “Am I Broke?” Simplifier
Best for: Students who get overwhelmed easily and just want to know one thing: “How much can I spend today?”
PocketGuard simplifies budgeting down to its most basic element. After linking your accounts and identifying your recurring bills and income, it calculates how much “spendable” money you have left in your pocket for the day, week, or month.
Why It’s Great for Students:
Incredibly Simple: The “In My Pocket” feature is a game-changer for preventing overspending.
Subscription Tracker: PocketGuard is fantastic at finding and highlighting all your recurring subscriptions (like Netflix, Spotify, etc.) so you can decide which ones to cancel.
Automated Savings: Set up a savings goal, and the app will automatically move small amounts of money to your savings account for you.
The Catch:
The free version is quite limited; many of the best features are behind a paywall (PocketGuard Plus).
4. Goodbudget: The Digital Envelope System
Best for: Students who prefer a hands-on, manual approach and want to budget with a partner or roommate.
Remember your grandparents putting cash into different envelopes for “Groceries,” “Rent,” and “Fun Money”? Goodbudget is the modern, digital version of that tried-and-true method. You manually create digital “envelopes” for your spending categories and allocate your income to them.
Why It’s Great for Students:
Mindful Spending: Because you have to manually track your spending against your envelopes, it forces you to be more conscious of every purchase.
Shared Budgets: Easily sync your budget with a roommate to manage shared expenses like rent, utilities, and groceries.
Debt Paydown Planning: The app has dedicated features to help you create a plan to tackle student loans or credit card debt.
The Catch:
It’s a manual system, which requires more discipline than automated apps like Mint.
The free version limits the number of envelopes you can create.
5. M-Pesa App (For Kenyan Students): The Local Champion
Best for: Students in Kenya who do most of their transactions via M-Pesa.
While not a traditional budgeting app, the Safaricom M-Pesa app has evolved into a powerful financial tool. Its built-in analytics provide a surprisingly detailed look at your spending habits.
Why It’s Great for Students in Kenya:
Seamless Integration: Since most daily transactions happen on M-Pesa, the spending analytics are automatically populated and highly accurate.
Visual Spending Categories: The app automatically categorizes your Paybill and Buy Goods transactions into areas like “Transport,” “Entertainment,” and “Groceries,” showing you exactly where your mobile money is going.
No Extra Apps Needed: It leverages a tool you already use daily, reducing the need to download and learn a new system.
The Catch:
It only tracks your M-Pesa spending, so you’ll need to manually account for cash or bank card transactions.
Budgeting features are basic; it’s more for tracking than for proactive planning.
The Takeaway
The best budgeting app is the one you’ll actually use. Whether you need the automated power of Mint, the disciplined philosophy of YNAB, the simplicity of PocketGuard, the manual control of Goodbudget, or the local convenience of the M-Pesa app, there’s a tool out there to fit your style.
Stop letting your finances control you. Download one of these apps today, and take the first step toward a richer future—one where you’re the one in charge.
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