SEO Article

On Wednesday, the county government of Nairobi shut down the Grand Lodge of East Africa’s Freemasons’ Hall over alleged land rates arrears mounting up to Ksh19 million, eliciting a heated debate on what freemasonry is all about.

The move by the county opened discussion surrounding Freemasonry, often perceived as secretive, leading to speculation about its activities and influence.

Some Kenyans see it as a fraternal group focused on charity and personal development, while others associate it with mystery, conspiracy theories surrounding devil worshipping and ritualistic practices, and religious concerns.

"I feel like we have been very misinformed a lot about Freemasonry. Just like we have been misinformed about nutrition, education, medicine, religion, and governance. All the things that we were told were bad are not bad, as we have realised. We have always been given the opposite info," a Kenyan told Maina Kageni on Thursday.

The Grand Lodge of East Africa’s Freemasons’ Hall in Nairobi, May 14, 2025.

Photo

District Grand Lodge of East Africa, Freemasons’ Hall, Nairobi - Kenya

In this piece, we look at what Freemasonry is all about. According to its official website, Freemasonry is one of the world's oldest secular fraternal societies, which originated in Scotland.

It is a society of men concerned with moral and spiritual values. Its members are taught its precepts by a series of ritual dramas. 

The essential qualification for admission into and continuing membership is a belief in a Supreme Being. Membership is open to men of any race or religion who can fulfil this essential qualification and who are of good reputation.

The organisation, however, has clarified that it is neither a religious organisation nor is it a substitute for such.

"Freemasonry is not a religion, nor is it a substitute for religion. The one essential qualification means that Freemasonry is open to men of many religions, and it expects and encourages them to continue to follow their faith. It is not permitted for Freemasons to discuss religion at Masonic meetings," the organisation explains on its official site.

The organisation is involved in several charity projects. Some charities benefiting from it are hospitals, schools, community centres, the elderly, the terminally ill, and many more needy members of society. 

The brotherhood is driven by three major values, which are brotherly love, relief, and truth. Members are graded in four categories, which are life member, patron, grand patron, and Lodge/Chapter Grand Patron.

It has a significant presence across Africa, with numerous lodges operating under different Grand Lodges, including the District Grand Lodge of East Africa, that covers Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Seychelles.

Freemasons' Hall in Johannesburg, South Africa, serves as a key centre for Masonic activities. Sharook Riviera Grand Lodge in Zanzibar, Tanzania, is part of the broader Grand Lodge of Africa.

Stone Laying Ceremony in Kampala, November 16, 2024.

Photo

Grand Lodge of Africa

You have likely noticed that most petrol stations in major towns—both locally and abroad—feature flat-roofed structures.

Interestingly, it is not just the canopies covering fuel pumps; nearby facilities like cafes, supermarkets, toilets, and garages within the station compounds also share the same design.

But have you ever paused to wonder why this is the case? Kenyans.co.ke explores the practical reasons behind the widespread use of flat roofs at petrol stations.

Flat roofs have long been a staple in commercial architecture, as they offer a range of benefits that make them an ideal choice for many businesses.

Emergency Response

According to experts, in the event of emergencies such as blazes, the use of flat roofs makes it easier for blaze rescue teams to extinguish an inferno. Pitched roofs make it hard for emergency responders to effectively band and easily put out blazes.

Additionally, the spread of a blaze on flat roofs is slower compared to pitched-roof structures.

Motorists queuing for petroleum products at a petrol station in Nyahururu, overlooking is the flat roof design.

Photo

Inooro TV

Flammability 

Some petroleum products are highly flammable. As such, the petrol stations should be designed such that the temperatures are regulated; thus, the roof is built as flat and raised slightly higher than any other roofs within the vicinity. 

Flat roofs are also ideal for installing reflective coatings and green roofing systems, which help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce energy consumption. 

Reflective, such as the white coatings applied on the roofs, minimise heat absorption, keeping the building cooler during hot seasons.

Versatility

Flat roofs offer flexibility in design and functionality as they can accommodate various mechanical and electrical systems without disrupting the building’s aesthetic. 

This versatility allows architects and builders to create innovative solutions that meet the unique needs of petrol stations, from additional workspace to roofs that improve air quality and reduce urban heat.

Additionally, flat roofs can be utilised for recreational spaces or solar panel installations, maximising the utility of the rooftop area. Their design simplicity also translates to easier and more cost-effective maintenance and repair.

Space Maximisation

Flat roofs offer an efficient way to maximise usable space, often serving as ideal locations for housing HVAC systems. These systems—responsible for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning—help maintain indoor comfort by warming spaces using furnaces or heat pumps, circulating fresh air while removing pollutants and moisture, and cooling interiors while regulating humidity.

A random petrol station, March 12, 2025.

Photo

GROK

Maintenance 

Flat roofs are typically more economical to install and maintain than pitched roofs. Their straightforward design necessitates fewer materials and less labour, leading to lower initial installation expenses for petrol stations.

Additionally, the straightforward maintenance reduces long-term expenses, making flat roofs a budget-friendly option for commercial properties.

Water Drainage 

Despite being referred to as flat roofs, they are slightly sloped in their design to facilitate water drainage. Flat roofs use advanced materials and drainage systems to prevent water accumulation, reducing the risk of leaks and structural damage. 

This effective water management is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the petrol station.

Building Codes and Aesthetic Considerations

Across the world, major cities have building codes that impose certain limits and restrictions on building heights due to a number of reasons, among them aviation safety. 

Flat roofs help in adhering to these regulations so that petrol stations do not have to undergo constant readjustments that might compromise safety while providing a modern and streamlined appearance that aligns with contemporary architectural trends. 

A petrol station shelling under construction in Kenya.

Photo

SBF Interiors

President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto hosted King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands for a state banquet at State House, Nairobi. The event, held on the evening of March 18, was part of the royal couple’s four-day visit to Kenya.

While the banquet was a formal diplomatic event, Rachel Ruto’s outfit became a topic of discussion among Kenyans. Many took to social media to comment on her choice of attire, which stood out during the high-profile occasion.

The First Lady wore a long black dress with fringed embroidered detailing and long sleeves, a style commonly worn by women in the UAE.

Photos and videos of the event quickly surfaced online, drawing mixed reactions. Some praised her for the sophisticated look, while others debated whether the outfit was appropriate for the occasion.

President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto(right) host King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima(left) of the Netherlands for a state banquet at State House Nairobi,March 18, 2025.

Photo

William Ruto

Many were of the opinion that the dress worn by the First Lady was not appropriate for a state banquet but rather for a more sombre event.

“The Kenyan First Lady’s outfit leans more towards a sombre Sunday service than the elegance and glamour expected at a state banquet,” one Kenyan opined on X. “Dress is a (diplomatic) statement,” another emphasised.

At a state banquet, the First Lady’s attire usually reflects elegance, formality, and cultural respect. Rachel chose a long black dress paired with a white pearl necklace and elegant black heels with a touch of silver. She then completed the look with a small black clutch bag.

A floor-length evening gown paired with understated yet classy jewellery, such as pearls or diamond earrings, is a common choice for such an occasion. The style should be sophisticated and appropriate while enhancing the look without being overly flashy.

While a touch of neutral or bold colours and cultural elements, such as traditional fabrics or accessories, is encouraged, it may surprise some that a dark colour like black, as chosen by Rachel, is also acceptable. A black dress is a classic and elegant choice for a state banquet, exuding sophistication and formality. President Ruto complemented her look with a black tuxedo and a bow tie.

Queen Máxima, on her part, wore a two-piece outfit by Claes Iversen and accessorised with a sapphire tiara.

Rachel has always been fashion-savvy, delivering elegance at state events. During the welcoming ceremony for the King and Queen, she wore an ankara dress paired with brown Bally Obrien Classic heels.

Kenya and the Netherlands seek to deepen their partnership across key sectors to foster sustainable growth and mutual prosperity.

First Lady Rachel Ruto(right) host Queen Máxima(left) of the Netherlands during the welcoming ceremony, March 17, 2025.

Photo

Rachel Ruto

President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto(right) host King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima(left) of the Netherlands at the state banquet, State House Nairobi,March 18, 2025.

Photo

Screengrab from Video

The iconic Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) is set to unveil a new feature that will redefine Nairobi’s skyline.

KICC will launch a state-of-the-art dancing water fountain, inspired by Dubai's iconic water displays outside the famous Dubai Mall in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The project, which cost Ksh100 million, aims to enhance the visitor experience by introducing a breathtaking fusion of water, light, and music.

"This is one of a kind in the African continent, usually seen in Dubai. We have similar ones at the Burj Khalifa, and that is what we are bringing here in Kenya at the KICC," explained Geoffrey Thande, KICC's Director of Business Development.

The KICC dancing fountain set to be launched in March, March 14, 2025.

Photo

Screengrab from KBC

"The reason we are doing this is that we are in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) business. So when delegates come here for meetings, what else can they do? What else can they enjoy in our Kenyan market? We feel that, apart from the national parks, they can also enjoy this," Thande continued.

So, is this the first time Kenya has had such monuments?

Interestingly, this is not the first time KICC has had dancing fountains. In 1973, KICC had a similar fountain installed, which primarily sprayed water into the air.

KICC is essentially upgrading the 1973 fountains to world-class standards.

Details of the KICC dancing fountain

The new fountains are quite different from the 1973 ones. They will feature a musical and dancing aspect, operated by robotics, computers, and artificial intelligence.

They will be capable of creating various patterns of water sprayed into the air while simultaneously producing different coloured lights, allowing clients to align with the theme. In comparison, the Dubai Mall fountain features 6,600 lights and 25 coloured projectors.

The old fountains at KICC used to get dirty very quickly—within a week—and consumed nearly a million litres of water, which had to be discarded, making them unsustainable. However, the new fountain will use the same water for six months, with only top-ups to compensate for evaporation losses.

Additionally, they will feature computerised robotic cleaning machines that will move along the bottom of the fountains, handling all cleaning tasks and removing deposits and dirt.

For sustainability, the dancing fountain will be connected to a solar plant in Tsavo, which will provide the necessary power. The fountains have 30 motors ranging in capacity from 2.2 to 8 kilowatts, consuming a significant amount of energy, making solar power a necessity.

Why the fountains?

The installation of the dancing fountains at the KICC is expected to bring several positive changes including creating a visually stunning and immersive experience for visitors, combining water, light, and music in a captivating display. This will make KICC a more attractive destination for both local and international tourists.

It is also expected to increase foot traffic by drawing large crowds, especially during themed shows, family extravaganzas, and cultural performances held every weekend.

To mark the launch, KICC is organizing an exclusive inaugural event before the end of March. The showcase will feature live music, special effects, and an invitation-only audience of corporate executives, event planners, and media representatives.

The dancing fountain at KICC almost completed, March 14, 2025.

Photo

Screengrab from KBC

It is possible to change the dependents including the children and spouses registered in your Social Health Authority (SHA) cover, SHA leaders have revealed.

While Kenyans are still getting accustomed to the SHA system which is barely a year old, questions continue to arise regarding its operations. 

During a live space session on X (formally Twitter) on Wednesday, Kenyans sought to find out if it was possible to change dependents, especially spouses.

If you and the partner who you had registered under your SHA as dependents separate, divorce, or in the worst scenario die, it is possible to make those changes and add a new spouse after moving on.

Patients and members of the public, at Mbagathi County Hospital, having their queries about the Social Health Authority SHA, addressed, January 31, 2025

Photo

Social Health Authority

Requirements

Explaining to Kenyans how it's done, SHA representative, Gilbert Osoro, revealed that it is very possible and easy for a contributor to amend the list of the beneficiaries but they would need evidence in the form of documents to support their cases.

In the event of a new spouse, the contributor must submit an ID and proof of marriage which is a marriage certificate.

In the event of a divorce, the member must produce a decree of divorce to show that indeed they are divorced and want them off their SHA scheme.

"The law has made it clear that for a union of marriage, it must be registered and the proof is the marriage certificate, in events of divorce then the member must produce a decree of divorce and in the unfortunate events of death, they must adduce a death certificate for purposes of carrying out amendments," Osoro explained.

For parents who have adopted children, they must produce a court order that pronounces that the children have been adopted, and if the child has a guardian, the parents must produce a will or a court order. For biological children, parents must produce birth certificates and birth notifications.

How to Change

After producing all these documents for the specific case, the member may then proceed to their SHA system, log in, upload the documents then update the details of the dependents if they have already registered.

For members who have not registered for SHA, at the point of registration, the SHA portal provides a section for adding dependents. Members should go to the SHA portal, click Add Dependent then specify the type of dependent they want to add be it a spouse or children and then register them.

In adding a spouse, the spouse must, first of all, have registered to SHA independently because registration is based on households.

Osoro revealed that the biggest challenge that they were facing was that while Kenyans have registered for SHA, they do not log into the system to update their details explaining why sometimes patients go to the hospital and are told that they are not registered.

Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa, with Kenyatta National Hospital CEO Dr Evanson Kamuri, interacting with a mother at the hospital, January 16, 2025.

Photo

MoH