Kenya’s Chief of Defense Forces(CDF) General Francis Omondi Ogolla is dead.

His death occurred following a tragic incident where a Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) helicopter crashed in Sindar, Elgeyo Marakwet County, on Thursday, April 18, 2024, during the afternoon.

His death was confirmed by President William Ruto on Thursday evening. Gen Ogolla died at the age of 61.

Ogolla who served as the highest-ranking military officer in Kenya leaves behind a distinguished legacy of service having provided counsel to the President and Cabinet. His military career began in 1984, rising through the ranks with notable achievements, including training as a fighter pilot with the United States Air Force.

Gen Ogolla held various command and staff appointments, contributing significantly to the effectiveness of the Kenya Air Force and Defence Forces.

Alongside his military duties, he was active in organizations such as the Military Christian Fellowship and the Association of African Air Chiefs.

In his personal life, he enjoyed golfing and reading, and he leaves behind his wife Aileen, two children, and a grandson.

Ogolla’s daughter Lorna Omondi mourned her dad as an effective leader and a statesman.

“My father, Pursuer of excellence, Most empathetic and effective leader and statesman just went down in chopper crash in West Pokot
Doing what he did best for the better part of the last 40 years - trying to keep Kenya Safe. One day I shall tell beautiful stories of how he taught with his actions and not with his words, But today - I rush home to send him off to the great beyond,” she wrote on her Linkedln account.

Jackie Matubia: Making of ‘Toxic’ Telenovela

Actress Jackie Matubia was unable to contain her emotions as she recounted the heartfelt journey behind the creation of her highly anticipated web series, 'Toxic'.

In a conversation with journalists, Matubia disclosed that she had poured all her savings into bringing the groundbreaking show to life, marking the first of its kind in Kenya.

"I invested all my savings into this project without any external sponsorship, solely from my own pocket. As a single mother balancing the duties of parenthood and financial obligations, there were moments of doubt along the way. But when something feels like a calling, it doesn't need to be rationalized to others," Matubia shared.

She expressed gratitude to her team for their unwavering support of her vision.

"The team I collaborated with could have charged their usual rates, which I couldn't afford. However, they agreed to work within my budget," she added emotionally.

Brimming with pride over the success of the show, Matubia revealed her achievement as the first Kenyan woman to erect a billboard without external sponsorship, a testament to her resilience and dedication.

Clarifying her stance as an artist and storyteller, Matubia emphasized that 'Toxic' wasn't drawn from her personal experiences.

"Every artist aspires to create something impactful. Despite doubts from some quarters, I believed in the vision," she affirmed.

When questioned about her personal life and the prospect of marriage, Matubia asserted that being a single mother is not an uncommon narrative.

"My story isn't unique. Let's prioritize authentic Kenyan narratives," she urged.

The star-studded premiere of 'Toxic' saw attendance from the entertainment industry's elite.

Matubia also paid tribute to the late actor Charles Ouda, acknowledging his significant contribution to the project.

"Charles penned the initial three episodes of 'Toxic' and sent me the third episode on the day he passed away," she revealed tearfully.

"It took me some time to muster the courage to open the third episode. He sent it in the morning, we met for lunch, and he passed away that night," Matubia reminisced.

It’s a girl for Marioo and Kajala!

Singer Marioo and his partner Paulah Kajala are anticipating the arrival of a baby girl. The lovebirds celebrated their star-studded gender reveal party on Wednesday evening. The gathering saw the presence of actors, singers, music producers, and other figures from the entertainment industry. As a push gift, Marioo surprised Paulah with a Mercedes Benz.

Paulah's mother, Fridah Kajala, also extended an apology to her daughter's father, P Funk Majani, for any past grievances in public interactions.

The relationship between Marioo and Paulah blossomed after Paulah ended her relationship with singer Rayvanny. Despite rumors circulating about their pregnancy, the couple chose to keep the news private until now.

Night Club at Uhuru Park - Sakaja

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has announced the construction of a nightclub at Uhuru Park.

Sakaja said this would give people an alternative to the opening of nightclubs in the estates.

"There is a nightclub that is going to be here. We agreed hiyo kupiga kelele kwa estate muache. You can come here and scream until the cows come home," he said.

"That is the zone, sherehe mfanyie hapo."

He said the additional projects in the park which also include Swahili and African restaurants among others will be built under the public-private partnership (PPPs).

The specific locations where the facilities will be put up, he said, have already been identified assuring those interested in running the businesses among others in the park that the process will be transparent.

Speaking during the handover ceremony of the park by the Ministry of Defence, Sakaja stated that they will soon be opening the tendering process as per the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act (PPDA).