The Online Kenyan

Ahead of the April 27 school reopening for the second term, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued a stringent safety advisory to schools to prevent road accidents involving learners. The NTSA has also directed motorists to verify and collect their processed number plates to clear a backlog, advising them to check the status of their plates online before visiting service centres. Meanwhile, the National Taxpayers Association is warning of exploitative transport fare hikes by some operators, claiming current increases go beyond justified costs due to rising fuel prices.

The Orange Democratic Movement has urged the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal to allow it to handle Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna's case internally, arguing the ongoing disciplinary process is lawful and should run its course before external intervention. This request comes as ODM has declared its intention to compete for power in 2027 irrespective of political zoning strategies, with one ODM official vowing that the party 'fears no one.' The party has signaled a strong political stance against President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance, vowing to compete nationwide in 2027. Meanwhile, a new wave of young, assertive politicians empowered by Gen Z voters are emerging as significant forces to challenge established political figures in Kenya's 2027 elections. A separate strategy has emerged where President Ruto is positioning Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as a potential successor to secure Mt Kenya's loyalty for the 2027 and 2032 elections.

Executives in Kenya's manufacturing sector are expressing significant pessimism regarding economic growth prospects over the upcoming 12 months. Kenyan manufacturers are calling on the government to implement supportive policies for local industries, emphasizing the potential to significantly boost the nation's GDP. Separately, new car owners in Kenya are set to face higher taxes due to increased costs associated with clearing vehicles at the port of Mombasa.

Amos Odongo of Golf Park has emerged victorious, clinching the inaugural NCBA Masaku Open title in Machakos, showcasing exceptional skill to secure the historic win. Celestine Nsanzuwera of Rwanda emerged victorious at the opening leg of the Sunshine Development Tour, showcasing a dominant performance. Additionally, Maahir Patel claimed the Coast Junior Open Golf title after a strong performance that saw him lead on the final day of the three-day competition.

Organisers of the Absa Kip Keino Classic are promising an event of a lifetime as the highly anticipated meet returns to Nyayo Stadium, featuring top global talent and thrilling athletics competitions. The event is serving as a crucial platform to prepare Kenya's youth for the upcoming World U20 Championships in Oregon, America. Meanwhile, the Eldoret City Marathon is scheduled to take place this Sunday, with organizers confirming their readiness and announcing prizes for winners.

President William Ruto has begun a three-day official visit to Italy, commencing with a meeting with President Sergio Mattarella in Rome. His statements defending Kenya's high fuel prices compared to other East African nations are facing scrutiny amidst broader concerns about the country's economic standing. Separately, the National Taxpayers Association issued a warning against inflated PSV fares after a recent fuel price increase.

The National Treasury has taken over financial and governance oversight for Kenya Seed Company and the Agricultural Finance Corporation (AFC). Meanwhile, maize farmers across Kenya are expressing deep concern over a severe shortage of fertilizer, fearing it will significantly impact their harvest yields. Additionally, the Kenyan government ordered the closure of the Kenya Institute of Management (KIM) and canceled certificates of thousands of its students nationwide, with TVETA citing rule violations.

Rights groups and civil society organizations are sounding the alarm over alleged illegal land acquisition by gold mining companies in Western Kenya, specifically in Kakamega, Vihiga, and Siaya counties. They are calling for a halt to mining activities until a resolution is found, citing widespread concerns about the impact of these operations on communities and the environment.