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University lecturers have begun a nationwide strike over CBA disputes, halting academic activities. Nzoia Sugar workers also plan to strike over unpaid salaries. El Niño preparations are underway, with residents clearing drainage and prisons renovating low-lying facilities. President Ruto announced the Lamu refinery project expects Ksh908 billion in FDI, with oil extraction starting by December. He also criticized Senator Sifuna over the Dangote deal. CS Murkomen defended registering Kenyan voters in neighbouring countries. Meanwhile, youth leaders demand postponement of NYC elections. Title deeds are being distributed in coastal counties. Siaya Governor James Orengo plans to launch his own political party. The National Assembly Committee inspected Talanta Stadium progress for AFCON 2027. Harambee Stars lost a crucial qualifier.

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Ruto: Lamu refinery project to attract Ksh908B foreign direct investment

President William Ruto announced that the Lamu refinery project is expected to attract between $6 billion and $7 billion (Ksh778B - Ksh908B) in foreign direct investment next year. This investment is linked to a new pipeline project to transport crude oil from Turkana to Lamu. Kenya is set to begin extracting and transporting crude oil from Turkana before December as part of the nation's strategy to secure domestic supplies for the planned Lamu refinery. President Ruto has assured Lamu residents that no one will be displaced from the main site for the proposed oil refinery, stating the government has secured the land and will manage any compensation. He also explained the strategic rationale behind choosing Lamu as the location for the proposed Dangote refinery. Additionally, President Ruto has downplayed fears of regional rivalry over oil refinery projects in East Africa, stating that the growing demand for petroleum products can support multiple facilities.

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Preparations begin to mark one year since Raila Odinga's death

Preparations are underway to commemorate the first anniversary of the passing of Raila Odinga, a prominent figure in Kenyan politics. Siaya Governor James Orengo has revealed plans to launch his own political party, signaling a potential shift in the political landscape for the region. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula urged recipients of national honours to view their awards as a renewed commitment to public service and integrity. Meanwhile, the United States Senate has confirmed Henry Wooster as the new US Ambassador to Kenya by unanimous consent, with his appointment coming at a crucial time ahead of Kenya's 2027 General Election.

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Murkomen defends voter registration of Kenyans in neighbouring countries

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has defended the Kenyan government's decision to register voters residing in neighbouring countries, amidst emerging political debate. He also defended his plan to issue Kenyan identity cards and voter cards to Kenyans living in Uganda, a move criticized by the opposition as voter smuggling. Separately, youth leaders across Kenya are demanding the postponement of the National Youth Council (NYC) elections, citing significant issues with voter education and portal functionality.

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Ruto amshambulia Sifuna kuhusu mkataba wa Dangote, asema hatakubali mradi kuvurugwa

President William Ruto has criticized Senator Edwin Sifuna, accusing him of corruption and acting on behalf of former President Uhuru Kenyatta. A political storm has erupted between President Ruto and Edwin Sifuna, the Secretary-General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), over the Dangote Group's investment in Kenya. Meanwhile, President Ruto announced that a Ksh33 billion cement factory will be established in Kitui County, with a new investor in place.

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Suspected Cybercriminal Accused of Ksh96 Million Fraud Remanded After Dramatic Arrest

A suspected cybercriminal accused of defrauding a local bank and a sacco of millions has been ordered to remain in custody for 36 days after failing to appear in court. President William Ruto has announced significant enhancements to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Anti-Narcotics Unit as part of a stepped-up campaign against drug trafficking and abuse in Kenya, including more officers and vehicles. Separately, a new bill proposed in Kenya seeks to impose stricter regulations on foreign currency, including hefty penalties for hoarding. The proposed amendments to the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) Act aim to curb speculative hoarding that can destabilize the exchange market.

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Ruto Accuses Opposition of Extortion Over Dangote Sh2 Trillion Refinery

President William Ruto has accused opposition leaders of attempting to extort Nigerian businessman Aliko Dangote over his Sh2 trillion refinery investment in Lamu, promising to protect investors. He has intensified criticism of predecessor Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing him of neglecting the economic welfare of Taita Taveta County residents. The President has also targeted Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, accusing him of corruption and acting on behalf of former President Uhuru Kenyatta. A political storm has erupted between President Ruto and Sifuna over the Dangote Group's investment in Kenya.

Politics & Governance

Sifuna Secures Second Term as ODM Secretary-General After Tumultuous Election

Edwin Sifuna has successfully secured a second term as the Secretary-General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party following a tumultuous election process. The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties has also approved Senator Sifuna's application to reserve the name Linda Mwananchi Movement for a 90-day period. At a memorial service for Mwalimu Jackson Karua, Sifuna invoked the spirit of Kenya's 1963 independence, emphasizing the need to fight for a truly free nation. Separately, Siaya Governor James Orengo has announced plans to launch a new political vehicle, reportedly the LDP, for his 2027 presidential bid, signaling a potential shift in the opposition's leadership landscape.

Politics & Governance

COFEK Seeks Review of Sh2.2tn Dangote Lamu Refinery Project

The Consumers Federation of Kenya (COFEK) has petitioned the Public Private Partnerships Petition Committee to review Kenya's planned involvement in the proposed Sh2.2 trillion Dangote East Africa Oil Refinery and Petrochemical Complex in Lamu, raising concerns about the massive infrastructure project. Over 100 East African businesses are simultaneously embarking on a 12-day program to explore new opportunities in the Chinese market, aiming to move beyond traditional import relationships and secure bigger trade shares. Nairobi has also been recognized as one of five African cities to watch for significant technology and industrial growth, with projections indicating sustained economic expansion through 2050.

Business & Economy

Roam Raises Local Content in Electric Motorcycles to 40%

Electric motorcycle manufacturer Roam has significantly increased its use of locally sourced parts, boosting its domestic production capabilities to 40%. This development aligns with Kenya's push for local manufacturing and value addition in the transport sector. Meanwhile, Java House has expanded its East African network to 114 outlets with the opening of its first branch in Buruburu, Nairobi, demonstrating continued growth in Kenya's retail and hospitality sector. In a separate development, Turaco and VisionFund International have announced a global partnership aimed at expanding access to affordable insurance for low-income households in emerging markets, further diversifying Kenya's financial services landscape.

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El Niño Preparedness Measures Underway Across Kenya

Residents of Ruaka are proactively clearing drainage systems in preparation for the anticipated heavy El Niño rains, aiming to mitigate potential flooding in the area. The Kenyan Prisons Department has initiated renovation work on low-lying prisons nationwide to safeguard inmates and staff from the anticipated El Niño rains, which are expected to begin within weeks. Groundbreaking for the Lamu refinery has been delayed due to concerns over land compensation for affected communities, casting a shadow over the government's efforts to attract foreign investment. Additionally, Kenya recently celebrated its first national International Day of Older Persons with a Silver Dignity Walk in Nairobi, marking the beginning of the two-day IDOP Kenya 2026 National Conference.

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Talanta Stadium 95% Complete Ahead of December 31 AFCON Deadline

The Raila Odinga Talanta Stadium is nearing completion, with 95 percent of construction finished, as Kenya prepares to co-host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The stadium is being constructed as a key venue for the tournament, with a target completion date of December 31. The National Assembly Committee on Sports conducted an inspection of the Talanta Stadium to assess the progress of development projects at the site ahead of AFCON 2027. Following this inspection, Members of Parliament expressed confidence in Kenya's readiness to host the AFCON 2027 tournament. The National Assembly committee also stated confidence that the Talanta Stadium will meet CAF standards required for the tournament. Construction is advancing significantly at the Talanta Stadium in Jamhuri, Kenya, where the new 60,000-seater venue is taking shape in preparation for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

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