Comprehensive daily news summaries and story collections from Kenya
President William Ruto officially received Letters of Credence from three new ambassadors to Kenya at State House, Nairobi, on Wednesday. In a separate diplomatic development, President Ruto bid farewell to outgoing National Security Advisor Ambassador Monica Juma as she prepares to assume new leadership positions at the United Nations. Meanwhile, Kenya is actively campaigning to secure a judgeship for its Supreme Court Judge Njoki Ndung'u at the International Criminal Court. Additionally, President William Ruto has appointed Justice Mohamed Warsame to the Supreme Court of Kenya following parliamentary approval.
The 2025 Economic Survey highlights a significant increase in unclaimed financial assets, now totaling over Sh5.2 billion, a rise from the Sh4.3 billion recorded last year. The report also indicates a growing county debt and a decline in real wages. This data comes as National Treasury officially hunts for Sh201 billion in additional revenue to address fiscal challenges. Additionally, the government has moved to double the controversial e-Citizen convenience fee, adding to the financial pressures on citizens.
Rigathi Gachagua, leader of the DCP party, has accused an individual within the United Opposition of being a mole working to benefit President William Ruto's re-election campaign. The accusation was made in Kandara. Separately, prominent Orange Democratic Movement politicians James Orengo and Babu Owino have visited the Directorate of Criminal Investigations headquarters following claims of a special police unit's deployment in Kisumu County to target opposition supporters. The Jubilee Party, under former President Uhuru Kenyatta, has faced a setback as the Kenyan government halted a planned leadership reshuffle within the party.
Following recent deadly attacks in Kitui County, Kenya's Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has pledged enhanced security measures. He assured residents that the government's security agencies have been directed to bolster their efforts to prevent further violence. Meanwhile, residents of Embu town are expressing growing concern over a recent surge in crime, citing a perceived breakdown in law and order. Tragedy also struck in Vihiga County as families mourn following clashes between police and bodaboda operators, with confrontations resulting in significant loss and distress for the community.
Police FC maintained their third position on the Kenyan Premier League standings after securing a crucial 2-1 victory over Murang'a Seal FC. The FKF Premier League is heating up as teams fiercely compete for top positions in the ongoing season. This follows Police FC's earlier climb to third place in the league standings following a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the same opponent, demonstrating consistent performance.
Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi announced the recent fuel shortage has been resolved, attributing it to an administrative and technical hitch. However, a widespread fuel shortage had caused concern across Kenya, with many petrol stations reportedly running dry despite government assurances. The private sector faced significant pressure in April as escalating fuel prices, influenced by the Middle East conflict, led to increased business expenses and a downturn in consumer spending. This combination of supply disruptions and rising costs created compounding challenges for Kenyan businesses and consumers.
A widespread fuel shortage is currently affecting several towns across Kenya, with Nairobi experiencing the most severe impact. Motorists are facing long queues and some stations are running dry, creating significant disruption. Matatu operators from the Mwiki route staged a protest in the Nairobi CBD on Wednesday, May 6, disrupting public transport and citing ongoing extortion, insecurity, and interference from unknown groups. The Kenyan government is actively working to resolve the fuel supply issue.
Kenya's Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards, Mary Muthoni, has been elected as the new Chairperson of the African Permanent and Principal Secretaries for Health during a high-level meeting in Brazzaville focused on cross-border health security. Healthcare workers in Kenya are experiencing alarmingly high rates of burnout, characterized by profound physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion due to chronic workplace stress, negatively impacting patient care. On International Midwives Day, a critical shortage of midwives and nurses in Kenya was highlighted, with calls for urgent government intervention. Kenya, in collaboration with KEMRI, has also launched the TRACE project to investigate the impact of aflatoxins on child health, exacerbated by climate change.
The Ministry of Education is launching a new real-time digital system within the next month to tackle persistent textbook shortages affecting Kenya's Competency-Based Education (CBE) curriculum. The government is also implementing a policy shift to increase student enrollment in the country's top-performing national and extra-county schools. A report by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics reveals a surge in demand for specific health science courses at the Kenya Medical Training College, with enrollment figures highlighting most preferred diploma and certificate programs. Meanwhile, KMTC issued a stern warning about a fraudulent letter circulating on social media falsely claiming to offer assistance with admission letter replacements, course changes, transfers, and deferrals.
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) shut down a chemical company in Mlolongo for allegedly discharging untreated waste into the Nairobi River, leading to nearly 1,000 workers facing layoffs. The raid was led by NEMA Director General Mamo Mamo and Environment Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa, resulting in arrests. Separately, Koko Networks employees may receive limited financial relief amidst the company's collapse, which has left creditors facing substantial losses. Meanwhile, the National Treasury has halted all funding for rent and renovations of leased government offices, including the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary, as part of cost-cutting measures in the 2026/2027 Budget Summary.
A Kenya Defence Forces soldier, identified as Elizabeth Wanjiru, aged 44, was found dead in her locked home in Juja under mysterious circumstances. Police and the KDF have launched a joint investigation into her death. Detectives in Trans Nzoia County have separately arrested two suspects, Dickson Wamocho and Frank Kuyal, in relation to organised crime, following an intelligence-led operation. The National Police Service has also intensified its crackdown on illicit drugs and toxic brews across Kenya, adopting a zero-tolerance approach to combat substance abuse.
President William Ruto addressed the Tanzania Parliament in Dodoma, highlighting a significant oil refinery project set for Tanga region. During the same State visit, President Samia Suluhu Hassan publicly distanced herself from Ruto's assertions about the oil refinery, which she reportedly questioned as nonexistent. This diplomatic embarrassment unfolded as Ruto presented information about an oil refinery that Tanzanian officials indicated was imaginary. At the same time, the two presidents were collaborating to boost trade and investment within the East African region. However, Suluhu's crackdown call on Gen Z activists and rights defenders has placed Kenyan President Ruto under scrutiny due to his silence on the matter.
President William Ruto has defended his announcement of a proposed oil refinery in Tanga, Tanzania, after President Samia Suluhu publicly stated she had not been consulted. Speaking to the Tanzanian Parliament during a historic address in Dodoma, Ruto emphasized East African Community (EAC) integration and regional benefits. Tanzanian MPs openly endorsed President Ruto, praising him and expressing hopes for his re-election in 2027. Kenya and Tanzania signed eight agreements to deepen bilateral ties and boost regional integration. The Voi-Mwatate-Taveta railway line, dormant for over two decades, is set to be fully operational by April 2027, with Ruto identifying unemployment and poverty as the primary adversaries for both nations.
A new report indicates that media freedom in Kenya is at its lowest point in over two decades, raising significant concerns about the safety of journalists and the overall deteriorating environment for independent media. Journalists' safety and declining public trust in Kenyan media were highlighted during World Press Freedom Day commemorations, amidst rising threats to press freedom. A U.S. envoy urged Kenyan media to uphold strong ethical standards and transparency to safeguard public trust, especially in the age of AI-generated content. A Media Council of Kenya report indicated that Standard Group PLC's media platforms remain a trusted source of news for Kenyans.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leadership has called for a truce at a Mombasa retreat, resolving to end internal conflicts and restore party unity. The retreat entered its second day focusing on strategizing for the 2027 General Election. ODM warned against anyone making statements contradicting party leadership. Siaya Governor James Orengo defended his role in securing ODM's claim for unpaid public funding, as the party demands Sh12 billion from the State. ODM leader Oburu Oginga called for an end to internal party disputes, warning that ongoing conflicts risk weakening the party ahead of next year's General Election.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced plans for the construction of a 129 km section of the Kenya-South Sudan Road Corridor, a Ksh24.39 billion project aimed at boosting regional connectivity and trade. KeNHA reopened the Iten-Kabarnet Road after it was closed for days due to a landslide near Kolol, which had disrupted traffic flow along this crucial transport corridor. The Directorate of Public Private Partnerships defended the slow construction pace of the Rironi-Mau Summit expressway, addressing public concerns about the project's progress. The Kenyan Treasury allocated Ksh 40.25 billion towards railway projects and modernization in the 2026/27 budget.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is intensifying efforts to register young people in marginalized and hard-to-reach areas, particularly in urban informal settlements, to improve the inclusivity of the voter register ahead of the 2027 General Election. IEBC issued a stern warning about numerous fraudulent job advertisements circulating online, impersonating official IEBC recruitment efforts ahead of upcoming by-elections. Commissioner Nderitu defended a proposed ban on photographing marked ballots, emphasizing that ballot secrecy is paramount to electoral integrity.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherarkey has filed a Senate motion seeking to withdraw or reduce retirement benefits for former President Uhuru Kenyatta, citing his continued political involvement and criticism of the current administration. The motion, officially titled the "Public Service Matters" motion, claims Kenyatta has been engaging in political activities that disqualify him from state benefits. The Jubilee Party has reacted strongly to this move, accusing Kenya Kwanza of using Uhuru as a scapegoat for government shortcomings. Former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i has also advised the current government to stop using Kenyatta as a scapegoat. Saboti MP Caleb Amisi has defended Kenyatta against accusations of funding the opposition, asserting he has no connection to the Linda Mwananchi initiative.
President William Ruto has officially sworn in 37 new High Court judges at a ceremony held at State House. At the same event, Ruto urged newly sworn-in judges to prioritize integrity and deliver justice promptly, even in the face of unpopular decisions. Separately, homicide detectives have taken over the investigation into the death of former Nairobi Hospital Board member Doctor Job Obwaka, with several individuals who were in contact with him prior to his passing questioned as part of the ongoing probe.
Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata has announced he will not seek re-election on the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket in 2027, citing "honest differences" with President William Ruto over policy priorities. Meanwhile, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has defended former President Uhuru Kenyatta against threats by some Kenya Kwanza leaders to withdraw his retirement benefits due to his political activities. Separately, Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has introduced a motion in Parliament seeking to significantly reduce or withdraw the retirement benefits of former president Uhuru Kenyatta, alleging his continued involvement in active politics.
Kenyan police are actively hunting for the masterminds behind a significant firearms and ammunition cache seized from a bus along the Thika–Garissa Highway on Sunday. The discovery was made during a routine check. In a separate incident, Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) detectives successfully thwarted an attempt to steal jet fuel from an aircraft at Wilson Airport, arresting four suspects who tried to steal 800 litres of jet fuel. Tension also erupted in Vihiga County where boda boda operators clashed with police along the Busia-Kisumu highway following a crackdown on motorbikes, leading to temporary transport paralysis with operators blocking roads.
Former Chief Justice David Maraga has accused the government of sponsoring and protecting "goons" involved in disruptive activities at opposition rallies. Maraga has also strongly criticized the Kenyan government for failing to effectively maintain national security. A faction of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, known as Linda Mwananchi, has sharply criticized President William Ruto for his planned address to the Tanzanian parliament. The ODM party has also commenced a three-day retreat in Mombasa aimed at addressing deepening internal divisions and charting a strategic direction for the party.
Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata has announced his departure from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, citing lack of convergence on political strategies and alleged pressure to endorse President William Ruto's re-election bid. He stated he will not defend his seat on a UDA ticket in the 2027 General Election, signaling a significant shift in the Mt Kenya region's political landscape. President Ruto has returned to Murang'a to continue his campaign, asserting that his government's performance record will secure him a second term in office. This departure represents a blow to Ruto as key political allies shift their positioning ahead of the 2027 elections.
Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has introduced a motion in the Senate to potentially slash or revoke the retirement benefits of former President Uhuru Kenyatta. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has urged Uhuru to emulate Mwai Kibaki and retire from active politics, adopting the role of an elder statesman. Allies of the Kenya Kwanza administration have intensified criticism of Uhuru, accusing him of undermining the current government and allegedly funding opposition activities. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has defended Uhuru against criticism from government leaders regarding his recent remarks.
Kenya's Government has identified 59 flood-prone areas in Tana River County as rising water levels from the Seven Forks Dam escalate risks. The nationwide death toll from ongoing floods has tragically climbed to 18. Separately, the Machakos County government has announced impending demolitions of houses built on riparian land to combat flooding, following heavy rains that have caused widespread damage and loss of life in the region. These developments highlight the escalating flood crisis affecting multiple counties across Kenya.
President William Ruto has announced a Ksh10 million fund for Kenyan content creators focusing on affordable housing and health, aiming to bolster the nation's creative economy. At the 14th Kalasha Awards ceremony celebrating Kenya's film and television industry, President Ruto pledged significant government support for the creative economy. Additionally, he announced a policy shift pledging 30 percent of government advertising to creative platforms to boost Kenya's creative economy.
Three churches in Kirinyaga County have suffered significant losses after a robbery incident that occurred on the night of Saturday, May 2. Thieves broke into the sanctuaries, stealing property valued at over Ksh1 million and desecrating sacred items. In a separate security incident, authorities intercepted a Nairobi-bound passenger bus carrying a significant cache of ammunition and suspected government stores along the Thika–Garissa Highway. A bus ferrying ammunition from Lamu to Nairobi was also intercepted.
Transport along the Northern Bypass was disrupted as Marurui squatters protested alleged land grabbing by a private developer. The demonstrators blocked the road, vowing to remain on the disputed land. Meanwhile, residents of Kangemi are concerned about a significant crack that has appeared on the Kangemi inbound slip road along Waiyaki Way, raising fears about the road's structural integrity. Additionally, Kenyatta National Hospital confirmed delays in its new digital patient data system, leading to some patients being stranded, though the hospital denied reports of a complete system collapse.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is actively leading opposition against President William Ruto's administration, publicly claiming Ruto lacks the necessary support numbers for a second term bid and accusing his government of poor economic performance. Gachagua has also defended retired President Uhuru Kenyatta against attacks from Kenya Kwanza leaders, asserting Kenyatta's right to participate in national discourse. Meanwhile, President Ruto has acknowledged challenges in securing support from the Mt Kenya region, placing his faith in divine intervention while highlighting development achievements. Kericho Senator Aaron Cheruiyot has criticized Uhuru for continued political involvement, urging him to behave like a statesman.
The Orange Democratic Movement is experiencing significant internal divisions threatening its electoral prospects. A three-day retreat in Mombasa is underway to strategize for the 2027 general election amidst growing internal tensions and fears of encroachment by Ruto's UDA party. Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga faces significant political challenges threatening her leadership just a year after becoming the region's first female governor. Additionally, factions led by Dr. Oburu Oginga and Governor James Orengo are clashing over the party's direction, particularly regarding support for Ruto's re-election bid. Separately, Siaya Governor James Orengo was disrupted and forced to leave a funeral ceremony in Seme following heckling from youths.
Kenya's Labour Day celebrations were marred by widespread discontent as teachers and healthcare workers expressed frustration over unfulfilled promises and delayed reforms. Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli has clarified that the recently announced 12 per cent wage increase applies broadly to all workers, not just those earning the minimum wage, and has outlined its implications for Kenyan workers. Archbishop Anthony Muheria of the Catholic Archdiocese of Nyeri has criticized President William Ruto over unfulfilled promises to the nation, while teachers and healthcare workers have expressed frustration over reforms that are delayed and agreements that remain unfulfilled.
Police have arrested a 45-year-old woman as a person of interest in the death of veteran Nairobi Hospital gynaecologist Dr Job Obwaka, who was 83 years old. The doctor collapsed in Kitengela on Friday evening while running personal errands and was pronounced dead on arrival at Nairobi Hospital. The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) is mourning the death of the veteran obstetrician and gynaecologist who also served as Chairman of the Board of Directors at The Nairobi Hospital. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua praised Dr Obwaka as a courageous defender of institutional integrity following his sudden death, while Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale also mourned his passing.
Heavy rains across Kenya have resulted in at least 10 fatalities nationwide, with the Eastern region bearing the brunt of the impact. A section of the Iten-Kabarnet Road has been blocked by a landslide near Kolol due to heavy rainfall, causing significant disruption to transport. Intense rainfall has also caused severe flooding in several areas, submerging homes in Syokimau, Kiambu, and Nairobi, with swept-away vehicles and submerged businesses reported. The National Police Service reported the casualties and significant infrastructure damage as thousands continue to flee their homes.
The Finance Bill 2026 proposes a new Non-Resident Rental Income Tax targeting foreign landlords earning rent from properties in Kenya. Separately, the same bill aims to move tax filing deadlines earlier for individuals and companies, with the new deadline taking effect starting January 1, 2027 if approved by Parliament. At the same time, the National Treasury is proposing a 50 percent reduction in the fuel levy allocated to the Road Annuity Fund, a move expected to save motorists an estimated Ksh75-80 per tank ahead of an EPRA review.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has urged former President Uhuru Kenyatta to withdraw from active politics and assume the role of a unifying statesman, drawing parallels with former presidents Daniel arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki. In response, former President Uhuru Kenyatta has firmly rejected calls for him to leave active politics and the leadership of the Jubilee Party, asserting his constitutional right to engage in political discourse and party affairs. He has defended his continued involvement in Kenyan politics, vowing to protect the Jubilee Party.
The 61st Labour Day celebrations in Vihiga County, presided over by President William Ruto, were dominated by political campaigning rather than worker welfare discussions. Despite pleas from workers for higher wages, tax relief, and job security, President William Ruto and COTU boss Francis Atwoli seemingly ignored these concerns. Kenya's Labour Day celebrations highlighted a stark contrast between leaders' lavish spending and the everyday struggles of workers facing a high cost of living. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has also announced his intention to remain an active participant in Kenya's political discourse.
President William Ruto announced a significant increase in minimum wages during the 2026 Labour Day celebrations in Vihiga County. The celebrations marked the first time the national event was held outside Nairobi, taking place at Chavakali Boys High School. Workers across Kenya commemorated the 61st Labour Day celebrations with events held nationwide. However, COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli demanded the administration expedite ratification of international labour conventions, citing broken promises. Separately, members of the National Assembly are demanding prosecution of employers who have failed to remit mandatory training levies to NITA.
The Nairobi Expressway temporarily waived toll fees for motorists exiting via the Southern Bypass and Eastern Bypass (Exit A) due to severe flooding on Mombasa Road. Heavy overnight rains caused widespread flooding across Nairobi, rendering key transport routes impassable and disrupting daily life. A tragic head-on collision occurred along the Narok-Bomet highway, resulting in four deaths and several injuries. The Kenya Meteorological Department announced that heavy rains are expected to significantly ease by mid-May, providing respite after weeks of downpours.
Global and regional powers including the African Union, EU, and IGAD have called for an immediate humanitarian truce and a sustained ceasefire in Sudan following talks in Berlin. China will extend its zero-tariff treatment to all African nations it has diplomatic relations with for a two-year period from May 1, 2026 to April 30, 2028. The King of the Bamasaba from Uganda, Umukuka Jude Mike Mudoma, is on a two-day visit to Kenya to strengthen cross-border cultural ties between the Bagishu in Uganda and the Bukusu community in Kenya.
President William Ruto has approved the construction of new railway stations along the Naivasha-Malaba Standard Gauge Railway extension, allocating Ksh 250 million for a station in Luanda, Vihiga County. This came after public outcry. The President also announced an extension of the Mau Summit-Malaba expressway, with tenders and construction set to begin before the end of the year, extending the highway to 300KM.
The Teachers Service Commission has ordered an immediate nationwide redistribution of teachers to address significant staffing imbalances across schools in Kenya. The TSC also announced the inclusion of In-Vitro Fertilisation treatment under the Social Health Authority Mwalimu Comprehensive Cover for teachers. Meanwhile, Kenyan teachers represented by KUPPET are threatening to escalate nationwide strikes starting Monday, May 4 if their demands are not met by President Ruto.
COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli used the 2026 Labour Day celebrations at Friends School Chavakali to lead 'tutam' chants, asserting Kenya's strength and progress. The 61st Labour Day celebrations in Vihiga County were dominated by political endorsements for President William Ruto's re-election bid, shifting focus from workers' rights to early succession politics. Meanwhile, COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli is urging the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to stop premature political rallies, warning that ongoing political escalations could lead to unrest that disproportionately harms workers. Separately, President William Ruto has conducted 38 trips to Nyanza region since July 2024, significantly altering the political landscape and fostering cooperation with ODM leaders, particularly in Homa Bay.
The Mwingi-Garissa road corridor has become the epicenter of deadly violence that has claimed multiple lives and disrupted transportation. Leaders from the North Eastern region have condemned the attacks, with the NLP demanding declaration of a national emergency over escalating incidents that threaten peaceful coexistence. Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua is demanding urgent government action following a series of bandit attacks that claimed at least eight lives. MP Adan Keynan has called for the immediate arrest of perpetrators behind the surge in violent incidents along the route. Meanwhile, protests have erupted in Mwingi over insecurity along the Tana River border, with residents disrupting transportation services. The Nairobi-Garissa highway has been closed for a second consecutive day due to demonstrations sparked by recent killings in Kitui, significantly disrupting travel and commerce.
The Judicial Service Commission has nominated Court of Appeal Judge Mohamed Abdulahi Warsame for appointment to the Supreme Court, filling the vacancy left by the late Justice Mohammed Kadhar Ibrahim. Justice Warsame brings 32 years of experience in the legal profession, including his tenure at the Court of Appeal since 2012. The JSC concluded interviews for the vacant Supreme Court judge position and will announce a nominee within seven days, with the selected candidate to be forwarded to President William Ruto for appointment. This nomination follows the commission's commitment to begin publishing individual performance data for judges and judicial officers starting July 1, 2026, an initiative aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability within the Judiciary.
Sacred Heart Girls' Secondary School in Mirithu, Limuru, has been indefinitely closed after a devastating dormitory fire that destroyed the facility. Parents have expressed concerns over potential additional costs and demanded a thorough investigation. This incident follows a separate fire at Dr Aggrey High School in Taita Taveta County, where students and teachers scrambled for safety during the afternoon of April 30. Additionally, a night fire razed a girls dormitory at Mirithu Girls High School while students were in evening classes, with preliminary reports suggesting an electrical fault as the cause. These incidents have raised serious questions about safety standards in educational institutions.
KenGen is indicating potentially lower electricity prices due to a surge in hydroelectric power generation across the country. This increase in hydroelectric output is attributed to significantly improved water levels in key dams, which could provide relief to consumers facing high energy costs. The development comes as the government continues to address various infrastructure and energy challenges in Kenya's power sector.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi met with over 30 Members of Parliament from the Western region on Wednesday to strategize for upcoming elections. The meeting involved discussions about unity among Western political leaders. Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya also attended the gathering. This follows earlier indications that Luhya political unity efforts are underway, with leaders seeking to coordinate their approach amid changing political dynamics.
Former nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba was arrested on Wednesday after attempting to access Parliament to reclaim her seat. Her vehicle reportedly blocked the main entrance, leading to a confrontation with security personnel. Orwoba cited a court ruling as the basis for her claim to the seat. She was later freed on bail, hours after the initial arrest. The incident occurred at the Parliament gate and drew attention to the ongoing political dispute over her seating arrangement.
The United States has formally invited Kenya to join a multibillion-dollar critical minerals partnership, coinciding with Kenya's tender for the valuable Mrima Hill rare earth deposit. President William Ruto has led the opening of an investment conference focused on the mining sector in Kenya, which featured panel discussions on the latest developments and opportunities within Kenya's mining sector. The potential of Kenya's mining sector was highlighted in discussions identifying key factors needed for its unlocking. Kenya's Principal Secretary for Cooperatives, Patrick Kilemi, discussed initiatives aimed at revitalizing the nation's struggling coffee sector, while President Ruto announced that Kenya has climbed to become the 6th largest economy in Africa, up from 8th largest in 2022.
At least three people are feared dead after being swept away by floodwaters following heavy rains in Nairobi on Monday and Tuesday night. The downpour caused widespread flooding, particularly around the Ruai Bypass, paralyzing transport and submerging roads. The Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) have been deployed to Nairobi for search-and-rescue operations following extensive flooding that submerged around 100 homes in Kasarani. The National Police Service (NPS) has issued warnings about potential widespread flooding in over 10 Nairobi estates due to persistent heavy rainfall. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Interior and National Administration has issued an overflow alert for the Seven Forks dams due to heavy rainfall upstream, warning residents along the Lower Tana River to move to higher ground. At least 700 households in Tana River County are facing potential displacement due to rising river levels. The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has also closed a section of the Iten-Kabarnet Road due to a landslide caused by heavy rainfall.
Kenyans rushed to Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) centers across Nairobi as the 30-day Enhanced Continuous Voter Registration exercise concluded on April 28. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) successfully concluded its continuous voter registration exercise, registering over 1.8 million new voters. This high turnout comes as the country prepares for future electoral processes, with increased civic engagement observed during the registration period.
Public universities in Kenya are facing a significant funding crisis, with the government slashing allocations by up to Ksh 13 billion under a new model. Leading institutions like JKUAT, UoN, and Egerton have seen drastic reductions in capitation over the past three years. Meanwhile, the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) is escalating pressure on the government, threatening industrial action over the unresolved status of 44,000 Junior Secondary School (JSS) teachers. The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has set a deadline of May 29 for schools to submit results for Grade 4 and 5 School-Based Assessments (SBA), while also urging parents and guardians to verify registration details for candidates sitting the 2026 KCSE, KPSEA, and KJSEA examinations before the April 30 deadline.
President William Ruto has announced that construction of a new airport to replace Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) will commence in June, with a budget of Ksh180 billion. The project will be funded by the National Infrastructure Fund and private sector investment. The High Court has upheld a directive banning graffiti, artistic designs, and tinted windows on public service vehicles (PSVs), paving the way for a nationwide crackdown by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA). Several bus companies have suspended services along the Nairobi-Garissa Highway due to escalating insecurity, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded after a bus was attacked with stones, shattering its windscreen.
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) conducted a raid on the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) headquarters at Kandanda House. The raid sought documents relevant to an ongoing probe, with authorities recovering key finance documents. Meanwhile, the Chief Justice of Kenya, William Sergon, faces a panel from the Judicial Service Commission regarding the backlog of cases in Kericho. Separately, the High Court in Nakuru issued a stay of proceedings preventing a Kenya Defence Forces officer from appearing in court to face murder charges, as the court awaits a mental assessment of the accused.
President William Ruto has clarified that his remarks about Nigerian English were taken out of context after a private conversation was recorded and shared online, causing diplomatic tensions. Nigeria's Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Henry Dele Alake, humorously responded during a conference in Nairobi, stating Nigerians have "mandated" him to confirm they also speak "good English." Meanwhile, Court of Appeal Judge Katwa Kigen assured the Judicial Service Commission of his impartiality during an interview for a Supreme Court judge position, addressing concerns about his past representation of President Ruto at the International Criminal Court. Former IPOA chairperson Anne Makori also faced questioning from the JSC for failing to submit her net worth declaration during her interview for a Supreme Court judge position.
Kenya has officially concluded its Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti, marking the withdrawal of its final police contingent after an 18-month deployment aimed at restoring stability. Kenyan officials including CS Kipchumba Murkomen and IG Douglas Kanja visited Haiti to commend police officers as the mission concludes its drawdown phase. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta is attending the Tana Forum on Security in Africa in Accra, Ghana, a high-level forum convening leaders and experts to discuss African-led solutions to peace and security challenges on the continent.
Heavy overnight rains have caused significant flooding in several areas of Nairobi, disrupting transportation and inundating residential estates on Monday night and into Tuesday morning. The Kenya Meteorological Service Authority has issued a warning for persistent heavy rains and potential floods and landslides across several counties until May 1. The Energy Petroleum and Regulatory Authority has announced the initiation of a Petroleum Cost Recovery Audit for oil production companies in Turkana, set to commence in December, as Turkana oil production begins.
Kenyan Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has called for an intensified, coordinated continental response to the escalating crisis of non-communicable diseases, injuries, and mental health conditions across Africa. Kenya is grappling with a significant public health crisis, recording over 19,000 snakebite cases annually, resulting in more than 1,000 deaths. Meanwhile, civil servants and teachers in Kenya are expressing deep frustration with the new Social Health Authority which replaced the National Health Insurance Fund, reportedly failing to deliver promised improvements and leading to widespread dissatisfaction.
The Kenya Airports Authority has launched a multi-billion tender program for significant upgrades across various Kenyan airports and airstrips, including JKIA and Moi International Airport. The Kenyan government is also seeking to acquire land in Gigiri, Nairobi to construct a new multi-storey office block that will house United Nations agencies. Separately, Kenya Railways has abruptly cancelled an international tender for 24 air compressors intended for its Diesel Multiple Unit trains, part of the World Bank-funded Ksh65 billion Kenya Urban Mobility Improvement Project, ahead of a May deadline.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has shifted his legal strategy in his impeachment battle, dropping a bid for reinstatement and instead pursuing a claim for compensation and benefits. The legal battle challenging his removal has officially begun at the Milimani High Court, with Gachagua arguing his removal was unconstitutional. Meanwhile, speculation continues about whether Gachagua will be eligible to contest for the presidency in 2027, arising from ongoing discussions and potential legal interpretations surrounding his qualifications and political future. These developments represent a significant evolution in Gachagua's approach to reclaiming political power after his removal from office.
