Comprehensive daily news summaries and story collections from Kenya
President Museveni has revealed details about Kenya's government-to-government fuel import deal, exposing it as a paradise for brokers. The Sunday Standard newspaper's headline suggested a significant scandal involving these G-to-G dealings. In related developments, MP Nyoro questioned Kenya's G-to-G fuel import deal, citing concerns raised by Uganda regarding the arrangement. These stories reveal growing controversy and scrutiny over the fuel import agreement between the two countries.
Human rights defenders in Nairobi are planning a protest to demand the release of Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye, who remains in detention. Separately, the Open Society Foundations raised concerns about Kenya's adherence to the rule of law after authorities denied entry to its Managing Director for Africa, Brian Kagoro. Additionally, an investigation into the alleged abduction of Standard Group journalist Alex Kiprotich is facing scrutiny due to conflicting CCTV footage that raises questions about the timeline and circumstances surrounding the incident.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has been officially endorsed as the Mt Kenya region’s spokesman by over 50,000 elders who gathered at Kirigiti Stadium in Kiambu County on September 19, 2026. The endorsement was marked by a ceremonial handover of power instruments to him by elders. Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku officially relinquished the symbolic "axe" representing division within the Mt Kenya Region, embracing a new mandate focused on reconciliation and national unity. Meanwhile, Rigathi Gachagua's plan to vet President William Ruto's loyalists after a significant victory in the Ol Kalou Constituency by-election appears to have collapsed, marking a shift in the region's political dynamics.
A preliminary investigation into the August 19 helicopter crash in Samburu County has revealed the aircraft struck a rock near Mount Ololokwe's summit, leading to the deaths of all seven people on board. The investigation confirmed the aircraft was flying at low level before the crash. This was a tragic accident that claimed the lives of all occupants when the helicopter struck a rock formation near the summit.
The Trump administration has implemented a new rule tightening U.S. green card eligibility by broadening the scope of public benefits considered in immigration officer assessments, with Kenyans among foreigners affected. The United States has also warned foreign students, including those from Kenya, that engaging in political activities on behalf of foreign governments or organizations without proper disclosure could lead to deportation. Additionally, the U.S. is proposing to introduce advanced extraction and refining technologies to Kenya's critical minerals sector, aiming to boost local value addition rather than direct U.S. involvement in mining operations.
President William Ruto is strategically investing in a widespread network of development projects across Kenya, aiming to boost his 2027 re-election prospects. His approach focuses on projects impacting daily economic activities rather than solely relying on mega-projects. At the same time, Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has reportedly ignored President William Ruto's challenges, choosing not to respond to accusations of sponsoring the opposition. Uhuru opted for a light-hearted response to Ruto's accusations rather than engaging in a direct political duel. Additionally, approximately 50,000 elders from the Mt Kenya region gathered in Kiambu Town on Saturday, September 19, in a significant effort to mend political divisions ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kenya has successfully secured the hosting rights for the 2029 World Athletics Championships, a significant achievement celebrated by former officials. Meanwhile, Kenyan runner Agnes Ngetich is setting her sights on victory at the upcoming Copenhagen Half Marathon following a dominant performance in the cross country season. Prague half marathon champion Caroline Gitonga also seeks a podium finish in Copenhagen. At the same time, the President of World Athletics, Sebastian Coe, has pledged to implement changes aimed at making athletics more engaging for spectators. Additionally, the Kenya Lawn Bowling Team has received new kits ahead of their pursuit of continental glory.
President William Ruto has labelled his predecessor, Uhuru Kenyatta a 'rebel' amidst an escalating political clash during a tour of the Nyanza region. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta is facing renewed criticism from Kenya Kwanza government officials who accuse him of attempting to destabilize the current administration. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki held a significant meeting with approximately 50,000 elders from the Mt Kenya region. At the same time, President William Ruto has issued a stern warning to politicians, urging them to refrain from weaponizing the police for personal political rivalries.
The Kenyan Government is intensifying preparedness for the October-November-December 2026 rainy season, anticipating potential El Niño conditions with 18 counties on high alert due to expected heavy rains and flooding risks. Residents of Garissa are being urged to take advantage of the ongoing El Niño season by planting trees to protect and conserve the environment. In Malindi, residents living in flood-prone areas have been urged to relocate to safer grounds in anticipation of the El Niño rains.
Ida Odinga has unveiled a national steering committee, led by Professor Adams Oloo, to coordinate the commemoration of her late husband Raila Odinga's first anniversary. The committee will organize a week-long series of national events, including the launch of a democracy centre and a leadership academy in his honour. Ida emphasized that the celebrations belong to all Kenyans. Organizers have issued a stern warning that "goons" will not be permitted at the national events. Raila Odinga passed away on October 15, 2025.
A petrol tanker exploded along the Eldoret-Webuye road near Paul Boit High School on Thursday night, resulting in a mass casualty incident with at least two people confirmed dead and more than ten others seriously injured. The explosion occurred near Paul Boit Secondary School in Turbo constituency, Uasin Gishu county. Emergency services were on-site responding to the situation. In a separate incident, a matatu driver has been charged with causing the deaths of three people in a crash on Enterprise Road in Nairobi on June 3, 2026, accused of dangerous driving in a style known as 'Manyoka'.
The Kenyan government is bolstering its security apparatus with the graduation of new General Service Unit officers to enhance preparedness for the upcoming 2027 General Election. President William Ruto officially opened a new GSU Healthcare Centre in Embakasi, Nairobi, aiming to enhance healthcare access for GSU officers and their families. The President also announced that over 138,000 police and prison officers, along with their dependants, now have expanded health coverage through the Usalama Cover initiative under the Social Health Authority.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, a prominent figure in the Linda Mwananchi movement, has met with the US Chargé d'Affaires Susan Burns in Nairobi as his profile grows ahead of the 2027 General Election. Former Chief Justice and 2027 presidential hopeful David Maraga is separately in Washington DC engaging with US lawmakers, civil society, and think tanks to advance his agenda for electoral reforms. Meanwhile, Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua has arrived in Kansas City, Missouri, continuing his extended tour of the United States to engage with Kenyans living abroad.
President William Ruto has accused retired President Uhuru Kenyatta of betraying their political agreement and actively working to undermine his administration. During his final day of a tour in Homa Bay County, Ruto stated that he had supported Kenyatta throughout their partnership and expected reciprocal support. Ruto urged his predecessor to withdraw from active political mobilisation, accusing him of now funding opposition activities against his administration.
A senior Kenyan police officer, reportedly having recently served in Haiti, was among five people killed in a suspected bandit attack in Gotu, Isiolo County. The attack also claimed the lives of two anti-stock theft officers. Following the incident, protests erupted in Isiolo town, leading to the blockage of the Isiolo-Moyale Highway. Meanwhile, Gideon Moi called for urgent security action, while Archbishop Jackson Ole Sapit condemned both the attack and rising political goonism. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen revealed that 1,189 individuals have been sentenced for offenses related to political violence and goonism since 2022.
The Kenyan government is advocating for enhanced protections for its citizens working abroad due to prevalent issues such as fraudulent recruitment, human trafficking, and unfair labor practices. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi is urging Kenyans seeking overseas employment to verify all job offers through official government channels to prevent exploitation and trafficking. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has issued an arrest warrant for Elizaphan Michira, accused of running a fake jobs scam targeting Kenyans seeking employment in Canada.
The High Court has granted political parties and accredited election observers the right to access and examine electoral records and data held by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission. Additionally, the High Court has declared parts of Kenya's Public-Private Partnerships Act unconstitutional, ruling that Parliament must have oversight over PPP projects creating financial obligations for the national government, with the declaration suspended for six months. Separately, a High Court in Vihiga revoked a man's grant to administer his late father's estate for failing to include his daughters in succession proceedings, finding the omission to be fraudulent concealment.
Organizers of the first anniversary commemorations for the late Raila Odinga have issued a stern warning against disruptive elements, stating that goons will not be permitted at the national events. The commemorations will feature national events, including the launch of a democracy centre and a leadership academy in his honour. Ida Odinga has stated that the celebrations belong to all Kenyans, with the family and Orange Democratic Movement organizing a series of events throughout October.
Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot has asserted that Deputy President Kithure Kindiki will remain President William Ruto's running mate for the 2027 General Election and is poised to succeed him in 2032. Kindiki has dismissed detractors, vowing to prioritize development projects across Kenya and accusing some opposition leaders in Meru of attempting to distract him from his development agenda. Separately, Kindiki has pledged that Kenya will conduct a free, fair, and verifiable 2027 General Election. President Ruto has warned the opposition against being used by political sponsors to settle scores, vowing a wider victory in the 2027 General Election.
President William Ruto has drawn widespread criticism for attacking former President Uhuru Kenyatta, whom he labeled a "rebel leader." These attacks have reportedly caused significant distress to Kenyatta. Ruto publicly accused his predecessor of undermining his administration and urged him to withdraw from active political mobilisation, stating he had supported Kenyatta throughout their political partnership and expected reciprocal support. A recent High Court ruling has effectively barred former President Uhuru Kenyatta from holding a party office, aligning with efforts to sideline him from active politics. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has faced significant political backlash following remarks perceived as critical of Kenyatta, with allies strongly defending the former President.
President William Ruto has intensified his attacks on retired President Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing him of sponsoring opposition leaders and hindering his government's development agenda during tours of Migori and Siaya counties. Ruto labelled Kenyatta a 'rebel leader' for refusing to act as a statesman and urged Siaya Governor James Orengo to stop being used to oppose government programs, claiming he was a puppet of Uhuru. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua hit back at Ruto, asserting that Kenyatta is not Ruto's opponent in the 2027 election. Ruto predicted a 2027 landslide victory for the Broad-Based Government while accusing Uhuru of using the Siaya governor to undermine government projects.
Former Migori Governor Okoth Obado is facing sentencing at the Milimini High Court in the Sharon Otieno murder case, nearly eight years after the Rongo University student's death. The sentencing has been adjourned to November 27 after the victim's family requested a Dholuo interpreter for their court presentation. Sharon's mother has pleaded with the court to spare Obado a death or life sentence, citing forgiveness and a desire for him to support Sharon's children. The court issued new directives as the sentencing proceedings continue with delays.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced an extended voter registration drive in Ol-Kalou Constituency, running from September 16th until October 20th, in preparation for the 2027 General Election. The commission is undergoing a strategic review of its communication and voter education frameworks to prepare for the upcoming election. An opposition coalition is calling for the removal of the national tallying centre ahead of the 2027 General Election, asserting its unconstitutionality. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has pledged that Kenya's 2027 General Election will be free, fair, secure, peaceful, and credible.
Kenya has secured a multi-billion-shilling grant from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) to fund preparations for the Mau Summit-Malaba Highway, a crucial section of the Northern Corridor. Kenya is actively seeking new investors for the expansion of the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway, shifting its focus to South Korean financiers after U.S. firm Everstrong Capital exited its planned expressway project. Kenya has presented 13 priority infrastructure projects to global investors at the Global Infrastructure Cooperation Conference (GICC) 2026 in Seoul, South Korea, seeking long-term financing. The Australia East Africa Chamber of Commerce has been launched in Nairobi to bolster trade, investment, and partnerships between Australia and the East African region.
The Kenyan Senate has summoned Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua, and Attorney-General Dorcas Oduor to appear on September 29 over the recruitment of Kenyans into the Russian military. Key Kenyan officials are facing scrutiny for their absence from Senate proceedings concerning the alleged recruitment of Kenyan nationals into the Russian Army and the detention of Kenyans in Ukrainian prisons. A Kenyan national is serving a three-year jail term abroad after employing a protest tactic used during Kenya's 2024 Gen Z demonstrations to target a member of a powerful foreign family.
President William Ruto has warned the opposition against being used by "political sponsors" to settle scores, vowing a wider victory in the 2027 General Election. At the same time, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has assured that Kenya's 2027 General Election will be free, fair, and verifiable, amid controversy surrounding remarks made by UDA Secretary-General Hassan Omar. Meanwhile, a coalition led by former Chief Justice David Maraga is demanding five electoral reforms and threatens protests if they are not implemented before the 2027 General Election. Additionally, Kalonzo Musyoka, Wiper Patriotic Front leader, faces his most significant political challenge as he vies for the united opposition's presidential flag bearer position ahead of the 2027 General Election.
Kenyan diplomat Martin Kimani has been appointed UN Assistant Secretary-General for Africa by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, marking a significant international role for Kenya. The appointment was announced on Monday, September 14, representing a prominent diplomatic achievement for the country. Ambassador Kimani's role will focus on fostering peace across the African continent. At the same time, Kenya is pursuing strategic infrastructure financing, with the National Treasury in talks with the China Development Bank for additional funding to boost infrastructure projects across the country. Kenya has also presented 13 priority infrastructure projects to global investors at the Global Infrastructure Cooperation Conference 2026 in Seoul, South Korea, seeking long-term financing.
The Ministry of Health has identified 21 counties in Kenya as being at high risk of disease outbreaks due to anticipated above-normal rainfall from October to December, linked to El Niño weather patterns. The Kenya Meteorological Service Authority forecasts continued rainfall in Coastal, Rift Valley, and Western regions, attributed to the Madden-Julian Oscillation tropical weather system currently in phases one and two. In response, Kenya is set to host the Kenya Public Health International Conference, KEPHIC 2026, from October 27 to 29 in Nairobi, focusing on disease prevention, pandemic preparedness, and climate-related health risks. The Kiambu County Government is also defending its piglet distribution program against accusations that it contributed to an African Swine Fever outbreak that has killed 1,470 pigs on over 20 farms since mid-May.
The High Court in Nairobi has ruled that retired presidents are barred from holding leadership positions in political parties for longer than six months after leaving the presidency. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has accepted this High Court ruling, paving the way for a leadership handover in the Jubilee Party. This court decision represents a major blow to Uhuru ahead of the 2027 elections, reshaping political party structures. In related political developments, President William Ruto has stated that Kenyans will not compromise the nation's future in the 2027 general election by choosing leaders without a clear vision or proven track record.
Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote has launched Africa's largest share sale with the initial public offering of his oil refinery, aiming to raise up to $2.1 billion from the general public. This marks the continent's biggest share sale to date. Separately, Kenyan President William Ruto announced that the government is in talks with Dangote to construct a crude oil pipeline from Lamu to Turkana, part of Dangote's planned multi-trillion shilling refinery in Lamu. This pipeline project represents a significant infrastructure development connecting Kenya's oil resources.
President William Ruto has defended the Housing Levy, asserting that the policy was included in the manifestos of both Azimio la Umoja and Kenya Kwanza coalitions during the election period. The President also announced that the Kenyan Government is actively collaborating with the family of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga to organize the anniversary of his passing. These developments highlight Ruto's efforts to address policy criticisms while honoring political legacy. Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has urged Kenyan MPs attending the 69th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Cape Town, South Africa, to champion Kenya's interests and share its parliamentary experiences.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has officially set Kenya on the path to the August 10, 2027 General Election by gazetting the election notice, triggering constitutional and statutory deadlines that will dictate the electoral timeline. With the 2027 General Election just 11 months away, controversial statements from politicians aligned with President William Ruto's administration are sparking fears about election rigging, including allegations of harvesting fingerprints of the dead and filling ballot boxes with votes. The mounting concerns over electoral integrity have prompted the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) to begin preparations for peace initiatives leading up to the 2027 general election, meeting with political parties and police in Nairobi to discuss strategies for ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
Kenya's Deputy Inspector General of Police Douglas Masengeli has issued a stern warning against revenge, hatred, and violence as the nation approaches the 2027 General Election, urging Kenyans to reject retaliatory actions and focus on national unity. The National Cohesion and Integration Commission is urging stakeholders to implement early measures to prevent election-related conflicts. President William Ruto has warned Kenyan political leaders against promoting chaos and violence, stating the nation has no space for leaders seeking to destabilize it, while urging opposition leaders to present a clear agenda for the 2027 General Election.
Five people have been confirmed dead following a head-on collision between an Easy Coach bus and a private car on the Gilgil-Nakuru highway on Sunday night, September 13. The accident occurred at Kikopey on the Nakuru-Naivasha highway when a saloon car collided with a passenger bus, resulting in the deaths of all five occupants of the private car. Nairobi's Central Business District experienced relative calm on Sunday despite heavy police presence and earlier planned restrictions for Linda Mwananchi rallies.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua claims the opposition has solidified its control over Nairobi's political landscape, positioning it as a key battleground for the 2027 General Election. The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties has set critical deadlines for political parties to submit nomination rules and election-related documents. Separately, Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu has urged residents to maintain peace and avoid political violence as election campaigns intensify, emphasizing that political disagreements should not escalate into conflict, property destruction, injuries, or loss of life.
Kenya is stepping up Ebola surveillance at its entry points due to heightened global concerns, while simultaneously managing a widespread Mpox outbreak that has now reached 40 counties. The government is intensifying surveillance at border points, including informal crossings and truck-driver stopovers, to detect and contain infectious diseases. A joint operation led by USAID's Office of Inspector General has also busted stolen and expired medical supplies in Kenya, resulting in two arrests and the shutdown of at least four pharmacies.
President William Ruto has announced that construction of the 612-kilometre Lake Victoria Ring Road will commence in November 2026, marking a significant infrastructure development for the region. During his Nyanza tour, Ruto unveiled a Ksh23 billion road investment for Kisumu. Meanwhile, four years into his presidency, his administration has a mixed record on campaign promises, with some delivered, others stalled, and some yet to be fulfilled across key sectors.
President William Ruto initiated a four-day tour of the Nyanza region, a traditional opposition stronghold, pledging a development package of Sh600 to Sh700 billion to secure political support ahead of the 2027 General Election. The tour aimed to strengthen ties between the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), with Ruto using the visit to criticize the opposition's politics. At the same time, the President stated his administration has fulfilled the majority of its promises exactly four years since assuming office, countering claims of economic mismanagement and corruption. However, Ruto faces political challenges in the region, with local leaders demanding tangible development projects as a condition for their support in the upcoming 2027 elections. The President also accused the Opposition of acting as puppets for their sponsors, suggesting this dependence hinders their independent thinking.
Chaos erupted during a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) meeting in Nembure, Embu County, leaving two people feared dead and several others injured, with over 10 vehicles torched amidst widespread violence. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested two suspects as investigations continue into the violent disruption of the political meeting attended by Deputy President Kithure Kindiki. Police in Embu County launched a formal probe following the incident, with Eastern police boss Stephen Chebet confirming investigations are underway. The National Police Service has vowed to take stern action against those responsible for the violent clashes. Meanwhile, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has linked the violence to political maneuvering for the 2027 Mt Kenya succession, as opposition leaders condemned the alleged targeting of MP John Gitonga Mukunji, who claims armed police attempted to arrest him at his home following the Embu chaos.
President William Ruto paid tribute to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in Kisumu, vowing to preserve and advance his political and development legacy. At the same event in Kisumu, Suba North Member of Parliament Millie Odhiambo was heckled by a hostile crowd during the president's attendance. Separately, President Ruto stated that no foreign national in Kenya should be harmed, reinforcing his directive from the previous week and emphasizing that all individuals must be treated equally under the law. The president also declared Kenya open for foreign business and investment, urging citizens against taking matters into their own hands.
Kenya's Ministry of Health has issued a warning about an increased risk of waterborne diseases like cholera and typhoid due to the anticipated El Niño rains, urging enhanced public and county measures against water contamination and poor sanitation. The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO), has enhanced emergency preparedness for the upcoming October-December rains, focusing on swift disaster response. Additionally, water bills are set to increase in five Kenyan counties after the Water Services Regulatory Board (WASREB) approved new tariffs, effective in the upcoming financial years, to support utility operations and service delivery.
The Registrar of Companies has dissolved 176 firms operating in Kenya, rendering hundreds jobless, with an additional 155 companies slated for dissolution in the coming months. This comes as Kenya introduces Ozempic and Wegovy, new prescription medicines containing semaglutide, to combat the rising burden of type 2 diabetes and obesity, officially launched in Nairobi by pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk. Meanwhile, Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) has clarified the process for first-year students wishing to change their university courses.
The National Land Commission (NLC) has issued a new notice to acquire over 300 land parcels for the Naivasha-Kisumu-Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project, representing a compulsory acquisition for the planned Ksh700 billion infrastructure development. A recent court ruling has underscored crucial legal safeguards available to Kenyans against unauthorised land transfers, involving a family discovering property belonging to a deceased relative had been fraudulently registered in another person's name years after his death. Environmentalists are urging the Kenyan government to verify the survival rates of trees planted under restoration programs, as planting numbers alone may not reflect true success.
President William Ruto concluded a four-day tour of Bomet and Kericho counties, launching multi-billion shilling projects and addressing the future of devolved health services. Speaking in Kisumu, Ruto emphasized a partnership in the broad-based government and pledged to preserve the national legacy of the late Raila Odinga. The President also vowed to advance the development legacy of the late opposition leader Raila, stating he would work with ODM leaders and supporters. An uneasy truce between President Ruto's UDA and Oburu Oginga's ODM is facing its first major test over plans for political zoning ahead of the 2027 elections.
Chaos erupted at a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) meeting in Embu County on Saturday, September 12, leading to the evacuation of Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and leaving several people feared dead. Former Attorney General Justin Muturi has alleged that an attack on opposition leaders in Garissa on Saturday, September 12, was an "attempted assassination" targeting political figures. Meanwhile, detectives have arrested a primary school headteacher in the Rift Valley in connection with the fatal shooting of a teacher and civil servant in Kerio Valley, as violence appears to have escalated across multiple regions.
The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) has issued a stern warning to Kenyans regarding 15 investment platforms operating unlawfully and engaging in fraudulent activities. These entities are accused of soliciting funds without the necessary licenses or approvals. At the same time, six Iranian nationals will face defence in a Shanzu court over allegations of trafficking over Sh8.2 billion worth of methamphetamine, one of the largest drug trafficking cases in the country's recent history. Meanwhile, Nairobi police have intensified operations against armed robbery following a shootout in Dandora that resulted in the death of one suspected robber and the recovery of a pistol, with authorities appealing for information on two suspects who evaded capture.
The Kenyan government has issued a heightened alert for African Swine Fever, a highly contagious disease affecting pigs, following an outbreak in seven counties. Separately, Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Nassir has banned the on-site mixing of ballast, sand, and cement at construction sites, effective September 14, to combat worsening flood conditions that could spread waterborne diseases. Likoni MP Mishi Mboko is also demanding an explanation from the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) and Kenya Ferry Services following an incident where the MV Likoni experienced landing difficulties amid heavy rains and high tides at the Likoni Channel on Friday.
The Kenya Meteorological Service Authority (KMSA) has forecast moderate to heavy rains across several Kenyan counties, including Nairobi, from Sunday, September 13 to Thursday, September 17, 2026. The Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK) has issued a separate warning about potential risks to properties due to the anticipated El Niño rains, urging owners and managers to take preventative measures. Additionally, a multiple-vehicle crash involving a truck and two passenger vehicles occurred on the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway on Saturday morning, causing significant traffic buildup with several casualties feared, as heavy rains likely contributed to the hazardous road conditions.
Four years after President William Ruto promised universal healthcare, the new Social Health Authority (SHA) has registered over 32.3 million Kenyans, but faces challenges with active payments, fraud allegations, and hospital arrears mounting to Ksh 11 billion. Separately, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is transitioning to a new system for electronic cargo tracking seals, moving from government-owned seals to a Multi-Vendor, User-Owned Seals model to improve monitoring of goods entering Kenya. Kenya has also made significant progress in its bid to host the Recording Academy Africa headquarters following high-level talks in Nairobi between the organization's officials and President William Ruto, potentially bringing major economic benefits to the country.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused President William Ruto of sending Kenyan police officers to Haiti with an ulterior motive, claiming they were benchmarking how to work with goons. Gachagua alleges that Ruto is monopolizing government resources and initiatives, controlling funds from key sectors including SHA and affordable housing and county government operations. Supporters of Democracy for the Citizens Party leader in the United States are urging Gachagua to adopt a broader national vision beyond the Mt Kenya region as they table demands on his 2027 political plan.
Kenya is set to receive a Ksh51 billion emergency loan from the World Bank within six weeks to mitigate impacts of the Ebola outbreak, El Niño, and high fuel prices. The National Police Service is enhancing readiness by planning to deploy officers to 18 high-risk counties between October and December. Government authorities have begun early measures to curb River Nyando flooding ahead of the El Niño rains.
President William Ruto launched a strong defense of his administration's performance in Kericho, asserting he has fulfilled key campaign promises amid opposition criticism. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki lauded the National Infrastructure Fund as a solution to Kenya's road financing challenges and pledged major road projects in Mt. Kenya East, stating Ruto's development scorecard is extensive and impossible to ignore. Ruto separately stated Kenya has experienced its lowest borrowing levels since he assumed office in 2022, attributing current debt challenges to predecessors. The government and opposition continue heated exchanges over financial management and stalled development projects as the 2027 general election approaches.
The Central Bank of Kenya is introducing new capital and risk rules for banks deemed critical to the nation's financial stability. The Kenya Revenue Authority is implementing President William Ruto's directive to lower the customs clearance threshold for general consolidated cargo and announced a transition to a Multi-Vendor, User-Owned Seals model for electronic cargo tracking. Approximately 2,000 of the 10,000 affordable housing units under the Affordable Housing Programme remain unoccupied, prompting the government to explore new financing models.
A section of Mombasa Road at Cabanas will close for five weeks starting September 17 to allow for drainage construction works, with motorists diverted to designated lanes. The Kenya National Highways Authority warned of 35-day traffic disruptions for motorists heading toward Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. Kenya is simultaneously pursuing new financing from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank to fund a major 243-kilometer expressway and JKIA expansion. Meanwhile, advanced Chinese technology that detects and responds to road incidents in real-time could soon help Nairobi motorists reduce hours in traffic congestion as the city's population approaches seven million by 2035.
EACC detectives have arrested a Narok County surveyor for allegedly soliciting and receiving a Ksh50,000 bribe, with the suspect demanding Ksh100,000 to identify beacons between two land parcels. This comes amid a broader crackdown on corruption, with two Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officers in Kipkelion Sub-County also arrested for allegedly demanding and receiving a Ksh500,000 bribe in connection with a murder case. In a separate dramatic incident, a city lawyer in Westlands, Nairobi, threatened to jump from the eighth floor of his office building to evade DCI officers during an arrest.
President William Ruto stated that his administration did not overpromise Kenyans during the last general election, making these remarks on September 9, 2026, in Bomet Shopping Centre, Bomet County. He also stated that Kenya has experienced its lowest borrowing levels since he assumed office in 2022, attributing the country's current debt challenges to his predecessors. In Kericho, Ruto launched a strong defense of his administration's performance, asserting that he has successfully fulfilled key campaign promises amidst criticism from the opposition. A heated exchange has erupted between the Kenyan government and the opposition, focusing on accusations of financial mismanagement and stalled development projects, with political friction intensifying as the nation looks towards the 2027 general election.
