Comprehensive daily news summaries and story collections from Kenya
The Ministry of Interior has announced stringent security and traffic measures for Kenya's 62nd Jamhuri Day celebrations on Friday at Nyayo National Stadium. Access gates will open at 5:00 am, and guests are expected to be seated by 7:00 am amid heightened security. Attendees have been warned against displaying expensive electronics or jewelry to prevent theft. As part of preparations, police announced that significant road closures will be implemented in Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD) on Friday, December 12. KeNHA also confirmed that several key roads in the CBD and around Nyayo Stadium will be closed for the event.
The 2025 Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) results for over 1.13 million learners have been officially released. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba announced that the results are now available online to streamline dissemination under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). Parents and guardians can access the results online or via SMS to facilitate the transition of learners to Senior Schools. In this year's assessment, girls significantly outperformed boys, excelling in 10 out of 12 subjects. This marks a notable gender gap, with girls showing particular strength in languages and humanities.
The National and County Governments Coordinating Summit has implemented a new resolution mandating prompt salary payments for county employees to end chronic delays. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki mandated that the National Treasury must disburse all county personnel salaries by the third day of every month. County governments were also directed to settle all statutory deductions by the ninth day of each month. Following a separate directive from the same summit, the National Treasury has withdrawn the Public Finance Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025 from Parliament. The bill had aimed to reform rules governing county funding.
Kenya is pushing for the passage of the Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) Bill, 2023, to guarantee essential health services and accelerate progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC). This legislation is aimed at addressing persistently high maternal and child mortality rates. In a separate development, the High Court of Kenya has temporarily suspended the implementation of a $1.6bn Kenya–US Health Cooperation Framework, citing data privacy concerns. Concurrently, the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) is seeking a private investor to develop an ultra-modern medical training complex for its College of Health Sciences. This project is planned to be executed through a Design-Build-Finance-Maintain-Transfer (DBFMT) public-private partnership.
Kenya's new Virtual Assets Service Providers (VASP) Act, 2025, is boosting crypto interest, with the law aiming to regulate activities under the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) and the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK). In another regulatory move, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is enhancing collaboration with the private sector to streamline tax processes and create a predictable business environment. On the financing front, the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has finalized a $150 million (Sh19.3 billion) financing agreement with KCB Bank Kenya. This package is designed to significantly boost KCB's green lending initiatives and reinforce its trade finance operations, addressing capital demands in climate-aligned sectors.
A recent report from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) for Q1 FY 2025/26 highlighted significant trends across the telecommunications and broadcasting sectors. The report found that Kenya's SIM penetration reached 149.4%, with Safaricom's M-PESA service commanding almost 90% of the mobile money market. In data, the average Kenyan 5G user now consumes 40GB per month. Domestic mobile voice traffic grew to 29.93 billion minutes, with Airtel users becoming increasingly talkative, while SMS traffic declined to 14.66 billion messages. Fixed broadband subscriptions also expanded, reaching 2.29 million, a 6.9% quarterly increase, with Safaricom leading the fixed internet market. Additionally, the broadcasting sector rebounded, as GOtv and DStv recorded significant subscription increases.
President William Ruto has defended the Kenya–United States Health Cooperation Framework, assuring Kenyans it will not lead to exploitation and is anchored on firm legal ground. The Consumer Federation of Kenya (COFEK) has filed a lawsuit challenging the Ksh 200 billion health deal, citing concerns over governance, consumer representation, and data privacy. President Ruto responded that the agreement was thoroughly vetted by the Office of the Attorney General and that Kenyan data protection laws would take precedence. In a separate development, the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has labeled at least 15 Kenyans as the 'worst of the worst' illegal aliens. This designation refers to alleged criminal illegal aliens with serious convictions and was announced on a new public webpage.
Kenya is lauding 230 police officers returning from an 18-month tour of duty in Haiti, while another contingent of 230 officers has departed for Haiti to join the Gang Suppression Force. The returning officers were part of the now-defunct Multinational Security Support Mission. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Kenya's 5th Quick Reaction Force (KENQRF 5) has escalated patrols amidst allegations of ceasefire breaches, despite a recent peace accord facilitated by U.S. President Donald Trump. Domestically, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) will be deployed to Kisumu County to assist in the upgrade of Moi Stadium. This project followed a meeting between the Ministry of Defence and the Kisumu County Government and is expected to be completed within the next year.
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has urged the government to promptly submit two overdue human rights reports, warning that delays could jeopardize Kenya's international standing. According to the KNCHR's State of Human Rights Report 2024–2025, violations of Economic, Social, and Cultural (ECOSOC) rights were the most reported abuses in Kenya over the past year. These violations accounted for nearly half of all complaints received by the commission. A separate KNCHR report identifies rising corruption as a major threat to human rights and faults half-hearted anti-corruption measures. The commission has called for comprehensive reforms to combat this corruption. Upholding Kenya's commitments under regional and international law is dependent on the submission of the overdue reports.
Safaricom's debut green bond was significantly oversubscribed, attracting Sh41.4 billion against a target of Sh15 billion. The telecommunications firm will take up Sh20 billion, which is the maximum allowed in this first tranche, after exercising a Sh5 billion greenshoe option. Green bonds are an investment tool for financing environmentally friendly projects, such as renewable energy and clean transport. In other sustainability efforts, Ibis Styles Nairobi Westlands has launched The Green Room, a fully solar-powered events space to reduce the hotel's carbon footprint. Additionally, Ampersand Energy has launched Africa's first open battery-swap network for third-party electric motorcycle manufacturers in a bid to accelerate electric transportation.
The Consumers Federation of Kenya (Cofek) has raised concerns regarding the US–Kenya Health Cooperation Framework, citing potential data-privacy and sovereignty risks for Kenyans. In a separate issue concerning digital rights, a new report by the African Digital Rights Network (ADRN) warns that millions of Africans are being locked out of essential services due to the imposition of biometric digital-ID systems, which raise significant privacy and access concerns. Addressing another form of digital barrier, Nairobi-based advocate Francis Wanjiku has petitioned Chief Justice Martha Koome to remove geo-restrictions on the Judiciary’s e-filing and cause-list portals. Wanjiku argues that the current system disadvantages millions of Kenyans living or traveling abroad. Cofek is pushing for stronger safeguards and consumer representation to be included in the health agreement's governance.
Absa Bank Kenya has launched two innovative customer service models, "Branch on the Move" and "Absa Service Pods," to expand its national presence and improve access to banking services. Similarly, Access Bank Kenya and the National Bank of Kenya (NBK) have launched the “W Initiative”. This is a unified financial proposition aimed at closing the funding gap for women-owned businesses in Kenya. The initiative provides credit, capacity building, and market access. In the technology sector, Zoho's Young Creators Program completed a tour across East Africa, including Kenya, teaching 150 individuals to build apps using low-code platforms and AI with little to no coding knowledge.
Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have apprehended a suspect responsible for the fraudulent acquisition of a Ksh200 million land parcel in Karen, Nairobi. The individual was arrested after allegedly forging a deed of gift to unlawfully claim the property. In a separate case, an investigation revealed an elaborate recruitment scam on TikTok where scammers use fake overseas job offers, ask for large “processing fees,” and deliver forged documents to victims. Additionally, a man accused of impersonating a Kenya Air Force Brigadier and defrauding parents of aspiring recruits was dramatically rearrested at the Milimani Law Courts on December 9, 2025. This followed his initial arrest on November 17, 2025, and release on bond for similar charges.
A Kenyan court has ordered the exhumation of Safiya Hussein Bilal's remains for a fresh autopsy, seeking crucial forensic evidence in the investigation into her alleged defilement and murder. In a separate case, the mother of recently deceased gospel artist Betty Bayo, Joyce Wairimu Mbugua, has filed a petition with the ODPP seeking an inquest into her daughter's "mysterious death." Mbugua alleges an "evil hand" and that the burial was rushed, despite reports linking Bayo's death to acute leukaemia. Meanwhile, detectives are investigating the homicide of 12-year-old Patience Mumbe, who was found murdered on Saturday, December 6, in Nairobi's Embakasi KAA estate. CCTV footage has revealed the child's last moments before the brutal attack.
Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka has indicated plans for private prosecution against Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chiefs over alleged irregularities in recent by-elections. Speaking in Murang’a, Musyoka accused the government of colluding with the IEBC. In another political development, former ODM leader Raila Odinga's chief agent, Saitabao Ole Kanchory, revealed a secret plan by Odinga to make President William Ruto a one-term president. Meanwhile, lawyer Ndegwa Njiru, known for defending Rigathi Gachagua during his impeachment trial, publicly declared his support for Kalonzo Musyoka's Wiper party during an interview on December 8.
Kenya has deployed a fifth contingent of 230 specialized police officers to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, for security reinforcement under the Gang Suppression Force (GSF). This deployment follows President William Ruto's recent commitment to supporting Haiti in addressing gang violence. The arrival of Kenyan police in Haiti marks the first deployment since the UN expanded the mission's mandate. Separately, Kenya hosted Silent Warrior 2025, a high-level security forum led by the United States. The conference brought together senior military leaders from 40 nations to discuss counterterrorism and strengthen partnerships. This was the second time the conference has been held in Africa.
Opposition leaders Kalonzo Musyoka and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have criticized President William Ruto for allegedly authorizing the sale of government shares in Safaricom without public input. In another challenge to the president's camp, Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale is reportedly distancing himself from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), marking a potential political shift in Western Kenya. This development suggests a brewing political battle and enmity that could redefine regional allegiances. Furthermore, recent by-elections have become a significant political indicator, with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki's prominent role sparking debate and potentially causing concern for President William Ruto.
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon has issued a stern warning to political actors attempting to influence or intimidate election officials, emphasizing that such schemes are futile in Kenya's transparent system. Separately, People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua expressed alarm over increasing repression and democratic decline across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Karua cited state-sanctioned brutality and shrinking civil liberties as concerns. The integrity of political processes is also being questioned due to the high cost and political motivations behind governors' impeachments, with legal experts noting substantial resources are expended in these trials.
Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka accused the Kenya Kwanza government of reckless debt management and covert attempts to privatize national assets, citing the country's escalating public debt. Concurrently, the National Assembly has initiated public participation for the government's plan to sell a 15% stake in Safaricom PLC, a move projected to raise Sh244.5 billion. This proposal is facing significant backlash over potential undervaluation and lack of transparency. In a related financial matter, the National Treasury has invited Kenyans to submit tax policy proposals for the 2026/2027 budget and Finance Bill 2026. This initiative aims to enhance public participation following protests over a previous finance bill in 2024.
Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Chairperson Edung Ethekon confirmed a 99% functionality rate for KIEMS kits during the November 27 by-elections. He stated that thanks to enhanced transparency, improved technology, and strict audit trails, stealing an election in Kenya is now "an impossibility". Ethekon emphasized that the electoral system is designed to prevent manipulation without immediate detection. However, he also issued a severe warning about "super agents," identified as senior politicians, who allegedly disrupted elections through intimidation and unlawful interference. This interference was noted as a particular issue during the by-elections held on November 27.
Opposition leaders Kalonzo Musyoka and former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua have criticized President William Ruto for allegedly authorizing the sale of government shares in Safaricom without public input. In another challenge to the president's camp, Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale is reportedly distancing himself from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), marking a potential political shift in Western Kenya. This development suggests a brewing political battle and enmity that could redefine regional allegiances. Furthermore, recent by-elections have become a significant political indicator, with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki's prominent role sparking debate and potentially causing concern for President William Ruto.
IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon has issued a stern warning to political actors attempting to influence or intimidate election officials, emphasizing that such schemes are futile in Kenya's transparent system. Separately, People’s Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua expressed alarm over increasing repression and democratic decline across Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Karua cited state-sanctioned brutality and shrinking civil liberties as concerns. The integrity of political processes is also being questioned due to the high cost and political motivations behind governors' impeachments, with legal experts noting substantial resources are expended in these trials.
Several financial and investment entities have announced significant capital and business initiatives. Credit Bank is seeking approval from its shareholders to raise up to Sh4.5 billion through a private placement to bolster its capital base and fund growth. In a move to support a different sector, NCBA Bank and HEVA Fund have partnered to launch bespoke credit products targeting Kenya’s creative economy. This partnership aims to address a long-standing gap in financial services for artists and creative enterprises. In the real estate sector, GenAfrica Asset Managers has acquired The Cube, a commercial property on Riverside Drive. The acquisition was made through its Batian Property Fund as part of a strategy to boost pension returns.
The National Assembly has invited the public to submit views on the government's plan to sell a 15 percent stake in Safaricom to raise Sh244.5 billion for infrastructure projects. Concurrently, the High Court has ordered the Kenyan government to pay approximately Sh24 billion to Kwale International Sugar Company Limited (KISCOL). This ruling is a result of a failed land deal and the state's inability to ensure the investor had quiet possession of the leased land. In a separate matter, industry stakeholders are urging the government to enforce regulations regarding local participation in the mining sector. This call stems from widespread non-compliance by mining companies, with the aim of ensuring more opportunities for Kenyan professionals.
The Kakamega County Government has ordered the immediate closure of the Shiveye gold mine after three people died in a collapse. Deputy Governor Ayub Savula stated the closure is temporary to allow a safety audit by the Ministry of Mining. Separately, a tragic road accident on the Nairobi–Mombasa Highway near Voi town has resulted in seven fatalities after a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) collided head-on with a truck. The crash occurred around 4am on Sunday when the PSV was attempting to overtake another vehicle. Another head-on collision on the same highway in Masenyi, near Voi, on Sunday, December 7, between a PSV and a trailer resulted in an unspecified number of deaths. This followed another fatal crash on Friday, December 5, in Bumala, Busia County, where a PSV overturned and killed four people.
Kenya's political landscape is seeing significant shifts, with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) facing a fracturing of its once unified voting bloc, a process accelerated by its engagement in the broad-based government (BBG). In the opposition, Embakasi North MP James Gakuya has publicly urged former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i and the Jubilee Party to align with other opposition groups, warning against fracturing the fragile United Opposition ahead of the 2027 elections. On the government side, the ruling UDA party removed Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale as Senate Majority Whip. Following his ouster, Democracy Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa extended an invitation for Khalwale to join his party. Wamalwa claimed that Khalwale was being unfairly targeted by UDA for defending the Luhya community.
The Kenya Cup saw dominant performances from KCB, Menengai Oilers, and defending champions Kabras Sugar, who all secured significant victories for the third consecutive week, with Kabras delivering a record-setting win. In the SportPesa Premier League, Gor Mahia is set to face AFC Leopards in the 98th Mashemeji Derby at Nyayo Stadium, aiming to solidify their lead. Meanwhile, in the FKF Women’s Premier League, the undefeated Kenya Police Bullets will face Ulinzi Starlets at Police Sacco Stadium. The Bullets are aiming for their sixth consecutive win to extend their flawless record, while the Starlets seek to stay in the title race.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has accused DCP Party leader Rigathi Gachagua of attempting to sow division in the Coast region through an upcoming visit. In contrast, leaders from Western Kenya are being called upon to foster social cohesion to attract crucial development projects. A group of clergy in Kisii County has also urged political leaders to foster unity and desist from divisive rhetoric in anticipation of the 2027 elections. Separately, Jubilee Deputy Party Leader Dr. Fred Matiang’i publicly supported the clergy for criticizing what he termed as poor leadership in Kenya.
The Kenyan government, through Lands CS Alice Wahome, has announced plans to expand Kisumu to foster growth and development. Similarly, the Machakos County Government plans to enhance housing for its residents through strategic public–private partnerships. Meanwhile, a government project in Nairobi has led to conflict, as residents of Kibra dispute a 21-day eviction notice issued to clear the way for the project. The notice has sparked disputes among community members facing displacement.
In Makueni, a tragic incident occurred where a man reportedly killed his wife before taking his own life. Amidst such events, initiatives are taking place to support victims of abuse. A new shelter has opened in Wajir, offering refuge and support for vulnerable individuals. Additionally, the "Activate Nairobi" initiative, featuring Social Justice Theatre, concluded its show on gender equality and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) at Comboni School. These actions highlight efforts to provide safeguarding and raise awareness.
The US and Israeli governments have issued travel advisories for Tanzania due to planned anti-government protests, with a significant event expected on December 9, 2025. The warnings follow post-election unrest after the October 29, 2025 general elections. Ghana has also raised concerns over the escalating violence, though Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan has blamed foreign interference for the situation. In a related development, Sweden announced plans to gradually discontinue development aid to Tanzania, redirecting funds to other priorities. A US-based Tanzanian activist, Mange Kimambi, also alleged that the Tanzanian government influenced the deactivation of her social media accounts to silence reporting on alleged human rights abuses ahead of the protests.
Kenyan law enforcement agencies conducted several major operations. The DCI arrested three suspects in connection with the fraudulent transfer of National Social Security Fund (NSSF) land valued at approximately KES 350 million. In Kakamega, sixty-three individuals, including two MCAs, were arrested in connection with violent protests in Ikolomani Sub-County that led to four deaths. Police in Nairobi also busted a fake vehicle number plate syndicate in Kariobangi South, seizing over 100 illegal items. During a separate incident in Kitale, a DCI officer was fatally stabbed while attempting to arrest a murder suspect.
President William Ruto has revoked the appointment of Basil Criticos as the Chairperson of the Kenya Trade Network Agency (KenTrade), a decision made effective December 5, 2025. In other political developments, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua claimed the government blocked his flight to a ceremony in Kakamega, forcing him to deliver his speech via phone. Meanwhile, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru publicly denied claims that she was joining Mr. Gachagua's political faction. Waiguru asserted her political independence as the 2027 elections approach and warned supporters against premature alignments.
The impeachment process for governors and their deputies in Kenya, which was intended to protect public resources from misuse, has reportedly become a tool for corruption and wasteful spending. Kenyan senators have acknowledged that county assemblies frequently misuse the impeachment process against governors. This misuse has sparked concerns about the integrity of the exercise since the beginning of devolution. These concerns were highlighted during a recent high-profile impeachment hearing of Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo before the Senate. The process for governors and their deputies is now viewed by some as a broken system.
A court in Ndhiwa has sentenced two men to 10 years in jail or a Sh5 million fine each for vandalizing electricity equipment, part of intensified efforts to curb attacks on power infrastructure. In a separate action against fraud, Taiwan announced a one-year ban on the Chinese social media app RedNote after over 1,700 scam cases were detected, resulting in losses exceeding NT$247 million. Additionally, a High Court decision in Kenya bolstered the fight against tax evasion by upholding a significant portion of a Sh773 million tax assessment against a construction company. The company was found to be involved in a "missing trader" scheme.
Microsoft and the African Development Bank launched a Pan-African financing facility to digitize agricultural SMEs, which will blend investment capital with digital and AI tools. In the construction sector, the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) launched an online portal for registering engineering projects to enhance oversight and professionalism. This move aims to address concerns about unapproved constructions. Separately, the global insurtech organization Bolttech has acquired Nairobi-based digital insurance platform mTek. This acquisition marks a significant consolidation in East Africa's insurtech market and sets the stage for regional expansion.
Kenya has sealed a Health Cooperation Framework Agreement with the United States, securing $1.6 billion (Ksh207 billion) over five years to bolster its healthcare system and support reforms including the Social Health Authority (SHA). President William Ruto witnessed the signing, making Kenya the first nation to enter such a partnership. The deal sparked concerns about a potential data breach, following allegations that it would grant the U.S. unrestricted access to Kenya's national health databases. Kenya's Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale addressed these claims. The US Embassy clarified via Charge d’Affaires Susan Burns that the health data to be shared will be aggregated and not personally identifiable.
Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have signed a historic peace deal in Washington, D.C., aimed at ending a 30-year conflict in Eastern Congo. The signing ceremony was hosted and witnessed by US President Donald Trump, who hailed the event as a "great day" for Africa and the world. President Trump presided over the signing of the Washington Accords and expressed confidence that the leaders of both nations would uphold their commitments. The ceremony was also witnessed by other world leaders, including Kenyan President William Ruto. The agreement is intended to resolve over three decades of conflict in the region.
The United States has initiated a comprehensive review of its relationship with Tanzania, citing serious concerns over the Tanzanian government’s recent actions regarding governance, human rights, and security. The U.S. Department of State announced the review on Thursday, December 4. This follows accusations that Meta is enabling state repression. US Senator Jim Risch criticized Meta for restricting social media access for Tanzanian activists at the request of the Tanzanian government. Activist Maria Sarungi accused Meta of complicity after the company restricted access to her Instagram account in Tanzania just days before planned anti-government protests, claiming the move suppresses dissent under President Samia Suluhu.
The impeachment process for governors and their deputies in Kenya, which was intended to protect public resources from misuse, has reportedly become a tool for corruption and wasteful spending. Kenyan senators have acknowledged that county assemblies frequently misuse the impeachment process against governors. This misuse has sparked concerns about the integrity of the exercise since the beginning of devolution. These concerns were highlighted during a recent high-profile impeachment hearing of Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo before the Senate. The process for governors and their deputies is now viewed by some as a broken system.
A court in Ndhiwa has sentenced two men to 10 years in jail or a Sh5 million fine each for vandalizing electricity equipment, part of intensified efforts to curb attacks on power infrastructure. In a separate action against fraud, Taiwan announced a one-year ban on the Chinese social media app RedNote after over 1,700 scam cases were detected, resulting in losses exceeding NT$247 million. Additionally, a High Court decision in Kenya bolstered the fight against tax evasion by upholding a significant portion of a Sh773 million tax assessment against a construction company. The company was found to be involved in a "missing trader" scheme.
Microsoft and the African Development Bank launched a Pan-African financing facility to digitize agricultural SMEs, which will blend investment capital with digital and AI tools. In the construction sector, the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) launched an online portal for registering engineering projects to enhance oversight and professionalism. This move aims to address concerns about unapproved constructions. Separately, the global insurtech organization Bolttech has acquired Nairobi-based digital insurance platform mTek. This acquisition marks a significant consolidation in East Africa's insurtech market and sets the stage for regional expansion.
President William Ruto arrived in Washington, D.C., to witness a peace agreement signing between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda. During the visit, Kenya secured a Health Cooperation Framework Agreement with the U.S., which provides $1.6 billion (Ksh207 billion) over five years for the healthcare system. In addition, an agreement was reached for a debt-for-food swap to boost food security. The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) approved a Sh162 billion (approximately $1 billion) debt-for-food-security swap to replace expensive loans. Another account of the deal reported it as USD 1 billion (Ksh129 billion) after a meeting between President Ruto and DFC CEO Ben Black.
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party announced it will hold grassroots elections in 20 counties on Saturday, January 10, 2026. This decision was made after a joint meeting of the party's National Executive Committee (NEC) and National Election Board (NEB). Concurrently, President William Ruto's UDA party is facing a legal challenge to a recent by-election victory. Two voters have petitioned against the win of Leo Wa Muthende in Mbeere North, alleging irregularities and claiming he was not a registered voter. In a related development, rights organizations led by Vocal Africa gave the IEBC and EACC a 14-day ultimatum to act on alleged widespread electoral offences during recent by-elections, threatening legal action.
The National Assembly's Public Investment Committee has uncovered Ksh1 billion in unsupported expenditure at the New Kenya Planters Cooperative Union (NKPCU), a government company. The committee noted significant financial and administrative irregularities. Separately, DCI detectives arrested Maroa Sammy Maroa, a civil servant and economist with the State Department for Cabinet Affairs, for alleged forgery schemes. Maroa is accused of forging a letter to influence the police recruitment process. He was also previously accused of forging a letter to promote himself to director.
Kenyan politician Shadrack Maritim, who disappeared in October, has been found alive in Mbale, Uganda. His family had previously alleged threats from a senior officer at the National Police Service Commission (NPSC). Another report identified the man as a missing Nandi politician found alive in Uganda. In a separate incident, the United Nations Human Rights Chief Volker Türk issued a warning to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni. The warning regarded the arbitrary arrest and detention of activists and opposition politicians, specifically highlighting the enforced disappearance of two Kenyan activists.
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) will hold grassroots elections in 20 counties on Saturday, January 10, 2026, to strengthen its local structures ahead of the 2027 General Election. This action follows previous elections the party held in 22 counties in April 2025. In parallel, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), led by Rigathi Gachagua, is asserting its rise as a national force after securing three out of five MCA seats in recent by-elections. Gachagua highlighted these victories as evidence of increasing national popularity with an eye on the 2027 polls. As parties position themselves, the political battle for offices in Nairobi is intensifying with 20 months remaining, with the gubernatorial race attracting significant attention.
The Kenyan government sold a 15 percent stake in Safaricom, raising Sh244.5 billion for infrastructure investments and increasing Vodacom Group’s control over Safaricom to 55 percent. This transaction occurred as Kenya's private sector experienced its strongest recovery in over five years in November, driven by a significant increase in new business and consumer spending. In a separate financial development, a High Court decision upheld a significant portion of a Sh773 million tax assessment against a construction company. This ruling is seen as bolstering Kenya's fight against "missing trader" tax evasion schemes.
The Elections Observation Group (ELOG) voiced serious concerns regarding the integrity of the November 27 by-elections, citing widespread irregularities despite the IEBC's technical competence. ELOG lauded the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) for its strong technical performance but highlighted significant electoral malpractices that undermined the polls' credibility. Separately, former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala accused the government of orchestrating the disappearance of at least 14 Kenyans during the by-elections held across 24 regions. Speaking on Wednesday, December 3, Malala also highlighted alleged state brutality and widespread violence during the polls. ELOG's findings pointed to a contrast between the IEBC's technical delivery and the overall integrity of the elections.
The Kenyan Senate altered its calendar to convene on Wednesday to address the impeachment charges against Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo. Senators held a closed-door meeting in Nairobi before the trial began to establish the rules for the impeachment proceedings. During his trial before the Senate, Governor Amos Nyaribo pleaded not guilty to all impeachment charges brought against him by Members of County Assembly (MCAs). He claimed the impeachment vote in the Kisii County Assembly did not meet the required threshold. The Senate's hearing accommodates extended morning and afternoon sittings to address the charges.
U.S. President Donald Trump issued a new directive pausing all immigration applications from 19 non-European countries, but Kenya was notably spared from the ban. This development coincided with President William Ruto's visit to the U.S. on Trump's invitation. In a separate development, the White House implicated Kenya as a recipient of alleged fraud proceeds from a scheme involving Somali migrants in the United States, as part of the Trump Administration's criticism of US refugee and asylum policies. Whistleblower Nelson Amenya also revealed an alleged 25-year health security pact between the Kenyan government and the Trump administration. This deal would reportedly grant the US real-time access to all Kenyan health records and allow sharing of disease specimens.
The Senate began impeachment proceedings for Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo, marking the sixth such motion before the current Senate. During the hearing on December 3, 2025, Governor Nyaribo pleaded not guilty to the charges. This was his third impeachment attempt, and there were disputes over the validity of the County Assembly's voting threshold. Ultimately, Governor Nyaribo survived the impeachment effort on December 3, 2025. Senators rejected the motion on a technicality, an outcome that mirrors similar decisions which saved governors in Kericho and Isiolo.
NCBA Bank is bolstering its support for Kenyan small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through an expanded Enterprise Development Programme run in partnership with Strathmore Business School. This initiative aims to equip businesses with crucial skills for sustainable growth. Similarly, Zoho is expanding its Young Creators Program (YCP) across East Africa to address the growing digital skills gap by offering hands-on training in low-code application development. In a separate initiative, Standard Chartered Bank has partnered with CFOs East Africa to enhance wealth and risk management capabilities among Chief Financial Officers and senior finance professionals. This collaboration builds on the bank's sponsorship of the annual CFOs East Africa Awards 2025 and introduces an advisory pathway for managing corporate and personal assets.
The Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) has fined Directline Assurance Company Limited 85 million Kenyan Shillings for abusing its buyer power against two small motor vehicle repair firms, Kilele Motors Limited and Midland Autocare Limited. In a separate regulatory action, the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) fined Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) Kenya and its Uganda subsidiary a combined Sh500,000 for breaching Kenya's Data Protection Act, 2019, following a complaint about mishandling customer data. Meanwhile, in a legal matter, a coalition of 15 petitioners, including smallholder farmers and Greenpeace Africa, have filed an appeal against a High Court decision. The petitioners contest the ruling that overturned significant sections of Kenya's Seed and Plant Varieties Act.
The UDA party has ousted Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale as the Senate Majority Whip, a decision confirmed by Senate Speaker Amason Kingi. He was immediately replaced by Bungoma Senator David Wakoli Wafula. Khalwale was one of several politicians facing removal from parliamentary positions due to alleged disloyalty to their parties. This followed their campaigning for opposition candidates in recent by-elections. Separately, the High Court ordered the reinstatement of the security details for both Senator Khalwale and Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya. Their security had been controversially withdrawn, prompting a legal challenge that alleged the move was unconstitutional and politically motivated.
The Kenyan Senate is set to convene on Wednesday to address the impeachment charges against Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo. To accommodate the hearing, the Senate has altered its calendar for morning and extended afternoon sittings. Governor Nyaribo faces charges that include gross misconduct and abuse of office, and he has unveiled a seven-member legal team for his defense. The impeachment proceedings have been complicated by a new development, as three Members of the Nyamira County Assembly filed a forgery complaint. These MCAs deny participating in the impeachment vote and have accused the assembly of forging their signatures.
Nairobi has been ranked the third most attractive city in Africa in the Jeune Afrique 2025 African Cities Attractiveness Index, cementing its position as a regional tech and investment hub. Supporting this, a recent High Court decision in the Bruton Gold case reaffirmed that foreign companies do not need local registration to pursue legal claims, a move that reduces uncertainty for international businesses. The Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) is also leveraging new technology to boost foreign investment, with Absa Securities Kenya executing the first sponsored access trades. This new model allows foreign investors to directly access the NSE’s trading engine for faster execution. Additionally, Viktoria Ventures has been awarded "Angel Network of the Year 2025" at the Africa Early-Stage Investor Summit for strengthening early-stage financing across Africa.
Kenya has selected Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) to operate its first nuclear power plant, a pivotal step towards adding up to 10 gigawatts of new electricity capacity for industrial growth. In a separate energy sector development, Kenya Power has digitized its electricity connection application process, requiring all new applications to be submitted exclusively through its online platform to improve efficiency. In agriculture, the government is transforming the Galana Kulalu area into Kenya's first Agricultural Special Economic Zone (SEZ). The transformation was announced by Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe. This new SEZ is designed to boost large-scale farming and food security by attracting global agribusiness investors.
Wise has received its first African regulatory approval from the South African Reserve Bank, permitting it to offer international money transfer services to customers in South Africa. In Kenya, iColo has appointed Wanja Muriithi as its new General Manager to accelerate business growth and strengthen Digital Realty's presence across East Africa. Also in Kenya, the Kenya School of TVET (KSTVET), in partnership with Huawei Technologies Kenya, completed a program that equipped 65 TVET lecturers with advanced Artificial Intelligence and ICT skills. Meanwhile, Westcon-Comstor Southern Africa has been awarded RUCKUS Platinum Distributor Status, recognizing its excellence in revenue performance and partner enablement for RUCKUS Networks' solutions.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot revealed that Mohamed Salah was unhappy after being benched for the team's 2-0 victory against West Ham, a decision which followed 9 defeats in 12 games. In another English Premier League match, Arsenal managed a 1-1 draw against title rivals Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, with manager Mikel Arteta praising his team's resilience. In other news involving a Premier League player, Cameroon dropped Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. This decision, along with the firing of coach Marc Brys, follows the team's failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
