Comprehensive daily news summaries and story collections from Kenya
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has declared he will continue to openly criticize President William Ruto's leadership and address issues of corruption, signaling a significant rift within the current administration. This comes amid recent sharp remarks made by the President towards the opposition. At the same time, President William Ruto cautioned against the politicization of places of worship, specifically addressing religious leaders in Siaya County, urging them to prevent churches from becoming political battlegrounds. Additionally, President Ruto publicly responded to claims of "double standards" made by members of the clergy, as reported by KTN News Kenya.
Heavy rains have caused devastating floods in Makueni County, resulting in the deaths of at least nine people, bringing the total death toll from extreme weather across Kenya to 77. Separately, heavy overnight rains have caused widespread flooding in Kisumu, submerging homes and disrupting daily life across the city. Moreover, heavy rains on Friday night left hundreds of residents in Dago Village, Kisumu East, stranded and homeless after their homes were flooded.
President William Ruto launched Phase 2C of the Kisumu-Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) in Kisumu County, asserting that his administration's development agenda is progressing despite challenges. Uganda President Yoweri Museveni hailed the launch as crucial for safer and more cost-effective regional trade. Ruto revealed negotiations that led Uganda to acquire a 21% stake in the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC), detailing direct discussions with President Museveni. The groundbreaking ceremony was presided over by both presidents, marking a significant milestone for Kenya's infrastructure and East African trade.
A passenger plane carrying 39 people veered off the runway at Wilson Airport on Friday, March 20, shortly after landing from Kisumu. All individuals on board were reported safe with no injuries. Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi was among the survivors, recounting the terrifying ordeal. Following the incident, Vihiga Senator Geoffrey Osotsi called for the immediate closure and comprehensive upgrade of Wilson Airport, citing safety concerns. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the incident.
Visible cracks and crumbling walls in Nairobi CBD buildings are causing fear as heavy rains lead to flooding and raise concerns about structural safety. Several vehicles plunged into an unmarked trench on University Way on Friday night, causing outrage against the Kenya National Highways Authority following overnight flooding. Nairobi County demolished public lavatories and adjacent businesses near the National Archives overnight on Friday, March 20, sparking outrage among local traders and residents who were left counting losses.
The Kenyan government has launched an all-out war against bandits in Meru and neighboring counties, deploying the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to bolster security operations. The National Police Service is appealing to residents in Meru, Isiolo, Samburu, and Laikipia counties to share intelligence regarding a surge in banditry that has resulted in deaths and stolen cattle. In a significant development following Inspector General Kanja's directive, DCI officers in Meru shot dead a notorious gang leader during a fierce gun battle hours after the announcement of the crackdown.
Kenya's opposition coalition has threatened to boycott the 2027 general election if significant reforms are not implemented at the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC). The United Opposition is demanding the commission terminate its contract with electoral management firm Smartmatic, citing concerns over the integrity of the upcoming polls. Opposition leaders are urging President Ruto's administration to expedite the review and amendment of electoral laws ahead of the 2027 election, expressing concerns that delays could jeopardize the integrity of future polls. Separately, Members of Parliament and IEBC are meeting in Mombasa from March 31 to April 3 to set new rules for the 2027 General Election, where President William Ruto is seeking a second and final term.
An aircraft carrying 39 passengers veered off the runway while landing at Wilson Airport on Friday evening, with all individuals safely evacuated and no injuries reported. This incident occurs amid broader infrastructure scrutiny, as the High Court in Nairobi dismissed a petition alleging ethnic bias and unconstitutional board appointments at the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO), finding legal flaws in the case. In a separate development, Kenya's government launched a 30 percent group incentive for cruise tourists to encourage visits to national parks, aiming to enhance the "cruise-to-park" experience and increase inland tourism. Meanwhile, Dr. Dorcas Kamuya of KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme continues championing ethics and community involvement in health research, representing ongoing institutional development in Kenya's research sector.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced a major blockage along the Mai Mahiu-Suswa-Narok highway due to heavy rains causing flooding and silt deposition near Kedong Ranch, affecting traffic flow. The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning for heavy rains across several regions of Kenya, expected to begin on Friday, March 20, and continue through Tuesday, March 24. A senior Kenyan police officer has begun a 250-kilometer peace walk from Nyamira to Kakamega to foster better relations between the public and law enforcement and promote accountability within the National Police Service (NPS).
Kenya is poised for a significant export boost as China announced zero-tariff access for Kenyan goods starting May 1, 2026, marking a pivotal shift towards an export-led economy. China's Vice President Han Zheng is embarking on a diplomatic tour of Kenya, South Africa, and Seychelles from March 22 to 30, with his visit to Kenya coinciding with the revival of the crucial Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension project following recent debt restructuring. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Nairobi hosted the African Diplomatic Corps to outline Kenya's foreign policy priorities and its vision for the continent's developmental agenda.
Kenya faces the risk of losing its hosting rights for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) next year due to a failure to pay the required hosting fees. The Kenyan government is actively seeking United Kingdom investor funding to develop world-class sports infrastructure, mirroring the UK's successful model, during a meeting between Kenya's Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and the UK's Minister of Border Security and Asylum Alex Norris in London. Separately, Kenya's Bomas International Convention Centre (BICC) project has reached 40% completion, showcasing significant progress in developing world-class MICE facilities to boost Kenya's tourism and economic transformation.
The Nairobi Hospital has officially debunked claims of financial collapse and operational instability, asserting its solid standing and ongoing recovery from past disruptions. A Medical Advisory Committee (MAC) at The Nairobi Hospital has disowned five of its members who petitioned President William Ruto regarding management disputes, citing procedural breaches and misleading information. Separately, Kenya's Social Health Authority (SHA) faces a critical sustainability crisis, with revenue streams failing to cover mounting operational costs, according to warnings from Members of Parliament.
The United States, under the Trump administration, has introduced a Visa Bond Pilot program requiring citizens from Ethiopia and six other African nations, along with six non-African countries, to post bonds of up to Ksh1.9 million ($15,000) for visa applications. Kenya is on high alert as Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya assured the nation of continuous vigilance amidst escalating global security risks, particularly those stemming from the US-Iran-Israel conflict and wider Middle East instability. European Union leaders are vowing to remain vigilant against potential migratory flows and the spillover of Middle East conflicts, emphasizing preparedness and border security.
President William Ruto concluded his Western Kenya tour by defending his Affordable Housing Programme against opposition criticism, framing it as a vital solution to shrinking agricultural land. This defense came as he vowed to continue aggressively responding to his political opponents, pushing back against criticism from the clergy and others who have called for more restrained public discourse. At the same time, President Ruto declared a firm stance against leaders promoting divisive politics and ethnic intolerance in Kenya, vowing decisive action against them. The Western Kenya tour and these simultaneous statements represent a coordinated political communication strategy as Ruto prepares for future electoral challenges.
Twenty-two people have been rescued after a building collapsed in Kericho County on Wednesday, with four survivors in critical condition. One person was confirmed dead and several others injured following the collapse of a building under construction in Kericho's Kaptebeswet Bypass area. Search and rescue efforts are ongoing as authorities work to account for all individuals present at the site. In a separate incident, two construction workers are reportedly trapped after a 22-storey building under construction in Westlands partially collapsed on Wednesday. Emergency teams are conducting search and rescue operations after this incident in Nairobi.
Kenyan Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has officially declared Friday, March 20, 2026, a public holiday across Kenya to commemorate Idd-ul-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The Kenyan government has declared Friday, March 20, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate the Muslim festival of Idd-ul-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan. This announcement was made via a gazette notice, signaling the nation's recognition of this significant Islamic observance.
President William Ruto has officially launched the construction of the Naivasha–Kisumu–Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension at a groundbreaking ceremony in Suswa, Narok County. This project aims to significantly cut transport costs and boost regional trade across the country. Former Attorney General Justin Muturi has expressed serious concerns about the newly established National Infrastructure Fund, warning it could lead to a major corruption scandal, likening the potential risks to Malaysia's notorious 1MDB scandal. Construction of the SGR extension has officially commenced after the groundbreaking ceremony.
The High Court has declared aspects of the 2024 Social Health Authority (SHA) rollout unconstitutional but has not suspended its implementation, ordering the government to rectify issues within 90 days. In a separate legal development, the High Court has temporarily reinstated Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi to Parliament, overturning a suspension order issued by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula. The High Court also ordered the Kenyan government to produce eight crucial procurement documents related to the Ksh10 billion Ngong-Riruta commuter meter-gauge railway project within 30 days, following a petition filed by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah challenging the project's constitutionality and financial viability.
A proposal to have EALA MP Winnie Odinga serve as a co-deputy party leader alongside her uncle Dr. Oburu Oginga within the ODM party has sparked internal divisions and controversy. Critics view the appointment as an attempt to turn the party into a family affair, involving three members of the Odinga family in top leadership roles. The party has postponed discussions regarding Winnie's potential appointment, meaning she will have to wait longer to pursue her leadership ambitions within the party. The appointment has ignited debate among party members regarding the selection process and its potential implications for the party's future.
President William Ruto has defended his recent criticisms of the opposition during his Western Kenya tour, vowing to confront rivals directly while highlighting his administration's development agenda for the Western region. The President stated he would engage opponents head-on, employing a strategy of responding to insults with only 1% of his time, reserving the remaining 99% for serving Kenyans. Ruto concluded his tour by defending his Affordable Housing Programme against opposition criticism, framing it as a vital solution to shrinking agricultural land. These remarks come as Kenya faces escalating political tensions and divisive rhetoric 16 months ahead of the 2027 elections, with leaders from opposing factions engaging in public insults and personal attacks.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has refuted allegations linking him to the death of blogger Maureen Kinyua, stating she died in a road accident. The Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA-Kenya) has officially denied issuing a statement that falsely implicated former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua in the murder of a university student. Separately, Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has stated that the 2027 general election cannot be rigged, citing changes in vote counting procedures, while also accusing President William Ruto of hoarding national identity cards. The political animosity between President William Ruto and his former Deputy Rigathi Gachagua has escalated into verbal exchanges.
Former Migori Governor Okoth Obado and his two co-accused will learn their fate on May 29, 2026, in the murder case of Sharon Otieno. Meanwhile, the Employment and Labour Relations Court has temporarily halted the Public Service Commission's (PSC) directive to set a mandatory retirement age of 70 for university lecturers and researchers. Additionally, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has arrested a court assistant in Mombasa for allegedly soliciting and receiving a bribe to obstruct justice, and a Court Assistant in Mombasa has been separately arrested for allegedly soliciting and receiving a Ksh10,000 bribe.
The second contingent of over 200 Kenyan police officers has returned home from Haiti, successfully concluding their deployment with the Multinational Security Support Mission. A batch of 215 Kenyan officers arrived back in Nairobi on Tuesday evening. Meanwhile, Chad is preparing to take over their role in a restructured security mission. Additionally, Kenya's Principal Secretary Steve Isaboke met with the European Commission to discuss strengthening digital cooperation between Kenya and the EU. Separately, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued a warning about fake recruitment messages circulating online, coinciding with the rollout of major road projects across the country.
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has publicly defended President William Ruto against critics labeling him 'unpresidential', urging them to focus on their own agendas rather than personal attacks. Kindiki has also declared a firm stance against the opposition, vowing to dismantle their 'lies and propaganda' and confront them 'eyeball to eyeball'. This comes as a coalition of Kenyan civil society, faith, and governance groups strongly criticized President William Ruto over allegedly 'reckless remarks' and a significant increase in the State House budget amidst a harsh economic climate. At the same time, President William Ruto and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i have traded sharp political barbs, escalating a growing feud that includes personal remarks about eating habits and physical appearance.
Tiaty Member of Parliament (MP) William Kamket and his wife, first Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait, are grieving the loss of their 13-year-old son, Bill Ballot, who passed away on Tuesday, March 17. President William Ruto has sent his condolences to the grieving couple on the passing of their son, Bill Ballot Kassait Junior. The young boy passed away on Tuesday, March 17.
President William Ruto used profanity and personal attacks against opposition leaders during a development tour in Bungoma County on March 17, 2027. His remarks included body-shaming and unpresidential language directed at political rivals. The Standard newspaper published an editorial titled "The Bold Standard: Unpresidential" criticizing the President's actions and pronouncements. Leaders from the Linda Mwananchi brigade, including Babu and Orengo, strongly criticized President William Ruto and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for what they described as unethical and unbecoming public outbursts.
State House has defended President William Ruto's involvement in The Nairobi Hospital crisis, stating his actions were in response to petitions regarding leadership wrangles and mismanagement. President Ruto pledged government intervention to restore The Nairobi Hospital to its former premier status amidst a deepening governance and legal crisis. The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has raised concerns over the credibility and transparency of their upcoming elections scheduled for April 2. Separately, Kenyatta National Hospital is transitioning to a fully paperless system with the launch of the Afya Apex HMIS/ERP system, set to go live on March 20.
The death toll from ongoing floods across Kenya has tragically risen to 71, with the National Police Service reporting five additional fatalities. The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecasted heavy rains and isolated thunderstorms across several parts of the country starting Thursday. Recent heavy rains have caused widespread flooding, submerging vehicles and leading motorists to question their insurance coverage. Britam, a leading insurance provider, has clarified what happens to car insurance claims when vehicles are flood-damaged.
Four people have died and four others were rescued after a building collapsed in Nairobi's Shauri Moyo area on Monday during partial demolition for the Nairobi River Regeneration Project. The condemned building had been earmarked for demolition by Nairobi City County. Two people were hospitalized and six others remained missing during rescue operations. The National Building Code 2024 introduces stringent regulations for new constructions, focusing on boundary walls, windows, and setbacks to ensure safety and orderly urban development.
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has opened party nominations for the upcoming Emurua Dikirr parliamentary by-election, along with two other ward seats. The party also announced the schedule for its nomination process for the Emurua Dikirr constituency and the Porro and Endo wards. Meanwhile, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has pledged to make twenty trips to Meru County for every single visit by opposition leaders, accusing them of inciting residents and spreading falsehoods. President William Ruto launched a series of development projects across Western Kenya during a five-day tour, emphasizing development-oriented politics.
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has successfully recovered Ksh10.9 million from a former Deputy Director of Health in Homa Bay County following an anti-corruption court ruling. The commission also secured court orders for the recovery of Sh10 million in salaries irregularly earned by a former county official. The Katiba Institute has filed a petition challenging President William Ruto's Ksh5 trillion National Infrastructure Fund (NIF), potentially halting its operationalization.
The Political Parties Dispute Tribunal will deliver a ruling on March 26 regarding the legality of the ODM's National Delegates Convention (NDC) and the sacking of its Secretary General Edwin Sifuna, adding to the party's turmoil on the eve of the convention. Nairobi ODM chairpersons have endorsed EALA MP Winnie Odinga for the deputy party leader position alongside Dr Oburu Oginga, signaling a potential unity move ahead of the NDC on March 27, 2026. A faction within the party is planning a parallel NDC on the same date, challenging the convention announced by another group, sparking a power struggle within the Orange Democratic Movement.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has ordered an immediate 48-hour action plan to address severe flooding, drainage issues, and damaged roads across the city following heavy rains. The Kenyan government has confirmed that UN-Habitat will provide support in responding to recent devastating flash floods that have impacted Nairobi, causing significant humanitarian and urban management challenges. The death toll from recent floods in Kenya has tragically risen to 66 as search and rescue operations continue, with four more bodies recovered on Sunday. Residents of Buruburu estate in Nairobi have been without a reliable water supply for the past two weeks due to recent floods. Heavy rainfall has also caused the Narok River to overflow, leading to significant flooding impacting the Lemurua Loitai area.
Kenya and Russia have reached an agreement to halt the recruitment of Kenyan citizens for military operations, as announced by Kenya's Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi during a joint press conference in Moscow on Monday, March 16. Kenyan citizens are no longer permitted to enlist in Russia's military operations following this agreement, with Prime Cabinet Secretary Mudavadi stating that support would be provided to Kenyans in Russia requiring assistance through legal channels. Kenya has dispatched a high-level delegation to Moscow in an urgent effort to repatriate Kenyan citizens reportedly caught up in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. African nations are adopting a cautious approach to the recruitment of their citizens by Russian networks for the war in Ukraine, balancing domestic pressure with foreign policy considerations.
President William Ruto has intervened in the significant governance and operational disputes plaguing Nairobi Hospital, with State House confirming the intervention following numerous complaints from stakeholders. The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has threatened to go on strike over the alleged unfair and mysterious arrests of officials linked to Nairobi Hospital. The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) is protesting the 'persecution' of doctors following the arrest and detention of Dr. Job Obwaka, 79, amid a leadership dispute at the hospital. Veteran obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr. Job Obwaka has spent his third night in police custody following his arrest on Friday, with KMPDU calling for his release citing concerns about potential misuse of state power.
President William Ruto has commenced a five-day development tour of Western Kenya, beginning with an inspection of infrastructure projects in Kakamega County. The President has launched major infrastructure projects in Busia County, including an Ksh860 million road and an Ksh130 million market. At the same time, Kenya's government has significantly reallocated funds within the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) budget, reducing spending on the existing Mombasa-Naivasha line to boost the delayed Malaba extension project.
A significant rift has emerged within Kenya's Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party, with a faction led by the party's Secretary General Edwin Sifuna announcing plans for a parallel National Delegate Convention tentatively scheduled for March 27, 2026. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna is currently facing political uncertainty following an apparent attempt by ODM to remove him from his position as Secretary General. His recent prominence has sparked discussions about his potential political future, with speculation about whether he might run alone in 2027 or create an alliance with other political leaders. The article also discusses the recurring issue of political parties in Kenya facing succession crises when their founders depart, prompting calls for leaders to plan for smooth transitions.
Some Jubilee Party aspirants in the Mt Kenya region have criticized former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i, accusing him of being controlled by Democracy for Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua. Some Jubilee leaders are questioning Matiang'i's political influence in the region. Meanwhile, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru claims Gachagua is sending emissaries to President William Ruto seeking a political deal ahead of the upcoming election.
President William Ruto has announced that starting next year, the private sector will fully fund and manage the WRC Safari Rally. This marks the final year of government funding for the event. Takamoto Katsuta secured his maiden WRC victory at the Safari Rally in Naivasha on Sunday, March 15, 2026. However, unlike many major sporting events, Katsuta will not receive a direct cash prize from the WRC organizers.
President William Ruto has pledged government support and relief efforts following the second wave of devastating floods to hit Nairobi and surrounding areas in less than two weeks. The heavy rains caused widespread disruptions on Saturday evening and into Sunday, flooding roads and estates across the city. The downpour overwhelmed drainage systems, leaving commuters stranded and several areas impassable. Second Lady Joyce Kindiki has urged Nairobi residents to proactively maintain clear drainage systems to avert potential disasters like floods. Additionally, the Government of Belarus has provided significant financial assistance amounting to 23 million shillings to Kenyans affected by the floods.
Former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju was forcefully evicted by police officers from his commercial property in Karen, Nairobi, on Saturday night. The eviction is reportedly linked to a legal dispute over the auctioning of his assets due to debt. Siaya Governor James Orengo has publicly supported Tuju, labelling him a victim of systemic injustice and ferocious capitalism in Kenya, amid the dispute over a substantial loan. Separately, Democratic Party (DP) Leader Justin Muturi has accused individuals linked to the current administration of orchestrating a land-grabbing scheme involving portions of the Del Monte land in Murang'a County.
United Democratic Alliance (UDA) grassroots elections held in 18 counties on Saturday, March 15, 2026, were characterized by low voter turnout and technical hitches with biometric systems in some areas. The upcoming 2027 Kenyan elections are set to feature a notable rise of political dynasties, with second and third-generation members of prominent political families vying for elective seats. President William Ruto effectively utilized the 'Hustlers versus Dynasties' slogan to win the 2022 Kenyan general election by positioning himself as a champion of ordinary citizens against established political families.
President William Ruto is accused of forging an "unholy trinity" with the legislature and the judiciary, following favorable court decisions that suggest a growing alliance between the arms of government. This has raised concerns over the perceived alignment between Kenya's three arms of government, with suggestions of a potential erosion of checks and balances. Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire sparked a political debate after confronting President William Ruto regarding the absence of the two-thirds gender rule in a key report. Separately, Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba, once a prominent critic of President William Ruto's administration, has seen her political stance evolve significantly.
The article suggests that Rigathi Gachagua, the former Deputy President, possesses a unique quality similar to President William Ruto that could significantly influence the selection of the United Opposition presidential flag bearer. Meanwhile, Jubilee's presidential candidate Fred Matiang'i is facing internal criticism from within his own party's leadership regarding his alliance with Gachagua. Divisions have also emerged within the Linda Mwananchi team regarding the strategy to challenge Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, with the team reportedly split on whether to unite under Gachagua or pursue an independent path.
The Court of Appeal in Kenya has granted a temporary reprieve to President William Ruto's 21 advisors, suspending a High Court ruling that declared their offices unconstitutional. The Court of Appeal has temporarily suspended a High Court ruling that declared President William Ruto's 21 advisers unconstitutional. Questions have mounted after this surprise court decision favoring Ruto, with the temporary suspension allowing advisors to remain in office pending appeal.
Kenya faces potential fuel rationing due to disruptions in the Middle East, with Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria warning of an impending oil shock impacting Africa most severely. At the same time, EPRA announced that fuel prices for the March-April cycle will remain unchanged, easing public anxiety. Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has also warned of an impending fuel price hike, alleging a secret government plot to increase prices despite current fuel stock being imported at lower costs.
Francis Atwoli has been re-elected as the Secretary General of the Central Organization of Trade Unions (Kenya) for an unprecedented sixth term, securing his leadership until 2031. Concerns are simultaneously being raised about press freedom in East Africa following the acquisition of Nation Media Group (NMG), a major media conglomerate, by politically connected billionaire Rostam Aziz. Meanwhile, the Court of Appeal of Kenya has granted a temporary reprieve to President William Ruto's 21 advisors, suspending a High Court ruling that declared their offices unconstitutional and allowing them to remain in office pending appeal.
Dubai's image of safety is being tested by recent drone and missile attacks linked to the Iran conflict, with some debris hitting the city, including near luxury hotels and the airport. The United States has temporarily eased sanctions on Russian oil to address global energy supply issues, a move met with strong criticism from European allies. A US judge has separately blocked an investigation into the Federal Reserve, ruling that the Department of Justice presented no evidence to justify its demands for information.
The Social Health Authority (SHA) has started disbursing Sh11.1 billion to hospitals across Kenya to settle approved claims under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), aiming to alleviate financial strain on healthcare providers. The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has decided to maintain current fuel pump prices for the upcoming month, despite a recent surge in global oil prices attributed to tensions in the Middle East involving Iran. Separately, KCB Group is targeting market entry into Ethiopia by the end of 2026 through the acquisition of a local bank, having finalized its shortlisting process and identified a potential target entity.
Oliver Solberg of Sweden holds a one‑second lead after Day 2 of the 2026 WRC Safari Rally in Naivasha. Toyota crews continue to dominate the top positions, with Sébastien Ogier closing in after Solberg suffered a tire puncture earlier in the day. Changing weather and muddy stages have made driving conditions particularly demanding. In a related development, Toyota Gazoo Racing driver Takamoto Katsuta described a double front puncture at Kedong' Two as the worst of his career at the Safari Rally. Meanwhile, the top three drivers are separated by just 12 seconds after stage nine, highlighting how closely contested the 2026 Safari Rally has become. Turning to the economic impact, the rally has brought significant activity to Nakuru County, with Naivasha experiencing a surge in business and tourism during the event.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a five-day weather advisory predicting moderate to heavy rains across several regions of the country this weekend, including the Central Highlands and Rift Valley. Kenya's flash flood death toll has tragically risen to 62, with Nairobi bearing the brunt of the devastation, recording the highest number of fatalities. The Ministry of Water, Irrigation, and Sanitation has issued a warning that the Ndakaini dam is nearing capacity and could spill within two weeks. The Ministry of Health has also issued a warning about increased risks of building collapses during the current March-April-May long rains.
Parliament has invited public comments on a Ksh316.87 billion supplementary budget that significantly increases government spending beyond initial approved estimates. The State Department of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises is simultaneously requesting Ksh 300 million to recover defaulted loans from the Hustler Fund. President William Ruto has approved the creation of the Railway Development Levy Fund, a new vehicle to accelerate infrastructure funding and securitisation. These developments come as President Ruto also handed over keys to 120 new homeowners at the Emgwen Boma Yangu Estate in Nandi County, marking a significant milestone for the Affordable Housing Programme.
The Thika Superhighway has been partially closed at the Globe Roundabout from March 12 to March 19 for essential bridge repair works, significantly impacting thousands of commuters using one of Nairobi's busiest routes. Traffic along Thika Road will experience significant disruptions due to this partial closure to facilitate the reinstatement of the Nairobi River bridge. A series of road accidents across Kenya has resulted in the deaths of 10 people, including a four-year-old pupil, renewing urgent calls for stricter road safety measures. The WRC Safari Rally Kenya 2026 has cancelled its third competitive stage due to poor road conditions caused by heavy rains.
The Cabinet Secretary for Health, Aden Duale, has welcomed newly recruited officers to the Social Health Authority, a move aimed at bolstering the implementation of Universal Health Coverage. The Social Health Authority is urging all Kenyan employees to verify timely remittance of their monthly health insurance deductions by employers, emphasizing that employers are legally required to submit these contributions by the ninth day of the following month. Senior Economic Advisor David Ndii asserts that the government-to-government petroleum deal was crucial in preventing the Kenyan Shilling from depreciating to Ksh180 against the U.S. Dollar.
President William Ruto has assented to three key Bills into law: the Miscellaneous Fees and Levies (Amendment) Act, 2026, the Coffee Act, 2023, and the Meteorology Act, 2023. The Kenyan Court of Appeal has temporarily suspended a High Court ruling that declared President William Ruto's 21 advisers unconstitutional. The High Court has dismissed a petition that sought to nullify the appointment of Noordin Haji as the Director-General of the National Intelligence Service, ruling that the President's appointment and parliamentary approval were constitutional.
ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna is challenging his removal from office before the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal, calling the decision unlawful. This comes after a win for Sifuna and Orengo as the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties rejected an application to reserve the name Linda Mwananchi Party of Kenya, preventing a potential political dispute over the slogan. Meanwhile, the Orange Democratic Movement's planned Special Delegates Convention on March 27, 2026, is facing a significant challenge. Additionally, an article explores the current state of ODM after the departure of its prominent leader Raila Odinga, focusing on his elder brother Oburu Oginga who has taken a more prominent role within the party.
