The newly launched Social Health Authority (SHA) faces fraud concerns even as the government aims to register 30 million Kenyans by December and plans free ambulance services. This comes as three firms reportedly earn over 3 million Kenyan Shillings daily from the eCitizen platform. In economic news, Kenya is set to sign a power purchase agreement with Ethiopia, while the World Bank warns of increasing non-performing loans in local banks. The KRA clarified its position on taxing undocumented bank deposits, and a new bill seeks special parliamentary seats to enforce the two-thirds gender rule. Lastly, the government plans to distribute subsidized gas cylinders and has urged pension schemes to pay levies.
The National Police Service Commission (NPSC) has warned the public against fake online application links related to its recruitment of 10,000 police constables. Separately, the Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA) issued a stern warning to retirement scheme providers, urging them to pay the retirement benefits levy by the October 31 deadline to avoid substantial fines. The RBA stated that non-compliance could lead to a five per cent monthly penalty on outstanding amounts. In the agricultural sector, authorities in Busia County have warned farmers to be vigilant after seizing 160 bags of fake bean seeds and unmarked bags of fake cotton seeds in a raid. This bust followed a tip-off regarding the distribution of counterfeit seeds in the region.
The Social Health Authority (SHA) is set to introduce free ambulance services across Kenya, with President William Ruto expected to launch the initiative by the end of September. This service aims to provide crucial emergency care access to all citizens. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki announced that over 26 million Kenyans have already registered for the SHA medical cover, with the government targeting 30 million enrollments by December and full coverage by 2027. Despite this progress, Medical Services Principal Secretary Ouma Oluga revealed that the new authority is grappling with widespread fraud less than a year after it began processing claims. PS Oluga admitted that unscrupulous hospitals, some linked to influential figures, have received millions of shillings for questionable services, causing public outrage.
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has clarified that a recent tribunal ruling does not grant it blanket powers to tax all bank deposits. Instead, the ruling affects only deposits that lack proper documentation, which are deemed taxable income under the Income Tax Act. On a broader economic note, the World Bank expressed concern over increasing non-performing loans in Kenya's banking sector, warning they threaten to cause losses for local banks and erode capital buffers. Meanwhile, Immigration Principal Secretary Belio Kipsang revealed that three technology firms maintaining the eCitizen platform earn over Ksh3 million daily. This disclosure comes amidst criticism over a Ksh50 convenience fee which an audit report deemed unlawfully imposed.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has revealed new details in the fatal shooting of Kennedy Ojuma and Stephen Mwendwa by an off-duty DCI officer in Makongeni, Thika. The incident reportedly occurred after a minor traffic accident. In a separate event in Kakamega County, police have arrested ten suspects following a violent attack on Emakale Police Post, where a gang stormed the station and raided an officer's house. Meanwhile, in Nairobi, the County Government has launched a major crackdown on illegal power connections within the CBD. An unauthorized electricity distribution hub was dismantled near the National Archives, as these setups are believed to enable criminal gangs and compromise security infrastructure.
Standard Chartered Kenya Limited has begun the process to pay approximately Sh7 billion to over 600 former employees following a Supreme Court loss related to a pension miscalculation. The bank is reassuring markets that it is “Adequately Capitalised” to meet the obligations, which are estimated at over KSh 7 billion and conclude a two-decade legal battle. In broader financial sector news, Kenya’s SACCO sector surpassed KSh 1 trillion in combined assets by the end of 2024. This growth, however, is accompanied by a rise in non-performing loans and governance concerns. Separately, I&M Bank has expanded its network by opening two new branches in Kapsabet, Nandi County, and Nyali, Mombasa County, increasing its national footprint to 65 outlets across 24 counties.
Three years into President William Ruto's administration, many Kenyans continue to struggle with the high cost of living and insufficient incomes. The Kenya Kwanza administration's economic performance has a mixed scorecard, with high food costs and persistent poverty. However, President Ruto's promise on unga prices has resulted in a Ksh 40-60 drop in the cost of maize flour. Despite this reduction, Kenyans are demanding further cuts in commodity prices, particularly for maize flour. Prices of many essential goods remained high in 2022, though some have since decreased.
Authorities are taking action regarding boda boda operators. Naibu Kindiki issued a stern warning to operators about violence and torching vehicles after accidents. This follows an outcry from transport vehicle owners demanding police action against operators they accuse of thuggish behavior and criminality. In one incident, a DCI officer was detained for three days after shooting at boda boda operators. Additionally, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has launched an investigation into the fatal shooting of two boda boda riders in Makongeni and plans to oversee the autopsy.
Comedian Mulamwah mocked his baby mama Ruth K on social media, implying she is now a single mother after she commented on his new partner. Separately, content creator Mungai Eve issued a stern warning to an unnamed man, stating her silence should not be mistaken for weakness and hinting she has “receipts” to expose the truth. Speculation has linked this warning to her former boyfriend, Director Trevor. In another story, Tanzanian model Paula Kajala revealed the reasons for her split from singer Rayvanny. Kajala cited his inconsistency and lack of respect for women's emotions as the primary cause. She explained that his frequent changes in partners made a stable relationship impossible.
Microfinance banks face declining fortunes with rising bad loans. Meanwhile, the insurance sector saw a drop in fraud and quadrupled profits. Over 680,000 tea farmers await KTDA bonus payouts. A Thika factory innovates by turning waste into fuel.
Kelvin Kinuthia's sex-change journey and plans for a uterus transplant spark national debate. Musician Bahati defends his family's opulent lifestyle. Mungai Eve warns an unnamed man, while Paula Kajala reveals her breakup with Rayvanny.
Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro criticises government over borrowing 3.4 billion shillings daily amid reports of President Ruto's declining public confidence. Meanwhile, UDA and ODM plan joint dominance in November by-elections as the opposition leadership faces internal rifts and vows to combat State propaganda.
Harambee Stars host Seychelles in a World Cup qualifier while Kenyan boxers exude confidence ahead of the Africa Zone Three Championships. Peter Mwangi and Fridah Ndinda won the StanChart marathon warm-up, and Baldev Chager dominated the Shell Autocross Championship.
Safaricom hosted its first gaming conference, 'Level Up Africa,' in Nairobi, signaling its focus on the continent's gaming sector. AI Kenya is boosting businesses' AI readiness, while new OPPO phones are expected locally. Verto also launched a cross-border payments suite.
The Social Health Authority (SHA) faces widespread fraud concerns just months after launching, even as the government targets registering 30 million Kenyans by December and plans free ambulance services. Meanwhile, three firms reportedly earn over 3 million Kenyan Shillings daily from the eCitizen platform. Kenya is also ready to sign a power purchase agreement with Ethiopia to enhance energy supply. The World Bank warns of increasing non-performing loans in Kenyan banks. The KRA clarified its stance on taxing undocumented bank deposits, while a new bill seeks to create special parliamentary seats to enforce the two-thirds gender rule. The government also plans to distribute subsidized gas cylinders and has urged pension schemes to pay levies.
