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2 storiesPresident Ruto announced the SGR extension from Naivasha to Kampala and beyond will begin in early 2026, boosting regional trade. Meanwhile, Dubai approved its largest-ever budget for 2026-2028.
The government plans to close 742 companies amid scrutiny over a KSh 4 billion maize subsidy without parliamentary approval and the cancellation of a KSh 7.76 billion Nairobi road project by the US. Former CJ Maraga criticized President Ruto's economic record. Governor Sakaja demands control of Nairobi National Park and an end to electricity levies for city residents. Makongeni residents received a reprieve with a court halting evictions as the LSK challenges government demolitions. Health PS urged vigilance due to increased disease samples.
The Kenyan government is under scrutiny for spending Ksh4 billion on a maize flour subsidy program in FY 2022/23 without parliamentary approval, an action raising concerns about the misuse of public funds. In addition, former Chief Justice David Maraga strongly criticized President William Ruto's economic management, accusing him of escalating the national debt without tangible benefits for Kenyans. Mumias East MP Peter Salasya also launched an attack on President Ruto, accusing him of paralyzing county governments by withholding funds. Salasya claims the government's rollout of the Electronic Government Procurement (EGP) system has halted essential services.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja informed the Senate Committee on Devolution that City Hall's inherited pending bills have decreased by Sh32 billion over three years, from Sh118 billion to Sh86 billion. He also highlighted significant improvements in own-source revenue collection. In other matters, Sakaja has called for an immediate end to the Rural Electrification levy on city residents, arguing it hinders urban development and that funds should be redirected to improve street lighting in Nairobi. The governor is also demanding that the national government hand over control and revenue collection of the Nairobi National Park to Nairobi County, citing precedents set with other counties.
A campaign rally in Narok led by Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua was disrupted by police who fired teargas. On November 24, chaos erupted as Gachagua, wearing a helmet, entered Narok town before officers dispersed the crowd. Ahead of the Mbeere North by-election on Thursday, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has pledged heightened security and vowed firm action against any attempts to disrupt the polls. In relation to a separate election, Gachagua has demanded the immediate removal of all presiding officers for Thursday’s Magarini Constituency by-election, accusing IEBC Vice Chairperson Fahima Araphat Abdallah of interference. The upcoming by-elections also prompted the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) to warn journalists against publishing unverified opinion polls. For the Mbeere North race, the UDA candidate Leo Wa Muthende was notably absent from an aspirants' debate on November 23.
President William Ruto has traveled to Luanda, Angola, to attend the 7th African Union–European Union Summit and the Second Session of the Ad Hoc Oversight Committee on African Union Institutional Reform. The president departed for Angola hours after a meeting with Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni. His visit to Angola will focus on reviewing cooperation and addressing funding gaps. Separately, Kenya has secured duty-free access for its agricultural produce and beef to the Malaysian market. This followed an agreement between President Ruto and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The agreement was part of a landmark 60-year partnership deal forged on Monday, January 24, 2025, which eliminates trade barriers and enhances cooperation across multiple sectors.
The World Bank has warned that Kenya's increasing domestic borrowing is significantly limiting credit access for the private sector, which could hinder investment and job creation. Amid this warning, Consolidated Bank Group reported a notable turnaround, achieving a Sh94.7 million pre-tax profit in the nine months to September 30, 2025. This represents a 177 percent rebound from a loss in the previous year. In a separate financial matter, a third suspect, Stephen Juma Ndeda, has been charged in Kenya over a money-laundering scheme exceeding Sh103 million. The case involves an American investor allegedly defrauded while seeking a loan. In response to the economic climate, the 5th Abojani Economic Empowerment Conference urged Kenyans to adopt an "ownership economy" by investing in productive assets for long-term wealth.
Amazon has rebranded its satellite internet initiative as Amazon Leo, launching a new hardware lineup to compete with Starlink. Its flagship Leo Ultra antenna emphasizes enterprise reliability and offers faster upload speeds. In a separate update, Zoho launched a significant upgrade to its Zoho One platform, introducing a redesigned interface and expanded AI capabilities. The changes are meant to streamline business operations. Similarly, Qlik has introduced new features to its Qlik Talend Cloud platform. The additions are aimed at improving data quality and integration through AI and enhanced API capabilities, making trusted data more accessible for businesses.
Malaysia's Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, conducted an official visit to Kenya, where he received full military honors at State House. During the visit, Kenya and Malaysia signed several trade agreements, including a four-year trade pact and another to facilitate the export of Kenyan agricultural produce. The two nations are joining forces to enhance trade and boost their tourism sectors. President William Ruto announced that Kenya will follow the economic models of Malaysia to boost its economy. Prime Minister Ibrahim praised President Ruto's affordable housing program, highlighting it as an example of leadership dedicated to uplifting vulnerable communities.
The death toll from a road accident in Ngoluni, Makueni County, has risen to seven people. The incident occurred on Friday night into Saturday morning in Tawa, Makueni County. The toll tragically increased after an eight-year-old boy succumbed to his injuries. One family lost four relatives in the tragic road accident.
President Ruto announced the SGR extension from Naivasha to Kampala and beyond will begin in early 2026, boosting regional trade. Meanwhile, Dubai approved its largest-ever budget for 2026-2028.
Larry Madowo defends his CNN exposé on Tanzanian post-election violence. Pastor Kanyari vows lifestyle change, concedes custody of children to Betty Bayo's widower, and apologises at her send-off, while Betty Kyallo hints at family plans with Charlie Jones. Lillian Ng'ang'a seeks remote work, and Gloria Ntazola causes a stir with swollen lips after Lagos cosmetic procedures.
Upcoming by-elections in Western Kenya are seen as crucial tests for President Ruto's allies and rivals ahead of 2027, with shifting loyalties and increased political tensions. Meanwhile, Makadara MP George Aladwa is advocating for Winnie Odinga's inclusion in ODM's top leadership amid party future concerns.
MP Ndindi Nyoro states Talanta Stadium could cost 145 billion Kenyan Shillings. Kisumu and Migori counties tackle Gender-Based Violence in sports. Kenyan athlete James Musembi wins gold at the Deaflympics. Police lead the National Boxing League. Nairobi Thunder play in BAL qualifiers. Kenya Cup rugby kicks off, and Nairobi hosts a major fight night.
The Government plans to close 742 companies, risking many jobs. This comes as the government faces scrutiny over a 4 billion Kenyan Shillings maize subsidy without parliamentary approval, and a 7.76 billion Kenyan Shillings Nairobi road project was canceled by the US. Former CJ Maraga criticized President Ruto's economic record, linking it to rising debt. Meanwhile, Governor Sakaja demands control of Nairobi National Park and an end to the electricity levy for city residents. Makongeni residents received a reprieve as a court halted evictions while LSK challenges government demolitions. Health PS urged vigilance due to increased disease samples.
