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2 storiesUAE expands East African investment in trade, infrastructure, and energy. Meanwhile, Kenyan agri-tech firm UjuziKilimo launched SoilPal Pro, a smartphone-based soil testing solution for farmers.
Narok County faces a dusk-to-dawn curfew following tribal clashes, while 13 areas in Marsabit are declared disturbed for another 30 days. The NTSA warns against speed limiter tampering and drunk driving this festive season. Meanwhile, IEBC has set February 2026 for by-elections in one parliamentary and three ward seats. Chaos also erupted at St. Mary's Hospital, Lang'ata, after it was reportedly stormed by goons. ODM’s Gladys Wanga clarified the party's cooperation with UDA is governed by a written agreement. Separately, locals in Lamu and Garissa protested President Ruto's Affordable Housing Projects citing environmental and displacement concerns.
The Kenyan government imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Trans Mara East and South in Narok County after violent tribal clashes resulted in at least seven deaths and the torching of over 120 houses. In another security measure, the Ministry of Interior extended the designation of 13 areas in Marsabit County as "security-disturbed and dangerous" for an additional 30 days, effective December 23, 2025. Concurrently, Kenya's international military engagements continue, with Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya visiting Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops in Somalia on December 20. She praised their commitment to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission (AUSSOM) and affirmed that their welfare is a top priority. This is happening as the United States provided an update on the Haiti Gang Suppression Force, noting that Kenya recently deployed an additional 230 specialised officers to the country.
President William Ruto revised the award categories for 10 recipients of the Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (C.B.S.), which were initially conferred during Jamhuri Day celebrations. The changes were announced in a gazette notice on Friday, December 19, reassigning the individuals to other honors. Meanwhile, the President's Affordable Housing Projects faced opposition on December 20, as residents in Lamu and Garissa Counties held protests citing environmental damage, potential displacement, and a lack of consultation. In the political sphere, Gladys Wanga, Chairperson of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), clarified the party's ongoing cooperation with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA). She stated the arrangement is based on a written agreement but warned it is conditional on the respect of ODM’s interests and strongholds. Wanga's clarification comes amid internal party pressure concerning the 2027 presidential race.
Chinese tech giant Huawei and Kenya’s Safaricom have launched a low-cost internet service specifically for residents of Kenya’s Affordable Housing Program. In a separate development, Kenyan agri-tech firm UjuziKilimo has introduced SoilPal Pro, a new smartphone-based soil testing solution. This device aims to significantly reduce the cost and time of soil analysis for farmers by providing instant, laboratory-grade soil health insights. Meanwhile, the Governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, stated that the widespread adoption of artificial intelligence is likely to displace jobs. He emphasized the necessity for Kenya to invest in training and education to prepare its workforce for this technological shift.
Several technology and startup development initiatives are taking place across Africa. In Kenya, two hundred and fifty young people in Dagoretti North graduated from Huawei’s DigiTruck Digital Skills Programme, an initiative aimed at boosting youth employability and innovation. Qualcomm also successfully concluded its third annual Make in Africa (QMIA) Startup Mentorship Program with a virtual finale, reinforcing its commitment to fostering innovation on the continent. In Rwanda, fintech startup Kayko has successfully raised $1.2 million in a seed funding round. This capital will help Kayko enhance access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Additionally, the United Arab Emirates' recently announced US$1 billion AI for Development initiative could significantly aid Kenya's National AI Strategy by providing crucial funding and expertise.
UAE expands East African investment in trade, infrastructure, and energy. Meanwhile, Kenyan agri-tech firm UjuziKilimo launched SoilPal Pro, a smartphone-based soil testing solution for farmers.
TIFA survey shows only 17% of Kenyans believe the country is on the right track under Ruto. Mulamwah seeks reconciliation with Ruth K after reuniting with Carol Sonnie. Radio 47 presenter sparks debate with "Disemba" remarks. Gody Tennor addresses Australia theft claims, citing a "misunderstanding."
President Ruto assented to eight Bills, sparking controversy as Kenyans learned of Raila Odinga's passing. Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka accused Ruto of misrepresenting his service record. DP Gachagua is moving to expel Senator Mundigi for defying UDA loyalty. IEBC has set February 26, 2026, for by-elections in Isiolo South and three MCA wards in Isiolo, Embu, and Kakamega.
Ugandan teams join Kenya's Enterprise Cup rugby. Police lead the Premier League after rivals draw. Kenyan boxers and swimmers show promise internationally. Pipeline and Postbank win KVF openers, while Trinity Starlets eye an extended unbeaten run.
Kenya's AI strategy could get a boost from the UAE's 1 billion dollar AI fund. Qualcomm concluded its Make in Africa startup program, fostering innovation. Vivo launched its X300 Pro in Kenya for 169,999 Kenyan Shillings, offering 7 years of security updates to match Google and Samsung.
A dusk-to-dawn curfew is imposed in sections of Narok County following tribal clashes. Separately, 13 areas in Marsabit County are declared disturbed for another 30 days. NTSA issues warnings against speed limiter tampering and drunk driving during the festive season. IEBC schedules by-elections for one parliamentary and three ward seats in February 2026. Chaos erupted at St Mary's Hospital, Lang'ata, after alleged goons stormed the facility. ODM's Gladys Wanga clarifies the party's cooperation with UDA is governed by a written agreement. Locals in Lamu and Garissa protest President Ruto's Affordable Housing Projects due to environmental and displacement concerns. In sports, Kenyan runner Emmanuel Kiprop Kipruto is suspended by World Athletics. Defence CS Soipan Tuya visited KDF troops in Somalia. President Ruto reassigns award categories for 10 CBS awardees.
The High Court has reversed restrictions previously placed on Marie Stopes Kenya, allowing the organization to resume offering abortion services and post-abortion care nationwide. Separately, services at St. Mary's Hospital have been suspended following an ownership dispute, which has halted essential services at the facility. In Kakamega, blood donation efforts are facing challenges due to a low turnout of Gen Z youth. This has highlighted the ongoing need for contributions to address blood shortages in the region.
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) and local clergy are urging for peace and an end to conflicts along the shared border of Turkana and West Pokot counties. In Ruiru, the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) has apprehended a suspect for possessing cookies laced with bhang. Meanwhile, the family of Meshack Mainye, a 67-year-old man from Nyamira County found buried in a shallow grave, is demanding the re-arrest and charging of the main suspect.
Kenyan universities are expressing significant concerns regarding the recently introduced higher education funding model, which is sparking alarm across the institutions. Concurrently, Kenyan Parents are reportedly facing significant challenges in securing school placements for their children transitioning to Grade 10, causing distress for many families. In other sector news, the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) plans to expand its branch official positions. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the representation of youth and women within the union's leadership structure.
