business
3 storiesCOMESA is investigating Meta over WhatsApp AI. Locally, Gulf Energy plans its South Lokichar oil project rollout by December 2026.
Audits have uncovered major financial woes, including an 11 billion shillings Talanta Stadium scandal and a 20 billion shillings land grab at public universities. Taxpayers are also bearing a 175 million shillings cost from delays in former President Kenyatta's judicial appointments. Three Garissa County officials face charges for alleged 51 million shillings fraud, while EACC recovered 291 million shillings worth of Kenya Railways land in Mombasa. Separately, DCI is investigating claims of arming supporters at a rally in Kakamega where a death occurred. Floods have destroyed the Mogor Bridge in Kilgoris, disrupting motorists. On a positive note, Kenyan police thwarted a cross-border abduction of a Tanzanian activist, and a partnership with Japan aims to improve road safety via a digitized accident reporting system.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, the ODM Secretary General, is building a new political movement called Linda Mwananchi ahead of the 2027 General Election. Sifuna has been holding rallies alongside Embakasi East MP Babu Owino that attract younger Kenyans and challenge the status quo. He met recently with Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya, sparking excitement in Western Kenya. Political commentators in the region see echoes of the historic Muliro-Kijana political partnership. Some articles reference the Moses-Joshua biblical story when discussing whether Sifuna can lead Kenyans after Raila Odinga's era.
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) faces a leadership vacuum after Raila Odinga's passing, raising succession questions. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna accuses the Kenya Airports Authority and airlines of leaking his flight details. Allies of Deputy President Kithure Kindiki warn ODM's Oburu Oginga about his interest in the Deputy President's seat for 2027.
COMESA is investigating Meta over WhatsApp AI. Locally, Gulf Energy plans its South Lokichar oil project rollout by December 2026.
Interpol nabs 27 Kenyans in Sh5.8 billion cybercrime bust. Sammy Kioko claims Machakos officials won't pay Sh19m debt. Pastor Kanyari denies romance with Marion. IShowSpeed praises Kenya, promises return.
Governors boycott Senate over Ksh 534 billion funding, risking approval. Opposition warns President Ruto against alleged 2027 election rigging. A clash over the DP position threatens Ruto's coalition, with CS Ruku telling Oburu Odinga to back off. ODM faces a leadership vacuum post-Raila Odinga.
Audits reveal significant financial irregularities, including an Sh11 billion Talanta Stadium scandal and a Sh20 billion land grab at public universities. Taxpayers are footing a Sh175 million bill due to former President Kenyatta's judicial appointment delays. Three Garissa County officials were arrested for alleged Sh51 million fraud, while EACC recovered Sh291 million worth of Kenya Railways land in Mombasa. Concerns over public order arise as DCI investigates alleged arming of supporters during a fatal 'Linda Mwananchi' rally in Kakamega. Meanwhile, Kilgoris motorists faced disruption after floods destroyed the Mogor Bridge. In a positive development, Kenyan police foiled a cross-border abduction of a Tanzanian activist and are partnering with Japan to enhance road safety through a digitized accident reporting system.
Kenyan CEOs express optimism for 2026 business growth driven by a stable economy and declining interest rates. Kenya's forex reserves are expected to rise from the government's partial sale of its stake in Safaricom and proceeds from a recent Eurobond issuance. A Central Bank of Kenya survey reveals that Kenyan firms were negatively impacted by the US 10 percent global tariff introduced last year.
A severe drought is causing widespread devastation across Kenya. Thousands of livestock have perished, triggering a food insecurity emergency for residents. The Kitui county government is shifting focus to livestock and apiculture (beekeeping) to enhance food security following widespread crop failures. The Kenya Development Corporation (KDC) has launched a Sh70 million financing initiative aimed at safeguarding communities in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) regions from drought impacts. Residents of Mwingi Central are turning to traditional knowledge for survival amidst the severe drought. Kenya's largest water tower, the Mau Forest Complex, is facing extinction of vital springs due to mounting pressure, with community-led efforts underway to restore these critical water sources.
Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has strongly refuted allegations that he orchestrated the teargassing incident during a rally in Kakamega. In Trans Nzoia, officials are allegedly being exploited for political purposes to disrupt opposition gatherings, sparking political tensions. Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has strongly rebuked the opposition over alleged self-orchestrated tear gas attacks, accusing them of attempting to mislead the public. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen issued a stern warning to politicians, cautioning them against orchestrating chaos at rallies and subsequently blaming the police. CS Murkomen stated that some politicians are orchestrating violence and subsequently blaming the police to gain public sympathy.
The Ministry of Health has inked a crucial service level agreement with Nakuru, Garissa, and Mombasa counties. Murang'a County is currently leading in registrations for the Social Health Authority (SHA), enabling hundreds of residents to access comprehensive health coverage. The Ministry of Health has launched a maternal death surveillance and response committee following an alarming rise in maternal mortality. The Ministry of Health has signed an agreement with three counties to enhance cancer treatment services.
A tragic road accident in Makueni has resulted in the deaths of 7 people, sending shockwaves through the region. Two drivers were killed after a lorry and a trailer collided along the Southern Bypass in Langata. Residents of Lolgorien–Kilgoris are facing significant transportation challenges after a crucial bridge was swept away. Approximately 500 residents who were displaced by the rising waters of Lake Nakuru are urging the government to expedite their compensation process.
The 57th Magical Kenya Open concluded at the Karen Country Club with South African golfer Casey Jarvis winning Sh60 million after an impressive four-day performance. Junior golfers gained valuable experience competing against world-class professionals in the Absa 'Beat the Pro' Challenge, though no juniors won top prizes. Judith Attorney emerged the overall winner at the February Mug of the Month tournament held at Nyanza Golf Club on February 22, 2025, showcasing exceptional performance alongside other notable players.
