Kenya seeks Sh400M to repatriate 500,000 stranded citizens in Middle East: The Kenyan government is requesting Sh400 million to facilitate the repatriation of approximately 500,000 Kenyan citizens currently stranded in the Middle East. The Kenyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs made this appeal to the National Assembly Committee during their budget defense. In related judicial developments, the High Court has declared the rollout of the Social Health Authority (SHA) unconstitutional, impacting the implementation of key health financing reforms. A Kenyan official has also announced plans to overhaul the country's healthcare system to address current challenges and improve service delivery. Trump Adds 6 African Countries on List to Pay Ksh1.9 Million Visa Bond: The United States 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's Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya assured the nation of continuous vigilance amidst escalating global security risks stemming from US-Iran-Israel conflicts and 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. Kenya Eyes Export Boom as China Opens Duty-Free Market: 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. 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. Chinese Vice President Han Zheng is embarking on a diplomatic tour of Kenya, South Africa, and Seychelles from March 22 to 30, coinciding with the revival of the Standard Gauge Railway extension project and following recent debt restructuring. Co-op Bank posts KSh 40.3B pre-tax profit, 15.8% growth: Co-operative Bank of Kenya has announced a significant financial performance, reporting a KSh 40.3 billion pre-tax profit, representing a substantial 15.8% growth in profitability. The Cooperative Bank has also announced a significant increase in its proposed dividend payout to shareholders, recommending a dividend of Sh2.50 per share, a notable rise from the previous year's payout. Meanwhile, SACCOs in Kenya are urging Parliament to expedite the 2025 Amendment Bill, highlighting its importance for their sector. Additionally, the World Bank has banned PwC Kenya from participating in World Bank-funded projects for 21 months due to fraudulent activities stemming from an investigation into a past audit engagement. Kenya on Verge of Losing AFCON Hosting Rights: Kenya faces the risk of losing its hosting rights for the Africa Cup of Nations 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 UK's Minister of Border Security and Asylum Alex Norris in London. Kenya's Bomas International Convention Centre project has reached 40% completion, showcasing significant progress in developing world-class MICE facilities to boost Kenya's tourism and economic transformation. Nairobi Hospital dismisses collapse claims, says facility financially stable: 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 at The Nairobi Hospital has disowned five of its members who petitioned President William Ruto regarding management disputes, citing procedural breaches and misleading information. Kenya's Social Health Authority faces a critical sustainability crisis with revenue streams failing to cover mounting operational costs, according to warnings from Members of Parliament. KeNHA Warns of Blockage on Highway Linking Nairobi, Narok and Nakuru: The Kenya National Highways Authority 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 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. Meteorological Dept warns Kenyans: heavy rains start tonight: The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning of impending heavy rains expected to start tonight across the country, persisting through next week. The department is urging Kenyans to exercise caution as forecasts indicate the imminent arrival of heavy rainfall. In response, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has ordered the immediate demolition of all structures situated along river banks within the city, instructing residents occupying these at-risk areas to relocate. Separately, approximately 4,500 families in Turkana South and East have received essential food aid following a severe drought. President Ruto launches Sh900 million Kidundu Stadium in Vihiga: President William Ruto officially launched the construction of the Sh900 million Kidundu Stadium in Vihiga County, with the Kenya Army tasked to oversee the project expected to be completed within 9 months. This represents a dual gift to the Western Kenya region, focusing on development and economic empowerment as a strategic move to strengthen his political base. Meanwhile, leaders from the Jubilee Party have criticized President William Ruto for his harsh remarks targeting his political opponents during a meeting with party members in Nyansiongo. A section of Kenya's opposition leaders has also criticized Ruto, stating he lacks moral authority to label others as murderers without presenting evidence in court. Several Nairobi leaders have publicly defended President Ruto following the public exchange with the opposition. Muslims celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr at venues across Kenya: Muslims across Kenya gathered to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan. The faithful congregated at the newly renovated Kamukunji Grounds for their Eid prayers, marking a significant occasion at the revitalized location. In Mombasa County, Muslims attended special prayers at Masjid Ummu Kulthum in Kizingo. Additionally, prayers were held at the prominent Sir Ali Grounds in Ngara, Nairobi. Meanwhile, religious leaders in Kilifi County are appealing to President William Ruto and Opposition leaders to cease using inflammatory language amidst ongoing political tensions.
