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 notable increase in its proposed dividend payout to shareholders, recommending a dividend of Sh2.50 per share compared to the previous year's payout. Separately, SACCOs in Kenya are urging Parliament to expedite the 2025 Amendment Bill, highlighting its importance for their sector. The World Bank has additionally 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. Muslims celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr at venues across Kenya: Muslim faithful congregated at the newly renovated Kamukunji Grounds for their Eid prayers, marking a significant occasion at the revitalized location. Muslims across Kenya gathered to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, with prayers held at various locations including the prominent Sir Ali Grounds in Ngara, Nairobi. Additionally, Muslims in Mombasa County gathered at Masjid Ummu Kulthum in Kizingo for special prayers marking the end of Ramadan. Religious leaders in Kilifi County are separately appealing to President William Ruto and Opposition leaders to cease using inflammatory language amidst ongoing political tensions. Trump Adds 6 African Countries on Visa Bond List: The Trump administration 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 is on high alert as Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya assured the nation of continuous vigilance amidst escalating global security risks, particularly those stemming from the US-Iran-Israel conflict and wider 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. 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. The warning covers many parts of Kenya and is expected to persist through next week. Meanwhile, the meteorological department is urging Kenyans to exercise caution as forecasts indicate the imminent arrival of heavy rainfall. This follows the department's earlier issuance of a heavy rainfall warning across Kenya, with authorities preparing for potential flooding and related impacts. President Ruto launches Sh900 million Kidundu Stadium in Vihiga: President William Ruto has officially launched the construction of the Sh900 million Kidundu Stadium in Vihiga County, with the Kenya Army tasked to oversee the project. The stadium is expected to be completed within the next 9 months. This development represents a dual gift to the Western Kenya region, focusing on development and economic empowerment. The project aims to strengthen the President's political base and foster growth in the area. Meanwhile, Nominated MP David Kuria has stated he does not directly support the president but argues that blame for economic challenges is not solely on one side, questioning the effectiveness of the "Maskio" initiative in boosting the economy. Kenya on Verge of Losing AFCON Hosting Rights: Kenya faces the risk of losing its hosting rights for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 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. This initiative was a key topic during a meeting between Kenya's Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and the UK's Minister of Border Security and Asylum Alex Norris in London. Kenya's Bomas International Convention Centre (BICC) project has reached 40% completion, showcasing significant progress in developing world-class MICE facilities to boost Kenya's tourism and economic transformation. 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. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki announced that a broad-based government, led by President Ruto, is driving massive nationwide development, ensuring no region is left behind. 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 (MAC) 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 (SHA) faces a critical sustainability crisis, with revenue streams failing to cover mounting operational costs, according to warnings from Members of Parliament.
