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HomeDaily NewsThursday, March 26, 2026
Kenya News - Thursday, March 26, 2026
Daily Summary

Kenya News - Thursday, March 26, 2026

Key developments this week include progress on security reforms, with the rollout of police body cameras and the arrest of KDF officers in a botched robbery plot. Meanwhile, motorists express concern over the Naivasha-Malaba SGR extension potentially impacting road cargo. President Ruto announced new investment deals at the Kenya International Investment Conference. The KCAA acknowledged regulatory lapses at Wilson Airport following a crash-landing. In finance, CS Mbadi ruled out new taxes in the Finance Bill 2026, focusing on KRA efficiency and using the Petroleum Development Levy to stabilize fuel prices. The EACC recovered Ksh13 million in a Nairobi cemetery land scandal, while investigations continue into alleged mismanagement of the eCitizen platform. Separately, Governor Waiguru urged the government to clear Sh1.06 billion in coffee debt, and CS Wandayi warned oil companies against fuel hoarding amid shortages. In judicial news, the Kisumu High Court ordered police to pay Sh38.6 million to protest victims.

57 stories across 16 topics
Updated 7:01 PM

Top Stories Today

Govt Declares Parts of Laikipia, Meru and Isiolo Security-Disturbed in Escalated Anti-Banditry Operation
Murkomen Declares Parts of Three Counties as Disturbed & Dangerous Days After KDF Deployment
State touts gains in security reforms
Interior Ministry Gives Update on Rollout of Police Body Cameras
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Government Declares Parts of Laikipia, Meru, Isiolo Security-Disturbed - March 2026

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has officially declared parts of Laikipia, Meru, and Isiolo counties as security-disturbed and dangerous areas, effective March 26, 2026, for 30 days. This escalated anti-banditry operation follows the government's announcement of significant progress in security sector reforms, with approximately 55% of planned reforms implemented. The National Police Service is also set to roll out body cameras for officers soon as part of a broader strategy to enhance accountability and integrate technology into security operations.

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State Under Probe Over Alleged Missing Ksh9.4 Billion on eCitizen
Audit reveals financial irregularity and data breach in e-Citizen
E-Citizen funds scandal raises alarm over public money control
EACC Recovers Ksh 13M Linked to Nairobi Cemetery Land Scandal
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Treasury Unveils Key Features of Ksh 389B Nairobi-Mombasa Highway Expansion
Motorists Raise Job Loss Fears Over Ksh500 Billion Naivasha-Malaba SGR Extension
President Ruto Unveils $2.9bn Investment Deals, 63,000 Jobs in Kenya
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Treasury Confirms Ksh389B Nairobi-Mombasa Expressway as Toll Road - March 2026

CS Mbadi Explains Increasing Taxes in Finance Bill 2026
Mbadi Reveals Plans for Cheaper Fuel Amid Global Crisis
Vivo Energy Kenya Cites High Demand for Temporary Fuel Shortages at Shell Stations
President Ruto Assures Kenyans of Fuel Stability Amid Middle East Crisis
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More News Topics

Blow to both Sifuna, Linda Ground faction as tribunal rules on SG ouster
Wanga disowns Sifuna ahead of tribunal ruling
ODM wrangles: Linda Mwananchi faction vows to hold parallel meeting
ODM rival factions vow to hold parallel meetings tomorrow
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politics7

Tribunal Rules Sifuna Retains ODM Secretary General Position - March 2026

The Political Parties Disputes Tribunal ruled that Edwin Sifuna retains his position as ODM Secretary General, dismissing cases attempting to block his removal. The tribunal directed the ODM party to utilize its internal dispute resolution mechanisms before any further action. Orange Democratic Movement National Chairperson Gladys Wanga had previously disowned Sifuna ahead of the ruling. Tensions within the party remain high as two rival factions prepare to hold parallel National Delegates Conference meetings at Jamhuri Grounds, highlighting a deep rift in the party's leadership.

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"We are coming for you," CS Opiyo Wandayi warns oil marketing companies hoarding fuel
Warning issued to firms hoarding fuel for profit
Shell brand owner attributes temporary fuel shortage to stock-outs
Exporters warn of slowed shipments and rising costs amid Iran-Israel crisis
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Prepare for turbulence – how a prolonged Middle East conflict could reshape how we fly
S. Korea to expand fuel tax cuts amid Middle East conflict
Skyward Airlines to hike ticket prices over rising fuel costs
OECD sees global growth at 2.9pc in 2026 amid Middle East tensions
business4
African states urged to tighten controls to curb Sh11.7trn illicit flows
Nigeria’s reform momentum offers signal—and lessons—for Kenya’s investment case
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African States Urged to Tighten Controls to Curb Sh11.7trn Illicit Flows - March 2026

African governments are urged to enhance financial oversight and transparency to combat a staggering Sh11.7 trillion ($90 billion) annually in illicit financial flows (IFFs) draining the continent. Nigeria's recent reform efforts aimed at global investor confidence are influencing how African markets, including Kenya's, are perceived internationally. Traders are rushing to complete transactions on the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) cargo clearance system ahead of a scheduled weekend shutdown for maintenance, following a similar outage last month that caused significant disruptions at the Mombasa port.

"We are coming for you," CS Opiyo Wandayi warns oil marketing companies hoarding fuel
Warning issued to firms hoarding fuel for profit
Exporters warn of slowed shipments and rising costs amid Iran-Israel crisis
Ruto outlines measures to shield Kenya from Middle East crisis shocks
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Kirinyaga governor urges government to clear Sh1.06 billion debt for 14 coffee cooperatives
Governor Waiguru urges national government to fast-track waiver of Sh1.06bn coffee debts
Gavana Waiguru ataka msamaha wa madeni
Ruto Hosts China’s Vice President Han Zheng at State House
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Kisumu High Court orders police to pay 38.6M shillings to protest victims
Mahakama ya Kisumu iliamrisha fidia ya milioni Ksh. 38.6 kwa waliodhulumiwa kwenye maandamano 2023
Photos and videos place police officer at Rex Masai protest shooting
Ushahidi wa kisayansi wamweka afisa wa polisi eneo la tukio la mauaji ya Rex Masai
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Nurturing conservationists : Moruri was inspired by DR Isaac Kalua
Nurturing conservationists: Green with Baraka | What were you doing at 14 years?
Pokot Magharibi: Zaidi ya maboma 10,000 kunufaika na mradi wa maji ili kuzuia mimba za mapema
Viongozi wa kidini Ukambani wasema Wakenya wana kasumba mbaya ya kuwachagua viongozi
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News by Category

business

16 stories

CS Opiyo Wandayi Warns Oil Marketing Companies Hoarding Fuel: Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has issued a stern warning to oil marketing companies accused of hoarding fuel, stating "We are coming for you" amidst a worsening fuel crisis impacting Kenyans. The Ministry of Energy and Petroleum has also issued directives warning companies suspected of hoarding fuel for speculative profit, citing concerns of artificial shortages and inflated prices. Separately, Vivo Energy Kenya, operator of Shell stations, attributed temporary fuel stock-outs to unexpectedly high customer demand coinciding with rising global fuel prices. Skyward Airlines announced it will increase ticket prices starting April 1, 2026, implementing a fuel surcharge to address higher operating expenses. Additionally, COFEK is demanding suspension of new levies on fuel and LPG, arguing they were introduced without public participation. Prepare for Turbulence: Prolonged Middle East Conflict Reshapes Air Travel: A prolonged conflict in the Middle East has significantly disrupted global air travel, impacting major Gulf aviation hubs like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha, threatening the successful "Gulf model" of aviation which has made long-distance travel more affordable. South Korea is expanding fuel tax cuts to ease financial pressure on citizens amidst the ongoing Middle East conflict. The OECD projects global economic growth to slow to 2.9 percent in 2026, citing Middle East tensions as a significant risk factor. Meanwhile, India's fertiliser supplies are under strain due to shipping route disruptions caused by the war, raising concerns about potential impacts on farm produce and food prices. President William Ruto assured Kenyans that measures are in place to prevent fuel and commodity shortages amidst the crisis. African States Urged to Tighten Controls to Curb Sh11.7trn Illicit Flows: African governments are urged to enhance financial oversight and transparency to combat a staggering Sh11.7 trillion ($90 billion) annually in illicit financial flows draining the continent. This call comes as Nigeria's reform efforts aimed at global investor confidence are influencing how African markets, including Kenya's, are perceived internationally. Meanwhile, traders are rushing to complete transactions on the Kenya Revenue Authority cargo clearance system ahead of a scheduled weekend shutdown, following a similar outage last month that caused significant disruptions at the Mombasa port.

Based on 16 stories from today's coverage

politics

6 stories

Tribunal Rules Sifuna Retains ODM Secretary General Position: The Political Parties Disputes Tribunal dismissed a case filed by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna challenging his removal from the ODM Party Secretary General position, allowing him to retain his post. The tribunal directed the ODM party to utilize its internal dispute resolution mechanisms before any further action. Ahead of the ruling, ODM National Chairperson Gladys Wanga had disowned Sifuna, creating internal party tensions. Meanwhile, rival factions announced parallel National Delegates Conference meetings, highlighting the deep rift within the party's leadership.

Based on 6 stories from today's coverage

sports

3 stories

Kenya Faces Pressure to Meet AFCON 2027 Hosting Demands: Kenya faces significant pressure to meet financial and infrastructural demands for hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with concerns that payment delays could jeopardize its hosting rights. The Senegalese Football Federation has separately appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) after being stripped of their Africa Cup of Nations title and having it awarded to Morocco. FIFA is also investigating officials of the Congo Brazzaville Football Federation (Fecofoot) for alleged financial misconduct, including embezzlement of FIFA funds, following a conviction in the Brazzaville criminal court. These three stories are connected through African football governance issues, with all three involving CAF or FIFA-level disputes around the AFCON tournament.

Based on 3 stories from today's coverage

top

32 stories

Nurturing conservationists: Moruri was inspired by DR Isaac Kalua: Moruri, inspired by Dr Isaac Kalua, is highlighted as a figure nurturing conservationists in Kenya. The article highlights the inspiring story of a young conservationist, Baraka, who started her journey at the tender age of 14 years. These stories showcase efforts to develop future conservation leaders in Kenya. KDF Officers Arrested in Robbery Plot Targeting Senior Military Officer: Detectives have foiled a planned robbery targeting a senior military officer in Kitengela, arresting six suspects, including serving Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel. Kenya and the United States have reinforced their defence cooperation to tackle escalating security threats in East Africa, including the fight against Al Shabaab and other militia groups. Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo announced that the government has made significant progress in reforming the security sector, with approximately 55 percent of planned reforms implemented. Kenya's National Police Service (NPS) is set to roll out body cameras for officers soon as part of a broader strategy to enhance accountability and integrate technology into security operations. Motorists Raise Job Loss Fears Over Ksh500 Billion Naivasha-Malaba SGR Extension: The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has expressed concerns that the new Naivasha–Kisumu–Malaba Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) extension could significantly disrupt Kenya's highway-based economy by diverting cargo from roads to rail. Kenya's National Treasury has confirmed a Ksh389 billion Public Private Partnership (PPP) project to upgrade the Nairobi-Mombasa expressway, which will be converted into a toll road. President William Ruto has announced over $2.9 billion in new investment deals expected to create 63,000 jobs in Kenya during the Kenya International Investment Conference in Nairobi. KCAA Admits to Lapses at Wilson Airport After Airplane Crash-Landing: The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has admitted to critical regulatory lapses at Wilson Airport following a March 20, 2026 plane crash-landing involving a light aircraft with 39 people on board, though all occupants escaped unharmed. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has issued a crucial road safety advisory for motorists, pedestrians, and passengers due to persistent heavy rains across Kenya. The High Court has blocked the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) from lifting conservatory orders that suspended instant traffic fines. Mbadi Rules Out New Taxes in Finance Bill 2026: Kenya's Treasury CS John Mbadi has ruled out new taxes in the Finance Bill 2026, shifting focus to improving revenue collection efficiency by the Kenya Revenue Authority. The Treasury plans to utilize the Petroleum Development Levy to stabilize fuel prices, rejecting calls for direct subsidies. Meanwhile, KRA is intensifying its crackdown on nil return filers by monitoring mobile money transactions to ensure accurate income declaration. The Central Bank of Kenya has confirmed that older series banknotes, except the Ksh1,000 note, remain legal tender. EACC Recovers Ksh 13M Linked to Nairobi Cemetery Land Scandal: The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has successfully recovered Ksh13 million from a former Nairobi City Council official implicated in a cemetery land scandal. The State faces intense scrutiny over alleged mismanagement and irregular withdrawals totaling billions of shillings from the eCitizen platform, with the National Assembly's Public Accounts Committee (PAC) investigating the matter. An audit has uncovered significant financial irregularities and a potential data breach within the e-Citizen platform, raising serious concerns about the security and management of public funds. The Geothermal Development Company (GDC) has issued a public warning against fraudsters impersonating company officials to solicit illegal payments for fake procurement opportunities. Governor Waiguru urges national government to clear Sh1.06 billion coffee debt: Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has appealed to the national government to expedite the clearance of a significant debt owed to 14 coffee cooperatives in the county. The outstanding amount of Sh1.06 billion is reported to be a substantial financial burden hindering the cooperatives' operations. She is urging the national government to fast-track the waiver of the coffee debts, highlighting the detrimental impact on farmers. The debt has been a persistent issue affecting the coffee sector in Kirinyaga County. CS Opiyo Wandayi warns oil marketing companies hoarding fuel: The Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Gender and Affirmative Action, Opiyo Wandayi, has issued a stern warning to oil marketing companies accused of hoarding fuel, stating, "We are coming for you." This action comes amidst a worsening fuel crisis that is impacting Kenyans. The Kenyan government, through a directive from the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, has issued a stern warning to companies suspected of hoarding fuel for speculative profit, amid concerns of artificial shortages and inflated prices impacting consumers. Kisumu High Court orders police to pay 38.6 million shillings to protest victims: The Kisumu High Court has ordered the police to pay 38.6 million shillings in compensation to 28 victims of police brutality. The victims suffered during the 2023 Okoa Uchumi protests. Scientific evidence has placed a police officer at the scene of the murder of Rex Masai during the protests against the 2024 Finance Bill. Photos and videos presented in court during an inquest reportedly place a police officer at the scene of the shooting that killed Rex Kanyike Masai during protests.

No earlier news
Thursday, March 26, 2026
No newer news
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National Assembly Probes Missing Ksh9.4 Billion on eCitizen Platform - March 2026

The Kenyan government faces intense scrutiny over alleged mismanagement and irregular withdrawals totaling Ksh9.4 billion from the eCitizen platform. The National Assembly's Public Accounts Committee is investigating the matter. An audit has uncovered significant financial irregularities and a potential data breach within the eCitizen platform, raising serious concerns about the security and management of public funds and sensitive user information. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission had previously recovered Ksh13 million linked to a separate Nairobi cemetery land scandal.

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Kenya's National Treasury has confirmed a Ksh389 billion Public Private Partnership (PPP) project to upgrade the Nairobi-Mombasa expressway into a toll road. Meanwhile, the Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) has expressed concerns that the new Naivasha-Kisumu-Malaba Standard Gauge Railway extension could significantly disrupt Kenya's highway-based economy by diverting cargo from roads to rail. The SGR extension, valued at Ksh500 billion, has raised job loss fears among motorists who depend on road transport for their livelihoods.

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Treasury Uses Petroleum Levy to Stabilize Fuel Prices - March 2026

Kenya's Treasury CS John Mbadi has ruled out new taxes in the Finance Bill 2026, shifting focus to improving revenue collection efficiency by the Kenya Revenue Authority. The Treasury plans to utilize the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) to stabilize fuel prices, rejecting calls for direct subsidies. Meanwhile, Vivo Energy Kenya is addressing temporary fuel shortages across its network, attributing the issue to an unexpected surge in customer demand. President William Ruto has also reassured Kenyans that the government has implemented measures to secure fuel and commodity supplies amidst rising Middle East tensions.

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CS Opiyo Wandayi Warns Oil Marketing Companies Hoarding Fuel - March 2026

Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi issued a stern warning to oil marketing companies accused of hoarding fuel, stating "We are coming for you" as Kenyans face a worsening fuel crisis. The Ministry of Energy and Petroleum directed action against companies suspected of hoarding fuel for speculative profit, with concerns of artificial shortages and inflated prices impacting consumers. Vivo Energy Kenya, operator of Shell stations, experienced temporary fuel stock-outs due to unexpectedly high customer demand coinciding with rising global fuel prices. The company attributes shortages to stock-outs driven by increased demand and motorists stocking up in anticipation of price hikes.

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Prepare for Turbulence: Prolonged Middle East Conflict Reshapes Air Travel - March 2026

A prolonged conflict in the Middle East has significantly disrupted global air travel, impacting major Gulf aviation hubs like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. This disruption threatens the successful "Gulf model" of aviation which has made long-distance travel more affordable. South Korea is expanding fuel tax cuts to ease financial pressure on citizens amidst ongoing Middle East conflict. Skyward Airlines will increase its ticket prices starting April 1, 2026, due to escalating aviation fuel costs, implementing a fuel surcharge on all tickets. The OECD projects global economic growth to slow to 2.9 percent in 2026, citing Middle East tensions as a significant risk factor.

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+4 videos

CS Opiyo Wandayi warns oil marketing companies hoarding fuel - March 2026

The Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Gender and Affirmative Action, Opiyo Wandayi, has issued a stern warning to oil marketing companies accused of hoarding fuel, stating, "We are coming for you." This action comes amidst a worsening fuel crisis that is impacting Kenyans. The Kenyan government, through a directive from the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, has issued a stern warning to companies suspected of hoarding fuel for speculative profit. This action comes amidst concerns of artificial shortages and inflated prices impacting consumers. Meanwhile, Kenyan exporters are facing significant disruptions, including slowed shipments and increased costs, due to the escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. President William Ruto separately announced measures to safeguard Kenya's economy from potential disruptions caused by the Middle East crisis, focusing on fuel and commodity supply chains.

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Governor Waiguru urges national government to clear Sh1.06 billion coffee debt - March 2026

Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has appealed to the national government to expedite the clearance of a substantial debt owed to 14 coffee cooperatives in the county. The outstanding amount of Sh1.06 billion is reported to be a substantial financial burden hindering the cooperatives' operations. Governor Waiguru is urging the national government to fast-track the waiver of these coffee debts, highlighting the detrimental impact on farmers. Separately, President William Ruto hosted China's Vice President Han Zheng at State House, Nairobi, for official talks aimed at bolstering bilateral relations between the two nations.

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Kisumu High Court orders police to pay 38.6 million shillings to protest victims - March 2026

The Kisumu High Court has ordered the police to pay 38.6 million shillings in compensation to 28 victims of police brutality. The victims suffered during the 2023 Okoa Uchumi protests. The Kisumu Law Court had earlier ordered the government to pay Ksh. 38.6 million in compensation to 28 victims of the 2023 protests. Photos and videos presented in court during an inquest reportedly place a police officer at the scene of the shooting that killed Rex Kanyike Masai during protests against the 2024 Finance Bill. Scientific evidence has placed a police officer at the scene of the murder of Rex Masai, with the investigation into the incident continuing to unfold.

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Nurturing conservationists: Moruri was inspired by DR Isaac Kalua - March 2026

Moruri, inspired by Dr Isaac Kalua, is highlighted as a figure nurturing conservationists in Kenya. The article highlights the inspiring story of a young conservationist, Baraka, who started her journey at the tender age of 14 years. Over 10,000 households in Pokot Magharibi are set to benefit from a new water project aimed at curbing early pregnancies, with the initiative addressing water scarcity, a factor linked to increased rates of teenage pregnancies in the region.

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Based on 32 stories from today's coverage
Jubilee presidential candidate Fred Matiang'i calls for peaceful campaigns
How Ruto is reaping what he sowed in Uhuru era
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Mt Kenya Alliances Shift Ahead of 2027 General Elections - March 2026

The Mt Kenya region's political landscape is in flux ahead of 2027, with shifting alliances between President William Ruto, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, and retired President Uhuru Kenyatta redrawing the influence map. Jubilee Party presidential candidate Dr. Fred Matiang'i has called for peaceful and respectful campaigns, emphasizing the party's commitment to bringing positive change. An analysis suggests President Ruto is experiencing outcomes from his actions and associations during the previous Uhuru Kenyatta administration, which are now influencing his current political landscape.

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Kenyan Financial Sector Adapts to Digital Transformation - March 2026

Equity Group is heavily investing in artificial intelligence as a cornerstone of its future banking strategy, with an overwhelming 98.2% of its transactions now occurring outside of physical branches. A new report by Old Mutual reveals that Kenyans are increasingly turning to side hustles and mobile loans to cope with financial pressures, demonstrating a proactive approach to economic challenges. Meanwhile, Safaricom has announced the return of its annual engineering summit, Decode 4.0, scheduled to take place in Nairobi from March 31 to April 2, 2026. These developments collectively highlight how Kenyan institutions and individuals are embracing digital solutions to address evolving financial needs.

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Watu watatu wafariki baada ya kusombwa na maji ya mafuriko Makueni
Familia 800 zaathirika Taveta baada ya mvua kubwa
Haliya shule ya Mororo ilyofungwa kutokana na mafuriko 2024
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Floods displace families and cause casualties across Kenya - March 2026

Three people have tragically lost their lives in Makueni county after being swept away by floodwaters. Over 800 families in Taveta have been affected by heavy rains, leading to displacement and significant damage. The Hatata Primary School in Mororo, which previously served local residents and their children, now stands abandoned following the devastating 2024 floods, with the fate of the affected children in the region remaining uncertain.

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Kenya faces pressure to meet AFCON 2027 hosting demands
Senegal lodge appeal to Court of Arbitration for Sport over AFCON final decision
FIFA investigating allegations of financial misconduct in Congo
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Kenya Faces Pressure to Meet AFCON 2027 Hosting Demands - March 2026

Kenya faces significant pressure to meet financial and infrastructural demands for hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, with concerns that payment delays could jeopardize its hosting rights. Meanwhile, the Senegalese Football Federation has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport after being stripped of their AFCON title and having it awarded to Morocco. Separately, FIFA is investigating officials of the Congo Brazzaville Football Federation for alleged financial misconduct, including embezzlement of FIFA funds, following a conviction in the Brazzaville criminal court.

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