Oil falls below $100 amid hopes Iran war will end soon: Oil prices have fallen below $100 a barrel and Asian shares have surged following President Donald Trump's statement that the US will withdraw from Iran in "two to three weeks," irrespective of a deal. South Africa has announced significant fuel price hikes effective midnight, with petrol and diesel set to rise sharply due to escalating global oil prices and a weakening rand. Meanwhile, a crucial deal between the Kenyan government and Saudi Arabian firm Saudi Aramco to supply cheaper cooking gas has collapsed, delaying plans to expand the country's liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) infrastructure and lower prices. These developments reflect the ongoing volatility in global energy markets and their impact on consumers. KRA introduces WhatsApp tax returns platform: The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has launched a new WhatsApp-based platform designed to simplify the process of filing tax returns for Kenyans, aiming to boost compliance and enhance user experience by significantly reducing the number of steps required. Kenya's National Treasury is also transitioning to an electronic Pension Management Information System (e-PMIS) for retired civil servants starting May 1, 2026, aiming to eliminate lengthy processing delays and enhance security. Additionally, Infinix has launched the NOTE 60 Pro smartphone in Kenya, positioning it as a tool to empower the nation's burgeoning creative industry under the #CreatePro movement. These digital initiatives demonstrate Kenya's push toward technology-driven service delivery. Treasury warns Kenya’s Sh1.12tn budget deficit threatens fiscal stability: Kenya's Treasury has warned that a projected budget deficit of Sh1.12 trillion for the upcoming fiscal year poses a significant threat to the nation's fiscal stability, a sharp increase from the previous budget. The National Treasury Principal Secretary, Chris Kiptoo, acknowledged that the country's reliance on borrowing to finance its budget is unsustainable, even as the government plans to borrow more to cover this deficit for the 2025/26 financial year. Separately, the Kenyan National Assembly has approved the government's plan to sell a portion of its stake in Safaricom, allowing the State to offload shares effective April 1, 2026, with the transaction valued at Sh240 billion. These developments highlight the government's efforts to raise revenue amid growing fiscal pressures. Under 40s drive money market funds uptake, StanChart report: Younger Kenyans, particularly those under 40, are increasingly driving the uptake of money market funds (MMFs) in Kenya, according to a new report from Standard Chartered Bank. Separately, Safaricom's Ziidi Money Market Fund has reported a strong financial performance, posting a profit after tax of Sh784.2 million for the 14-month period ending December 31, 2025. An expert has also highlighted that widespread adoption of cloud computing is crucial for Kenya to achieve its $35-billion digital economy aspirations, emphasizing its role in driving innovation and inclusive growth. These stories collectively illustrate the growing role of younger Kenyans in driving adoption of digital financial products and Kenya's digital transformation. Households pressured by rising tomato, beef prices: Kenya's inflation has returned to 4.4 percent in March, driven by a significant increase in the prices of tomatoes and beef, putting renewed pressure on household budgets. East African Portland Cement (EAPC) has announced a price increase for its Blue Triangle cement, attributed to the ongoing rise in raw material costs, impacting the construction sector. The Kenyan government has assured that the Gikomba Market redevelopment will be completed within six months, promising phased construction to minimize disruption for traders. These stories reflect rising costs affecting both consumers and businesses across different sectors of the Kenyan economy.

Stevo Simple Boy Admits Infidelity in Painful Split From Baby Mama Brenda: Kenyan rapper Stevo Simple Boy has publicly addressed the reasons behind his painful split from his baby mama Brenda, admitting to infidelity. In a separate development, Captain Sammir, the ex-lover of US-based Kenyan TikToker Hanna Benta, claims he has identified the individual responsible for leaking private videos of Benta. At the same time, comedian Sammy Kioko was hospitalized after an alleged assault in Machakos, reportedly linked to a dispute over an unpaid debt.

DR Congo Fans Celebrate First World Cup Qualification in 52 Years: The Democratic Republic of Congo has qualified for the World Cup for the first time in 52 years, sparking jubilant celebrations in the streets of Kinshasa. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi starred with a goal and an assist as Argentina comfortably defeated Zambia 5-0 in their final home match before defending their World Cup crown. Additionally, Morocco's national football team coach Mohamed Ouahbi stated that his team is prioritizing preparations for the World Cup, dismissing distractions from the controversy surrounding the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final.

Samsung Launches Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G in Kenya Starting from KES 49,000: Samsung has officially launched its new mid-range smartphones, the Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G, in Kenya, with prices starting from KES 49,000. Meanwhile, Infinix has launched the #CreatePro campaign in Kenya, positioning the newly released NOTE 60 Pro smartphone as a tool for the growing Kenyan creator economy. Global tech giant Xiaomi is also expanding its presence in Kenya by hiring five Sales Supervisors to cover key regions including Nairobi, Rift, Western, Mombasa, and Mountain regions. These developments highlight the competitive Kenyan smartphone market as multiple global brands position their latest devices for Kenyan consumers.

Washukiwa 6 wakamatwa kuhusiana na sakata ya miili 33 iliyozikwa kwenye kaburi la halaiki Kericho: Authorities in Kericho have arrested six suspects in connection with the discovery of 33 bodies in a mass grave. The Director of Criminal Investigations, Mohamed Amin, confirmed that all 33 bodies exhumed from the mass grave originated from the morgue of Nyamira County Referral Hospital. Three suspects remain in police custody in connection with the case, with the grim find sending shockwaves through the region. Wandayi: Hakuna upungufu wa mafuta, gesi na mafuta ya taa ziko kwa wingi: Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has assured Kenyans that there is no fuel shortage in the country, emphasizing that the ministry is well-prepared to ensure adequate supply of fuel, gas, and kerosene. However, Kenyans are expressing deep concern over a potential fuel shortage following ongoing conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. The escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are raising fears of supply disruptions, with the conflict significantly disrupting global cross-country trade and impacting supply chains worldwide. Trump Says US Will Exit Iran in Two or Three Weeks: President Donald Trump has announced that the United States plans to conclude its military operations in Iran within 'two or three weeks', citing the nearing completion of objectives. The war timeline remains unclear as the US withdrawal approaches. Meanwhile, Tiger Woods has announced he is stepping away from golf to seek treatment for his health following a DUI arrest in Florida last week, pleading not guilty to the charges and set to miss the upcoming Masters tournament. These international developments contrast with regional African infrastructure initiatives, as Stellenbosch University engineers showcase the viability of African-built and solar-powered electric motorbikes for the continent's mobility needs. Maize farmers in North Rift urge government to fast-track transportation of subsidised fertiliser: Maize farmers in the North Rift region are appealing to the Kenyan government to expedite the transportation of subsidised fertiliser from the Port of Mombasa. This urgent request highlights concerns about timely access to agricultural inputs ahead of the planting season. Kenyan farmers are reporting significant financial benefits and increased income following the government's subsidised fertiliser program, which has allowed them to reduce costs and boost yields. Sakaja ajitokeza Seneti baada ya kukaidi wito huku juhudi za kukamatwa zikigonga mwamba: Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja presented himself before the Senate after defying previous summons, amidst failed attempts by police to arrest him. This follows a dramatic standoff where police surrounded his office after he failed to appear before the Senate's public accounts committee. Governors are insisting they will not appear before the CPAC while senators demand the arrest of Sakaja and Lelelit. Meanwhile, leaders from the Linda Mwananchi lobby group have accused Speaker Wetangula of unfairly removing Kibagendi from Parliament. Leaders in Kirinyaga are also pressing the government to expedite ID issuance to prevent voter disenfranchisement in upcoming elections. Bankers Warn KRA Over Heavy Taxation on Salaried Kenyans: Kenyan bankers are urging the government to reduce taxes on salaried workers, warning that the current burden could destabilize the economy. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi is drawing attention for his performance and potential future political role. Separately, the Matatu Owners Association is urging the government to prepare for fuel subsidies amid volatile global oil prices. Sakaja Ajitokeza Seneti Baada ya Kukaidi Wito: Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja appeared before the Senate after defying previous summons, amidst failed attempts to have him arrested. The Council of Governors (COG) had expressed concerns over the alleged excessive force used by the Office of the Inspector General of Police in the attempt to arrest Sakaja. The standoff occurred after Sakaja defied an order to appear before a Senate watchdog committee. Meanwhile, the Linda Wananchi faction of ODM plans to sue National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula over the suspension of Kitutu South MP Antony Kibagendi, who has been suspended from the National Assembly for another 14 days following a finding of 'gross disorderly conduct'. Competition Authority Raids Foam Mattress Firms Over Suspected Cartel Practices: The Competition Authority of Kenya conducted simultaneous raids on six foam mattress manufacturers and distributors across four counties as part of an investigation into suspected cartel practices. This comes amid concerns about document shortages that could affect IDs, logbooks, and birth certificates, with the Government Printer at risk of shutting down due to a debt of Ksh475.4 million and budget cuts. The Public Service Commission is also implementing a new verification process to combat fraudulent academic certificates within the civil service, putting thousands of jobs at risk. State Demolishes Gikomba Market for Modern Upgrade: Nairobi's iconic Gikomba Market is undergoing phased demolition for a modern upgrade, sparking mixed reactions from traders and criticism from opposition leaders. The opposition has accused President Ruto's administration of brutality and harassment following the demolitions, claiming the forceful evictions have disproportionately affected small-scale traders. The market, a long-standing hub for second-hand clothes and various commodities, is being rebuilt as part of the government's modernization agenda.