CBK Sees Inflation Peaking at 6.2pc in July on Iran War: The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) projects inflation could peak at 6.2 percent in July 2026 due to the ongoing Iran conflict, which is driving up oil prices. Meanwhile, China's economy has demonstrated stronger-than-expected growth of 5% in the first quarter, defying global economic disruptions including the conflict involving Iran. The CBK's projection comes as the Kenyan government proposes a reduction in Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products, aiming to alleviate consumer costs. Siaya Governor Orengo Slams EPRA Over Fuel Price Hike: Siaya Governor James Orengo has slammed the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) over fuel price increases, demanding full transparency in the pricing system. In response, MP Babu Owino has rallied Kenyans to get ready for mass protests against the fuel price hike. Meanwhile, Kenyans are facing record-high fuel prices with petrol reaching a historic peak of KSh 206.97, and prices for manufactured goods in Kenya are projected to increase by as much as 20%. EPRA Cuts Petrol by Sh9.37, Diesel by Sh10.21 After VAT Slash to 8pc: Kenya has seen a significant reduction in fuel prices following a decision by the National Treasury to slash Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products from 16% to 8%. A litre of petrol will now retail at Sh197.60 in Nairobi, down by Sh9.37, and diesel at Sh196.63, a decrease of Sh10.21. The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced these reductions, offering relief to consumers. However, regional disparities have emerged as Kenya continues to pay considerably more for fuel than its neighboring countries. Ride-hailing drivers in Nairobi are facing significantly reduced earnings following recent fuel price hikes, while commuters across Kenya are facing immediate difficulties as transport fares have been increased following the surge in fuel prices that took effect at midnight Tuesday.

Kindiki, Waiguru Rally Mt Kenya Support for Ruto Re-election: Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru have launched a joint campaign to secure the Mt Kenya region's unwavering support for President William Ruto's re-election bid in 2027. This comes as the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) faces internal tensions with coalition partners, including accusations of bullying and coercion from the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and Ford Kenya as the party seeks to consolidate power ahead of the general election. Meanwhile, Kenya's ruling UDA and the opposition are locked in a blame game over the recent fuel crisis and rising pump prices. The three stories highlight the broader political dynamics surrounding Ruto's re-election strategy, involving both coalition management and opposition criticism.

Rice 'doesn't care' about Arsenal critics after reaching Champions League semis: Arsenal secured a spot in the Champions League semi-finals for the second consecutive year after holding Sporting Lisbon to a goalless draw, advancing 1-0 on aggregate. Manager Mikel Arteta expressed confidence in his team's character following the achievement. Meanwhile, Bayern Munich eliminated Real Madrid from the Champions League semi-finals following a dramatic comeback, with striker Harry Kane praising a late 'moment of magic' from Luis Diaz. Additionally, France boss Didier Deschamps confirmed that Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike will miss the 2026 World Cup due to a serious injury.

Fuel Prices Drop After Record Surge to KSh 206.97: Fuel prices have experienced a notable drop, offering relief to consumers across Kenya following a period of record-high prices. Petrol had reached a historic peak of KSh 206.97, with diesel also seeing a substantial increase. The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced the reduction in fuel prices. However, commuters across Kenya continue to face difficulties as transport fares were increased following the earlier surge in fuel prices that took effect at midnight Tuesday. Meanwhile, prices for manufactured goods in Kenya are projected to increase significantly, potentially by as much as 20%, impacting consumers and household budgets across the country. Online Cab Drivers Announce 1.5x Fare Hike Following Fuel Price Surge: Online cab fares in Kenya are set to increase significantly after the Organization of Online Drivers (OOD) announced a new pricing structure implementing a 1.5X fare multiplier. This follows a surge in fuel prices that took effect at midnight Tuesday. Commuters across Kenya are facing immediate difficulties as transport fares have been increased. Additionally, commuters in Nairobi are expressing surprise at fare increases on electric buses despite the vehicles not using petrol or diesel. Senate Committee Probes Contaminated Fuel Shipment at KPC Mombasa Facility: The Kenyan Senate Committee is currently investigating a contaminated fuel shipment that arrived at the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) facility in Mombasa. The shipment reportedly contained a significant amount of adulterated fuel, raising concerns about its potential impact and the processes involved in its import and handling. The Kenyan Senate has raised allegations that the government was aware of the importation of counterfeit fuel into the country. Kenya's opposition is threatening nationwide protests following allegations of a fuel price scandal, demanding answers and accountability regarding the unexplained increase in fuel costs. EPRA Reduces Fuel Prices After VAT Cut to 8 Percent: The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has reduced fuel pump prices following the government's reduction of Value Added Tax (VAT) from 13 percent to 8 percent, effective April 16 to May 14, 2026. This reduction comes after Kenya experienced record-high fuel prices with petrol reaching KSh 206.97. The government also allocated Ksh6.5 billion to cushion citizens from high fuel prices. However, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) warned Kenya and other nations about using fiscal interventions like fuel subsidies and VAT cuts to combat rising fuel prices. An expert warns that Kenya's Petroleum Development Levy Fund may not survive prolonged Middle East tensions. Contaminated Fuel Under Investigation at KPC Mombasa Facility: The Kenyan Senate Committee is investigating a contaminated fuel shipment that arrived at the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) facility in Mombasa, containing a significant amount of adulterated fuel. The Consumers Federation of Kenya (COFEK) issued an alert regarding allegedly harmful compounds, specifically carcinogenic halogenated bromides, detected in Kenya's fuel supply. The Senate has raised allegations that the government was aware of the importation of counterfeit fuel into the country, prompting calls for immediate regulatory action. IG Kanja Recalls Ishiara OCS After Deadly Embu Protest Shootings: The Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has ordered the recall of the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) in Ishiara, Embu County, following protests that resulted in the fatal shooting of two people. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has identified politicians as the primary threat to national security, alleging their involvement in mobilizing youth for violent activities. Murkomen announced that General Service Unit (GSU) and administration police recruits will undergo fresh training focusing on crowd control and curbing gang-related violence to address rising insecurity and lessons learned from recent protests.