Oil Prices Surge to Highest Since 2022 Amid Iran Blockade Reports: Oil prices have surged dramatically to their highest point since 2022, with Brent crude briefly reaching $119 per barrel, following reports that the US is preparing for an 'extended' blockade of Iran. The International Energy Agency warns the world is facing its most severe energy crisis in history, with disruptions in oil and gas markets exacerbated by ongoing global conflicts. Meanwhile, Kenya's Ministry of Investments Trade and Industry has temporarily relaxed fuel quality standards for six months to address supply chain disruptions. Kenya Adds 717,000 Jobs in 2025: Kenya added approximately 716,800 new jobs in 2025, with the overwhelming majority originating from the informal sector, reinforcing the nation's continued reliance on small-scale employment despite a slight dip in GDP growth. Motorcycle sales in Kenya more than doubled in 2025, reaching a four-year high, driven by a more stable Kenyan shilling and reduced interest rates on loans. The construction of a modern market in Iten has significantly boosted youth employment, transforming the local economy and providing opportunities for hundreds of young people. Kenya's Mobile Money Users Hit 51.4mn: Kenya experienced a significant surge in mobile money subscriptions, reaching 51.4 million in 2025, according to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics. KCB Bank has launched a new mortgage product with single-digit interest rates specifically for individuals in Kenya's informal economy, aiming to boost homeownership. The Kenyan insurance industry is rapidly transforming from a transactional model to a data-driven, personalized approach, driven by evolving consumer expectations.

President Ruto Awards Sebastian Sawe Ksh8 Million For Sub-Two-Hour Marathon: President William Ruto has awarded marathoner Sebastian Sawe Ksh8 million for his groundbreaking achievement in the London Marathon. This recognition marks a significant milestone for Kenyan athletics. In a separate development, controversial preacher Pastor Victor Kanyari revealed he was financially supported by an older woman, a 'mumamaa', during his teenage years. Meanwhile, gospel singer Guardian Angel surprised street evangelists in Nairobi's CBD with a substantial donation, alleviating their financial burden. Oga Obinna Opens Up On Feelings For Miss P And His Search For A Wife: Media personality Oga Obinna has addressed speculation about his feelings for singer Miss P and outlined his criteria for a wife. Similarly, media personality DJ Bonez has addressed rumors of a split with wife Kamene Goro, confirming they are still together while she recuperates at her parents' home after an ICU and HDU stay. Kenyan comedienne and digital creator Dem Wa Facebook has also shared personal news, announcing she is expecting twins.

Former Senator Gloria Orwoba Arrested at Parliament Gate While Attempting to Reclaim Seat: Former Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba was arrested on Wednesday after attempting to access Parliament to reclaim her seat. Her vehicle reportedly blocked the main entrance, leading to a confrontation with security personnel. Orwoba cited a court ruling as the basis for her attempt to reenter Parliament. She was later freed on bail hours after the arrest, with the incident occurring at the Parliament gate entrance. Wetang'ula, Mudavadi Meet With Over 30 Western MPs Ahead of Elections: National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi met with over 30 Members of Parliament from the Western region on Wednesday to strategize for upcoming elections. The meeting also included Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya. The gathering focused on political coordination among Western region leaders ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Kenya Deepens Oracle Partnership to Accelerate Local Cloud Rollout: Kenya is deepening its partnership with Oracle to expedite the rollout of cloud services locally and boost digital skills development. At the same time, Kenya is developing a comprehensive strategy to govern artificial intelligence amidst rising public concern over misinformation and deepfakes, with Principal Secretary Stephen Isaboke outlining the nation's approach at the Connected Africa Summit 2026. Meanwhile, Cross Switch has appointed Gillian Koinange as Head of Business Development for East Africa, signaling the company's commitment to expanding its regional presence and accelerating growth in the tech sector.

JSC Nominates Justice Mohamed Warsame to Supreme Court: The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has nominated Court of Appeal Judge Mohamed Abdulahi Warsame for appointment to the Supreme Court, filling the vacancy left by the late Justice Mohammed Kadhar Ibrahim. Justice Warsame brings 32 years of experience in the legal profession, including his tenure at the Court of Appeal since 2012. The JSC concluded interviews for the vacant Supreme Court judge position and announced the nominee within seven days, with the selected candidate to be forwarded to President William Ruto for appointment. This follows the JSC's separate initiative to begin publishing individual performance data for judges and judicial officers starting July 1, 2026, aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability within the Judiciary. Northern Kenya MPs Condemn Rising Attacks Between Mwingi and Garissa: Members of Parliament from Northern Kenya have convened a press conference to address the escalating tensions between Kitui and Garissa counties, demanding immediate action to address the escalating insecurity. MP Adan Keynan is demanding the immediate arrest of individuals responsible for a surge in violent incidents along the Mwingi–Garissa road. Meanwhile, protests erupted in Mwingi over escalating insecurity along the Tana River border, with demonstrators expressing anger over rising crime and alleged inaction. Mwingi residents also disrupted transportation services in protest following the killing of 7 people, leading to significant challenges in the region's transport sector. The Nairobi–Garissa highway has been closed for a second consecutive day due to protests sparked by recent killings in Kitui, significantly disrupting travel and commerce along the route. School Heads Face Penalties for Unapproved Fee Increases: Heads of schools in Kenya will face penalties for increasing school fees without consulting the Ministry of Education, following numerous complaints from parents and stakeholders regarding arbitrary fee hikes. The Kenyan government is facing mounting pressure to resolve the escalating school fee crisis, with parents and stakeholders demanding immediate action to address the rising costs of education. Separately, the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) is urging the Nyeri County government to absorb intern teachers into permanent positions. TVETA Issues 21-Day Closure Notice to 2 More Institutions: The Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA) has issued 21-day closure notices to two private training institutions in Machakos County for failing to meet compliance standards. A new report reveals significant shortcomings in Kenya's Competency-Based Education (CBE) transition, despite its aim to improve the education system. Cabinet Secretary for Education Julius Ogamba has called for disciplinary action against Margaret Njeru, the Chief Principal of Alliance Girls High School, for irregularities in fee hikes. WWF Kenya Expands Predator Deterrent Programme in Amboseli-Chyulu Landscape: WWF Kenya has expanded its predator deterrent programme in the Amboseli-Chyulu landscape, installing 272 new units to reduce human-wildlife conflict. The Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has launched a new Joint Operations Centre (JOC) at Malindi International Airport to bolster aviation security and border management. Recording Academy President Panos Panay is scheduled to visit Nairobi from May 26 to May 29 for high-level talks with Kenyan President William Ruto, aiming to strengthen cultural and creative ties. IG Kanja Orders Deployment of Special Police Units to Nairobi-Garissa Highway: Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has deployed specialized police units, including the General Service Unit (GSU) and the Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU), to the Nairobi-Garissa Highway following a surge in deadly attacks that have disrupted transport and caused public concern. The government deployed these elite police units to escort vehicles along the Mwingi-Garissa Road following a series of deadly attacks in Kitui County. Leaders from the North Eastern region have strongly condemned the recent deadly violence along the Mwingi-Garissa road, warning that the escalating clashes threaten years of peaceful coexistence. The National Liberal Party (NLP) is demanding that escalating violence in Mwingi and along the Mwingi-Garissa Highway be declared a national emergency, warning of potential inter-community conflict. KenGen Reveals New Plan for Reduction in Power Prices: KenGen is hinting at potentially lower electricity prices due to a surge in hydroelectric power generation across the country, attributed to significantly improved water levels in key dams. The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued a public warning regarding fake job offers circulating for the Rironi-Naivasha road projects, where mass recruitments are underway for construction works. The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) data indicates a significant rise in vehicle registrations by 47.9% between 2021 and 2025, coinciding with intensified enforcement efforts. BT Cotton Seeds Distributed to Farmers in Kwale as Innovation Boosts Agriculture: The Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS) has distributed 300 kg of BT cotton seeds and pesticides to farmers in Kwale County. Kenyan agriculture is experiencing a surge in innovation, leading to improved food security and increased farmer incomes across the nation. Scientists are also developing a new potato variety, Shangi Kinga, designed to combat late blight and significantly improve crop yields for farmers.