Sh1.3trn of Kenya's Sh4.8trn Budget Goes to Debt Repayment: Kenya's Sh4.8 trillion budget for fiscal year 2026/27 faces significant strain, with a staggering Sh1.3 trillion allocated to debt repayment, impacting development spending. An audit by Auditor-General Nancy Gathungu has revealed that the National Treasury illegally diverted Sh30 billion in Eurobond proceeds to cover domestic debt shortfalls, violating the bond's subscription agreement. Kenya's proposed Finance Bill 2026 is set to end tax relief for Kenya Airways (KQ) and significantly expand the digital tax net. The government has also proposed a new 5 percent tax on imported second-hand clothing, known as mitumba, under the same draft Finance Bill 2026. Social Media Overtakes TV, Radio as Top News Source in Kenya: Social media has surpassed television and radio as the primary source of news for Kenyans, according to a new report. This shift in media consumption comes as Kenya's businesses continue to suffer significant economic disruption and financial losses due to recurring electoral violence, impacting investor confidence, supply chains, and livelihoods. Despite Kenya's leadership in financial technology, financial inclusion remains a false promise without adequate insurance coverage, as individuals with mobile money accounts and credit access can lose everything to unforeseen events like fires or theft. Centum, KCB Launch 8.9pc Fixed-Rate Mortgage Deal: Centum Real Estate has partnered with KCB Bank to introduce an exciting new fixed-rate mortgage deal aimed at making homeownership more accessible in Kenya. TotalEnergies Marketing Kenya has reported a significant increase in its net profit for the year ended December 2025, reaching Sh2.17 billion, achieved despite a contraction in the company's top-line revenue. Samburu County is set to host the 37th edition of the Rhino Charge, a renowned off-road conservation fundraising event, from May 29 to 31.

Betty Kyallo Shows Off New Push Gift From Husband: Kenyan TV news anchor Betty Kyallo has showcased her new Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 AMG, a luxury vehicle gifted to her by her husband shortly after the birth of their daughter. Digital content creator Gloria Ntazola has ignited a viral online conversation about the high rate of failing marriages in Kenya, attributing the issue to couples forcing issues rather than allowing relationships to develop naturally. Kenyan TikTok star Cindy has expressed feelings of betrayal by her fans after her ex-partner Janabi remarried, claiming her followers previously encouraged their reconciliation. Radio personality Andrew Kibe has sparked a debate on marriage by suggesting couples sleep in separate beds to preserve individuality and reduce conflict.

Governor Kang’ata Ditches UDA Ahead of 2027 Elections: Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata has announced his departure from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, stating he will not seek the governorship using the party in the upcoming elections. The Governor cited lack of convergence on political strategies and alleged pressure to endorse the President's re-election bid as reasons for his departure. This signals a significant shift in the Mt Kenya region's political landscape ahead of the 2027 General Election. President William Ruto has returned to Murang'a to continue his campaign, asserting that his government's performance record will secure him a second term in office. Meanwhile, Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has welcomed a truce between the Senate and the Council of Governors, emphasizing the need for mutual respect in resolving issues of county oversight and accountability. Kalonzo Hints at United Opposition Unity Talks: Kalonzo Musyoka, Wiper Patriotic Front leader, has indicated that his party is in talks with the Linda Mwananchi faction of ODM and the United Opposition to form a united front for the 2027 General Election, aiming to unseat President William Ruto. A political power struggle within the ODM party between Siaya Governor James Orengo and Siaya Senator Oburu Odinga is reawakening historical rivalries in Luo Nyanza. Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has accused opposition leaders of promoting divisive politics within the country, suggesting these actions are detrimental to national unity. Senator Cherargei Tables Motion to Slash Uhuru's Retirement Benefits: Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei has introduced a motion in the Senate to potentially slash or revoke the retirement benefits of former President Uhuru Kenyatta. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has urged former President Uhuru Kenyatta to emulate Mwai Kibaki and retire from active politics, adopting the role of an elder statesman. Allies of Kenya Kwanza administration have intensified their criticism of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing him of undermining the current government and allegedly funding opposition activities. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has defended retired President Uhuru Kenyatta against criticism from Kenya Kwanza government leaders regarding his recent remarks, asserting that the former President has the right to express his opinions.

Mixed relay team shines for Kenya with ticket to Worlds: Kenya's mixed 4x400m relay team secured a ticket to the 2027 World Championships in Beijing despite finishing fourth at the World Athletics Relays in Gaborone, Botswana. In football, Gor Mahia extended their lead at the top of the SportPesa Premier League to nine points after a dramatic 1-0 victory over Kakamega Homeboyz. Meanwhile, Manchester United secured a spot in the Champions League next season after a dramatic 3-2 victory over Liverpool at Old Trafford on May 3, 2026.

Novastar Closes $147M Fund III to Back Climate-Focused African Startups: Novastar Ventures has successfully closed its Africa People and Planet Fund III (NVIII) at $147 million, making it one of the largest venture capital funds dedicated to Africa. The fund will target climate-focused startups across the continent. Separately, Spotify and ONErpm recently held a two-day Fresh Finds workshop in Nairobi aimed at nurturing emerging artists from East Africa, supporting music industry growth in the region. Meanwhile, searches for used items on Kenya's Jiji platform surged by 70% in the first quarter of 2026, indicating a booming pre-loved economy driven by affordability and digital access. These developments reflect diverse sectors attracting investment and innovation across East Africa.

Maraga accuses government of backing goons at Limuru conference: Former Chief Justice David Maraga has accused the government of sponsoring and protecting "goons" involved in disruptive activities at opposition rallies. He has also strongly criticized the Kenyan government for failing to effectively maintain national security. These statements come amid heightened political tensions following the Linda Mwananchi faction's sharp criticism of President William Ruto for his planned address to the Tanzanian parliament, and as the Orange Democratic Movement has commenced a three-day retreat in Mombasa aimed at addressing deepening internal divisions. Homicide detectives take over probe into Dr Obwaka's death: Homicide detectives have taken over the investigation into the death of former Nairobi Hospital Board member Doctor Job Obwaka. The main suspect, identified as Beatrice Wangari, was brought before the Kibra Law Courts. Kenyan police have made their first arrest in connection with the ongoing investigation. Several individuals who were in contact with him prior to his passing have been questioned as part of the ongoing probe. Beatrice Wangare had previously arrived at the Kibera Law Courts as a person of interest in the death. Police hunt masterminds behind weapons seized along Thika–Garissa Highway: Kenyan police are actively hunting for the masterminds behind a significant firearms and ammunition cache seized from a bus along the Thika–Garissa Highway on Sunday during a routine check. In a separate development, Directorate of Criminal Investigations detectives have successfully thwarted an attempt to steal jet fuel from an aircraft at Wilson Airport, arresting four suspects and recovering a significant amount of fuel. Additionally, tension erupted in Vihiga County on Sunday evening as boda boda operators clashed with police along the Busia-Kisumu highway following a crackdown on motorbikes, leading to a temporary paralysis of transport. Gor Mahia extend league lead after victory over Homeboyz: Gor Mahia has extended their lead at the top of the Kenyan Premier League after securing a victory against Homeboyz. The crucial win solidifies their position as league leaders. Gor Mahia has ascended to the top of the league standings with 64 points following their recent success. Separately, Tusker FC has secured a spot in the FKF Cup semifinals after defeating Ulinzi Stars in a thrilling match. Kang'ata to quit Ruto's UDA party citing 'honest differences' ahead of 2027 race: Murang'a Governor Irungu Kang'ata has announced he will not seek re-election on the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket in 2027, citing "honest differences" with President William Ruto over policy priorities. He has dismissed claims he is defecting to join the DCP, instead suggesting the government's actions are inadvertently boosting the opposition. Separately, Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has defended former President Uhuru Kenyatta against threats by some Kenya Kwanza leaders to withdraw his retirement benefits due to his political activities. Meanwhile, President William Ruto has returned to Murang'a to continue his campaign, asserting that his government's performance record will secure him a second term. TSC approaches Supreme Court to halt ruling that declared intern teacher programme unconstitutional: The Teachers Service Commission has approached the Supreme Court to halt a ruling that declared the intern teacher programme unconstitutional. Meanwhile, University of Nairobi students are threatening a strike over the prolonged delay in appointing a substantive Vice Chancellor and other key leadership positions, with the lack of permanent leadership creating uncertainty and disrupting university operations. On World Press Freedom Day, the Media Council of Kenya and various stakeholders are emphasizing the welfare of journalists alongside calls for increased professionalism. Gachagua defends Uhuru's remarks amid calls for opposition unity: Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has defended retired President Uhuru Kenyatta against criticism from Kenya Kwanza government leaders regarding his recent remarks. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has asserted that President Uhuru Kenyatta has the right to express his opinions, even if they differ from the current administration's stance. Allies of Kenya Kwanza administration have intensified their criticism of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing him of undermining the current government and allegedly funding opposition activities. Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has accused opposition leaders of promoting divisive politics within the country. Ruto urges judges to uphold integrity, deliver timely justice: President William Ruto has urged newly sworn-in judges to prioritize integrity and deliver justice promptly, even in the face of unpopular decisions. Separately, homicide detectives have taken over the investigation into the death of former Nairobi Hospital Board member Doctor Job Obwaka, with several individuals who were in contact with him prior to his passing questioned as part of the ongoing probe. A family in Likoni is also seeking justice after their 24-year-old daughter, Videlis Chepchumba, was found murdered in her home. 37 High Court judges officially sworn in by President William Ruto: President William Ruto has officially sworn in 37 new High Court judges at a ceremony held at State House. As part of a significant judicial appointment, the President presided over the swearing-in of 24 High Court judges at State House Nairobi. President Ruto urged them to uphold integrity and make decisions strictly based on the law. The ceremonies mark a substantial expansion of the judicial bench. Police seize weapons from bus on Thika-garissa highway: Police officers intercepted a bus on the Thika - Garissa highway, seizing a shipment of suspected weapons that posed a security threat. Former Chief Justice David Maraga has accused the government of sponsoring and protecting goons involved in disruptive activities at opposition rallies. Chief Justice David Maraga has strongly criticized the Kenyan government for failing to effectively maintain national security. The operation highlights ongoing efforts to maintain public safety.