Kenya Heightens Ebola Preparedness Amid Regional Outbreak Concerns: Kenya is enhancing its Ebola preparedness and emergency response measures due to the recent outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain in neighboring Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Ministry of Health has intensified surveillance and put in place emergency response systems to prevent any potential spread into the country. Three travellers from the DRC tested negative for the virus, though concerns remain high. Meanwhile, the Congo national football team faces a mandatory 21-day isolation period in Belgium before entering the United States for the World Cup due to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in their home country. Nuclear Agency Shifts to Grassroots Engagement After Siaya Project Opposition: Following protests against a proposed Ksh500 billion nuclear power plant in Siaya County, the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA) has announced a shift to grassroots-level public engagement. Residents of Busia County have also raised separate concerns over an alleged increase in Ugandan nationals unlawfully possessing Kenyan national identity cards, sparking fears about the integrity of the upcoming 2027 General Elections. The family of Kate Mitchell, a senior programming manager at BBC Media Action killed in a Nairobi hotel in 2021, continues to plead for speedy justice five years after her death. Law Society of Kenya Advocates for PAYE Reforms in Finance Bill: The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and tax advisory firms are advocating for significant cuts to Pay As You Earn (PAYE) rates and a higher tax-free salary threshold in the Finance Bill 2026. The Teachers Service Commission has announced the appointment of Sharon Kisire as new Vice Chairperson, effective May 21, 2026. Meanwhile, the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) is developing a new university admission system to align with the competency-based education (CBE) curriculum for the first cohort transitioning in 2029. Matatu Operators Initiate Nationwide Strike Over Fuel Prices: Matatu operators across Kenya have initiated a nationwide strike in protest against escalating fuel prices, bringing public transportation to a halt across the country. The strike has left commuters to fend for themselves as transport services halted, directly impacting the cost of operation for operators. Fifty-seven protesters arrested during the matatu operators strike in Machakos Town have been released on bail after being arrested on Monday and Tuesday. Following discussions between President William Ruto and sector leaders, the public transport strike was officially suspended, with President Ruto announcing a reduction in diesel prices. KTN News Kenya reported on the nationwide matatu strike as operators protested escalating fuel prices across Kenya, with the situation putting leaders under scrutiny as they faced pressure to address the economic impact on commuters and transport businesses. Ruto Conducts Developmental Tour of Coastal Region: President William Ruto has announced 250 scholarships for students at Lungalunga Technical and Vocational College, coinciding with the foundation stone laying for new hostel facilities. During a developmental tour of the coastal region, President William Ruto pledged to address the issue of land squatters in the Lunga Lunga area, stating they will settle squatters in the region. The President also officiated the laying of the foundation stone for the ESP Market and the flagging off of Last Mile connectivity machinery in Lungalunga, Kwale County on Saturday, assuring residents that the Kenyan government will significantly invest in enhancing security across the entire region. Religious Leaders Respond to Unrest: Religious leaders and elders in Busia County are urging for calm and dialogue after violent protests in Marachi Estate resulted in three deaths. President William Ruto has invited religious leaders to State House, Nairobi, to foster dialogue and address national matters. Religious leaders in Kenya are also being urged to take a leading role in combating the stigma surrounding people with disabilities. Matatu Operators Initiate Nationwide Strike Over Fuel Costs: Matatu operators across Kenya have initiated a nationwide strike, leaving commuters to fend for themselves as transport services halt in direct response to escalating fuel prices. The protest has significantly impacted the cost of operation for transport businesses across the country. Following discussions between President William Ruto and sector leaders, the public transport strike was officially suspended after the President announced a reduction in diesel prices. The Kenyan government has subsequently defended its handling of the crisis, with leaders facing pressure to address the economic impact on commuters and transport businesses. Sports Tribunal Suspends Gor Mahia vs Mara Sugar Match: The Kenya Premier League title race faces uncertainty after the Sports Disputes Tribunal suspended a crucial match between league leaders Gor Mahia and Mara Sugar FC. Mara Sugar and Gor Mahia are facing difficulties regarding the venue for their upcoming match. The Football Kenya Federation has launched its World Football Week 2026 activation in Githurai, marking a significant step in preparation for the upcoming tournament. Kenya secured a 1-1 draw against Uganda in a FIFA U17 Womens World Cup qualifier, thanks to a spectacular goal.
