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HomeDaily NewsThursday, May 28, 2026
Kenya News - Thursday, May 28, 2026
Daily Summary

Kenya News - Thursday, May 28, 2026

Tragedy struck Utumishi Girls' Academy in Gilgil where a dormitory fire claimed 16 students' lives, hospitalizing 79 others. Investigations are underway, with calls for better safety protocols. Meanwhile, matatu operators protest their exclusion from fuel price talks, leading to nationwide transport disruptions. Internationally, the US military is swiftly building an Ebola quarantine facility in Kenya, sparking debate amid concerns over public health and sovereignty, with LSK rejecting proposals for an international treatment centre. In Molo and Busia, families mourn post-protest deaths confirmed as gunshot-related, while KeNHA issues demolition notices to traders. The nation also grapples with a rising number of missing children, though some are found. On the sports front, the Junior Starlets aim to secure a win against Uganda in their U-17 World Cup qualifier at Nyayo Stadium.

88 stories across 15 topics
Updated 6:21 PM

Top Stories Today

16 killed in Utumishi Girls Academy dormitory fire
Education Ministry Gives New Directives After Utumishi Girls Fire
CSs Murkomen, Ogamba, DCI Boss Amin hold crisis meeting after Utumishi Girls fire tragedy that killed 15
Kalonzo Calls for Urgent School Safety Reforms After Utumishi Girls Academy Fire Tragedy
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16 Killed in Utumishi Girls Academy Dormitory Fire - May 2026

A devastating dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Nakuru County has resulted in the tragic deaths of 16 students and injuries to 79 others. The incident occurred around 12:45 am. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba ordered the midday release of students from the school and urged parents to report through a government hotline. Senior government officials including Cabinet Secretaries Murkomen and Ogamba, along with Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin, convened a crisis meeting at the scene. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations launched a probe into the fire incident while Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka urged the government to implement urgent safety reforms in schools.

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KeNHA Issues 30-Day Demolition Notice to Traders on Key Roads
Sakaja Issues 6-Month Demolition Notice to Nairobi Landlords
Armed suspect arrested after foiled robbery attempt in Jamhuri
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KeNHA Issues 30-Day Demolition Notice to Traders on Key Roads - May 2026

Why MPs believe the new budget is a raw deal for education sector
Inside Govt’s Ksh2.4B Plan for Industrial Parks in All Counties
Timeline for Establishment of Oil Refinery in Kenya Revealed
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Kenyan MPs Say New Budget is Raw Deal for Education Sector - May 2026

Ruto Details High-Stakes Talks With Matatu Stakeholders Amid Fresh Strike Fears
Twist as Matatu Workers Threaten to Down Their Tools
IMF Issues Warning on Fuel Prices & Subsidies, Offers Alternative Solutions to Countries
Matatu drivers accuse government of excluding them from fuel talks
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Trump Directs U.S. Military to Build Ebola Quarantine Facilities in Kenya in 7 Days
Petition Filed to Block Proposed Ebola Quarantine Facility in Kenya
LSK rejects move to establish Ebola treatment centre in Kenya
CS Duale Insists Foreign Health Agreements Must Follow Kenyan Law Amid Ebola Reports
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More News Topics

Uhuru faces Ruto in court over Sh16b Jubilee funding arrears
No end in sight to former President, UDA war of words
Hypocrisy at prayer breakfast as politicians spare insults for rivals
God will decide 2027, Ruto tells a nation on edge
politics4

Uhuru Faces Ruto in Court Over Sh16b Jubilee Funding Arrears - May 2026

The Jubilee Party is heading to court to challenge President William Ruto's administration over an alleged non-payment of Sh16 billion in funding arrears. The party claims this deliberate withholding of funds is aimed at undermining its operations. A political feud has intensified between former President Uhuru Kenyatta and the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA). At the 22nd National Prayer Breakfast in Nairobi, Kenyan politicians, including President William Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki, were observed to set aside their political rivalries, despite preceding public exchanges. The President has urged Kenyans to remain calm regarding the 2027 General Election, stating that its outcome is in God's hands and not subject to political maneuvering.

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You can’t digitise a blackout
Cooling the AI surge: building sustainable liquid-cooled data centres for next-gen workloads
Motorists to Receive Traffic Fines via SMS, Email Under New NTSA Enforcement System
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You Can't Digitise a Blackout - May 2026

According to Symphrose Ochieng of Schneider Electric, digitising East Africa's energy sector requires strengthening existing infrastructure before layering smart technologies. This warning comes as the increasing demand from AI workloads pushes data centres beyond traditional air cooling capabilities, necessitating liquid cooling for energy efficiency and performance. Meanwhile, Kenya is set to revolutionise traffic fine delivery with a new digital enforcement system allowing motorists to receive notifications via SMS and email starting June 1, 2026.

Education CS Migos Ogamba confirms the death of 16 students at Utumishi Girls' Academy
Utumishi Girls tragedy leaves 16 dead as dormitory fire while injuring another 79 students
Mkasa wa moto kwenye bweni wasababisha maafa  katitika shule ya wasichana ya Utumishi Gilgil
Idaara ya upelelezi yaanza uchunguzi wa mkasa wa moto katika Utimishi Academy, Gilgil
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Junior Starlets aim to advance in U-17 World Cup qualifiers against Uganda
Junior Starlets intensify preparations for decisive Uganda World Cup qualifier
Junior Starlets confident ahead of crucial Uganda return leg in Nairobi
Junior Starlets wanatafuta kufuzu Kombe la Dunia U-17 dhidi ya Uganda Nyayo
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Families raise alarm as cases of missing children continue across the country
Familia Kayole zatafuta watoto waliopotea
Two missing children found safe and reunited with family in Nairobi
Watoto wa kike wanadhulumiwa kimapenzi kutokana na uchochole kambini Budalang’i
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Matatu drivers accuse government of excluding them from fuel talks
Madereva na makanga walalamikia kutengwa katika mazungumzo ya mgogoro wa mafuta
Wahudumu wa matatu wanalalamika kukandamizwa mapato na kutengwa mazungumzo mafuta
Birungi Korutaro,CE0 - Kilimo Trust || Captains of industry
video4
Going back home: Diana Marua returns to Komarock
Diana Marua Confesses To Financial Strain With Bahati While Building Massive New Mansion
Nurse Judy revelas chasing the bag is wearing her thin and she’s thinking of returning to Africa
entertainment3

Diana Marua Makes Emotional Return To Childhood Home In Komarock - May 2026

Rachel Ruto’s Bible thumping raises eyebrows
Grace Ekirapa Details How Church Members View Her Differently After Pascal Tokodi Divorce
Pastor Kanyari reveals his daughter Sky makes Ksh 500K a month from content creation
entertainment3

Rachel Ruto Calls For Nationwide Prayer At Women’s Convocation - May 2026

News by Category

business

6 stories

Cooling the AI Surge: Building Sustainable Liquid-Cooled Data Centres for Next-Gen Workloads: The increasing demand from AI workloads is pushing data centres beyond the capabilities of traditional air cooling, necessitating the adoption of liquid cooling for energy efficiency and performance. According to Symphrose Ochieng from Schneider Electric, digitising East Africa's energy sector requires a foundational focus on strengthening existing infrastructure before layering in smart technologies. These stories highlight the critical infrastructure prerequisites for technological advancement in East Africa, emphasizing that digital transformation cannot succeed without reliable power foundations. I&M Bank MTN Begins NSE Trading After Sh23.2bn Oversubscription: I&M Bank has successfully listed its first tranche of Kenya Shillings-denominated Medium-Term Note (MTN) on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), following an oversubscribed public offer. The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) has simultaneously approved the registration of the Pergamon Investment Bank Unit Trust Scheme, adding new regulated investment products to Kenya's expanding capital markets. These developments signal growing investor appetite and institutional expansion in Kenya's financial markets, with both transactions representing new fundraising avenues for corporate entities.

Based on 6 stories from today's coverage

entertainment

9 stories

Diana Marua Reveals Financial Strain While Building New Mansion: Kenyan digital content creator Diana Marua has opened up about the significant financial pressure and emotional exhaustion she and her husband Kevin Bahati are experiencing while constructing their new family home. In a related development, content creator Ciggie Johnson sparked a debate about generational success, arguing that owning an iPhone does not equate to achievement for Gen Z and millennials, particularly young women. Meanwhile, Forex trader King David FX generated online discussion by displaying a bar tab exceeding KSh1.1 million from a single night out, highlighting contrasting perspectives on wealth display and financial priorities among Kenyan content creators. Zuchu’s Mum Warned Her Diamond Is A Lothario: Tanzanian singer Khadija Kopa disclosed the advice she gave her daughter, singer Zuchu, before she began her relationship with fellow musician Diamond Platnumz. In a separate personal journey, Kenyan nurse Judy expressed exhaustion from living alone in the United States and missing her family, indicating she is considering a temporary return to Africa. Meanwhile, Diana Marua made an emotional return to her childhood home in Komarock Sector 3A, Nairobi, accompanied by her sisters as they revisited familiar streets and reflected on their family's past struggles. Religious Leaders Share Personal Details At Public Events: First Lady Rachel Ruto initiated nationwide prayer discussions during the National Prayer Breakfast Women's Convocation on May 27, 2026, emphasizing forgiveness and reconciliation amid political tensions. Pastor Victor Kanyari revealed that his daughter Sky Victor earns KSh 500,000 monthly from content creation, sharing family financial details publicly. Similarly, media personality and gospel minister Grace Ekirapa recounted being ostracized by her local church after her divorce from actor Pascal Tokodi, describing how she was "poisoned by the very caretakers trusted to heal her."

Based on 9 stories from today's coverage

politics

3 stories

Uhuru Faces Ruto in Court Over Sh16b Jubilee Funding Arrears: The Jubilee Party is heading to court to challenge President William Ruto's administration over an alleged non-payment of Sh16 billion in funding arrears, claiming this deliberate withholding of funds is aimed at undermining its operations. A political feud has simultaneously intensified between former President Uhuru Kenyatta and the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), with public exchanges between the two sides. At the 22nd National Prayer Breakfast in Nairobi, President Ruto and Deputy President Kithure Kindiki were observed setting aside their political rivalries despite preceding public exchanges, attending the event alongside political opponents.

Based on 3 stories from today's coverage

tech

6 stories

Africa Smartphone Market Gains 3%, Risks 28% Contraction: Africa's smartphone market saw a modest 3% year-on-year growth in Q1 2026, shipping 19.9 million units, yet a concerning outlook predicts a potential 28% contraction for the year due to rising costs and weakening consumer power. TRANSSION continues its strong hold on Africa's smartphone market, while HONOR is emerging as a significant challenger with remarkable growth. Additionally, Samsung has secured five spots in the global top 10 best-selling smartphones for Q1 2026, according to Counterpoint Research, showcasing a market divided between premium Apple devices and budget-friendly Android models. Kenya Regulators Impose Fines, Warn Against Violations: The Communications Authority of Kenya is set to impose significant financial penalties on mobile operators including Safaricom and Airtel for failing to meet new, stricter Quality of Service standards for voice calls and internet speeds. The National Transport and Safety Authority is bringing back traffic fines on June 1, implementing them without requiring court appearances. Meanwhile, Kaspersky has released a report highlighting the growing threat of tech-enabled abuse including digital stalking and doxing, which often goes unrecognized by victims.

Based on 6 stories from today's coverage

top

64 stories

Education CS Migos Ogamba confirms the death of 16 students at Utumishi Girls' Academy: Education Cabinet Secretary Migos Ogamba has confirmed the tragic death of 16 students at Utumishi Girls' Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, after a devastating dormitory fire. The incident also left 79 students hospitalized, with 7 remaining admitted. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has launched a probe into the fire incident, with Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen and DCI boss Mohamed Amin arriving at the scene. A parent at the school received a distress call at 3am reporting the fire, while information regarding the cause remains scarce. Parents and relatives are demanding better enforcement of disaster management protocols in boarding schools, with some calling for accountability. President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto have sent messages of condolence to the affected families, while Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika has expressed her sentiments on the tragedy. Matatu drivers accuse government of excluding them from fuel talks: Matatu operators in Kenya are protesting their exclusion from recent government discussions concerning fuel prices and their impact on the transport sector. Drivers and conductors have expressed dissatisfaction over diminishing revenue and exclusion from crucial discussions regarding the fuel crisis. The ongoing nationwide industrial action is disrupting public transportation across the country. 16 Killed in Utumishi Girls Academy Dormitory Fire: A devastating dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Nakuru County has resulted in the tragic deaths of 16 students and injuries to 79 others. The incident occurred around 12:45 am. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba ordered the midday release of students from Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil and urged parents to report through a government hotline. A parent alleges a locked emergency door worsened the tragedy. Senior government officials, including Cabinet Secretaries Murkomen and Ogamba, along with Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin, convened a crisis meeting at the school. Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka has urged the Kenyan government to implement urgent safety reforms in schools. Trump Directs U.S. Military to Build Ebola Quarantine Facility in Kenya in 7 Days: The United States Military is rapidly setting up a $50-bed quarantine facility in central Kenya within one week to house Americans exposed to Ebola. This directive follows the rapid spread of the virus in neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that no Ebola cases will be permitted into the United States. The Law Society of Kenya has strongly rejected a reported proposal to establish an Ebola treatment centre in Kenya for patients from other countries. Kenya's Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has stated that any agreements with foreign nations concerning the handling of individuals exposed to Ebola must adhere strictly to Kenyan law and public health regulations. Families demand justice after autopsies confirm gunshot deaths in Molo and Busia protests: Grief and anger are mounting as families of three victims from last week's fuel price protests in Molo demand justice, with autopsies confirming the deceased died from excessive bleeding due to gunshot wounds sustained during the demonstrations. Millie Odhiambo, a Member of Parliament, has urgently called for increased funding to bolster efforts in protecting women and children following a surge in reported killings. Meanwhile, years after devastating floods, over 600 families in Busia County continue to reside in internal displacement camps, facing prolonged hardship. KeNHA Issues 30-Day Demolition Notice to Traders on Key Roads: The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued a 30-day demolition notice to traders and developers along key roads in Western and Rift Valley regions, targeting all unauthorized structures within road reserves. Nairobi County has announced a six-month grace period for developers to regularise unauthorised but structurally sound buildings, with strict enforcement including demolitions beginning after December. One armed suspect has been arrested in Jamhuri, Nairobi, following a foiled robbery attempt. Families raise alarm as cases of missing children continue across the country: Families across Kenya are expressing grave concern as a disturbing trend of missing children continues, leaving many in a desperate search for their loved ones. In Kayole area of Nairobi, a local family is desperately searching for their 17-year-old child amid a wave of missing child reports. However, some cases have been resolved, with two missing children safely found and reunited with their family in Nairobi. Meanwhile, girls in Budalang'i camp are reportedly facing sexual exploitation due to poverty, highlighting the vulnerability of children in disadvantaged communities. Junior Starlets aim to advance in U-17 World Cup qualifiers against Uganda: Kenya's Junior Starlets are preparing to face Uganda in the U-17 Women's World Cup qualifiers at Nyayo Stadium, aiming to secure a victory to advance in the crucial tournament. The team secured a 1-1 draw in the first leg, giving them a slight advantage heading into the decisive return match in Nairobi. The team is feeling confident and intensifying training for this important fixture.

Thursday, May 28, 2026

The Kenya National Highways Authority has issued a 30-day demolition notice to traders and developers along key roads in Western and Rift Valley regions, targeting all unauthorized structures within road reserves. Nairobi County has announced a six-month grace period for developers to regularise unauthorised but structurally sound buildings, with strict enforcement including demolitions beginning after December.

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Kenyan lawmakers are expressing serious concerns that the new budget, with a significant funding shortfall, will negatively impact the country's education sector. President William Ruto has announced a Ksh2.4 billion government initiative to establish common-user facilities in every county aggregation and industrial park across Kenya, commencing in July 2025. Kenyan President William Ruto has also announced that the construction of an East African regional oil refinery, reportedly linked to Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote, is scheduled to commence later this year.

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7+3 videos

Ruto Details High-Stakes Talks With Matatu Stakeholders Amid Fresh Strike Fears - May 2026

President William Ruto has denied pressuring transport stakeholders to end their strike, asserting the decision was theirs after understanding the government's position on fuel prices. Matatu workers through the Matatu Workers Union and Long Distance Drivers and Conductors Association are threatening a nationwide strike over their exclusion from crucial fuel price reduction negotiations. The International Monetary Fund has advised Kenya and other nations to avoid prolonged fuel subsidies amidst rising global energy costs, warning they can worsen inflation and strain public finances.

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Trump Directs U.S. Military to Build Ebola Quarantine Facility in Kenya in 7 Days - May 2026

The United States Military is rapidly setting up a $50-bed quarantine facility in central Kenya within one week to house Americans exposed to Ebola, following the rapid spread of the virus in neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. The Katiba Institute has filed a lawsuit against the Kenyan government challenging the proposed establishment of Ebola quarantine and treatment facilities for US nationals exposed to the virus. The Law Society of Kenya has strongly rejected a reported proposal to establish an Ebola treatment centre in Kenya for patients from other countries. Kenya's Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has stated that any agreements with foreign nations concerning the handling of individuals exposed to Ebola must adhere strictly to Kenyan law and public health regulations.

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18+6 videos

Education CS Migos Ogamba confirms the death of 16 students at Utumishi Girls' Academy - May 2026

Education Cabinet Secretary Migos Ogamba has confirmed the death of 16 students at Utumishi Girls' Academy following a devastating dormitory fire in Gilgil, Nakuru County. The incident also left 79 students rushed to hospitals, with 7 remaining admitted. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched a probe into the fire incident, with DCI Eliud Lagat and Principal Secretary for Education Julius Bitok visiting the scene. Parents expressed anxiety as they flocked to the academy, with one parent disrupting Deputy Inspector General Douglas Lagat's address. Relatives of students are demanding better enforcement of disaster management protocols in boarding schools. President William Ruto led the nation in sending messages of condolence to the families of the victims.

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7+6 videos

Junior Starlets aim to advance in U-17 World Cup qualifiers against Uganda - May 2026

Kenya's Junior Starlets are preparing to face Uganda in the U-17 Women's World Cup qualifiers, aiming to secure a victory to advance in the crucial tournament. The team secured a 1-1 draw in the first leg, giving them a slight advantage heading into the decisive return match at Nyayo Stadium. The Junior Starlets are intensifying training for this crucial fixture and are feeling confident ahead of the important match.

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Families raise alarm as cases of missing children continue across the country - May 2026

Families across Kenya are expressing grave concern as a disturbing trend of missing children continues, leaving many in a desperate search for their loved ones. The Kayole area in Nairobi is experiencing a wave of missing child reports, with one local family desperately searching for their 17-year-old child. In a positive development, two missing children were safely found and reunited with their family in Nairobi after being reported missing. Meanwhile, girls in Budalang'i camp are reportedly facing sexual exploitation due to poverty, highlighting the vulnerability of children in disadvantaged communities.

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Matatu drivers accuse government of excluding them from fuel talks - May 2026

Matatu operators in Kenya are protesting their exclusion from recent government discussions concerning fuel prices and their impact on the transport sector. Drivers and conductors have expressed their exclusion from crucial discussions regarding the fuel crisis. The operators are expressing dissatisfaction over diminishing revenue and exclusion from discussions concerning fuel prices. This comes as Kenya experiences a nationwide matatu strike as operators protest escalating fuel prices, disrupting public transportation across the country.

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Kenyan influencer Diana Marua made an emotional return to her childhood home in Komarock Sector 3A, Nairobi, accompanied by her sisters, revisiting familiar streets and her former primary school, reflecting on her family's past struggles. Earlier, she revealed the significant financial strain and emotional exhaustion she and her husband Kevin Bahati are facing while constructing their new family home. Separately, Kenyan Nurse Judy expressed considering a temporary return to Africa due to exhaustion from living alone in the United States and missing her family.

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First Lady Rachel Ruto prompted public discussion after calling for nationwide prayer during the National Prayer Breakfast Women's Convocation on May 27, 2026, citing the theme of 'Forgiveness and Reconciliation' amid political tensions. In a separate development, media personality and gospel minister Grace Ekirapa detailed the ostracization she faced from her local church after her divorce from actor Pascal Tokodi, describing the experience as being 'poisoned by the very caretakers trusted to heal her.' Meanwhile, Pastor Victor Kanyari revealed that his daughter, Sky Victor, earns Ksh 500,000 monthly from her content creation endeavors.

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Based on 64 stories from today's coverage
TRANSSION still dominates Africa’s smartphone market, but HONOR can’t be ignored
Samsung claims 5 spots in global top 10 best-selling smartphones for Q1 2026
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Africa Smartphone Market Grew 3% in Q1 2026 - May 2026

Africa's smartphone market experienced a modest 3% year-on-year growth in Q1 2026, shipping 19.9 million units, though analysts predict a potential 28% contraction for the full year due to rising costs and weakening consumer purchasing power. TRANSSION continues to dominate Africa's smartphone market while HONOR emerges as a significant challenger showing remarkable growth. Elsewhere, Samsung secured five spots in the global top 10 best-selling smartphones for Q1 2026 according to Counterpoint Research, highlighting the market division between premium Apple devices and budget-friendly Android models.

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I&M Bank MTN Begins NSE Trading After Sh23.2bn Oversubscription
CMA Clears Pergamon Funds as Unit Trust Market Expands
Publishers Seek Bigger Share of Kenya’s Growing Education Economy
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I&M Bank MTN Begins NSE Trading After Sh23.2bn Oversubscription - May 2026

I&M Bank has successfully listed its first tranche of Kenya Shillings-denominated Medium-Term Note on the Nairobi Securities Exchange following an oversubscribed public offer. The Capital Markets Authority has approved the registration of the Pergamon Investment Bank Unit Trust Scheme, adding new regulated investment products to Kenya's expanding capital markets. Separately, Kenya's book and publishing industry is aiming for a larger slice of the nation's expanding education economy, driven by increased government spending and growing demand for local content.

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