President William Ruto has assented to three new Bills passed by the National Assembly, aimed at enhancing disaster response, protecting forests, and promoting equitable development.

• The National Disaster Risk Management Bill establishes a framework for managing disasters, creating the National Disaster Risk Management Authority and County Disaster Risk Management Committees.
• The Forest Conservation and Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025, strengthens forestry management and research, reinforcing the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI).
• The Equalisation Fund Appropriations Bill, 2025, allocates Sh16.8 billion to 34 marginalized counties for essential services like water, roads, health, and electricity.

A fuel tanker exploded along the River Sagana area in Kirinyaga County on Thursday night, killing two people and causing significant traffic disruptions on the busy Nairobi-Nyeri Highway.

• Two individuals died instantly following the explosion.
• Firefighters from Murang’a County responded swiftly to extinguish the blaze.
• The incident led to the temporary closure of the Nairobi-Nyeri Highway, paralyzing traffic and forcing motorists to seek alternative routes due to thick smoke and flames.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has welcomed President William Ruto's assent to the National Disaster Risk Management Bill, 2023, a significant step towards enhancing disaster preparedness and response in Kenya.

• The new law establishes a comprehensive framework for disaster risk management, shifting focus from reactive response to proactive risk reduction.
• Key provisions include the establishment of the National Disaster Risk Management Authority to coordinate efforts and mandatory disaster preparedness plans for public institutions like schools.
• This legislation follows recent deadly incidents, such as the fire at Utumishi Girls Academy, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety and emergency systems.