Kenya Seeks Sh2.6bn to Boost Ebola Preparedness for First 100 Cases: Kenya's Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has requested Sh 2.6 billion from Parliament to bolster the nation's Ebola Virus Disease preparedness, specifically focusing on the first 100 cases. The government plans to establish a quarantine and isolation facility at Laikipia Air Base for American citizens exposed to Ebola in neighboring countries, proceeding without public consultation citing urgency of public health threats. Chaotic scenes at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport have exposed significant weaknesses in Kenya's disease surveillance and passenger screening, raising alarms about the nation's preparedness for potential outbreaks. Kenya is reportedly considering a deal to host a 50-bed quarantine and treatment facility at Laikipia Air Base. Israel eyes bigger role in expanding global markets for Kenyan flower exports: Israel aims to enhance Kenya's agricultural export sector, particularly flowers, by leveraging its global trade networks and technological expertise. A new carton packaging technology is being introduced to Kenyan flower exporters to combat significant post-farm losses and improve flower quality upon arrival in overseas markets. These developments come as electric two-wheeler manufacturer YADEA has officially entered the Kenyan market, launching the KIFA electric motorcycle specifically designed for the local boda boda industry, expanding its East African footprint. School Unrest Crisis Deepens With 100 Schools Affected: A significant wave of unrest has impacted 100 schools across Kenya within a single term, with widespread indiscipline and poor management escalating into a nationwide crisis. A recent surge in school fire incidents has sparked widespread debate regarding the government's perceived laxity in addressing these issues. Former Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i has voiced strong accusations of government negligence following a fire incident at the Ministry of Public Service. The family of a medical student found deceased at Village Park Hotel Keumbu in Kisii is also seeking answers, with the mother of the student dying in a road accident while traveling to Utumishi Secondary School. Kwale Residents Demand Land Title Deeds Amid Historical Claims: Residents of Waa, Ng'ombeni, Tiwi, Kinondo, and Diani in Kwale County are demanding the national government conduct land surveys and issue title deeds, having lived in these areas for extended periods without legal ownership documents. Kwale County has separately announced plans to hire 100 new health workers following the swearing-in of a new health services management board. The Isiolo Law Courts has urged for alternative dispute resolution methods to foster peace within the community. President Ruto Lands at Waterkloof Air Force Base for Historic South Africa State Visit: President William Ruto of Kenya arrived at Waterkloof Air Force Base for a three-day State Visit to South Africa, aiming to bolster diplomatic and economic ties. The visit highlights Kenya's ongoing reliance on leased aircraft as its official presidential jet remains grounded in the Netherlands, with Ruto traveling aboard a privately chartered Boeing 737-800. This state visit aims to deepen the existing strategic partnership between the two nations. Meanwhile, President Ruto has commenced the two-day visit to advance bilateral relations. Alliance High closed indefinitely after fire incident: Alliance High School has been closed indefinitely following a fire that destroyed about 200 mattresses, with eleven students being held by police in connection with a planned strike linked to the incident. Parents were urgently requested to collect their children following the Thursday morning fire. This incident is part of a disturbing wave of unrest and fires sweeping across Kenyan schools, leading to destruction, injuries, and deaths. Recent fires at Utumishi Girls Academy claiming 16 students and Hillside Endarasha Academy with 21 pupils have reignited debate on the safety of boarding schools, prompting calls for government intervention. Opposition MPs defend Uhuru, criticize Ruto over economy: Opposition Members of Parliament have defended retired President Uhuru Kenyatta against accusations by the UDA party that he ruined the nation's economy during his tenure. This political defense comes as the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has summoned 35 Members of the Narok County Assembly following a physical altercation on the assembly floor on May 19. Separately, the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner is directing businesses handling personal data to register or face penalties of up to Ksh5 million, representing a government crackdown on data protection compliance. North Rift Farmers Face Fertilizer Shortage As Planting Season Nears: Farmers in the North Rift Valley region are facing a severe shortage of fertilizer, impacting their ability to prepare for the upcoming planting season. The Ministry of Energy has rejected Kenya Power's request to increase electricity tariffs starting July. Meanwhile, the Kajiado county government and the Mpesa Foundation have collaborated to improve maternal healthcare, with a maternity ward now operational at Ngatataek Level 4 Hospital. Disability Rights Groups Demand Employment Opportunities In Marsabit: Persons with disabilities in Marsabit County have accused the county government of marginalization, citing a lack of employment opportunities, contracts, and representation. Over 5 groups in the Sabaki ward of Magarini constituency, Kilifi County, have received various forms of aid from the county government, including disabled community members, pastors, and bodaboda operators. The Mombasa County Government is also preparing to launch a road safety training program for bodaboda operators.
