The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) in Kenya has implemented new regulations requiring mandatory clearance for all genetically modified organism (GMO) imports. This directive aims to enhance oversight and ensure compliance with biosafety laws.

• All imports of genetically modified plants, animals, microorganisms, and veterinary vaccines must now receive clearance from the NBA before release into the country.
• The directive was issued by Ann Karimi, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the NBA, to government agencies including the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and KEPHIS.
• The Biosafety Act, 2009, established the NBA to regulate GMOs, safeguarding human, animal, and environmental health through risk assessments and approvals.

Kenya is initiating a significant reform of its skills development system to ensure graduates are job-ready upon completion of their studies, addressing the growing disconnect between education and labor market needs.

• The initiative was highlighted at the Skill Up Africa 2026 forum in Nairobi, hosted by Nation Media Group (NMG).
• Key stakeholders, including Cabinet Secretary for Labour and Social Protection Alfred Mutua and the Federation of Kenya Employers (FKE), are pushing for curriculum reforms informed by industry feedback.
• The goal is to transform educational institutions into "recruitment centres" where graduates are immediately employable, bridging persistent gaps in technical, digital, and soft skills identified by employers.

An estimated 48.5 million people in East Africa require urgent humanitarian assistance this year, according to a warning from the United Nations.

• 48.5 million people need assistance in East Africa in 2026.
• The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) issued the warning.
• Key drivers of humanitarian needs include conflict, displacement, climate shocks, disease, food insecurity, and the potential spread of Ebola from the DRC.