Weekly News Brief
Jun 16-22
2033 stories

Weekly: June 16-22, 2025

Updated June 22, 2025
Jun 16-22

This week in Kenya, a gold mine collapse in West Pokot claimed one life, while protests for justice over teacher Albert Ojwang escalated in Nairobi. President Ruto pledged support to Ojwang's family and engaged with governors on urban development. Meanwhile, a cholera outbreak affected six counties, and MPs addressed a budget deficit. In sports, Harambee Starlets triumphed at CECAFA, marking a week full of unrest and significant concerns for Kenyans.

Weekly Breakdown by Category

Top Stories

386 stories this week

Top Stories - Week's Highlights

Nairobi and other regions are expected to receive rainfall this week, with cold temperatures forecasted. Meanwhile, pressure mounts on DIG Lagat as he steps aside amid investigations into blogger Ojwang’s death in custody. In legal matters, a court has halted the impeachment debate of Isiolo Governor, while the High Court has issued orders affecting students and the ongoing impeachment process. Food4Education advocates for a phased approach to ensure school meals become a right for children. Ruto emphasizes his commitment to Kenya's transformation, stating he will not be deterred by criticism. Ichung'wah calls for respect towards police amid recent violence concerns. KeNHA warns of traffic disruptions on Mombasa Road affecting motorists heading to Nairobi. OCS Samson Talaam detained for 15 days linked to the murder of blogger Albert Ojwang. Judiciary commits to justice amid police brutality concerns. Two police constables interdicted for shooting an unarmed civilian during protests. HELB has opened its portal for KMTC students to apply for loans. Memorial event for Ngugi wa Thiong'o to take place at the University of Nairobi. SHA has introduced a new payment method to benefit 650,000 Kenyans, enhancing accessibility to its services. Ruto has issued a notice to school principals and parents to ensure compliance with the school fees directive. Ben Githae has appealed to the Gen Z community for forgiveness following backlash he's faced for three weeks. A three-judge bench will hear a petition regarding a 4.6 trillion Kenyan Shillings debt from the Kenyatta era, with Senator Omtatah among those seeking action against former officials. Two people were killed and 19 injured in a matatu crash at Daraja Moja in Kisii County, reportedly involving speeding matatus. DIG Lagat has recorded a statement with IPOA related to the death of Albert Ojwang, amidst ongoing investigations into his death. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki called for public scrutiny of the government's new radical and bold commitments by top officials. The court has reinstated Isiolo County Clerk Boru, who was removed by the County Assembly Service Board amid attempts to oust the Governor. Police are searching for a gunman responsible for the fatal shooting of officer Benard Ithai in Thika, who died after being hospitalized. IG Kanja has appealed for public cooperation following the murder of a police officer, emphasizing efforts to dismantle criminal networks. Speaker Wetangula addressed a situation in Parliament where rival MPs clashed over the wearing of party colors. The taxman has activated a tax amnesty for eligible individuals ahead of the June 30, 2025 deadline for applications. Charlene Ruto attributes rising tensions between Gen Z and older Kenyans to millennials. Boda boda riders plan protests on June 25, leading to a cancellation of a major Nairobi event. Bishops call for disbanding the DCI amid concerns over police brutality. President Ruto affirms his government’s transformation agenda, dismissing threats and insults. Meanwhile, the Kenya government has ordered citizens to evacuate from Israel and Iran amidst ongoing conflicts.

Videos

1069 stories this week

Videos - Week's Highlights

An ongoing investigation related to the murder of blogger Albert Ojwang has led to the detention of police officers, including OCS Samson Taalam, as new details emerge. Albert Ojwang's death has raised concerns over conditions in detention centers. Meanwhile, a trader shot by police is receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital. Naibu Inspekta Jenerali wa Polisi Eliud Lagat has been summoned by IPOA for questioning regarding the murder of blogger Albert Ojwang. Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat recorded a statement with IPOA today regarding ongoing investigations. A report indicates a significant increase in suicide cases among men in Kenya from 2021 to 2025. The findings highlight a growing mental health concern that needs urgent attention. Rose Njeri has been released from custody after the court ruled that the prosecution had a weak case against her, following allegations of cybercrime.

Politics

46 stories this week

Politics - Week's Highlights

Gachagua dismisses rigging fears, stating the UDA manifesto is unrealistic. Ruto's allies advise Meru voters to ignore Gachagua's upcoming rallies. Jubilee Party fined 3 million shillings for unlawful dismissal of directors. Ex-Senator Kivuti explains why he declined President Ruto's job offer, stating it undermined Mr. Muturi. Meanwhile, pundits suggest Ruto has ceded too much power to his allies. Ex-Governor Wa Iria questions the legality of evidence in his 543 million shillings graft case. Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi rejects calls for Western unity, asserting it should support a Luhya candidate for 2027, not boost Ruto's re-election. Former IPOA chairperson Macharia Njeru criticizes the agency's independence, citing inefficiencies in its operations amid public scrutiny. Kindiki calls for unity as the government proposes to reshape Kenya's governance and enhance the fight against corruption. Raila criticizes the cancellation of the Adani JKIA deal, citing lost opportunities. Gachagua calls on Meru to unite against Ruto during his tour, emphasizing the need for voters to stand firm to prevent Ruto's re-election. President Ruto responds, vowing to ignore opposition attacks.

Business

58 stories this week

Business - Week's Highlights

Kenya’s mini-grid solar operators are earning revenue by selling carbon credits. Meanwhile, Kakuzi will invest over 1.2 billion shillings in commercial and social impact projects. Banda Homes has entered official liquidation as a court appoints a liquidator following financial challenges. Government audit reveals 2.08 billion shillings in unpaid salaries owed to university staff for the 2023/2024 financial year. A government audit shows 2.08 billion shillings in salaries owed to university staff for 2023/2024 are still unpaid. 82 percent of Kenyans faced digital fraud threats in late 2024. Directors of Africa Spirits Limited have appointed Peter Kahi from PKF Consulting Limited as an administrator for the liquor business owned by tycoon Kariuki. Kenya Tourism Board aims for a 12.5% increase in European visitors this year, focusing on boosting the tourism sector's growth.

Sports

62 stories this week

Sports - Week's Highlights

Kenya Sevens rugby players Patrick Odongo and Kevin Wekesa perform well in India's Rugby Premier League. Kisumu County term two games start Wednesday with Kisumu Day, Otieno Oyoo, and Nyakach Girls vying for titles. FIFA referee Josephine Wanjiku will officiate at the Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco from July 5 to July 26. Ronwen Williams of Mamelodi Sundowns aims to make history at the FIFA Club World Cup alongside teammate Peter Shalulile, who targets goals and glory. Asumbi Girls are favorites in Homa Bay County games. Nzoia Sugar FC gets financial relief from West Kenya Sugar Company. Kenya women’s team, Divas, impress with a strong performance against the USA. Kenya's polo team overcame an early setback to win the Calvary Cup in Harare. Liverpool begins their Premier League title defense against Bournemouth on August 15. FKF CEO Ndege suggests extending term limits from four to five years while seeking to expand the women's league amid lack of sponsorship. Kenya faces Tanzania in a decisive Cecafa match, with both Harambee Starlets and Twiga Stars tied on nine points after three matches. Makini Schools launched a new multi-purpose sports complex and introduced the Makini Sports Festival on Friday. Athlete refugees showcased their ambitions at World Refugee Day celebrations in Kaptagat, training under former world champion Janeth Jepkosgei. 'Small Faith' looks to improve after her third Diamond League win in Paris, beating Bahrain's Olympic champion Winfred Yavi twice this season.

Entertainment

26 stories this week

Entertainment - Week's Highlights

Detectives are pursuing two police officers linked to the death of teacher Albert Ojwang while in custody, prompting national outrage. Comedienne Eunice Mammito revealed her boyfriend on Father's Day, sparking curiosity about her child's father. Nevnina Onyango shared a heartfelt tribute to her late husband, Albert Ojwang, on her first Father’s Day without him, following his death in police custody. Families of “Gen Z” victims plan a peaceful commemoration march on June 25, 2025, to honor those lost during last year's protests against the Finance Bill. Nairobi County Governor Sakaja denies links to individuals involved in protests, emphasizing acts of destruction were by criminals.

Tech

22 stories this week

Tech - Week's Highlights

X (formerly Twitter) now provides detailed changelogs instead of vague updates. Meanwhile, DStv is piloting weekly subscription plans in Uganda to better suit customer finances. The Government of Kenya will install Wi-Fi in 55 universities and TVETs, with Rift Valley receiving 18 installations. Airtel Africa reports 73.4 million data users in Sub-Saharan Africa. Mastercard partners with enza to connect African fintech companies to its network. This aims to boost fintech growth across the continent. Yellow Card teams up with Visa to enhance stablecoin payments in emerging markets, focusing on cross-border transactions. itel launches CITY 100 smartphone in Kenya, priced at 11,200 Kenyan Shillings, targeting young users with durable features and smart technology. Visa appoints Tareq Muhmood as the new Regional President for Central and Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa, overseeing operations in these regions.