Weekly News Brief
Jul 21-27
1977 stories

Weekly: July 21-27, 2025

Updated July 27, 2025
Jul 21-27

This week in Kenya, President Ruto warned against parental support for youth protests amid rising tensions over activist Boniface Mwangi's arrest. Fuel prices increased significantly, while 42 counties received funding for climate initiatives. ODM faced internal strife after a collapsed deal, and security concerns grew with multiple arrests related to violent incidents. The education sector struggled with funding challenges as calls for reform intensified.

Weekly Breakdown by Category

Top Stories

454 stories this week

Top Stories - Week's Highlights

President William Ruto emphasizes the need for ambitious national goals, urging Kenyans to abandon a mindset of mediocrity during a church service in Machakos. David Maraga’s crowdfunding movement aims to challenge President Ruto's leadership ahead of the 2027 elections. A ranger training event is set for the 2025 Kenya endurance challenge at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy. Nyali's Links Road will close for six months from now for major flood reconstruction, affecting traffic near Premier Hospital. SHA has issued a fresh payment notice while reviewing claims submitted. The government has introduced new regulations targeting 10 universities for submitting false student data. The government plans employee appraisals across all State departments to enhance performance. The Ministry of Lands faces scrutiny over fraudulent land titles and delays in resolving land cases. Churches advocate for changes in laws impacting children, including school curriculum adjustments. Transporters have criticized Hanifa for alleged defamatory remarks and are awaiting a response. An MP has filed a lawsuit against IG Kanja, DCI Amin, and DPP Ingonga after being charged with terrorism. CS Kipchumba Murkomen states the government will continue pursuing terrorism charges against violent protesters. He spoke during a security engagement in Eldoret. Juja MP George Koimburi has been charged with orchestrating his own abduction, as confirmed in court on Wednesday. Chief Justice Martha Koome distances herself from comments used by the DPP in justifying terrorism charges against recent protesters. The NTSA addresses an audit report claiming it has lost control of its Transport Integrated Management Systems (TIMS). CS Chirchir announces the resumption of stalled road projects after the government disbursed necessary funds. Regular tickets for CHAN are now priced at 200 Kenyan shillings as the government tightens protocols for fans. President Ruto states that the Kenya Pipeline Company will be listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange by September as part of privatization efforts. The Knut Nairobi branch reports over 200 promoted teachers have yet to receive their pay rise, raising concerns among its members. Two violent robbers were apprehended after using M-Pesa to transfer 20,000 shillings from a victim's account before stealing her phone. Many Kenyans express skepticism online regarding the upgraded DCI Call Centre, despite authorities promoting it as a move towards accountability. Stephen Munyakho, convicted in 2013 for a murder in Yemen, is set to return home on a deportation flight after being issued a temporary pass. MP Koimburi pleads not guilty to charges of giving false information regarding his staged abduction case. Sifuna's bold criticisms of Ruto and involvement in ODM have raised questions about Leadership and loyalty within the party. Nairobi Water faces challenges due to poor debt recovery, despite revenue rising from 8 billion to nearly 12 billion shillings. A deal worth 1.3 billion Kenyan shillings aims to provide 115,000 electric cookers to low-income households. CJ Koome comments on the numerous terrorism charges against demonstrators, emphasizing her lack of influence over the decisions made by the DPP. Patients criticize the SHA for denying access to medical care due to its contribution policy, raising concerns about services. Police officer faces court orders over mishandling of CCTV footage. Meanwhile, a petition seeks to bar President Ruto from using personal funds for a State House church. MP Barasa ordered to pay 7.5 million shillings for defamation from 2017. Blogger Ndiang'ui Kinyagia expresses fears for his life ahead of a court hearing in 2025. The Law Society of Kenya seeks to cease representation of IT expert Kinyagia due to conflicting details. President Ruto launches a campaign to boost tourism, featuring live coverage of the wildebeest migration in Masai Mara, aiming for five million visitors by 2027. In Nyeri, local business leaders plan to hire private security to protect against vandalism during protests. A recent report highlights the hotspots for land acquisition around Nairobi. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions addresses concerns regarding Ruto's influence in protest-related terrorism cases. Former DR Congo president Kabila faces treason trial as current President Tshisekedi accuses him of supporting rebels. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba has confirmed that school capitation allocations for secondary students remain unchanged despite funding concerns.

Videos

876 stories this week

Videos - Week's Highlights

Residents in Njoguini, Kirinyaga mourn Peter Macharia, 21, killed by police during the Saba Saba protests while harvesting tea leaves near his home. Residents of Katukomuk benefit from a thriving gold mining business, improving their livelihoods significantly in the area. Waziri Kipchumba Murkomen criticizes the Law Society of Kenya and opposition leaders for supporting alleged terrorists linked to property destruction during protests. A report reveals illegal kidney surgeries at Mediheal hospitals. The Ministry of Health is investigating these serious allegations of organ trafficking. Education Cabinet Secretary Migos Ogamba states the government lacks adequate funding for secondary education, revealing only 16,900 shillings per student can be managed this year. Mudavadi urges Kenyans to register as voters, emphasizing the importance of participation beyond just discussing two-term limits.

Politics

50 stories this week

Politics - Week's Highlights

Former Chief Justice David Maraga has raised over 500,000 shillings in two days for his 2027 presidential bid, indicating public support for his campaign. Western Kenya politicians unite to challenge President Ruto’s government, which may concern both Ruto and Raila. Former Chief Justice David Maraga reports over 500,000 shillings raised in 48 hours for his 2027 presidential bid, indicating a desire for political change among Kenyans. Western Kenya politicians unite against President Ruto's government, posing a challenge for both Ruto and Raila Odinga. Roots Party Leader George Wajackoyah states he may withdraw from the 2027 presidential race to support a younger candidate. Former Chief Justice David Maraga promises transparency in handling campaign donations. President William Ruto criticizes opponents for using deceptive slogans in their campaigns. Political analyst Prof. Macharia Munene challenges President Ruto's views on parental influence in children's moral ethics. MP Ndindi Nyoro criticizes government’s Sh44.8 billion debt via Talanta Stadium bond. Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi criticizes Sifuna's anti-Ruto remarks, urging ODM to prioritize realignment before the 2027 elections. Parliament urged to address a legislative gap to support IEBC’s preparations for the 2027 polls. Mwangaza plans to retaliate against 49 MCAs and 10 MPs who supported her impeachment, signaling a shift in Meru politics. Hezekiah Oyugi's family loses their Lavington house after a lengthy court battle. Parliament faces criticism for neglecting audit bodies, hindering important legislative amendments.

Business

91 stories this week

Business - Week's Highlights

42 counties receive 6.97 billion shillings from the National Treasury for climate projects, aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability. Retailers in Kenya attribute low insurance uptake to high costs and slim profit margins, impacting coverage for many businesses. Kenya's miraa farmers gain access to the Djibouti market after successful export clearance. This offers new opportunities for local growers and traders. Detached house prices in Muthaiga and Karen rise due to low supply. The rapid growth was noted in the second quarter of this year. Australia will lift the ban on US beef imports, easing previous trade tensions. The government plans to list the Kenya Pipeline Company in an initial public offering (IPO) in September, as announced by President William Ruto. Safaricom has surpassed 50 million customers in Kenya ahead of its 25th anniversary in October. Stanley Kamanguya has been reinstated as the CEO of the ICT Authority following a court ruling.

Sports

59 stories this week

Sports - Week's Highlights

Shadrack Maluki has been elected as the new President of the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) and will focus on preparing for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Meanwhile, top athletes including Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet are set to compete at the Mini World Championships at Ulinzi Sports Complex, aiming for Tokyo tickets. CECAFA expresses disappointment over Kenya's last-minute withdrawal from the Four Nations Tournament, affecting local football participation. Kenya finalizes its team for the World Championships in Tokyo, with selection held at Ulinzi Sports Complex in Langata. Junior Starlets coach Mildred Cheche is participating in FIFA's Elite Performance Coach Mentorship Program in Zurich. Kenya has withdrawn from pre-CHAN friendlies in Tanzania due to poor pitch conditions. Corporate sponsors are now supporting the PGK Equator Tour 2025, boosting Kenyan professional golfers' chances for the Olympics. Corporate sponsors support the PGK Equator Tour 2025, aiding Kenyan professional golfers' chances for the Olympics. KCB Rugby, Kabras, and defending champions Quins advance to the quarter-finals of the Driftwood Sevens in Mombasa after strong performances.

Tech

37 stories this week

Tech - Week's Highlights

Schneider Electric launches Zeigo Hub, a digital platform aimed at decarbonizing supply chains. Standard Chartered reviews its sustainability efforts in Kenya's economy. Young Scientists Kenya trains 170 teachers in AI. Bolt introduces Family Profiles in Kenya, enabling users to book and pay for rides for up to nine people. A World Bank report reveals that 49% of Kenyan youth prefer mobile money over traditional banks. Absa and Visa have renewed their partnership to enhance digital payments and financial access in Africa, focusing on small and medium enterprises. Luno launches crypto staking in Nigeria, offering users up to 18% returns on digital assets. dLocal partners with RizRemit to streamline cross-border remittances between Africa and Asia through a unified integration. NTT DATA appoints Vinesh Maharaj as Director of Smart Manufacturing for Middle East and Africa, focusing on digital transformation. Safaricom surpasses 50 million mobile subscribers as it prepares to celebrate 25 years of service in Kenya. Tecno launches the SPARK 40 Series in Kenya featuring AMOLED displays, wireless charging, and AI in entry-level smartphones. Acer shifts focus in Kenya to promote digital equity in education, partnering with the public sector for digital learning initiatives. NTT DATA appoints Vinesh Maharaj as Director of Smart Manufacturing for Middle East and Africa, emphasizing its commitment to digital transformation. Safaricom surpasses 50 million mobile subscribers in Kenya as it prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary. Tecno launches the SPARK 40 Series in Kenya, featuring AMOLED displays, wireless charging, and AI capabilities for entry-level smartphones. Acer shifts focus in Kenya towards digital equity in education, prioritizing partnerships to support the country's digital learning initiatives. LOOP has launched a flexible 30-day digital loan for registered users, offering up to 100,000 Kenyan Shillings for short-term cash flow needs. Truecaller has appointed Saraswati Agarwal as Regional Sales Head for Ad Solutions in the Middle East and Africa. Google announces a $37 million AI investment in Africa and opens its first AI Community Center in Accra, Ghana.

Entertainment

27 stories this week

Entertainment - Week's Highlights

Fitness coach Frankie JustGymIt praises his baby mamas, Maureen Waititu and Corazon Kwamboka, for their effective co-parenting collaboration. Comedian Eric Omondi visits KK Mwenyewe’s family, appealing for support ahead of the late content creator's burial in Lari. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has announced charges against activist Boniface Mwangi, including terrorism facilitation and unlawful possession of items. Khalif Kairo warns against illicit practices some pursue for quick wealth. President Ruto donates 1 million shillings to the family of late comedian KK Mwenyewe. Mungai Eve threatens to expose married men in her DMs. Pastor Dorcas Rigathi addresses Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah's claims of her controlling her husband, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, during a clergy meeting in the US. Kenya will host CHAN 2025, marking a significant moment for local talent and national pride beyond just football. Pastor Dorcas Rigathi addresses Kikuyu MP Kimani Ichung’wah's claims of her controlling her husband, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, during a clergy meeting in the US. Kenya prepares to host CHAN 2025, a significant football tournament showcasing homegrown talent, marking a moment of pride and potential economic benefit for the country. Treasury CS John Mbadi warns of potential layoffs and campus closures at public universities due to financial constraints. Free university education faces an uncertain future.