August 11 - August 17, 2025
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, August 11 to Sunday, August 17, 2025, organized by weekday.
Monday
August 11
Govt Details Free SHA Services; KNH Responds in Kidney Saga; Nairobi Hospital Suspends Price Hikes - August 2025
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has detailed the free outpatient services now available at public health facilities (Level 2 to Level 4) under the Social Health Authority (SHA) for all registered Kenyans. In separate hospital news, Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) issued a statement clarifying the circumstances around the removal of a transplanted kidney from a patient after a police report was filed. Meanwhile, The Nairobi Hospital has suspended its recently announced service price review following significant backlash and discussions with leading medical insurance providers. The suspension came after 12 insurers temporarily removed the hospital from their provider panels.
Govt Plans New Airport and Ksh293.6B PPP Funding; Court Halts Rice Imports - August 2025
The Kenyan government plans to construct a new airport to replace the existing Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to address infrastructure challenges. To fund such mega projects, the National Treasury plans to raise Ksh293.6 billion in the 2025/26 financial year through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements. This strategy aims to reduce reliance on domestic borrowing. In a separate matter, the High Court in Kerugoya temporarily halted the government's plan to import 500,000 metric tonnes of rice duty-free. This decision followed a petition by the Farmers Party, which argued the importation would negatively impact local farmers.
DCI Uncovers Graves and Counterfeit Dollars; EACC Recovers Sh20mn Land - August 2025
The DCI in Kilifi has uncovered seven shallow graves containing human bones and skulls in Kwa Binzaro village, following an exhumation order related to suspected cult practices. In a separate operation in Nairobi's Ngara area, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations apprehended six individuals for allegedly manufacturing counterfeit US dollars and seized fake currency. Additionally, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) successfully recovered public land in Kakamega valued at Sh20 million. A court nullified the land's illegal allocation to a private individual, as it had been designated for civil servants' housing.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
August 12
Teachers Face Pay-Slip Alterations and Strike Threat Amidst 15,000 New Vacancies - August 2025
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has announced over 15,000 vacancies for teachers and school administrators, with applications closing on August 25. This recruitment aligns with new promotion guidelines valid until June 30, 2026. As this occurs, lecturers at Moi University have issued a seven-day strike notice to begin on August 20, 2025, citing failure to pay June and July salaries and non-implementation of the 2021–2025 CBA. Separately, the government plans to alter payslips for teachers to address double deductions for medical insurance, according to Julius Bitok, Principal Secretary in the State Department of Basic Education.
President Ruto Announces Youth Bank, Training Project, and Sh163M Fund - August 2025
President William Ruto announced several initiatives aimed at youth employment during International Youth Day celebrations in Kakamega. He announced the establishment of a new Youth Enterprise Investment Bank to provide financing, credit guarantees, and capacity building for youth-led businesses. The government also plans to train 90,000 young people and certify 20,000 others under the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Project to combat unemployment. Additionally, President Ruto issued a Sh163 million cheque to support 816 young Kenyans traveling abroad for work under the Kazi Majuu programme, with the funds set to cover airfares, visas, and settlement costs.
New Graves Discovered and Fresh Evidence Emerges in Shakahola Cult Case - August 2025
Homicide detectives have discovered new shallow graves containing human remains in Kwa Binzaro village, near Shakahola Forest, where over 400 individuals died in a doomsday cult tragedy. The discovery was made on August 11 following a public tip-off. In a related development, the DCI in Kilifi uncovered seven shallow graves containing human bones and skulls in the same village. Meanwhile, the High Court in Mombasa has adjourned the murder trial of preacher Paul Nthenge McKenzie and 28 co-accused. The prosecution announced the discovery of fresh evidence which could introduce more suspects and witnesses to the case.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
August 13
KRA Announces Tax Exemption, CBK Lowers Lending Rate & HELB Introduces New Loan - August 2025
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has announced tax exemptions on gratuity payments for certain employees, effective July 1, 2025, as part of changes in the Finance Act, 2025. In a separate move, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has lowered its lending rate, a decision expected to result in cheaper loans for Kenyans as the economy shows signs of recovery. Additionally, the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has introduced a new loan facility, the Training Revolving Fund, specifically for civil servants to pursue higher education and advance their professional qualifications.
US Sanctions DRC Mineral Networks, Issues Kenya Student Visa Warning & Charges Haitian Gang Leader - August 2025
The United States has announced criminal charges and a $5 million reward for the arrest of Haitian gang leader Jimmy Cherizier, alias Barbecue, a move expected to provide relief for Kenyan Police officers in the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission. Separately, the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi issued a warning to Kenyan students in the United States, advising that skipping classes, withdrawing from programs, or dropping out could lead to visa revocation and affect future eligibility. The US also sanctioned four entities involved in the illicit mineral trade in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These measures are intended to disrupt the financing of armed conflict and human rights abuses in eastern DRC.
Govt Launches Student Housing, Expands Housing Levy Use & Addresses Drug Shortages - August 2025
President William Ruto has launched the construction of the Tom Mboya University Student’s village in Homa Bay, which is the first student accommodation project under the Affordable Housing program. The government also announced that Housing Levy deductions will continue, with plans to expand their use beyond affordable housing to include various infrastructure projects. In addition, President Ruto has challenged the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) to achieve a 100 per cent order fill rate to address drug shortages in Kenya. This followed KEMSA's disclosure that its current fill rate is 57 per cent, which prompted the launch of a 100-day Rapid Results Initiative.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
August 14
Government and BBC Clash Over 'Maai Mahiu Child Sex Trade' Documentary - August 2025
Kenyan government officials have disputed the contents of a BBC documentary titled 'Madams: Exposing Kenya’s Child Sex Trade'. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen accused the BBC of fabricating parts of the documentary and stated that police investigations found several interviewees lied about being minors to receive promised sponsorships. Murkomen further claimed that some subjects were promised substantial payments and benefits to participate. In response, the BBC has denied the government's allegations that it paid or coached any of the interviewees for its exposé on child trafficking in Maai Mahiu.
US Accuses Kenyan Forces of Killings and Sanctions Officials Over Cuban Doctor Program - August 2025
The United States has accused Kenyan security forces of numerous extrajudicial killings during 2024, particularly following the "Gen Z" protests against tax increases. The accusations are detailed in the US State Department's 2024 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices. Separately, the US has imposed visa restrictions on government officials from several African nations, including potentially Kenya, for their involvement with Cuba's medical missions. The US government views Cuba's program as a "coerced forced labour export scheme." The State Department alleges the Cuban government exploits its doctors by diverting most of their earnings.
IEBC Sets November 27 By-Elections as Parliament Passes Bill Penalizing Electoral Malpractice - August 2025
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has confirmed it will hold by-elections on November 27. The commission justified the date by stating it was impossible to meet the 90-day constitutional deadline due to delays in its full constitution. The IEBC refuted claims from ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna that the date is unconstitutional. Meanwhile, the Kenyan Parliament has passed the Election Offences (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill, 2024. This bill introduces tougher penalties, including increased fines and jail terms, for IEBC officials who delay or alter election results.
More from Thursday:
Friday
August 15
KDF Addresses Border Insecurity and Regional Stability in Somalia - August 2025
Kenya’s military is focusing on domestic border security and regional stability. The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) is considering increasing troop deployment along the Kenya–Ethiopia border in Turkana County to address insecurity. This follows a fatal attack on Kenyan fishermen in February and a subsequent meeting between Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya and Turkana North MP Ekwom Nabuim. Chief of Defence Forces, General Charles Kahariri, held a high-level meeting with the US Military Chief. General Kahariri has also warned that the recent reduction of African Union Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) troops risks undoing gains against Al-Shabaab, urging for stronger international backing.
Proceedings Advance in Shakahola Massacre, Governor's Impeachment, and Gold Scam Cases - August 2025
Several high-profile legal matters progressed this week. In the Mombasa High Court, harrowing testimonies were heard in the Shakahola massacre case, where Paul Mackenzie and 29 co-accused face murder charges. Witnesses described forced starvation and beatings. In Kericho County, Governor Erick Mutai faced his second impeachment hearing over the alleged misappropriation of Ksh85 million, which was accompanied by violent street clashes and an attempted arson attack. Separately, police arrested two masterminds behind a gold scam that targeted Dubai nationals. The suspects allegedly defrauded two investors of USD 54,000 (approximately Ksh 8.5 million) in September 2024.
Law Society of Kenya Challenges President on Senior Counsel Awards and Anticipatory Bail - August 2025
The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has opposed a proposed amendment to the Advocates Act that would grant the President unilateral authority to confer the rank of Senior Counsel. The LSK and the Senior Counsel Bar warned this would politicize the honor. LSK President Faith Odhiambo also defended anticipatory bail, countering President William Ruto's claims that it shields corruption suspects by stating that strict legal thresholds are applied. In a related legislative development, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has proposed a bill to amend the Criminal Procedure Code. The bill aims to expunge criminal records for Kenyan youth who have served their sentences for non-capital or non-sexual offenses to improve their employment opportunities.
More from Friday:
Saturday
August 16
President Ruto and Cabinet Secretaries Make New Appointments to Parastatals and Commissions - August 2025
President William Ruto has announced several key appointments to parastatal boards, effective August 15, with terms set for three years. The President also established a selection panel for the National Land Commission (NLC) to spearhead the recruitment of a new chair and members for a six-year term starting in November. In a gazette notice dated Friday, August 15, several Cabinet Secretaries also made significant appointments to various ministries and state agencies to refresh leadership. Among the appointments, Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano selected Capital FM owner Mary-Anne Musangi to lead a taskforce aimed at rebranding Kenya's tourism image.
Education Bodies Announce Student Funding, Placements, and School Reviews - August 2025
The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) disbursed loans to over 136,000 first-time university students for the 2025/2026 academic year under the new Student-Centred Funding Model. The Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) has reopened applications for students seeking placements at the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) for the September intake. In other education news, the Ministry of Education is reviewing over 3,000 secondary schools with low student enrollment for potential closure or conversion due to inefficient resource use. Meanwhile, Moi University confirmed that the reporting of first-year students on August 21, 2025, will proceed despite a looming lecturers’ strike.
IEBC Replaces Expelled UDA Senator Gloria Orwoba with Consolata Wakwabubi - August 2025
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has officially replaced Senator Gloria Magoma Orwoba with Consolata Nabwire Wakwabubi as a nominated senator for the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). The decision was formalized in a Gazette notice dated August 15, 2025, following Orwoba's expulsion from the UDA party in May 2025. Another Gazette Notice dated August 14 also confirmed the replacement. Consolata Nabwire Wakwabubi is now gazetted to take the position.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
August 17
Politicians Clash Over NG-CDF, Regional Compensation, and Ethnic Profiling - August 2025
A section of Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Members of Parliament have publicly criticized their party leader, Raila Odinga, over his proposal to transfer the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) to counties. In a separate matter, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya issued a stern warning to Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, accusing them of lacking political independence and relying on President William Ruto's goodwill. Additionally, Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has demanded compensation for victims of criminal and terror activities in Kenya's North Eastern regions during the previous administration. In response to political rhetoric, former Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria has strongly condemned what he describes as increasing ethnic profiling targeting the Mt Kenya community, urging leaders to cease divisive rhetoric.
Two Killed in Highway Crash, Families Murdered in Kirinyaga, and KPLC Fraud Mastermind Arrested - August 2025
A tragic multi-vehicle crash on the Nairobi-Mombasa highway at Kwa Mautiiyo in Malili on Saturday, August 16, resulted in two fatalities and three injuries. The accident involved a trailer, a pick-up truck, and another trailer. In a separate horrific incident in Ngurubani town, Kirinyaga County, a man allegedly murdered his wife and two young children before attempting suicide. In Thika, a 36-year-old married man is in custody for the fatal stabbing of his 20-year-old girlfriend. Meanwhile, a man known as "Senator," the alleged mastermind behind an illegal electricity network, has been arrested. He is accused of operating a clandestine system that cost Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) over Ksh100 million.
Harambee Stars Defeat Zambia 1-0 to Top CHAN Group A - August 2025
The Harambee Stars defeated Zambia 1-0 at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, securing the top spot in Group A of the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN). Ryan Ogam's 75th-minute goal sealed the victory and ensured Kenya finished the group stage unbeaten with 10 points. Head coach Benni McCarthy had urged the team to win to maintain momentum, and defender Mike Kibwage stated the team was focused on topping the group. For the high-stakes clash on August 17, 2025, security was significantly enhanced at the stadium and police implemented major road closures in Nairobi. President William Ruto commended the Harambee Stars for their breakthrough performance and reaching the quarter-finals.