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.
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.
JSC Appoints Acting Chief Kadhi; Parliament Cancels Warden Recruitment; KUPPET Demands Teacher Promotions - August 2025
The Judicial Service Commission (JSC) has appointed Sukyan Omar Hassan as the Acting Chief Kadhi for a period of three months, following the death of Sheikh Athman Abdul-Halim. In a different commission action, the Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC) unexpectedly cancelled the recruitment of 38 Security Wardens for Parliament weeks after inviting applications. Meanwhile, the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has criticized the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) for its failure to promote teachers. KUPPET is demanding automatic promotions for teachers who have remained in a single job group for over a decade.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
August 12
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.
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.
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
KDF Deployed to Turkana After 40 Killings; Del Monte Operations Scrutinized After Murders - August 2025
Following the killing of 40 fishermen in Todonyang, Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya confirmed the increased deployment of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel in Turkana East. The security measure was announced during an appearance before the National Assembly Defence Committee. Separately, the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) is protesting the “militarisation” of security at Del Monte pineapple plantations after two men died in separate incidents involving police and G4S guards. The KHRC alleges a pattern of violence against locals. Concurrently, the United States' 2024 Kenya Human Rights Report has highlighted a deterioration in the country's rights situation, noting numerous violations including unlawful killings and arbitrary arrests during anti-Finance Bill protests.
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.
Court Nullifies NHIF Committee; IG Kanja Sued Over Payroll; Malala's Arrest Halted - August 2025
The High Court in Eldoret has invalidated the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) Pending Medical Claims Verification Committee, with Justice Reuben Nyakundi declaring it "unconstitutional in its entirety" due to violations of patients' right to privacy. The Sheria Mtaani lobby group has also sued Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, over the alleged unlawful takeover of the police force's payroll management. In another case, the High Court in Kakamega has issued a conservatory order preventing the arrest and prosecution of Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Deputy Leader Cleophas Malala in relation to an alleged illegal helicopter landing.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
August 14
High Court Upholds Betting Taxes and Allows Presidential Advisors in Cabinet Meetings - August 2025
The High Court in Kakamega has upheld the legality of additional taxes on betting stakes and winnings, dismissing a petition that claimed a 12.5% excise duty on amounts staked constituted double taxation and violated the Constitution. The ruling affirms the government's authority to tax betting activities. In a separate case, a Kenyan High Court ruled that presidential advisers, such as David Ndii, are permitted to attend Cabinet meetings. Justice Lawrence Mugambi dismissed a petition seeking to block their presence, stating that President William Ruto has the discretion to invite experts for advisory purposes and no laws prevent this.
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.
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.
More from Thursday:
Friday
August 15
President Ruto Nominates New Officials and Overhauls Foreign Service - August 2025
President William Ruto has nominated John Cox Lorionokou as the new Registrar of Political Parties and Agatha Wanjiku Wahome as the Assistant Registrar. Additionally, Claris Awuor Onganga has been appointed as the new chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR). In a separate major shake-up, President Ruto significantly restructured Kenya’s Foreign Service. This overhaul involved appointing new ambassadors, high commissioners, and consuls general. The objective of the restructuring is to enhance diplomatic performance and service delivery.
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.
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.
More from Friday:
Saturday
August 16
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.
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.
Fatal Crash, Major Gridlock, and New Regulations Impact Kenyan Roads - August 2025
A tragic multi-vehicle crash on the Nairobi-Mombasa highway at Kwa Mautiiyo in Malili on August 16 resulted in two fatalities and three injuries after a pick-up truck attempted to overtake. On the same weekend, motorists were stranded for hours in a major gridlock stretching over 21 kilometres on the Nairobi-Mai Mahiu-Naivasha highway, which was caused by lane indiscipline. Amid these incidents, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) released its August 2025 list of approved motor vehicle body builders and licensed speed limiter suppliers to enhance road safety, in line with the Traffic Act.
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.