September 29 - October 5, 2025
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, September 29 to Sunday, October 5, 2025, organized by weekday.
Monday
September 29
IEBC Launches Voter Registration Drive as Magarini Aspirant Quits Party Ahead of By-Election - September 2025
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has launched a nationwide continuous voter registration exercise, which began on Monday, September 29. This drive is intended to streamline the process for the upcoming November 27 by-elections and the August 2027 General Elections. The IEBC has a goal of increasing Kenya's voter roll to 28.5 million by 2027 and is introducing significant changes, including eye scanning. In a related political development weeks before the mini polls, Magarini parliamentary aspirant Furaha Chengo has resigned from Rigathi Gachagua's Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP). Chengo cited systemic inefficiencies, a collapse in leadership, and a lack of support from party officials as reasons for the move.
KWS Implements New Fees Amidst Lion Poisoning and Court Ruling on Conservancy Land - September 2025
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) is set to implement new conservation fees for its national parks, reserves, and sanctuaries starting Wednesday, October 1, 2025. The revised fees were approved by Parliament on September 25, 2025, and aim to enhance conservation efforts. This development comes as six lions were found poisoned at the Oleisukut Conservancy in Maasai Mara, just days after KWS offered free park entry for World Tourism Day. KWS veterinary staff treated the pride, with four lions making a full recovery. Separately, the High Court has nullified the title deed for the 76,602-acre Kamuthe Wildlife Conservancy in Garissa. The court declared its establishment unconstitutional, irregular, and unlawful due to a lack of public participation and environmental approvals.
Kenyan Teams Advance in Football; Omore and Chauhan Win Golf Tournaments - September 2025
Kenya's Rising Starlets have advanced to the third round of the 2026 Fifa Under-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers after defeating Ethiopia with a 5-1 aggregate score. In other football news, Kenya Police advanced to the second round of the CAF Champions League preliminary stages, despite a 2-0 loss to Mogadishu City of Somalia at Nyayo National Stadium. In golf, Tito Omore won the Nyanza Mug of September tournament at the Nyanza Golf Club, securing his first title of the year by posting a 64 net over a field of more than 50 golfers. Separately, 14-year-old Shay Chauhan won the 'Muwi' Roofing golf tournament at the Nyali Golf and Country Club, beating over 145 other golfers with a score of 42 stable ford points.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
September 30
Series of Fatal Road Accidents Kills Dozens on Kenyan Highways - September 2025
A bus crash on the Thika-Garissa highway near Mwingi town on Monday evening, September 29, 2025, injured several passengers after the vehicle lost control and overturned. This incident follows another fatal accident near Kikopey, Gilgil, on Sunday, September 28, where 16 people died. In that crash, 14 members of the same extended family were killed when their 14-seater matatu collided head-on with a truck on the Nakuru–Nairobi Highway. In response to a weekend of fatal crashes that left at least 20 people dead, the Road Safety Association of Kenya (RSAK) has called for the revocation of all driving licenses issued by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) in the past six years.
Government Announces Mass Recruitment for Police and Drivers - September 2025
The National Police Service Commission (NPSC) is cleared to proceed with the recruitment of 10,000 police officers after a petition challenging the process was withdrawn. The recruitment is scheduled to begin on Friday, October 3, and run until Thursday, October 9, across various gazetted centres nationwide. The NPSC has also issued a supplementary document announcing updated and new recruitment centers for the ongoing police constable recruitment. In a separate drive, the Ministry of Public Service has announced a mass recruitment for drivers on permanent and pensionable terms, offering a basic salary of up to Ksh24,000 plus allowances. Eligible Kenyans can apply through the Ministry's portal before October 22, 2025.
US Report Places Kenya on Tier 2 List for Human Trafficking - September 2025
The U.S. Department of State's 2025 Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report has placed Kenya on its Tier 2 list. This ranking indicates that while the government does not fully meet the minimum anti-trafficking standards, it is making significant efforts toward compliance. A recent US report indicates that Kenya remains a significant hub for human trafficking, despite making "significant efforts" to combat the crime. The report highlights persistent gaps, including limited victim protection services and a failure to act against complicit officials. Kenya's placement on the Tier 2 list has been repeated.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
October 1
Corruption Allegations and Charges Target SHA, KDF, and KEMSA - October 2025
The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) has demanded an inquiry and due process in the case of auditor CPA Andrew Kipkirui Rotich. Rotich was fired and dropped from a shortlist after exposing large-scale billing fraud at the Social Health Authority (SHA), sparking a national debate on whistleblower protection. In a separate matter, the Kenyan Senate raised concerns about alleged corruption in the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) recruitment process, with claims that slots are being sold for up to Ksh400,000. Additionally, the US government has charged a 40-year-old Kenyan for allegedly conspiring to steal medical supplies from the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA). The supplies, including HIV test kits, were part of a Ksh83 billion USAID program.
Labor Disputes Involving Airport Workers, Nurses, and Lecturers - October 2025
The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) has called off its planned strike following successful negotiations with the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), resolving tensions that affected the air travel sector. In a separate incident, the Kenya National Union of Nurses and Midwives (KNUNM) has threatened a nationwide strike after twenty nurses were injured when armed goons disrupted their protest in Siaya County. The union accused Siaya Governor James Orengo of facilitating the attack as protests over unresolved grievances entered their 19th day. Meanwhile, the Kenyan government is pursuing court intervention to address the ongoing lecturers' strike that has halted learning in all public universities. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba stated that both parties will appear before the court on October 6 to find a way forward.
Political Realignments and Voter Registration Concerns Emerge Ahead of 2027 Elections - October 2025
The Mt Kenya region is experiencing a significant political realignment ahead of the next General Election as questions emerge over who is the region's 'kingpin'. Former President Uhuru Kenyatta's potential comeback is challenging Rigathi Gachagua's political influence. Separately, Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje has publicly criticized Jubilee Party Secretary General Jeremiah Kioni, accusing him of causing disunity among opposition parties. These political shifts are occurring amid concerns over low voter registration turnout for the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) aims to register six million new voters, primarily Gen Z, to reach a target of 28 million eligible voters for Kenya's 2027 elections.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
October 2
Public Sector Workers Strike, Protest, and Negotiate Over Pay and Management - October 2025
The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) called off its planned strike after successful negotiations and reaching a partial deal with the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), resolving tensions that affected the air travel sector. In Nairobi, a health crisis is unfolding as health workers protested three months of unpaid salaries, directly blaming Governor Johnson Sakaja during demonstrations on October 2. Meanwhile, in Siaya County, the Head of Law Enforcement was placed on compulsory leave after goons attacked and injured more than 20 striking nurses outside the governor's office on September 30. This decision was made to facilitate a full investigation into the incident.
Two Kenyan Activists Abducted in Kampala, Uganda - October 2025
Two Kenyan activists, Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, were reportedly abducted in Kampala, Uganda, on Wednesday, September 1. The abduction occurred at a petrol station while they were attending a political campaign for National Unity Platform Chairman Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu. Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei urged the Ugandan government to take stern action against them, claiming they were "exporting bad manners". The Kenyan government is investigating the alleged abduction, with Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen confirming that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is handling the matter to ensure the safety of its citizens abroad.
Courts Halt New KWS Park Fees and Postpone National Police Recruitment - October 2025
The Milimani High Court has issued temporary orders blocking the Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) from implementing new park entry fees. The case was filed by the Kenya Tourism Federation, and the revised fees, which began on October 1, were suspended pending a hearing. In a separate judicial action, the National Police Service (NPS) has indefinitely postponed a mass police recruitment exercise. The postponement follows interim conservatory orders issued by the Employment and Labour Relations Court. The recruitment was originally scheduled to start on Friday, October 3.
More from Thursday:
Friday
October 3
Kenya Engages Uganda, Tanzania, and India Over Abducted Activists, Business Ban, and Deportations - October 2025
Kenya has officially pressed Uganda for answers regarding the whereabouts of two abducted Kenyan activists, Bob Njagi and Nicholas Oyoo, who were seized by armed men in Kampala on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. The activists were in Uganda for a meeting with National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi. In a separate diplomatic development, Kenya has been spared from a ban implemented by Tanzania on 15 business activities conducted by foreigners following constructive dialogue between the two governments. Meanwhile, the Indian government is deporting several Kenyan women who were discovered in a Powai hotel with expired tourist visas during a surprise check by authorities.
President Ruto Appoints Officials, Directs Youth Grant Rollout, and Intervenes on AGOA Expiry - October 2025
President William Ruto has appointed John Cox Lorionokou as the new Registrar of Political Parties for a six-year term, among other key government appointments. The President also issued a directive to all Principal Secretaries to prepare for the rollout of the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Project. This initiative aims to provide Ksh50,000 grants to young Kenyans to launch business ventures. Additionally, President Ruto held a meeting with Kenya's apparel industry to address potential job losses following the expiry of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), assuring stakeholders that negotiations with the US government are ongoing.
Team Kenya Rewarded for Tokyo Success as WADA Sanction Deadline Expires - October 2025
President William Ruto hosted Kenya's World Athletics Championships 2025 Tokyo team at State House, Nairobi, on October 2, 2025, to celebrate their historic performance. Gold medalists from the event received affordable houses in addition to their Sh3 million rewards. Following the team's success, Julius Kirwa, the head coach for Team Kenya at the World Championships in Tokyo, was named the Betika/Sjak Coach of the Month for September. Kirwa was recognized for guiding his team to its significant achievements. At the same time, Kenya faced uncertainty regarding its compliance with World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules as a deadline expired on Thursday, leaving the nation facing potential sanctions.
More from Friday:
Saturday
October 4
Individuals and Officials Face Charges for Fraud, Corruption, and Other Crimes - October 2025
The Director of Public Prosecutions approved charges against seven individuals in Kilifi County for a Ksh2 million fraud targeting the Social Health Authority. A senior bank operations manager in Kisii was charged with siphoning over Ksh52 million from the institution and faces 134 criminal charges. Concurrently, former Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) Director General Philemon Kandie was arrested by the EACC over graft allegations during his tenure. In a separate case, a Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company official was convicted and fined Kshs. 100,000 for using a fake diploma to secure employment. Meanwhile, Directorate of Criminal Investigations detectives arrested a woman at JKIA for attempting to smuggle cocaine to Dubai. Additionally, a Busia Deputy Headteacher was convicted of committing indecent acts against male pupils.
Clashes and Disputes Involve Kenyan Public Figures and Institutions - October 2025
Cracks have emerged within Kenya's United Opposition as former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i clashed over the method for selecting their 2027 presidential candidate. In a separate incident, Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale is facing calls for an investigation after he physically confronted Kakamega County's Executive Committee Member for Finance, Benjamin Andama, during a Senate committee oversight visit. Additionally, the National Police Service (NPS) strongly refuted claims by the Standard Media Group concerning missing funds for police officers deployed during the African Nations Championships. The NPS accused the media house of misinformation and personal attacks against Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat.
President Ruto Announces ID Fee Waiver, Appoints KNCHR Chair, and Addresses Church Donation - October 2025
President William Ruto announced the waiver of the national ID card replacement fee, stating the measure will remain in place until after the elections to encourage voter registration. He also appointed Claris Awour Ogangah as the new Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), filling a vacancy left after the death of the previous appointee. This appointment followed the rejection of a different nominee. Speaking at the Pentecostal Assemblies of God (PAG) Church’s centenary celebrations in Vihiga, the President publicly demanded recognition for a Sh10 million donation he had made. During the event, President Ruto also pledged an additional Sh50 million for a new PAG headquarters.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
October 5
Slow Start of Voter Registration Drive Prompts Calls for Action and Policy Review - October 2025
Kenya's Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) drive has experienced a slow start, registering only 7,048 new voters in its first week since its launch by the IEBC on September 29. This is significantly below the target of 6.3 million new voters for the 2027 General Election. In light of the low numbers, former Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr. Fred Matiang’i has called upon Kenyan youth to register in large numbers, emphasizing the potential for active citizenship to influence the nation's direction. Concurrently, President Ruto announced a review of the ID replacement fee, an action aimed at ensuring voter registration access.
President Ruto Announces New Funds, a State Lodge, and Demands Recognition for Sh10m Donation - October 2025
President William Ruto has directed Members of Parliament to urgently legislate an Infrastructure Fund and a Sovereign Wealth Fund to support Kenya's development without relying heavily on debt. The President also announced plans to construct a new State Lodge in Meru Town by December 2025, part of a broader effort to upgrade the region and establish Meru as Kenya's sixth city. Separately, at the Pentecostal Assemblies of God (PAG) Church’s centenary celebrations in Vihiga County, President Ruto demanded recognition for a Sh10 million donation he had made. He also pledged an additional Sh50 million for a new PAG headquarters while suggesting that the lack of acknowledgment could affect future funding.
Political Realignments Around Gachagua and Kalonzo Alliances Emerge Ahead of 2027 Election - October 2025
The Wiper Party has refuted claims by ODM that Kalonzo Musyoka and Rigathi Gachagua were spreading misinformation about Raila Odinga's health for political gain. This comes as Nyali MP Mohammed Ali indicated a potential shift from President William Ruto's UDA party to a possible alliance with Kalonzo Musyoka and Rigathi Gachagua, who are forming an opposition front for the 2027 General Election. Following this, Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi criticized Nyali MP Mohamed Ali for associating with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, warning it could end his political career. Sudi labeled Ali an opportunist and questioned Gachagua's ability to mentor due to his perceived incompetence. These developments are occurring amidst speculation surrounding Raila Odinga's recent travel and the postponement of the ODM's 20th anniversary celebrations.