October 20 - October 26, 2025
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, October 20 to Sunday, October 26, 2025, organized by weekday.
Monday
October 20
President Ruto Honors Raila Odinga and Announces Dam Project at Mashujaa Day Celebrations - October 2025
The 2025 Mashujaa Day celebrations were held at Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui with Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye as the chief guest. During the event, President William Ruto dedicated the celebrations to the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, honoring his legacy as a monumental statesman. President Ruto also posthumously awarded the Order of the Golden Heart (CGH) to Raila Odinga for his significant service and contributions to Kenya's national unity. In a major policy announcement at the celebration, the President stated the government plans to construct at least 50 mega dams to irrigate 2 million acres for a food-secure nation.
Stampede, Theft, and Mourner Intrusion Reported During Raila Odinga's Funeral Events - October 2025
Raila Odinga was laid to rest at his home in Bondo, Siaya County, with a state funeral that included a 17-gun salute. However, events surrounding his funeral were marked by several incidents. At the Moi International Stadium in Kasarani, a stampede during a public viewing led to an overwhelming number of casualties at Kenyatta National Hospital. During the funeral in Bondo, a police firearm was stolen from an officer attached to a governor's VIP protection team. Shortly after dignitaries departed the burial, hundreds of mourners stormed the private gravesite, defying the family's requests.
Calls for Leadership Changes and Future Plans Emerge Within ODM Party - October 2025
Political discussions concerning the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) have emerged. During Mashujaa Day celebrations, Kisii Governor Simba Arati publicly urged President William Ruto to rejoin the ODM party and proposed he be the party's presidential candidate for the 2027 election. Separately, Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei called for the immediate removal of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna from his position as the Secretary General of the ODM party. In other party news, Mombasa is set to host ODM's 20th-anniversary celebration.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
October 21
Kenya Signs 90-Day Visa Exemption with Senegal and Announces New Passport Office - October 2025
Kenya and Senegal have signed a landmark agreement for a reciprocal 90-day visa exemption to strengthen bilateral ties and boost various sectors. The deal allows citizens to travel between the countries for up to 90 days without a visa, aiming to lift restrictions and improve diplomatic and economic relations. In a separate initiative to improve access to travel services, the Kenyan government announced plans to open its tenth passport office in Malindi next year. This new office is intended to ease access to travel documents for residents of the North Coast region. The government stated this initiative seeks to facilitate employment opportunities abroad, particularly for young people.
Courts Intervene in Police Recruitment, Striking Doctors, and School Fees - October 2025
The National Police Service (NPS) and the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) have challenged the jurisdiction of the Employment and Labour Relations Court (ELRC) over a case that halted the recruitment of 10,000 police officers. In a separate case, the same court has temporarily blocked the Kiambu County Government from replacing its striking doctors, following a petition citing unfairness and violations of labor laws. Meanwhile, the High Court in Kericho has provided relief to parents at Litein High School by reducing a damage fee for students. The court slashed the demand from Sh49,000 to Sh10,000 per student, a decision that affects Form Four candidates preparing for national examinations.
Government Confirms 2025 Assessment Preparations and Plans New School Fee Structure - October 2025
President William Ruto has confirmed that preparations for the 2025 national assessments in Kenya are complete, assuring a smooth examination season. He urged all stakeholders to ensure credible and efficient examinations, stating that adequate resources and security measures are in place. In a related move, the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) has released the 2025 teacher assessment and examination results, accessible to colleges via the CBATE portal after full payment. Additionally, the Ministry of Education is collaborating with school principals to establish an affordable fee structure for senior schools. This new structure is being developed ahead of the 2026 transition under the Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC).
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
October 22
Governor Kahiga Resigns from CoG Amid Uproar Over Remarks on Raila Odinga’s Death - October 2025
Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga resigned as Vice Chairperson of the Council of Governors (CoG) following widespread condemnation for remarks he made concerning the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. The CoG called an urgent extraordinary meeting to address the comments, which Governor Anne Waiguru denounced as "callous and irresponsible." The United Opposition publicly disavowed Kahiga and urged the ruling UDA party to condemn him. The ODM party accused former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua of using Kahiga to make the disparaging remarks. Kahiga had claimed that Raila’s demise would be a blessing for the Mt Kenya region.
Parliament Fast-tracks Election Laws as PSC Bars Civil Servants from Politics - October 2025
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula announced that three key election-related bills will be passed within the next three months for the 2027 General Election. He assured the British High Commission Chargé d’Affaires ad interim Ed Barnett that Parliament would expedite the passage of these laws. Meanwhile, the Public Service Commission (PSC) has issued a stern warning to all civil servants, prohibiting their involvement in politics ahead of the November 27, 2025 by-elections. The PSC mandated that public officers intending to contest must resign within seven days of a vacancy declaration or face disciplinary action.
Kenyan Hospitals Report Surgical Milestones and Breast Cancer Warning - October 2025
Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) successfully performed a historic 11-hour surgery, removing 20.86kg of breast tissue from a 17-year-old girl with gigantomastia. In another medical achievement, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) in Kisumu conducted its inaugural cardiothoracic surgery on a patient with Stage II esophageal cancer. Separately, Dr. Mukuhi Ng’ang’a, a Consultant Breast Surgical Oncologist at Aga Khan University Hospital, highlighted that breast cancer is increasingly affecting younger women in sub-Saharan Africa. She emphasized that late presentation is a significant barrier to survival in the region.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
October 23
Deaths Reported During KDF Recruitment and Operations in Turkana - October 2025
Protests have erupted in Kaputir, Turkana South, after two National Police Reservists (NPRs) were allegedly killed by the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) on Wednesday, October 22. Residents responded by blocking the Kaputir-Kapenguria Road to demand justice. Separately, two students died during KDF recruitment drives. A Garissa University student collapsed during physical exercises in Wajir and was pronounced dead upon arrival at a hospital, with his family now appealing to the government for assistance. In another incident on October 22, a 22-year-old Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology student died during a recruitment exercise in Kabuchai constituency, Bungoma County, after collapsing during a running drill.
Political Reactions and Tributes Following the Death of Raila Odinga - October 2025
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) will take disciplinary action against Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga for remarks he made regarding the demise of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. UDA Chairperson Cecily Mbarire confirmed the action after Kahiga claimed Raila's death would be a "blessing" for the Mt Kenya region. Following the political uncertainty since Raila Odinga's passing, the United Opposition has publicly invited the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) to join its ranks. Meanwhile, UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar has proposed establishing the Raila Odinga School of Government at the University of Nairobi. This proposal is part of deliberations on how to honour the legacy of the former Prime Minister, who passed away on October 15.
Actions Target Corruption Scandals and Illicit Financial Schemes - October 2025
Four Kenyans were among 83 individuals arrested globally by INTERPOL for alleged involvement in a widespread money laundering scheme that uncovered approximately Ksh33 billion ($260 million) in illicit funds. The operation, a first of its kind targeting terrorism financing, also identified 160 persons of interest across six African countries. In Mombasa, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) recovered a Ksh30 million public land parcel in Nyali after a 12-year legal battle. The Mombasa Environment and Land Court nullified an unlawful allocation of the 0.13-hectare plot. Meanwhile, protesters demonstrated outside the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) headquarters demanding the removal of Director General George Njao over allegations of rampant corruption within the authority.
More from Thursday:
Friday
October 24
Kiambu Doctors End 151-Day Strike as Lecturers' Strike Continues - October 2025
The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has called off a 151-day strike by Kiambu doctors after reaching a deal with the Council of Governors (CoG) and the Kiambu County Government. The agreement ensures the immediate payment of October salaries and one month of withheld arrears, ending one of Kenya's longest county doctor strikes. Doctors are set to resume their duties on Monday, October 27. Meanwhile, the separate ongoing lecturers’ strike has entered its 37th day, continuing to disrupt public university education. Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has accused the government of intimidation and demanded the release of Ksh7.9 billion owed to lecturers under their Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Kenyan National Teams Compete in Boxing Finals, Football Qualifiers, and Athletics Trials - October 2025
Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo are set for a two-horse race for the Africa Zone Three Boxing Championships title, with the finals held at Kasarani Gymnasium, Nairobi. The host nation, Kenya, has 15 boxers in the finals, while defending champions DRC boast 17. In football, the Harambee Starlets are set to face the Gambia Queen Scorpions in a 2026 Women Africa Cup of Nations (Wafcon) qualifier match on Friday at Nyayo Stadium. Meanwhile, athletes are gearing up for the 2026 World Cross Country Championships trials in Eldoret this Saturday to secure spots on the national team. In golf, Kenya is maintaining its lead in the East and Central All-Africa Championship Trophy (ECAACT). Additionally, Team Kenya, which is preparing for the Tokyo 2025 Summer Deaflympics, underwent a four-day anti-doping training workshop at Kasarani Stadium.
Political Reactions & Strategy Shifts Following Raila Odinga's Death - October 2025
The death of ODM leader Raila Odinga has forced President William Ruto to rethink his political strategy for the 2027 General Election, complicating his plans for a potential coalition with ODM. Concurrently, Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga sparked widespread concern following inflammatory remarks he made regarding the death of the former Prime Minister, leading to calls for his impeachment. Although Governor Kahiga has since apologized, the incident has reignited worries about political incitement. Following this, former nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba has accused leaders of politicizing Governor Kahiga's remarks. Orwoba claimed they are "spreading hate" and exploiting the comments for political gain.
More from Friday:
Saturday
October 25
Fatal Road Accidents in Kiambu and Gilgil; Nairobi Announces Marathon Road Closures - October 2025
A tragic head-on collision on the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway near Gilgil early Saturday morning resulted in multiple fatalities, with all occupants of a private car confirmed dead at the scene after colliding with a truck. In a separate incident on Saturday afternoon, a lorry crashed into a hardware shop in Kiambu County, leaving several people feared dead and injured. These incidents occurred as the National Police Service (NPS) announced temporary road closures and traffic diversions in Nairobi. The closures will be in effect from midnight on Saturday, October 25, until 2 pm on Sunday, October 26, to facilitate the Standard Chartered Marathon.
UN Names Prof. Michael Ndurumo Person of the Year During 80th UN Charter Anniversary in Nairobi - October 2025
The United Nations in Kenya celebrated the 80th anniversary of the UN Charter at the United Nations Office in Nairobi (UNON), reaffirming its dedication to peace, human rights, and sustainable development. During these UN Day festivities, Professor Michael Ndurumo was named the 2025 United Nations in Kenya Person of the Year. Professor Ndurumo, who is East Africa's first deaf professor and the founder of the Africa Institute of Deaf Studies and Research, was recognized for his exceptional contributions to disability rights and inclusive education. The celebration commemorated the 80th anniversary of the UN Charter.
China Designates Taiwan Restoration Day as Xi Jinping Plans South Korea Visit - October 2025
China’s top legislative body has designated October 25 as the Commemoration Day of Taiwan’s Restoration, a day honoring the island's return to China in 1945. In other state news, Chinese President Xi Jinping will undertake a state visit to South Korea beginning this Thursday, coinciding with his attendance at the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Gyeongju. Additionally, Xi Jinping, in his role as general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized the key tasks required to achieve socialist modernization while planning for the country’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30).
More from Saturday:
Sunday
October 26
Govt Clarifies Details on Mau Summit Highway, SGR, and LAPSSET Projects - October 2025
The Kenyan government assured the public that the Rironi–Nakuru–Mau Summit Highway will remain under full state ownership despite being developed through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP). The Directorate of Public Private Partnerships clarified this model is a financing mechanism to address fiscal constraints. Following public concern over a proposed Ksh8 per kilometer toll, the government revealed that four vehicle categories will be exempted from paying tolls on the highway. Separately, the National Land Commission (NLC) is set to acquire over 960 hectares of community land in Garissa County for the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia-Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor project. These projects, along with the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), are presented as vital national developments under Kenya's Vision 2030.
Authorities Address Security Lapses and Recover Stolen Gun After Raila Odinga's Funeral - October 2025
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen acknowledged that security agencies were unprepared for challenges during the funeral proceedings for former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who died on October 15, 2025. Police have since recovered a firearm that was stolen from an officer at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) gate during the burial. Four suspects have been arrested in connection with the theft of the weapon. Following his passing, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences, highlighting Odinga's deep connection with India and his advocacy for stronger Indo-Kenya ties.
Police Investigate Ksh8 Billion Drug Haul, a Fatal Accident, and a Missing Person - October 2025
Security agencies in Mombasa intercepted a boat ferrying drugs worth over Ksh8 billion on Saturday, October 26, leading to the arrest of six Iranian nationals. The joint operation involved the DCI, Kenya Navy, and Kenya Coast Guard. In a separate incident in Murang'a County, a family is feared dead after their minivan plunged into River Kiama at Wacengu Bridge on Sunday, October 26. Meanwhile, the family of Caroline Mokeira, a missing senior accountant at KMTC Kapenguria Campus, is appealing to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to expedite her case, expressing frustration at the slow pace of the investigation.