December 15 - December 21, 2025
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, December 15 to Sunday, December 21, 2025, organized by weekday.
Monday
December 15
President Ruto Rewards Environmentalist Truphena Muthoni for 72-Hour Tree-Hugging Feat - December 2025
President William Ruto has honored environmentalist Truphena Muthoni following her record 72-hour tree-hugging feat in Nyeri, which was intended to raise awareness for environmental protection and climate change. Muthoni was awarded the Head of State Commendation (HSC) Medal for her dedication to environmental stewardship. The President also appointed her as an Ambassador for Kenya's 15 Billion Tree Planting Campaign. The recognitions were presented at State House on Monday, December 15. In addition to the honors, Muthoni received a fully sponsored holiday and facilitation for an international trip.
Cabinet Approves KSh5 Trillion Infrastructure Fund and Other Major National Projects - December 2025
Kenya's Cabinet has approved the establishment of a KSh5 trillion National Infrastructure Fund and a Sovereign Wealth Fund to accelerate economic growth. These funds will utilize creative financing methods beyond traditional taxation to mobilize resources. The Cabinet also approved the implementation of new second-generation smart driving licenses, which will be rolled out via a public-private partnership to modernize transport and improve road safety. In a related development, the Kenyan Government has signed a KSh 40.4 billion Public-Private Partnership (PPP) deal. This agreement aims to upgrade the national power transmission network, boost grid stability, and integrate renewable energy.
KNEC Warns Schools Over KJSEA Results and Addresses KCSE Examiner Pay - December 2025
The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has issued a warning to schools, cautioning them against publishing "fake" and "misleading" analyses of the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) results. Following the inaugural release of KJSEA outcomes on December 11, KNEC clarified that the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system does not use aggregate scores or school rankings. Separately, KNEC addressed concerns about unpaid coordination fees for KCSE examiners. The council stated that all examiners who have completed their marking duties and left the centres have been paid. This clarification followed protests by over 800 examiners at Mary Hills Girls' High School who were demanding their allowances.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
December 16
DCI Investigates Death of Former MP Cyrus Jirongo After Fatal Car Crash - December 2025
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is investigating the death of former Lugari MP Cyrus Jirongo, who died in a fatal accident on December 13, 2025. The 64-year-old died in a head-on collision on the Nakuru–Naivasha Highway. As part of a comprehensive probe, the DCI is questioning individuals who last interacted with Jirongo, reviewing CCTV footage, and scrutinizing his movements, amid reports of a female companion. A new account from a petrol station security guard, Ephraim Cheptek, has challenged the initial narrative provided by the bus driver involved. Additionally, opposition leader Rigathi Gachagua has demanded that National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula recount his last moments with the late Cyrus Jirongo.
Police Investigate Multiple Suicides and a Murder-Suicide Across Three Counties - December 2025
Police are investigating three suspected suicide incidents reported on Sunday, December 14, 2025, across Nyandarua, Migori, and Vihiga counties, involving individuals aged between 15 and 65. One case involved a 15-year-old pupil from Otacho Primary School in Migori, who died by suicide after a disagreement with his mother over attending church; his body was found hanging from a mango tree. In a separate incident on the same day in Laikipia West, a police officer shot and killed a civilian before taking his own life in a suspected love triangle at Ndurumo Trading Centre.
Cabinet Approves KSh5 Trillion National Infrastructure Fund Amid Constitutional Debate - December 2025
The Cabinet has approved the establishment of a KSh5 trillion National Infrastructure Fund, which aims to accelerate economic growth by using creative financing methods beyond traditional taxation. COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli urged Kenyans to support the proposed fund, stating it is crucial for addressing infrastructure deficiencies and preventing road accidents. However, the proposal is facing a challenge over its plan to be registered as a Limited Liability Company (LLC). Critics argue that this structure would be a direct violation of Kenya's 2010 Constitution.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
December 17
Government Implements Festive Season Security Measures and Traffic Rules - December 2025
The Kenyan government has activated the National Multi-Agency Command Centre (NMACC) to enhance security nationwide during the festive season and safeguard lives and property. This initiative places enforcement agencies under a single command to improve surveillance, intelligence sharing, and rapid response. To manage holiday traffic, the Ministry of Interior has announced alternative routes for motorists traveling to Nyanza, Western, and Central Kenya to reduce congestion. Inspector General Douglas Kanja has also issued a stern warning concerning road safety as police intensify patrols across Kenyan roads. Motorists also face hefty fines for minor infractions under the Traffic (Minor Offenses) Rules, 2016, ranging from Ksh 500 for not wearing a seatbelt to Ksh 10,000 for missing an inspection certificate.
Autopsy Reveals Cyrus Jirongo Died From Blunt Force Trauma and Crush Injuries - December 2025
An autopsy has confirmed that former Cabinet Minister Cyrus Jirongo died from severe crush injuries to the chest, including a perforated heart, sustained in a road crash on December 13 in Naivasha. Findings from a pathologist representing his family also concluded that the former legislator died from severe blunt force trauma from a high-impact road crash. The post-mortem examination revealed extensive injuries consistent with a violent collision. In response, Democracy for the Citizens party leader Rigathi Gachagua has demanded that National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula recount his last moments with Jirongo. Opposition leaders are also calling for a quick investigation into his death.
CS Duale Orders Hospital Probe and Exposes C-Section Scheme Amid Insurance Disputes - December 2025
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has ordered new investigations into Sisto Mazzoldi Hospital following an NTV exposé alleging fraudulent insurance claims. Duale directed the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) to immediately investigate, with strong disciplinary action promised if malpractice is confirmed. The CS also exposed a concerning rise in unnecessary Caesarean section deliveries, which he stated are driven by financial incentives from the Social Health Authority (SHA). In a related development, doctors represented by KMPDU have rejected a new government proposal that would introduce time-based pre-authorization restrictions on insurance claims. The proposal suggested that the Social Health Authority might reject claims pre-authorized outside the official working hours of 8 AM to 5 PM.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
December 18
Report Shows Ksh525 Billion Govt Debt; PAYE Changes and Water Allocation Rules Proposed - December 2025
A recent report by the Office of the Controller of Budget has revealed that the Kenyan national government's pending bills reached Ksh525.44 billion by September 2025, with state corporations accounting for the vast majority of this debt. Separately, the Kenya Bankers Association has proposed significant changes to the Pay As You Earn (PAYE) tax bands in a submission to the National Treasury, aiming to increase the minimum taxable income and boost disposable income. In another development, the Government of Kenya, through the Water Resources Authority (WRA), has invited public participation for its Draft Water Allocation Guidelines and Allocation Thresholds 2025 to ensure equitable and sustainable water use.
Fatal and Injury-Causing Road Accidents Reported; NTSA Warns Motorists of SMS Scam - December 2025
Newly released CCTV footage shows the moment a 65-seater bus collided head-on with former Lugari Member of Parliament Cyrus Jirongo's car on the Nairobi-Nakuru highway, instantly killing him. In another incident, several passengers and a driver were injured after a Dreamline passenger bus collided with a lorry near Kijabe on the Nairobi–Naivasha highway in the early hours of Thursday. Amid these events, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) issued a public alert warning Kenyan motorists about a new scam. The scam involves fraudulent SMS messages demanding instant payments for alleged traffic violations and directing recipients to a fake website.
Government Announces Scholarship, Cash Transfer, and Hiring Policies for Minority Communities - December 2025
President William Ruto announced the establishment of a Sh500 billion National Minority Scholarship Programme aimed at supporting children from marginalized communities. This initiative was unveiled during his address to 5,000 leaders from ethnic minorities at State House, Nairobi, marking International Minorities Rights Day. On the same day, President Ruto directed the urgent enrollment of thousands of families from Kenya's minority and marginalized communities into existing cash transfer programs to strengthen household resilience. Additionally, the Cabinet approved the National Policy on Ethnic Minorities, Indigenous, and Marginalised Communities, a new blueprint aimed at reforming public service hiring. This policy will mandate the inclusion and representation of marginalised communities across all government institutions and ensure affirmative action in public service and procurement.
More from Thursday:
Friday
December 19
Government Releases Exam Placements and Certificates, Warns Universities on Jobless Graduates - December 2025
The Ministry of Education has released Grade 10 placements for candidates who sat the Kenya Junior Secondary Education Assessment (KJSEA), marking a key step for the first CBC cohort's transition to senior secondary school. In a separate development, the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) dispatched the 2024 KCPE and KCSE examination certificates to all schools nationwide. Candidates have been advised to collect their certificates from their respective examination centers. Meanwhile, the government has urged universities to revamp their courses to align with labor market demands. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba warned against producing more jobless graduates, cautioning that current university programs are not meeting industry needs.
Kenya Repatriates Citizens From Russia; Diplomatic Tensions Rise with South Africa Over Detained Kenyans - December 2025
The Kenyan government has successfully repatriated 18 of its citizens from Russia who were allegedly recruited to fight against Ukraine. These returnees are set to receive psycho-social support as part of a reintegration program. In a separate international incident, South Africa accused the United States of using Kenyan nationals without work permits at a facility processing refugee applications. Following this, South African authorities arrested seven Kenyan nationals who were accused of working illegally on tourist visas. The United States condemned South Africa for detaining U.S. officials involved in the matter and for publicly releasing their personal information, leading to increased tensions.
Ruto Hands Over 4,500 Homes in Mukuru as Government Defends "Singapore Dream" Vision - December 2025
President William Ruto handed over keys to over 4,500 beneficiaries of the Affordable Housing Programme at New Mukuru in Nairobi. This move is part of his vision to transform Kenya into a "Singapore-status" nation by replacing informal settlements with dignified housing. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki defended this "Singapore dream" development vision against criticism, insisting that the transformation is achievable. However, the administration faced criticism from the Wiper Patriotic Front, which accused President Ruto of stealing credit for projects initiated by its leader, Kalonzo Musyoka. The party specifically cited the Kibwezi-Mutumo-Kitui-Bondoni road project as an example.
More from Friday:
Saturday
December 20
Kenya Imposes Curfew in Narok, Extends Marsabit Security Order, and Supports Missions in Somalia & Haiti - December 2025
The Kenyan government imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Trans Mara East and South in Narok County after violent tribal clashes resulted in at least seven deaths and the torching of over 120 houses. In another security measure, the Ministry of Interior extended the designation of 13 areas in Marsabit County as "security-disturbed and dangerous" for an additional 30 days, effective December 23, 2025. Concurrently, Kenya's international military engagements continue, with Defence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya visiting Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) troops in Somalia on December 20. She praised their commitment to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission (AUSSOM) and affirmed that their welfare is a top priority. This is happening as the United States provided an update on the Haiti Gang Suppression Force, noting that Kenya recently deployed an additional 230 specialised officers to the country.
President Ruto Revises National Awards and Faces Housing Project Protests Amid ODM-UDA Deal Clarification - December 2025
President William Ruto revised the award categories for 10 recipients of the Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear (C.B.S.), which were initially conferred during Jamhuri Day celebrations. The changes were announced in a gazette notice on Friday, December 19, reassigning the individuals to other honors. Meanwhile, the President's Affordable Housing Projects faced opposition on December 20, as residents in Lamu and Garissa Counties held protests citing environmental damage, potential displacement, and a lack of consultation. In the political sphere, Gladys Wanga, Chairperson of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), clarified the party's ongoing cooperation with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA). She stated the arrangement is based on a written agreement but warned it is conditional on the respect of ODM’s interests and strongholds. Wanga's clarification comes amid internal party pressure concerning the 2027 presidential race.
Tech & Startup Initiatives in Africa: Huawei Trains Youth, Qualcomm Concludes Program, and Kayko Raises $1.2M - December 2025
Several technology and startup development initiatives are taking place across Africa. In Kenya, two hundred and fifty young people in Dagoretti North graduated from Huawei’s DigiTruck Digital Skills Programme, an initiative aimed at boosting youth employability and innovation. Qualcomm also successfully concluded its third annual Make in Africa (QMIA) Startup Mentorship Program with a virtual finale, reinforcing its commitment to fostering innovation on the continent. In Rwanda, fintech startup Kayko has successfully raised $1.2 million in a seed funding round. This capital will help Kayko enhance access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Additionally, the United Arab Emirates' recently announced US$1 billion AI for Development initiative could significantly aid Kenya's National AI Strategy by providing crucial funding and expertise.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
December 21
Disputes Erupt Over Church Leadership in Nyahururu, Land in Murang'a, and Proposed Nuclear Project in Siaya - December 2025
Police were deployed to the Nyahururu Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) church on December 20 after two factions clashed over a leadership dispute, disrupting services for the fourth time. In Maragwa, Murang’a County, a dispute involving 4,000 acres of land escalated into a standoff between MP Mary Wamaua and Lands CS Alice Wahome after violent clashes between residents. Meanwhile, a group of Luo Elders has unanimously rejected President William Ruto's proposed Ksh500 billion nuclear power plant project in Siaya County. The elders cited significant health and environmental concerns, which follows an earlier rejection of the project by residents in Kilifi.
Government Imposes Curfew in Trans Mara Following Clashes That Displaced Over 1,800 Residents - December 2025
The Kenyan government has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Transmara West and Transmara South sub-counties following renewed tribal clashes. The violence has resulted in numerous fatalities and displaced over 1,800 residents from the Angata Barikkoi area. According to reports, 253 households have been burnt down and destroyed. In connection with the deadly clashes in Trans Mara South, an MCA and another individual have been arrested. Police are continuing efforts to apprehend additional suspects as the area remains tense.
Police Arrest Armed Suspects and Recover Firearms in Igembe South and Eastleigh - December 2025
A National Police Reserve (NPR) officer was arrested in Igembe South Sub-County as part of a robbery investigation. An AK-47 rifle, allegedly used in a robbery with violence at Kirindini Shopping Centre on December 19, was recovered by detectives. An official Government G3 rifle issued to the officer was also found. The NPR officer is linked to a series of robberies in the area. In a separate operation in Nairobi, detectives arrested a murder suspect in Eastleigh. A firearm was recovered during the operation, and the suspect is believed to be linked to serious crimes in the area.