December 22 - December 28, 2025
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, December 22 to Sunday, December 28, 2025, organized by weekday.
Monday
December 22
President Ruto Attends Baringo Cultural Festival and Kimalel Goat Auction - December 2025
President William Ruto attended the annual Baringo Cultural Festival and Kimalel Goat Auction, an event that blends cultural celebration with trade for pastoral communities. During the festival, the President affirmed that Kenya's transformation is "unstoppable" and reiterated his commitment to a bottom-up economic approach. This year marked the historic digitalization of the auction, allowing remote participation for the first time. Deputy President Kithure Kindiki was absent from the event on Monday, December 22, due to illness and was represented by Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku.
Authorities Address KJSEA and Senior School Selection Processes - December 2025
The Kenyan government has granted 2025 Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) candidates a new opportunity to revise their senior school choices following dissatisfaction with initial placements. This decision comes amidst concerns from parents and educators that the KJSEA, introduced with the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), may perpetuate educational inequalities. Separately, Starehe Boys’ and Starehe Girls’ Centres have clarified their admission process for the 2026 Grade 10 class. They emphasized that selections are still ongoing and that financial need, assessed through specific forms, is the primary consideration for admission.
Authorities Respond to Clashes in Narok and Protests in Nairobi - December 2025
President William Ruto issued a stern directive for residents of Angata Barikoi, Trans Mara, to surrender their firearms following deadly clashes in the border region of Narok County. The government has vowed to restore peace in the area. In Nairobi's Central Business District, anti-riot police used tear gas to disperse protesters attempting to march to State House. The demonstration consisted of parents and relatives of victims from the 2024 and 2025 anti-government protests who were seeking an audience with the President over delayed compensation. Ahead of the march, two activists, Julius Kamau and Collins Otieno, were arrested by police at Jeevanjee Gardens.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
December 23
Education Ministry Opens Grade 10 Placement Review and Publishes Curriculum Materials - December 2025
The Ministry of Education has opened a seven-day review window for Grade 9 learners to verify and adjust their senior school placements ahead of the transition to Grade 10. On the first day of the review window, the ministry received approximately 100,000 requests for placement changes. This period aims to ensure fairness and alignment with the Competency-Based Education (CBE) framework. In preparation for the transition, the Ministry has also detailed curriculum support for learners, which is designed to align education with job market skills. Additionally, the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) has released a comprehensive list of approved curriculum support materials for Grade 10 students.
Family of Former MP Enoch Kibunguchy Alleges Food Poisoning, Demands Probe into His Death - December 2025
Former Lugari and Likuyani Member of Parliament, Enoch Kibunguchy, has passed away at Eldoret Hospital at the age of 72. Following his death on Tuesday, December 23, his family has raised concerns and is demanding a thorough investigation, alleging his death may have been the result of food poisoning. Relatives reported that he was diagnosed with food poisoning and a blood infection after a rapid and unusual deterioration in his health. His condition worsened, leading to multiple organ complications and admission to the ICU before he passed. The family is calling for immediate investigations into the circumstances surrounding the former legislator's death.
Africa Cup of Nations Opening Matches See Wins for DR Congo, Egypt and Draw for Zambia - December 2025
The Democratic Republic of Congo started their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a 1-0 victory over Benin in Rabat, with Theo Bongonda scoring the lone goal in their Group D opener. In Group B, Egypt secured a 2-1 victory against Zimbabwe after Mohamed Salah scored a decisive goal deep into stoppage time. Meanwhile, Zambia's Chipolopolo salvaged a 1-1 draw against Mali in their Group A match. Patson Daka scored a header for Zambia in the 92nd minute to level the score. The match against Mali was played on Monday night, where Mali had taken a lead in the second half.
Wednesday
December 24
UDA Announces Nominations Amid Opposition Shifts and ODM Infighting - December 2025
The United Democratic Alliance (UDA) has announced its next party nominations will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, to fill vacant seats in the National and County Assemblies. Meanwhile, fresh tensions have erupted within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), where youth wing leader Kasmuel McOure publicly threatened to remove Secretary General Edwin Sifuna from office, accusing him of insubordination. A new TIFA National Survey indicates a threefold surge in popularity for the Jubilee Party, attributed to an alliance between former President Uhuru Kenyatta and former CS Fred Matiangi. Amid these shifts, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged the Luhya community to unite behind President William Ruto’s second-term bid.
KeNHA Issues Traffic Advisories and Alternative Routes for Holiday Travel - December 2025
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued a traffic advisory for motorists traveling along the Rironi-Mau Summit highway, anticipating heavy congestion during the holiday season. To alleviate severe traffic on the Nairobi-Nakuru highway and Rironi-Mai Mahiu-Naivasha road, KeNHA has listed seven alternative routes. Drivers are urged to use these routes, exercise caution, and maintain lane discipline to ensure safer travel and avoid significant delays. These advisories come as Kenyans make their annual mass exodus from cities to rural villages for Christmas, seeking to reconnect with family despite economic challenges.
Police Investigate Deaths of IT CEO in Nairobi and a Man in Meru - December 2025
Nairobi police are investigating the suspected suicide of Evans Githua, the CEO of IT firm Com Twenty One, whose body was found on Tuesday after a fall from a 14th-floor apartment in Kilimani. Preliminary findings for the 51-year-old man's death suggest self-harm and significant blood loss inside the room. In a separate incident in Meru, the discovery of Silvester Peter Mwenda's body at Nyambene Level 4 Hospital has led to conflicting reports. His family alleges he was abducted and beaten by men posing as DCI detectives, while police claim he died from injuries sustained during a mob justice incident.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
December 25
Government and Aid Agencies Conduct Festive Season Initiatives and Issue Warnings - December 2025
Medical Services Principal Secretary Ouma Oluga brought wheelchairs and hope to 54 vulnerable families in Rarieda, Siaya County, as part of a festive-season outreach. In Narok County, the Kenya Red Cross, alongside the European Union Civil Protection & Humanitarian Aid (EU-CFPA) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), provided essential relief to 500 displaced households. Murang’a County implemented a tech-enabled system to distribute subsidized maize flour to approximately 135,000 farmers during the Christmas season. Amid these charitable efforts, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki urged drivers to exercise extreme caution on Kenyan roads during the Christmas and New Year festivities, citing a worrying increase in road fatalities.
High Court Halts Ruto's Fund; Road Tender and Judicial Procedures Face Scrutiny - December 2025
The High Court has temporarily halted the implementation of President William Ruto’s proposed National Infrastructure Fund (NIF) following a constitutional petition that challenged its legality. This ruling is a blow to the government's plan to fund development projects away from debt-financing. In a separate matter, the National Liberal Party (NLP) leader Dr. Augustus Kyalo Muli has criticized the timing of the tender for the Kyuso–Tseikuru road upgrade, calling it a politically motivated move in response to a spat between President Ruto and Kalonzo Musyoka. Meanwhile, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) announced it will join an appeal against a High Court ruling which stated that the absence of gazetted regulations for handling complaints against judges could render current JSC disciplinary proceedings unlawful.
Ivory Coast, Cameroon & Algeria Secure Wins in Africa Cup of Nations Openers - December 2025
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco saw several teams start their campaigns. Defending champions Ivory Coast began with a 1-0 victory over Mozambique, thanks to a goal from winger Amad Diallo in the Group F match. Also in Group F, Cameroon secured a 1-0 win against Gabon, with Karl Etta Eyong's early goal being the decider. In Group E, Algeria, led by captain Riyad Mahrez, had a dominant 3-0 victory over Sudan, with Mahrez scoring twice. Amidst the on-field action, AFCON organizers are allowing spectators free entry after matches begin to fill sparsely attended stadiums. This measure is intended to boost attendance as Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 World Cup.
More from Thursday:
Friday
December 26
Multiple Fatal Incidents Reported on Christmas Day - December 2025
Several fatal incidents were reported across Kenya on Christmas Day. Police in Kirinyaga County are searching for a woman who allegedly stabbed and killed a man over a Ksh60 debt. In Migori, three suspects, including the husband, were arrested in connection with the murder of KDF officer Second Lieutenant Cynthia Awour Mboya at her home. The 28-year-old officer was found with deep cut wounds and signs of strangulation. Along the Kericho-Nakuru highway, five people died when a Toyota Probox collided with a truck. In Nairobi, award-winning Standard Group senior videographer Rashid Mukoya Idi died on Wednesday, December 25, after collapsing at work.
KWS and Nairobi County Announce Increased Public Park Access During Holidays - December 2025
Authorities have made announcements to increase public access to parks during the holiday season. Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja declared that public parks, including Uhuru Park, should not be restricted for exclusive use during public holidays to promote inclusivity. This policy overturns previous restrictions, allowing all Kenyans to freely enjoy these spaces. Separately, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) announced free park entry offers for a section of Kenyans until December 31. These are part of special Boxing Day group promotions launched by KWS to encourage Kenyan citizens to visit national parks, sanctuaries, and marine parks before the end of the year.
Ivory Coast, Cameroon & Algeria Secure Wins in Africa Cup of Nations Openers - December 2025
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco saw several teams start their campaigns. Defending champions Ivory Coast began with a 1-0 victory over Mozambique, thanks to a goal from winger Amad Diallo in the Group F match. Also in Group F, Cameroon secured a 1-0 win against Gabon, with Karl Etta Eyong's early goal being the decider. In Group E, Algeria, led by captain Riyad Mahrez, had a dominant 3-0 victory over Sudan, with Mahrez scoring twice. Amidst the on-field action, AFCON organizers are allowing spectators free entry after matches begin to fill sparsely attended stadiums. This measure is intended to boost attendance as Morocco prepares to co-host the 2030 World Cup.
More from Friday:
Saturday
December 27
Tributes, Suspicions, and Legacy Discussed Following Death of Cyrus Jirongo - December 2025
Cyrus Jirongo, former Lugari MP, died on December 13, 2025, in a fatal road accident. Following his death, People’s Liberation Party leader Martha Karua revealed that Jirongo had been concerned for his safety prior to the accident. His wife, Anne Jirongo, shared details about her last conversations with him at a memorial service in Nairobi. During the requiem mass, friends and family paid tribute, with Muhoho Kenyatta recalling their friendship and David Murathe crediting Jirongo for paving the way for Uhuru Kenyatta's presidency. Friends stated that Jirongo's substantial wealth was acquired before his political career, noting he was pursuing significant business deals in his final months. Amid suspicions of foul play, former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria offered to provide a torch for the burial to support calls for traditional Tiriki rites.
African Union Rejects Israel's Recognition of Somaliland's Independence - December 2025
Israel formally recognized Somaliland as a sovereign, independent nation, a move that acknowledged its 30 years of self-governance and democratic elections. In response, the African Union (AU) issued a strong rejection of Israel's decision. The AU unequivocally reaffirmed its support for the unity and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia. The statement from the AU also expressed unwavering support for Somalia's sovereignty. Israel's move has sparked widespread condemnation and raised concerns about regional stability.
Egypt Secures AFCON Knockout Spot; Zimbabwe and Morocco Held to Draws - December 2025
Egypt secured an early spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations knockout stage after a 1-0 victory over South Africa in Agadir. Despite playing with 10 men for much of the match, a penalty converted by star forward Mohamed Salah proved decisive. In a Group B match in Marrakesh, Zimbabwe secured a 1-1 draw against Angola. Veteran forward Knowledge Musona's goal in first-half added time rescued a point for Zimbabwe after Gelson Dala had put Angola ahead. Meanwhile, Morocco was held to a 1-1 draw by Mali in a Group A match. This result prevented Morocco from immediately securing a place in the knockout stage and ended the team's 19-match winning streak.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
December 28
Israel Recognizes Somaliland, Prompting Diplomatic Responses from IGAD and President Ruto - December 2025
Israel has formally recognized Somaliland as a sovereign, independent nation, acknowledging its 30 years of self-governance and democratic elections. In response to this development, the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Secretariat reaffirmed its recognition of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia. IGAD's statement emphasized that unilateral actions can undermine regional peace and stability. Following the recognition and resulting tensions, Kenyan President William Ruto, alongside other regional leaders, held talks with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
Poll Names 2027 Presidential Challenger as Politicians Discuss Election Issues - December 2025
A recent Infotrak poll conducted between December 19 and December 20 indicates Fred Matiang'i is President Ruto's closest challenger for the 2027 presidential race, although 31 per cent of Kenyans remain undecided. On party politics, Suna East MP Junet Mohamed declared that only ODM party leader Oburu Odinga is constitutionally allowed to declare a presidential candidacy for the party. Mohamed also alleged former President Uhuru Kenyatta is funding dissent within ODM. Separately, Health CS Duale countered claims by Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi that the 2027 general elections could be nullified, clarifying that a September 2025 Supreme Court advisory did not fully address the boundary review issue due to the IEBC lacking a proper constitution.
Government Proposes Sale of 15% Safaricom Stake to Vodacom - December 2025
The Kenyan government's proposal to sell a 15 percent stake in Safaricom to Vodacom, a South African telecommunications company, has sparked significant controversy. A storm has erupted over this controversial plan as President Ruto pushes ahead with the sale. Critics argue this move could severely compromise Kenya's national sovereignty over critical digital infrastructure. Concerns are also being raised about data protection. This move has sparked significant division among the public.