February 16 - February 22, 2026
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, February 16 to Sunday, February 22, 2026, organized by weekday.
Monday
February 16
Authorities Warn of Recruitment Scams; SHA Identity Fraud Delays Family Burial - February 2026
The Kenyan Embassy in Moscow has issued a warning to citizens against using informal and unverified recruitment channels for job opportunities in Russia. This advisory follows an increase in reports of deceptive job offers from unverified agents and online recruiters. Similarly, the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has issued an urgent warning to the public regarding fake employment offer letters circulating on social media. These fraudulent schemes demand payments from Kenyans for positions like Administrative Assistant. In a separate case involving identity fraud, a Nairobi family faces a two-month delay in burying their relative, Antony, after he fraudulently used his brother's identity to access medical care at Mbagathi Hospital under the Social Health Authority (SHA), prompting a fraud investigation.
Governors Boycott Senate as Debates Continue on NG-CDF and Nairobi Governance - February 2026
The Council of Governors (CoG) has initiated a boycott of Senate oversight committees, leading to a suspension of appearances before the County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC). The CoG cited claims of extortion and harassment by some senators as the reason for the boycott, which human rights groups warned undermines accountability. In a separate matter concerning governance, Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja expressed strong opposition to proposals to place Nairobi County under a Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He warned this move would lead to financial crises, referencing the period under the Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS). Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula defended the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF), stating that it complements rather than duplicates the work of county governments.
ODM Factions Clash and Hold Separate Rallies; Sifuna-led Rally Teargassed - February 2026
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is experiencing internal divisions, with two factions holding separate rallies on Sunday. The factions are reportedly led by Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna and Oburu Oginga, with both camps advocating for a party "rebirth" ahead of the next General Election. Amidst these divisions, police are facing condemnation after deploying teargas during a peaceful Linda Mwananchi rally in Kitengela Town, Kajiado County, on Sunday. The teargassed rally was led by Edwin Sifuna. An attempt to remove Sifuna from his secretary-general position has also reignited discussions about disunity within the party.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
February 17
Governor Sakaja Signs Nairobi-National Government Cooperation Deal Amidst Warnings - February 2026
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja signed a cooperation deal with the National Government at State House on February 17, 2026. President William Ruto clarified that the agreement is a new partnership framework for collaboration on key areas and not a takeover of county functions. Prior to the signing, Nairobi County Senator Edwin Sifuna issued a strong warning to Governor Sakaja regarding the planned agreement. Similarly, the Katiba Institute, a lobby group, formally demanded answers from the governor about the collaboration. Concurrently, President Ruto directed the Cabinet Secretary for Interior to establish a dedicated Nairobi Metropolitan Police Unit within 60 days to address security challenges in the capital.
Aviation Workers' Strike Called Off After Causing Major Flight Disruptions at JKIA - February 2026
The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) called off its strike after reaching an agreement with the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA). The strike had entered a second day, causing significant flight disruptions and cancellations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and other airports over unresolved grievances dating back to 2015. Kenya Airways (KQ) had warned passengers of flight delays of up to four hours due to the industrial action. Pilots also raised safety concerns, with the Kenya Airline Pilots Association (KALPA) warning of increased fatigue risks for flight crews due to unpredictable schedules and extended duty periods, which could potentially compromise flight safety. The calling off of the strike followed the deal reached between KAWU and the government.
Barcelona Suffers La Liga Defeat; PSG and Benfica Prepare for Champions League Playoffs - February 2026
Barcelona suffered a significant blow to their La Liga title defense after losing 2-1 to Girona in a derby match on Monday, February 16, 2026, leaving them two points behind league leaders Real Madrid. In other league news, Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams is sidelined indefinitely with a groin problem, as announced by the club on Monday. Meanwhile, in the Champions League, Paris Saint-Germain coach Luis Enrique has downplayed suggestions of dressing room issues ahead of their playoff first leg against domestic rivals Monaco. In a separate fixture, Benfica coach Jose Mourinho addressed rumors of a return to Real Madrid before their UEFA Champions League play-off rematch, confirming he has a contract clause allowing him to leave but stressing it was related to upcoming club elections.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
February 18
Politicians and Activists Allege Police Misconduct and Demand Investigations - February 2026
Several public figures have raised alarms over alleged police misconduct. Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei is demanding investigations into the alleged use of police officers to recover debts, specifically citing incidents where dairy cows were confiscated in Mosoriot Village. In Mwala, MP Vincent Musyoka Kawaya has publicly demanded action against the Mbiuni OCS, Francis Mutua, accusing the officer of leading a criminal gang. In a separate incident, the family of Vincent Ayomo, who was allegedly shot dead by police during a rally in Kitengela, is experiencing delays with his post-mortem. Activist Boniface Mwangi also expressed fear for his life after a report revealed authorities installed spyware on his phone during a July 2025 arrest. These events have led Embakasi East MP Babu Owino to support calls for the resignation of Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja.
High Court Declares Petition Challenging Ksh80 Billion Ruto-Sakaja Nairobi Deal as Urgent - February 2026
President William Ruto and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja signed a Ksh80 billion cooperation pact to support development projects in the city. President Ruto assured residents that the agreement is not a takeover of county functions and that Nairobi remains under Governor Sakaja's leadership. However, a petition was filed challenging the constitutionality of the cooperation deal. The High Court has declared this petition urgent, setting a hearing for March 16. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has also opposed the deal, labeling it an unlawful power grab and suggesting that conditional grants would be a more appropriate way for the national government to provide support.
New Director Generals Appointed for KeNHA, KeRRA, NTSA, and Kenya Roads Board - February 2026
Several key transport agencies have new leadership following a series of appointments. The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) board appointed Engineer Luka Kimeli as its new Director General, effective February 17. Jackson Magondu has been officially appointed as the Director General of the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA), also effective February 17 and for a three-year term. The Kenya Roads Board (KRB) appointed Judith Otsyula as its new Director General, making her the first woman to hold the position. Additionally, Nashon Kondiwa has been appointed as the new Director General of the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) for a three-year term, taking over from George Njao.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
February 19
President Ruto Signs Bills to Decentralize Civil Registration and Reform Other Sectors - February 2026
President William Ruto has signed the Births and Deaths Registration (Amendment) Bill into law. This mandates the establishment of at least one registration office in each of Kenya's 290 sub-counties to improve access to essential documents. The President assented to the bill at State House, Nairobi, where he also signed two other significant bills. These included the Pyrethrum Repeal Bill 2024 and the Social Work Professionals Bill 2023. These new laws aim to streamline agricultural sectors and professionalize social work in the country.
Russian Embassy Denies Recruiting Kenyans Following NIS Report of Over 1,000 Fighting for Russia - February 2026
A National Intelligence Service (NIS) report revealed that over 1,000 Kenyans are reportedly fighting for Russia in the Russia-Ukraine war. The findings, presented in Parliament, suggest some were enticed by high salaries and promises of Russian citizenship. In response, the Russian Embassy in Nairobi denied the allegations of recruiting Kenyans, calling the claims "dangerous and misleading propaganda." The embassy stated that Kenyans are free to join its armed forces if they are legally present in Russia. Kenya's DCI also reportedly uncovered a network facilitating recruitment.
High Court Upholds Privatisation Act, Clearing Sale of State Firms Including KPC - February 2026
The High Court in Kenya has dismissed petitions challenging the Privatisation Act, 2025. This ruling clears the way for the government to proceed with the sale of stakes in major State-owned enterprises. The decision specifically paves the way for the proposed privatization of the Kenya Pipeline Company Limited (KPC). The court's upholding of the act allows the government to move forward with its multi-billion plan to sell stakes in various state firms.
More from Thursday:
Friday
February 20
Opposition Announces Rallies Amid Police Warnings and Teargas Probes - February 2026
The United Opposition alliance, led by Kalonzo Musyoka and Rigathi Gachagua, announced it will hold multiple rallies in Nairobi and other counties starting Sunday, warning Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja against interference. The alliance has cancelled a planned march to the police headquarters and instead vowed to pursue private prosecutions against twelve police officers. This relates to the investigation of the January 25 Witima ACK Church attack. In response to protests, IG Kanja warned that financial strain within the National Police Service could force officers to use live ammunition. Meanwhile, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen stated that teargas used at opposition rallies may not be from police, prompting an investigation into how civilians came to possess teargas canisters.
Charles Kanjama Elected 52nd President of the Law Society of Kenya - February 2026
Senior Counsel Charles Kanjama has been elected the 52nd President of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) in the election held on February 19. He secured 3,728 votes to defeat rivals Peter Wanyama and outgoing Vice President Mwaura Kabata. Kanjama will succeed Faith Odhiambo and lead the organization of over 20,000 practising advocates for a two-year term. During the election, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula was barred from voting. His name was found to be missing from the voter register due to the absence of a valid practicing certificate, which is a legal requirement to vote in the LSK elections.
Government Announces Road Project Resumptions and Expansions After Clearing Bills - February 2026
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki announced that the government has cleared Ksh 177 billion in pending bills owed to contractors. This move allows for the resumption of 6,000 kilometers of road projects that had stalled since 2020. In a related development, President William Ruto announced that the dualling of the Makutano-Embu-Meru-Maua highway will commence by the end of this year or early next year. This highway project is part of a wider government plan to expand the country's road network by 2,500 kilometres over the next decade. Additionally, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) is planning more demolitions along Thika Road to clear structures from road reserves and create space for modern bus parks.
More from Friday:
Saturday
February 21
Teargas Disrupts Sifuna's Kakamega Rally Amid ODM Factional Disputes - February 2026
Oburu Odinga challenged a faction within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) linked to Edwin Sifuna and Babu Owino to leave the party. Senator Oburu Oginga stated that while the party is ready to negotiate policies, members uncomfortable with ODM are free to leave. Concurrently, a political rally in Kakamega led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, called the Linda Mwananchi rally, proceeded despite police warnings. The event was briefly disrupted by tear gas shortly after it began, causing chaos among supporters. However, the crowds were largely unmoved, and Sifuna urged them to remain as the rally ultimately continued after a short pause.
Kenya Meteorological Department Issues Heavy Rainfall Advisory for Multiple Counties - February 2026
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued warnings for heavy rainfall across various regions of Kenya. The advisory forecasts intensified rain from Saturday afternoon to Tuesday evening, affecting areas including the Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley, Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, and Nairobi. The alert, which also covers Kiambu and 20 other counties, warns of moderate to heavy rainfall, isolated storms, and potential flooding in prone areas. In response to the weather, MOJA Expressway Company issued a cautionary advisory to motorists using the Nairobi Expressway, outlining safety measures to prevent accidents during the rainy season.
Government Cites Budgetary Constraints for Delayed Payments to 2025 National Exam Staff - February 2026
The Kenyan government attributed the delayed payment of personnel who administered the 2025 national examinations to budgetary and cash flow constraints. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba acknowledged concerns from hundreds of supervisors, invigilators, examiners, and security personnel regarding their unpaid allowances. CS Julius Ogamba has since promised to fast-track payments for all staff involved. Separately, the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) has issued demands to the government concerning outstanding labour agreements, specifically the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), warning of potential industrial action.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
February 22
Kenya Airways Cancels New York Flights Due to US Blizzard - February 2026
Kenyans residing in New York are on high alert as a powerful Nor'easter storm is forecast to bring heavy snow and blizzard conditions to the East Coast of the United States. Kenya Airways has cancelled two flights on its Nairobi-New York route due to a severe blizzard warning and subsequent suspension of operations at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York. The airline cancelled flights between Nairobi and New York due to severe weather conditions, specifically a Blizzard Warning and heavy snowfall impacting JFK.
Ruto Cautions Kiambu Leaders Over Githurai Demolitions; Murkomen Warns Gachagua, Denies Police Role in Kakamega Teargassing - February 2026
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has threatened to arrest leaders orchestrating chaos at political meetings, accusing them of seeking public sympathy. He specifically targeted former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua. CS Murkomen denied police involvement in the teargassing incident at an ODM rally in Kakamega, attributing the accusations to politicians seeking to incite the public and blame law enforcement. President William Ruto issued a public caution to Kiambu County leaders, urging unity and an end to blame games, particularly following recent demolitions in Githurai.
Heavy Rainfall Alerts and Flood Warnings - February 2026
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a 24-hour alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall across several parts of Kenya, including Nairobi, starting Sunday, February 28th. Residents in several parts of Kenya, including Nairobi, Kiambu, and Kisumu, should prepare for heavy to very heavy rainfall within the next 24 hours. Another advisory forecasts moderate to heavy rainfall with isolated storms, particularly affecting the Lake Victoria Basin, Rift Valley, and Highlands East and West of the Rift Valley, including Nairobi.