May 11 - May 17, 2026
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, May 11 to Sunday, May 17, 2026, organized by weekday.
Monday
May 11
Africa Forward Summit Brings Global Leaders to Nairobi - May 2026
President William Ruto and French President Emmanuel Macron graced the Africa Forward Summit 2026 at the University of Nairobi, marking the first time the summit is held outside France. The summit signals a shift towards inclusive Africa-Europe relationships based on investment and innovation rather than aid-centric models. At the same time, Ruto and Macron met with young innovators, entrepreneurs, and creatives at UON, reaffirming their commitment to supporting youth-led initiatives. Over 100 civil society organisations from 32 countries had warned leaders ahead of the summit that health sovereignty cannot be achieved without community participation. President Ruto also announced during the summit that Kenya is now manufacturing mobile phones and computers locally.
Public Participation Opens for Finance Bill 2026 Tax Proposals - May 2026
The National Assembly has invited public and stakeholder submissions on the proposed Finance Bill 2026, which includes controversial tax proposals affecting mobile phones, digital assets, and imported mitumba goods. President William Ruto assented to three major bills including the Income Tax (Amendment) Bill, aimed at reforming tax policies and fostering investment growth. Treasury CS John Mbadi stated the government is considering increasing the tax-free PAYE income threshold to Ksh 30,000 for salaried Kenyans earning below Ksh 50,000. The KRA has also announced that salaried Kenyans can file their annual income tax returns even without their P9 forms.
Digital Taxi Drivers Threaten Nationwide Strike Over Fuel Prices - May 2026
Digital taxi drivers in Kenya are threatening a nationwide strike on Monday, May 11, due to escalating fuel prices and stagnant fares. The operators threaten to disrupt transport services across Kenya in protest against rising fuel prices. A new report titled "The Bold Standard: Fuel Levy Trap" highlights concerns over the current fuel levy structure in Kenya. The government is also leveraging additional funds from the Fuel Levy to secure a new road loan totaling KSh 120 billion for infrastructure projects.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
May 12
France Offers KSh12.5B Nairobi Rail Deal, KSh106B Port Terminal - May 2026
France has committed KSh12.5 billion to modernize the Nairobi commuter rail network, announced during President Emmanuel Macron's visit to Nairobi. France also announced plans to build a new KSh106 billion port terminal in Kenya. Macron halted the Africa Forward Summit youth forum over noise, calling it a "total lack of respect." However, Macron joined Kenyan marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge for a morning run in Nairobi ahead of the summit. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua linked Macron's visit to a disputed KSh7 billion payout concerning the cancelled Rironi-Mau Summit Road project.
Ruto, UN Chief Launch Nairobi UN Expansion - May 2026
President William Ruto and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres launched the expansion and modernization of the United Nations Office at Nairobi on May 11, 2026, reinforcing the city's status as a global diplomacy hub. The project, valued at Sh43.8 billion, aims to bolster Nairobi's role as a global hub for multilateral diplomacy. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres hailed Nairobi as a critical pillar of global multilateralism during the launch. President Ruto announced the expansion would position Nairobi as a global hub for diplomacy and conferences, bolstered by significant government investment in infrastructure. Additionally, Kenya and France partnered in advancing the digital economy to drive cross-border trade and create opportunities for African youth.
NTSA Launches e-Logbook System June 10 - May 2026
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) is launching a nationwide 10-day virtual sensitisation programme ahead of the official rollout of its eLogbook system on June 10, 2026, which will replace paper-based logbooks. The NTSA defended its shift to electronic logbooks, stating it is crucial to enhance vehicle registration efficiency and bolster road safety. It assured staff that the transition would not lead to job losses despite fears of sacking over 200 employees. The NTSA listed 10 features of the new e-logbooks set ahead of the rollout designed to curb fraud and improve efficiency.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
May 13
Ruto, Macron champion new Africa-France partnership at Nairobi summit - May 2026
President William Ruto and French President Emmanuel Macron championed a new Africa-France partnership at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, emphasizing mutual respect and shared responsibility over dependency. The summit produced an 11-point declaration focusing on peace, agriculture, health, energy, digital transformation, and economic growth. Ahead of G7 talks, the two leaders advocated for Africa's financial sovereignty and greater role in global decision-making. Meanwhile, former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria criticized former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for his remarks on the summit, accusing him of undermining Kenya's international standing. Gachagua had dismissed the conference and questioned the motives behind Macron's visit.
Dr. Gikonyo confirms treating ex-DP Gachagua during impeachment trial - May 2026
Karen Hospital Founder and Chief Cardiologist Dr. Daniel Gikonyo has confirmed in court that he treated former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua for chest pains during his impeachment trial. The cardiologist revealed that President William Ruto personally called him to inquire about Gachagua's medical condition when he was admitted to Karen Hospital in October 2024. Dr. Gikonyo stated that Gachagua received medical treatment on the very day his impeachment hearing was scheduled. A Kenyan court ruled that employees can no longer instantly resign or retire to evade disciplinary action, clarifying that immediate resignation does not shield individuals from accountability for workplace offenses.
Treasury Unveils Changes at State Firms as MPs Question Rental Costs - May 2026
The Kenyan Treasury has initiated a significant restructuring of its Government Owned Enterprises (GOEs) by announcing dozens of new board positions according to the GOEs Act, 2025. Members of Parliament have strongly criticized the government's continued spending on rented office spaces and renovations, particularly given budget cuts threatening digitization programs. Separately, the Senate ordered the National Treasury to immediately reverse a decision to freeze funding to Meru County, citing unconstitutional procedures and potential damage to devolution. The Division of Revenue Bill for the 2026/27 financial year is now headed for mediation between the Senate and the National Assembly after the Senate approved a new clause impacting county funding.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
May 14
NEMA Arrests 13 Business Proprietors Without Environmental Licences - May 2026
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has arrested 13 proprietors in Kitui County for operating businesses, including hotels, hospitals, and petrol stations, without the mandatory environmental licences. Environmental activists and civil society groups are simultaneously strongly opposing a proposed amendment to Kenya's Forest Conservation and Management Act, 2016, arguing the changes could permit infrastructure and commercial developments within protected public forests. Meanwhile, the government has extended operating hours at 20 select Huduma Centres across the country to 7 am to 7 pm to improve service delivery and reduce congestion.
Ruto Awards Charters to Research Institutions, Announces Private Lab Plan - May 2026
President William Ruto has declared that investing in science, technology, and innovation is crucial for Kenya's prosperity and global competitiveness, awarding charters to two key research institutions. He has also announced plans to establish a private laboratory on his farm, signaling a significant push to prioritize research and innovation in Kenya's development agenda. Additionally, the Kenyan government is set to implement a nationwide wastewater surveillance system to monitor drug and alcohol abuse trends across all 47 counties, based on a NACADA study that uncovered the alarming emergence of synthetic drugs and clandestine drug laboratories.
Bitok Directs School Heads to Curb Unrest Amid Second Term Crisis - May 2026
Kenya's Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok has directed school heads and education officials to implement proactive measures to curb rising unrest in schools, particularly during the crucial second term. This directive comes after Magereza Academy in Naivasha was closed indefinitely following a dormitory fire that occurred on Wednesday, May 13, with four students arrested in connection with the incident. Separately, the Kenya Bankers Association is advocating for a unified 5% reduction in Pay As You Earn (PAYE) taxes across all income brackets to stimulate the Kenyan economy.
More from Thursday:
Friday
May 15
Petrol Price Rises by Ksh 16, Diesel Ksh 46 in New Review - May 2026
Kenyan motorists are bracing for significant pain at the pump as fuel prices surge in the latest review by the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA). The new prices, effective from 15th May to 14th June 2026, see a substantial jump in the cost of Super Petrol and Diesel, with petrol increasing by Ksh 16.65 and diesel by Ksh 46.29 per litre. Motorists and households in Kenya are facing significantly higher transport and energy costs as a result of these changes. Additionally, fuel stations across Kenya are experiencing widespread stock-outs due to a cash-flow crisis at the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) and delays in subsidy payments. Matatu operators have announced a proposed 50% fare hike and threatened a nationwide strike starting Monday if the government fails to intervene on rising fuel costs. Kiharu Member of Parliament Ndindi Nyoro has proposed immediate legislative changes including VAT cuts and levy removal to significantly reduce fuel prices below Sh190 per litre.
Mudavadi Leads Kenyan Delegation to World Urban Forum 13 in Baku - May 2026
Kenya's Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi is leading a delegation to Baku, Azerbaijan, for the World Urban Forum 13 (WUF13), a major global summit focused on sustainable urban development and the housing crisis. The PCS arrived in Azerbaijan to represent Kenya at the forum which focuses on the global housing crisis. Konza Technopolis hosted the inaugural IPDAYS Nairobi x Silicon Savannah Startup Fair 2026, fostering cross-border collaboration among startups, investors, and policymakers from Tunisia, Egypt, and Kenya. The International Vaccine Institute (IVI) will establish an office in Nairobi, Kenya, to serve as a hub for its continental development program, aiming to bolster vaccine manufacturing and research capabilities across Africa. Kenya has made regional history by launching its first comprehensive wastewater-based epidemiology report for drug control, a groundbreaking scientific approach to monitoring drug consumption trends in East Africa.
Ruto's UDA Wins Three By-elections Across Narok, Samburu and Elgeyo Marakwet - May 2026
President William Ruto's United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party secured a significant victory by winning all three by-elections held in Narok, Samburu, and Elgeyo Marakwet counties, bolstering the ruling party's position ahead of the 2027 elections. David Kipsang Keter of UDA won the Emurua Dikirr Constituency by-election, securing the parliamentary seat while defeating DCP. The Maendeleo Chap Chap Party has announced its decision to remain an independent political entity within the Kenya Kwanza Coalition, rejecting proposals for a merger with the ruling UDA. Meanwhile, Members of the National Assembly are challenging the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) over its Sh1.5 billion funding request and effectiveness in curbing hate speech.
More from Friday:
Saturday
May 16
Long Distance Buses Begin Fare Hikes for Kenyans Travelling Upcountry - May 2026
Long-distance bus companies in Kenya have begun implementing fare hikes just days after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced significant increases in fuel prices. Transport operators across Kenya are simultaneously demanding the immediate disbandment of EPRA and threatening a nationwide strike starting Monday due to unsustainable fuel price increases. The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry is urgently calling for a review of fuel taxes and levies, especially on diesel, due to soaring prices that threaten business sustainability and increase the cost of living. Meanwhile, the Kenyan Shilling experienced marginal depreciation against the U.S. Dollar and Euro during the week ending May 15, influenced by global energy shocks and rising international crude oil prices. Former Chief Justice David Maraga has stated that Kenya could have avoided its current fuel crisis through better resource management and sustainable investments.
New outbreak of Ebola kills 80 in eastern DR Congo - May 2026
Africa's top health agency has declared an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo's eastern Ituri province, with 80 deaths reported among at least 246 cases. The Democratic Republic of Congo has confirmed a new Ebola outbreak in its eastern Ituri province, with the outbreak involving the Bundibugyo strain of the virus. Kenya's Ministry of Health has heightened Ebola surveillance and preparedness measures following the confirmed outbreak in the eastern DRC, while also assuring the public that there are no confirmed cases of Ebola in Kenya and urging continued vigilance.
Opposition Candidate Secures 10,760 Votes in Ruto's Backyard - May 2026
In the Emurua Dikirr by-election, an opposition candidate, Felix Kibet Rotich of the DCP party, secured a significant 10,760 votes, challenging the ruling UDA party in what is considered President William Ruto's backyard. Meanwhile, opposition leaders have reiterated their pledge to unite and form a formidable force to challenge and potentially unseat President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election. Separately, opposition factions including the United Opposition and the Linda Mwananchi faction of the ODM party have publicly vowed to unite and field a single presidential candidate to challenge President William Ruto in the 2027 General Election.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
May 17
President Ruto Arrives in Azerbaijan for World Urban Forum - May 2026
President William Ruto arrived in Baku, Azerbaijan, to attend the 13th Session of the World Urban Forum, an event where Kenya was specifically invited due to its progress in housing and urban development. The President will advocate for global housing finance reforms at WUF13, aiming to secure more flexible and accessible financing for developing nations. Kenya aims to showcase its Affordable Housing Programme as a successful model for sustainable urban development. Separately, Kenya's President met with Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev to discuss energy cooperation amidst rising fuel prices and global oil shocks. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi announced emergency talks with President Ruto to address soaring fuel prices following threats of a nationwide strike by transport operators. Meanwhile, CS Wandayi defended the G-to-G fuel deal and accused Gachagua of politicising energy reforms.
Govt Upgrades Homa Bay Commissioner Residence to State Lodge - May 2026
The Kenyan government has officially designated the Homa Bay County Commissioner's Residence as a State Lodge, elevating its status for official state functions. The Interior Ministry gazetted this upgrade as declared by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen. The National Land Commission announced plans for compulsory land acquisition in Meru County for the realignment of the Nithi River Bridge to facilitate the Makutano-Embu-Meru (A9) Road Project.
Diaspora to Get Seats in Senate Under Gachagua Plan - May 2026
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has pledged to nominate Kenyans from the diaspora to legislative bodies and county assemblies if he is elected President in 2027. Gachagua launched the Democratic Change Party UK Diaspora Chapter in London, UK, during a political outreach tour aimed at engaging Kenyans abroad and outlining his vision for a better Kenya. The Kuppet union has issued strong demands to the Teachers Service Commission focusing on promotions, allowances, and intern teachers.