July 6 - July 12, 2026
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, July 6 to Sunday, July 12, 2026, organized by weekday.
Monday
July 6
DP Kindiki tells off opposition over National Infrastructure Fund - July 2026
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has strongly defended the proposed National Infrastructure Fund, aimed at directing proceeds from asset sales into long-term development rather than recurrent expenditure. Kenya's government plans to increase funding for SACCOs by channeling resources through the National Infrastructure Fund (NIF), aiming to bolster the cooperative sector while freeing up national budget space for other priorities. President William Ruto has assented to the Central Bank of Kenya (Amendment) Act, 2026, introducing stricter conditions for banks seeking Emergency Liquidity Assistance from CBK.
Ruto urges Kenyans to reject tribal politics - July 2026
President William Ruto has implored Kenyans to reject tribal politics, emphasizing national unity as crucial for development and prosperity. Speaking in Embu County, he stated his administration's commitment to a unified approach to economic progress. Leaders from Western Kenya have declared their strong backing for President William Ruto as the 2027 election approaches. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua recently held political consultations with leaders from Gichugu, focusing on Kenya's political future and the potential formation of the '6th Administration.' His recent visit to the Coast region has ignited speculation regarding his evolving political strategy, while coastal leaders are urging implementation of the new administration's ten-point agenda.
DCI Arrests Alleged Mastermind Behind Fake KDF, NPS Recruitment - July 2026
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested a suspect believed to be the mastermind behind a scam that defrauded job seekers of over Ksh8.6 million by promising fictitious government jobs. Separately, the DCI is investigating a robbery in Westlands, Nairobi, where four armed suspects on two motorcycles stormed a restaurant, stole valuables, and fired two shots before escaping. Additionally, four suspected gangsters were killed in a shootout with the DCI and local police during an intelligence-led operation along the Eldoret-Kiplombe-Soy Road. Meanwhile, Nyaribari Chache MP Zaheer Jhanda has been summoned by the DCI in Kisii County to assist in the investigation of a violent attack on a convoy, while the arraignment of seven suspects in connection with a separate violent attack on a convoy at Keumbu has been postponed due to missing case files.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
July 7
Saba Saba Day: IG Kanja Conducts Security Assessment in Nairobi, Kiambu - July 2026
Following the commemoration of Saba Saba Day, Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja led a security assessment in parts of Nairobi and Kiambu counties, which saw heightened police presence and traffic disruptions. Nairobi Regional Police Commander Issa Mohamud had outlawed the planned Saba Saba Day march on Tuesday, July 7, stating that any participants will be treated as criminals. The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi issued a security alert for American citizens due to a heightened security presence anticipated nationwide on July 7, a day historically marked by protests. Kenyan police had dismissed planned Saba Saba protests, but activists insisted they would proceed with processions. Authorities stated they received no formal notification regarding planned protests.
Govt to introduce flexible SHA payment plan - July 2026
The Kenyan government is set to introduce flexible payment options, branded as 'Lipa SHA Pole Pole', to boost registration for the Social Health Authority (SHA) and enhance access to universal healthcare. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale reassured that the transition of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) workers to permanent and pensionable terms under county governments is progressing as planned. The Kenya School of Government (KSG) has launched an initiative to equip public servants with Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills, coinciding with the graduation of 432 Assistant County Commissioners and the induction of new Deputy County Commissioners.
DCI Launches Special Training to Respond to Bomb Attacks - July 2026
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched a specialized 7-week bomb technician training called the Explosive Incident Countermeasures Course to enhance national security preparedness against explosive threats. Detectives are investigating a possible link between four suspected gang members killed in Uasin Gishu County and the murder of a PCEA Reverend, as well as several violent robberies across the Rift Valley. Kisumu Central MP Joshua Oron has donated six motorbikes to chiefs and assistant chiefs in Kisumu Central to bolster security operations and combat rising crime.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
July 8
Saba Saba Day: IG Kanja Conducts Security Assessment in Nairobi, Kiambu - July 2026
Following the commemoration of Saba Saba Day, Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja led a security assessment in parts of Nairobi and Kiambu counties, which saw heightened police presence and traffic disruptions. Kisumu experienced an unusual calm during the annual Saba Saba commemorations, with activists cancelling planned protests due to fears of infiltration by criminal gangs and a lack of government security guarantees. Veterans of Kenya's 1990 Saba Saba struggle for democracy drew parallels between the historic pro-democracy protests and recent nationwide security crackdowns, arguing that the fight for accountable governance remains incomplete.
Dangote Confirms Lamu as Location for Ksh2.59 Trillion Oil Refinery - July 2026
Africa's richest man Aliko Dangote has officially confirmed Lamu, Kenya as the site for his planned Ksh2.59 trillion ($20 billion) East African oil refinery, ending speculation about its location. President William Ruto appointed Deputy President Kithure Kindiki to chair a government committee overseeing the implementation of the Ksh2.2 trillion East African oil refinery project in Lamu. The National Treasury plans to amend the Public-Private Partnerships Act, proposing to remove the 30-year limit on PPP contracts and alter the approval and oversight processes. Meanwhile, President Ruto signed the Sovereign Wealth Fund Act, 2026 into law, establishing Kenya's first national savings fund to manage oil and mineral wealth for future generations.
DCI Uncovers Suspected Gang Hideout in Eldoret, Recovers Military Gear - July 2026
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) uncovered a suspected gang hideout in Eldoret, recovering military-style gear linked to violent robberies across the North Rift. Detectives recovered Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) jungle jackets and other items believed to be linked to a gang impersonating security officers. Several police officers sustained injuries during an intelligence-led operation in Garissa County where three suspects were arrested with crude weapons. Police in Kenya also intercepted a public service vehicle and seized a significant haul of cannabis, arresting one passenger in connection with the illegal operation.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
July 9
Treasury Releases Sh1.5bn as Govt Clears Outstanding Payments for KCSE and KJSEA Examiners - July 2026
The National Treasury has released Sh1.5 billion to clear outstanding payments for examiners involved in the 2025 KCSE and KJSEA examinations, bringing relief to thousands of educators who marked the national examinations. Teachers who marked the 2025 KCSE and KJSEA examinations are now receiving their payments as the government has released funds for outstanding allowances. Separately, the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) is partnering with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to recover outstanding student loans from individuals in the informal sector. Additionally, the Kenyan government, in partnership with the World Bank, is injecting an additional Ksh3.06 billion into youth businesses through the second phase of the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) programme, benefiting 122,203 businesses.
Linda Mwananchi Sounds Alarm Ahead of Ol Kalou By-Election - July 2026
The Linda Mwananchi movement has accused the Kenyan government of using state resources to unfairly influence the upcoming Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, raising concerns about electoral fairness. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has launched investigations into alleged electoral malpractices, including bribery and violence, surrounding the Ol Kalou by-election. In a separate development, a student from St Francis Girls High School Mang'u was shot and injured by a stray bullet during chaotic scenes at a public event in Mang'u, Gatundu North Sub-County. The Linda Mwananchi movement has also accused President William Ruto's administration of fostering a 'mafia nation' characterised by violence, intimidation, and a breakdown of law and order, drawing parallels to Kenya's past struggles for democracy.
Treasury Defends Economic Policies While Managing Major Infrastructure Projects - July 2026
National Treasury and Economic Planning Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has defended the government's economic reform agenda, particularly the newly enacted Sovereign Wealth Fund, asserting it will secure Kenya's future. The National Treasury has defended its decision to scrap the original Nairobi-Nakuru-Mau Summit Highway contract, opting for a new toll-based model to improve fiscal sustainability. Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has appointed six members, including Lawrence Kibet and James Mworia, to the National Infrastructure Fund Board, signaling a significant step towards operationalizing the new fund. A Kenyan constitutional lawyer, Levi Munyeri, has threatened legal action against the government, demanding public participation before the construction of the proposed Ksh2.59 trillion Dangote oil refinery in Lamu.
More from Thursday:
Friday
July 10
IEBC Warns Ol Kalou Poll Could Be Cancelled Over Alleged Election Malpractice - July 2026
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has issued a stern warning that the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election could be cancelled due to allegations of malpractice, with questions raised regarding KSh10 billion worth of projects initiated in the constituency. The commission also warned the election may be postponed due to escalating insecurity in the region. Nine candidates are set to compete in the upcoming by-election. Mavoko MP Patrick Makau raised concerns about alleged voter bribery taking place ahead of the vote. DCP Party Leader Rigathi Gachagua criticized IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon over remarks suggesting potential postponement, while also accusing President Ruto's administration of planning to postpone the election due to fears of losing.
Ruto Orders Two-Year Licence Waiver for NYOTA Businesses - July 2026
President William Ruto has ordered county governments to waive business permit fees for two years for beneficiaries of the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Programme, aiming to reduce the cost of doing business for young entrepreneurs. He also directed government financing institutions to create a new funding product for beneficiaries who need expansion capital for their businesses. The second phase of the Nyota Start-Up Capital Programme, a five-year initiative, was launched at the Ulinzi Complex, with the government disbursing the second tranche to 122,000 young people. In Nakuru, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki launched the second phase of NYOTA Programme disbursements, while approximately 7,000 youth from Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, and Nandi counties received funding through the initiative.
Autopsy Fails to Determine KFS Legal Manager Wairimu Cause of Death - July 2026
An autopsy on the body of Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Legal Services Manager Esther Wairimu Keige has failed to determine the cause of her death due to advanced decomposition, with investigators awaiting toxicology results. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) stated that homicide has not been ruled out in her death, with her body discovered in Juja, Kiambu County. She had been battling depression and undergoing treatment according to police investigations. Lawyers nationwide held a Purple Ribbon March demanding swift investigations into the recent deaths of two advocates, Edward Kariuki and Esther Wairimu, under unclear circumstances.
More from Friday:
Saturday
July 11
Gachagua Demands IEBC's Erastus Ethekon Resignation Claiming 'Influence' in Ol Kalou By-Election - July 2026
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has called for the immediate resignation of IEBC Commissioner Erastus Ethekon, alleging that Ethekon exerted 'influence' during the Ol Kalou by-election. Gachagua has warned the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) against postponing the July 16 Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, stating it would erode trust for the 2027 General Election. National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah has announced his intention to sue former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over alleged voter bribery plots ahead of the Ol Kalou by-election. Kenya's Opposition is accusing the government of misusing state resources to unfairly influence the ongoing Ol Kalou by-election.
Government Strengthens School Health Systems Through SHA - July 2026
The Kenyan government is prioritizing the strengthening of school health systems to improve learner well-being and educational outcomes, including plans to accredit school clinics under the Social Health Authority (SHA). The government is also enhancing community health by verifying data with Community Health Promoters to ensure effective service planning and resource allocation. Amref International University (AMIU) is planning to establish the Beyond Zero Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital as a teaching facility to enhance training for healthcare professionals and improve maternal and child health services across Africa.
Kenya Extradites Afghan National to U.S. Over Drug, Firearms Charges - July 2026
Kenya has extradited an Afghan national, Abdul Zahir Qadeer, to the United States to face charges related to international narcotics trafficking and firearms offenses. The extradition was carried out following a formal request from the U.S. government.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
July 12
Kindiki Urges Focus on Ruto’s 2027 Re-election, Warns Against 2032 Distraction - July 2026
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has urged supporters of President William Ruto to prioritize consolidating support for the 2027 elections and halt campaigns for 2032. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula is simultaneously rallying support for President Ruto's 2027 re-election bid in Bungoma, highlighting development projects he claims demonstrate the Kenya Kwanza administration's commitment to the county. President William Ruto has separately stated that tribal politics are hindering Kenya's development and assured citizens of an all-inclusive approach to national progress. The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) is issuing stern warnings to candidates involved in political violence ahead of the 2027 General Election, as the government seeks to prevent election-related disturbances.
Sakaja Opens Expanded Renal Unit at Mama Lucy Hospital - July 2026
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has officially opened an expanded Renal Unit at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, significantly boosting dialysis services and specialized kidney care for residents. Separately, Amref International University has announced plans to establish the Beyond Zero Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital as a dedicated teaching facility, aiming to bolster training of future healthcare professionals and advance maternal and child health across Africa. An internal government assessment reveals that Kenya is well-equipped for detecting Ebola through surveillance and testing but faces significant weaknesses in patient treatment and sustaining outbreak operations, despite a regional resurgence of the virus.
DCI Arrests Prime Suspect in Joy Kanini Murder - July 2026
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested the prime suspect, John Nderitu Mureithi, in the murder of 25-year-old Joy Kanini Gathu, following a month-long investigation into the gruesome killing and dismemberment of Gathu's body in Nyeri County. Police in Thika West Sub-County have arrested seven people following a raid that uncovered a significant cache of illicit goods, including large quantities of ethanol and suspected counterfeit cigarettes. A Grade 10 student at Thika High School died following a physical altercation with a classmate over who would lead Friday evening prayers.