August 31 - September 6, 2026
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, August 31 to Sunday, September 6, 2026, organized by weekday.
Monday
August 31
Maraga Releases Police Reform Report, Questions Uniform Procurement - August 2026
Former Chief Justice David Maraga has released a long-awaited Police Reforms Report that was handed to President William Ruto on November 16, 2023, citing a nearly three-year delay in implementation. Maraga emphasized the critical need to restore the National Police Service's independence and warned that a partisan police force could lead to post-election chaos if reforms are not implemented. He has raised concerns about alleged corruption and lack of transparency in the procurement of new police uniforms, a Sh2.8 billion tender that has drawn scrutiny from multiple quarters. Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i has also criticized the Ruto administration's costly approach to the uniform initiative, arguing it overlooks existing state capacity. The National Police Service has denied claims that Nalitex Limited secured the tender, revealing the company actually awarded the contract while refuting earlier reports. Opposition leaders are demanding the cancellation of the Sh2.8 billion tender, questioning government spending priorities amid ongoing fiscal pressures.
Hundreds Remain Stranded as Aviation Workers' Strike Enters Day Two - August 2026
A strike by Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) members has entered its second day at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and other Kenyan airports, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded and flights delayed or diverted. The strike has caused widespread flight cancellations and delays for local and international travellers, with Kenya Airways reporting disruptions exceeding six hours. Meanwhile, talks aimed at resolving the strike have stalled for a second consecutive day, with negotiations between union representatives and aviation authorities remaining pending. Passengers at multiple airports, including Moi International Airport in Mombasa, continue to face significant travel disruptions amid the ongoing industrial action.
Rising Lake Baringo Pushes Crocodiles Into Homes as KWS Relocates Reptiles - August 2026
Rising waters of Lake Baringo are forcing crocodiles into residential areas, prompting the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to intervene and relocate the reptiles from populated zones. Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja is urging residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate early in anticipation of the El Niño season, which is forecast to begin in October, with preparations underway for potential heavy rains. Fire has ravaged hundreds of acres of Aberdare Forest, adding to environmental concerns as Kenya faces multiple climate-related emergencies across different regions of the country.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
September 1
Aviation Workers End Strike After Government Deal - September 2026
The Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) ended its two-day strike after reaching a return-to-work agreement with the government, allowing normal operations to resume at affected airports. The strike had paralyzed operations at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and other airports across Kenya, leaving numerous passengers stranded since August 31, 2026. The Kenyan government issued an apology for disruptions at JKIA following the aviation workers' strike that entered its second day. Kenya Airways waived rebooking fees for passengers affected by the strike. Kenya Railways introduced special train services between Nairobi and Mombasa to accommodate travellers affected by aviation sector disruptions.
El Nino Rains: Seven Things Government Does to Protect Citizens from Floods - September 2026
The Kenyan government unveiled a National Contingency Plan with seven measures to mitigate the impact of expected above-normal rainfall from the upcoming El Niño season, beginning in October. The Kenya Red Cross issued a warning that 46 out of 47 counties are at high risk of experiencing above-average rainfall, with inadequate drainage systems and blocked flood paths potentially transforming anticipated rains into a significant disaster. Antony Muchiri confirmed that 46 counties face above-average rainfall. The government is implementing measures to protect schools, learners, and national examinations from anticipated disruptions. Residents of Githunguri proactively cleaned their drainage systems to mitigate heavy rains and potential floods.
Ruto Appoints Duncan Ojwang as IPOA Chairperson for Six Years - September 2026
President William Ruto appointed Duncan Ojwang as the new Chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) for a six-year term. This was part of broader appointments to key public institutions, including the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) where former KNUT Secretary General Wilson Sossion was appointed. The President gazetted new appointments to IPOA, TSC and PSC. Separately, a General Service Unit (GSU) officer allegedly attached to a Rift Valley governor was arrested in Eldoret following the murder of a 45-year-old nurse, and a suspect connected to the murder of Dr Victoria Mutiso was also implicated in a scam involving fake TSC job placements.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
September 2
Standard Group Associate Editor Alex Kiprotich Abducted Along Gilgil-Nakuru Road - September 2026
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has ordered an immediate investigation into the alleged abduction of Standard Group Media editor Alex Kiprotich, who was reportedly taken by armed men near Gilgil Weighbridge on Tuesday night and later found dumped near Masinga Dam. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) is demanding an immediate investigation, with CPJ Africa Director Angela Quintal condemning the incident as a "shameful indictment" of the Kenya Kwanza administration. The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) warned of impunity while demanding a thorough investigation, highlighting growing concern over attacks against journalists. Human rights organizations including KHRC and Amnesty are demanding the arrest and prosecution of individuals responsible. Journalists in Meru town demonstrated on September 2, 2026, against the abduction and the assault on K24 Journalist Nelson Mutwiri. The Kenya Editors Guild is demanding a thorough investigation, with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) spokesperson Odhiambo Otieno condemning the regime's actions as shameful intimidation of the media.
DPP Charges Ex-Governor Mwangi Wa Iria Afresh in Ksh351 Million Case - September 2026
Former Murang'a County Governor Mwangi Wa Iria and eight others have been charged afresh in the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court over an alleged fraud involving Ksh351,097,491.15. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested four Chinese nationals in Nairobi in connection with an alleged SIM-swap and money-laundering scheme. A former Machakos County Chief Officer has been charged by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) for allegedly using forged academic certificates to secure employment and earn over Sh1.5 million in salary.
NCIC Summons Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku Over Alleged Hate Speech - September 2026
The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has summoned Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku over remarks suggesting political parties should not nominate non-Maasai candidates for certain positions, with the commission citing alleged ethnic incitement and hate speech. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has made claims alleging plans to manipulate the 2027 General Election, which IEBC Chairman Erastus Ethekon has strongly refuted. Separately, a General Service Unit (GSU) officer accused of fatally shooting a nurse has been granted an additional 21 days in custody as investigations continue, with the incident occurring on August 30 at a GSU officers' mess in Eldoret.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
September 3
Abductors linked to Cabinet Secretary's office in Kiprotich abduction - September 2026
Standard Group Associate Editor Alex Kiprotich was abducted after leaving the company offices and later found abandoned near the Masinga Dam. The attackers interrogated him about the newspaper's critical reporting and political matters. A shadowy unit within the Kenyan police service linked to targeting government critics was reportedly behind the abduction. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has questioned the credibility of an investigation ordered by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja into the abduction, stating Kanja cannot credibly probe the matter. Kenyan leaders across the political spectrum are demanding an independent and transparent investigation into the alleged abduction that occurred along the Nairobi-Nakuru highway in Gilgil. Kiprotich was found safe after spending approximately nine hours with his alleged captors before returning to work. The vehicle used in the incident has reportedly been linked to a government minister's office.
Ruto Orders Multi-Billion Company Out of the Country - September 2026
President William Ruto has ordered Tata Chemicals Magadi to cease operations and leave Kenya immediately, citing over a century of resource exploitation without benefit to Kajiado County residents. The closure affects a company operating in Kajiado County for decades that failed to invest locally despite extracting resources. The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) has accused the Kenyan government of economic sabotage and President William Ruto of pursuing personal gain following the suspension of operations. The President has also assured Kajiado residents that Amboseli National Park will soon be fully under their management, despite a temporary court injunction currently in place.
WMO Gives Nearly 100% Chance of El Niño Persisting Into February 2027 - September 2026
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has issued a near 100% probability that El Niño conditions will persist until February 2027, a significant increase from previous forecasts. Kenya is bracing for a largely dry September with below-average rainfall and warmer temperatures predicted across the country. The Kenya Meteorological Service Authority (KMSA) has issued a warning of below-average rainfall across several key agricultural regions in Kenya for September, sparking concerns for food security. The Kenyan Ministry of Health has activated its El Niño Contingency Plan to address potential health risks from anticipated heavy rains and flooding, with officials on high alert for emergencies including pandemics and trauma.
More from Thursday:
Friday
September 4
79 Reported Dead as Nurses' Strike Persists Into Fifth Week - September 2026
Kenya is facing a severe public health crisis as the nurses' strike has now entered its 37th day, with reports indicating 79 deaths during this period. Health professionals have warned of a growing crisis as maternal and newborn deaths surge, with nearly 80 mothers and babies dying in just three days. Professional health bodies are expressing alarm over the significant increase in maternal and prenatal deaths, directly linking the rise to the ongoing strike. However, medical services in Kericho County are showing signs of improvement following the county government's recruitment of nurses on a contractual basis.
TSC, KNEC Begin Teacher Assignment for 2026 National Exams - September 2026
The Teachers Service Commission and the Kenya National Examinations Council have commenced the process of identifying and deploying teachers for the 2026 national examinations and assessments. The Ministry of Education has revised rules for school events ahead of the 2026 national examinations to minimize disruptions for candidates. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba met with Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers officials to discuss a significant shortfall in government capitation to schools. Separately, KUPPET is threatening countywide action in Nyamira County over alleged intimidation of a school principal by Catholic clergy and the Board of Management.
Murkomen Demands Investigation Into Journalist Abduction - September 2026
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has strongly condemned the abduction of a Standard journalist and called for a speedy investigation into the incident, emphasizing the importance of protecting media freedom. Murkomen has also refuted claims of a rogue police command structure amidst rising concerns over abductions, asserting that all police units operate under Inspector-General Douglas Kanja. He has further ordered the Inspector General of Police to ensure journalists receive adequate security, especially during political events leading up to the 2027 General Elections.
More from Friday:
Saturday
September 5
Ruto Defends Police Reforms, IG Kanja's Authority - September 2026
President William Ruto has refuted claims that his administration has stalled police reforms, emphasizing his commitment to implementing reforms within the Kenyan security sector. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has reaffirmed that the Inspector General of Police holds constitutional command over the National Police Service, assuring that the government respects the office's independence. These statements come as the government faces scrutiny over various security issues.
UN Approves Resolution for Accurate World Maps Led by African Group - September 2026
The United Nations General Assembly has adopted a resolution, spearheaded by Togo on behalf of the African Group, to promote more accurate world maps that better represent the relative size of continents, particularly Africa. This initiative aims to counter the distortions of the centuries-old Mercator projection. Kenya is set to get a new representation as 164 countries approved changes to world maps. The United States was the sole country to vote against the African Union-backed resolution urging use of the Equal Earth map.
Detectives Investigate Abduction of Standard Group Editor Alex Kiprotich - September 2026
The Standard Group has publicly criticized the authorities for the significant delay in investigating the abduction of its Associate Editor, Alex Kiprotich, and his driver. Detectives are investigating the abduction with a specific vehicle being examined as part of the inquiry. The Kenyan government is facing intense criticism following alleged abductions, with the case of Alex Kiprotich becoming a central focus amid concerns over human rights and government accountability.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
September 6
Gachagua Vows to Deputise Sifuna in 2027 Presidential Race - September 2026
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has declared his willingness to serve as Edwin Sifuna's running mate in the 2027 presidential election if the Nairobi Senator can demonstrate the numbers to defeat President William Ruto. Gachagua leads the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) and expressed his willingness to deputize Sifuna after earlier declarations. Meanwhile, Bishop Margaret Wanjiru, leader of the Kenya Moja party (K1), has declared alignment with the opposition and announced her candidacy for Nairobi Governor on the K1 ticket. Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has strongly condemned the abduction of Standard Group Associate Editor Alex Kiprotich, vowing that the fight for democracy and media freedom will be central to the Linda Mwananchi government's agenda in their bid to unseat President William Ruto.
Two Women Arrested at JKIA with 658 Grams of Gold Concealed Under Hijab - September 2026
Two women were arrested at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Friday while attempting to smuggle approximately 658 grams of gold out of Kenya to Dubai. The gold was concealed under a hijab and in a bra during the smuggling attempt. Separately, Kisauni detectives arrested a suspect and rescued two minors who were abducted and held captive for several days in Kiambu County. Meanwhile, a man in Machakos was arrested for allegedly defrauding a buyer of Sh2.4 million by posing as a genuine landowner.
Nairobi County Announces 2027 Land Rates - September 2026
Nairobi City County has announced new land rates and valuation rules set to take effect from January 1, 2027, impacting property owners across the city. Kajiado Senator Samuel Seki is demanding the inclusion of the Magadi community in discussions regarding new investors for the Magadi soda ash mining operations, following the exit of Tata Chemicals from the area. Caleb Amisi, Party Leader of the People's Renaissance Movement (PM) Party, has outlined the party's 2027 political agenda, emphasizing a commitment to alliances only with parties sharing its core values.