February 9 - February 15, 2026
Top Kenya news stories for the week of Monday, February 9 to Sunday, February 15, 2026, organized by weekday.
Monday
February 9
President Ruto Outlines Foreign Policy and Secures International Cooperation Deal with Italy - February 2026
President William Ruto launched Kenya’s 2026 Diplomatic Brief during his annual address to heads of diplomatic missions at State House, Nairobi. In the brief, he reiterated Kenya's unwavering commitment to a rules-based global order and multilateralism. The diplomatic objectives emphasize regional integration, economic diplomacy, and global partnerships. As part of these efforts, Kenya and Italy signed a cooperation deal to upgrade up to 70 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions with state-of-the-art equipment. Additionally, President Ruto is championing reforms within the African Union Commission to enhance budget accountability and oversight.
Governors to Boycott Senate as Gachagua Accuses Police of Political Interference - February 2026
Kenyan Governors have resolved to boycott summons from the Senate County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC), citing intimidation and humiliation during oversight sessions. In response, Senate Public Accounts Committee Chairperson Moses Kajwang condemned the boycott as an attempt by governors to evade scrutiny over alleged mismanagement of public funds. Separately, former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja of political interference. Gachagua claims police in Nakuru County blocked his entourage on Sunday, February 8, 2026, and also publicly accused Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika’s husband of misusing police to block his political meetings.
Government Establishes New Police Unit Amid Security Operations in Baringo and Kerio Valley - February 2026
The Kenyan government has officially established the National Government Administration Police Unit (NGAPU), a new specialized unit within the National Police Service. Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja gazetted the unit to support chiefs and assistant chiefs in their duties and enforce government policies. This development comes as National and Internal Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen applauded the success of ongoing security operations in parts of Turkana, Laikipia, and the wider Kerio Valley, stating they are yielding positive results. However, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has condemned the alleged shooting of livestock and use of extra-judicial measures by multi-agency security officers during a disarmament operation in Baringo County.
More from Monday:
Tuesday
February 10
Governors Threaten to Boycott Senate Committees Over Extortion Claims - February 2026
The Council of Governors (CoG) has suspended appearances before the Senate County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC), accusing unnamed members of extortion and using sittings for political witch hunts. The CoG directed governors to suspend appearances before CPAC and limit them before the County Public Investments and Special Funds Committee. Four Senators from the PAC, led by Chair Moses Kajwang, were specifically accused of intimidation and harassment. In response, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi rejected the extortion claims and defended the Senate's constitutional oversight role. CPAC Chairperson Moses Kajwang also fired back at the boycott threat, stating governors cannot dictate the terms of their accountability for public funds.
KeNHA Gives Traders 7-Day Eviction Notice on Thika Superhighway; Govt Clears Contractor Bills - February 2026
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued a seven-day eviction notice to all roadside traders along sections of the Thika Superhighway. The directive, announced on February 9, 2026, is to clear the way for the construction of new bus bays at Roysambu and Githurai to improve traffic management and safety. In a separate action related to national roads, the Kenyan government has finalized the payment of verified road construction pending bills up to December 2025. President William Ruto had pledged to address the arrears, and the payments were made possible by the securitization of the Road Maintenance Levy.
Cabinet Approves International Agreements, Education Sector Merger, and Civil Servant Payroll Reforms - February 2026
The Kenyan Cabinet has approved international agreements allowing organizations like the Ford Foundation and the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) to establish offices in Nairobi. The Cabinet also approved a major restructuring of the education sector, which includes merging the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), the Universities Fund, the TVET Funding Board, and the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) into a single authority. Additionally, comprehensive payroll reforms for civil servants were approved following a special audit of the 2024–2025 financial year. The audit revealed integrity issues and governance failures within the Government Human Resource Information System-Kenya (HRIS-K), and the overhaul aims to ensure uniform application of statutory deductions.
More from Tuesday:
Wednesday
February 11
EACC Takes Action on Officials as Report Ranks Kenya's Corruption Fight Poorly - February 2026
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) arrested a Kisumu County Revenue Officer who was charged over bribery allegations on February 10. The EACC also prompted the Environment and Land Court to issue preservation orders against Mandera Governor Mohamed Adan Khalif's Parklands property in Nairobi amid an ongoing probe. In a related development, the Council of Governors (CoG) formally accused four senators of harassing and extorting governors during Senate County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC) hearings. These events occurred as a new report ranked Kenya's fight against corruption among the worst globally, with the country scoring 30 out of 100 in the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), a drop from 32 points the previous year.
ODM Ousts Edwin Sifuna as Secretary General, Initiates Azimio Coalition Exit - February 2026
The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) has removed Edwin Sifuna from his position as Secretary General, a decision made by the party's National Executive Committee (NEC) on February 11. The NEC cited concerns over discipline and leadership conduct for his ouster. Busia Woman Representative, Catherine Omanyo, has been appointed as the Acting Secretary General to replace Sifuna. In the same NEC meeting, the party resolved to begin the formal process of withdrawing from the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition. The party cited breaches of the coalition's deed of agreement by partner parties as the reason for initiating its exit.
Governor Sakaja Denies Ceding Nairobi Functions Amidst Agreement with National Government - February 2026
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has refuted claims that Nairobi County will cede functions to the national government, specifically denying the return of the Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS). Sakaja dismissed a Citizen TV report alleging the transfer of functions like garbage collection and road construction to President William Ruto's administration as "fake news." This follows a political agreement between Sakaja and President Ruto for the national government to manage key services like garbage collection and water supply to improve service delivery. In relation to these developments, City Hall Way was partially closed for the Governor's State of the County Address, the first major public gathering since the new agreement was made.
More from Wednesday:
Thursday
February 12
ODM Ousts Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna and Begins Azimio Coalition Exit - February 2026
A significant power struggle has erupted within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) after its National Executive Committee (NEC) removed Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as Secretary-General. Sifuna has rejected his removal as "illegal and unprocedural" and vowed a court battle. Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo has been appointed as the Acting Secretary General. Following the shake-up, ODM has formally initiated its withdrawal from the Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition, citing breaches of the coalition's agreement. Acting Party Leader Oburu Oginga is set to hold consultative forums on potential pre-election talks with the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA). In a significant reversal, Oburu Odinga announced that the party will actively pursue the Deputy President slot during these upcoming coalition negotiations.
Governors Clash with Senate Over Harassment Allegations; IG Threatens Arrests - February 2026
The Council of Governors (CoG) has formally accused four senators, including Edwin Sifuna and Moses Kajwang, of harassing and extorting governors during appearances before the Senate County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC). In response, Senator Sifuna threatened legal action against the governors, dismissing the bribery allegations as a coordinated attack. The dispute escalated when Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja declared that police are prepared to arrest any governor who fails to honor a Senate summons. The IG's statement came after the Council of Governors announced they would boycott the CPAC over alleged intimidation by the senators.
Kenyan Sporting Events Underway as Major Stadiums Prepare for Closure - February 2026
A series of sporting events are taking place across Kenya. At Nyayo Stadium, the Kenya Lionesses are preparing for the Nairobi Sevens this weekend. Meanwhile, following the conclusion of the National Novice Boxing Championships, Kenyan counties are now preparing for their individual County Intermediate Championships. The 2026 Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) Term One Games are also set to begin. In Mombasa, the Golf Club is set to host a two-day Captain's Prize tournament expected to draw over 240 players. However, league disruptions are expected as major venues Kasarani and Nyayo stadiums are scheduled for closure and upgrades to prepare for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.
More from Thursday:
Friday
February 13
Government Launches Digital Initiatives for Tax, Broadcasting, and Public Access - February 2026
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has launched the eTIMS Fuel Station System, which requires all petrol stations to issue electronic tax invoices for every transaction to enhance tax compliance. In a separate initiative, the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has activated a 12-month pilot program for Digital Sound Broadcasting (DSB) services in Nairobi, marking Kenya's first live trial of digital radio. To further enhance digital inclusion, ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo announced the government's plan to establish digital hubs in every ward across Kenya. The goal of the digital hubs is to create opportunities, especially for young people.
Police Service to Recruit 50,000 Officers; IG Kanja Orders Key Actions - February 2026
The Kenyan government plans to recruit nearly 50,000 police officers by 2029, as outlined in the 2026/27 Budget Policy Statement, to bolster national security. In current affairs, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has assured the Senate’s County Public Accounts Committee (CPAC) of full police support in enforcing summonses to investigate misappropriated public resources. The IG has also ordered a three-day inquiry into a security breach during President William Ruto's visit to Wajir County on February 12. The inquiry was launched after a man breached the security cordon during the event.
KNEC and TSC Announce Changes to Exams and Take Action on Teacher Conduct - February 2026
The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) will introduce electronic certificates (e-certificates) and an online verification service for national examinations, backdated to 2023. This move aims to modernize examination administration. Additionally, the Ministry of Education has announced the official registration dates and guidelines for the 2026 KPSEA, KJSEA, and KCSE national examinations. In an administrative action, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba directed the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) to take action against 24 teachers and education officials. The directive follows the discovery of irregularities during a nationwide school data verification exercise.
More from Friday:
Saturday
February 14
KNEC Releases 2025 KCSE Slips, Announces E-Certificates, and Explains Payment Delays - February 2026
The government announced that the 2025 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination result slips are now ready for collection at candidates' respective schools. The Ministry of Education also revealed that the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) will introduce electronic certificates (e-certificates) and an online verification service. This initiative is being backdated to 2023 to modernize examination administration and enhance credential authenticity. Concurrently, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba addressed delayed payments for professionals who administered and marked the 2025 national examinations. The Ministry attributed the delay impacting supervisors, invigilators, and examiners to budgetary and cash flow constraints.
Government Announces Changes to Electricity Billing, Highway Works, and Grid Connectivity - February 2026
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) gazetted significant changes to electricity billing in Kenya, which were announced on Friday, February 13. These adjustments concern the fuel energy cost charges, foreign exchange fluctuation adjustment, and the WRMA levy. Separately, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) announced temporary lane closures on the A8 Road between Rironi and James Gichuru Road Junction from February 20 to April 4, 2026, for surface dressing works. Meanwhile, Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wadayi launched Phase Six of the last mile electricity connectivity project in Kisii County to connect homes in areas lacking access to the national grid.
President Ruto Urges Africa to Lead in Green Industrialization and Seize Climate Investments - February 2026
President William Ruto urged African nations to leverage the global shift in climate investments to become a leading hub for green industrialization. During the 39th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, he emphasized that the continent should leverage global economic shifts toward climate-positive growth. President Ruto cited Africa's vast renewable energy resources as ideal for clean energy investments and climate adaptation. He noted the global surge in climate investment is projected to reach $2.3 trillion in 2025. President Ruto urged African States to position the continent as a leader in green industrialization by taking advantage of this investment surge.
More from Saturday:
Sunday
February 15
Opposition Rallies Disrupted by Teargas; Leaders to Confront Police IG - February 2026
A political rally in Kitengela led by ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna was disrupted after police lobbed tear gas canisters into the crowd, causing chaos and sending supporters fleeing. The rally was part of the “Linda Mwananchi” tour, and Sifuna had previously alleged a plot to disrupt the events with planned chaos. This incident follows the dramatic removal of Sifuna as ODM's secretary-general, which has highlighted deep internal party divisions. In response to another incident, the United Opposition, led by DCP Party leader Rigathi Gachagua, announced plans to confront Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja on Monday to demand accountability for a January 25 tear-gas incident at a church in Nyeri County.
President Ruto Advocates for AfCFTA, AU Peace Fund, and Climate Financing - February 2026
At the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, President William Ruto presented a report proposing to scale the African Union Peace Fund. He also stated that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) could boost Africa's GDP by approximately $1.4 trillion by 2045, urging a shift from negotiation to implementation. President Ruto urged African banks to finance the local pharmaceutical industry to bolster Africa’s health security, stating the continent can no longer depend on imported commodities. Additionally, he renewed Kenya’s commitment to the Green Climate Fund (GCF), aiming to boost financing for climate-resilient agriculture and low-carbon development.
Detectives Uncover Ksh16 Million SACCO Fraud; Separate SHA Identity Fraud Investigated - February 2026
Detectives from the Banking Fraud Investigation Unit (BFIU) have uncovered a cheque fraud scheme that led to a Sacco losing over Sh16 million. An accountant suspected of orchestrating the fraud has been arrested by the DCI in connection with the elaborate scam, which involved 58 fraudulent cheques. This follows an earlier apprehension of a businessman linked to the scheme. In a separate case, 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). This deception has led to a fraud investigation, which is stalling the issuance of a correct death certificate.