Kenya's Special Operations Group: an inside look at the elite unit battling Al-Shabaab
via Tuko5 min read
Kenya's Special Operations Group SOG is a highly secretive elite counter-terrorism unit formed from the General Service Unit GSU and Rapid Deployment Unit to combat Al-Shabaab. The selection process is rigorous, with only about 100 out of 2,000 recruits completing the six-month training program. Officials state that the impact of these graduates is comparable to that of 10,000 conventional officers. The SOG employs an intelligence-led approach, working with the National Intelligence Service NIS to conduct raids, disrupt supply lines, and patrol challenging areas like Boni Forest. Recent operations in Garissa, Mandera, and Lamu counties have resulted in the dismantling of IED factories, the neutralization of militants, and the recovery of weapons. Beyond direct combat, the SOG supports community restoration efforts in areas freed from militant influence, helping schools and health facilities reopen and engaging youth to prevent radicalization. The unit also safeguards critical economic infrastructure, including trade corridors linked to the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport LAPSSET corridor. The identities of SOG personnel and details of their operations are kept confidential, contributing to years without major terrorist attacks in Nairobi and other urban centers, according to security analyst Bravin Oduor.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Tuko.
Amref International University AMIU announced plans to establish a Beyond Zero Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital at its Northlands campus. This specialized teaching facility will be developed in partnership with former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta's Beyond Zero Initiative, which has championed maternal and child healthcare since 2014. The announcement was made by Sheila Khama, Chairperson of the International Board of Directors for Amref Health Africa, during AMIU's 7th graduation ceremony. The proposed hospital aims to train healthcare professionals and advance maternal and child health across Africa. The Beyond Zero Initiative, launched in 2014, focuses on reducing maternal and infant mortality rates, tackling mother-to-child HIV and syphilis transmission, and providing healthcare to underserved communities. Its achievements include deploying mobile medical clinics to all 47 counties and organizing the Beyond Zero Half Marathon to raise funds for medical equipment. The new hospital will be located within Northlands City, a mixed-use development associated with the Kenyatta family, positioning it as a potential center for healthcare excellence in East Africa.
Must ReadDefence Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya has called on Kenyans to pray for the nation, stating that her role exposes her to realities not witnessed by most citizens. Speaking at a church service in Narok, Tuya emphasized that Kenya's peace and stability should not be taken for granted, drawing comparisons to politically and economically unstable neighboring countries. She highlighted Kenya's relative peace despite ongoing security challenges, urging the clergy and public to remain steadfast in prayer. Tuya noted that her position provides access to information and situations that ordinary Kenyans do not see, reinforcing her appeal for continued prayers for the country.
Must ReadPolice in Kisumu county arrested two individuals after discovering a large consignment of government relief food at a homestead in Muhoroni sub-county. Officers from Masogo Police Station, acting on intelligence, raided the home of the late Johana Nyasuna, father of Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, on Sunday, July 12, 2026. They found 300 bags of rice, 250 bags of beans, and 20 bags of uji mix, all weighing 50 kilograms each, offloaded and concealed inside a house. The food was intended for distribution to residents in the Chemelil area via the deputy county commissioner's office in Muhoroni sub-county. A Mercedes-Benz trailer, registration number KCG 240F, registered to Pontypridd Holdings, was also found at the scene. The truck driver, Charles Gichoki, and a storekeeper were arrested and are assisting DCI Muhoroni with investigations. The incident, recorded under OB Number 06/12/07/2026, has sparked public outrage over the diversion of relief food.