
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 ReadKenya'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.
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.
Must ReadAn Infotrak survey released on Monday, July 13, indicates President William Ruto leads the 2027 presidential race with 32% support. Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka is second with 13%, followed by former Nairobi senator Edwin Sifuna and former Interior Cabinet secretary Fred Matiang'i, both at 12%. Other contenders include former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua at 4%, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino at 3%, and former chief justice David Maraga at 2%. Ruto's support is strongest in the North Rift 89%, Mt. Kenya North 54%, and South Rift 46%. Kalonzo Musyoka has significant backing in Lower Eastern 66%. Gachagua leads in Mt Kenya East 68% and Mt Kenya West 62%, while Matiang'i's strongest showing is in South Nyanza 41%. The survey, conducted between June 22 and 26, 2026, interviewed 3,000 adults, with 18% of respondents remaining undecided. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 1.79 percentage points at a 95% confidence level.

Kenya has been ranked 19th globally in the 2025 EF English Proficiency Index, achieving a score of 593 and placing it in the 'high proficiency' category. This position makes Kenya one of the strongest English-speaking nations in Africa and the highest-ranked in East Africa. The index, published by international education company EF, measures adult English ability in non-native speaking countries. Among African nations, only South Africa and Zimbabwe, both at 13th place with scores of 602, reached the 'very high proficiency' category. Kenya surpassed other African countries like Zambia 27th and Nigeria 29th. In East Africa, Uganda was 53rd 'moderate proficiency', Ethiopia 65th, and Tanzania 77th 'low proficiency'. Globally, the Netherlands led the index, followed by Croatia and Austria. The report attributes Kenya's strong performance to its long-standing English-medium education system, which provides a competitive advantage in regional business, technology, and international diplomacy.

Bishop Hieronymus Emusugut Joya of the Catholic Diocese of Maralal has suspended six priests due to alleged abuse of ecclesiastical authority, negligence in administration, and mismanagement of church temporal goods. The suspended priests are Rev. Fr. Paul Maina, Rev. Fr. Peter Musau, Rev. Fr. Stephen Lekasuyan, Rev. Fr. Peter Nderitu, Rev. Fr. Christopher Letikirich, and Rev. Fr. John Dida. Bishop Joya stated that these actions were taken after receiving credible evidence and in accordance with the Code of Canon Law. He also introduced new directives for all priests, prohibiting them from drinking in bars, cohabiting, owning private businesses unrelated to the Church, and staying out overnight without permission. Additionally, priests are forbidden from presiding over liturgical celebrations while under the influence of alcohol. The bishop also announced five new priestly appointments to strengthen pastoral leadership within the diocese and urged the faithful to pray for the suspended priests.

Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has defended the construction of a tarmac road leading to his rural home, stating that President William Ruto encouraged him to use "common sense." Speaking at St Augustine Ong'ayo Catholic Church in Suba South, Homa Bay, Mbadi argued it would be unreasonable for a serving Cabinet Secretary to have a dusty road to his residence. He noted the road reached his doorstep within one and a half years of his appointment. Mbadi also criticized opposition figures, including Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Siaya governor James Orengo, for not ensuring similar infrastructure development in their home areas despite their long political careers. Furthermore, Mbadi used the event to announce his intention to run for president in 2032, after President William Ruto's constitutional two terms.
Must ReadThe National Police Service confirmed one fatality and several injuries following separate outbreaks of violence in Kisumu City and Nyahururu Town on Sunday, July 12, 2026. In Kisumu, chaos near St. Stephen's ACK Cathedral resulted in one death and multiple injuries, with nine motorcycles torched and a police vehicle damaged. Eight suspects were arrested. The National Police Service condemned these acts of political intolerance. In Nyahururu, a political rally was disrupted by stone-throwing, leading to six arrests. A man identified as Joseph Gitau sustained a chest injury, was treated, and discharged. Murang'a governor Irungu Kang'ata claimed his driver was shot in the chest by police, but the National Police Service directly disputed these claims, stating no firearm was discharged by officers in Nyahururu. The incidents are part of a broader pattern of violence targeting opposition-linked political gatherings.
Must ReadNational Economic Development Party NEDP leader Mike Sonko has donated KSh 1 million to Kenya’s Junior Starlets following their qualification for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. Sonko praised the team for their achievement, stating the donation is intended to motivate the young footballers as they prepare to represent the country in Morocco. Kenya secured their spot in the global tournament by defeating South Africa 3-1 in the final qualification round, achieving a 5-1 aggregate victory. This marks Kenya’s second consecutive qualification for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, with the Junior Starlets, coached by Mildred Cheche, aiming to build on their experience from the 2024 tournament.
Must ReadA Grade 10 student at Thika High School in Kiambu county, Mohamed Hare, died following a physical altercation with a fellow student. According to Principal Julius Muraya, the confrontation occurred around 10 PM during a prayer session when the two students disagreed over who would lead the prayers. Mohamed Hare was treated at the school dispensary before being rushed to Thika Level 5 Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. A fellow student has been arrested and is being held at Thika Police Station as investigations continue. Mohamed Hare's family, through spokesperson Mohamed Aden, expressed concerns about the school's communication, stating they were not directly notified of the death and learned of it from a police commander. Thika Police Commander John Kimanthi confirmed a murder investigation is underway. The family is seeking justice and has raised questions about student safety in schools.

Four people were killed in a bandit attack in Samburu West on July 10, one day after Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen visited the region to address insecurity. One of the deceased was a bandit killed during a subsequent gun battle in Nolkera. Residents expressed their frustration over the persistent insecurity, with one victim, Edward Losenge, stating that his son was killed and that three other boys were killed the previous day. Another resident, Christopher Lekailepi, questioned the government's commitment to ending banditry. On July 9, CS Murkomen had held a consultative meeting and a public baraza where he pledged to increase security personnel, equipment, and infrastructure, reorganize the National Police Reservists, intensify disarmament campaigns, and take firm action against perpetrators. He also announced plans to recover stolen livestock and improve regional connectivity through new security roads and expanded mobile network coverage. The bodies of the deceased were moved to Samburu Referral Hospital for postmortem and burial. Banditry remains a significant concern in parts of Samburu, Baringo, and the wider Rift Valley.
Must ReadA Nairobi High Court has convicted former Kenya Defence Forces Major Peter Mugure Mwaura for the murders of his wife, Joyce Syombua, and their two children, Shanice Maua and Prince Michael. Justice Martin Muya ruled that the prosecution proved all three counts of murder beyond a reasonable doubt. The court found that Mugure lured his family to the Nanyuki Airbase, killed them, and then enlisted a fellow soldier, Collins Pamba, to help bury the bodies in a shallow grave at Thigithu. Evidence presented included DNA analysis, phone records, autopsy findings, and witness testimony. The court determined that Mugure had scouted the burial site three days before the killings, demonstrating advance planning. Autopsy results showed Joyce died from severe blunt force trauma, while the children were strangled. Pamba, who entered a plea bargain, testified that he found Joyce's body in a transparent bag and the children in a bathtub before they loaded the bodies into Mugure's car and buried them. This ruling concludes a nearly seven-year legal process concerning the killings.
Must ReadKenyan newspapers on Saturday, July 11, focused on political developments leading up to the 2027 general elections, highlighting allegations of selective enforcement by the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission IEBC, renewed scrutiny of the electoral body, and emerging divisions within the opposition. The Saturday Standard reported that Kipipiri MP Wanjiku Muhia was fined KSh 1.5 million by the IEBC for violating the Electoral Code of Conduct during the Ol Kalou by-election campaigns, with further breaches potentially leading to her disqualification from future elections. The IEBC also summoned Nakuru Town East MP David Gikaria for similar allegations. The Saturday Nation detailed growing cracks within the opposition, despite leaders presenting a united front. Disclosures suggest the alliance faces mistrust, competing ambitions, and disagreements over selecting a single presidential candidate. Democratic Party leader Justin Muturi's declaration to support Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka if he doesn't secure the coalition's presidential ticket reignited debate. Former Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i urged honesty and transparency, warning against internal scheming. Jubilee secretary general Jeremiah Kioni and People's Liberation Party leader Martha Karua emphasized an open and consultative process for choosing the presidential flagbearer. The Star reported that Nairobi senator Edwin Sifuna launched a legal challenge against his removal as ODM secretary general
Must ReadPeople's Liberation Party PLP leader Martha Karua reported that her vehicle was damaged during an alleged attack at Gatoto Primary School in Mukuru Kwa Reuben, Nairobi, on July 10. Karua was at the school to oversee the implementation of a High Court order concerning the institution's Board of Directors. Her team claims that police failed to provide court-ordered security for the exercise. According to a press release from Karua's office, a group became violent, pelting stones at the board members' vehicle after the school gates were found locked despite court directives. An assailant reportedly smashed the rear windscreen of Karua's vehicle with a rungu as it departed. Karua condemned the incident as an "assault on the authority of the judiciary" and called for an immediate investigation into both the attack and the police's alleged failure to implement the High Court's orders. Neither the National Police Service nor the accused individuals had responded to the allegations by the time of publication.

The International Women's Peace Group IWPG has signed a Memorandum of Understanding MoU with the National Cohesion and Integration Commission NCIC to enhance cooperation in peacebuilding, dialogue, and community cohesion across Kenya. This agreement, signed on July 2, follows a series of peacebuilding activities in Nairobi focused on promoting women's leadership in conflict resolution. IWPG also partnered with four Kenyan civil society organizations: the Kenya Alliance for Advancement of Children KAACR, Kangemi-Westlands Uhaki Paralegal Network KWUPANET, Centre for Citizen Empowerment Programme CCEP, and Youth Economic Empowerment Programme YEEP. These partnerships aim to advance peace education, child and youth protection, civic empowerment, and community development. Speakers at the Nairobi conference emphasized the critical role women play in building lasting peace through leadership, mediation, and community engagement. IWPG Chairwoman Nayoung Jeon stated the organization's goal is to create a strong network of women peace leaders in Kenya and implement grassroots peace projects and education for community stability. Timothy Ekesa, chairperson of KAACR and an expert at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights OHCHR, welcomed the collaboration, noting its alignment with global peace efforts.

Kenya's government is advancing the proposed Land Reclamation Bill, 2026, which seeks to establish the country's first comprehensive legal framework for restoring degraded land. Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa was briefed on the bill by the Land Reclamation Committee, led by Irrigation Secretary for Land Reclamation, Climate Resilience and Irrigation Management, Tanui Joel. The legislation aims to prevent further land degradation, support Kenya's goal of achieving land degradation neutrality, and promote sustainable land use. Additionally, the bill is designed to enhance food and water security, strengthen climate resilience, promote environmental sustainability, and establish the necessary institutional, regulatory, and financing mechanisms for land reclamation initiatives. If enacted, the bill is expected to play a key role in restoring ecosystems, improving food and water security, enhancing climate resilience, encouraging sustainable land management practices, and attracting investment into land reclamation projects across Kenya.

The Amsons Foundation has introduced a KSh 4.5 billion maternal and child health program in Kenya, named Mama na Mtoto Kwanza. This initiative aims to enhance access to essential healthcare services for mothers and children across the country, particularly in underserved communities. The program will focus on developing healthcare infrastructure and strengthening service delivery, with the goal of reducing the distances expectant mothers and young children travel for medical attention. The investment will prioritize maternal and newborn healthcare, working with public institutions, healthcare professionals, and local communities to build sustainable health solutions and provide better-equipped facilities for healthcare workers. In addition to direct healthcare delivery, the program is expected to create employment through construction works and the procurement of goods and services from local suppliers. The Amsons Foundation stated that the program will be implemented in collaboration with government agencies and other stakeholders to ensure lasting community benefits, with success measured by improved health outcomes and wider access to services. The Foundation emphasized that improving maternal and child health is crucial for sustainable development, as healthy mothers contribute to stable families and healthy children are vital for the country's future social and economic growth. This initiative aligns with Kenya's ongoing efforts to strengthen maternal and newborn healthc

An Eldoret woman, Sharon Chebet, has successfully grown her coffin business with the help of the NYOTA Fund. She shared her story during the launch of the program's second phase at Eldoret Sports Club, an event presided over by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen. Chebet, who previously worked as a coffin broker, used her initial NYOTA disbursement of KSh 22,000 to purchase coffins and officially establish her own shop. She revealed that the business has enabled her to overcome an abusive marriage, return to school, and financially support her mother. Chebet expects the second tranche of the NYOTA funds to further boost her business, despite the social stigma often associated with the coffin trade. Interior CS Murkomen praised her determination, highlighting the NYOTA program's role in creating opportunities and sustainable livelihoods for young Kenyans, and affirmed the government's commitment to ensuring youth access to economic programs.
Must ReadKenyatta National Hospital KNH has announced that a team of Kenyan specialists successfully performed Kenya's first Minimally Invasive Esophagectomy MIE on June 30, 2026. The 7-hour keyhole procedure involved removing the esophagus of 43-year-old Joshua Wanzala and reshaping his stomach into a new food pipe. KNH reported that Wanzala is recovering well and has progressed to soft foods and fluids. The hospital highlighted this achievement as a significant milestone in the country's surgical capability, reinforcing its standing as a premier national teaching and referral hospital. The lead consultant cardiothoracic and vascular surgeons were Dr. Joseph Mutie and Dr. Obed Makori, supported by a multidisciplinary team. The successful operation has been widely praised online, with many Kenyans stating it demonstrates that advanced cancer treatment is now available locally, reducing the need for patients to travel abroad.
Must ReadKenyan newspapers on Thursday, July 9, covered several significant stories, including the ongoing investigation into a police officer linked to the alleged attempted murder of a woman in Kasarani. Nicole Omondi, 25, is recovering at Kenyatta National Hospital after reportedly being pushed from the sixth floor of a Nairobi apartment. The former Officer Commanding Station, Agnes Ndanu, has not been arrested, with Kasarani detectives stating that the Independent Policing Oversight Authority IPOA is mandated to investigate serving police officers. Nicole alleges the incident stemmed from a confrontation with Ndanu, who she claims assaulted her before pushing her from a balcony. Nicole sustained severe spinal and limb injuries. Separately, allegations of unlawful detention and torture have emerged against former Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority Director-General Daniel Kiptoo. Four employees of Tarita Group Ltd claim they were coerced into surrendering millions of shillings and valuable property during a meeting in Eldoret, where a KSh 96 million discrepancy was allegedly discovered. The employees claim they were threatened, beaten, and forced to sign documents transferring assets. Police rescued the group and arrested six suspects, with investigations ongoing. In politics, the opposition is intensifying efforts to finalize a coalition agreement and a framework for selecting its presidential flagbearer for the 2027 General Election. Technical teams are drafting a roadmap f
Must ReadEight foreign nationals, including five US citizens, two Canadians, and one British national, were rescued from the Ehsan Rehabilitation Centre in Kajiado during a multi-agency raid led by the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse NACADA. The facility, which had been operating for six months without a license, was found to be unlawfully detaining patients and failing to meet basic standards of care. NACADA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Anthony Omerikwa stated that involuntary detention is unacceptable and contrary to ethical treatment principles. Investigations revealed patients were overstaying without clinical justification, treatment reviews, or discharge planning, indicating significant deficiencies in case management and a lack of structured rehabilitation programs. The multi-agency team, which included the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council, County Public Health services, the National Police Service, and officials from the American Embassy in Nairobi, has recommended the immediate closure of the Ehsan Rehabilitation Centre. NACADA warned that any facility violating patient rights will face firm regulatory and legal action, emphasizing that recovery must occur in an environment of trust, care, and respect for human rights.
Must ReadThe Directorate of Criminal Investigations DCI has launched an investigation into a suspected KSh 6.2 billion government payroll fraud. This follows the submission of a special audit report by Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku to DCI Director Mohamed Amin in Nairobi. The audit, ordered by President William Ruto, uncovered widespread irregularities in the public service payroll, including manipulation, questionable employee records, and significant cybersecurity weaknesses. The DCI has formed a specialized investigations team and identified persons of interest. They will collaborate with agencies such as the Kenya Revenue Authority KRA, the Financial Reporting Centre FRC, and the Public Service Commission PSC to establish criminal responsibility and recover stolen funds. The audit, which examined 12 out of 53 state departments, revealed issues like missing surnames, invalid KRA PINs, duplicate national identity numbers, and multiple employees sharing bank accounts. It also found 5,778 employees with deployment dates earlier than their recruitment dates and three employees hired in 2023 with birth years ranging between 2046 and 2049. Irregular payroll payments amounted to KSh 5.898 billion. Furthermore, 720 payroll editors altered over 4.7 million payroll records without system-generated timestamps, and 77 officers edited their own records. Cybersecurity gaps, including the absence of multi-factor authentication and inadequate database logging, were also identified

National Liberal Party Leader and Anzauni Clan Leader Augustus Kyalo Muli attended the 7.7 Celebrations, an annual cultural festival hosted by the Busiya Kingdom in Shinyanga, Tanzania. Dr. Muli emphasized the importance of African communities leveraging their shared cultural heritage to foster unity, peace, and regional integration, highlighting the indispensable role of traditional institutions in social cohesion. He urged traditional leaders across the continent to champion cultural diplomacy, peace, and cross-border cooperation. The event, organized by the Sukuma people, brought together traditional leaders and delegates from Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa, and the Zulu Kingdom. Dr. Muli, who attended at the invitation of Chief Makwaia III, the 23rd monarch of the Busiya Kingdom, stressed that African nations share deep historical and cultural bonds that should be used to build stronger cross-border cooperation and safeguard indigenous traditions. On the sidelines, Muli held discussions with Chief Makwaia III to expand cooperation between the Anzauni Clan and the Busiya Kingdom in areas such as cultural exchange, education, tourism, and community development. The Kenyan delegation received an invitation for Sukuma elders to visit Kenya in 2027 to deepen cultural ties between the two communities. The next 7.7 Celebrations are scheduled for July 4-7, 2027, in Shinyanga.