Former Migori Governor Okoth Obado has admitted in High Court to having had an affair with the late Rongo University student Sharon Otieno, whose 2018 murder case he is currently facing trial for. Obado testified that the relationship was an 'open secret' and that he informed his wife about the affair, apologizing and promising to end it. He stated that his wife was aware of the relationship, had met Sharon Otieno, and even intended to give her a house. Obado denied any involvement in Sharon's murder and said he ended the relationship due to inconsistencies, not because of pregnancy. He revealed he continued to provide financial support to Sharon even after their relationship ended in March 2018. Obado also testified that he had promised to fully support Sharon as she was pregnant with his child and intended to build her a house worth Ksh. 3 million in Homa Bay. The murder case involving Obado, Michael Oyamo, and Casper Obiero has been adjourned until May 19, 2025, following a request from the suspects' lawyers.

Kenyan President William Ruto embarked on a five-day state visit to China, marking his first trip to the country since assuming office. The visit, which began on April 22, 2025, aims to deepen diplomatic and economic ties between Kenya and China. Ruto's agenda includes strengthening trade, investment, and infrastructure cooperation, with a focus on projects like the Kenya Tea Holding Centre in Fujian Province and a keynote address at Peking University. Upon arrival, Ruto was greeted with a 21-gun salute at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, where he was officially welcomed by President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan. Ruto was accompanied by First Lady Rachel Ruto.

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Joel Munuve, the Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Kariobangi North Ward in Nairobi City County, collapsed and died on April 22, 2025, under unclear circumstances. His death has prompted calls for a thorough investigation amid speculation and unresolved questions. Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja extended condolences to Munuve's family and constituents, emphasizing that a full investigation has been requested to determine the cause of death. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has taken over the probe, postponing a scheduled postmortem to allow a specialized unit to lead the inquiry. Fellow politicians and Nairobi MCAs have mourned Munuve as a dependable leader who advocated for his constituents. Some public figures have urged that the investigation be conclusive, while Munuve's family has appealed for an end to circulating rumors. The case remains under investigation as authorities seek to clarify the circumstances surrounding Munuve's sudden death.

Kenya's Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has intensified government efforts to combat human trafficking and corruption during a three-day tour of the Ukambani region, including Kitui County. Murkomen announced the formation of a special task force to tackle human trafficking and emphasized accountability for chiefs and sub-chiefs, particularly in relation to the Rongo sect probe. The government has also cracked down on illegal land grabbing in Kitui and the wider Lower Eastern Region. Murkomen warned security officers involved in corrupt activities that their days are numbered, stating that no level of corruption, whether involving small or large sums, will be tolerated. He highlighted ongoing arrests of governors and senior officials for graft and declared that chiefs and assistant chiefs found culpable will not be retained. Additionally, Murkomen addressed the rise of extremist religious sects, ordering vigilance among local chiefs to prevent incidents causing harm to citizens, with police having recently intervened to stop activities of a church in Migori. The tour included public engagements such as a town hall meeting at Kitui High School and media interactions with local radio stations. Murkomen was accompanied by Kitui County Governor Dr. Julius Malombe and Members of Parliament Nimrod Mbai and Rachael Nyamai during these activities.

Two Belgian teenagers, aged 18 and 19, have been arrested in Kenya for attempting to smuggle 5,000 live Giant African harvester ants, valued at approximately $9,200, destined for markets in Europe and Asia. The ants were kept alive in syringes and test tubes during the smuggling attempt. The teenagers have pleaded guilty and are scheduled to be sentenced in two weeks, with the sentencing date set for early May. Kenyan authorities charged them with violating wildlife conservation laws, describing the case as an example of biopiracy. The incident has brought attention to a growing underground trade in trafficking smaller and lesser-known species, highlighting the lucrative nature of this illegal market. In addition to the Belgian teens, two other men, including a Vietnamese national, were arrested for collecting 400 ants. The case has drawn international media coverage and raised concerns about wildlife trafficking beyond the more commonly targeted larger animals. Separately, reports have also emerged about a black market for human organs in Kenya, with allegations involving Israelis in cash-for-kidneys transplants, underscoring broader issues of illegal trade in the region.

A political dispute has emerged in Kenya over the management of the Roads Maintenance Levy Fund (RMLF) and the broader issue of devolution. Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o has accused President William Ruto’s administration of undermining devolution gains by insisting that the national government is best positioned to manage the RMLF. Nyong’o argues that the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) are unnecessary if devolution is fully implemented, and calls for the transfer of road funds to county governments.

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Kalonzo Musyoka, leader of Kenya's Wiper party, has confirmed his intention to run for president in the 2027 elections. He dismissed critics questioning his capability to contest the presidency. Senator Enoch Wambua has endorsed Kalonzo as the candidate best positioned to challenge and potentially defeat incumbent President William Ruto in the upcoming election. Additionally, Kalonzo stated that the Wiper party will reject the Finance Bill for the current year if it includes provisions for increased taxes.

Finnish President Alexander Stubb and First Lady Suzanne Innes are scheduled to undertake a state visit to Kenya from May 12 to May 14, 2025. This visit marks the first time a Finnish president has officially visited Kenya. Following the Kenya visit, the presidential couple will continue their state visit to Tanzania from May 14 to May 16, 2025. The visits aim to strengthen diplomatic relations between Finland and the East African nations.

The St Joseph Messiah Church in Rongo, Kenya, has been closed following controversy over its practice of detaining patients and burying deceased worshippers within 48 hours without hospital or mortuary involvement. Families of former members have reported difficulties tracing missing relatives and have recounted painful experiences related to the church's secretive operations. Some members had surrendered their property to live within the church compound. A former resident described the church as isolated and recounted that many people died and were buried on-site, bypassing medical facilities. The church has sought court redress, asserting that no crime was committed in detaining patients. The situation has drawn attention to the impact on families, including reports of Indigenous suicides linked to hospital care issues.

The Kenyan government has confirmed that Mathematics will remain a compulsory subject in senior schools under the new Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). This decision follows extensive consultations with stakeholders and the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), who largely supported keeping Mathematics mandatory for all senior school students. The Education Cabinet Secretary, Julius Ogamba, and Basic Education Principal Secretary, Julius Bitok, clarified that the earlier proposal to make Mathematics optional, particularly for arts students, has been dropped. Instead, a simplified version of Mathematics will be offered to arts students. The government has formed a technical committee to refine the curriculum position. Additionally, Grade Nine learners will begin the senior school selection process starting May 26, 2025. The decision aims to resolve confusion surrounding the subject's status under the CBC and reflects stakeholder feedback during national dialogues and symposiums.

Kenya's Ministry of Health and the National Assembly have launched investigations into allegations of illegal organ trafficking at Mediheal Hospital's Eldoret branch. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale indicated that some officials within the Ministry of Health could be complicit in the organ trafficking syndicate. The National Assembly Health Committee initiated an 80-day public inquiry into the hospital's operations following these allegations. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has also taken over the probe. Mediheal Hospital and its founder, Dr. Swarup Mishra, have denied any involvement in illegal organ trade, stating that the hospital has performed 476 kidney transplants since November 2018, including 62 for Israeli patients and 105 foreign nationals with valid medical visas. Mishra refuted claims of having agents who harvested organs from young people and denied any connection to the Shakahola deaths. The hospital's lawyers maintain that all procedures comply with regulatory standards and that no money exchange occurred related to the transplants. In response to the scandal, Health CS Aden Duale ordered the Clinical Officers Council to re-inspect all health facilities to ensure compliance and to collaborate with the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council in licensing. Additionally, Duale appointed a 13-member Independent Investigative Committee on Tissue and Organ Transplant Services, chaired by Prof. Elizabeth Bukusi, to examine the legal and regulatory frameworks governing organ transplants. The government also established a Benefits Package and Tariffs Panel under 2024 insurance rules, chaired by Prof. Walter Jaoko, to advance health sector reforms aligned with Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The Social Health Authority (SHA) will now directly pay public hospitals to reduce delays in funding. The investigations and regulatory reforms come amid ongoing efforts to strengthen oversight and ensure ethical medical practices in Kenya's health sector.

Following the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, Kenya's National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and several Catholic members of parliament visited the Apostolic Nunciature in Nairobi to pay tribute. They honored Pope Francis for his unwavering commitment to humanity and reflected on his transformative impact, including his historic visit to Kenya, which was captured in a photograph with the country's 2nd, 3rd, and 4th presidents. The delegation expressed condolences and solidarity with the Catholic community during this time of mourning.

Kenya's Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Council of Governors and all 47 county governments, is advancing the implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) through the rollout of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and the nationwide digital health initiative, Taifa Care. The SHA will directly pay public hospitals, bypassing county treasuries to reduce payment delays previously experienced under the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF). The government aims to enroll 22 million Kenyans into SHA. The digital health initiative will digitize all public health facilities and equip over 74,000 healthcare workers. Consultative sessions have been held with the National Assembly Committee on Delegated Legislation to review the 2025 Digital Health Regulations and align them with earlier recommendations. County leaders, including governors and members of county assemblies, have engaged with national officials to address emerging health sector challenges and discuss social health insurance programs. Additionally, the Senate Committee on Public Investment and Special Funds has urged the government to expedite settling outstanding payments owed to hospitals. Efforts to improve security and mobile ID registration have also been observed in counties such as Kitui, Makueni, and Machakos during regional town hall meetings and tours.

Nine members of a family, including a man, his wife, and their seven children, were killed in a suspected arson attack in Upanda Village, Ugunja, Siaya County, Kenya. The incident occurred on Tuesday night and is believed to be linked to a long-standing land dispute. Police investigations revealed that the doors of the house were locked from the outside, preventing escape. Following the tragedy, local residents reportedly set fire to four homes belonging to a suspect connected to the attack. Authorities have detained a woman suspected of involvement in the incident, and two boys have been arrested in connection with the deaths of an elderly couple in a separate house fire. The community remains deeply affected by the loss and the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Kenya's prison and security sector reforms have come under scrutiny as lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction with the slow pace of changes, highlighting issues such as poor conditions for officers, underutilized prison land, overcrowding, and a rise in prison-related scams. The Commissioner General of the Kenya Prisons Service, Patrick Aranduh, appeared before the Constitutional Implementation Oversight Committee (CIOC) to address these concerns. The CIOC Chair, Eric Karemba, sought clarification on the legal framework governing inmate labor. Meanwhile, Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo affirmed that reforms in the National Police Service (NPS), Kenya Prisons, and the National Youth Service (NYS) are progressing as recommended by Chief Justice Maraga. However, the High Court recently declared the police reforms taskforce led by Maraga unconstitutional. In response, Dr. Omollo announced the government's intention to appeal the ruling, emphasizing that not all recommendations from the taskforce were invalidated.

Kenyan President William Ruto delivered a public lecture at Peking University in Beijing, where he emphasized the urgent need to establish a new world order that reflects current global realities. He criticized the governance structures of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, stating that these institutions remain controlled by wealthy countries and no longer effectively serve developing nations. Ruto called for reforms to transform these organizations into independent and apolitical entities, insulated from the national interests of their shareholders. He also expressed support for the One-China policy, a two-state solution in the Middle East, and dialogue over escalation in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Addressing global trade issues, Ruto warned against the actions of what he described as 'Cold War warriors' and condemned unilateral US tariffs, suggesting they deliver a 'death blow' to global commerce. Furthermore, he positioned Kenya as a potential bridge between East and West amid rising geopolitical tensions and highlighted the country's commitment to non-alignment, peaceful conflict resolution, sovereignty, and mutual respect. Deputy Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi also indicated that Kenya is seeking China's assistance for major development projects.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has addressed ongoing challenges in the city, including poor road conditions, solid waste management, and drainage issues exacerbated by unprecedented rainfall. Sakaja acknowledged that Nairobi's drainage infrastructure was designed for smaller seasonal rains and pledged improvements once the current rainy season subsides in mid-June. He highlighted efforts to digitize revenue streams through a no-cash policy and emphasized progress in healthcare, including the opening of eight new theatres at Mama Lucy Hospital and the establishment of intensive care units (ICUs). Meanwhile, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has committed to enhancing government service delivery by fast-tracking the issuance of Good Conduct certificates and decentralizing passport processing to Huduma Centres. Ruku also led a multi-agency initiative to address flooding and landslides in Nairobi, visiting affected families in the Drive-In settlement of Utalii Ward, Ruaraka Constituency. He directed the formation of a team involving national and county governments to implement urgent mitigation measures and long-term solutions. Ruku was accompanied by Principal Secretary for Special Programmes Ismail Maalim and Ruaraka MP Tom Kajwang during the visit. Lawmakers have expressed concern over slow reforms in public service, citing poor conditions for officers, underutilized land, and an increase in prison-run scams.

The Advocates Disciplinary Tribunal (ADT) has found lawyer Nelson Havi guilty of professional misconduct, citing his use of defamatory, vulgar, and abusive language against former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president Allen Gichuhi. The tribunal stated that Havi's conduct embarrassed the legal profession. Havi has challenged the verdict, questioning the tribunal's jurisdiction over defamation claims and asserting that the decision is unlawful and unconstitutional. The case follows other disciplinary actions within the legal community, including charges against other advocates and debates over freedom of speech and professional conduct under Kenya's Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act No. 5 of 2018.

Kenyan lawmakers and analysts have expressed divergent views on the country's borrowing practices amid concerns over the national debt. Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has urged President William Ruto to halt the borrowing spree, arguing that loans hurt the economy and that Kenya should leverage existing assets such as the State's stake in Safaricom to fund development. Nyoro emphasized that Kenya has sufficient resources to support growth without further borrowing. Conversely, Senate Majority Leader Samson Cherargei defended the borrowing, noting that the current debt of Ksh. 11 trillion was largely accumulated before President Ruto's tenure and that borrowing remains necessary to sustain the budget due to a fiscal deficit. Other voices, including analyst Joshua Nyamori, acknowledged the debt burden but commended President Ruto's strategic engagement with China and focus on Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as advantageous. Additionally, Dr. Fred Muhumuza highlighted concerns about Kenya being in a debt trap, cautioning that borrowing more will not resolve the debt problem. The debate underscores the ongoing fiscal challenges Kenya faces in balancing development needs with debt sustainability.

Heavy rains and flash floods in Nairobi, Kenya, have resulted in the deaths of six people, including a mother and her two children, and displaced hundreds of residents across several informal settlements such as Mathare and Mukuru kwa Reuben. The floods caused a boulder to collapse on a home in the Mathare slums, killing three individuals. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant as rains continue, and the government has initiated multi-agency efforts to address drainage system failures contributing to the flooding. Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Kiringa Ruku visited affected families in the Drive-In settlement, Ruaraka Constituency, and emphasized the government's commitment to support flood victims. Concurrently, in Siaya County, a suspected arson attack linked to a land dispute killed nine members of a single family in Upanda village, Ugunja. Police investigations are ongoing, and the incident has led to community unrest, including the torching of homes belonging to suspects.

Former Migori Governor Okoth Obado has admitted in High Court to having had an affair with the late Rongo University student Sharon Otieno, whose 2018 murder case he is currently facing trial for. Obado testified that the relationship was an 'open secret' and that he informed his wife about the affair, apologizing and promising to end it. He stated that his wife was aware of the relationship, had met Sharon Otieno, and even intended to give her a house. Obado denied any involvement in Sharon's murder and said he ended the relationship due to inconsistencies, not because of pregnancy. He revealed he continued to provide financial support to Sharon even after their relationship ended in March 2018. Obado also testified that he had promised to fully support Sharon as she was pregnant with his child and intended to build her a house worth Ksh. 3 million in Homa Bay. The murder case involving Obado, Michael Oyamo, and Casper Obiero has been adjourned until May 19, 2025, following a request from the suspects' lawyers.

Kenyan President William Ruto embarked on a five-day state visit to China, marking his first trip to the country since assuming office. The visit, which began on April 22, 2025, aims to deepen diplomatic and economic ties between Kenya and China. Ruto's agenda includes strengthening trade, investment, and infrastructure cooperation, with a focus on projects like the Kenya Tea Holding Centre in Fujian Province and a keynote address at Peking University. Upon arrival, Ruto was greeted with a 21-gun salute at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, where he was officially welcomed by President Xi Jinping and his wife, Peng Liyuan. Ruto was accompanied by First Lady Rachel Ruto.

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Joel Munuve, the Member of County Assembly (MCA) for Kariobangi North Ward in Nairobi City County, collapsed and died on April 22, 2025, under unclear circumstances. His death has prompted calls for a thorough investigation amid speculation and unresolved questions. Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja extended condolences to Munuve's family and constituents, emphasizing that a full investigation has been requested to determine the cause of death. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has taken over the probe, postponing a scheduled postmortem to allow a specialized unit to lead the inquiry. Fellow politicians and Nairobi MCAs have mourned Munuve as a dependable leader who advocated for his constituents. Some public figures have urged that the investigation be conclusive, while Munuve's family has appealed for an end to circulating rumors. The case remains under investigation as authorities seek to clarify the circumstances surrounding Munuve's sudden death.

Kenya's Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has intensified government efforts to combat human trafficking and corruption during a three-day tour of the Ukambani region, including Kitui County. Murkomen announced the formation of a special task force to tackle human trafficking and emphasized accountability for chiefs and sub-chiefs, particularly in relation to the Rongo sect probe. The government has also cracked down on illegal land grabbing in Kitui and the wider Lower Eastern Region. Murkomen warned security officers involved in corrupt activities that their days are numbered, stating that no level of corruption, whether involving small or large sums, will be tolerated. He highlighted ongoing arrests of governors and senior officials for graft and declared that chiefs and assistant chiefs found culpable will not be retained. Additionally, Murkomen addressed the rise of extremist religious sects, ordering vigilance among local chiefs to prevent incidents causing harm to citizens, with police having recently intervened to stop activities of a church in Migori. The tour included public engagements such as a town hall meeting at Kitui High School and media interactions with local radio stations. Murkomen was accompanied by Kitui County Governor Dr. Julius Malombe and Members of Parliament Nimrod Mbai and Rachael Nyamai during these activities.

Two Belgian teenagers, aged 18 and 19, have been arrested in Kenya for attempting to smuggle 5,000 live Giant African harvester ants, valued at approximately $9,200, destined for markets in Europe and Asia. The ants were kept alive in syringes and test tubes during the smuggling attempt. The teenagers have pleaded guilty and are scheduled to be sentenced in two weeks, with the sentencing date set for early May. Kenyan authorities charged them with violating wildlife conservation laws, describing the case as an example of biopiracy. The incident has brought attention to a growing underground trade in trafficking smaller and lesser-known species, highlighting the lucrative nature of this illegal market. In addition to the Belgian teens, two other men, including a Vietnamese national, were arrested for collecting 400 ants. The case has drawn international media coverage and raised concerns about wildlife trafficking beyond the more commonly targeted larger animals. Separately, reports have also emerged about a black market for human organs in Kenya, with allegations involving Israelis in cash-for-kidneys transplants, underscoring broader issues of illegal trade in the region.

A political dispute has emerged in Kenya over the management of the Roads Maintenance Levy Fund (RMLF) and the broader issue of devolution. Kisumu Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o has accused President William Ruto’s administration of undermining devolution gains by insisting that the national government is best positioned to manage the RMLF. Nyong’o argues that the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) are unnecessary if devolution is fully implemented, and calls for the transfer of road funds to county governments.

Read more

Kalonzo Musyoka, leader of Kenya's Wiper party, has confirmed his intention to run for president in the 2027 elections. He dismissed critics questioning his capability to contest the presidency. Senator Enoch Wambua has endorsed Kalonzo as the candidate best positioned to challenge and potentially defeat incumbent President William Ruto in the upcoming election. Additionally, Kalonzo stated that the Wiper party will reject the Finance Bill for the current year if it includes provisions for increased taxes.

Finnish President Alexander Stubb and First Lady Suzanne Innes are scheduled to undertake a state visit to Kenya from May 12 to May 14, 2025. This visit marks the first time a Finnish president has officially visited Kenya. Following the Kenya visit, the presidential couple will continue their state visit to Tanzania from May 14 to May 16, 2025. The visits aim to strengthen diplomatic relations between Finland and the East African nations.

The St Joseph Messiah Church in Rongo, Kenya, has been closed following controversy over its practice of detaining patients and burying deceased worshippers within 48 hours without hospital or mortuary involvement. Families of former members have reported difficulties tracing missing relatives and have recounted painful experiences related to the church's secretive operations. Some members had surrendered their property to live within the church compound. A former resident described the church as isolated and recounted that many people died and were buried on-site, bypassing medical facilities. The church has sought court redress, asserting that no crime was committed in detaining patients. The situation has drawn attention to the impact on families, including reports of Indigenous suicides linked to hospital care issues.

The Kenyan government has confirmed that Mathematics will remain a compulsory subject in senior schools under the new Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). This decision follows extensive consultations with stakeholders and the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD), who largely supported keeping Mathematics mandatory for all senior school students. The Education Cabinet Secretary, Julius Ogamba, and Basic Education Principal Secretary, Julius Bitok, clarified that the earlier proposal to make Mathematics optional, particularly for arts students, has been dropped. Instead, a simplified version of Mathematics will be offered to arts students. The government has formed a technical committee to refine the curriculum position. Additionally, Grade Nine learners will begin the senior school selection process starting May 26, 2025. The decision aims to resolve confusion surrounding the subject's status under the CBC and reflects stakeholder feedback during national dialogues and symposiums.

Kenya's Ministry of Health and the National Assembly have launched investigations into allegations of illegal organ trafficking at Mediheal Hospital's Eldoret branch. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale indicated that some officials within the Ministry of Health could be complicit in the organ trafficking syndicate. The National Assembly Health Committee initiated an 80-day public inquiry into the hospital's operations following these allegations. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has also taken over the probe. Mediheal Hospital and its founder, Dr. Swarup Mishra, have denied any involvement in illegal organ trade, stating that the hospital has performed 476 kidney transplants since November 2018, including 62 for Israeli patients and 105 foreign nationals with valid medical visas. Mishra refuted claims of having agents who harvested organs from young people and denied any connection to the Shakahola deaths. The hospital's lawyers maintain that all procedures comply with regulatory standards and that no money exchange occurred related to the transplants. In response to the scandal, Health CS Aden Duale ordered the Clinical Officers Council to re-inspect all health facilities to ensure compliance and to collaborate with the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council in licensing. Additionally, Duale appointed a 13-member Independent Investigative Committee on Tissue and Organ Transplant Services, chaired by Prof. Elizabeth Bukusi, to examine the legal and regulatory frameworks governing organ transplants. The government also established a Benefits Package and Tariffs Panel under 2024 insurance rules, chaired by Prof. Walter Jaoko, to advance health sector reforms aligned with Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The Social Health Authority (SHA) will now directly pay public hospitals to reduce delays in funding. The investigations and regulatory reforms come amid ongoing efforts to strengthen oversight and ensure ethical medical practices in Kenya's health sector.

Following the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, Kenya's National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, and several Catholic members of parliament visited the Apostolic Nunciature in Nairobi to pay tribute. They honored Pope Francis for his unwavering commitment to humanity and reflected on his transformative impact, including his historic visit to Kenya, which was captured in a photograph with the country's 2nd, 3rd, and 4th presidents. The delegation expressed condolences and solidarity with the Catholic community during this time of mourning.

Kenya's Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Council of Governors and all 47 county governments, is advancing the implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) through the rollout of the Social Health Authority (SHA) and the nationwide digital health initiative, Taifa Care. The SHA will directly pay public hospitals, bypassing county treasuries to reduce payment delays previously experienced under the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF). The government aims to enroll 22 million Kenyans into SHA. The digital health initiative will digitize all public health facilities and equip over 74,000 healthcare workers. Consultative sessions have been held with the National Assembly Committee on Delegated Legislation to review the 2025 Digital Health Regulations and align them with earlier recommendations. County leaders, including governors and members of county assemblies, have engaged with national officials to address emerging health sector challenges and discuss social health insurance programs. Additionally, the Senate Committee on Public Investment and Special Funds has urged the government to expedite settling outstanding payments owed to hospitals. Efforts to improve security and mobile ID registration have also been observed in counties such as Kitui, Makueni, and Machakos during regional town hall meetings and tours.

Nine members of a family, including a man, his wife, and their seven children, were killed in a suspected arson attack in Upanda Village, Ugunja, Siaya County, Kenya. The incident occurred on Tuesday night and is believed to be linked to a long-standing land dispute. Police investigations revealed that the doors of the house were locked from the outside, preventing escape. Following the tragedy, local residents reportedly set fire to four homes belonging to a suspect connected to the attack. Authorities have detained a woman suspected of involvement in the incident, and two boys have been arrested in connection with the deaths of an elderly couple in a separate house fire. The community remains deeply affected by the loss and the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Kenya's prison and security sector reforms have come under scrutiny as lawmakers expressed dissatisfaction with the slow pace of changes, highlighting issues such as poor conditions for officers, underutilized prison land, overcrowding, and a rise in prison-related scams. The Commissioner General of the Kenya Prisons Service, Patrick Aranduh, appeared before the Constitutional Implementation Oversight Committee (CIOC) to address these concerns. The CIOC Chair, Eric Karemba, sought clarification on the legal framework governing inmate labor. Meanwhile, Interior Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo affirmed that reforms in the National Police Service (NPS), Kenya Prisons, and the National Youth Service (NYS) are progressing as recommended by Chief Justice Maraga. However, the High Court recently declared the police reforms taskforce led by Maraga unconstitutional. In response, Dr. Omollo announced the government's intention to appeal the ruling, emphasizing that not all recommendations from the taskforce were invalidated.

Kenyan President William Ruto delivered a public lecture at Peking University in Beijing, where he emphasized the urgent need to establish a new world order that reflects current global realities. He criticized the governance structures of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, stating that these institutions remain controlled by wealthy countries and no longer effectively serve developing nations. Ruto called for reforms to transform these organizations into independent and apolitical entities, insulated from the national interests of their shareholders. He also expressed support for the One-China policy, a two-state solution in the Middle East, and dialogue over escalation in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Addressing global trade issues, Ruto warned against the actions of what he described as 'Cold War warriors' and condemned unilateral US tariffs, suggesting they deliver a 'death blow' to global commerce. Furthermore, he positioned Kenya as a potential bridge between East and West amid rising geopolitical tensions and highlighted the country's commitment to non-alignment, peaceful conflict resolution, sovereignty, and mutual respect. Deputy Prime Minister Musalia Mudavadi also indicated that Kenya is seeking China's assistance for major development projects.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has addressed ongoing challenges in the city, including poor road conditions, solid waste management, and drainage issues exacerbated by unprecedented rainfall. Sakaja acknowledged that Nairobi's drainage infrastructure was designed for smaller seasonal rains and pledged improvements once the current rainy season subsides in mid-June. He highlighted efforts to digitize revenue streams through a no-cash policy and emphasized progress in healthcare, including the opening of eight new theatres at Mama Lucy Hospital and the establishment of intensive care units (ICUs). Meanwhile, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has committed to enhancing government service delivery by fast-tracking the issuance of Good Conduct certificates and decentralizing passport processing to Huduma Centres. Ruku also led a multi-agency initiative to address flooding and landslides in Nairobi, visiting affected families in the Drive-In settlement of Utalii Ward, Ruaraka Constituency. He directed the formation of a team involving national and county governments to implement urgent mitigation measures and long-term solutions. Ruku was accompanied by Principal Secretary for Special Programmes Ismail Maalim and Ruaraka MP Tom Kajwang during the visit. Lawmakers have expressed concern over slow reforms in public service, citing poor conditions for officers, underutilized land, and an increase in prison-run scams.

The Advocates Disciplinary Tribunal (ADT) has found lawyer Nelson Havi guilty of professional misconduct, citing his use of defamatory, vulgar, and abusive language against former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president Allen Gichuhi. The tribunal stated that Havi's conduct embarrassed the legal profession. Havi has challenged the verdict, questioning the tribunal's jurisdiction over defamation claims and asserting that the decision is unlawful and unconstitutional. The case follows other disciplinary actions within the legal community, including charges against other advocates and debates over freedom of speech and professional conduct under Kenya's Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act No. 5 of 2018.

Kenyan lawmakers and analysts have expressed divergent views on the country's borrowing practices amid concerns over the national debt. Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has urged President William Ruto to halt the borrowing spree, arguing that loans hurt the economy and that Kenya should leverage existing assets such as the State's stake in Safaricom to fund development. Nyoro emphasized that Kenya has sufficient resources to support growth without further borrowing. Conversely, Senate Majority Leader Samson Cherargei defended the borrowing, noting that the current debt of Ksh. 11 trillion was largely accumulated before President Ruto's tenure and that borrowing remains necessary to sustain the budget due to a fiscal deficit. Other voices, including analyst Joshua Nyamori, acknowledged the debt burden but commended President Ruto's strategic engagement with China and focus on Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) as advantageous. Additionally, Dr. Fred Muhumuza highlighted concerns about Kenya being in a debt trap, cautioning that borrowing more will not resolve the debt problem. The debate underscores the ongoing fiscal challenges Kenya faces in balancing development needs with debt sustainability.

Heavy rains and flash floods in Nairobi, Kenya, have resulted in the deaths of six people, including a mother and her two children, and displaced hundreds of residents across several informal settlements such as Mathare and Mukuru kwa Reuben. The floods caused a boulder to collapse on a home in the Mathare slums, killing three individuals. Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant as rains continue, and the government has initiated multi-agency efforts to address drainage system failures contributing to the flooding. Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Kiringa Ruku visited affected families in the Drive-In settlement, Ruaraka Constituency, and emphasized the government's commitment to support flood victims. Concurrently, in Siaya County, a suspected arson attack linked to a land dispute killed nine members of a single family in Upanda village, Ugunja. Police investigations are ongoing, and the incident has led to community unrest, including the torching of homes belonging to suspects.