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Faith Odhiambo Warns of Surge in Child Abductions, Trafficking Cases

Former LSK President Faith Odhiambo has raised concern over a sharp rise in child protection cases across Kenya.

Between January 2025 and March 2026, Kenya recorded 10,581 child protection cases, including 1,952 abductions and 173 trafficking cases, translating to an average of 23 children affected daily.

Recent incidents underscore the severity of the crisis. In Githurai, a two-year-old child was abducted by a teenager allegedly recruited to steal a child in exchange for a mobile phone.

In Juja, residents temporarily shut down the Thika Superhighway after four children went missing within two weeks.

In Central Kenya, authorities documented 372 incidents of violence against children within a year.

Faith Odhiambo Warns of Surge in Child Abductions, Trafficking Cases
Faith Odhiambo Warns of Surge in Child Abductions, Trafficking Cases

Call on DCI and ODPP

Faith Odhiambo has called on the DCI and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions to treat kidnapping and trafficking cases with urgency, emphasizing that existing laws prescribe life imprisonment for offenders but require full enforcement through investigations and prosecution.

“I want to see DCI and DPP match that seriousness with urgent investigations and full prosecutions, not just press releases,” she said.

She further urged Kenyans to remain vigilant and prioritize child safety, stating that protecting children is a fundamental responsibility of society and essential to safeguarding the country’s future.

The situation, she emphasized, should be treated as a national emergency requiring immediate multi-agency intervention, enhanced community reporting mechanisms, and accelerated prosecution timelines.

 

National Assembly Dismisses Claims on Annual Land Rent in Finance Bill 2026

The National Assembly has dismissed claims circulating online that the Finance Bill, 2026 contains provisions requiring Kenyans to pay annual land rent on freehold land.

In a public clarification issued, the National Assembly described the reports as false, misleading, and intended to cause unnecessary public alarm. The statement comes amid growing debate online over alleged land reforms linked to the proposed Finance Bill.

According to National Assembly, the Finance Bill, 2026 contains a total of 57 clauses, none of which relates to land ownership, land tenure, or annual land rent.

Assembly Rejects Freehold-to-Leasehold Claims
Parliament further clarified that the Bill does not seek to convert freehold land into leasehold land, contrary to claims widely shared on social media platforms.

The Assembly also denied allegations that a separate law had already been signed by the President introducing annual land rent for freehold landowners.

It stated that no such Bill currently exists in Parliament and no legislation concerning land rent on freehold land has been passed or assented to during the current parliamentary term.

National Assembly Dismisses Claims on Annual Land Rent in Finance Bill 2026
National Assembly Dismisses Claims on Annual Land Rent in Finance Bill 2026
Public Urged to Ignore Misleading Information
The clarification is part of efforts by Parliament to counter misinformation surrounding the Finance Bill, which has continued to attract public scrutiny following recent debates on taxation and economic reforms.

The National Assembly urged Kenyans to verify information through official parliamentary channels before sharing it online.

Parliament also reminded the public that copies of the Finance Bill, 2026 and all Bills before the House are publicly accessible through official parliamentary platforms.

The Finance Bill, 2026 is expected to remain a key topic in national discussions as lawmakers prepare for further debate and public participation sessions.

The Bill outlines government revenue-raising measures and proposed tax adjustments for the upcoming financial year. However, Parliament’s latest clarification signals growing concern over misinformation spreading online regarding its contents.

 

Muturi Raises Alarm Over Divisive Politics Following Omar Remarks

DPK Party leader Justin Muturi has strongly defended the place of the Kikuyu community in Kenya, warning against divisive ethnic rhetoric that threatens national unity and peaceful coexistence.

In a written statement, the DPK Party leader said Kenya belongs equally to all citizens and no community should ever be treated as outsiders in their own country.

Muturi stated that the Kikuyu community are not “tenants in Kenya,” but citizens by birth, right and sacrifice.

“Kikuyu community are not tenants in Kenya. They are citizens of this Republic by birth, by right and by sacrifice. No Kenyan community should ever be made to feel like strangers in their own country through reckless, divisive and dangerous statements,” Muturi stated.

His remarks appeared to respond directly to comments made by Hassan Omar, which Muturi described as unfortunate, inflammatory and deeply disturbing.

According to Muturi, an apology alone is not enough when leaders make statements capable of dividing Kenyans along ethnic lines.

He argued that leadership carries a responsibility to exercise restraint, respect and accountability, especially on matters touching on ethnicity and national cohesion.

Muturi Raises Alarm Over Divisive Politics Following Omar Remarks
Muturi Raises Alarm Over Divisive Politics Following Omar Remarks
Call for Action Against Tribal Politics
Muturi also challenged President Ruto to take firm action against leaders promoting divisive narratives.

He said the President must demonstrate commitment to fighting tribalism by addressing inflammatory remarks decisively rather than remaining silent.

“Silence or inaction only emboldens such behavior,” Muturi stated, warning that failure to confront ethnic incitement could undermine national unity.

The former National Assembly Speaker further urged Kenyans not to be intimidated by political rhetoric designed to create fear or division among communities.

He called on citizens to reject politics rooted in ethnicity and instead embrace justice, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.

Muturi cautioned that the country must avoid repeating mistakes of the past by promoting inclusive leadership and national unity.

The DPK leader called for responsible leadership across the political divide, saying careless ethnic rhetoric risks damaging the social fabric that holds the country together.

“We must never allow Kenya to walk that path again,” he said.

 

Visa Kenya Brings the Force to Nairobi with Exclusive The Mandalorian and Grogu Premiere Experience

Visa Kenya Brings the Force to Nairobi with Exclusive The Mandalorian and Grogu Premiere Experience

Right in the middle of the famous Two Rivers Mall, inside the laughter-filled halls that can either crack your ribs or emotionally break you down, the Century Cinemax made my Saturday one to remember.

I had the opportunity to attend an exclusive screening courtesy of Visa Inc. Kenya, which collaborated with The Walt Disney Company to give cardholders the chance to be among the first in Kenya to experience the highly anticipated Star Wars film on the big screen.

More than just a movie night, the experience blended blockbuster entertainment with unforgettable fan engagement. From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere felt electric. The venue transformed into a glamorous red-carpet experience complete with immersive activations, themed setups, and excited fans eager to step back into the Star Wars universe.

For Visa, the partnership represented more than entertainment. It reflected the brand’s growing focus on turning everyday payments into access, and access into memorable experiences that consumers can genuinely connect with.

The collaboration also highlighted how global brands are increasingly using lifestyle and entertainment experiences to deepen customer engagement beyond traditional financial services.

Visa Kenya Brings the Force to Nairobi with Exclusive The Mandalorian and Grogu Premiere Experience
Visa Kenya Brings the Force to Nairobi with Exclusive The Mandalorian and Grogu Premiere Experience
A Thrilling Return to the Star Wars Universe

I would be mean if I didn’t give a little synopsis of The Mandalorian and Grogu movie that I became among the first in Kenya to experience the next chapter of the Star Wars universe on the big screen in 3D.

The Mandalorian and Grogu embark on their most thrilling mission yet in Lucasfilm’s “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu,” an all-new Star Wars film opening exclusively in theatres May 22, 2026. The evil Empire has fallen, and Imperial warlords remain scattered throughout the galaxy. As the fledgling New Republic works to protect everything the Rebellion fought for, they have enlisted the help of legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his young apprentice Grogu.

Directed by Jon Favreau, “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” also stars Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White. The film is written by Jon Favreau, Dave Filoni, and Noah Kloor, while the music is composed by Ludwig Göransson.

More Than a Premiere

Beyond the stunning visuals and nostalgic excitement, the screening showed how entertainment continues to bring people together through shared experiences. Fans laughed, cheered, and immersed themselves in the cinematic adventure, proving once again why the Star Wars franchise remains one of the most influential storytelling universes globally.

As brands continue exploring new ways to connect with audiences, collaborations like this between Visa and Disney demonstrate the growing power of experience-driven marketing where consumers are not just customers, but part of unforgettable cultural moments.

Security Operation Dismantles Al-Shabaab Camp in Qanjara Durow, Digdiga Area

Security forces have dismantled a suspected Al-Shabaab camp at Qanjara Durow in the Digdiga general area following a coordinated joint security operation that escalated into a fierce exchange of fire.

According to the National Police Service (NPS), the joint team first established a forward presence near Gel Qad Junction before advancing deeper into Qanjara Durow, where they encountered suspected militants.

A heavy firefight ensued, during which the security team overpowered the attackers and secured the area.


Engagement and Neutralisation of Militants
The operation was followed by a systematic clearance of the camp, during which additional militants were neutralised during the sweep conducted by the security teams.

According to the NPS, security personnel recovered assorted materials linked to militant activities, including communication equipment, improvised explosive device (IED) components, uniforms, ammunition, food supplies, and other logistical items used to sustain the camp.

All recovered materials have been secured for further forensic examination as investigations continue into the network’s operations and logistics.

Recovered items were documented and preserved under standard evidentiary handling procedures to support ongoing investigations into militant supply networks and operational links.

Security Operation Dismantles Al-Shabaab Camp in Qanjara Durow, Digdiga Area
Security Operation Dismantles Al-Shabaab Camp in Qanjara Durow, Digdiga Area
National Police Service Statement
The National Police Service said it remains committed to protecting communities and sustaining coordinated operations aimed at degrading extremist and criminal networks across affected regions.

Members of the public are urged to continue reporting suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through emergency numbers 999 or 911.

The National Police Service reiterated its commitment to sustained security operations and encouraged continued public vigilance, noting that timely information from citizens remains critical in preventing and responding to security threats.

 

 

Kindiki launches Cherangany ecosystem restoration drive

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to environmental conservation and ecosystem restoration, saying Kenya’s long-term economic and social stability depends on protecting biodiversity and natural resources.

Speaking in Kapyego, Elgeyo Marakwet County, during celebrations to mark the International Day for Biological Diversity, Kindiki said environmental protection remains central to the Government’s development agenda.

He noted that biodiversity conservation is directly linked to climate resilience, agriculture, food security, and public health, warning that environmental degradation continues to threaten livelihoods across the country.

“Maintaining the natural environmental quantities of the world’s species of flora and fauna is intricately linked to our climate, our agriculture, our food security and even public health,” he said.

Kindiki said the Government remains committed to upholding the constitutional right to a clean and healthy environment for all Kenyans.


Tree Planting Programme Gains Momentum

Kindiki said the national programme to plant and grow 15 billion trees by 2032 is progressing steadily, with 1.7 billion trees already planted since the initiative was launched in 2022.

According to the DP Kindiki, early structural and logistical challenges that had slowed implementation have now been addressed, paving the way for accelerated tree planting and improved survival rates.

The programme forms part of Kenya’s broader climate action strategy aimed at increasing forest cover, restoring degraded land, and strengthening water catchment areas.

Kindiki launches Cherangany ecosystem restoration drive
Kindiki launches Cherangany ecosystem restoration drive

He said restoration efforts across the country’s five major water towers have also intensified.

The Government has prioritised conservation activities in Mt Kenya, the Aberdare Ranges, the Mau Forest Complex, Cherangany Hills, and Mt Elgon, all of which play a critical role in water supply, biodiversity protection, and climate regulation.

Cherangany Restoration Programme Launched
During the event, Kindiki presided over the official launch of the Cherangany Ecosystem Restoration Programme, popularly known as CHERISH.

The initiative is spearheaded by the OKM Foundation under the patronage of Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen.

The programme seeks to restore degraded sections of the Cherangany ecosystem through tree planting, community participation, and sustainable environmental management.

 

 

Mudavadi Warns Kenya to Brace for Tougher Economic Times

Prime CS Musalia Mudavadi has warned that Kenya and other developing economies should prepare for more economic pressure as global crises continue to disrupt markets, funding systems, and livelihoods.

Speaking during a forum in KICC, Nairobi, Mudavadi said the world has experienced a series of unprecedented shocks in recent years, beginning with the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the ongoing Israel–Hamas war.

According to him, the cumulative impact of these crises has fundamentally altered global economic and development priorities.

He noted that the shocks have affected funding flows to multilateral institutions and research-driven organisations, forcing countries to rethink how they allocate resources and respond to emergencies.

Innovation Must Drive Faster Solutions
Mudavadi said the current situation demands a shift away from “business as usual,” adding that innovation and research institutions must now play a more urgent role in helping societies adapt to rapidly changing global realities.

He challenged innovators and researchers to accelerate the pace at which solutions are delivered to communities, especially in developing countries where economic vulnerabilities are often more severe.

“The speed and flexibility at which your innovation can respond will be very important in helping communities adjust to these global shocks,” he said.

The Prime Cabinet Secretary acknowledged that research processes are often lengthy and resource-intensive, but stressed that extraordinary times require faster and more adaptive approaches.

He argued that institutions involved in science, innovation, and technology must develop practical solutions capable of easing economic and social pressures before crises escalate further.

Mudavadi Warns Kenya to Brace for Tougher Economic Times
Mudavadi Warns Kenya to Brace for Tougher Economic Times
Middle East Crisis Expected to Have Lasting Impact
Mudavadi particularly pointed to the Middle East conflict, warning that its economic consequences are likely to persist long after fighting subsides.

He said the full effects of the crisis have not yet fully filtered into global and local economies, cautioning that Kenya could begin experiencing more pressure within the next three to four months.

According to him, governments have a responsibility to prepare citizens psychologically and economically for more difficult conditions ahead.

“We need to brace ourselves and start looking at how to manage some of the challenges that are ahead of us,” he said.

 

Manchester United Extends Michael Carrick Contract Until 2028

Manchester United has confirmed that Michael Carrick will continue as head coach of the men’s first team after signing a new contract that runs until 2028.

Carrick, who returned to the club in January, has made an immediate impact, earning the Premier League Manager of the Month award following early wins over Manchester City and Arsenal in his opening matches.

Under his leadership, United have secured qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League, recording 11 wins from 16 matches and registering the highest Premier League points tally since his arrival.

Carrick’s Legacy as a Player
Carrick, one of Manchester United’s most decorated players, made 464 appearances for the club, winning five Premier League titles, the FA Cup, two League Cups, the Champions League, the Europa League and the FIFA Club World Cup.

“From the moment that I arrived here 20 years ago, I felt the magic of Manchester United,” Carrick said. “Carrying the responsibility of leading this club fills me with immense pride.”

“Throughout the past five months, the players have shown resilience, togetherness and determination that define the club.

Now it is time to move forward together with ambition and purpose. Manchester United and its supporters deserve to compete for the biggest honours again.”

Manchester United Extends Michael Carrick Contract Until 2028
Manchester United Extends Michael Carrick Contract Until 2028
Leadership Endorsement from Club Management
Jason Wilcox, Man United director of football, said Carrick has earned the opportunity to continue leading the men’s team, citing strong results and alignment with club values and traditions.

He added that Carrick’s progress in securing Champions League qualification and building a winning culture at Carrington should not be understated.

United now enter a new phase under Carrick’s leadership, with expectations rising as the club aims to compete for major domestic and European honours in the coming seasons.

According to the club hierarchy, Carrick’s leadership has also strengthened the environment at Carrington, with players responding positively to his emphasis on discipline, unity and high-performance standards.

His approach is viewed as consistent with Manchester United’s long-standing identity of developing competitive, resilient teams capable of challenging at the highest level across all competitions.

This contract extension to 2028 is seen as a signal of stability and long-term planning within the club, as Manchester United look to consolidate their return to the UEFA Champions League and build sustained competitiveness in domestic football.

 

138 Dead, 1227 Injured in Kenya Protests Over Five Years, Reports Show

Amnesty International Kenya and Odipo Dev have launched the Kenya Freedom Index, a new data-driven platform tracking violations of the constitutional right to peaceful assembly in Kenya amid escalating fuel protests.

The index analyses 1,002 protests recorded between 2020 and 2025, revealing a sharp rise in demonstrations driven by economic hardship, political grievances and environmental concerns.

According to the report, protests have more than doubled in the past two years and are increasingly met with unlawful force by security agencies.

Data from the Kenya Freedom Index shows that community residents organised the largest share of protests 360, followed by workers 235, young people 171, students 98 and civil society organisations 63.

Economic freedom concerns dominated at 452 protests, exceeding political and social grievances combined. Nairobi accounted for 29 percent of protests, followed by Nakuru at 5 percent and Mombasa at 4 percent.

138 Dead, 1227 Injured in Kenya Protests Over Five Years, Reports Show
138 Dead, 1227 Injured in Kenya Protests Over Five Years, Reports Show
Policing Response and Human Rights Concerns
Over 30 percent of documented protests were dispersed by police using tear gas, with the report recording 138 deaths, 1,227 injuries and 2,128 arrests over five years.

The findings highlight concerns over arbitrary arrests, excessive charges, pre-trial detention and intimidation used to suppress dissent.

Amnesty International Kenya and VOCAL Africa have urged the National Police Service and government to respect, protect and fulfil the right to peaceful assembly under Article 37 of the Constitution and international human rights standards.

“We must end the use of excessive and unlawful force, including live ammunition against protesters, and ensure accountability for all unlawful killings and injuries,” said Amnesty Kenya Executive Director Irungu Houghton.

Calls for Reform and Accountability
Amnesty Kenya calls for legal and policing reforms, improved data transparency, and action on underlying grievances, especially economic conditions, as Kenya approaches the second anniversary of the June 2024 Gen Z protests and prepares for the 2027 election cycle.

According to Amnesty Kenya, data was compiled from systematic mapping of protest events reported by state agencies, oversight bodies, civil society organisations and media houses, including the Ministry of Interior, Kenya National Commission on Human Rights, Independent Policing Oversight Authority and ACLED.

 

EACC Cracks Down on Fake Certificates, Arrests Former OAG Staffer

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has intensified efforts to tighten verification of academic and professional certificates ahead of the 2027 General Elections, as concerns over forged qualifications in public service continue to rise.

The Commission has urged universities, colleges, examination bodies and sector regulators to strengthen examination and qualification verification systems in order to curb cases of certificate forgery and ensure only genuinely earned academic credentials are used for recruitment and public office eligibility.

Speaking during a Bungoma County Assembly workshop in Kisumu, EACC CEO Abdi Mohamud, through Western Regional Manager Eric Ngumbi, emphasized the need for strict due diligence in vetting academic papers, warning that weak verification systems continue to expose public institutions to fraud.

The Commission further reaffirmed its commitment to fighting academic fraud, noting that it will pursue recovery of salaries, allowances and other benefits obtained through forged certificates, in line with its broader anti-corruption enforcement mandate.

EACC Cracks Down on Fake Certificates, Arrests Former OAG Staffer
EACC Cracks Down on Fake Certificates, Arrests Former OAG Staffer
Arrest of Former OAG Staffer in Fake Certificate Crackdown
The EACC also arrested a former employee of the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) in connection with an ongoing crackdown on the use of fake academic certificates in public service recruitment.

The suspect is accused of using a forged Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) certificate, allegedly obtained from Umina Secondary School, to secure employment at the Office of the Auditor General.

Investigations by the Commission established that she allegedly used the falsified documents during her application process and was subsequently employed, earning salaries and benefits amounting to KSh 5,838,790 over the period of her service.

Following conclusion of investigations, the EACC forwarded the case file to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), who approved charges including forgery, uttering a false document, and fraudulent acquisition of public property.

The suspect has since been released on a KSh 50,000 cash bail pending arraignment in court, as legal proceedings are set to continue.

The Commission also confirmed that it will initiate civil proceedings to recover all salaries and benefits earned on the basis of the alleged fake academic qualifications, reinforcing its position that no proceeds of corruption will be retained.