Sunday, June 28, 2026
Google search engine
Home Blog Page 23

Government Launches Nairobi Upgrade Plan

President William Ruto has unveiled a huge infrastructure and urban redevelopment initiative for Nairobi, with plans to spend about 700 million dollars on road, water, lighting, and security upgrades in the capital.

According to the President, the effort would be funded using local resources as part of a larger strategy to improve transportation, public safety, and service delivery in Nairobi.

Road Expansion and Urban Mobility Take Priority
At the centre of the plan is a large-scale expansion of Nairobi’s road network.

The government intends to construct and upgrade approximately 267 kilometers of new tarmac roads across the city. The investment is expected to ease congestion, improve transport connectivity, and support economic activity in rapidly growing urban areas.

Nairobi has continued to face mounting traffic pressure driven by population growth, increased vehicle ownership, and expanding commercial zones. The proposed road works are therefore aimed at improving motorability and reducing travel time for both businesses and commuters.

President Ruto said the project would significantly enhance movement within the capital while supporting long-term urban development goals.

Government Launches Nairobi Upgrade Plan
Government Launches Nairobi Upgrade Plan
Cleanup, Lighting and Water Projects Planned
Beyond roads, the government is also shifting attention to urban management and public services.

The plan includes a citywide cleanup programme targeting waste management and environmental sanitation. Authorities are also expected to expand street lighting infrastructure in key areas to improve visibility and safety, especially at night.

Water supply has also been identified as a priority. The government plans to inject additional water resources into Nairobi in response to growing demand and persistent shortages affecting sections of the city.

The measures form part of a wider effort to modernise Nairobi and improve the quality of life for residents.


Metropolitan Police Unit to Launch in July

A major policy shift is also expected in the city’s security structure.

President Ruto announced that Nairobi will, for the first time, have a metropolitan police unit beginning in July this year.

The specialised security arrangement is intended to strengthen law enforcement coordination and improve safety across the capital.

President Ruto said the new policing framework would help ensure adequate security as Nairobi continues to expand both economically and demographically.

 

 

Record-Breaking Vessel Docks at Lamu Port

The Kenya Ports Authority recorded a major achievement at the Port of Lamu after receiving the largest vessel ever to dock in East and Central Africa.

The MV Baltimore Express, a 369-metre container ship operated by Hapag-Lloyd, arrived from Salalah Port in Oman. The vessel spans nearly three football pitches and berthed smoothly at a 400-metre quay, confirming the port’s ultra-large ship capacity.

The call follows earlier deployments of sister vessels, reinforcing Lamu’s rising profile as a transshipment hub.

During its call, the vessel conducted restow operations of dangerous cargo, repositioning goods in compliance with International Maritime Organization regulations. All safety and compliance standards were strictly observed.

The operation involved careful cargo repositioning to maintain vessel stability and adhere to international safety protocols during port stay.

KPA Highlights Growing Global Standing
General Manager Captain Abdulaziz Mzee said the call reinforces Lamu’s global standing, comparing it to Singapore, Rotterdam and Hamburg.

“This lifts Lamu’s profile on the global maritime map,” he said. He noted that the port’s performance places it alongside some of the world’s most advanced maritime terminals.

Lamu’s advantage is its 17.5-metre deep harbor, allowing Panamax and post-Panamax vessels to enter with minimal dredging.

This gives it an edge over regional ports that rely on continuous dredging. This natural depth reduces operational costs and enhances competitiveness across East African shipping routes.

Record-Breaking Vessel Docks at Lamu Port
Record-Breaking Vessel Docks at Lamu Port
Rising Vessel Traffic and Infrastructure Expansion
Lamu has handled over 120 vessels this year with more expected as trade grows. KPA is investing in cranes terminal tractors and new equipment due within the year.

These investments are aimed at supporting increasing vessel traffic and improving turnaround times as Lamu strengthens its role in regional trade corridors.

Mzee confirmed that 90 of 5,000 vehicles discharged in March have been evacuated indicating improved clearance efficiency.

As global shipping shifts toward larger vessels Lamu positions itself as a future-ready gateway built to lead regional maritime trade.

 

National Assembly Calls for Public Input on Finance Bill 2026

The National Assembly has invited members of the public and stakeholders to submit memoranda on the Finance Bill which is currently under consideration by the Departmental Committee on Finance and National Planning.

In line with Article 118 of the Constitution and Standing Order 127, Parliament is required to facilitate public participation in legislative processes. The Clerk of the National Assembly has therefore formally opened submissions ahead of committee deliberations.

Expanded Definition of Royalties and Digital Taxation
Among the key proposals, the Bill seeks to redefine “royalty” under the Income Tax Act to include payments related to digital platforms, payment systems, card schemes, and software distribution arrangements. It also clarifies that non-resident rental income will be subject to a final tax rate of 30%.

In the digital economy space, the Bill introduces definitions for virtual assets and service providers, requiring compliance reporting and enabling automatic exchange of information with other jurisdictions.

It further empowers tax authorities to generate pre-populated tax returns based on available electronic data.

On VAT, the Bill proposes adjustments to input tax treatment where supplies are reclassified as exempt, and extends the period for claiming refunds on bad debts from two to three years. Hire purchase arrangements are also clarified as non-taxable supplies under specific conditions.

National Assembly Calls for Public Input on Finance Bill 2026
National Assembly Calls for Public Input on Finance Bill 2026
Exercise Duty and Consumption Tax Adjustments
Excise Duty changes include new rates on mobile phones at 25%, plastics at 10%, coal at 5%, and a significant increase in duties on tobacco products.

The Bill also revises tax treatment for winnings, gambling definitions, and gratuity payments under long-term contracts.

Additional reforms include reducing the Road Maintenance Levy from Ksh 3 to Ksh 1.50, exempting certain aircraft goods from levies, and adjusting Stamp Duty provisions to support Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs).

Stakeholders are required to submit written memoranda indicating their names and contacts by Monday, 25 May 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

Submissions can be delivered to the Office of the Clerk, First Floor, Main Parliament Buildings, Nairobi.

 

Ramaphosa Speaks on Xenophobic Attacks

0

South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned recent violent protests and criminal acts targeting foreign nationals in parts of the country, saying they do not reflect the views of South Africans or government policy.

In a written statement, Ramaphosa said the incidents are being driven by opportunists who are exploiting legitimate grievances, particularly among poor communities, under the false guise of “community activism.”

He warned that some individuals are unlawfully taking on state functions such as stopping people, checking identification, and searching private property, adding that such lawlessness will not be tolerated “regardless of who the perpetrators or victims are.”


Government Flags Risks of Illegal Immigration

At the same time, the President stressed that South Africa must deal decisively and within the law with illegal immigration, which he said poses risks to social stability, governance and national security.

He noted that undocumented migration places strain on healthcare, housing and municipal services, especially in poor communities.

Ramaphosa also highlighted the impact on the labour market, saying some employers are exploiting undocumented foreign workers instead of hiring citizens and paying lawful wages.

According to him, this is fuelling social tensions while undermining labour protections and eroding workers’ rights.

On border control, he said the government is balancing constitutional and international obligations with national security concerns.

The Border Management Authority (BMA) and the Defence Force, he said, are strengthening border security and tackling cross-border crime. He commended the BMA for intercepting about 450,000 people attempting to enter South Africa illegally in the past financial year.

He added that government is also tightening migration and citizenship systems while increasing enforcement in workplaces.
Ramaphosa Speaks on Xenophobic Attacks
Ramaphosa Speaks on Xenophobic Attacks
Call for Collective Responsibility
Ramaphosa emphasized that illegal immigration is a society-wide challenge requiring cooperation between government, the private sector and citizens.

The President further urged South Africans to reject actions that damage the country’s international reputation and undermine African solidarity.

He said that since 1994, South Africa has promoted human rights, African integration and cooperation, supported by a strong refugee protection framework that allows displaced persons to live in communities, work and access services such as healthcare and education.

He added that South Africa continues to deepen ties with the rest of Africa, including through education, cultural exchanges and the Pan-African Parliament, noting that millions of visitors from African countries contribute to tourism each year.

Ramaphosa stated that while South Africa, like many countries, faces migration pressures, it will continue to assert its sovereign right to regulate migration, secure borders and enforce laws.

He stressed that there is no place in the country for xenophobia, ethnic mobilisation, intolerance or violence, adding that all people in South Africa are bound by the same laws regardless of nationality.

 

Macron Urges Joint Investment in AI and Infrastructure Across Europe and Africa

French President Emmanuel Macron has called for stronger cooperation between Europe and Africa, arguing that both regions must work together to reduce dependence on external technology providers and build shared strategic autonomy in artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure.

He pointed out that many contemporary technology solutions are generated in the United States or China, leaving most other countries as consumers rather than creators.

He stated that Europe and Africa share the task of investing in artificial intelligence to achieve freedom. According to him, if both areas invest together, they will become much stronger and self-sufficient.

Infrastructure and Energy as the Foundation
Macron emphasized that infrastructure is central to this ambition, particularly computing capacity.

He stressed that building AI systems requires major investment in physical and digital infrastructure, including energy systems. Without sufficient energy, he warned, it will be impossible to develop AI infrastructure or expand computing capabilities at scale.

He emphasized the need to increase energy infrastructure, particularly renewable energy and nuclear power, to promote electrification in Europe and Africa.

This would benefit both domestic and industrial use, while also allowing for the expansion of computer infrastructure and the creation of fundamental AI models and firms.

Macron Urges Joint Investment in AI and Infrastructure Across Europe and Africa
Macron Urges Joint Investment in AI and Infrastructure Across Europe and Africa
Sovereignty Through Strategic Partnerships
Linking infrastructure to sovereignty, he pointed to partnerships such as those involving Amini, Bull, and Foxconn as examples of shared sovereignty between African, European, and Taiwanese companies.

Macron described these collaborations as essential in reducing global dependencies and strengthening technological independence. He also praised efforts in payment systems, particularly a Pan-African settlement system, and noted progress in mobile payments, including contributions from companies such as Orange.

Macron raised concerns about talent development and retention. He stated that Europe, particularly France, teaches many competent persons, but they must remain and find employment locally.

He mentioned that several AI professionals who were schooled in France and worked in Silicon Valley are now returning, adding to Europe’s rising leadership in artificial intelligence and quantum technologies.

He drew comparisons to Africa, emphasizing the significance of increasing education and training in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. He emphasized relationships between the French Development Agency and universities to develop new capabilities in AI and STEM disciplines.

Macron Urges Joint Investment in AI and Infrastructure Across Europe and Africa
Macron Urges Joint Investment in AI and Infrastructure Across Europe and Africa
Expanding Education and Digital Training
Macron said these initiatives aim to ensure that trained young people remain in their countries and contribute to development.

He further announced the expansion of university partnerships between Europe and Africa and called for accelerated investment in education.

He also highlighted corporate involvement, noting initiatives such as 50 digital centers expected to train one million young Africans by 2030, describing this as a key step in building future-ready skills across the continent.

Macron stressed that these efforts aim at strengthening cooperation, sovereignty and shared long-term development across both regions.

 

Gachagua Condemns Killing of Kenyans in Mandera

Former DP Rigathi Gachagua has strongly condemned the killing of six Kenyans in Arabia Sub-County, Mandera County, following what he described as an act of aggression by illegal foreign Jubaland forces operating inside Kenyan territory.

In a written statement, Gachagua termed the attack a tragic loss of innocent lives and expressed sympathy to the affected families.

“I send my deepest condolences to the families of the six innocent Kenyans who were brutally killed in Arabia Sub-County, Mandera County. I also wish the seven injured a quick and full recovery,” he said.

The former DP linked the incident to earlier warnings he had issued regarding the presence of Jubaland forces within Kenya’s borders. According to him, the occupation of large parts of Mandera Town by the foreign forces had already raised serious security concerns.

Last year, Gachagua warned about what he described as a growing threat posed by the illegal presence of Jubaland troops in the Republic of Kenya. He now says the latest killings have confirmed those fears.

“This tragic incident has sadly confirmed those fears,” he stated.

Calls for Immediate Removal of Foreign Forces
Gachagua called for the immediate removal of all foreign forces operating illegally within the area, arguing that Kenya’s sovereignty and the safety of its citizens must remain a priority.

He strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a heinous act that cannot be ignored.

“I strongly condemn this heinous act and demand the immediate removal of all illegal foreign forces from the area,” he said.

The former Deputy President further stressed that the country must protect its territorial integrity and avoid compromising national security for political or economic interests.

“The safety, sovereignty, and dignity of Kenyan citizens must be protected at all cost,” he added.

Gachagua Condemns Killing of Kenyans in Mandera
Gachagua Condemns Killing of Kenyans in Mandera
National Security Concerns Raised
The incident has renewed concerns over security along the Kenya-Somalia border, particularly in Mandera County, where cross-border tensions and armed incursions have remained a recurring challenge.

Gachagua argued that the country cannot afford to compromise its territorial integrity for what he termed as “cheap business and political gains” pursued by a few individuals in leadership.

“We cannot trade the territorial integrity of our nation for cheap business and political gains of a few individuals at the helm of our nation,” he said.

The attack and the remarks by Gachagua are expected to intensify debate over border security and the presence of foreign armed groups within Kenyan territory.

 

KTA Condemns Arrest of Kenyan Drivers’ Leaders in Uganda

The Kenya Transporters Association (KTA) has strongly condemned the reported arrest and detention of Kenyan drivers’ leaders by Ugandan security authorities following their involvement in resolving the recent standoff affecting truck drivers along the Nimule–Juba corridor.

According to KTA, the detained leaders played a key role in representing truck drivers and engaging authorities during negotiations over what the Association described as unfair and irregular arrests of truck drivers in South Sudan.

Their involvement contributed to the resolution of the dispute and led to the signing of the Record of Resolutions on Trade Facilitation and Highway Security on 9 May 2026. The agreement facilitated the resumption of normal trade operations along the corridor, which is a critical route for regional cargo movement.

KTA stated that it was deeply concerned that individuals who had participated in efforts to secure a peaceful solution were now reportedly facing arbitrary arrest.

“The detained leaders played a vital and constructive role in representing the interests of drivers and engaging with the relevant authorities,” the Association said.

KTA Condemns Arrest of Kenyan Drivers’ Leaders in Uganda
KTA Condemns Arrest of Kenyan Drivers’ Leaders in Uganda
Border Disruptions Raise Trade Concerns
The Association warned that the developments had already triggered strike action by drivers at the Malaba and Busia border points. The disruptions have affected cargo transportation and raised concerns over possible escalation that could negatively impact regional trade operations across East Africa.

The Nimule–Juba corridor is an important transport route linking regional markets, and interruptions along the route often affect the movement of goods between Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan.

KTA has now called on Ugandan security authorities to immediately and unconditionally release the detained leaders. The Association also urged authorities to guarantee their safety and well-being and facilitate their safe return to Kenya.

KTA Calls for Dialogue and Protection of Drivers
KTA further reiterated its commitment to constructive dialogue and continued cooperation in addressing challenges affecting transporters and drivers operating across the East African region.

 

KURA Announces Four-Month Closure of Section of Eldoret Road in Nairobi

The Kenya Urban Roads Authority has announced the temporary closure of a section of Eldoret Road in Nairobi to allow for the construction of a vehicular bridge across the Nairobi River.

In a public notice issued by the authority, the closure will take effect from 6 AM on Monday, 18th May 2026 and remain in place until 6 PM on Friday, 18th September 2026. The project period is expected to last four months.

Road Closure to Facilitate Bridge Construction
According to the notice, the road closure is intended to facilitate construction works being undertaken by the contractor at the Nairobi River crossing section.

Motorists using the affected route have been advised to use alternative roads as indicated by KURA

KURA further urged road users to follow directions issued by traffic police officers who will be deployed within the affected areas during the construction period.

KURA Announces Four-Month Closure of Section of Eldoret Road in Nairobi
KURA Announces Four-Month Closure of Section of Eldoret Road in Nairobi
Alternative Routes and Traffic Flow Measures
Alternative traffic flow arrangements have also been outlined in the notice.

A temporary pedestrian bridge will also be put in place to maintain movement across the river during the works.

The notice identifies sections that will remain operational for traffic flow, while clearly marking the working area and blocked road segments near the bridge construction point.

KURA Apologises for Expected Inconvenience
KURA apologised for the inconvenience that may be experienced during the closure period, stating that the works are necessary as part of ongoing urban transport improvements.

“We apologise for the inconvenience caused as we endeavour to Transform Urban Mobility,” the notice reads.

The project is expected to affect daily traffic movement along the Eldoret Road corridor, with motorists likely to experience diversions and delays during peak hours over the four-month construction window.

The public has been urged to cooperate with traffic management teams and observe all guidance issued throughout the duration of the project to ensure safety and smooth movement around the affected area.

 

DPP Hosts FBI Deputy Director Andrew Bailey

The Director of Public Prosecutions, Renson Ingonga, hosted the Deputy Director of the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation, Andrew Bailey, in Nairobi during a bilateral meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between Kenya and the United States in the fight against transnational crime.

The meeting reaffirmed the two nations’ long-standing partnership in tackling transnational organized crime, drug trafficking, terrorism, and terrorist funding.

The discussions were attended by senior officials from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) as well as representatives from US Department of Justice departments.

The engagements focused on enhancing international cooperation, strengthening mutual legal assistance and extradition mechanisms, and reinforcing operational partnerships targeting increasingly sophisticated cross-border criminal networks.

The talks also highlighted the growing need for closer collaboration between investigative and prosecutorial agencies as criminal networks continue to evolve across borders.

DPP Hosts FBI Deputy Director Andrew Bailey
DPP Hosts FBI Deputy Director Andrew Bailey
Focus Turns to Operational Cooperation
The discussions also centred on improving information sharing, enhancing joint operations, and strengthening legal frameworks that support cross-border investigations and prosecutions.

The meeting underscored the importance of cooperation between Kenya and the United States in addressing emerging security threats and organised criminal activities that increasingly require international partnerships.

DCI Hosts FBI Deputy Director at Mazingira Complex
In a related engagement, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) also hosted FBI Deputy Director Andrew Bailey during a high-level visit to the DCI Headquarters at Mazingira Complex in Nairobi.

The visit marked another milestone in the longstanding partnership between the DCI and the FBI.

DPP Hosts FBI Deputy Director Andrew Bailey
DPP Hosts FBI Deputy Director Andrew Bailey

Senior officials from both agencies held extensive discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation across several critical areas of law enforcement.

The areas discussed included counterterrorism, cybercrime, transnational organised crime, financial fraud, human trafficking, narcotics trafficking, money laundering, and crimes against children.

The engagements reflected continued efforts by Kenyan and United States law enforcement and prosecution agencies to strengthen institutional cooperation in tackling evolving criminal threats.

Strengthening Kenya–US Security Ties
The meetings between the DPP, the DCI, and FBI officials come amid continued collaboration between Kenya and the United States on matters of security, criminal investigations, and prosecution support.

The engagements reinforced commitments by both sides to strengthen operational partnerships, improve legal cooperation mechanisms, and enhance responses to complex criminal networks operating across jurisdictions.

 

Gender CS Condemns Killing of Baby Shirley in Tharaka Nithi

Gender CS Hanna Cheptumo has condemned the brutal killing of Baby Shirley, a three-year-old child from Muthokima Ward in Tharaka North Sub-County, Tharaka Nithi County.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children Services, the Cabinet Secretary expressed profound shock, deep sorrow and outrage over the child’s death following her disappearance and the recovery of her body.

The Ministry described the incident as a heinous act against a defenseless child and said the tragedy had deeply saddened both the family and the people of Tharaka Nithi County.

“This heinous act against a defenseless child is not only heartbreaking to the family and the people of Tharaka Nithi County, but also a grave affront to the conscience of our nation,” said CS Cheptumo.


Mother’s Day Tragedy Deepens Family Grief
The Ministry noted that the incident was particularly painful as it occurred during the Mother’s Day period, a time when families across the country and across the world celebrate the love, protection and joy that children bring to families.

Instead of celebrating with their daughter, Baby Shirley’s mother and family are now enduring grief and anguish following the tragic loss.

CS Cheptumo said that the Ministry and the nation stand in solidarity with the grieving family during the difficult period.

On behalf of the Ministry, CS Hanna conveyed condolences to the family, relatives, friends and the entire community mourning Baby Shirley.

“No parent or family should ever endure such pain and suffering,” the statement added.

The Ministry also commended the National Police Service and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations in Tharaka North for their swift response and ongoing investigations into the matter.

Gender CS Condemns Killing of Baby Shirley in Tharaka Nithi
Gender CS Condemns Killing of Baby Shirley in Tharaka Nithi

According to the CS, preliminary findings indicate evidence of severe violence and criminal conduct.

The Ministry urged investigative agencies to pursue the case thoroughly, expeditiously and without fear or favour to ensure all those responsible are apprehended and brought to justice.

Public Urged to Support Investigations
At the same time, the Ministry called on members of the public to cooperate fully with investigators by providing any information that may assist in the investigations.

It emphasized that community vigilance and collective responsibility are critical in protecting children from abuse, exploitation and violence.

The Ministry further stated that through relevant child protection structures and officers, it will continue supporting the affected family while working closely with county and national agencies to strengthen child protection mechanisms within communities.