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National Assembly passes sports amendment bill 2026 as Kenya moves to strengthen laws against match-fixing

By
Denilson Muhando
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The National Assembly has passed the Sports (Amendment) Bill, 2026, marking a major step towards strengthening Kenya’s legal framework against match-fixing and manipulation of sporting competitions.

The Bill, sponsored by Nominated MP Irene Nyakerario Mayaka, seeks to protect the integrity of Kenyan sports by criminalising practices that compromise fair competition and put athletes who compete honestly at a disadvantage.

For the first time, the proposed amendments provide a comprehensive legal definition of manipulation of a sporting competition. The offence would cover offering, giving or receiving an undue advantage to influence a sporting outcome, conspiring to fix a competition, deliberately underperforming to achieve a predetermined result and using insider information for betting purposes.

The legislation also gives Sports Kenya a stronger investigative role. The agency would be empowered to receive reports of suspected manipulation and conduct investigations in collaboration with other relevant agencies, with investigations expected to be concluded within six months.

The Bill further expands the mandate of the Sports Disputes Tribunal, allowing it to hear appeals arising from decisions made by Sports Kenya in cases involving alleged manipulation of sporting competitions.

Individuals convicted of sports manipulation would face a fine of up to KSh1 million, imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year, or both, according to the Bill.

The proposed law also introduces consequences beyond criminal punishment. Clubs and sporting professionals involved in manipulation could face forfeiture of matches, disqualification from competitions and, in serious cases, lifetime bans from regulated sporting events.

Any financial benefit obtained through manipulation would also be subject to forfeiture with the  legislation coming as Kenya seeks to address longstanding concerns over the integrity of sporting competitions.

The country has previously dealt with match-manipulation allegations and disciplinary cases involving football officials. In one notable case, FIFA imposed a lifetime ban on Kenyan referee Otieno Odhiambo after finding him guilty of match manipulation. Such cases have highlighted the vulnerability of sports to attempts to influence results for financial gain.

The new legislation is therefore intended to close gaps in Kenya’s existing legal framework, which currently does not specifically provide a comprehensive criminal offence covering manipulation of sporting competitions. Parliament has noted that sports federations have largely relied on internal disciplinary measures when dealing with such cases.

The Bill’s passage follows its introduction in Parliament in March and subsequent debate in the National Assembly, where lawmakers argued that Kenya needs legislation aligned with international standards on sporting integrity.

With the National Assembly having approved the Bill, the next stage will be consideration by the Senate before the legislative process can be completed.

If enacted, the amendments would give Kenyan authorities a clearer framework for reporting, investigating and punishing sports manipulation while strengthening protections for athletes, clubs and competitions.

For Kenyan sport, the message from Parliament is increasingly clear: sporting success should be determined by preparation, talent and performance, rather than attempts to manipulate competition.

Faith and football drive St. Joseph’s Kitale in FEASSSA title bid

By
Denilson Muhando
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St. Joseph’s Girls Kitale are drawing strength from both football and faith as they continue their pursuit of a maiden Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Association, FEASSSA, football title in Morogoro, Tanzania.

The Kenyan champions have made prayer an important part of their campaign, with players, coaches and school officials coming together after every match to pray and seek guidance, regardless of whether the team has won, drawn or lost.

Head coach Francis Ojilo in an interview says prayer has helped create unity within the squad, while some players have also chosen to fast as they seek spiritual strength and guidance throughout the tournament.

Ojilo says the players view their talent as a gift from God and believe that prayer gives them an opportunity to seek guidance as they compete on the regional stage,with the  strong spiritual foundation becoming particularly important after St. Joseph’s experienced a slow start to their FEASSSA campaign.

The Kenyan champions opened the tournament with two draws, results that tested the players’ confidence and emotional stability. According to Ojilo, the technical team had to work on the players’ mental strength while also addressing their tactical weaknesses.

The coach says he reminded the players that the tournament was a long journey and that there was no reason to panic after the opening results. He encouraged them to remain focused and approach every match as an opportunity to improve.

St. Joseph’s finally found their scoring form when they produced a dominant display against Tanzania’s Kilombero Secondary School, securing a convincing 5-0 victory at Jamhuri Stadium.

Conny Ayieko was among the standout performers, scoring twice, while Miriam Silali, Fleviah Khatenje and Beryl Akumu also found the back of the net.

The emphatic victory lifted St. Joseph’s to five points from three matches and significantly strengthened their hopes of reaching the semi-finals.

Ojilo says the technical team had placed particular emphasis on composure in the final third after the players struggled to convert their chances in the opening two matches.

The coach was pleased with the response, saying the players implemented the instructions effectively and created more scoring opportunities.

Away from the pitch, prayer continues to remain central to the team’s routine. Chief Principal Dr. Rosebella Khatenje Munzala has also joined the players and technical bench during their post-match prayers, reinforcing the school’s strong Catholic foundation.

St. Joseph’s Girls Kitale arrived at the FEASSSA championships after making history by winning their first-ever Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association national girls’ football title.

That national triumph earned them the opportunity to represent Kenya at the East African competition, where they are now seeking to add another major achievement to their growing football history.

As the decisive stages of the tournament approach, the Trans Nzoia-based side are combining tactical preparation, improved finishing, mental resilience and faith in their pursuit of regional glory.

For St. Joseph’s Girls Kitale, the dream of lifting their first FEASSSA title is being pursued not only through hard work on the football pitch, but also through prayer, fasting and a strong belief that their historic journey can go all the way to the top.

8-year-old boy dies after puff adder bite in Boruharu, Marsabit

By
Mike Kwoba
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Portrait of a puff adder (Bitis arietans) in defensive position, southern Africa

MARSABIT — An 8-year-old boy has died after being bitten by a puff adder in Boruharo village, Dirib Gombo location, Marsabit Central Sub-County, Marsabit County.

According to Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Senior Assistant Directorin charge of North Eastern Region, Bakari Chongwa, the incident occurred on Monday as the boy was playing with other children inside their homestead.

The snake bit the boy during play. His condition deteriorated rapidly and he died from the effects of the venom.

KWS officers, working with security personnel, responded to the scene. They captured the snake alive and later relocated it to Marsabit National Park to prevent further danger to residents.

Chongwa said the incident has raised concern over the presence of dangerous snakes in residential areas, especially as children play outdoors unaware of the risks around them.

The boy was buried in accordance with community customs as family, relatives and residents mourned his death.

In a separate incident, another puff adder was found in Qachacha area, Dirib Gombo Location. KWS officers captured the snake and relocated it to Marsabit National Park.

KWS has urged residents in affected areas to be vigilant, especially when they encounter snakes or other wildlife near homes.

Residents are advised not to approach or attempt to kill snakes when spotted, but to immediately alert KWS or security officers for proper action.

Ahead of El Niño Rains, Marsabit Residents Patch Roads, Demand Government Action

By
Mike Kwoba
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MARSABIT — Residents of Manyatta Ginda, on the outskirts of Marsabit town, have resorted to rehabilitate their own roads, citing poor infrastructure and what they termed as government inaction.

Armed with jembes, pangas, shovels and wheelbarrows, the residents on Tuesday, August 18, worked to clear and patch damaged sections of the roads.

“We are tired of waiting for authorities to act,” they said.

The residents faulted the Marsabit County Government’s Roads Department and the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA), saying complaints on the poor state of roads have gone unanswered.

They said the bad roads are affecting transport and daily activities, with some areas becoming increasingly inaccessible.

The community said the voluntary exercise was meant to highlight the severity of the problem and push the government for urgent intervention.

“Citizens should not be forced to use their own labor and resources to do government work,” one resident said.

Residents warned the situation will worsen during heavy rains and called for immediate repairs to prevent further damage.

They urged the county government to use disaster or emergency funds to repair roads ahead of expected El Niño rains.

They also warned that it would be difficult for Marsabit residents to re-elect current leaders in the next general election.

Saku parliamentary aspirant Abdikadir Doyo, alias Ebisa, who joined residents in the repairs, called on KeRRA and the County Roads Department to act swiftly.

The aspirant accused current elected leaders in Marsabit of failing residents and said their poor performance had undermined the image of President William Ruto’s administration in the county.

He called for action against officials he accused of failing to deliver on their responsibilities.

“Current leaders have given President William Ruto’s government a bad name through poor performance,” he said.

He said the poor state of roads is already hurting residents, traders and transporters, with some areas becoming impassable during rains.

Ebisa urged the national and county governments to collaborate and put infrastructure measures in place before the rainy season to reduce damage.

He challenged Saku youth to know their rights and elect accountable leaders in next year’s general election.

Poverty, stigma keep disabled children out of school in West Pokot

By
Hellen Nanjala
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KAPENGURIA, West Pokot — Poverty and stigma are forcing children with disabilities out of school in West Pokot, with some parents hiding them at home or sending them to herd livestock instead of supporting their education.

The issue came to light Sunday, August 16, during a donation drive at Keringet School for the Hearing Impaired in Kapenguria Constituency. Learners received mattresses, beds, clothes, food and other supplies.

Kapenguria MP Samuel Moroto said disability should not bar children from education.

“Every child deserves an opportunity to learn, grow, and realise their full potential,” Moroto said.

He pledged to lobby for more resources for Keringet and other special-needs schools, and to fund a main gate and perimeter fence through CDF to improve security for learners with hearing impairment.

Keringet Headteacher Charles Kimayo said poverty is the biggest obstacle. Some parents struggling with basic needs, view children with disabilities as unable to contribute to the family.

“Some parents see their children as if they are not useful. But when supported, they can become useful members of society,” Kimayo said.

The school is also grappling with inadequate facilities, limited funding, insufficient accommodation and a shortage of specialised teachers. It has only 13 teachers.

The Children’s Department donated 20 mattresses, furniture, food and hygiene supplies including rice, beans, maize, oil, and sanitary towels.

Despite the challenges, Keringet learners continue to excel. The school has represented Kenya in East Africa in folk songs.

Two learners are currently competing in Morogoro, Tanzania, while others have performed well in national music contests in Bungoma.

Kimayo appealed for a senior school section at Keringet to keep learners close to home instead of sending them to Kakamega, Bungoma, Litein and Kapsabet.

He also asked for more classrooms, teachers’ houses, specialised staff and a perimeter fence.

School representative Saimon Kakuko urged well-wishers to sponsor learners from vulnerable families at about Sh15,000 per child annually.

Parent Amina Soita, whose child is in Grade Seven, said the donations had eased the financial burden on families.

Speakers urged communities to challenge misconceptions about disability and ensure no child is denied education because of poverty, stigma or fear.

President William Ruto meets with Catholic Church leaders

By
Newton Ingui
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President William Ruto met with Catholic Church leaders, including Metropolitan Archbishop of Nairobi Philip Anyolo and executive representatives from the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops (KCCB).

Discussions focused on addressing economic hardship, mitigating political tension, and fostering social cohesion through constructive national discourse.

Both parties emphasized strengthening collaboration in critical sectors, specifically primary healthcare facilities and educational institutions managed by faith-based organizations.

Archbishop Anyolo reiterated the Catholic Church’s advocacy for peaceful resolution of governance disputes and urged servant leadership centered on the socio-economic welfare of the public.

The meeting forms part of ongoing engagements between the Executive and religious organizations aimed at promoting stability, policy consultation, and public service Delivery across Kenya. Further official updates regarding shared policy outcomes or legislative consultations are available via the official State House Kenya Channel.

Mugiithi star Samidoh eyes Ol Joro Orok parliamentary seat

By
Newton Ingui
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Popular Mugithi artist and Administration Police officer Samuel Muchoki, widely known as Samidoh, has emerged as a key figure eyeing the Ol Joro Orok parliamentary seat in Nyandarua County.

The move places Samidoh among a expanding movement of high-profile media and entertainment figures transitioning into elective politics in Kenya. Analysis on Kenya’s entertainment-to-politics pipeline from Africa Uncensored notes that public figures leverage their social media reach and cultural popularity to connect directly with youth demographics.

Samidoh has maintained deep ties to Ol Joro Orok through personal investments, including agricultural ventures in the constituency. His dual profile as a law enforcement officer and one of the country’s top Kikuyu musicians has sustained significant interest across the region.

Supporters view his potential candidacy as a fresh leadership approach for the constituency, citing his grassroots connection with the community. Conversely, political commentators point out that transitioning from entertainment to parliamentary service requires navigating complex policy and legislative demands.

The Ol Joro Orok parliamentary seat is currently held by Hon. Michael Mwangi Muchira. Information regarding political party nominations, voter registration requirements, and official election schedules can be accessed through the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) portal.

Several tourists killed in helicopter crash at Mount Ololokwe in Samburu

By
Binti Wangila
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Several tourists have been killed after a helicopter crashed near the foot of Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County on Wednesday morning, prompting rescue and recovery operations at the scene.

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) confirmed the accident, identifying the aircraft as a Eurocopter EC130 B4, registration 5Y-GYM.

According to KCAA, the helicopter was flying from Loisaba to Ewasonyiro when it crashed at approximately 9:13 a.m.

“KCAA is coordinating with the relevant agencies and stakeholders in response to the accident,” the authority said.

The Ministry of Roads and Transport’s Air Accident Investigation Department is leading investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.

KCAA also conveyed its condolences to the families of those who died in the incident.

Police reports indicate that seven people were on board the helicopter, including one woman. Some of the occupants are reported to have died at the scene, while rescue and recovery efforts continued.

The helicopter was operated by Lady Lorry Flight Company and was reportedly heading towards the summit of Mount Ololokwe before proceeding towards Ewasonyiro.

The cause of the crash remains unknown as investigators begin efforts to establish what happened before the aircraft went down.

Earlier, local security firm Armistice Security Consult International (ASCI) reported that the helicopter had crashed near Kirish, close to the mountain, which is also regarded as a site of cultural significance.

Witnesses reportedly saw smoke and flames rising from the crash site, prompting efforts to reach the area.

ASCI said preliminary information from local residents indicated that the helicopter was operating from Loisaba and had picked up clients from Suiyan.

The clients were reportedly booked through End Beyond Safaris, while ASCI said the helicopter operates from the Loisaba Conservancy area.

Authorities have yet to release the identities of those killed in the crash.

Further details are expected as rescue operations continue and investigators work to determine the cause of the accident.

Somalia faces deepening humanitarian crisis as aid workers come under growing threat

By
Binti Wangila
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Somalia continues to face a severe humanitarian crisis, with millions of people requiring food, health and nutrition assistance as humanitarian workers delivering vital services increasingly operate in dangerous and insecure environments.

As the world marks World Humanitarian Day, the United Nations has highlighted the difficult conditions facing aid workers in Somalia and other crisis-affected parts of the world.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in Somalia recognised humanitarian workers who continue to serve vulnerable communities despite growing security challenges.

“Today, we celebrate humanitarian workers serving across Somalia, often in difficult and insecure environments, to help those most in need,” OCHA Somalia said.

UN figures indicate that food insecurity and malnutrition remain serious concerns across Somalia.

An estimated six million people, equivalent to 31 per cent of the country’s population, were facing critical levels of food insecurity between April and June 2026.

Children have been among the hardest hit, with about 1.9 million children facing acute malnutrition.

Of this number, nearly 493,000 children are experiencing severe acute malnutrition and require urgent treatment and humanitarian support.

The situation in Burhakaba District in the Bay region has raised particular concern, with communities facing the risk of famine if conditions deteriorate further and humanitarian assistance is not increased.

The crisis has been compounded by funding shortages affecting humanitarian operations.

UN agencies say more than 500 health and nutrition facilities have closed across Somalia due to a lack of funding.

The closures are placing additional pressure on communities that rely on humanitarian assistance for essential services, particularly in areas affected by drought, conflict and displacement.

Beyond funding challenges, the safety of humanitarian workers has also become a major concern.

OCHA says 82 humanitarian workers have been killed, 97 injured and 39 kidnapped worldwide in 2026.

More than 1,000 aid workers have been killed since 2023.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for greater protection of humanitarian personnel so they can continue reaching people affected by crises.

“Serving others has become more dangerous than ever,” Guterres said.

World Humanitarian Day is observed every year on August 19 to honour humanitarian workers who provide assistance to communities affected by conflict, disasters and other emergencies.

The day also commemorates the 22 humanitarian workers who were killed in the bombing of the Canal Hotel in Baghdad, Iraq, in 2003.

In Somalia, this year’s observance comes as humanitarian needs continue to rise while resources available to respond to the crisis remain limited.

Humanitarian organisations continue to work with the Somali government to reach communities affected by drought, hunger, conflict and displacement.

The United Nations has warned that without adequate funding and a secure operating environment for aid workers, efforts to reach millions of people in need could face further setbacks.

Manchester United closing in on Carlos Baleba transfer

By
Newton Ingui
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MANCHESTER, UK — Manchester United are closing in on an agreement with Brighton & Hove Albion to sign 22-year-old midfielder Carlos Baleba. Negotiators are working to finalize a deal worth approximately £65 million (£60 million guaranteed plus £5 million in add-ons).

Manchester United’s initial package totals £65 million. While the offer sits slightly below Brighton’s original valuation, negotiations between both Premier League clubs remain amicable as they finalize the final terms.

A five-year contract has already been agreed upon between Manchester United and the Cameroon international, following long-standing interest that dates back to last summer.

Manchester United are preparing to schedule formal medical tests as soon as club-to-club paperwork is finalized.

Baleba is set to become Michael Carrick’s third major midfield signing of the summer transfer window, following the arrivals of Youri Tielemans (from Aston Villa) and Andrey Santos (from Chelsea).  

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