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Senate calls for suspension of Sh80 billion Nairobi Cooperation deal

By
Binti Wangila
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The Senate has recommended the temporary suspension of an Sh80 billion cooperation agreement between the National Government and the Nairobi County Government, citing constitutional and governance concerns.

In a report tabled before Parliament, the Senate Standing Committee on Devolution and Intergovernmental Relations said the agreement appears to transfer some county functions to the National Government under Article 187 of the Constitution while presenting the arrangement as ordinary intergovernmental cooperation under Article 189.

The committee has recommended that implementation of the agreement be halted until the concerns raised are addressed and a comprehensive report submitted within 60 days.

Senators argued that the governance structure outlined in the agreement grants National Government representatives significant authority over policy and project oversight, while Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja would only chair the implementation committee.

The committee also questioned the source of the Sh80 billion funding, noting that the agreement itself does not specify where the money will come from or how it will be managed.

In addition, senators criticised the allocation of Sh270 million for Nairobi road improvements through a National Government agency instead of channeling the funds directly to the county government.

The report further faulted the public participation process, saying it was conducted after the agreement had already been signed, contrary to constitutional requirements.

Defending the agreement before the committee, Governor Johnson Sakaja said Nairobi faces unique challenges as Kenya’s capital city and economic hub.

“Nairobi cannot be compared with other counties. We serve more than seven million people, and the Sh33.8 billion equitable share together with our own-source revenue is simply not enough to meet the city’s growing needs,” Sakaja said.

He cited a proposed Sh50 billion Nairobi River sewerage project as an example of infrastructure that the county could not finance without support from the National Government.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi dismissed claims that the agreement undermines devolution.

“The National Government has no intention of weakening devolution. Our objective is to accelerate infrastructure development and improve services in densely populated areas such as Kibera, Mathare and Kasarani,” Mudavadi said.

The Senate is expected to debate the committee’s recommendations and make a final decision next week.

Teachers to receive salary increase starting this month

By
Binti Wangila
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Teachers across Kenya will begin receiving higher salaries starting with this month’s payroll after the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) implemented the second phase of the 2025–2029 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

The revised salary scales, which took effect on July 1, 2026, will increase teachers’ monthly earnings by up to Sh2,055 depending on their job grade, with teachers in grades C2 and C3 receiving the highest adjustments.

In a circular dated July 16, the TSC directed all County Directors of Education to immediately implement the new salary scales, which will remain in force until June 30, 2027.

According to the Commission, all teachers employed by July 1, 2026, will benefit from the salary review except intern teachers. Existing allowances, including house allowance, hardship allowance, commuter allowance, annual leave allowance and disability guide allowance, will remain unchanged.

Under the new structure, Chief Principals in Grade D5 will earn between Sh133,351 and Sh164,977 per month, while other senior school administrators and classroom teachers will also move to higher salary bands in line with the agreement.

Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Deputy Secretary General Hesbon Otieno welcomed the salary increase but said more still needs to be done.

“This increment is a positive step and will provide some relief to teachers struggling with the high cost of living. However, it is still not sufficient to fully address the challenges facing teachers,” Otieno said.

He added that KNUT will continue pushing for shorter CBA cycles to allow more frequent negotiations on salaries and welfare.

“Beyond salaries, the government must address teacher shortages, delayed promotions, better medical cover and improved working conditions if the profession is to attract and retain qualified educators,” he said.

Teacher unions say that while the salary review is a welcome development, addressing broader welfare concerns remains essential to improving the quality of education and retaining experienced teachers in Kenya.

US launches ninth night of strikes on Iran following troop casualties

By
Newton Ingui
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US President Donald Trump said the country’s military attacked Iran again overnight. He reported that the strikes were in retaliation for US troops killed a few days ago in retaliatory attacks launched by Iran.

Trump told journalists in Washington upon returning from the World Cup finals that the US is targeting Iran to honor three soldiers who lost their lives in action. These soldiers include one who died on Saturday in Iraq from an explosion while defusing an Iranian drone.

The US Central Command in the Middle East stated that it carried out strikes inside Iran, targeting the country’s coastal areas and its defense systems.

It added that the objective of the strikes—now entering their ninth day—is to weaken Iran’s capability to control the Strait of Hormuz.

Mungatana Rallies Tana River Residents to Turn National IDs into Votes

By
Vincent Amara
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Tana River Senator Dr. Danson Mungatana has issued an urgent call to action for local residents, revealing that a significant portion of the population holds national identity cards but remains unregistered as voters. Speaking during a massive civic sensitization rally at Gamba in the Garsen Constituency, the Senator emphasized that thousands of eligible citizens risk being disenfranchised in upcoming elections if they fail to register with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

The high-level political mobilization brought together prominent Coast region leaders to push for maximum voter registration compliance across Tana River County.

Leaders highlighted that holding a national identity card is only the first step, urging residents to complete their voter registration to ensure their voices are heard in key electoral decisions.

This united regional front featured top political figures, including Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, Cabinet Secretaries Salim Mvurya and Hassan Joho, Members of Parliament Hon. Ashaka and Hon. Yakub, alongside the Tana River County Assembly Speaker and local Members of the County Assembly.Together, they underlined the strategic importance of civic participation and political representation for the region.

Civic leaders at the gathering noted that high voter turnout and comprehensive registration are vital for securing adequate development allocations, public infrastructure projects, and proper political representation for Tana River County.

Senator Mungatana reaffirmed his commitment to conducting continuous civic awareness campaigns across all constituencies to ensure every eligible resident, particularly young adults who recently acquired national IDs, is registered ahead of the next general election.

Murkomen Rallies Religious Leaders in Trans-Nzoia, Calls for Unity and an End to Political Incitement

By
Vincent Amara
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Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Interior and National Administration Onesimus Kipchumba Murkomen has urged political and religious leaders across the country to reject political incitement and foster peaceful coexistence among citizens, emphasizing that national unity is critical to driving Kenya’s development agenda.

Speaking during an Interdenominational Prayer and Thanksgiving Service at St. John ACK Kwanza Parish in Trans-Nzoia County, Murkomen highlighted the pivotal role played by faith-based institutions in shaping national values. He commended local congregations for coming together across various denominations to model togetherness and spiritual alignment.

“As leaders, we must reject political incitement and promote peace and unity,” Murkomen stated. “Likewise, the Church should continue to stand together in guiding our nation towards reconciliation, development, and the common good.”

The high-profile service drew key government officials, parliamentary representatives, and local administrators. Among the leaders in attendance were Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei, Administration Police Service Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli, Trans-Nzoia Senator Allan Chesang,

Kiminini Member of Parliament Kakai Bisau, and Endebess MP Robert Pukose. Former West Pokot Governor John Lunyangapuo, Trans-Nzoia County Commissioner Hussein Alaso, and various Members of County Assembly (MCAs) were also present.

Murkomen expressed appreciation to the leadership of Trans-Nzoia for fostering an environment where different religious groups can unite for communal prayers. He noted that such joint services set an essential baseline for political and social tolerance, urging other regions to emulate the spiritual fellowship displayed at Kwanza.

The call for peace comes as public officials continue nationwide engagements aimed at reinforcing local security measures, enhancing public participation, and strengthening community-police relations across counties.

Mungatana, Kagwe launch digital livestock IDs to curb theft

By
Vincent Amara
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Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, alongside Tana River Senator Dr. Danson Mungatana, has officially launched a nationwide digital livestock registration program during a public event in Hurara.

This initiative introduces digital identification for livestock across Kenya to modernize animal resource management and enhance security for pastoralists and farmers alike.

The national digital registration scheme is designed to address longstanding challenges in Kenya’s agricultural and livestock sectors through three primary advantages.

First, it aims to eliminate cattle rustling by assigning each animal a unique digital ID that links it directly to its rightful owner, making stolen livestock easily traceable and resolving ownership disputes.

Second, the system will streamline disease control by tracking livestock health history and movement patterns on a digital platform.

This enables veterinary and agricultural authorities to monitor disease outbreaks in real time and deliver prompt, effective treatments to affected herds.

Finally, the scheme will expand meat market access by establishing verified records for animal health and origin.

These traceable credentials build trust with commercial buyers and food processors, helping local pastoralists and farmers gain broader access to both regional and international meat markets.

Overall, this nationwide digital tracking system represents a significant step toward transforming Kenya’s livestock industry, securing community livelihoods, and building a more reliable supply chain for the nation’s meat sector.

Prime cabinets Secretary Musalia Mudavadi rallies Westlands leaders ahead of 2027

By
Vincent Amara
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Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi convened a strategic high-level engagement with grassroots leaders from Westlands Constituency including aspiring Members of Parliament (MPs), aspiring Members of County Assembly (MCAs), and key community representatives to establish a unified direction for the region and the nation.

At the heart of the discussions was a shared conviction that strong grassroots leadership forms the bedrock of a thriving democracy.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Mudavadi emphasized that when local leaders unite around a shared vision, communities are far better positioned to influence national policy and shape their own economic future through active civic participation.

To translate this vision into action, the leaders pledged to launch comprehensive voter registration drives across Westlands Constituency, ensuring maximum civic turnout and youth participation ahead of the 2027 General Election.

In addition to voter mobilization, the delegation formally affirmed its joint commitment to supporting H.E. President William Samoei Ruto’s re-election campaign. The leaders emphasized their overarching goal of delivering a peaceful, transparent, and petition-free electoral process in 2027 that reinforces stability and public trust.

Furthermore, the meeting highlighted the strategic necessity of political solidarity within the Mulembe community, with Prime Cabinet Secretary Mudavadi noting that a cohesive regional voice is essential for securing strong national representation, driving sustainable development, and unlocking socio-economic opportunities for all Kenyans.

Kindiki preaches humility in Embu, recalls 2013 Uhuru-Ruto comeback amid political storms

By
Vincent Amara
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Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has called for humility, patience, and national unity in the face of heightened political turbulence within the governing coalition, reminding supporters that political fortunes can shift rapidly.

Speaking at the Kigari Teachers Training College in Manyatta Constituency during the official opening of a new administration block and a brief commemoration of the ACK Diocese of Embu’s 36th anniversary, the Deputy President struck a reflective tone.

While acknowledging the decades-long contribution of the church in health, education, and youth empowerment, his message centered on political resilience and divine providence.

Addressing congregants following recent political setbacks including the ruling coalition’s loss in the Ol Kalou by-election Kindiki reflected on his more than two decades in public life, pointing to past political battles as proof that early predictions often fall short.

He specifically recalled the 2013 General Election when political commentators widely wrote off the ticket of Uhuru Kenyatta and William Ruto due to their ongoing cases at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague.

“Many people told us, ‘You are finished.’ But God surprised everybody,” Kindiki told the congregation. “Those who were beating their chests were humbled, and Kenyans elected them.”

Warning against political arrogance and division within Mt Kenya, the Deputy President emphasized that power ultimately rests with the electorate and divine guidance. He maintained that leaders will ultimately be evaluated on their track record of service delivery rather than political rhetoric, expressing confidence that the administration will navigate its current political headwinds successfully.

SPAIN CROWNED WORLD CHAMPIONS AFTER EXTRA-TIME DRAMA AGAINST 10-MAN ARGENTINA

By
Newton Ingui
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La Roja are on top of the world once again. In a grueling, high-stakes clash at MetLife Stadium, Spain captured their second FIFA World Cup title with a dramatic 1-0 extra-time victory over defending champions Argentina.

Substitute Ferran Torres turned into the national hero, breaking a stubborn Argentine deadlock in the 106th minute to send Spain into total delirium. With this historic win, Spain matches their 2010 glory and cements their status as the absolute dominant force in modern football.

From the opening whistle, the final transformed into a stark clash of styles. Spain controlled the tempo, passing with trademark composure and pinning the South American champions deep into their own half. Luis de la Fuente’s men unleashed a relentless barrage of attacks, registering 15 shots in regulation time alone.

However, Argentina’s defensive unit refused to break easily. Standing tallest was goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez, who put on a historic, masterclass performance between the sticks. Martínez made an astonishing 11 saves—the most ever recorded in a World Cup final—single-handedly keeping a frustrated Argentine side alive.

As the match ticked into second-half injury time with the score still locked at 0-0, the structural integrity of Argentina’s gameplan collapsed. Midfielder Enzo Fernández received a quick second yellow card for a reckless challenge on Spain’s young defender Pau Cubarsí, reducing La Albiceleste to 10 men right before the extra-time period.

Down a player, Argentina retreated even deeper, desperately trying to survive the extra 30 minutes to force a penalty shootout.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the first minute of the second period of extra time. Pedro Porro and Lamine Yamal combined effectively on the right wing before a bouncing ball fell perfectly into the box. Ferran Torres pounced, driving a crisp, left-footed half-volley just under the crossbar past the otherwise unbeatable Martínez.

Argentina threw numbers forward in a frantic final ten minutes, generating their first and only shot of the match in the 116th minute when Lionel Messi fired a powerful effort into the face of Mikel Merino. A late heroic block by Cubarsí extinguished Argentina’s final hope, sealing the historic win for Spain.

The heartbreaking defeat likely marks the final chapter of Lionel Messi’s legendary World Cup career. The 39-year-old icon was noticeably isolated throughout the match, starved of service as Argentina focused entirely on absorbing heavy Spanish pressure. While hundreds of thousands of devastated Argentine fans gathered in New York’s Times Square and Buenos Aires to process the end of an era, Spain’s youthful generation—led by the brilliant Lamine Yamal—began a new reign over global football.

Tullow oil exits Kenya’s Turkana oil project after $9 million deal with Auron Energy

By
Leah Kawon
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British oil explorer Tullow Oil has formally ended its remaining financial interests in Kenya’s Turkana oil project after agreeing to receive an additional $9 million (approximately KSh1.16 billion) from Auron Energy E&P Limited, an affiliate of Gulf Energy.

The agreement, announced on Friday, marks the final phase of Tullow’s withdrawal from Kenya’s oil sector. Under the deal, Tullow will surrender its rights to future royalty payments from Kenya’s oil production as well as its option to re-enter the South Lokichar oil project with a 30 percent stake.

In return, the company will receive the additional payment, which is expected to be completed by July 17, 2026.

The transaction further strengthens Auron Energy’s position in the South Lokichar project, which hosts Kenya’s commercially viable oil reserves, while bringing to an end Tullow’s remaining financial interests in the development.

Tullow Chief Executive Officer Ian Perks said the agreement would enable the company to receive cash sooner while simplifying its portfolio and improving its financial position.

“This agreement allows us to accelerate the receipt of cash while simplifying our portfolio as we continue to strengthen our balance sheet,” Perks said.

The latest deal follows Tullow’s sale of its Kenyan subsidiary, Tullow Kenya BV, to Auron Energy in 2025. Under that agreement, Auron Energy committed to acquiring the business for a minimum consideration of $120 million, with payments structured in three phases.

The first tranche of $40 million was paid upon completion of the transaction in September 2025, while the second $40 million was released in March 2026 after approval of the Field Development Plan. The final $40 million remains payable by June 30, 2033, subject to conditions outlined in the original agreement.

Before the latest transaction, Tullow retained rights to receive royalties of $0.50 per barrel from a significant portion of future oil production from the Turkana project. The company also held an option to reacquire a 30 percent stake in future development activities.

Those rights have now been permanently relinquished in exchange for the additional payment.

The agreement does not affect ownership of Kenya’s oil resources or the South Lokichar oil project. Instead, it transfers Tullow’s remaining financial interests to Auron Energy, giving the company greater control over the project’s future development.

Tullow discovered commercially viable oil in the South Lokichar Basin in Turkana County in 2012, placing Kenya at the centre of efforts to become an oil-producing nation.

Although commercial oil production has not yet commenced, the South Lokichar project remains Kenya’s flagship oil development initiative.

The latest agreement represents the final step in Tullow Oil’s exit from Kenya’s oil sector, with Auron Energy now assuming the interests previously retained by the British explorer in the South Lokichar project.

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