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NDMA Launches Sh130.8M Drought Resilience Campaign Led by Athlete Daniel Ebenyo

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The National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) has launched a Sh130.8 million fundraising campaign to finance community-led drought resilience projects across Samburu, Isiolo, Laikipia, and Meru counties.

The initiative is spearheaded by elite long-distance runner Daniel Ebenyo, who has been appointed goodwill ambassador for the NDMA Road Race for Peace and Resilience 2026, scheduled for August 8 in Archers Post, Samburu County.

The inaugural race aims to unite government agencies, development partners, the private sector, and athletes to fund four critical grassroots projects. These interventions—focusing on water access, ecosystem restoration, climate-resilient livelihoods, and peacebuilding—are expected to benefit over 30,000 people and 50,000 livestock.

For Ebenyo, who was raised in Baragoi, Samburu County, the campaign is deeply personal. He recalled walking 24 kilometers daily to school while navigating drought and insecurity before athletics paved his path forward.

“This road race is about much more than running. It is about ensuring that future generations spend their time learning rather than walking long distances for water,” Ebenyo said. “Together, we can help communities access water… and ensure the next generation grows up with more opportunities than we had.”

To formalize his role, Ebenyo signed the Road Race Ambassador Commitment Charter, pledging to champion drought resilience and peace.

NDMA Chief Executive Officer Lt Col (Rtd) Hared Adan emphasized that the campaign represents a strategic shift from reactive disaster response to proactive, long-term resilience.

“We are trying to bring together communities in the four counties,” Adan noted. “This region has experienced insecurity for many years but, once they come together for sports, it will promote peace.”

He added: “Building resilience is a shared responsibility that demands leadership from government, investment from the private sector, support from development partners and active participation by communities and every Kenyan.”

NDMA Board Chairman Shallow Yahya added that Ebenyo’s journey perfectly embodies the spirit of the initiative:

“Daniel Ebenyo’s life story mirrors the resilience we seek to build. His journey reminds us that resilience can transform lives when opportunity meets determination.”

Spain qualifies to the world cup finals after defeating France 2:0

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Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro, coupled with a near-perfect defensive masterclass, helped Spain smother the star-studded France and reach the World Cup final for just the second time. The last time they got there, they won the trophy

Spain have sealed a spot in the FIFA World Cup final after comprehensively defeating France 2-0 in the first semi-final at Dallas. This will be only the second time Spain play a FIFA World Cup final, 16 years after their first appearance. They will await the winner of the second semi-final between Argentina and England tomorrow.

Pedro Porro had doubled Spain’s lead against France in the second half after Mikel Oyarzabal had given them a 1-0 lead in the first half. Oyarzabal had scored in the 22nd minute from the penalty spot after Lucas Digne brought Lamine Yamal down in the penalty box with a reckless swing of the leg.

Things went from bad to worse for France as central defence mainstay William Saliba soon hobbled off injured. Yamal had also put the ball into the French net, only to see the linesman raise the offside flag.

Kenyan Security Forces Neutralize 11 Al-Shabaab Militants Near Somalia Border

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Eleven Al-Shabaab militants were killed during a major intelligence-led security operation targeting a terrorist hideout in the Esagur Cutline area, near the Kenya-Somalia border.

The raid, executed by the Special Operations Group (SOG) with aerial support, targeted a makeshift camp where approximately 30 militants had gathered. According to security sources, intelligence indicated the group was finalizing plans for an assault on a border village in Mandera County when the forces struck.

In addition to the 11 militants killed, seven others sustained severe injuries, while the remaining fighters fled across the border into Somalia. Security forces recovered a significant cache of weapons, including three machine guns and over 400 rounds of ammunition, dealing a substantial blow to the group’s operational capacity.

Investigators also seized key documents, including religious tax receipts used by Al-Shabaab to extort levies from residents in territory under its control. Security officials noted that these documents provide further evidence of the group’s highly organized administrative and taxation systems, which are used to fund operations and procure supplies. The intelligence gathered from these materials is expected to bolster ongoing investigations into Al-Shabaab’s financial networks, logistics, and planned incursions into Kenya.

This successful raid is part of intensified counterterrorism efforts by Kenyan security agencies to dismantle active cells along the porous border. Authorities reiterated their commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations to preempt cross-border threats, disrupt terrorist networks, and ensure the safety of residents in Mandera County and the wider northeastern region.

Massive Police Deployment Mobilized to Safeguard High-Stakes Ol Kalou By-Election

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The National Police Service has deployed a robust contingent of over 1,000 officers, four water cannons, and specialized tactical units to secure Thursday’s highly anticipated Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election. This decisive security operation comes in response to escalating political tensions, widespread allegations of voter bribery, and isolated incidents of violence ahead of the mini-poll.

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, speaking during a joint briefing with the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), assured residents of an uncompromised environment to exercise their democratic franchise. “Our primary objective is to ensure that the citizens of Ol Kalou can exercise their constitutional right to vote in an atmosphere that is transparent, peaceful, and entirely free from intimidation,” Kanja stated. This heightened security presence is intended to restore confidence as rival political factions continue to trade accusations of electoral malpractice and voter intimidation.

To guarantee seamless security coverage, a highly structured, multi-layered strategy has been set in motion. At least two police officers will be permanently stationed at each of the constituency’s 114 polling centers to protect voting materials, election officials, and the voting process. Additionally, a standby tactical response team consisting of at least fourteen officers will be assigned to every station, positioned to intervene immediately in the event of any security disruption.

The security apparatus has been further reinforced by specialized paramilitary units. The Inspector General announced the strategic mobilization of four platoons from both the General Service Unit (GSU) and the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), alongside four water cannons to manage any potential public order disturbances. “This extensive and strategic deployment is meticulously planned to provide comprehensive coverage and maintain absolute public safety throughout the voting period,” Kanja emphasized.

Simultaneously, investigative and intelligence units are actively monitoring the ground. Personnel from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have been deployed to gather intelligence and investigate electoral offenses, focusing heavily on voter bribery and political violence. Commenting on their mandate, Kanja noted, “The DCI will focus intensively on intelligence gathering and swift investigations, ensuring that any individuals or groups engaging in electoral misconduct are promptly arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

In tandem with these security measures, the IEBC has finalized its logistical preparations. To protect ballot secrecy, the commission has instituted a strict ban on mobile phones inside voting booths and warned that any candidate or supporter violating campaign deadlines or the Electoral Code of Conduct will face immediate prosecution. Kanja urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement and turn out to vote peacefully, reassuring the public that local business and transport operations would continue without disruption. “The National Police Service remains steadfast in its duty to safeguard this election, ensuring a secure environment where the democratic will of the Ol Kalou electorate can be realized in peace,” Kanja concluded.

NTSA urges vehicle owners to collect physical logbooks before deadline

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The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has urged motor vehicle owners to collect their printed physical logbooks, warning that only five months remain before the deadline expires.

In a public reminder issued on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, the Authority referenced an earlier notice published on June 11, 2026, informing vehicle owners that logbooks left uncollected for more than six months will be disposed of in accordance with NTSA policy.

“It is five months to the deadline and we urge all motor vehicle owners who still have their logbooks at NTSA offices to collect them as soon as possible to avoid any inconveniences,” the Authority said.

NTSA warned that motorists who fail to collect their logbooks may be unable to access services that require submission of the current or original logbook as part of the application process.

The Authority emphasized that collection of physical logbooks is free of charge. Vehicle owners are required to present their previous logbook together with a valid identification document at any NTSA office or Huduma Centre for verification.
“Collection of logbooks is free.

Carry the previous logbook and present your identification document at the collection centre/NTSA office for verification purposes,” NTSA stated.

The Authority also reminded the public that all NTSA offices operate from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and encouraged motorists to collect their documents promptly to avoid disruptions when seeking transport-related services.

Vehicle owners can also check the status of uncollected logbooks, driving licences and number plates through NTSA’s service status platform or seek assistance at NTSA offices and Huduma Centres.

​Catholic Diocese of Maralal suspends seven Priests in major governance shake-up

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In a major shake-up signaling a strict stance on Church governance, the Catholic Diocese of Maralal has suspended seven priests over serious allegations of misconduct. The accusations leveled against the clergy members include corruption, nepotism, violations of Canon Law, and significant breaches of standard Church governance protocols.

​The affected clerics Rev. Fr. Letikirich, Rev. Fr. Dida, Rev. Fr. Maina, Rev. Fr. Nderitu, Rev. Fr. Namoni, Rev. Fr. Stephen Lekasuiyan, and Rev. Fr. Musau have been officially stripped of their active duties. 

According to an official communiqué issued by Rt. Rev. Bishop Hieronymus Emusugut Joya, the priests are barred from exercising all priestly and pastoral functions. 

This suspension will remain in effect pending the conclusion of ecclesiastical disciplinary proceedings and any related legal processes.

​To ensure uninterrupted pastoral services and to strengthen administrative stability during this transition, Bishop Joya also announced a series of immediate parish appointments. Under the new restructuring, Rev. Fr. Dominic Lesayon steps in as the Assistant Parish Priest of Maralal Cathedral Parish, while Rev. Fr. Albert Letaon has been appointed Director of the St. Joseph Allamano Pastoral Centre and Radio Mchungaji.

​Furthermore, new leadership has been assigned to local parishes to maintain continuity for the congregation. Rev. Fr. Solomon Ebei and Rev. Fr. Marko Lopetet will serve as Parish Priest and Assistant Parish Priest, respectively, at St. Matthew Lodokejek Parish. 

Rounding out the administrative changes, Rev. Fr. Ambrose Lepartingat has been named the new Parish Priest for Christ the Risen Lord Morijo Parish.

Activist Boniface Mwangi warns EAC integration at risk over rising dictatorship

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Activist Boniface Mwangi with Sifa FM breakfast show presenter Lion Obimbo

Renowned Kenyan human rights activist Boniface Mwangi has warned that the East African Community (EAC) integration process is in severe jeopardy. Speaking in an exclusive interview with Sifa FM, Mwangi pointed out that human rights are consistently violated across the region, claiming that current heads of state are increasingly governing their nations through dictatorial methods.

According to Mwangi, fighting for human rights is a noble calling that must be respected by all political leaders across the continent. He emphasized that governments should never deploy excessive force against their citizens, sending a direct message to Kenyan security agencies to strictly uphold and respect human rights.

The activist took a sharp aim at the police department, accusing it of failing to discharge its duties professionally. Mwangi alleged that security officers are routinely misused by those in power to suppress and oppress ordinary citizens instead of protecting them.

Commenting on the government’s recent financial compensation offered to victims of state violence, Mwangi stated that money cannot replace or heal the pain of families who lost their loved ones. He urged the state to focus on permanently ending violence through peaceful means and ensuring that the fundamental grievances of Kenyans are genuinely addressed.

Looking ahead to his political ambitions, Mwangi confirmed his intention to run for the presidency. He declared that his primary goal is to provide leadership that will decisively eradicate graft. In a bold policy statement, the activist-turned-politician asserted that under his administration, individuals convicted of corruption would face the death penalty by hanging.

Mwangi maintained that Kenya is a wealthy nation with more than enough financial resources to sustain itself, identifying deep-rooted corruption as the country’s single biggest hurdle.

To solve the rampant unemployment crisis, Mwangi promised that his government would prioritize rapid industrialization to create manufacturing jobs for the youth. He firmly stated that Kenya has the capacity to run its economy efficiently without relying on expensive foreign loans.

Furthermore, the presidential hopeful highlighted that Kenya is blessed with highly fertile agricultural land capable of achieving complete food security. If elected, he promised to implement a strategic zoning plan that clearly separates land for large scale agriculture from land meant for housing and urban development.

One killed, another injured in Moyale gold mine attack

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One person was killed and another seriously injured after being ambushed by unknown gunmen at Tessum Qalicha in the Dabel area of Moyale Sub-County, Marsabit County.

Marsabit County Police Commander Leonard Kimaiyo confirmed the nighttime incident, stating that the two victims were riding a motorcycle toward the Hillo Tanzania gold mining area when they were attacked.

The deceased has been identified as 21-year-old Dayyo Adan Abdulahi, who died on the spot after sustaining a gunshot wound to the left side of his chest. The body has since been moved to the Moyale County Referral Hospital mortuary.

The motorcycle rider, identified as Abdi Aziz Noor, suffered a gunshot wound to the stomach. He was rushed to the Moyale County Referral Hospital, where he is currently undergoing treatment.

According to Police Commander Kimaiyo, the attackers stole a gold detector that was in the victims’ possession before fleeing the scene. Authorities have launched investigations into the deadly ambush, though no arrests have been made yet.

Kenya Red Cross assesses needs at Kakitetei ECDE centre

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Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) Turkana Branch official

The Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) Turkana Branch conducted a needs assessment at Kakitetei ECDE Centre in Napeitom Ward, Turkana East, after concerns were raised about pupils learning under trees and in harsh environmental conditions.

The visit, led by Turkana Branch Coordinator Rukia Abubakar and her team, brought together teachers and residents of Kakitetei Village to discuss the challenges affecting the community and identify areas where humanitarian support may be needed.

During the engagement, the KRCS team gathered information to assess the community’s priority needs, with discussions focusing on inadequate learning infrastructure, water scarcity and food insecurity.

Residents welcomed the visit, describing it as an important step toward addressing long-standing challenges facing the area. They said the engagement provided an opportunity to share their concerns directly with the humanitarian organization.

Residents also thanked the Kenya Red Cross Society for taking time to visit Kakitetei and listen to their concerns, saying the visit had renewed hope among families who have long felt neglected.

The community appealed for continued support to improve access to quality education, clean water and other essential services in Kakitetei, Suguta Sub-County, and the wider Turkana East Constituency.

While no immediate interventions were announced during the visit, residents expressed optimism that the assessment would inform future humanitarian interventions aimed at improving living conditions and creating a better learning environment for children in the area.

Kenya and China deepen trade ties as over 100 firms gather in Nairobi for commodity exhibition

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More than 100 companies from Kenya and China converged at the Sarit Expo Centre for the 3rd China (Linyi)-Kenya International Commodity Exhibition, one of the region’s largest platforms for cross-border trade, in a fresh sign of strengthening commercial ties between the two nations.

The four-day event, brought together more than 100 manufacturers and exporters from Linyi City in China’s Shandong Province alongside ten Kenyan enterprises. Organizers describe it as a strategic meeting point for business partnerships, distributorship deals, technology transfer and investment, with thousands of products on display spanning household commodities, construction materials, industrial machinery, automotive parts, agricultural equipment, livestock technology and green energy solutions.

The 3rd China (Linyi)-Kenya International Commodity Exhibition was held at a time when global supply chains continue to shift, with trade fairs increasingly serving as key links between manufacturers, distributors, investors and entrepreneurs.

Speaking at the opening of the exhibition, Zhang Dong, President of the Shandong Chamber of Commerce in Kenya, said the gathering reflects how far economic cooperation between the two countries has come.

“This exhibition is more than a display of products, it is a bridge connecting businesses, industries and people,” Zhang told attendees, adding that Kenya remains “one of East Africa’s most important commercial gateways” while China stays committed to deepening practical cooperation in trade, investment and technology exchange.

Zhang said the fair gives Kenyan businesses a rare direct line to manufacturers from Linyi City, which he described as one of China’s leading industrial and wholesale trading hubs, known for producing household goods, construction materials, machinery, automotive products and consumer commodities that are exported worldwide. He argued that as trade between the two countries expands, the exhibition offers Kenyan importers, wholesalers, distributors and retailers a chance to build direct relationships with Chinese manufacturers — a move he said would cut supply chain costs while widening the range of products available to consumers.

“Business relationships are built through trust and direct engagement,” Zhang said, pointing to matchmaking sessions held on the sidelines of the exhibition. He said organizers expect the sessions to translate into new distributorship agreements, investment partnerships and long-term commercial collaborations benefiting firms from both countries.

Household commodities and consumer goods make up one of the exhibition’s largest segments, with Chinese exhibitors showcasing home appliances, kitchenware, furniture, hardware, lighting products and home improvement materials aimed at Kenya’s growing middle-income market. The fair has also placed a spotlight on industrial machinery and equipment, giving Kenyan manufacturers a look at technology that organizers say could help modernize local production and support the country’s broader industrialization push.

Agriculture featured prominently among the sectors on display, with exhibitors presenting modern farm machinery, irrigation systems, agro-processing equipment and livestock technologies. The participation of the Kenya National Farmers’ Federation (KENAFF) and the Kenya Veterinary Association (KVA) underscored growing collaboration in mechanization, livestock development and agribusiness partnerships between the two countries.

Enock Mutai, Member Services and Project Officer at KENAFF, said access to modern agricultural technology remains central to improving the competitiveness of Kenyan farmers.

“Mechanization is essential if Kenya is to transform its agricultural sector,” Mutai said, noting that the exhibition gives farmers, cooperatives and agribusinesses a chance to engage directly with manufacturers of modern equipment and processing solutions that could raise productivity, cut post-harvest losses and boost incomes.

Mutai also pointed to new trade opportunities opening up for Kenyan exporters following a decision under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) framework to grant zero-tariff treatment to 98.2 percent of Kenyan tariff lines. He said that as Chinese demand grows for Kenyan coffee, tea, avocados, macadamia nuts and other horticultural produce, further investment in mechanization, quality standards and value addition would be needed for Kenyan producers to fully capitalize on the expanding market.

Beyond agriculture, the exhibition has also showcased recent developments in electric vehicles, battery technology and renewable energy, areas organizers say point to further cooperation in sustainable transport and green industrial development between the two countries.

Organizers say they expect the exhibition to yield new commercial agreements, investment commitments and technology partnerships, while reinforcing Nairobi’s role as a gateway to markets in East and Central Africa.