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World Bank: Corruption is denying Kenyans essential public services

By
Binti Wangila
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The World Bank has urged Kenya to fast-track sweeping anti-corruption reforms, warning that billions of shillings lost through corruption and weak public financial controls continue to deny citizens access to quality healthcare, education and infrastructure.

The warning comes after the World Bank approved a new lending programme for Kenya, having delayed its approval over concerns about the slow implementation of governance and anti-corruption reforms.

Speaking during the release of the World Bank’s latest Kenya Economic Update on Thursday, World Bank Country Director for Kenya Qimiao Fan said tackling corruption is critical to restoring public confidence and ensuring public resources are used for their intended purpose.

“Every shilling lost to weak controls, to corruption, to poor procurement means a shilling not going to schools, roads or health clinics,” Fan said.

Corruption remains one of Kenya’s biggest governance challenges, ranging from petty bribery to multi-billion-shilling procurement scandals. The issue has also fuelled growing public dissatisfaction, culminating in the nationwide anti-government protests witnessed in 2024.

According to the World Bank, Kenya must implement four key governance reforms to strengthen accountability and improve public financial management. These include stricter conflict-of-interest rules for public officials, the rollout of a fully electronic procurement system to enhance transparency in government tenders, the establishment of a Single Treasury Account to improve oversight of public finances, and the enactment of the long-delayed Whistleblower Protection Bill.

While acknowledging progress in some areas, Fan noted that implementing the conflict-of-interest regulations and securing parliamentary approval for the whistleblower legislation could face political resistance.

However, he stressed that the reforms are necessary to rebuild public trust and support sustainable economic growth.

“The 2024 protests showed that Kenyans are demanding fair and transparent fiscal management that delivers quality public services,” Fan said.

He added:

“You can’t ask citizens to tighten their belts without proof that the money they contribute through taxes is being managed honestly, efficiently and for the public good.”

The World Bank’s latest economic update indicates that Kenya’s economy expanded by 4.6 per cent but continues to face significant challenges, including a heavy public debt burden, limited formal employment opportunities and rising poverty.

The report further warns that increasing global fuel and food prices, partly driven by the conflict in the Middle East, may have pushed an additional one million Kenyans below the poverty line.

The World Bank says strengthening governance, improving transparency and accelerating anti-corruption reforms will be critical in ensuring public resources are directed towards essential services while supporting Kenya’s long-term economic recovery and inclusive growth.

Tenwek shock Rift Valley giants as new champions emerge at 2026 RVSSSA games

By
Denilson Muhando
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Tenwek High School stunned the Rift Valley region after defeating Menengai High School 3-2 to win the boys’ football title for the first time in the school’s history, headlining a dramatic finale to the 2026 Rift Valley Secondary Schools Sports Association (RVSSSA) Games at William Ole Ntimama Stadium in Narok County on Friday, July 10.

The historic triumph marked one of the biggest upsets of the tournament, as Tenwek dethroned some of the region’s football powerhouses on their way to the championship. The Bomet County side completed a remarkable campaign after overcoming Wareng High School before eliminating three-time national champions Laiser Hill Academy in the quarter-finals and eventually edging Menengai High School in a thrilling final.

An emotional Tenwek captain, Sapuro Mero, described the victory as a dream come true for the school.

“We are very happy to have qualified for the national championships for the first time in our history, and we promise to perform even better there. I am proud to be the first captain to lead Tenwek High School to the national stage.”

Head coach Nelson Nyongesa praised his players for believing in themselves despite arriving at the tournament as underdogs.

“I am extremely happy because we came here as underdogs. We lost our first match, but I promised the boys that we would bounce back and perform well. They believed in themselves, and today we have achieved something special.”

The day’s surprises extended beyond the boys’ football competition, with several established giants falling as new champions emerged across different disciplines.

In the girls’ football final, St. Joseph’s Girls Kitale were crowned regional champions after defeating Nasokol Girls 3-1. St. Joseph’s capped off an impressive campaign with a commanding display, while Nasokol, who had stunned former champions Itigo Girls in the semi-finals, settled for second place and also qualified for the 2026 Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) National Games.

In girls’ volleyball, Kesogon Girls from Trans Nzoia County produced another outstanding performance, defeating Kosirai Girls 3-0 in straight sets to lift the regional title.

After the match, Kosirai captain Eder Chepkemoi admitted that weaknesses in reception and blocking cost her side the championship.

“Our biggest challenge was reception and blocking. The injury to one of our players also lowered the team’s morale.”

Kesogon libero Lydia Atabo said the team is now focused on winning both the national and East Africa titles.

“This time we are determined to win both the national and East Africa titles. However, we still need to improve our service.”

The boys’ volleyball final also produced a dominant display from Chepsaita Boys, who defeated Andersen High School of Trans Nzoia 3-0 in straight sets to be crowned the 2026 Rift Valley champions.

Following the conclusion of the Rift Valley regional championships in Narok County, the champions and runners-up have secured qualification for the 2026 Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA) National Games, where they will compete against the country’s best schools for national honours and qualification for the East Africa Secondary Schools Games.

The 2026 KSSSA Term Two National Championships are scheduled to take place from Tuesday, July 28 to Saturday, August 1, at the MPESA Foundation Academy in Thika, Kiambu County, bringing together the country’s top-performing secondary schools in football, volleyball, basketball, rugby, hockey and other disciplines.

FKF president, former CEO questioned by EACC over alleged KSh42 million CHAN insurance scandal

By
Denilson Muhando
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Football Kenya Federation (FKF) President Hussein Mohammed and former Chief Executive Officer Harold Ndege have recorded statements with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) as investigations continue into an alleged KSh42 million insurance scandal linked to preparations for the African Nations Championship (CHAN).

Hussein Mohammed appeared before the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) on Thursday, July 9, to record a statement as part of ongoing investigations into the alleged loss of KSh42 million in public funds through an insurance contract associated with CHAN preparations.

Former FKF Chief Executive Officer Harold Ndege also appeared before the anti-graft agency after being summoned for a second time as investigators continue gathering evidence in the case.

According to the EACC, the investigation centres on allegations that an insurance contract linked to the tournament resulted in the loss of KSh42 million in public funds.

The commission has not disclosed further details regarding the nature of the alleged irregularities or indicated whether any criminal charges will be preferred against the individuals under investigation.

However, the EACC confirmed that investigations remain ongoing and that all persons of interest are being questioned as part of the inquiry.

The matter has drawn significant public attention as Kenya continues preparations to host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) alongside Uganda and Tanzania and to stage upcoming continental football competitions.

Both Hussein Mohammed and Harold Ndege are cooperating with investigators as the probe progresses.

The outcome of the investigation is expected to determine whether any prosecutions or other legal action will follow.

The EACC has reiterated its commitment to promoting accountability, transparency and prudent management of public resources, particularly in projects and sporting events financed with public funds.

Police Officer arrested for allegedly supplying food, ammunition to bandits at Pokot–Turkana border

By
Binti Wangila
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A police officer has been arrested for allegedly supplying food and ammunition to suspected bandits at the Pokot–Turkana border, as the government intensifies its crackdown on insecurity and rogue security officers in the North Rift.

Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced the arrest on Friday during a security meeting and public baraza at Malaso in Suguta Valley, Samburu County.

Murkomen said the officer was apprehended on Thursday while allegedly delivering food and bullets to suspected bandits operating along the Pokot–Turkana border.

“A police officer was arrested yesterday in the Pokot–Turkana area while taking food and bullets to bandits. We will take firm action against anyone found engaging in criminal activities,” Murkomen said.

The Cabinet Secretary said the arrest underscores the government’s determination to dismantle criminal networks that continue to fuel banditry in the North Rift region.

Murkomen further revealed that investigations have uncovered cases involving rogue security officers, including members of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), who are allegedly involved in the illegal sale of ammunition to criminals.

“We also have rogue officers, including those in the Kenya Defence Forces, who sell ammunition to criminals. If we find them, they will face legal action, lose their jobs, and be prosecuted,” he said.

He warned that the government’s crackdown would also target financiers of banditry, livestock traders who purchase stolen animals, and individuals who provide money used to acquire ammunition for criminal groups.

According to the Cabinet Secretary, the government is strengthening security operations through increased deployment of security personnel, establishment of additional security installations, improved equipment and logistical support, and the reorganisation of the National Police Reservists (NPR) to enhance operations in bandit-prone areas.

Murkomen added that the government has intensified its disarmament campaign, stepped up efforts to recover stolen livestock, and invested in the construction of security roads and expansion of mobile network coverage to improve surveillance, communication and emergency response.

The Cabinet Secretary was accompanied during the security tour by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli, GSU Commandant Johana Tonui, Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr. Abdi Hassan, Police Commandant Samuel Ndanyi and other senior government officials.

Turkana County flags off CSB++ nutrition supplies to combat child malnutrition

By
Binti Wangila
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The Turkana County Government has flagged off a two-month supply of Corn-Soy Blend Plus Plus (CSB++) to combat Moderate Acute Malnutrition (MAM) among children aged 6 to 59 months in five sub-counties, including Suguta and Kibish. The initiative aims to address the increasing cases of child malnutrition, which have risen to more than 35 percent in some areas due to prolonged drought. CSB++ is a fortified nutritional supplement that provides essential energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals to vulnerable children.

Speaking in Lodwar on July 9, 2026, during the flagging off ceremony, Turkana County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health, Dr. Joseph Epem, said the consignment will support up to 6,000 children under the age of five suffering from moderate acute malnutrition.

County Executive Member for Health and Sanitation Dr. Joseph Epem oversaw the dispatch of 10,133 bags of Corn-Soy Blend (CSB++) to Loima, Lokiriama, Lokichoggio, Kibish and Suguta this Thursday. Other sub-counties will continue receiving similar nutrition support through development partners.

Dr. Epem described the distribution as part of an ongoing county response to malnutrition, revealing that an additional 15,000 bags of CSB++ are expected to arrive soon to strengthen the intervention.

“This is an ongoing response, and very soon we are going to receive another batch of 15,000 bags of CSB++. Each bag weighs 7.5 kilograms. Just like any other medicine, CSB++ is a health product specifically meant to manage moderate malnutrition,” said Dr. Epem.

He assured residents that the Department of Health has put in place strict accountability measures to safeguard the nutrition supplies. According to Dr. Epem, every health facility has been allocated a specific quantity of CSB++, and facility management committees, officers in charge, and nutritionists will jointly oversee the receipt, recording, storage, and distribution of the product.

The Health CECM also warned against the illegal sale or misuse of the nutrition supplement, stressing that anyone found diverting or selling the product would face legal action.

“This product is under the control of the Department of Health. We want to warn unscrupulous individuals, including parents or health workers involved in selling or misusing these products, that they will face the full force of the law if caught,” he said.

The county government says the intervention forms part of its broader efforts to reduce child malnutrition, improve nutrition outcomes, and protect vulnerable children from the effects of prolonged drought and food insecurity across Turkana County.

High Court bars Wetang’ula, Kingi from Using constitutional offices in 2027 political campaigns

By
Binti Wangila
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National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula and Senate Speaker Amason Kingi are facing a constitutional petition that could redefine the role of parliamentary leaders in electoral politics after the High Court temporarily barred them from participating in partisan campaigns using the authority of their offices.

The High Court has issued conservatory orders restraining Wetang’ula and Kingi from using the authority, prestige, dignity or influence of their constitutional offices to organise, promote, endorse, lead or participate in partisan political campaigns pending the hearing and determination of the case.

The petition, filed by civil society organisation Vocal Africa, argues that the two Speakers’ participation in political campaigns “undermines Parliament’s constitutional independence and violates the separation of powers between the Legislature and the Executive.”

Justice David Mburu certified the matter as urgent and directed Wetang’ula and Kingi to file their responses within three working days. The case is scheduled for mention on July 16 for further directions.

Also named as respondents are the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), and the Attorney General.

In its court filings, Vocal Africa argues that Parliament was established by the Constitution as an independent arm of government tasked with overseeing the Executive and that its Speakers should not serve as leaders or mobilisers in partisan political campaigns.

The organisation alleges that between June and early July this year, Wetang’ula attended political rallies in Likoni, Mombasa County; Emuhaya, Kakamega County; and Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, where he urged Kenyans to support President William Ruto’s re-election bid and the Kenya Kwanza administration’s agenda.

Kingi is similarly accused of participating in political mobilisation meetings in Mombasa and other parts of the Coast region.

According to the petitioner, the two Speakers’ political activities have created “a conflict between their constitutional duty to preside over Parliament impartially and their involvement in partisan politics,” thereby eroding public confidence in the independence of Parliament.

Vocal Africa maintains that it does not oppose the Speakers’ right to hold personal political views. However, it argues that they should not use “the authority and prestige of their constitutional offices to advance political campaigns.”

The organisation is seeking permanent orders barring Wetang’ula and Kingi from using their offices in partisan political activities. It also wants the court to declare that their alleged conduct “violates the Constitution, the principles of leadership and integrity, and public trust.”

Additionally, the petition asks the court to direct the IEBC and EACC to investigate the allegations and submit their findings before the court.

Traditional giants fall as new contenders shine at the 2026 RVSSSA games

By
Denilson Muhando
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The 2026 Rift Valley Secondary Schools Sports Association (RVSSSA) Games have delivered a series of stunning upsets, with several traditional powerhouses crashing out as emerging teams announced their arrival across football and volleyball.

In the girls’ football competition, Nasokol Girls from West Pokot booked their place in the regional final after defeating Itigo Girls 2-1 in the semi-finals. The victory marks another significant milestone for the fast-rising side, who reached the KSSSA National semi-finals last year. Their triumph also ended the campaign of Itigo Girls, one of Kenya’s most successful girls’ football schools.

The boys’ football tournament produced equally dramatic results. Baringo County champions Kabarnet High School suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat to Menengai High School in the quarter-finals, extending their wait for a return to the KSSSA National Games.

Three-time national champions Laiser Hill Academy were also shown the exit after losing 4-3 on penalties to Tenwek High School following a 1-1 draw after regulation and extra time.

Six-time national champions St. Anthony’s Boys Kitale then became the latest casualty, falling 1-0 to Menengai High School in the semi-finals. The defeat means St. Anthony’s will miss the KSSSA National Games for a third consecutive year.

The surprises continued in boys’ volleyball, where defending regional champions and seven-time national winners Cheptil Boys were beaten 3-1 by Andersen High School of Trans Nzoia County in a thrilling semi-final. Seventeen-time national champions St. Patrick’s Iten were also eliminated at the semi-final stage, signaling what many observers have described as a “changing of the guard” in Rift Valley school sports.

As a result, Rift Valley is guaranteed a new boys’ football champion this year. In Friday’s final, Tenwek High School will face Menengai High School, while the girls’ football title will be contested by St. Joseph’s Girls Kitale and the impressive Nasokol Girls.

In volleyball, Andersen High School will take on Chepsaita Boys in the boys’ final, while Kesogon Girls of Trans Nzoia County will battle Kosirai Girls for the girls’ title.

The unexpected results have underlined the growing competitiveness of school sports in the Rift Valley, with a new generation of teams proving they have what it takes to challenge—and defeat—Kenya’s traditional sporting giants. The 2026 RVSSSA Games may well be remembered as the tournament that marked a “changing of the guard,” as emerging schools announced themselves on one of the region’s biggest sporting stages.

Blind pilot Daniel Othieno Odongo enters Mumias West parliamentary race

By
Binti Wangila
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Daniel Othieno Odongo, Kenya’s first blind pilot, has officially declared his bid for the Mumias West parliamentary seat, becoming one of the country’s most prominent persons with disabilities seeking elective office ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Running on a Roots Party ticket, Odongo’s entry into the race is being hailed as a milestone for disability inclusion in Kenya’s political leadership.

Born on August 24, 1992, Odongo lost his sight at the age of three. Despite the setback, he pursued his education at Kibos School for the Blind and Thika School for the Blind before training as a pilot in Kenya and South Africa. He also holds multiple degrees from Kenyatta University.

His journey has been marked by resilience. According to his personal story, Odongo was abandoned by his father because of his disability and was later raised by Catholic nuns after his grandmother became ill. He went on to score a B- in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE), proving that disability is not inability.

“Their handicaps should not be used as an excuse to discriminate them.”

The statement, made by Likuyani Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) Chair Moses Nanjukhi while encouraging persons with disabilities to register as voters and seek elective positions, reflects the growing call for greater political inclusion.

Odongo’s parliamentary bid also echoes concerns previously raised in the Senate. During a 2019 debate, lawmakers criticized counties for failing to adequately represent persons with disabilities and called for at least five per cent of elective and nominated positions to be reserved for PWDs.

His candidacy comes at a time when Western Kenya’s political landscape is beginning to take shape ahead of the 2027 elections.

With campaign costs for a National Assembly seat estimated at about Sh24.6 million, Odongo faces an uphill task but one that many believe could inspire more persons with disabilities to seek elective leadership rather than rely solely on nominated positions.

If successful, his election would mark a historic milestone for inclusive leadership inKenya, reinforcing the message that determination and ability—not disability—should define those who seek public office.

Religious and community leaders in Marsabit urged to fight extremism, promote peace 

By
Paul Lekarikei
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Religious and community leaders have been urged to continue working together to promote peace, protect human rights, and counter extremist ideologies that could lead to violence and unrest in society.

This was during a two-day sensitization workshop organized under the Kenya Community Engagement and Resilience Program (KCERP).

The workshop brought together youth, women, elders, religious leaders, civil society organizations and government officials to discuss ways of strengthening social cohesion and building an inclusive community.

Participants discussed the root causes of extremism and developed joint strategies to build trust, promote peace, and ensure communities are involved in solving their own challenges.

Speaking to journalists after the workshop, Rev. Mathayo Woche of ACK Church in Marsabit and Adan Chukulisa, Vice Chair of the Marsabit County Peace Committee, welcomed the initiative.

They said the training will play a big role in educating community members and they plan to use the knowledge gained to drive change.

On his part, Waqo Boru, KCERP Project Coordinator for Marsabit County, said the program will continue working with communities through sensitization to ensure residents receive accurate information on peace, human rights and preventing violent extremism.

Food distribution brings relief to 25,000 vulnerable refugees in Turkana camps

By
Kimani Karanja
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More than 25,000 vulnerable refugees in Kakuma and Kalobeyei camps have received food aid from the Global Methodist Church in partnership with the International Association for Refugees (IAFR).

The beneficiaries include the elderly, people with disabilities, orphans, widows, those living with chronic illnesses, and families unable to support themselves.

Each household received maize flour, beans, cooking oil and salt. The distribution was carried out in four phases to help families affected by a reduction in UNHCR humanitarian aid.

This marks the fifth distribution under the church-IAFR partnership. Camp committee and community leaders helped identify beneficiaries to ensure aid reached those most in need.

Rev. Amos Nyandwi, who oversees the relief project for the Global Methodist Church in Turkana, said the program is a lifeline for refugees facing severe hunger.

“We thank God for our partnership with IAFR. Since UNHCR aid decreased, many families have faced hunger and despair. Our goal is to ensure those in the most vulnerable situations receive food and have hope restored,” Rev. Nyandwi said.

He added that the aid is distributed without discrimination based on nationality, tribe or religion.

“We are working closely with community leaders to ensure the aid reaches the rightful beneficiaries. Our goal is to help those who are suffering the most and to show that there are still people who care about them during this difficult period,” he added.

Community leaders said the support is critical as food shortages worsen in the camps, and called for more collaboration between humanitarian organizations, faith groups and the community.

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