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One killed in early morning Tuktuk crash near Marsabit town

By
Mike Kwoba
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​A tragic early morning accident on the Segel-Maikona road near Marsabit town has claimed the life of a tuktuk driver. The incident occurred early Thursday morning when the driver lost control of the vehicle, veered off the road, and plunged into a culvert near the Arobota area.

​Marsabit Traffic Base Commander Martin Muthaura confirmed the incident, stating that the driver died on the spot. His brother, who was riding as a passenger, survived the crash with a left shoulder injury and is currently undergoing treatment at the Marsabit County Referral Hospital.

​Following the accident, Commander Muthaura issued a stern warning to motorists and bodaboda (motorcycle) riders, urging them to strictly observe traffic rules. He highlighted that current weather conditions, including heavy fog and strong winds, have made the roads particularly hazardous.

​The traffic boss also emphasized the need for bodaboda operators to seek formal training at riding schools and ensure they possess valid licenses. Additionally, he warned all road users to remain highly vigilant due to the frequent risk of livestock and wild animals crossing the roads in the region.

Wanted robbery suspect arrested in Garissa following intelligence-led operation

By
Binti Wangila
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A 21-year-old man wanted in connection with two robbery with violence cases has been arrested in Garissa Township following an intelligence-led operation by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
The suspect, identified as Hamza Abdi Dagane, was apprehended on Wednesday in the Bulla Medina area after detectives tracked him down during the operation.

According to the DCI, Dagane had been on the run after failing to appear before the Garissa Law Courts on June 29, 2026, where he was expected to face charges related to the two robbery with violence cases. His failure to attend court prompted the issuance of a warrant for his arrest.

Following his arrest, the suspect is expected to be arraigned before the Garissa Law Courts on Thursday, July 9, to answer to the charges.

The DCI said the arrest underscores its continued efforts to trace and apprehend suspects who evade the justice system, adding that it remains committed to ensuring all individuals facing criminal charges are brought before the courts in accordance with the law.

Government expands NYOTA programme to Northern Kenya in youth jobs drive

By
Binti Wangila
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The government has expanded the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Programme to Northern Kenya as it rolls out the second phase of the youth empowerment initiative targeting 122,203 young entrepreneurs across the country.

The programme, backed by KSh3.06 billion, will this week begin reaching beneficiaries in Garissa, Wajir, Mandera and Marsabit counties, marking the first time the initiative has been extended to the region.

According to the government, the expansion follows the success of the programme’s first phase, which largely focused on Nairobi, Kiambu, Machakos and Kajiado counties, where thousands of young entrepreneurs received business training, mentorship and start-up grants.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale will oversee the rollout in Garissa, Environment Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa will lead activities in Wajir, Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho will supervise Mandera, while Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo will coordinate implementation in Marsabit.

The programme will then move to Western Kenya, covering Bungoma, Busia, Kakamega and Vihiga under Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, before expanding to the Central Rift region, where Deputy President Kithure Kindiki will oversee activities in Baringo, Nakuru and Nyandarua.

Along the Coast, entrepreneurs from Mombasa, Kwale and Taita Taveta will participate in the Lower Coast Cluster under Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya, while those from Kilifi, Lamu and Tana River will be covered by the Upper Coast Cluster led by Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe.

Under the second phase, 33,269 first-time beneficiaries will receive start-up grants, while 88,934 entrepreneurs from the first phase will receive a second round of financing to expand their businesses.

The government said the programme has attracted overwhelming interest, with more than 2.5 million applications received from young Kenyans seeking business support.

“Phase II marks the evolution of NYOTA from supporting business creation to accelerating business growth,” the programme statement said.

Officials said the second phase could help create between 150,000 and 250,000 additional jobs by strengthening micro, small and medium-sized enterprises across the country.

“The next chapter of NYOTA is about creating an enabling environment where successful entrepreneurs can continue to thrive,” the statement added.

The government also plans to work with county governments to reduce licensing barriers, establish a unique identity for NYOTA entrepreneurs and strengthen access to financing through the Youth Enterprise Development Fund, Uwezo Fund, Kenya Industrial Estates (KIE) and the Kenya Jobs and Economic Transformation (KJET) programme.

Government to expand Huduma Centres to 290 Nationwide

By
Binti Wangila
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The Government plans to expand the number of Huduma Centres across the country to 290, with the long-term goal of ensuring every constituency has at least one centre offering essential public services.

Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku said the initiative is part of the government’s broader public service reforms aimed at bringing services closer to citizens while reducing the time and cost of accessing government offices.

“Our goal is to ensure that every constituency has a Huduma Centre where citizens can conveniently access essential government services,” Ruku said during a public engagement session hosted on his social media platforms.

According to the Cabinet Secretary, the expansion is expected to improve efficiency, promote inclusivity and enhance equitable access to public services in line with the Constitution.

The announcement comes as the Ministry continues to implement reforms intended to modernise the public service through digital transformation, improved governance and enhanced accountability.

Ruku said the government is also digitising public service systems, strengthening performance management and carrying out a nationwide payroll audit to eliminate ghost workers and other irregularities.

To increase public participation, the Cabinet Secretary announced that the Ministry will hold weekly online engagement forums where Kenyans can ask questions, submit feedback and propose solutions to improve government service delivery.

He said the reforms are guided by the national values and principles of governance under Articles 10 and 232 of the Constitution, which require public institutions to uphold accountability, transparency, integrity and professionalism.

The Cabinet Secretary also disclosed that the Ministry is finalising a national internship policy that will provide a transparent framework for recruiting and managing interns across the public service, creating more opportunities for young people while strengthening Kenya’s workforce.

Turkana governor Lomorukai defends development record, calls for probe into Loima NG-CDF bursaries.

By
Binti Wangila
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Turkana Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai Napotikan has defended his administration’s development record while calling for investigations into the distribution of National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) bursaries in Loima Constituency.

The Governor made the remarks during the Women’s Economic Empowerment Programme held in Lomil, Loima Sub-County, where he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting inclusive economic growth through grassroots empowerment initiatives.

Lomorukai said the county government is working closely with Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) to implement development projects across Turkana. He stated that each ward has been allocated KSh50 million for development and said elected leaders should be held accountable for how those resources are utilized.

“Every MCA has KSh50 million for the development of their ward. Any MCA who comes back complaining has failed in their responsibility,” the Governor said.

The Governor also called on Kenya’s anti-corruption agencies to investigate the allocation of NG-CDF bursaries in Loima Constituency, alleging that the funds may not be reaching the intended beneficiaries.

According to Lomorukai, approximately KSh60 million is allocated annually for bursaries in the constituency, but he claimed that only between KSh5 million to KSh10 million reaches students. He further alleged that principals of two major schools in the constituency were involved in the mismanagement of bursary funds and urged investigators to establish the truth.

The Governor did not present evidence to support the allegations during his speech. The Loima NG-CDF office, the principals mentioned by the Governor, and other relevant officials had not publicly responded to the claims at the time of publication.

Lomorukai also defended himself against corruption allegations that have been raised against him in recent years, maintaining that he has never been investigated by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and has never stolen public funds.

“If you come to my place, you will not find a single stolen shilling. I live on the fruits of my hard work and share them with the people of Turkana. Some people call me a thief, yet they go to church and say, ‘Praise the Lord.’ You cannot insult your fellow human being and then claim to worship God. That is disrespectful to the church,” he said.

The Governor’s remarks come more than a year after the EACC launched investigations into alleged financial impropriety within the Turkana County Government. The investigations led to searches, scrutiny of several county officials, and court proceedings involving the preservation of some assets. The investigations remain separate from the Governor’s remarks, and no court has found him guilty of corruption.

In December 2024, Lomorukai also called on the EACC to investigate the alleged misuse of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) resources by some Members of Parliament in Turkana County.

The funds were established to improve the welfare of residents by addressing a range of social and economic needs. When effectively managed, they can support small businesses, empower women and young people, provide relief during emergencies, and improve livelihoods across the county. However, concerns have been raised by some Members of Parliament over the management and utilization of the funds, prompting calls for investigations to determine whether public resources are being used transparently and for their intended purposes.

The Governor’s remarks also come against the backdrop of ongoing political exchanges over the management of public funds in Turkana County. In February this year, Turkana Central MP Joseph Emathe Namuar called on the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to investigate several public accounts established by the Turkana County Government, including the Biashara Fund, the Youth and Women Empowerment Fund, and the Emergency Fund, over alleged misappropriation of public resources.

“I would strongly urge EACC officials to thoroughly investigate the public accounts opened by Turkana County,” Namuar said.

Concluding his address, the Governor said empowering community groups remains central to his administration’s development agenda, arguing that such initiatives promote self-reliance, improve household livelihoods, create economic opportunities, and contribute to sustainable development across the county.

“We deserve better”: Dukana residents demand action on ailing health facility

By
Binti Wangila
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Youth, women and elders in Dukana, North Horr Constituency, Marsabit County took to the streets on Wednesday to protest the deplorable state of Dukana Health Centre, accusing county and national authorities of neglect.

The demonstrators cited chronic staff shortages, lack of drugs, and a run-down facility that forces patients to travel long distances for basic services.

“We have watched our health facility deteriorate. Our mothers and children deserve better care. We shouldn’t have to travel far for services that should be here,” said Mzee Ali Dema, a community elder.

Umuro Ali, a youth leader, said the protest was about the community’s future. 

“This is not just today’s struggle. Dukana residents are united in demanding change. We hope our voices will finally be heard,” he said.

Mama Halima, a resident, said patients wait for hours or days with no help. 

“We are tired of waiting. The facility has only one nurse. We urge both the county and national government to prioritize healthcare in our area,” she said.

The poor state of the facility has also sparked online outrage.

Marsabit resident Abdulmaleek Hussein questioned the role of elected leaders. 

“Where was the MCA when this facility collapsed? Where was the MP? Oversight and advocacy are their job. Leadership is not about statements after a crisis, but preventing it,” he posted.

Hussein called on the County Executive, MCA and MP to work together to restore dignity to the health centre.

“The disturbing state of Dukana Health Centre should concern every resident of Marsabit County. From the visible deterioration of the buildings to the apparent neglect of medical equipment and the poor condition of the compound, these scenes raise serious questions about the state of healthcare services in the area. More importantly, they call for urgent action rather than political point-scoring.” Hussein stated.

Residents say without urgent intervention, vulnerable mothers, children and the elderly will continue to suffer.

The protest highlights wider gaps in healthcare delivery in remote parts of Marsabit County.

Treasury CS John Mbadi appoints six members to national infrastructure fund board

By
Binti Wangila
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Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has appointed six members to the Board of the National Infrastructure Fund (NIF), with their appointments taking effect immediately.

In a Kenya Gazette notice published on July 8, Mbadi said the newly appointed board members will serve a three-year term.

The appointees are James Mworia Mwirigi, the Chief Executive Officer of Centum Investment Company, Fahima Ali Ahmed Zein, Christopher Kibui Maranga, Latoya Ouna, Lawrence Kibet, and Mohammed Abdirahman Hassan.

The National Infrastructure Fund was launched by President William Ruto in March 2026 to finance major infrastructure projects across the country, including roads and the expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

Speaking during the launch, President Ruto said the fund would help Kenya finance strategic infrastructure projects while reducing the country’s reliance on external borrowing.

“The National Infrastructure Fund will enable Kenya to finance critical infrastructure projects using domestic resources while reducing dependence on foreign loans,” President Ruto said during the launch.

The first major project expected to be financed through the fund is the expansion of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, with construction anticipated to begin soon.

The airport expansion project has been awarded to China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC), one of China’s leading infrastructure construction firms.

Major Kenyan political parties face wave of defections ahead of 2027 general election

By
Binti Wangila
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Kenya’s major political parties are witnessing a growing wave of defections as politicians reposition themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), Jubilee Party, and the Democratic Action Party-Kenya (DAP-K) are among the parties most affected by the shifting political landscape.

Political analysts say many leaders are seeking new political parties they believe will improve their chances of winning elective seats, while others are leaving due to internal divisions and changing political alliances.

Within ODM, leaders allied to the Linda Mwananchi faction have announced plans to launch a new political party to contest next year’s General Election. Saboti MP Caleb Amisi has already joined the People’s Renaissance Movement (PM Party).

Other ODM leaders expected to leave the party include Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, Vihiga Senator Godfrey Osotsi, Funyula MP Wilberforce Oundo, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, Suba South MP Caroli Omondi, Kitutu Chache South MP Anthony Kibagendi, Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, and Kitutu Masaba MP Clive Gisairo.

Senator Osotsi said the planned party would serve as the political home for the Linda Mwananchi movement, arguing that ODM’s decision to work with President William Ruto had disappointed many of its supporters.

“The new party will provide a political home for leaders and supporters who believe ODM has departed from its original course,” Osotsi said.

Suba South MP Caroli Omondi also confirmed that he would not seek re-election on an ODM ticket.

Meanwhile, the ruling UDA continues to lose support in the Mount Kenya region, with several leaders distancing themselves from the party and gravitating toward the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) associated with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

Murang’a Governor Irungu Kang’ata and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro have both announced that they will not defend their seats under the UDA banner, although neither has officially declared the party they will join.

“The people of the Mount Kenya region have lost confidence in UDA,” Nyoro said.

Several leaders have already joined DCP, including Nyandarua Senator John Methu, Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, Kiambu Senator Karungo Thang’wa, Senator James Murango, Embakasi Central MP Benjamin Gathiru (Mejja Donk), Embakasi North MP James Gakuya, and Gatanga MP Edward Muriu.

In Western Kenya, Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale has announced his association with the proposed United Patriotic Movement (UPM), which is awaiting full registration.

Elsewhere, Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula and Kiminini MP Bisau Kakai, both currently affiliated with DAP-K, have declared their intention to contest future elections on UDA tickets.

Former Kieni MP Kanini Kega, who currently serves in the East African Legislative Assembly through the Jubilee Party, has also joined DCP.

Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje has likewise hinted at joining DCP after holding talks with former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at his Wamunyoro residence in Nyeri County.

The latest defections underscore the fluid nature of Kenya’s political landscape as parties and politicians realign ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Lamu leaders welcome Dangote’s planned oil refinery investment

By
Binti Wangila
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Leaders and residents of Lamu County have welcomed plans by Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote to establish a crude oil refinery in the coastal county, expressing optimism that the project will stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities.

The announcement follows a directive by President William Ruto, who tasked Deputy President Kithure Kindiki with leading a joint government and private sector team to coordinate preparations for the proposed multi-billion-shilling investment.

Speaking at State House, Nairobi, during the signing of the National Wealth Fund Act 2026, President Ruto said the government had already begun preparations for the implementation of the project and that plans were underway for a groundbreaking ceremony.

“The government has already commenced preparations for the implementation of this project, and arrangements are being made for the groundbreaking ceremony,” President Ruto said.

However, the Head of State did not disclose the official date for the commencement of construction.

According to international industry estimates, the refinery—expected to be the largest in East Africa—will have the capacity to process 700,000 barrels of crude oil per day. The facility is expected to supply refined petroleum products to Kenya and neighbouring countries, reducing dependence on imported fuel.

Dangote Group had earlier expressed interest in establishing the refinery in Tanga, Tanzania, before reportedly shifting its focus to Kenya due to the country’s strategic advantages and infrastructure.

Although the exact location of the refinery has not been officially confirmed, government sources indicate it is likely to be constructed in Magogoni, near the Lamu Port at Kililana in Lamu West Constituency.

The Port of Lamu is regarded as one of the region’s most modern deep-water ports, capable of handling large cargo vessels and supporting increased regional trade.

Lamu Deputy Governor Dr Mbarak Salim welcomed the investment, saying the county government, local leaders and residents were ready to work closely with the investor to ensure the project’s success.

“The county government, together with local leaders and residents, is fully prepared to support this investment and ensure its successful implementation,” Dr Salim said.

Lamu Port General Manager Abdulaziz Mzee said the refinery would significantly boost business activities at the port and strengthen Kenya’s position as a regional energy hub.

Residents also welcomed the proposal but urged the investor and the government to ensure meaningful public participation throughout the project’s implementation.

Former Lamu East MP Mohamed Hashim cautioned against repeating mistakes made during the development of the Lamu Port, which resulted in legal disputes over community rights and land issues.

Former Lamu Municipal Mayor Famau Ahmed proposed that at least 70 percent of jobs created by the project be reserved for local youth.

Environmental activist and Executive Officer of the Lamu Women Alliance (LAWA), Raya Famau, called for adequate compensation for all landowners whose property may be acquired for the project.

Meanwhile, Mohamed Abdulkdir, Executive Secretary of the Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK) in Lamu County, urged the investor to prioritize community development by investing in social services alongside the refinery project.

The proposed refinery is expected to become one of Kenya’s largest industrial investments, with the potential to transform Lamu into a major regional energy and logistics hub while creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs.

​Turkana school crisis: Kakitetei ECDE pupils forced to learn under trees due to lack of classrooms

By
Vivian Achwa
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Dozens of Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) pupils at Kakitetei Village in Napeitom are being forced to attend lessons under a tree due to a severe lack of classrooms. Photos shared by their teacher, Mr. Moses Ekaale, show the young learners sitting in the open, fully exposed to intense heat, dust, and strong winds that frequently disrupt their learning.

​“The current environment is not safe for young children,” Mr. Ekaale said. “We are relocating to a new site, and we welcome well-wishers to help us build a dignified place for these kids to learn.”

​While the local community has successfully identified a piece of land for a new school, they completely lack the funds required to construct classrooms and other essential facilities. According to Mr. Ekaale, the proposed school urgently needs permanent or semi-permanent classrooms, desks, toilets, clean water, and secure fencing. 

He emphasizes that establishing proper infrastructure would dramatically improve both school attendance and overall learning outcomes.

​Local parents and residents echo these concerns, noting that the absence of proper classrooms actively discourages children from attending school, particularly during periods of extreme heat or heavy rain. Education experts support their worries, noting that safe classrooms, proper sanitation, and accessible water are critical for cognitive and social development in early childhood, directly impacting a child’s long-term academic performance.

​In response to the crisis, Mr. Ekaale has launched an appeal to the Turkana County Government, the Ministry of Education, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), faith-based groups, corporates, and individual donors to partner with the community.

​The situation at Kakitetei highlights a much wider challenge faced by remote schools across Turkana County, where historical infrastructure deficits continue to limit access to quality education. 

Despite the challenges, community members remain hopeful that with external support, their children will soon have safe classrooms to learn in with dignity.

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