Politics
Opposition pushes to exclude Smartmatic from 2027 election
The News
Kenya's opposition is campaigning before the 2027 General Election to prevent Smartmatic technology from being used in the next election.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Kenya Minute.
Thursday, 20 August 2026
Kenya’s news, on the hour · Est. 2026
Thursday, 20 August 2026
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Politics
Opposition pushes to exclude Smartmatic from 2027 election
Kenya's opposition is campaigning before the 2027 General Election to prevent Smartmatic technology from being used in the next election.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Opposition invites ICC to probe Kenya's political violence crisis
Opposition leaders at a press conference in Nairobi on August 19, 2026, expressed concern over the country's deteriorating security and invited the International Criminal Court to investigate political violence in Kenya.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
United Opposition takes security concerns to ICC
United Opposition leaders say Kenya's security situation has deteriorated to worrying levels and are considering escalating the matter to the international court.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Maraga taskforce submits police reform report to President Ruto
Former Chief Justice David Maraga submitted a comprehensive National Taskforce on Police Reform report to President William Ruto on November 16, 2023, viewed as a potential turning point to dismantle state-sanctioned violence and restore the police's institutional integrity.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Lawyer challenges KNH CEO appointment on retirement age grounds
A Nairobi lawyer has filed a High Court petition challenging the appointment of Dr Richard Lesiyampe as Kenyatta National Hospital Chief Executive Officer, arguing that it violates constitutional and regulatory requirements regarding mandatory retirement age for public officers in senior state corporation posts.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
President Ruto's debt exceeds Sh13 trillion since October 2022
Since taking office in October 2022, President William Ruto has already surpassed the Sh13 trillion debt mark, exceeding the total debt legacy left by former President Uhuru Kenyatta after his 10-year tenure.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
National Assembly approves Duncan Ojwang as IPOA chairperson
The National Assembly on Wednesday approved lawyer Duncan Ojwang Oburu as chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), with the Committee on Administration and Internal Security finding he meets all required qualifications including High Court judge eligibility and a law degree from a recognized university.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Ruto and opposition compete for Raila's coastal political base
The Coastal region, long described as the political base of the late Raila Odinga, is now contested between President Ruto's government and opposition figures seeking to consolidate support in the area.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Kericho Governor Mutai names Jackson Rop as running mate
Kericho Governor Dr Erick Mutai has declared his political partnership with deputy Eng Fred Kirui over and named Finance executive Jackson Rop as his preferred running mate ahead of the 2027 election, challenging Kirui to a political duel. The two leaders exchanged accusations at a public function in Kipkelion West, with Kirui alleging mistreatment while Mutai told him to pursue his own political course.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Jubilee women launch nationwide campaign to address governance issues
Jubilee Party women leaders have launched "The Kenya We Want" campaign, aiming to mobilize at least seven million women to speak about challenges facing families including cost of living, healthcare, education, insecurity, and political violence, and to demand better governance. The campaign will involve meetings with women in villages, markets, churches, mosques, universities and other community spaces across all constituencies, wards and villages.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Diaspora group warns Kenya risks 2007-2008 violence repeat
A US-based chapter of Linda Mwananchi movement warned Kenya risks returning to 2007-2008 post-election political violence, after armed youths barricaded roads, torched vehicles and attacked journalists during the movement's Homa Bay rally on August 16. The group called for accountability for anyone involved in the violence, regardless of their political affiliation or position.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Gachagua warns of Homa Bay-style violence threat in Emurua Dikirr
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has accused Emurua Dikirr MP David Kipsang Keter and government officials of threatening violence ahead of his planned visit to the constituency on August 21, warning that disruptions could surpass recent Homa Bay violence where one person died and dozens were injured.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Sossion pledges TSC-Education Ministry cooperation if approved
Teachers Service Commission nominee Wilson Sossion told parliament he would foster cooperation between the TSC and Ministry of Education, work within the commission's existing strategic plan, and prioritize education quality and teacher support if approved for the commissioner position.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Church calls for police inspector general's resignation
The Church and Clergy Association of Kenya has called on Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to resign, accusing the police of partisan conduct and misuse of power ahead of the 2027 General Election. CCAK national chairman Bishop Hudson Ndeda cited increased goonism, disruption of political gatherings, and engagement in partisan politics.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Narok North emerges as competitive 2027 parliamentary battleground
Narok North Constituency is becoming a closely watched political battleground ahead of the 2027 General Election, with multiple aspirants positioning themselves for a fiercely contested parliamentary race against incumbent MP Agnes Mantaine Pareyio, who made history in 2022 as the first woman elected to represent the constituency. The contest reflects shifts in political loyalties, party influence, and generational change in the region.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
MPs urge Education Ministry to enforce school morning reporting times
Members of the National Assembly have pushed the Ministry of Education to enforce adherence to school reporting time policies, citing security concerns as young children arriving early pose a threat. Bahati MP Irene Njoki raised the matter in Parliament, noting that despite previous requests, implementation remains a challenge, and sought guidelines particularly for areas experiencing insecurity and sexual and gender-based violence.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
TSC nominee proposes dual career paths for teacher advancement
Teachers Service Commission nominee Antonina Lentoijoni has proposed reforms to address teacher stagnation, including revised Career Progression Guidelines that would allow teachers to advance to higher grades without being forced into administrative roles. She also proposes automating the recruitment process to help track applications and identify areas where teachers have stagnated.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
MP Opondo Kaluma defies NCIC hate speech summons unpunished
Homa Bay Town MP Opondo Kaluma has openly defied a National Cohesion and Integration Commission summons over hate speech allegations while the NCIC has moved swiftly against other suspects in the same incident, raising questions about differential enforcement and protection of powerful politicians.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
UDA, Safina officials spar over defections ahead of 2027 election
Political analysts describe defections from President Ruto's administration as acts of self-preservation. Safina Secretary-General Joakim Simiyu questioned the timing of departures, while UDA Homa Bay County chairman Kennedy Obuya argued that leaders should account for their records rather than abandon the government ahead of 2027.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Wasaga urges independent state bodies to enforce law impartially
Advocate Peter Simba Wasaga has called for independent state institutions like the DCI and ODPP to enforce the law without regard to political alliances, arguing this would curb political intolerance ahead of the 2027 General Election. He criticised remarks by political leaders from both government and opposition following clashes at a Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay County, saying inflammatory statements are wrong regardless of political affiliation.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
MPs concerned over organized disruption of public gatherings
Members of the National Assembly are alarmed by the increasing use of organized groups to disrupt political rallies, funerals, and other lawful public gatherings ahead of the 2027 elections.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Kindiki stresses county role in Kenya's health reforms
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki called for stronger coordination between national and county governments to deliver effective health reforms and Universal Health Coverage, emphasizing that counties manage frontline facilities and that system failures in any component immediately affect patient care.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Supreme Court halts Sh1.5bn recovery in Ruaraka land case
The Supreme Court has issued temporary orders stopping the recovery of Sh1.5 billion in compensation paid for land occupied by Ruaraka High School and Drive-In Primary School, pending the hearing of an application by Huelands Limited. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission cannot proceed with recovery efforts or enforcement measures while the interim orders remain in effect.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Public officers must resign by February 10 for 2027 elections
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has announced that public officers seeking to contest elective positions in the 2027 General Election must resign from office by February 10, 2027, exactly six months before the August 10 poll. The IEBC confirmed that the deadline and subsequent electoral timelines are legally binding and non-negotiable.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Wetang'ula urges peaceful campaigns, rejects political goonism
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has called on political leaders and supporters to embrace peaceful, issue-based campaigns and reject political goonism ahead of the 2027 General Election, warning that the emerging culture of political violence poses a threat to national security and undermines constitutional rights.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
IEBC registers 2.94 million voters ahead of 2027 election
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has stepped up preparations for the August 10, 2027 General Election, with 2,936,516 Kenyans registered as voters since Continuous Voter Registration launched on September 29, 2025. The Commission projects a final register of about 28.5 million voters and is expanding voter registration for Kenyans abroad from 12 to 26 countries.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
IEBC sets February 10 deadline for public officers eyeing 2027 seats
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission announced that public officers seeking to contest in the August 10, 2027 General Election must resign from office by February 10, 2027. The commission released its election calendar with legally binding deadlines, and cautioned that official campaigns cannot begin before May 29, 2027.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Kiharu MP Nyoro switches from UDA to People's Party
Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro has left the UDA party to join the People's Party of Kenya (PPK), a political move compared to former Gatanga MP Peter Kenneth's earlier decision to join the Kenya National Congress against the prevailing political direction in Mt Kenya.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Parliament approves Duncan Ojwang as IPOA chairperson
The National Assembly has approved Dr. Duncan Ojwang Oburu as the new Chairperson of the Independent Policing Oversight Authority, succeeding Justice Ahmed Issack Hassan who moved to the Court of Appeal. Ojwang pledged to protect IPOA's independence during his hearing.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Mugithi musician Samidoh declares candidacy for Ol Joro Orok MP
Samuel Muchoki Ndirangu, known as Samidoh, has announced his candidacy for Member of Parliament for Ol Joro Orok Constituency in Nyandarua County, citing his experience growing up in the constituency and desire to participate in leadership rather than relying on his popularity as a musician.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Naivasha MP Kihara clashes with Nairobi Woman Rep Passaris on live TV
During a tense TV47 broadcast, Naivasha MP Jayne Kihara and Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris clashed over allegations of political incitement and the 2007 post-electoral violence, with Passaris accusing Kihara of involvement in the 2007 violence and Kihara rejecting the accusations.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Naisula Lesuuda overcomes patriarchy to serve second parliamentary term
Naisula Lesuuda, who began her career in journalism, was the youngest nominated Senator in 2013 before winning the Samburu West parliamentary seat in 2017 and re-elected in 2022, despite the area's patriarchal nature. She discusses her journey from the newsroom to Parliament and the challenges of seeking political office as a woman.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
DCP leader Gachagua tours Murang'a region
Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua toured Murang'a.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Gachagua alleges government plot to disrupt Emurua Dikirr visit
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has written to Inspector General Douglas Kanja alleging a coordinated plan by government operatives to disrupt his visit to Emurua Dikirr on August 21st, accusing Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumbah Murkomen, Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo, and sitting MP David Kipsang Keter of orchestrating politically-motivated police mobilization and threats against his entourage.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
CS Mbadi presents National Infrastructure Fund policy to committee
Cabinet Secretary Mbadi presented the National Infrastructure Fund Policy Proposal before the Finance Committee.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Gachagua seeks security guarantee for Emurua Dikirr visit
Democracy for the Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua has written to the Inspector General of Police requesting a security guarantee ahead of a planned visit to Emurua Dikirr Constituency on Friday. Gachagua claims the current MP David Kipsang Keter and others have issued threats against his visit, and alleges Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo financed mobilisation to cause chaos.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
Embu Council of Elders rejects Nembure Stadium Kindiki endorsement
The Embu Council of Elders, Nyagi ya Ndiriri, has distanced itself from a meeting at Nembure Stadium where elders from Embu, Meru, Tharaka Nithi and Isiolo reportedly endorsed Deputy President Kithure Kindiki as the region's spokesman. The council's chairman said the meeting lacked authority because it did not involve all recognised elders and alleged that participants were paid cash.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Supreme Court stays recovery of 1.5 billion shilling Ruaraka school land case
Kenya's Supreme Court has temporarily halted efforts to recover Ksh.1.5 billion in compensation paid for land occupied by Ruaraka High School and Drive-In Primary School, following an application by Huelands Limited and pending determination of a case challenging the Court of Appeal's July 2026 decision in the long-running dispute.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Sakaja approves law granting Nairobi hospitals financial autonomy
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has approved the Nairobi City County Health Services and Management Act, 2026, which grants Level Five county hospitals greater financial and management autonomy while introducing stronger oversight, accountability, and protection of patients' rights. The hospitals will operate as county entities with Hospital Management Boards and competitively appointed CEOs serving as accounting officers overseeing financial management, budgeting, procurement, and staffing.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
High Court orders criminal case against businessman Kotecha to proceed
The High Court in Nairobi dismissed an application to halt and withdraw criminal proceedings against businessman Jayesh Kumar Kotecha Prabhudas and Midland Hauliers Limited, ruling the case should proceed. The accused face charges including conspiracy to defraud, fraudulent disposition of mortgaged goods, and offences relating to company management.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Kalonzo leads opposition contenders in 2027 poll at 22 percent
A Swiss Poll International survey places Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka at 22 percent nationally in presidential voting intentions, second only to President Ruto at 31 percent, and commanding 41 percent support among 2,139 respondents identified as anti-Ruto voters for the opposition presidential nomination.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
Wiper denies exclusive political deal with Gachagua
Wiper Patriotic Front has dismissed reports that party leader Kalonzo Musyoka struck a political deal with DCP leader Rigathi Gachagua, saying their August 17 meeting was convened by Gachagua to thank Wiper MPs and senators for supporting him during his impeachment.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
Sossion tells MPs union past won't compromise TSC independence
Former KNUT secretary-general Wilson Sossion, nominated to the Teachers Service Commission, told MPs that his history of confronting the employer on behalf of teachers will not affect his ability to serve independently; he said his union experience could instead strengthen the commission by providing deeper understanding of educators' challenges.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
DCP leaders dismiss NCIC summons against Gachagua
Democracy for Citizens Party leaders have dismissed a National Cohesion and Integration Commission summons against party leader Rigathi Gachagua over alleged inflammatory remarks, accusing the commission of applying double standards to political leaders and challenging it to visit Gachagua's Wamunyoro residence instead.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Lawyer Angela Mulwa re-arrested in Dr. Victoria Mutiso murder case
Lawyer Angela Mulwa was re-arrested by homicide detectives on Thursday evening shortly after securing her release on a Ksh.1 million cash bail in connection with the murder of Dr. Victoria Mutiso. She is set to be arraigned on Friday.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Ichung'wah welcomes ICC probe, blames opposition for violence
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung'wah has welcomed calls for an ICC investigation into political violence in Kenya, but countered opposition accusations against President Ruto by claiming opposition leaders are sponsoring violence and shifting blame to the government.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
IEBC formally gazetted 2027 election period with detailed timelines
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has formally gazetted the commencement of the election period for the August 10, 2027 polls, publishing Kenya Gazette Notice No. 13497 to bring the Electoral Code of Conduct and Election Offences Act into force, setting out a roadmap governing voter registration, political party activities, candidate nominations, campaigns and election offences.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
IEBC sets May 29, 2027 as official campaign start date
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has set May 29, 2027 as the earliest date for formal presidential campaigning ahead of the 2027 General Election, with the campaign period to run until August 7, 2027. The commission has warned that campaigning outside this window—including posters, caravans, and rallies—will be unlawful, despite early political activity already underway across the country.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
IEBC halts ballot paper and technology tenders pending review
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission has temporarily frozen procurement of election technology and ballot papers for the 2027 General Election following a review request filed with the Public Procurement Administrative Review Board. Procurement of other election materials is continuing as planned.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
IEBC targets 28.5 million voters for 2027 election
Kenya's Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission targets approximately 28.5 million registered voters for the 2027 General Election, up from 22.1 million in 2022. As of August 20, 2026, 2.9 million Kenyans have registered since the Continuous Voter Registration exercise began in September 2025.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
IEBC sets February 10 deadline for public officers to resign
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission announced that public officers intending to contest in the August 10, 2027 General Election must resign from office by February 10, 2027, exactly six months before the election. The IEBC also released other key election timelines, including March 16 for party candidate submissions and May 8 for completion of party primaries.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
Ogamba defends new university funding model, challenges Gachagua
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has defended the government's proposed university funding model, challenging former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other critics to offer alternative solutions rather than only criticising the reforms. Ogamba argued that the current system is unsustainable and that the proposed changes would introduce an investment approach where the State considers students' eventual careers and earning potential when determining higher education financing.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
Business
Japan, Thailand, China lead global property investment interest surge
A study by online trading platform Taurex ranked the world's top 10 lucrative housing markets, finding that Japan tops the list with buyer interest jumping 245 per cent in the past three years, while Thailand and China also rank among the hottest markets. The research examined nearly 40 countries since 2022, tracking online searches for property purchases and rentals, rental yields, and price-to-income ratios.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Equity Group profit surges 32pc; StanChart declines 17pc
Equity Group Holdings' first-half net profit rose 32 per cent to Sh43.80 billion, while Standard Chartered Bank Kenya's profit fell by 16.8 per cent due to lower lending margins, showing mixed performance across Kenya's banking sector.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Kenya Airways warns of earnings hit from 72% fuel cost surge
Kenya Airways has issued a profit warning, citing a 72% surge in fuel costs following the war in the Middle East as a compounding challenge expected to hit its earnings this year.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Maersk and Viaservice partner to ease importer container financing
AP Moller-Maersk and Viaservice-Ke, a subsidiary of Switzerland-based Viatrans SA, have partnered to offer eligible Maersk customers access to the Viaservice Container Solution, a digital trade-financing platform designed to reduce working capital businesses tie up in container deposits.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Nairobi apartment prices falling while demand remains strong
Nairobi's property market shows contradictory trends: apartment values in prime areas like Westlands and Upper Hill are declining (down 2.8 per cent and 2.5 per cent respectively in Q1 2026), yet strong demand persists, creating a housing mismatch in the market.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Small-scale traders boycott cargo clearance over rising levies
Small-scale importers and micro-entrepreneurs have announced an immediate boycott of cargo clearance to protest higher taxes, levies and administrative fees, after the relief period granted by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) lapsed.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
SportPesa casino launches two new promotional campaigns
SportPesa casino has launched two promotions: "Every Spin Counts," which offers players a chance to win up to Sh150,000,000, and "Shinda Heavy," which provides another competitive promotional concept for casino enthusiasts.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Most Kenyans oppose government-fixed ride-hailing fares, survey finds
A TIFA Research survey shows 63 per cent of Kenyans who use ride-hailing services want fares determined by market forces rather than set by government, while only 33 per cent supported a government proposal to set minimum trip prices. The online taxi industry generated between Sh126 billion and Sh147 billion in the past year and employs between 300,000 and 350,000 active drivers.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Judge dismisses government bid to halt Nakuru market construction case
A judge has dismissed the government's objection to a Sh147.77 million case filed by Extreecon Engineering over construction of Economic Stimulus Programme Markets in Nakuru County, allowing the case to proceed to full hearing. The judge ruled that an arbitration clause could not remove the court's jurisdiction and that contract termination terms would require examination.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Kenya Sugar Board raids Kitale for smuggled and counterfeit sugar
The Kenya Sugar Board led a multi-agency enforcement operation in Kitale on August 18, 2026, impounding nine bags of suspected illegally imported and counterfeit sugar and arresting a suspect linked to a smuggling syndicate. Authorities say illicit sugar poses risks to consumers and undermines legitimate businesses.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Kenya's 40% local content law achieves only 5% in practice
The Institution of Engineers of Kenya says the government is failing to enforce local content rules in infrastructure projects, with implementation reaching only about 5 per cent of the legally required 40 per cent. The IEK president called for infrastructure contracts to require local sourcing where capacity exists and greater participation of local engineers, contractors, and manufacturers.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Mazda CX-5 dominates Kenyan roads despite reliability concerns
The Mazda CX-5 has become a common sight across Kenyan roads, from Nairobi's streets to highways linking the country's towns, establishing itself as a popular choice among motorists despite questions about its character and performance.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Infinix GT50 Pro gaming phone launches in Kenya
Infinix has unveiled the GT 50 Pro, a gaming smartphone that serves as the official gaming phone of the PUBG MOBILE Global Open Season 2 (PMGO) 2026. The device is marketed under the "Born to Win" campaign and features Hydro Flow Liquid Cooling Architecture to address overheating issues.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Kenya pursues alternative financial data for mortgage inclusion
Kenya is building an inclusive mortgage market by using alternative data—including mobile-money transactions, SACCO savings, rental payment histories, utility payments, and business transactions—to assess creditworthiness of borrowers lacking conventional payslips. The housing sector currently has over 280,000 units under construction worth approximately KSh731.5 billion, supporting more than 640,000 jobs.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
AWS invests $1 billion to deploy AI engineers inside customer firms
Amazon Web Services is investing $1 billion to establish a new team that will place thousands of AI specialists directly within customer organisations to help build and deploy agentic AI systems. The initiative aims to reduce AI deployment time from months to days and enable customers to operate these systems independently.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Kenyan brands report unexplained disappearance of colours online
Several Kenyan brands including Jumia, GA Insurance, Tecno, KCB, Glovo, and Farmers Choice reported the unexplained disappearance of colours from their digital identities. KFC Kenya suggested it may know more about what is happening, while Citizen Digital confirmed it too discovered something missing from its own colours.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Survey: 44% of ride-hailing users would switch to matatus
A TIFA Research consumer survey shows 44 percent of ride-hailing users would turn to public transport if fares rise, while only 18 percent would continue using the services regardless of price increases. The government is preparing regulations to introduce minimum compensation per trip for drivers, with consultations considering a minimum fare of around Sh400–Sh500, compared to current base fares of about Sh220.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
Kenya National Lottery Board appoints Transaction Advisor
The National Lottery Board has appointed a consortium led by RSM Eastern Africa in partnership with QLOT Consulting of Sweden as Transaction Advisor to guide the procurement of Kenya's first National Lottery Operator. The appointment follows an open international tender and includes a structured knowledge-transfer programme.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Bolt Send adds motorbikes to Mombasa delivery service
Bolt, an on-demand mobility platform, is expanding its Bolt Send parcel delivery service in Mombasa to include motorbikes alongside cars, addressing demand for faster delivery of small parcels across the city.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Kenya's banking sector assets rise 10.3% to 8.35 trillion shillings
Kenya's banking sector grew in 2025, with total assets increasing by 10.3 per cent to Ksh.8.35 trillion and customer deposits rising 9.9 per cent to Ksh.6.38 trillion, reversing the previous year's 1.6 per cent contraction.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Africa's Business Heroes selects 20 entrepreneurs for Nairobi semi-final
Twenty entrepreneurs from 12 African countries have been selected for the 2026 Africa's Business Heroes semi-final in Nairobi on August 21–22, chosen from over 24,000 applications across all 54 African countries. The semi-finalists' businesses collectively generated about $85 million in revenue in 2025, and the competition offers $1.5 million in annual grant funding alongside mentorship and business network access.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Mining & Energy
Two killed in separate mining site collapses in Machakos, Siaya
Two people died in separate mining-related incidents on Thursday: in Machakos County, two men aged 48 and 37 were killed when a wall collapsed at a sand harvesting site in Athi River South Sub-County; in Siaya County, a 12-year-old pupil died after being trapped when a gold mining site collapsed at Ojalo village.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Agriculture & Land
Kenya's land surveys shift to digital mapping and precision technology
Land surveying in Kenya is moving from traditional field methods to digitised maps and Real-Time Kinematic equipment to improve speed and accuracy in parcel identification and subdivision. The shift is particularly significant for older parcels where inaccuracies in survey records can emerge during transfers, fencing, development or subdivision.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Kipsigis clans demand return of tea estate land in 30 days
The Kipsigis Community Clans Organization has issued 30-day notices to Browns East Africa Plantations Plc, Lipton Teas and Infusions NV, and the Government of Kenya, claiming that tea estate land in Kericho and Bomet was unlawfully alienated from Kipsigis communities during the colonial period (1902–1940s) without their free, prior, and informed consent, and signalling possible proceedings before the Environment and Land Court.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Kenya plans water harvesting and dam rehabilitation for agriculture
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe says Kenya will invest in harvesting river water, building and rehabilitating dams, and drilling boreholes to increase food production and reduce dependence on rainfall as the population grows.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
East Africa urged to invest in long-term climate resilience
Vi Agroforestry has urged East African governments to move beyond emergency responses to floods, landslides and crop losses linked to El Niño, and instead invest in long-term climate resilience measures including early-warning systems, drainage infrastructure, and support for vulnerable communities and farmers. The organization warns that short-term interventions cannot address underlying vulnerabilities from land degradation, damaged watersheds and exhausted soils, and calls for greater investment in agroforestry and sustainable agricultural land management.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Society
Health Summit portrays smooth sector despite persistent challenges
A Health Summit culminating in a presidential town hall at KICC in Nairobi on August 18, 2026 presented a picture of the health docket working smoothly, even though the sector has been plagued by challenges.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Teachers carry professional responsibilities beyond school hours
Teaching is a profession built on trust, influence and example, with teachers' responsibility extending beyond the classroom gate and into their lives outside school hours.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Nearly three in ten learners lack Grade 3 literacy and numeracy skills
A 2026 Junior School Education and Senior School Survey Report shows that after seven years in school, nearly three in every 10 learners are joining Junior School without being able to read and understand a simple Grade 3 story or solve a basic Grade 3 mathematics problem.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
West Pokot children with disabilities denied school access
Children with disabilities in West Pokot County are being kept at home and denied education due to poverty, stigma, and misconceptions, with some parents using them for livestock herding or abandoning them. School officials and leaders say the situation prevents many from developing their talents, though students at Keringet School for the Hearing Impaired have demonstrated exceptional abilities in sports and music.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Family seeks justice for police officer killed at Homa Bay rally
The family of Police Constable Jim Richardson Onkundi, who died while on duty during the Linda Mwananchi rally in Homa Bay County, is demanding answers and calling for an independent investigation due to conflicting accounts from police about how he died.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
81% of Nairobi residents concerned about rising cost of living
A TIFA Research report found 81 per cent of Nairobi respondents very concerned by rising commodity prices, with worry highest among those above 35 years and men reporting greater concern than women. Transport, fuel, food and education account for 62 per cent of residents' worries.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Nurses' strike disrupts hospital services across Kericho County
An ongoing strike by nurses in Kericho County is disrupting public hospital and health centre services, leaving patients unable to access care. The dispute involves nurses under the Kenya National Union of Nurses demanding implementation of agreements with the government, including a Collective Bargaining Agreement.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
AAR Hospital performs Kenya's first Rezum prostate procedure
AAR Hospital has performed Kenya's first Rezum water vapour therapy procedure for enlarged prostate, a minimally invasive treatment using steam to destroy excess prostate tissue without surgical cuts, offering an alternative to conventional surgery and allowing patients to return home the same day.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Education Committee questions TSC nominees on teacher promotion and welfare
The Education Committee has scrutinised two nominees for the Teachers Service Commission, raising concerns over teacher promotion, welfare, staffing shortages, and records management. Nominee Wilson Sossion, a former teachers' representative, pledged to address promotion delays and develop reward systems for teachers if approved.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Ogamba defends government's university financing reforms
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has reaffirmed the government's commitment to working with private universities and defended proposed reforms to higher education financing, arguing that Kenya's existing financing system is unsustainable amid rising demand and pressure on public resources.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Four bodies recovered from Mt Ololokwe helicopter crash
A helicopter crashed at Mt Ololokwe in Samburu County on August 19, killing several high-profile individuals including Telemundo President and General Manager Jose Suarez and Ecuador's Intelligence Chief. Four bodies have been recovered so far, with three transported to Lee Funeral Home in Nairobi and the pilot's body taken to a mortuary in Nanyuki; autopsies are scheduled for Friday.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Kikuyu construction begins for digital training centre
The government has begun construction of a Jitume Centre of Excellence in Kikuyu Constituency to expand digital skills, innovation and employment opportunities for young people. The centre will provide advanced training in artificial intelligence, robotics, software development, cloud computing, cybersecurity, data analytics and digital content creation.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Matheng'eta River pollution prompts calls for investigation in Machakos
Residents of Tumutumu area in Machakos County report that the Matheng'eta River has turned green and is unsafe for domestic use or livestock, with pollution suspected to be linked to waste from an upstream organic factory deposited in nearby quarry pits. Communities are calling for investigations and intervention by authorities to establish the pollution source and protect the river.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
100 mourners fall ill after consuming food at burial ceremony
At least 100 mourners fell ill in a suspected food poisoning outbreak after consuming catered food at a burial ceremony in Inoi Ward, Kirinyaga Central Sub-County, on August 14, 2026. As of August 17, 68 patients had been treated and discharged while 14 others remained admitted; no deaths have been reported.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Twenty NPS officers recognised for bravery at Chandaria Awards
Twenty National Police Service officers were awarded at the annual Chandaria Bravery Awards ceremony for acts of exceptional bravery and service. Inspector General Douglas Kanja praised the recipients for upholding values of courage, discipline and integrity.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
Schools to reopen Monday; Ministry denies postponement reports
Kenya's Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba says schools and Teacher Training Colleges will reopen Monday as scheduled, refuting misleading social media messages claiming a delay to the academic calendar.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
TIFA survey: 81% of Nairobi households slash expenses amid economic pressure
A TIFA survey found that 81% of Nairobi households have reduced expenses due to economic pressures, with 62% citing household financial pressure as forcing compromises on transport, fuel, food and education. The cuts disproportionately affected adults aged 35 and above (91%) and females (84%).
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Government Chemist receives ISO/IEC 17025 laboratory accreditation
The Government Chemist department has formally received its ISO/IEC 17025 Testing Laboratory Accreditation Certificate from the Kenya Accreditation Service, after a three-year assessment process completed in June 2026. The ministry said the accreditation strengthens scientific evidence used in criminal investigations, court proceedings, public health decisions and regulatory enforcement.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Professor Kibwana becomes Chancellor of International Leadership University
Professor Kivutha Kibwana has assumed office as Chancellor of the International Leadership University, with Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba and former Court of Appeal President Justice Daniel Musinga praising his professionalism and academic experience. Kibwana, a Professor of Law with extensive experience in academia and public service, previously taught at the University of Nairobi and currently serves at Daystar University and the Catholic University of Eastern Africa.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
Four bodies recovered from River Ragati in two months
Residents of Njukiini-Karima village in Kirinyaga County are alarmed after four bodies were retrieved from River Ragati over the past two months, with the latest discovery made by children fishing in the river. Locals are questioning where the victims were killed and who is dumping the bodies, and are calling for increased police patrols in the area.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Water CS condemns Oyugis facility as "dead" during Homa Bay inspection
Cabinet Secretary Eric Mugaa publicly criticized the operational state of the Oyugis Water Supply Project in Homa Bay County during a joint inspection with Governor Gladys Wanga, declaring the facility "dead" and identifying critical failures including clogged sand filters that have not been maintained.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Form 3 student killed in home invasion by armed gang in Kakamega
Flora Laura, a Form Three student at Vokoli Girls High School in Kakamega County, was fatally attacked by armed assailants who broke into her family home early Thursday, striking her on the head with a blunt object. Her father said the gang demanded phones and money from him and his wife, promising to spare their daughter despite having already critically injured her; she was pronounced dead on arrival at hospital.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
DPP charges 15 men in Kisumu with preparation to commit felony
The Director of Public Prosecutions has charged 15 men in Kisumu with preparing to commit a felony and possessing offensive weapons. The suspects were arrested in Kisumu East Sub-County and allegedly found with items including knives, swords, and spanners.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
Three arrested as NANIB seizes Sh3.3 million cannabis in Narok
Detectives from the National Anti-Narcotics Investigations Bureau arrested three suspected drug traffickers in Narok after seizing 118.6 kilogrammes of cannabis valued at Sh3.3 million from makeshift structures at Narok Main Quarry. The suspects are being processed ahead of their arraignment in court.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
All seven bodies recovered from Mt Ololokwe helicopter crash
All seven bodies from a helicopter crash near Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County have been recovered by a multi-agency search and rescue team. Samples have been collected for forensic examination as investigators seek to establish the cause of the accident.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Two charged over Ksh.1.5 billion PROFIT programme fraud case
Charles Cheruiyot Maiyo, director of Kaplan Logistics Ltd, and Auma Ritah Otieno, sole proprietor of Ritasshell Enterprises, appeared before the Anti-Corruption Chief Magistrate's Court facing three counts each of unlawful acquisition of public property, acquisition of proceeds of crime, and money laundering related to a Ksh.1.5 billion fraud case linked to the PROFIT programme. Maiyo is accused of unlawfully acquiring Ksh.4,960,310 from a PROFIT bank account for services allegedly not rendered.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Kenya Scouts Association questions Ksh.2B Nyeri scouting centre
The Kenya Scouts Association has raised concerns over a proposed Ksh.2 billion Baden-Powell Scouting Centre of Excellence in Nyeri, demanding clarity on the project's funding, ownership, governance and implementation. The project is being promoted by the World Scout Parliamentary Union Kenya Chapter in partnership with Nyeri County government, with support from the Korea Scout Association and South Korea's embassy, but KSA says it was not involved in its development.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Bungoma judiciary commends SHOFCO's work with SGBV survivors
Bungoma's judiciary has praised SHOFCO's intervention in supporting sexual and gender-based violence survivors. A mother in the county described how her Form Three daughter's sexual abuse case was compounded by cultural beliefs, including the perpetrator's family suggesting marriage as a "solution."
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Culture
Heha Movers: Kibera-based viral comedy group satirizing corporate culture
Heha Movers is a comedy group from Kibera gaining social media traction with deadpan satire of corporate jargon, neighbourhood logistics, and urban life. Led by self-proclaimed CEO Waho and other characters, the group presents absurd satirical services including relocation, transport, and parodied micro-loan schemes.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Sport
KCB Rugby coach Amonde focuses on club after Shujaa exit
Kenya Rugby Union terminated Andrew Amonde's contract as a strength and conditioning coach with Kenya Sevens, citing a contractual clause preventing national team coaches from holding similar positions at club level. Amonde, now focused on his role with KCB Rugby, said he will not dispute the dismissal and intends to give the club his full attention.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Belgut Half Marathon races in Kericho to fund educational scholarships
Over 5,000 runners will compete in the 2026 Belgut Half Marathon on August 23, featuring races of 21km, 10km, and 5km with top prizes of Sh500,000. The event, organised by Belgut MP Nelson Koech, aims to raise funds for bursaries and educational scholarships for bright, needy, orphaned and vulnerable students.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Kenya must build scientific support to sustain athletic success
Kenya's athletic talent is plentiful, but the country lacks the scientific infrastructure—physiologists, nutritionists, data analysis—that rival nations use to develop and sustain medal-winning careers. Without proper screening and laboratory support, Kenya loses athletes to preventable injuries and doping, while foreign competitors exploit Kenyan altitude and trails to gain advantage.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
KDF and Police clash in third National Boxing League leg
The National Boxing League's third leg takes place on Thursday in Vihiga County, with league champions Kenya Police seeking to close an 11-point gap against Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), who lead the standings with 49 points. Boxers are competing for places in the national team for international assignments before year-end.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Kenya triumphs in boys' and girls' hockey at FEASSA games
Kenya secured hockey gold and silver medals at the 2026 FEASSA games in Tanzania, with St Anthony's Boys Senior School Kitale defeating defending champion Kakungulu Memorial in the boys' semi-final. Kenya's teams will compete for gold in tomorrow's finals, with St Joseph's Girls facing Ng'iya Girls in the girls' final.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
National Assembly passes bill criminalizing match-fixing in sports
The National Assembly passed the Sports (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which criminalizes match-fixing and manipulation of sporting competitions, imposing penalties including lifetime bans from competitions or regulated gaming and jail time. The bill aims to protect athletes and public confidence in sporting events.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Kenya volleyball teams advance to East Africa school games semis
Kenya's Kesogon Mixed Senior School and St Martha's Mwitoti topped their pools in the preliminary round of the East Africa school games in Morogoro, Tanzania, positioning themselves for semi-final matchups. National bronze medallists Mwitoti, chasing their maiden East Africa title, and silver medallists ACK Chepsaita remain in contention for the boys' title.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Tottenham in talks with Man City for Savinho, Marmoush
Tottenham Hotspur are in talks with Manchester City to sign forwards Savinho and Omar Marmoush, according to British media reports. Savinho made just seven Premier League starts last season, while Marmoush fell out of favour under former manager Pep Guardiola.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Premier League chief Webb vows crackdown on set-piece grappling
English football's chief refereeing officer Howard Webb has warned Premier League clubs to expect stricter officiating on grappling and holding during set-pieces next season, citing too many unpunished instances last season. Arsenal drew particular attention for their set-piece expertise, with rival managers and fans complaining about their wrestling tactics.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Shabiki.com Sponsors 5th Patron's Cup Golf Tournament
The 5th Edition of the Patron's Cup, Kenya's premier inter-club golf championship, will take place at Muthaiga Golf Club from August 21–23, 2026, with 15 clubs competing across five divisions. Shabiki.com has committed 1 million shillings as a key sponsor, marking the third consecutive year of support for the tournament, which is held in honour of the late President Mwai Kibaki.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Kane wins second European Golden Shoe, targets Ballon d'Or
Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane received his second European Golden Shoe after scoring the most goals in Europe's top divisions last season. The 33-year-old said he hopes to win the Ballon d'Or after what he calls his "best season ever," during which he scored 73 goals for club and country.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Top seeds Sabalenka and Zverev ousted at Cincinnati Masters
World number one Aryna Sabalenka lost to Czech player Sara Bejlek 7-6 (9/7), 6-4 in the fourth round, while Alexander Zverev fell to American Tommy Paul 4-6, 7-6 (8/6), 6-4 at the Cincinnati Masters.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Sports Fund sought to fund karateka Musoga's Japan tournament
The Hombu Dojo Karate International Kenya has appealed to the Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund for financial support to enable karateka Goodric Musoga to represent Kenya at the HDKI International Cup 2026 in Gotemba, Japan, scheduled for September 9–20, 2026. Musoga earned the invitation following a championship performance at the HDKI International Tournament in Ireland in 2024.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Cardinal Otusha Mosocho wins maiden FEASSSA Rugby 7s title
Cardinal Otusha Mosocho clinched their first Rugby 7s title at the Federation of East African Secondary School Sports Association (FEASSSA) Games in Morogoro, Tanzania, defeating Uganda's Busoga College 41-0. Head coach Isaac Omweri warned opponents to expect an even more dominant squad next year.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Lee and Baena guide Atletico past Malaga in La Liga opener
Kang-In Lee and Alex Baena scored second-half goals from outside the box to give Atletico Madrid a 2-0 win over Malaga in their La Liga season opener, with Julian Alvarez unavailable as he recovers fitness after the World Cup break.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
PSG begin Ligue 1 title defence, chasing third Champions League
PSG open their Ligue 1 campaign against Rennes on Sunday as favourites for a sixth successive title, while also targeting a third consecutive Champions League crown. The club won a record-extending 14th French top-flight title last season and the Champions League begins September 8.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Mourinho returns to Real Madrid, eyes Barcelona supremacy
José Mourinho begins his second spell at Real Madrid, tasked with restoring the intensity of his 2010–2013 reign and deposing Barcelona as Spain's leading club. The Portuguese coach takes charge after Real Madrid went two seasons without a major trophy, with recent managerial instability leaving the club unable to balance its attacking stars Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Nairobi City Thunder maintain unbeaten run with commanding victory
Nairobi City Thunder defeated Umoja Basketball 90-50 in the Kenya Basketball Federation League, extending their unbeaten record. Derrick Ogechi and Tylor Ongwae each scored 16 points for Thunder, who have two remaining regular-season games this weekend.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Commonwealth Sport President backs Kenya's 2029 World Athletics Championships bid
Commonwealth Sport President Donald Rukare has endorsed Kenya's bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships, citing the country's sporting heritage, experience, and ability to nurture young athletes. Rukare made the comments during the launch of the ANOCA Zone 5 Youth Games in Nairobi, saying such competitions help develop the next generation of athletes for major championships including the World Athletics Championships and Olympic Games.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Lampard backs Coventry to defy relegation odds in Premier League
Coventry City manager Frank Lampard has challenged his side to follow the survival blueprint of Sunderland and Leeds, who finished seventh and 14th respectively last season, as Coventry prepare for their first Premier League game in 25 years against Arsenal on Friday despite being installed as relegation favourites.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
African volleyball championship relocated from DRC to Tunisia
The 2026 Men's African Nations Volleyball Championship has been moved from the Democratic Republic of Congo to Tunisia due to an Ebola outbreak, with the tournament now scheduled for September 13–26 in Tunis instead of September 7–21 in Kinshasa. Kenya is among sixteen countries competing in the championship.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Cabinet Secretary urges Harambee Stars to match Kenya's AFCON infrastructure
Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has assured Kenyans that the government is mobilising resources to assemble a competitive Harambee Stars squad capable of claiming a historic first-ever continental title at next year's Africa Cup of Nations, with the Raila Odinga International Stadium at 94% completion as of August 2026.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Van Dijk demands Liverpool improve after poor season
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has called on the team to make amends for an "unacceptable" campaign in which they finished fifth in the Premier League, lost 19 of 56 matches across all competitions, and failed to win a trophy before manager Arne Slot was sacked.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Verstappen signs Red Bull contract extension until 2030
Four-time Formula One world champion Max Verstappen has signed a new contract with Red Bull Racing until the end of 2030, ending speculation over his future in the sport.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Arteta targets best club status as Arsenal defend Premier League title
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has declared his intention to build the club into "the best club in the world" as the Premier League champions begin their defence against Coventry, with Manchester City's era potentially ending after Pep Guardiola's resignation.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Marathon record-holder Makau urges state pensions for retired athletes
Former world marathon record holder Patrick Makau has called on the government to establish a pension scheme and housing support for athletes, arguing that current cash rewards (Ksh 5 million for world records, Ksh 3 million for gold medals) are insufficient to prevent retired national stars from falling into financial hardship.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
AFCON 2027 will bring lasting infrastructure and economic gains
The Pamoja AFCON 2027 Joint Local Organising Committee Chairman Nicholas Musonye said hosting the tournament alongside Uganda and Tanzania will leave Kenya with improved sporting facilities, tourism opportunities, and trade benefits across the region.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Nigerian striker Mbaoma joins Tusker for debut season
Tusker FC's new Nigerian striker Victor Mbaoma, signed on a one-year deal, aims to help the club win their first league title in four years after finishing ninth last season. Mbaoma arrives with a 25-goal record from the Nigerian Premier Football League.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Faith Kipyegon ends season due to hamstring injury
Middle-distance star Faith Kipyegon has ended her 2026 season due to a hamstring injury sustained since late May and will miss the inaugural World Athletics Ultimate Championship in Hungary in September. The three-time Olympic and four-time world 1,500m champion finished third in the women's mile in Eugene in July and fourth in the women's 3,000m before deciding to prioritize recovery.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Senegal women's volleyball arrives for African championship
Senegal's women's volleyball team arrived in Nairobi on Wednesday to prepare for the 2026 CAVB Women's African Nations Volleyball Championship, running August 23 to September 5 at Kasarani Indoor Arena and Ulinzi Complex Langata, where the top team will qualify for the 2028 LA Olympic Games.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Wanyonyi, Cherotich lead Kenya at Diamond League Lausanne
Olympic medallists Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Faith Cherotich headline Kenya's team at the Athletissima Diamond League meeting in Lausanne on August 21, as the circuit resumes after a one-month break ahead of the Diamond League Final in Brussels on September 4–5.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Tourism & Environment
Kenya prepares as El Niño threatens above-normal rainfall
Following the October-November-December forecast release, Kenya is focusing on preparedness for El Niño rainfall that is expected to cause devastating floods across the country. North Eastern, Coast, and central Kenya regions are expected to receive rains five times heavier than normal seasonal rainfall.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Climate stakeholders convene in Kitale for national literacy campaign
Climate change stakeholders are meeting in Kitale, Trans-Nzoia County, for a three-day National Climate Literacy Campaign 2026 bringing together learners, teachers, youth, government agencies, civil society and private-sector players to promote climate knowledge translation into practical action and community-led environmental solutions.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Rwanda invested RWF 23 billion in community projects near parks
The Rwanda Development Board announced that RWF 23 billion, equivalent to more than Ksh.2 billion, has been invested in nearly 1,300 community projects near the country's national parks, supporting schools, health centres, water infrastructure, and livelihood initiatives. The projects are funded through Rwanda's Tourism Revenue Sharing Programme, which allocates 10% of tourism revenue to community development in areas surrounding protected areas.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
El Niño ocean pattern reshapes East Africa's rainy seasons
El Niño is a natural climate pattern in which surface waters in the central and eastern Pacific warm well above average, part of a larger climate cycle called the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) that oscillates between three states and reshapes weather patterns globally and across East Africa.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Ministry proposes separating tourism levy collection from funds management
The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has proposed that the Tourism Fund retain responsibility for collecting levies from hotels and restaurants while the Cabinet Secretary oversees management of the funds, in order to improve efficiency and transparency. The 2% revenue levy currently supports government-owned tourism institutions including the Kenya Tourism Board and Kenya Utalii College.
20 August 2026 · Capital News →
Ministry proposes separating tourism levy collection from fund management
The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has recommended that the Tourism Fund continue collecting levies while the Cabinet Secretary assumes oversight of fund management and disbursement, to enhance efficiency, transparency and accountability. The two per cent levy is currently collected from regulated hotels and restaurants and disbursed to government-owned tourism institutions.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
World & Region
Xi pushes China-Ecuador cooperation on Belt and Road
Chinese President Xi Jinping told Ecuador's president that the two countries should strengthen development strategy synergy and implement Belt and Road cooperation plans across energy, minerals, infrastructure, finance, digital economy, green development, new energy and artificial intelligence.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
China's healthcare system evolves from barefoot doctors to high-tech medicine
As China marks its ninth Doctors' Day, the country's healthcare workforce has transformed from rural "barefoot doctors" carrying basic medicines to a vast system operating advanced medical centres with artificial intelligence, surgical robots, and brain-computer interface technologies.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Prince Harry plans surprise return to UK with family
Prince Harry and Meghan plan to leave the United States by the end of the month and settle in a private, non-royal residence outside London, six years after their departure sparked a rift with the royal family. Their two children have already been enrolled in a British school, though commentators speculate the move follows unsuccessful ventures in Hollywood and may reflect a desire to reconcile with King Charles III.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Drone strike on Ethiopia's Tigray capital wounds 13
A drone strike on Mekelle, the Tigrayan capital, wounded at least 13 people including five children on Thursday, according to a hospital official, amid escalating tensions between federal and Tigrayan forces in Ethiopia's troubled northern region.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
DR Congo receives 70,000 doses of Ervebo vaccine for Ebola response
The World Health Organization said the Democratic Republic of Congo would receive 70,000 doses of Ervebo vaccine — approved for the Zaire strain but not the Bundibugyo strain spreading in the country — for a clinical trial and use among frontline and health workers responding to an outbreak that has recorded more than 5,000 cases and over 2,300 deaths since being declared three months ago.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Romania destroys drone near offshore gas field
Romania's F-16 fighter jet destroyed a marine drone loaded with explosives near the Neptun Deep offshore gas project on Thursday. Romania's president blamed Russia for the incident, which he characterized as part of escalating hybrid warfare by the Russian Federation.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Seven killed in Samburu helicopter crash, including Ecuador spy chief
A helicopter crashed in Samburu County on Wednesday, killing seven people including Michele Sensi-Contugi, Ecuador's Director General of the Strategic Intelligence Center, and his wife Stephany Hollihan. The other victims were pilot Josh Outran and Americans Roger Duarte, Adam Halvaty, Henry Parra, and Jose Suarez, a Telemundo media executive.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
US sanctions ICC president, citing corruption and politicisation
The United States sanctioned ICC President Tomoko Akane and trial lawyer Abdoulaye Seye, calling the ICC "corrupt and fatally politicised"; the ICC responded by calling the sanctions a "flagrant attack" on court independence, with EU officials voicing support for the court's autonomy.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Helicopter crash near Mt Ololokwe kills Ecuador intelligence chief
A Eurocopter EC130 B4 operated by Lady Lori Helicopters crashed near Mount Ololokwe in Samburu County, killing seven people including Ecuador's intelligence chief Michele Sensi-Contugi, his wife, and four American tourists.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Tanzania suspends newspaper for six months over report alleging government divisions
Tanzania's information ministry suspended weekly newspaper Mwanahalisi for six months, citing alleged breaches of media law after it published a story alleging the vice-president was unwilling to step down following pressure from the ruling party. International observers have warned of narrowing civil and political rights in the country.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Iran warns Gulf states against US military support
Iran's armed forces warned Gulf countries against assisting the US military after the UAE announced it was severing economic ties with Tehran following Iranian attacks on shipping. The Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint despite a recent lull in US-Iran hostilities.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
UN condemns Russia's ban on anti-war party from elections
The UN's human rights office expressed alarm at Russia's Supreme Court decision to bar Yabloko, one of Russia's oldest political parties, from September's parliamentary elections, and the sentencing of its deputy chair Lev Shlosberg to over 11 years in prison for anti-war speech.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Trump threatens economic consequences for Iran support
U.S. President Donald Trump warned of economic consequences against any country providing "any type of lifeline to Iran" as the U.S. seeks to resolve a war begun alongside Israel nearly six months ago, with two ceasefire agreements announced in April and June having quickly collapsed.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Trump plans to meet North Korea's Kim later in 2026
US President Donald Trump said Wednesday he would meet Kim Jong Un later this year to revive their relationship, stating that Pyongyang now has 57 "very powerful" nuclear weapons. The move has alarmed Asian allies and sparked speculation about Trump's foreign policy strategy amid a stalling Iran war.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Four workers struck by train in Japan; unconscious
Four workers were hit by a train at Shin-Kanuma Station north of Tokyo on Thursday while removing weeds from around the track. All four were unconscious when emergency services arrived, with three initially trapped under the train and one on the platform.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Pope Leo appoints Kenyan Lucy Afandi to Vatican development role
Lucy Afandi Esipila, Regional Coordinator for Caritas Africa, has been appointed as one of 12 new Consultors to the Vatican's Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development by Pope Leo on August 18, 2026. Afandi is the first woman and youngest person to serve as Regional Coordinator of Caritas Africa.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Kenyan media association mourns Telemundo executive in helicopter crash
The Media Owners Association of Kenya issued condolences following the death of José Alberto Suárez, President and General Manager of Telemundo's television stations in Florida, in a helicopter crash in Samburu County that killed seven people. The MOA noted Suárez's career spanning more than two decades and his influence on Kenyan media through Telemundo content distributed by member stations.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →
Opinion
Religious leaders face difficult healing task in Homa Bay
An opinion piece in The Standard describes the difficult task facing religious leaders in Homa Bay County to address the aftermath of violence in which people lost lives, sustained injuries, and property was destroyed.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Africa's aviation safety extends beyond accident prevention measures
The article argues that public perception of aviation safety in Africa is often measured solely by accident incidents, but the industry's safety challenge encompasses broader systemic issues beyond individual mishaps.
20 August 2026 · The Standard →
Opinion: Social market economics and Kenya's future economic model
An opinion piece explores what form of "Savanna Capitalism" Kenya needs as part of debates on the country's post-Vision 2030 economic direction, noting that public engagement with policy frameworks like the "Road to Singapore Report" typically comes late in the process.
20 August 2026 · Citizen Digital →