KRA surpassed its Ksh2.555 trillion collections target, recording a performance level of 100.6%, surpassing the Ksh2.41 trillion that it had raised in the last financial year.

Suspension of the Finance Bill 2024, however, affected local collections, which were below the target of Ksh1.72 trillion to Ksh1.68 trillion. The taxman, however, managed to compensate for the shortfall in other areas where there was good performance.

One of such areas was revenue from exchequer, which rose by 4.5% to Ksh2.32 trillion from Ksh2.22 trillion last year. This translated to a 99% performance rate against the Ksh2.34 trillion target.

Revenue Growth Despite Headwinds

The strong showing came in the face of strong economic headwinds, particularly in the first half of the year (July–December). Tight banking lending rates, foreign trade tensions, and global rows all slowed business activity. These were compounded by public outrage against the Finance Bill, which was eventually withdrawn.

The economic impact was visible in trade performance. The growth in imports stagnated, rising only 0.04%, due to steep declines in fuel and lubricants (-16.4%) and food and beverages (-14.6%). Exports dropped by 2%, driven primarily by the decline in horticulture (-2.5%) and tea (-15.4%).

Credit access was also tight because commercial banks kept lending rates up, further tightening the private sector and dampening investment.

Yet, KRA regained its footing in the second half of the year.

“Notwithstanding these challenges, KRA’s robust measures yielded a significant revenue collection turnaround in the second half of the financial year. Revenue grew by 9.1 per cent compared to the 4.5 per cent growth recorded in the first half of the financial year,” said Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga.

Customs, VAT and Betting Lead Revenue Gains

Collections at the customs beat targets as KRA collected Ksh879.33 billion against a target of Ksh830.37 billion, which is a performance rate of 105.9%. This is an improvement of 11.1% over last year, a fact that indicates that Kenya is a net importer of goods, most of them from China.

Collections of local VAT also rose to Ksh327.3 billion, a 4.2% increase from the same period last year. VAT collections in the second half of the year were Ksh178.96 billion, up from the first half’s Ksh148.37 billion. Wattanga said this was due to increased compliance efforts, including the tightening of VAT registration checks and confirmation of declarations.

The gambling sector turned out to be a surprising star performer. Excise tax from betting activities brought in Ksh13.23 billion, exceeding the target by Ksh1.95 billion. Betting tax also posted strong numbers, collecting Ksh5.7 billion against a target of Ksh5.4 billion, a sign that the sector is now a consistent revenue stream.

Mixed Results in Income and Corporate Taxes

Pay As You Earn (P.A.Y.E) collections reached Ksh560.9 billion, reflecting a modest 3.3% growth. KRA attributed the slow pace to a weak formal job market, as both public and private sectors scaled back hiring due to economic uncertainty.

The growth in PAYE was also dampened by taxpayers using adjustment vouchers to offset their liabilities and policy shifts, including the reclassification of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) and Housing Levy as deductible allowances instead of tax reliefs.

Corporation tax fell short of expectations, bringing in Ksh304.8 billion against a Ksh321.08 billion target. The bulk of this revenue came from Kenya’s major sectors – ICT, finance, real estate, manufacturing, and wholesale and retail.

On the other hand, domestic excise tax closed the year at Ksh69.38 billion, with beer and tobacco manufacturers posting a decline in revenue of 13.9% and 8.9% respectively. KRA blamed the decline on counterfeit and illicit trade, which still haunt excise-sensitive industries.

In a bid to counter this, the authority pledged to boost compliance enforcement, particularly in sectors under threat from illegal trade.

Eyes on 2025/26 Target

Looking ahead, KRA has a still more daunting task of raising Ksh2.75 trillion in the 2025/26 budget year to help finance Kenya’s Ksh4.3 trillion national budget.

As economic pressures are also poised to persist, the authority will rely on a combination of policy reforms, technology adoption, and compliance enforcement to achieve this goal and keep Kenya’s fiscal juggernaut on the move.

The taxman has embraced technologies like the Electronic Tax Invoice Management System (eTIMS), which has significantly reduced VAT fraud, boosted tax compliance, and made it easier for businesses to file and pay VAT. The system has also helped widen the tax base and increase overall revenue collection.

The post KRA Beats 2024/25 Target Despite Tough Economy and Withdrawn Finance Bill appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

The President challenged his opponents to come with better alternatives to the many challenges facing the young generation besides sloganeering.

“I want my plan of creating employment opportunities for our young people to be tested against that of my competitors,” he said on Thursday.

He made this remark when he received Nairobi United Football Club, winners of the 2025 Mozzart Bet Cup, at State House, Nairobi.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja and Chairman of Nairobi United Football Club Samwel Born Maina attended the event.

President Ruto clarified that the Constitution obliges him to protect the lives and property of every Kenyan, something he pledged to do letter by letter without fear or favour.

“For now, I am the protector of the Constitution and I will make sure that it is obeyed to the letter,” he clarified.

The President hailed Nairobi United Football Club for their unprecedented win, saying they shocked Kenya’s football giants in their pursuit of glory.

“You have committed yourself to the cause; you have overcome challenges; you have stayed the course and now we celebrate you,” he went on.

Vowing to gift the club a bus, Ruto also pledged to support it in every possible way as it works towards reaching higher sporting heights.

Noting that young people are the nation’s most valuable asset, President Ruto said the government is purposefully investing in education and training to direct their potential into productive channels.

The President further said the government is keen on advancing sporting infrastructure across the nation as outlined in the Kenya Kwanza manifesto.

The Head of State further rebuked attempts by goons to vandalise the Talanta Stadium in the recent riots as unpatriotic.

At the same time, Ruto said that the government is launching various policies and programs to make Nairobi more habitable for its residents and tourists.

He explained that the de-polluting of the filthy Nairobi River is progressing well and is on schedule to be completed by 2027.

President Ruto added that the government would partner with Nairobi to clean up trash and improve the road infrastructure within the city.

“Nairobi being the headquarters of the United Nations Environmental Programme means that we have to make Nairobi clean by all means,” he said.

The post Ruto Throws Down the Gauntlet: Compare My Youth Agenda to My Opponents’ appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

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In an interview at a local TV station on Thursday, July 10, 2025, Ogola explained that the opposition is targeting speedy action by recording cases in which protesters were shot or injured.

“At the moment I am saying this, but you may not realise it in every scene where shooting is taking place, we have cameras capturing everything in detail. They are undercover, and you cannot tell who is taking the footage. We are collecting enormous data,” he said.

Ogola revealed that in nearly all of the locations where violence or shootings were occurring, undercover teams were already on site recording real-time videos and photos, sometimes without security agents or the individuals involved in the clashes knowing.

Fred Ogola said that the evidence being gathered is extensive and forms a good and growing pool of evidence to be applied in ongoing efforts towards seeking accountability.

Witness Protection Plan

He said the evidence will be uploaded to an online portal that is central and backed by a witness protection program to shield the victims and informants from assault as they testify.

He noted that all the data is being securely stored on a centralized online platform, which the opposition plans to make publicly accessible through their official website. This portal will allow citizens across the country to submit their own reports and accounts of abuse.

“If you go to our website, there will be a portal where anyone can upload any case, and we will link it with the evidence we have already collected. So no one can say there is not enough evidence,” Ogola explained.

According to him, each submission will be cross-referenced and verified against the video and photographic documentation already captured by undercover teams, ensuring credibility and accuracy.

Ogola asserted that the opposition is determined to leave no room for impunity, insisting that every claim of abuse must be backed by solid evidence and all offenders brought to book.

He explained that the group is in the process of building watertight cases that could not be dismissed for lacking documents.

A core element of this job, he added, is building a robust witness protection system in order to safeguard those who testify with evidence or information that can be very crucial.

Ogola cited President William Ruto’s previous International Criminal Court (ICC) case as an example, mentioning witness intimidation and absence of protection as being at the core of its failure.

“We are also working on how to protect and secure witnesses, because that is the reason Ruto’s ICC case never succeeded.”

Shift from ‘Kumi Bila Break’: Opposition Prioritizes Action Over Ambition

Ogola at the same time revealed a significant shift in strategy within the opposition camp, led by figures such as JB Muturi.

He said the opposition has moved away from the long-term political mantra of “kumi bila break” – a slogan suggesting a ten-year uninterrupted leadership plan – and is now prioritizing immediate action to address the hardships Kenyans are currently enduring.

Ogola explained that after holding internal consultations, it became clear that the ongoing suffering faced by ordinary citizens could not be ignored in the name of future political ambitions.

“The united opposition, in their wisdom, decided that instead of waiting for power under slogans like ‘kumi bila break’, they needed to act now,” he said.

“Before, you would hear them sounding like, ‘when we take power…’, but after a meeting with JB Muturi, who is our chair, we discovered that the issues affecting Kenyans are painful right now. Waiting to take power is not the solution.”

The post Fred Ogola: Opposition Secretly Collecting Real-Time Evidence of Police Brutality During Protests appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

The step-by-step guide, released on Tuesday, July 8, is the company’s effort to empower users with instant solutions to frequent meter faults while also showing when it is best to enlist the help of experts.

Find Below a List of the 7 Common Token Meter Errors and How to Fix Them;

Error #1: CIU Screen Is Blank? Here’s What to Do

If your Customer Interface Unit (CIU) screen goes completely blank, don’t panic. Here are a few simple steps you can take to get it back up and running:

First of all, confirm whether there is electricity in your house or not.
If there is no electricity, simply wait for electricity to be restored.

Confirm whether the main switch is ON or not.
Sometimes the issue may be as simple as a flipped breaker.

Make sure the CIU is plugged into a wall outlet correctly.
Avoid using extension cords- plug it into the wall directly for the strongest connection.

Replace batteries with new, heavy-duty alkaline ones.
Dead batteries will blank or freeze the screen.

Still not working? Try loading your token from a neighbor’s house.
Take your CIU to a neighbor who shares the same power line and plug it directly into their wall socket.

Why this works:
If your houses are on the same electricity line, your CIU can still communicate with your meter, even from a different socket, allowing you to load your tokens successfully.

Error #2: “CONN FAIL” Appears on Your CIU? Try These Fixes

If your CIU displays the “CONN FAIL” error, it means it’s having trouble connecting to your meter. Here’s how to troubleshoot it:

Plug the CIU directly into a wall socket.
Avoid using extension cables, as they can disrupt the signal between your CIU and meter.

Check your batteries.
eplace low-quality ones with new ones that are high-quality alkaline batteries. Weak batteries are typically the reason for connection failure.

Still not working? Test it at a neighbor’s house.
If your neighbor is on the same power line, plug your CIU into their wall socket. This may help re-establish communication with your meter.

Pro tip:
This method works because meters on the same power line can still receive signals from a CIU, even if it’s plugged in next door.

Error #3: Seeing a “PLC Error” on Your Display? Here’s What to Do

If your CIU or meter shows a “PLC Error,” it means that there’s been a communication breakdown between the two units. Here’s how you can fix it in an instant:

Plug the CIU directly into a wall socket.
Avoid using extension cables as they often interfere with proper signal transmission during token loading.

Double-check all connections.
Make sure the plugs and wires are properly and tightly plugged.

Minimize interference.
Keep the CIU away from other electronic devices that could disrupt its signal.

Why it matters:
A strong and stable connection ensures your tokens load smoothly and your CIU communicates properly with the meter.

Error #4: Meter Not Responding When Loading Tokens? Try This

If your meter fails to connect or respond when you try to load a token, here are a few quick steps you can take:

Replace the batteries.
Replace worn-out batteries with new, heavy-duty alkaline ones so the CIU is fully powered to function optimally.

Plug into a wall socket directly.
Avoid using extension cables; direct wall connections help maintain a strong and stable signal.

Look for the blinking red light on your meter box.
This light confirms the meter is active and ready to communicate with your CIU.

Check the circuit breaker.
Make sure your breaker is turned ON. If it’s off, the meter won’t receive power or respond.

Error #5: “BYPASS” Warning on Your Meter? Stop—Don’t Try to Fix It!

If your meter displays a “BYPASS” error, do not attempt to resolve it yourself. It is an electrical malfunction that needs to be addressed by an expert. Trying to fix it on your own can cause more damage or even land yourself in legal trouble.

What to Do Instead: Report It Immediately
*Dial 977# or open the MyPower App and select the “Faulty Meter” option.
You can also call 97771 to file an official report.

Upon reporting, Kenya Power will arrange a certified technician to investigate and fix the issue safely.

Remember: Bypass errors involve complex electrical systems. Let the experts handle it!

Error #6: Loose Glass on Your Postpaid Meter? Act Fast!

If you notice that the glass on your postpaid meter is loose or appears to be damaged, report as soon as possible. This affects accurate meter readings and poses a safety risk.

Don’t attempt to fix or touch the glass yourself. Leave it to expert technicians.

How to Report It:
Dial *977# or use the MyPower App, selecting the “Faulty Meter” option.

Kenya Power will have a technician come and assess and fix the problem safely.

Error #7: “TAMPER” Alert on Your Meter? Don’t Ignore It!

If your meter shows a “TAMPER” error, this means that the system has experienced interference or unauthorized entry.

This is not an issue you need to try to fix yourself, it requires a professional assessment.

What You Should Do: Report It Immediately
*Dial 977# or go to the MyPower App and choose the “Faulty Meter” option.
Or call 97771 to lodge an official report with Kenya Power.

A trained technician will be sent to your location to test and rectify the problem safely.

Important: Tamper alerts are taken seriously. Let the professionals handle it to avoid further complications or penalties.

The post How to Fix Common Token Meter Errors: KPLC Shares Handy Tips appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Aukot expressed concern that Ruto’s tone and statements, especially his pledge to stop anti-government protests using whatever means that is available suggest a leader under intense pressure.

“I see frustrations in government because all of the government policies have failed. I see an angry president. You can’t govern a country with such an attitude,” Aukot said during an interview on Citizen TV.

“In fact, some people are saying…I think Ruto needs to check into a mental facility to be analysed because some of the things he is saying are worrying.”

Aukot also criticized the government for failing to respond to the public’s outcry and instead turning its security forces against citizens demanding change.

He accused the State of pushing a false narrative that the country is descending into anarchy, using that as justification for increasingly aggressive tactics.

“The government is sponsoring a false narrative that there is a state of anarchy in Kenya and hence the use of words like enough is enough, shoot to kill, shoot in the leg, and that is because Kenyans are invoking their sovereign power under article 1 to say the people we elected to represent us have failed us in many ways,” he said.

Ruto Faces ICC Threat Over Shoot-to-Injure Order

His remarks followed a controversial directive by President William Ruto, who recently told police officers to shoot looters in the leg during anti-government protests.

Speaking on Wednesday while commissioning a police housing project in Nairobi’s Kilimani area, Ruto urged law enforcement not to kill, but rather to “shoot and break the legs” of anyone caught engaging in violence or destruction of property during demonstrations.

President Ruto’s comments also sparked sharp criticism from former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who accused him of lacking compassion and basic humanity.

Gachagua condemned the President’s shoot-to-injure directive, saying it showed disregard for the lives of ordinary Kenyans. He also decried the rising cases of police killings during recent protests, pointing out that Ruto had not even offered condolences to the families of those who lost their lives on Monday.

He added that he and other concerned Kenyans plan to take action on the international stage.

“You have even gone further to add insult to injury by directing them to shoot innocent Kenyans on the legs. You could not even send condolences to the dead. You lack feelings and humanity. We shall report you not to the Kenyan police but the International Criminal Court an address you are familiar with,” Gachagua said.

The post ‘He Needs Mental Assessment’ – Aukot and Gachagua Slam Ruto Over ‘Shoot to Injure’ Protest Remarks appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

The video, which was posted by Mosiria on his social media platforms Thursday, generated instant backlash, especially from the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC). Through a strongly worded statement on Thursday, July 10, the Commission decried the act as a direct disregard of the rights of the minors.

NGEC emphasized that sharing images or videos of vulnerable children online not only breaches their right to privacy and dignity but also puts them at risk of further harm and public humiliation.

“Children are not content,” the Commission stated. “Public officers parading vulnerable children online violate their rights and further stigmatise rather than support. A camera lens should never replace compassion, policy, or protection.”

In the now-controversial video shared on his social media platforms, Mosiria is seen walking alongside one of the street-connected boys while questioning him about his refusal to attend school. The footage also shows Mosiria scolding and manhandling the boy before patting him down to expose a bottle supposedly contining th jetfuel.

Mosiria captioned the video with a call to the public, urging them to help identify and locate the boys’ parents or guardians. He claimed the children were not only struggling with substance abuse but were also contributing to sanitation challenges within Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD).

“Removing them from the streets not only helps save their lives but also contributes to keeping the CBD clean,” Mosiria wrote. “Many of them are used by shop owners to illegally dump garbage, and the places where they sleep are often left littered with the materials they use as bedding.”

Although his purpose may have been to raise awareness, critics argue that the video deprived the child of their right to privacy and exaggerated public stigmatization without offering significant help.

Citing Article 53 of the Constitution and the Children Act (2022), NGEC reminded public officials that all children must be shielded from detrimental exposure as well as exploitative profiling.

The Commission painted a grim picture of the reality facing many vulnerable children, noting, “Over 46,000 children in Kenya live on the streets, often invisible, marginalised, and criminalised. Many face abuse, addiction, neglect, and systemic discrimination.”

NGEC called on Nairobi City County and the Department of Children Services to take urgent and coordinated action, noting that what these children actually need is not public shaming but rehabilitation, shelter, and psychosocial care.

The post “Children are not content” – Geoffrey Mosiria Warned for Filming Street Children appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Oxfam included Nigerian businessman Aliko Dangote, who is the wealthiest man on the continent, as one of the four. While the report did not specify the others, Forbes has them as Johann Rupert and Nicky Oppenheimer, the South African billionaires, and Egyptian entrepreneur Nassef Sawiris.

According to the report, Africa’s billionaire class has seen their fortunes soar by 56 percent over the past five years, with the richest among them recording even larger gains. Oxfam argues that this growing concentration of wealth is no coincidence – it is a direct result of government policies that benefit the elite while neglecting the needs of the poor.

Nearly half of the 50 most unequal countries in the world are in Africa, the report noted. Oxfam pointed out that most African governments have failed to adopt progressive tax systems that would require the wealthiest to pay a fair share.

“Most African countries are not fully leveraging progressive taxation to effectively tax the super-rich and address inequality,” the report stated.

But the responsibility doesn’t fall on African leaders alone. Oxfam also blamed the International Monetary Fund for promoting regressive policies that exacerbate inequality. The report also implicated illicit financial flows, particularly the use of offshore tax havens which enable wealthy individuals and corporations to hide vast amounts of money abroad.

The charity warned growing inequality is sapping democracy, slowing the elimination of poverty, and driving the climate emergency. It said the wealthy use politics to serve themselves, hijacking policies for the poor and undermining public institutions.

In the largest democracy in Africa, Nigeria, Oxfam provided an illustration of how inequality prevents political participation. According to the report, political parties’ expensive nomination fees to stand for election exclude ordinary citizens from contesting seats and lock leadership into the hands of the elite.

And vote-buying remains widespread in countries where tens of millions of individuals live in abject poverty, further eroding democratic institutions across the continent.

In spite of the setbacks, Oxfam says nearly 90% of African countries since 2022 have stepped back from significant policies on taxation, workers’ rights, and minimum wages – policies the agency says are crucial to closing the inequality gap.

In order to reverse this, Oxfam is calling for a complete overhaul of tax authorities right across Africa. The charity revealed that current tax systems right across the continent are nearly three times worse at redistributing income from the wealthiest one percent than the global average.

The report further indicated that Africa loses approximately $88.6 billion each year due to illicit financial flows, including tax evasion and the use of offshore financial havens to conceal assets.

Oxfam’s review of the tax policies of 151 nations revealed that Africa was the only continent where nations have not increased effective tax rates since 1980, which underscores the immediate need for reform in order to tackle the widening wealth gap.

The post Oxfam: Four African Billionaires Hold More Wealth Than Half of Continent’s Population appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

This is a welcome development for the team, which had been stuck at the 111th position most of 2025. The switch is a reflection of the team’s progress and greater stability since March when it started being led by McCarthy.

National team rankings are calculated by FIFA based on the significance of matches as well as opponents. More points are given for victories against stronger opponents, which has the effect of pushing the teams further up the world table.

Kenya’s neighbors are also keeping up with growth indications. Tanzania made a giant leap to position 103, beating countries like Armenia, Tajikistan, and Comoros. Meanwhile, Uganda remains at the top of the East African region at position 88.

Harambee Stars’ recent revival has occurred in a period of transition, with South African legend Benni McCarthy bringing fresh energy and strategic know-how to the side. Kenya already signaled a change with only four matches under his leadership.

McCarthy’s reign began with a 3-3 dramatic draw against The Gambia on 20th March coming back from 2-0 down. This was followed by a 2-1 narrow loss to Gabon in Nyayo Stadium.

During the June international break, Kenya played out a goalless draw with Chad before securing their first win under McCarthy – a 2-1 victory in the reverse fixture. That win boosted team morale and showed the squad is beginning to click under its new coach.

Kenya’s improved FIFA ranking also improved their African ranking. They are currently 26th in the CAF and climbed by one spot, bringing them closer to regional rivals.

The Harambee Stars will now shift focus to the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024), which is being hosted by Kenya alongside Uganda and Tanzania. The championship presents a golden opportunity for the team to build on recent progress and play under home support.

Kenya are set to begin their CHAN 2024 campaign on August 3 against DR Congo. As momentum builds and morale increases under McCarthy’s stewardship, the Harambee Stars seek to convert their momentum into a successful campaign on the continental front.

The post Harambee Stars Break Into Top 110 in FIFA Rankings Under Coach Benni McCarthy appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

The deal, which covers the 2024/25 season, will see matches from the English Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, and Bundesliga available to millions of Kenyan households who cannot afford pay-tv subscription fees.

This development is particularly significant in Kenya’s media landscape, where premium sports content has traditionally been the preserve of pay-TV platforms.

A 2023 report by the Communications Authority showed that only about 15% of Kenyan households subscribe to pay-TV services, leaving the majority reliant on free-to-air stations for sports content.

TV47, part of the Cape Media stable that also includes Radio47, has been strategically positioning itself as Kenya’s premier sports destination.

The station’s recent acquisition of Kenyan Premier League rights and successful coverage of the FIFA Club World Cup demonstrated its sports broadcasting capabilities.

Now available on multiple platforms including SIGNET, PANG, ZUKU, GoTV, DSTV, and StarTimes, TV47 reaches an estimated 8 million viewers weekly according to industry estimates.

SportyTV’s entry into the Kenyan market follows its successful launches in other African countries. The broadcaster has developed a reputation for making premium sports content more accessible through innovative partnerships with local free-to-air stations.

In Kenya, they’ve chosen to work with the relatively young but ambitious TV47 rather than established players, signaling confidence in the station’s growth potential.

Radio47 will complement the television coverage with live commentary and analysis, particularly valuable for fans who are mobile or in areas with limited television access.

The station’s nationwide FM network reaches even remote parts of the country that digital television signals sometimes struggle to penetrate.

The post TV47 & Dubai-based Sporty TV Brings European Football to Kenya’s Fans, for Free appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

A viral video captured the harrowing moment Barasa shot Kariuki in the head at close range, sparking national outrage. Kariuki was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital and admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where he fought for his life for two weeks. He sadly succumbed to his injuries on Monday, June 30.

The DPP confirmed in court that the murder case has been formally filed at the Milimani Law Courts. Barasa is expected to be arraigned today, Friday, July 11, before High Court Judge Justice Kimondo.

Magistrate Ben Mark Ekhubi ordered Barasa to remain in custody pending his arraignment.

“The first respondent will be remanded awaiting his arraignment before the High Court on the murder charges that have been preferred by the DPP,” he ruled.

Barasa’s co-accused, Duncan Kiprono, also filmed at the scene, was released after the DPP dropped charges against him.

“Following information by the DPP, the second respondent herein will be at liberty unless otherwise,” Magistrate Ekhubi added.

With the murder charge now progressing to the High Court, the Magistrates Court has closed the miscellaneous application related to the case.

Meanwhile, a requiem mass was held in Kariuki’s honor at All Saints Cathedral in Nairobi on Wednesday. His family remembered him as a kind, hardworking man who lost his life while earning an honest living.

They also requested continued financial support to take care of funeral costs. Kariuki will be laid to rest next Friday at his family’s home in Kangema, Murang’a County.

The post Constable Klinzy Barasa Charged with Murder Over Boniface Kariuki Shooting appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Allan Kirawa Ogola was brought before the Milimani Law Courts on Thursday, accused of embezzling Ksh7,986,742.25 in the course of one year – March 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024 – during the time he served as the company’s agent.

The funds were meant for remittance to the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) as housing levy and Pay As You Earn (PAYE) tax on behalf of the firm. Instead, Ogola allegedly failed to submit the funds, breaching his fiduciary duty.

“Allan Kirawa Ogola, on diverse dates between March 1, 2023, and March 31, 2024, in Nairobi County, being an agent of Mkondo wa Afrika Ltd, stole a total sum of Ksh7,986,742.25, which had been entrusted to you for remittance to the Kenya Revenue Authority,” the charge sheet read.

Ogola denied the charges before Senior Principal Magistrate Ondieki. The court released him on a Ksh1 million bond with two sureties or a cash bail alternative of Ksh200,000.

He was first arrested on June 14, 2025, and initially released on a Ksh50,000 cash bail pending investigations.

The complaint was lodged by Ahmed Sidgi Kaballo on behalf of Mkondo wa Afrika Ltd.

The matter will be heard on July 24, with full hearing resuming on August 18, 2025.

The post KRA Tax Theft: Nairobi Agent Accused of Pocketing Millions Meant for PAYE and Housing Levy appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Social media is where the world talks, shares, and fights for change today. For young Africans—the future of this continent—it’s where we learn, connect, and make our voices heard.

But here’s the problem: Africa doesn’t have a truly democratic, uncensored social media platform that genuinely reflects what we think and feel.

Instead, we’re stuck on platforms controlled by outsiders or governments that often silence us or twist our stories.

That needs to change—and fast.

Fact: Social Media Is Everything

Let’s be honest: social media is where we live now. Whether it’s Twitter, WhatsApp, TikTok, or Facebook, these platforms are how we get news, share ideas, and organize around the issues that matter.

From fighting for justice to celebrating our culture, social media is our megaphone.

Movements like #RhodesMustFall in South Africa and youth protests in Kenya wouldn’t have grown without social media. It’s not just about memes; it’s real activism demanding change.

Social media lets us challenge the status quo, hold leaders accountable, and push for a better future.

For many, these platforms are also key to education and opportunity. We use them to learn skills, connect with peers, and find jobs.

In places where traditional media is limited or biased, social media lets us tell our own stories, in our own words.

Roadblocks: Let’s Face It, We Have a Problem

Technology is great, but social media in Africa faces challenges. Governments sometimes shut down the internet or block content, often to stop fake news or hate speech.

While these concerns are real, such actions limit freedom and cut off communities from important conversations.

This control slows innovation and stops people from sharing ideas freely.

Privacy is another problem. Many African countries lack strong data protection laws, leaving us open to surveillance and hacking.

When we don’t feel safe online, it’s hard to speak openly or honestly. These issues make social media less democratic than it could be.

Countries like Russia and China have some options for local social media, though the governments are known to control and manipulate what content reaches the people’s eyes.

Add to that the fact that these foreign actors often interfere with international platforms too, and it becomes even harder for us to trust what we see online, ultimately drowning African youth voices in particular. 

A better option for our region would be a platform where people feel conversations are real and open, which exists in some places to fit local languages and cultures.

But, for Africans, the challenge is not just having a platform but creating one made and managed by users themselves.

This could finally give African youth as a whole a real chance to speak freely.

The Missing Piece: Our Authenticity

The big platforms aren’t made by or for us. They’re run by companies or governments far away, so our voices get lost or silenced.

Their rules and algorithms don’t reflect African realities and can be manipulated by political or commercial interests.

What we need is a social media platform created by African youth, for African youth. A transparent, fair, censorship-free space where we can speak without fear and set the rules ourselves.

Imagine a platform where moderation is democratic, no one can silence dissent, and data privacy is a priority.

This platform would amplify true African voices and provide a safe space for dialogue and action.

It would reflect Africa’s diversity and give every young person a chance to be heard.

Hope: A Light at the End of the Tunnel

The tech to build this platform exists—blockchain, decentralized apps, and open-source software can make social media transparent, secure, and user-controlled.

Some African innovators are already exploring these ideas.

But it’s not just tech. We need youth-led governance to set fair rules and hold platforms accountable.

Governments must protect digital rights like freedom of expression and privacy. International partners should respect Africa’s digital sovereignty.

Building this won’t be easy. It needs young people, tech experts, civil society, and policymakers working together.

But if we succeed, we can create a digital space that truly belongs to us—a place where African youth can organize, innovate, and lead without fear.

Now: It’s Time to Step Up

We’re the generation shaping Africa’s future, and social media is our tool. But current platforms don’t listen or reflect us—they often silence or limit us.

It’s time to build a new African social media platform that’s open, democratic, and free from outside control. A space to speak honestly, organize freely, and be heard.

One that shows genuine, unfiltered content reflecting what we believe in.

This platform would empower young Africans and boost democracy, unity, and innovation.

We have the passion and numbers—we just need the will and tools. Let’s claim our space online because Africa’s youth deserve a real voice.

The post Why We Desperately Need A Real Voice On Social Media appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

The State Corporations Appeal Tribunal determined that Mutua’s monthly salary was irregularly raised from Ksh.348,840 to Ksh.1.1 million – a massive increase that was maintained for three years. The tribunal declared the salary change irregular, unauthorized, and contrary to public service regulations.

The case followed a probe by the Inspectorate of State Corporations, which discovered that Mutua’s contract had been renewed in 2018 despite the Sports Cabinet Secretary rejecting the extension. The investigators also established that the board granted Mutua the salary hike on a “personal to holder” basis, contrary to public service regulations requiring the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) to approve such a change.

The tribunal also noted that Mutua was not a passive recipient of the salary increase, he was actively involved in the board meetings where the increase was approved. This, the Inspectorate argued, was a clear conflict of interest and contrary to ethical norms of governance.

“Inspectorate of State Corporations noted that the board’s decision to increase the CEO’s salary … on a ‘personal to self’ basis was unlawful and irregular and that Mr. Mutua ought to be surcharged as a consequence, having sat in the Board and benefited directly.”

KFCB Bypassed SRC and Cabinet Secretary

According to the Inspectorate of State Corporations, the KFCB board bypassed the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), the only body authorized to determine salaries for public officers.

Despite clear opposition from the Cabinet Secretary, who directed that the overpaid funds be recovered, the KFCB board failed to act, prompting the Tribunal to step in and resolve the matter.

In his defence, Mutua, once famously dubbed Kenya’s “moral policeman” during his tenure at the helm of KFCB, maintained that he was not to blame. He argued that the board renewed his contract and awarded him the salary increment, and that he had no reason to believe it was irregular.

“I continued to work and earn a salary without any objections, reservations and or queries from the Cabinet Secretary,” he told the Tribunal. “It made me believe that I was discharging my duties legitimately and had been properly appointed by the board.”

Despite his explanation, the Tribunal found both Mutua and board member Nehemiah Koech liable for facilitating the unauthorized salary increase. Koech had reportedly supported the decision to grant Mutua the inflated pay package.

The decision underscored a failure by the KFCB board to follow established legal procedures and fulfil its duty to protect public funds. The Tribunal concluded that Mutua’s active role in the process made him accountable for the financial loss.

The post Ezekiel Mutua Must Pay Back Ksh.27 Million After Unlawful Ksh1.1Million Salary Hike appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

His assertion follows a court case by the Katiba Institute that the government had acted illegitimately in suspending basic constitutional freedoms during the July 7 protests. Police had on that day shut off main roads into Nairobi in a bid to keep Saba Saba protesters from accessing the city center.

Related – LOCKDOWN: Police Seal Off Nairobi CBD Ahead of Saba Saba

In a Wednesday ruling, Justice Lawrence Mugambi concurred with the petitioners that the National Police Service had violated basic constitutional rights – that is, freedom of movement, assembly, and peaceful demonstration, as provided for by Articles 37 and 39 of the Constitution.

“Pending the hearing of the application,” the judge said, “a conservatory order is hereby issued restraining the Inspector General of Police and his officers from suspending Articles 37 and 39 of the Constitution by cancelling, disrupting, or interfering in any way with the right to assemble, protest, or picket while peaceful and unarmed.”

Ruto: You Can’t Protect Protest Rights and Ignore Property Rights

Speaking shortly after the ruling at State House, President Ruto pushed back strongly, insisting that the right to protest must not come at the expense of other citizens’ safety and property.

Ruto said that the constitution not only guarantees the right to assemble and protest but also guards against the protection of property and security of others during such protests.

He further stated that law enforcement agencies should do everything in their power, including setting up roadblocks and employing teargas and water cannons, to prevent criminal elements from taking over protests and resulting in destruction.

“Nimeona ati leo kuna mtu kortini amesema ati Inspector General ya polisi asiweke roadblock, asitumie teargas, asitumie water cannon kuprotect mali na maisha ya Wakenya wengine na huyo mwenye anasema hiyo, kwake kuna askari wanamchunga,” he said.

(Translation: I’ve seen someone in court today, saying the Inspector General shouldn’t set up roadblocks or use teargas and water cannons to protect property and the lives of other Kenyans, yet that same person is guarded by police at their own home.)

“Shoot Looters in the Leg” – Ruto’s Tough Talk

In one of his most controversial statements yet, President Ruto said anyone caught destroying property during protests should be shot in the leg, hospitalized, and then face the law.

“They are supposed to be used to protect the lives and property of other Kenyans when they are in danger,” he said, referring to teargas and water cannons.

The president’s hardline stance didn’t stop there. Speaking earlier at Kilimani Police Station, where he was inspecting a police housing project, Ruto issued a stern warning to those he accused of plotting to remove him from power through unconstitutional means.

“I want to tell those characters giving us lectures that they can change this administration using violence and unlawful means before 2027—let them try,” he said defiantly.

He warned that Kenya is a democratic state and leadership transitions must happen at the ballot box, not through street chaos or violent disruption.

“This is a democratic nation and Kenyans will choose the nation’s leadership through the ballot,” he said. “We cannot choose leadership through violence. That is not going to happen in this country.”

Ruto Questions Unrest Targeted at His Government

The president also questioned why his administration seems to be facing more unrest compared to previous regimes. He lashed out at critics who, he said, have remained silent under past governments but are now stirring tension under his leadership.

“They are telling me about Moi… he was a president, the same way Kibaki was a president, same as Uhuru,” Ruto said. “So where is all this coming from? That is nonsense!”

He added: “Why didn’t they cause chaos during Kibaki’s or Uhuru’s time? Why are you causing this during my time? That needs to stop.”

“Enough Is Enough” – President Vows to Maintain Order

Ruto vowed that his administration will continue to enforce law and order and go after those responsible for inciting or funding violence.

“Those who were found looting people’s businesses will be dealt with by the law. They will all be arrested, and we are going for those sponsoring them,” he declared.

He also drew a firm line on attacks against police stations and law enforcement, calling such acts a “declaration of war.”

“Anyone going to attack a police station in Kenya—that is a declaration of war,” he said. “It is not acceptable. Enough is enough. I will protect the property and the lives of Kenyans.”

The post Ruto Defends Police Tactics, Slams Court Over Protest Roadblock Ban appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

The post Hilarious Memes Trending in Nairobi This Thursday appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Gachagua accused Ruto of being directly involved in profiling the Kikuyus during the 2007 post-election violence, and as president, continuing what he describes as an “unfinished mission.”.

“History is repeating itself, and the architect William Ruto is back on the deck. He is hell bent to finish his unfinished business with the people of Mt. Kenya. Destroy their businesses and make them black sheep of Kenya,” Gachagua said on Wednesday.

He made the remarks while addressing a press conference soon after Ruto addressed recent protests. Gachagua claimed that the government had targeted Kikuyu-owned businesses deliberately to economically marginalize the Mt. Kenya region.

He also claimed that the state is using terrorism charges selectively to criminalize people from his community. He cited the case of Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, who along with several of his allies, now faces allegations of terror financing and inciting violence. He claimed the state is using these charges as tools of political persecution.

“When a police station in Mawego (Homa Bay) was torched, suspects were charged with arson,” he said. “But when a police station is torched in Kiambu suspects from the Kikuyu nation are charged with terrorism.”

Gachagua: ‘Killer Squad, Militia Used to Silence Mt. Kenya Region’

Gachagua went on to accuse the government of orchestrating a violent scheme during the Saba Saba protests, alleging that a well-organized militia was deployed to inflict harm and destruction—only for the blame to be pinned on the Kikuyu community.

According to Gachagua, the militia was strategically dropped in parts of the Mt. Kenya region on the night of July 6, just before police erected barricades.

“The militia were procured by Ruto, governors and MPs allied to him.”

Gachagua admitted that the alleged “killer squad”, a shadowy group of 101 officers, was formed while he was still in government. He indicated the unit now operates under the command of National Intelligence Service (NIS) Director General Noordin Haji.

He referred to a viral video that surfaced from the July 7 protests, showing masked, armed men shooting at protesters in an unidentified location. According to Gachagua, the masked men in the video belong to the same squad.

He further alleged that the unit was supplied with an unmarked Subaru vehicle to create the impression that it was a team from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

“NIS has procured Subarus to give an impression that it is the DCI shooting and maiming. This squad of 101 people was formed when I was still in government. Officers were recruited from the administration police unit for special training by NIS on abductions, killings and cover ups,” he said.

‘Relax Mr President,’ Gachagua Denies Plot to Oust Ruto

At the same time, Gachagua rubbished claims that the opposition is scheming to topple President William Ruto’s government. He clarified that the “wantam” movement is not calling for an unconstitutional takeover of power.

“We want to advise you that the wantam movement is not getting you out of power outside the Constitution,” Gachagua said. “Mr President, nobody wants to overthrow your government, nobody wants you out of power through unconstitutional means.”

He further stated that the opposition’s desire is plain and legal: to remove Ruto out of power through the ballot in the 2027 general election.

Gachagua criticized the president for suggesting that his government is being plotted against, describing it as a manufactured lie to justify political persecution.

“Nobody wants you out of government unconstitutionally. We want to face you on the ballot in August 2027, so just relax,” he said.

The Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader further urged President Ruto to show restraint and focus on addressing the underlying issues fueling the nationwide protests.

“Mr Ruto, I want with a lot of humility to advise you to stop being angry. That will not help you,” Gachagua said.

“You need to know what you need to do. The people of Kenya are more angry than you are.”

The post Gachagua Accuses Ruto of Reviving 2007 Ethnic Profiling Agenda Targeting Kikuyus appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Speaking during an interview on Spice FM, Natembeya said the government has become increasingly unresponsive to the frustrations of ordinary Kenyans and is instead hiding behind the power of the police – an approach he says is unsustainable.

He questioned the government’s readiness to handle a major uprising if ignored grievances escalate.

“If today one million Kenyans walked to State House, what are they going to do? Are they going to kill everybody?” he asked.

Natembeya argued that many leaders build a false sense of security around themselves while forgetting that true power ultimately rests with the people.

“All these walls we build around ourselves as leaders are fake. They can just crumble. At the end of the day power is with the people,” he said.

Natembeya Urges Economic Reform, Says Youth Unemployment Is Driving Unrest

He urged President William Ruto to urgently address the growing wave of discontent, warning that ignoring public frustration only signals poor leadership. Natembeya called on the president to put his house in order before the situation worsens.

The governor also identified economic hardship and youth unemployment as core drivers of national unrest. He urged the government to initiate bold reforms and create sustainable opportunities for young people, warning that the crisis is approaching a dangerous tipping point.

“We have done a huge disservice to this country. We are not supposed to be where we are now where unemployment is almost at 60%. Chances of you living a lifetime without a job in Kenya are very real, not because you haven’t gone to school. It’s because you can’t get a job,” he said.

He warned that young people are growing increasingly desperate and angry, yet leaders continue to downplay their concerns.

“And that is what the young people are talking about,” he said. “We are taking it very casually and we think because we are leaders we are very safe.”

The post Natembeya Warns Ruto: You Can’t Police Your Way Out of Public Outrage appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Ichung’wah was responding to Gachagua’s earlier press briefing, where the ousted DP claimed that the recent attacks on a police station and the Kikuyu Law Courts were staged to implicate his political allies and portray them as criminals.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Wednesday, the Kikuyu MP blasted the claims as “pure madness,” accusing Gachagua of spreading hate and inciting chaos in a desperate attempt to shield his inner circle—who Ichung’wah insists were clearly captured on video committing criminal acts during the June 25 anti-government protests.

He held nothing back in blaming Gachagua for his own political downfall.

“The only person responsible for Gachagua’s political failure is Gachagua himself. His downfall was not engineered by anybody other than himself. It was brewed in his pot by his politics of lies, intimidation, and calculated chaos,” he said.

Ichung’wah Defends Arrests of Gachagua Allies

The Kikuyu MP furhter addressed claims that recent arrests of Rigathi Gachagua’s allies are politically motivated, insisting the charges stem from “clear, damning evidence” linking them to violence and looting during the June 25 anti-government protests.

He singled out Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, alleging he was filmed mobilizing gangs to loot Spur Mall on Thika Road. Ichung’wah also revealed that protestors targeted his home and that of his elderly parents in Kikuyu during the same protests, which he believes were politically incited by Gachagua’s loyalists.

“Gachagua’s allies, whom he has sponsored and shielded, are not victims. They are perpetrators, charged in courts of law. Justice is not found at press conferences or on social media; it is found in the courtroom.”

He credited neighbours and police officers for thwarting the attempted arson at his family’s properties.

“Thanks to my neighbours and patriotic officers, an attempt to torch my house and that of my parents was repulsed.”

Ichung’wah dismissed Gachagua’s narrative of political persecution as a desperate distraction from looming legal consequences. He warned the former Deputy President against dragging President William Ruto or himself into his troubles.

“Don’t mistake accountability for persecution… Name-dropping the President or me will not rescue Gachagua or his co-conspirators. Kenya sees through the madness,” Ichung’wah said.

In a sharp rebuke, he added, “It’s not politics anymore, it’s pure madness… He’s not just wetting his pants in fear; he’s drowning in his own deceit.”

At the same time, Kimani Ichung’wah doubled down on his support for Rigathi Gachagua’s impeachment, defending Parliament’s decision as a necessary move to protect the country from political thuggery.

“It was not President William Ruto nor Kimani Ichung’wah who got him impeached. He got himself impeached. Through violence. Through lies and through pure political thuggery. And today, Kenya sees why,” Ichung’wah stated.

The post ‘He Dug His Own Political Grave’ – Ichung’wah Responds to Gachagua’s Allegations appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Mvurya said that the government has finalized all the travel arrangements for visiting teams, officials, and visitors going to the tournament. He announced to the public that there will be no visa problems since the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) exemption has been gazetted and is now operational.

“Already we have announced travel arrangements where the ETA exemption has already been gazetted and granted and therefore we don’t expect any challenges on Visa requirements for those who will be coming here for the tournament.”

As part of readiness preparation, the organizing committees conducted simulation exercises in various departments, including hospitality and event management. Mvurya said the drills helped identify and plug potential gaps ahead of the championship.

“Each of the committees did a simulation exercise for example those in hospitality and those in charge of a number of events run through a simulation exercise,” Mvurya said.

He added that the final phase of preparations is currently underway, with major logistical and operational elements already in place to guarantee a successful tournament.

On matters of security, Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya revealed that a major orientation session for security personnel is scheduled for July 16. This session aims to reinforce the outcomes of earlier simulation exercises conducted to assess the country’s readiness for the African Nations Championship (CHAN).

“We have already done a simulation on matters of security and on the 16 of July we will have a big on security where we will continue to orient,” Mvurya said.

He also urged Kenyans to embrace unity and patriotism as the country gets ready to host the continental championship. The championship, Mvurya added, presents a golden chance to showcase Kenya’s potential in tourism, trade, and hospitality.

“This is an opportunity for national pride and our moment to shine in areas of tourism, trade and hospitality and Kenyans, we need to take these activities to continue uniting our country,” he said.

The post Kenya Finalizes CHAN 2024 Preparations with Security Drill and Visa-Free Entry for Visitors appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

According to Africa Uncensored’s Deep Dive newsletter, the accusations point to a teacher who serves as the school’s Christian Union Patron as the perpetrator.

FIDA-Kenya expressed concern over the shocking reports and pledged unwavering solidarity to the brave students who spoke out boldly.

“These reports are not just shocking, they are heartbreaking,” said FIDA-Kenya Chairperson Christine Kungu on Monday.

“We are appalled that a person charged with guiding and mentoring students could instead use that position to allegedly harm them. These young women have shown tremendous courage by speaking up, and we stand with them.”

Kungu pointed out that the survivors’ testimonies reveal more than isolated incidents, but a systemic pattern of neglect and abuse by those charged with the responsibility for the safety of the students..

“What we are hearing from these students points to years of unchecked abuse and silence. It reveals an institutional failure to respond, act, andprotect. That is not just unacceptable. It is dangerous,” she said.

The organisation urged institutions across the country to employ the case of the Alliance Girls High School as an eye-opener.

“That this may have happened in one of the country’s most respected schools for girls makes it even more disturbing,” Kungu said.

“Schools should be places where children grow, learn and feel safe, not spaces where abuse is allowed to continue in silence.”

FIDA-Kenya referred to the Constitution to remind the government and schools that it is their responsibility to ensure that all students gain knowledge in a safe and secured environment.

The group further stated that it is currently providing legal and psychosocial support to the victims. It further asked for others who have also been victimized in the same manner to step forward.

“We want every girl who has experienced abuse to know that she is not alone. We will walk with you, support you, and fight for your right to justice and healing.”

FIDA issued a strong call to action, which urged the Alliance Girls High School, as well as the Ministry of Education, to act quickly and with precision.

It asked the Board of Management of the Alliance Girls High School to carry out an urgent and transparent investigation into the allegations. The organization also called on the Ministry to take decisive disciplinary and legal action against anyone who may have enabled or turned a blind eye to the abuse.

“The school must account for what happened,” Kungu said. “The Ministry must lead from the front in making sure this never happens again.”

The team called on the Ministry to make all schools have clear gender-based violence policies. It emphasized the need to provide mandatory training of teachers in the prevention and response to abuse and to create safe, accessible means of reporting by students.

“Justice delayed is justice denied,” Kungu said. “We must protect our children, not tomorrow, but now.”

She added that survivors from Alliance Girls or any other school can reach out to FIDA-Kenya for support through their toll-free line 0800 720 501 or by email at info@fidakenya.org.

The post FIDA-Kenya Demands Justice After Sexual Abuse Allegations at Alliance Girls appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

When Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania co-host the

The event presents a historic opportunity to boost regional economies, upgrade sports infrastructure, and position East Africa prominently on the continental football map.

For Kenya, in particular, CHAN 2025 offers a once-in-a-generation platform to unlock long-term benefits across multiple sectors.

Showcasing Talent, Building Depth

Unlike other major tournaments, CHAN exclusively features home-based players. This provides local talent with a rare chance to shine on a continental stage, attracting attention from scouts, clubs, and international markets.

The tournament is also a platform for national teams coaches to identify players who can graduate into the senior squads.

More Visitors, More Business

With matches spread across three countries, the tournament is expected to attract thousands of fans, media personnel, and officials. This cross-border format opens new opportunities in regional tourism.

Travel agencies can develop CHAN-themed packages that combine match attendance with visits to popular destinations such as the Maasai Mara, Diani Beach, and Mt. Kenya.

The impact extends beyond tourism. Local businesses—hotels, restaurants, boda-boda riders, Uber drivers, tour guides, market traders, and artisans—stand to benefit directly from the increased foot traffic. Every hotel room booked, meal served, or souvenir purchased contributes to economic circulation, especially within hospitality and informal sectors that rely heavily on seasonal income.

Long-Term Infrastructure Gains

To meet CAF’s hosting standards, key venues in Kenya are undergoing extensive upgrades. Kasarani Stadium, Nyayo Stadium, Police Sacco Stadium, and the Kasarani Annex have all seen massive upgrades, including pitch improvements, modern lighting systems, enhanced security, and expanded spectator amenities.

These investments will serve local clubs and national teams long after CHAN concludes.

Sporting and Commercial Legacy

Beyond the matches, CHAN 2025 is a credibility test for Kenya and the wider East African region. A professionally executed tournament will demonstrate the organizational and logistical capacity needed to host larger events, such as the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2027 or future international tournaments.

Increased visibility could also attract commercial partnerships and long-term investment in local football ecosystems. Broadcasters, sponsors, and international scouts will be closely watching how the region performs—both on and off the pitch.

Visit Flashscore for Live Football Scores.

The post How Hosting CHAN 2025 Is a Big Win for East Africa appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

A total of 5,826 marriage were legally registered in Nairobi, which is 39.6% of all marriages registered in the country last year. The capital’s supremacy is a testimony to its role as the country’s number one center for legal marriages.

Other leading counties in regards to marriage registration numbers were Kiambu (4,844), Machakos (4,807), Nakuru (3,819), and Uasin Gishu (3,179). Collectively, the five represented a significant percentage of Kenya’s total marriage registrations for 2024.

But while thousands of marriages were reported in some counties, others had not even crossed a dozen. Only 8 marriages were reported for Wajir, then Turkana (16), Lamu (20), Garissa (21) and Tana River (22). KNBS noted that these counties have been reporting fewer than 10 marriages annually between 2020 to 2024.

The report also observed regional differences in marriage trends in the last five years. Nairobi posted steady growth, with marriages going up from 3,796 in 2020 to 5,826 in 2024, a show of increasing popularity of formal union in the city.

Kiambu County on the other hand showed less consistency. With 1,098 weddings in 2021, the numbers slightly picked up to 1,235 in 2022, before falling sharply to 747 in 2024.

Machakos saw a more stable upward trend, with 813 weddings in 2023 rising to 1,112 in 2024.

Marriage Registrations Drop Nationally

At the national level, Kenya saw its registered marriages spike dramatically between 2020 and 2023, reaching a high of 20,600 in 2023. That rate slowed some in 2024, with 15,045 marriages registered as of Dec. 31, data reported to the Office of the Attorney General and Department of Justice indicated.

In marriage types, Christian and civil marriages dominated. Christian marriages hit their peak in 2021 at 13,456 registrations, and civil marriages hit their peak in 2023 at 7,185.

The remaining two, customary and Hindu marriages, were far fewer. The customary marriages were only 11, registered within a period of five years, eight being in Kwale and three in Kisumu, while the Hindu marriages were 18, spread evenly in Nairobi and Mombasa.

It also reported 359 marriages with no specified type, mostly in Nairobi (217) and attributed to data entry errors by KNBS, where it advised that Kenya’s system of marriage registration should enhance digital accuracy.

The post Nairobi Tops 2024 Marriage Registrations as National Numbers Decline appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

The Senate threw out the motion on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, citing procedural flaws in how the County Assembly initiated the process.

In a social media statement the following day, Governor Guyo welcomed the ruling and stated reconciliation was imperative, adding the time had come to heal and shift efforts to building a stronger Isiolo.

“The Senate resolution serves as a powerful reminder of the need for unity, justice, and people-centred leadership,” he said. “It marks a time for healing and a renewed focus on serving Isiolo with integrity and inclusivity, reaffirming that truth has prevailed and that we must now move forward together.”

He acknowledged the ethnic and political diversity of Isiolo and urged residents to see each other as one people with shared goals.

“Isiolo’s diverse communities must embrace their shared identity and unity. Regardless of background, origin, or political affiliation, we are one people, brothers and sisters, bound by common dreams of peace, opportunity, and a better future,” his statement added.

Governor Guyo also appealed to all elected leaders, from MCAs to MPs and the Senator, to work collaboratively for the county’s progress.

“Our residents are looking to us for leadership, not division. Let us unite our efforts, channel our energy into service delivery, and ensure that every corner of Isiolo feels the impact of good governance. The time for blame and polarisation is over; the time for unity and progress is now.”

The impeachment motion brought by the County Assembly accused Governor Guyo of gross misconduct, abuse of office, and violations of constitutional and statutory provisions.

Among the allegations were claims that he stalled key development projects, missed revenue targets, and bloated the county executive by appointing 36 advisors and 31 chief officers despite Isiolo receiving the third-lowest revenue allocation nationally.

He was also accused of issuing two-year contracts to chief officers, a move the Assembly argued created uncertainty and fear within county operations.

The post Governor Guyo Says Time for Blame Is Over After Surviving Impeachment Motion appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

The report gives a gloomy indication of the health of the country’s children. It indicates that premature delivery and birth asphyxia, when the infants experience difficulty in breathing during birth, combined resulted in 4,112 deaths in 2024 among children.

In addition, 2,816 children lost their lives due to pneumonia, an easily treatable and preventable respiratory infection, the third leading cause.

Together, these three conditions were responsible for more than 6,900 of the 20,156 under-five deaths that occurred in health facilities across the country last year, a testament to the continued challenges of Kenya’s maternal and child healthcare systems.

Prematurity, which refers to births before 37 weeks of gestation, and birth asphyxia are avoidable if pregnant women have good antenatal care, skilled birth attendants, and neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Health experts believe that increasing antenatal services, safe delivery, and postnatal services would greatly reduce these deaths.

KNBS also noted that these top causes of child mortality affected girls and boys nearly equally, with hardly any difference by gender.

“Prematurity and asphyxia have persistently been the top child killers over the last five years” the report stated, emphasizing the need to invest immediately and specifically in maternal and newborn health.

Pneumonia, though very treatable, still plagues children in both urban and rural areas, across economic and gender divisions. Health workers say early detection, vaccination, and timely treatment are key to reversing its deadly impact.

Other Less Prevalent Causes of Child Mortality

In addition to the top three, the report also mentioned other causes of deaths among children under five, albeit not as prevalent. These are neonatal infections, sepsis, gastroenteritis, anaemia, and malaria, all diseases which remain fatal, especially where access to health care remains low.

UNICEF estimates Kenya’s under-five mortality at the present time as 41 deaths per 1,000 live births, far above the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) benchmark of 25 by 2030.

The Kenyan government is being urged by health campaigners to act fast. They are pushing for increased funding in primary healthcare, expanded newborn care services, and greater outreach in rural areas.

“This report is a wake-up call,” KNBS warned. “We must invest more in primary healthcare and ensure no child dies from preventable causes.”

The post Pneumonia Among Top 3 Causes of Child Deaths in Kenya – Report appeared first on Nairobi Wire.

Not all screen time is wasted time. Some video games push memory in ways flashcards never could—layering logic, movement, timing, and storytelling into a type of mental training that actually sticks.

One less obvious but increasingly relevant example is crypto poker.

On platforms such as Coin Poker Australia, players use memory to track hand patterns, make snap decisions, and recall betting behavior over dozens of fast-paced rounds.

Since it’s crypto-based, gameplay is fast, flexible, and doesn’t rely on traditional banking systems, giving players more autonomy and less friction.

From adventure games to puzzle apps, memory-focused titles come in many shapes.

But the real gains happen when play becomes consistent, and just challenging enough to spark attention without tipping into frustration.

Games that challenge short-term memory

Fast-paced puzzle games like Lumosity, Peak, and Brainwell are built specifically for memory training.

They present color sequences, word recall drills, and object-tracking tasks that change with each level.

These micro-challenges work like memory reps—training the brain to hold and manipulate more info at once.

Over time, players start remembering more and reacting faster, even in non-gaming situations.

Spatial recall from open-world titles

Large adventure games like Skyrim, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, or Hogwarts Legacy don’t offer obvious “memory challenges,” but try finding your way back to a dungeon entrance after two hours of exploring.

These titles rely heavily on mental mapping.

Players subconsciously build geographic memory by moving through complex digital worlds.

And those skills—like orienting by landmarks or remembering hidden passages—translate to real-world spatial reasoning.

Music and rhythm for pattern memory

Games like Beat Saber, Just Dance, or Rhythm Doctor demand that players recognize patterns quickly and recall them under time pressure.

They blur the line between short-term memory and muscle memory.

Memorizing beats or step patterns helps lock those sequences into the brain, even if the songs or steps change.

This can benefit auditory and motor recall simultaneously.

Strategy titles to train working memory

In turn-based games like Civilization VI, Into the Breach, or XCOM, each move matters—and so does remembering what came before.

Players need to recall past turns, predict future consequences, and keep several streams of information active.

This kind of multitasking sharpens working memory, which is crucial for problem-solving in real life too.

Social deception games and attention to detail

Memory is more than just data—it’s how we notice patterns in behavior. That’s why games like Among Us, Project Winter, or Town of Salem are more than party fun.

Tracking who said what, where a player moved, and who acted strangely trains players to store and recall subtle social information.

In many ways, it mimics the mental mechanics of poker or negotiation.

Casino-style games and mental math

Digital card games like poker or blackjack aren’t just luck-based—they reward memory and pattern tracking.

Players remember which cards have been played, watch for opponents’ habits, and adjust strategy accordingly.

Even online slots or roulette games sometimes include memory-based bonuses.

When paired with crypto platforms, the mental load increases, recalling wallet transactions, tracking wins across multiple tables, and staying alert during rapid play.

Progress through habit, not pressure

Unlike school tests, games reward memory through repetition and feedback, not grades. That positive loop keeps players coming back.

But the real shift happens when gaming becomes routine—just 15–20 minutes a day of focused play builds memory endurance over time.

It’s not about chasing highs—it’s about reinforcing recall in a format that doesn’t feel like work. 

As the brain gets used to these mini workouts, players start building long-term consistency. Memory tasks become more automatic.

It’s like training a muscle—incremental, but lasting.

Over time, players may even start applying that same consistency to other parts of life: remembering passwords, improving work recall, or retaining what they read without effort.

Balancing brain gain with digital hygiene

Even memory-boosting games can become draining if overplayed. Experts recommend taking breaks, setting screen time boundaries, and mixing gaming with other offline tasks that support memory, like journaling, walking, or learning a language.

Recovery time lets the brain consolidate gains and avoids burnout. Without pauses, progress can plateau or even reverse. 

Keeping sessions short and intentional helps memory training stay effective instead of overwhelming. And pairing digital games with real-world habits reinforces recall even further.

A 10-minute puzzle followed by a mindful walk can be more effective than an hour-long grind.

It’s about rhythm, not excess. Memory thrives in a steady, supported environment.

Tracking actual progress

Memory improvement doesn’t always show up in high scores. Instead, watch for subtle shifts—fewer forgotten names, quicker task-switching, easier multitasking.

When a player recalls a sequence without When someone tries to solve a puzzle faster than expected, it indicates that the game is effectively engaging them. Another signal? Confidence.

Forgetting less can reduce hesitation and boost decision-making, both in games and real life.

Some players also notice stronger language recall, improved directions, or better concentration at work.

These benefits often emerge slowly, but they add up. Tracking small changes weekly or monthly helps keep motivation high, even if the leaderboard doesn’t budge.

The takeaway

Games can sharpen memory across different domains—from reaction time to emotional intelligence.

The trick is picking the right title, playing consistently, and staying aware of the gains beyond the screen. Memory isn’t just a skill—it’s a tool we use to make life easier.

And training it through gaming is one of the most low-pressure, high-impact methods around.

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Suleiman Wanjau Bilali and Robert Otiti Elwak were arrested in Muthurwa and Kayole respectively and detained in police custody for 10 days following accusations that they spread hateful and misleading content.

But on Tuesday, Milimani Senior Principal Magistrate Dolphina Alego directed that the investigators had taken adequate time and consequently closed the case file.

In arriving at her decision, Magistrate Alego referred to a previous decision by Judge Kimaru in a similar case. She reiterated the court’s responsibility to balance the rights of suspects against the need for public safety and thorough investigations.

The magistrate also echoed Judge Kimaru’s caution regarding the constitutionality of detaining suspects without charge, citing that the law limits how long and under what circumstances authorities may detain a person.

“Specifically, the judge stated that prolonged detention without a charge is unconstitutional and stressed the need for suspects to be informed of their rights and the reasons for their arrest,”she said.

Court Criticizes Detention Without Charges

Judge Kimaru strongly questioned the legality of holding suspects without formally charging them, condemning the practice as unconstitutional, particularly when it becomes routine under Kenyan law. He condemned the culture of arresting one and then attempting to extend detention without charging them with anything.

The Judge also underscored the necessity of safeguarding the rights of accused individuals, including the right to remain silent, the right to a lawyer, and the right to be informed of the offense with which they have been charged.

Although he acknowledged the needs of the state in investigations, Judge Kimaru was categorical that they should never overshadow constitutional protections.

Earlier, DCI attaché Sergeant Samuel Itegi told the court that the inciteful post went viral during pre-June 25 protest days. He explained that the posting originated from an account that operated under the name @daguindd (Daguin Dd) on X (formerly Twitter) and had gained huge momentum online.

Before getting widespread coverage on social media, the authorities suspected Suleiman Wanjau Bilali and Robert Otiti Elwak to be part of a group that intended to infiltrate a peaceful protest that was being organized by young Kenyans under the Gen Z movement.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) accused the suspects of intending to hijack the demonstration for the aim of mobilizing illegal activities such as looting shops, battering innocent citizens, and spreading political ideologies that were bound to undermine national security and stability.

The two, according to DCI, also posted a digital protest plan telling protesters to proceed to State House, which the government labeled an illegal call to action. The agency argued that this violated Section 23 of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, which prohibits publication of false or misleading data.

The DCI also told the court that on 20 June, 2025, they had intelligence about a viral schedule that was going round on social media. It had been claimed to have inflammatory and provocative language inciting Kenyans to attend a protest on the 25th of June aimed at illegally invading and occupying the State House.

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The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has officially declared Konza Technopolis to be the National Drone Corridor of Kenya, a giant step forward towards advanced drone technology in Kenya.

This makes Konza the first regulated airfield in Kenya for Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations.

The Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA) hailed the decision as a major milestone in enabling Kenya to become a continental hub for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and technological innovation.

The approval followed a comprehensive evaluation by the UAS Multi-Agency Route Committee.

“This approval is a profound testament to Kenya’s progressive vision of becoming a global leader in smart technology and aviation innovation,” Konza Technopolis CEO John Paul Okwiri said.

KoTDA noted that the newly designated drone corridor will enable long-distance flights of drones to fly securely and within a controlled setting.

The corridor will help mitigate threats to manned aircraft, human beings, property, and the environment.

KoTDA also indicated the airspace will be used for testing, training, and conducting research of drones, as well as offering opportunities for startups, technology firms, as well as universities to innovate in a controlled and secure environment.

“The establishment of this drone corridor within a smart city will spur significant economic growth by attracting investment,” Okwiri said.

“It will create new opportunities and also firmly position Konza Technopolis as the premier destination for African tech talent and enterprise to thrive.”

KoTDA said the drone corridor will allow key industries such as agriculture, medicine delivery, logistics, and disaster response – sectors where drones can make real-world impact.

All drone flights in the corridor will be required to comply with KCAA’s strict safety and regulation requirements to ensure responsible and safe use.

The corridor also enables controlled Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) flights, in which drones are flown safely far from the pilot without remaining in direct sight.

“This crucial capability will enable the safe and efficient execution of long-range drone flights, unlocking the full potential of drones for real-world, impactful applications,” said KoTDA CEO John Paul Okwiri.

KoTDA added that the airspace will be accessible to licensed operators, researchers, and training institutions, promoting collaboration and innovation.

“The corridor offers open access for authorised operators, researchers, and training institutions, fostering a dynamic environment for partnerships, knowledge sharing and collective innovation,” Okwiri  added.

To ensure successful and safe flights, KoTDA has employed a full-time Corridor Operations Coordinator to oversee the day-to-day functions within the drone corridor.

The coordinator will also ensure aviation regulatory compliance, monitor safety, and optimize airspace usage for efficiency and innovation.

Konza Chief Manager of Physical Planning Annah Musyimi said the approval of the corridor opens up deeper partnerships.

“Konza Technopolis extends invitations to both local and international partners to tap into the massive opportunities unlocked by the drone zone,,” she added.

“We want stakeholders to exploit the myriad of benefits that come with drone technology.”

A drone light show, featuring a fleet of 90 drones was hosted by @Kenyaflyinglabs, @Jays_Pyrotech and the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (@CAA_Kenya) at the Konza City Soccer Field.

This exercise positions the smart city as a premier drone zone, showcasing the innovative spirit… pic.twitter.com/4DDg84GYNv

— Konza Technopolis Development Authority (@konzatech) April 10, 2025

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The Global Access to Nutrition Index (ATNi), which evaluates the healthiness of food products, reviewed items from more than 25 major food and beverage companies operating in Kenya.

Researchers analyzed a wide range of common items consumed that dominate local shelves. These included drinks like sodas, juices, and energy drinks, and staples such as rice, pasta, and noodles.

The study also analyzed snack foods like biscuits and sweets, dairy and ice cream, cooking essentials like edible oils and sauces, and breakfast items like cereals and instant coffee.

Assessment was on the basis of Kenya’s own system of nutrient profiling, which sets specific limits for total fat, saturated fat, sugars, and sodium in 21 categories of processed food.

The findings revealed a shocking trend: Beloved brands fell short of national benchmarks. Many baked goods, for instance, carried elevated amounts of sugar, salt, and saturated fat.

Foods in product categories like savory snacks, sweet biscuits, snack bars, and fruit snacks also didn’t hit health benchmarks. Even some of the most commonly accepted staples such as rice, pasta, and noodles had nutrient levels above safe limits.

Worse still, the report showed that most food companies have made minimal progress in reformulating their products. Only a handful of brands have taken steps to reduce harmful ingredients such as sodium, added sugars, saturated fats, and industrial trans fats. Few have also incorporated more healthier aspects like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, or nuts..

The report warns that these findings carry serious public health consequences for Kenya, where non-communicable diseases (NCDs) linked to poor diets such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease  are rapidly rising.

The researchers attributed the widespread levels of excessive sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats in packaged foods consumed daily to mounting diet-linked disease burden in the country.

As a resolution to the issue, the report calls for all food and drink companies whose products have high sugar, salt, or fat content to:

• Set and publicly declare obvious, measurable, and timely targets for reducing such unhealthy nutrients across their product ranges.
• Avoid making health or nutrition claims on products that do not pass official “healthier” product criteria.
• Support and encourage education campaigns encouraging healthy eating awareness, especially through the suggested front-of-pack labeling scheme.

Additionally, the report urges companies to adopt responsible marketing practices, particularly those targeting children. It calls on firms to stop using ads, celebrity endorsements, sponsorships, toys, giveaways, and promotional materials to push less nutritious products to anyone under 18.

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