magicnewskenya

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting constitutional freedoms while warning against violence and destruction of property ahead of the planned June 25 demonstrations. Speaking during a press briefing at Harambee Annex in Nairobi on Monday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said Kenyans remain free to assemble, demonstrate and present petitions as provided for under Article 37 of the Constitution. However, he cautioned that peaceful protests should not be hijacked by criminal elements seeking to cause chaos and economic losses. Mwaura noted that while the government recognizes the importance of public demonstrations in a democratic society, recent protests have resulted in deaths, injuries and extensive damage to businesses and public infrastructure. "The right to protest is guaranteed by the Constitution, but no one has the right to destroy property, attack others or disrupt the lives and livelihoods of fellow citizens," he said. The spokesp...

The inaugural MNL Africa Leadership Circle 2026 has commenced in Nairobi, bringing together business leaders, policymakers, regulators, legal practitioners, investors, development institutions and private sector executives from five continents to discuss opportunities and challenges shaping Africa’s economic future. Held under the theme “Doing Business in Kenya & Africa,” the forum is focusing on leadership excellence, innovation, sustainable development and strategic opportunities that can accelerate the continent’s growth and transformation. Participants are also exploring ways to strengthen Africa’s competitiveness, improve investment ecosystems and foster partnerships that promote long-term economic development. Opening the forum, Evelyne Mbula Nzuki, Founder and Managing Partner of MN Legal (MNL Advocates LLP), stressed the importance of aligning policy, investment and development goals across the continent. “Africa has never lacked opportunity. What it has often l...

The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusion and expanding support for persons with disabilities and albinism, as Kenya marked three major milestones in the country's journey towards equality and human dignity. The commitment was highlighted during celebrations of the 80th anniversary of the Thika School for the Visually Impaired, the 20th anniversary of the Albinism Society of Kenya (ASK), and the 11th International Albinism Awareness Day held at the Thika School for the Visually Impaired on Saturday. Speaking during the event, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura praised the progress made in advancing the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities, particularly those living with albinism, while calling for renewed efforts to eliminate discrimination and exclusion. Mwaura described the Thika School for the Visually Impaired as a pioneering institution that has transformed lives for eight decades. Established in the 1940s, the school became t...

The government has called for a candid national conversation on discipline, morality and student welfare following a wave of school unrest across the country, even as it defended the Finance Bill 2026 and highlighted key gains in the proposed national budget. Speaking at the Government Spokesperson's Media Centre at Harambee Annex on Monday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the country must confront difficult issues affecting young people, including indiscipline, violence and moral decay in schools. "As a nation we have a challenge and we must address it. We have to have an honest conversation about discipline in schools," Mwaura said, adding that concerns surrounding immorality, violence and other social challenges among learners require urgent attention. The spokesperson urged parents to take a more active role in raising and guiding their children, arguing that schools and social media cannot replace the foundational responsibility of families in i...

Persons with disabilities (PWDs) have intensified calls for greater political representation and inclusion ahead of the 2027 General Election, unveiling a 10-point agenda that seeks to secure meaningful participation in governance, economic empowerment and access to leadership positions. The demands were made during a Persons with Disabilities Breakfast Forum held in Nairobi under the theme "Enhancing Democracy and Inclusion in the Political Space for Persons with Disabilities."  The forum was convened by the Office of the Government Spokesperson in partnership with the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) as part of ongoing efforts to engage stakeholders on governance and inclusion issues. The discussions focused on promoting meaningful political participation and representation of persons with disabilities, addressing barriers to leadership and electoral engagement, enhancing accountability within political parties and public institutions, and advancing ac...

Wajir County is set to make history on June 1 as it hosts Kenya's Madaraka Day celebrations for the first time since independence, a move the government says reflects its commitment to inclusivity, national unity and equitable development. Speaking during a press briefing at Harambee Annex in Nairobi on Sunday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the decision to hold the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir marks a significant milestone for the North Eastern region, which has for decades remained on the periphery of major national events. Mwaura said the celebrations are more than a ceremonial occasion, describing them as a symbol of a united Kenya where every region has a place in the country's development agenda. "The choice of Wajir demonstrates the government's commitment to ensuring no region is left behind," he said. Ahead of the national event, Wajir Town has undergone extensive infrastructure improvements, including the construction of...

The Government has expressed sorrow following a deadly fire outbreak at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, where several students are feared dead while others sustained injuries. In a statement issued on Thursday, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura described the incident as heartbreaking and devastating to the country. “The Government has received with deep shock and profound sadness reports of a tragic fire incident at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil,” Mwaura said. He conveyed condolences to families, parents, teachers, and students affected by the tragedy on behalf of the Government and the people of Kenya. Emergency response teams were immediately dispatched to the school following the incident, with officers from the National Police Service, Kenya Defence Forces, county disaster response units, firefighters, and medical personnel joining rescue operations. According to the Government, injured students were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment as aut...

The Government has pushed back against growing criticism surrounding the Finance Bill 2026, accusing unnamed individuals of spreading false and politically motivated information to mislead Kenyans. Addressing the media in Nairobi, Government Spokesman Isaac Mwaura said many of the claims circulating online about new taxes are inaccurate and intended to create fear among citizens. “There is a lot of misinformation and disinformation being spread online regarding the Finance Bill. We urge Kenyans to read the document for themselves instead of relying on propaganda and negative narratives,” Mwaura said. He dismissed reports alleging that the Government plans to introduce a motor vehicle circulation tax, increase taxes on Mitumba clothes, impose VAT on bread, or introduce fresh levies on mobile phones and digital transactions. Mwaura clarified that some of the controversial proposals initially discussed during consultations were either revised or dropped completely before the b...

The Kenyan government has announced that Nairobi will host the Africa Forward Summit 2026 from May 11 to 12, bringing together African leaders, global development partners, investors, innovators and civil society representatives for high-level discussions on Africa’s development agenda and global partnerships. In a statement issued Friday at Lake Naivasha Resort, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the summit marks a historic milestone as it will be held outside the Francophonie bloc for the first time. According to the government, the summit is expected to strengthen Africa-France cooperation while promoting an Africa-led partnership model focused on mutual respect, sustainable development and shared prosperity. The event comes ahead of France’s G7 Presidency in June 2026 and is expected to provide a platform for African leaders to push for reforms in global governance and economic systems. President William Ruto is expected to use the summit to advocate for equitabl...

By Wilson Amondo The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has raised alarm over what it describes as deepening governance failures, a rise in politically sponsored violence, and worsening socio-economic conditions, following a two-day regional meeting in Nairobi. Delegates drawn from NCCK member churches in Nairobi, Kiambu, Garissa, Wajir and Mandera convened at the YMCA Central Conference Hall under the theme “Strengthening Governance, Accountability, and Trust for credible elections,” where they expressed concern that Kenya’s democratic ideals are being undermined by what they termed a transactional political culture. In a strongly worded statement, the church leaders condemned the normalization of “goonism” in politics, warning that unemployed youth are increasingly being exploited by political actors.  “Paying a young Kenyan as little as 200 to 500 shillings to disrupt a meeting or intimidate a fellow citizen is not just a security issue; it is a grave viola...

Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has outlined key achievements across education, healthcare, housing and employment, while affirming the political strength of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA). Speaking during a weekly press briefing on Monday, Mwaura said the government had released KSh23.4 billion in capitation funds to support learners in public schools, easing the burden on families and improving access to education. He noted that accountability systems such as the National Education Management Information System (NEMIS) are helping eliminate ghost students and ensure equitable distribution of resources. On staffing, Mwaura said the government has hired 100,000 teachers out of a planned 116,000, alongside constructing more than 23,000 classrooms nationwide. He added that reforms are ongoing, including curriculum improvements, expansion of technical training, and plans to build 1,600 laboratories. The spokesperson also highlighted the revised higher education fund...

Tura Ruru Elema, the Member of County Assembly (MCA) for North Horr Ward in Marsabit County, has been recognized as the Outstanding MCA of the Year in Peace, Security, and Education Development at the Jamhuri Kenya Leadership Awards. Speaking during the award ceremony, Elema attributed the recognition to collective efforts in restoring peace and improving education in the region, which has historically faced insecurity and marginalization challenges. The MCA paid tribute to the late Bonaya Adhi Godana, describing him as a source of inspiration in his leadership journey. He recalled Godana’s commitment to unity and peace, noting that his legacy continues to shape development efforts in Marsabit County. “When North Horr is mentioned, many remember the legacy of the late Hon. Dr. Bonaya Adhi Godana… his unwavering pursuit of peace continues to guide my service,” Elema said. He also reflected on the inter-communal conflicts that rocked Marsabit between 2020 and 2022, emphasizin...

By the time the rains arrive in northern Kenya, the outcome is already determined. Not in the sky, but on the ground—in decisions made weeks and months earlier about where livestock will move, which pastures will rest, and how scarce water will be shared.  Those decisions are rarely visible beyond the communities that make them. Yet they shape everything that follows: whether grass returns or disappears, whether livestock survive or weaken, whether tensions escalate or are contained. For a long time, these landscapes were managed largely through reaction. When pasture failed, people moved. When water ran out, they followed it. The system was adaptive, but it was also exposed—vulnerable to the increasing unpredictability of climate and the growing pressure on land. What has been changing, steadily and often quietly, is the shift from reaction to coordination. Across northern and coastal Kenya, the Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT) has worked with communities to bui...

The family of renowned gemstone pioneer Campbell Bridges has expressed gratitude after he was posthumously awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his contributions to the global gemstone industry. In a statement, the Bridges family said they were deeply honoured to accept the award on behalf of their father, noting that they were unable to attend the ceremony as they are currently overseas. They described Bridges as the father of coloured gemstone mining in East Africa, crediting him with building and shaping an industry that has had a lasting impact both regionally and globally. His work led to the introduction of some of the world’s most sought-after gemstones. Among his notable achievements was bringing Tanzanite to the United States and to Tiffany & Co., where the gemstone was later named and marketed internationally. The family highlighted Bridges’ discovery of Tsavorite in Tanzania and later in Kenya, a milestone that eventually saw Tsavorite recog...

The government has raised concern over increasing flood risks across the country as heavy rains continue to push water levels in key dams to critical points. In a statement, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the ongoing rainfall has led to a sharp rise in water volumes along the Tana River cascade, forcing authorities to implement controlled water releases to protect dam infrastructure. A fatal incident was reported in Roysambu Sub-County, Nairobi, where a woman believed to be about 29 years old was swept away by floodwaters on the night of April 28 near Turners Club in Zimmerman.  Although she was retrieved by members of the public, she had already died. Officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations processed the scene, and the body was taken to City Mortuary for identification and post-mortem examination. The case remains under investigation. The government conveyed its condolences to the bereaved family and others affected by the ongoing floods. Au...

Incoming Makueni Woman Representative Damaris Maweu has emerged as the top-ranked candidate in the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) grassroots elections, a development seen as a major boost to her political standing within the party in the region. Her victory follows a tightly contested internal exercise that drew wide participation from party members, as UDA seeks to reinforce its grassroots structures ahead of future political contests. Maweu’s strong showing underscores her growing influence within the party base, with supporters backing her leadership credentials, mobilization efforts, and commitment to advancing the party’s agenda at the county level. Addressing supporters after the announcement, Maweu thanked party members for the trust they had placed in her, saying the outcome reflects a shared commitment to inclusivity and strengthening the role of women in leadership. Officials who supervised the elections noted that the process was largely peaceful and well-organ...

By Jane The Jubilee Party has appealed for a unified opposition front in the forthcoming Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, urging its coalition partners to back one candidate under its banner. In a statement released by Secretary General Moitale Ole Kenta, the party framed the by-election as a crucial opportunity for opposition leaders to demonstrate cohesion and offer a credible alternative to the government. “This is a defining moment for the opposition… Kenyans are increasingly vocal and resolute in their demand for unity of purpose,” the statement said. The by-election follows the death of David Kiaraho, a Jubilee legislator, whom the party described as “a leader whose life was defined by humility, service, and an unbreakable bond with the people he represented” in Ol Kalou Constituency. While confirming it will field a candidate, Jubilee maintained that its position is justified by the fact that the seat was previously held by one of its members. It also assured cons...

By Jane Muthusi Kenya is stepping up its push to become a continental football powerhouse following a high-level meeting in Nairobi that brought together top African football leaders and global stakeholders. Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya hosted members of the FIFA Council, alongside officials from CECAFA and COSAFA, as well as presidents of football federations from across the continent. The meeting, held at Talanta Plaza, underscored growing confidence in Kenya’s ability to host major international tournaments, with Mvurya describing the gathering as a significant milestone in the country’s sports diplomacy efforts. Speaking during a press briefing, Mvurya said the presence of top football decision-makers signals Kenya’s rising profile in global football and its readiness to stage world-class events, including the ongoing FIFA Series. He noted that beyond hosting matches, Kenya is positioning itself as a key player in shaping...

Kenya has crowned winners of the 2025 National AI Hackathon, showcasing the country’s growing capacity to develop homegrown technology solutions addressing healthcare, security, and economic challenges. Top honours went to Caroline Gakii, Daniel Maitethia, and Ezekiel Otieno from Meru University of Science and Technology, who won KSh 2 million for developing a low-cost AI-powered digital microscope aimed at improving access to cancer and malaria diagnosis. Joshua Radula of Strathmore University finished second with a tool that translates speech and text into sign language, while Kelvin Mulama placed third with a system designed to detect financial fraud and strengthen financial integrity. The competition attracted over 5,600 registrations and more than 2,500 submissions, reflecting the rapid growth of Kenya’s innovation ecosystem. NIRU Vice Chancellor James Kibon said the initiative is focused on delivering practical impact. “What we are building is not just a competition, ...

The government has achieved 55 percent implementation of reforms across the National Police Service, Kenya Prisons Service, and National Youth Service, according to Raymond Omollo. Speaking during a progress update, the Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration said the reforms—over 500 in total—are aimed at strengthening efficiency, accountability, and service delivery across the three security institutions. Omollo, who also chairs the National Steering Committee overseeing the reforms, said the progress reflects coordinated efforts involving multiple government agencies and oversight bodies, including the National Police Service Commission, Salaries and Remuneration Commission, and Public Service Commission. “We report notable achievement in the implementation of the reforms as sanctioned by the President. We are currently at about 55 percent,” he said, adding that the bulk of reforms are within the police service, followed by prisons and the y...

East Africa is preparing to take a major step in shaping its digital future, with leaders and experts set to converge in Kigali for a high-level regional conference focused on artificial intelligence and innovation. The 4th East African Community Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Conference, organised by the East African Science and Technology Commission and the Inter-University Council for East Africa, will run from March 30 to April 1 at the Kigali Convention Centre. The gathering is expected to bring together over 680 participants, including ministers in charge of ICT and innovation, researchers, private sector leaders, and development partners from across the East African Community.  The conference comes at a time when countries in the region are increasingly looking to artificial intelligence as a tool to accelerate economic growth and improve service delivery. Opening the event will be Rwanda’s ICT and Innovation Minister, Paula Ingabire, alongside senio...

Kenya is set to make history as Nyayo National Stadium prepares to host the first FIFA Women’s Series from April 11 to 15, 2026, featuring national teams from Australia, India, Malawi, and host nation Kenya. The announcement was made by Hon. Salim Mvurya, Cabinet Secretary for Sports, who hailed the selection as a major vote of confidence in Kenya’s ability to host world-class sporting events. “This is a proud moment for our nation. Our Harambee Starlets will carry the hopes of all Kenyans, and I am confident they will shine on home soil,” CS Mvurya said.  Meanwhile, the Harambee Stars are in Kigali, Rwanda, competing in the FIFA Series Men’s matches to build performance and team cohesion ahead of future tournaments. The FIFA Women’s Series provides a platform to showcase emerging talent and strengthen Kenya’s global football profile.  Kenya is also among 48 national teams participating in FIFA’s International Friendly Series, which offers players international exp...

Johnson Sakaja has ordered the immediate demolition of illegal structures built along riverbanks and the relocation of occupants on riparian land in a renewed push to address chronic flooding in Nairobi. The directive follows the submission of a 48-hour action report by the Infrastructure Subcommittee under the intergovernmental cooperation framework, marking the start of what county officials describe as a large-scale enforcement and restoration exercise. Speaking in Westlands during an inspection and demolition exercise near Westgate Shopping Mall, Sakaja said the county government had moved swiftly from planning to implementation. “The directive was clear within 48 hours, we needed a concrete action plan to address flooding. I have received that report, and implementation is now underway,” he said. The ongoing operation is targeting developments that have encroached on waterways, significantly reducing their capacity to handle stormwater. Authorities cited cases where ri...