Kenya News updates

By Irene Mwende  Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has outlined an ambitious package of reforms aimed at transforming Kenya’s security sector through enhanced capacity, improved welfare, and modernization of operations across disciplined services. Speaking at a function attended by Douglas Kanja, Dr Omollo said the reforms—targeting the National Police Service, Kenya Prisons Service, and National Youth Service—represent a significant shift toward a more efficient, accountable, and citizen-focused security framework. A key pillar of the reform agenda is the recruitment of 13,860 new officers, including 10,000 Police Constables and 3,860 Prison Constables. According to the PS, the move is designed to address chronic personnel shortages, ease operational strain on existing officers, and boost security presence nationwide. Dr Omollo also highlighted what he described as the most comprehensive salary review in the history of the disciplined services. Th...

 Safaricom has renewed its commitment to workplace diversity and disability inclusion, positioning it as a key driver of innovation and business growth during the KBDN HR Leaders Breakfast held in Nairobi. In a half-year HR report presented at the forum, the company underscored the growing importance of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), noting that organizations with strong diversity frameworks are more profitable, innovative, and better at attracting talent. Quoting Sundar Pichai, the report highlighted that “diverse teams are more innovative, they understand customers better, and they make better decisions,” reinforcing the business case for inclusive workplaces. According to the report, companies with above-average diversity record up to 19 percent higher revenue, while gender-diverse executive teams are 21 percent more profitable. Organizations prioritizing diversity also experience twice the talent attraction rate and up to 50 percent lower staff turnover. Saf...

Kenya has secured a historic opportunity to host the 2026 FIFA Women’s Series, marking the country’s first-ever staging of a global football event under FIFA. In remarks delivered following the announcement, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya described the selection as a defining moment for the country’s sporting journey and a strong endorsement of Kenya’s growing reputation as a reliable host of international competitions. He extended a warm welcome to participating nations—India, Australia, and Malawi—alongside officials, fans, and the global football community, affirming that Kenya is fully prepared to deliver a memorable tournament while showcasing its rich culture, diversity, and hospitality. The matches, scheduled for April 11 and 15, 2026, will be held at Nyayo National Stadium, providing a key platform to spotlight emerging talent in women’s football and elevate Kenya’s standing in the global game. Mvurya noted that the hosting rights reflect internat...

East Africa’s push toward a technology-driven future takes centre stage as the 4th East African Community (EAC) Regional Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Conference kicks off from March 30 to April 1, 2026, at the Kigali Convention Centre. Jointly organised by the East African Science and Technology Commission and the Inter-University Council for East Africa, the biennial conference brings together policymakers, researchers, innovators, and private sector leaders under the theme: “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for a Resilient, Inclusive, and Innovative East Africa.” The high-level gathering comes at a pivotal moment for the region, as countries increasingly look to artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate economic growth, improve service delivery, and address complex development challenges. This year’s edition marks a significant milestone as the first to place AI at the heart of its agenda, signalling a shift from dialogue to coordinated regional action. The...

Old Mutual Holdings PLC has reported a profit after tax of KES 856 million for the year ended December 31, 2025, marking a 2 percent increase from KES 838 million recorded in 2024, as strong performance in asset management and digital platforms drove growth. The regional financial services group, which operates across Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and South Sudan, posted a consolidated profit before tax of KES 1.9 billion. This performance was supported by gains in life insurance, asset management, improved treasury operations, and strengthened capital buffers. Total assets grew by 6 percent to KES 79.2 billion, up from KES 74.8 billion the previous year, while total equity rose by 3 percent to KES 20.4 billion, reinforcing the Group’s financial stability and long-term growth outlook. Group CEO Arthur Oginga attributed the results to disciplined execution and a diversified portfolio strategy. He noted that the company had enhanced its capital position, improved liquidity, and continued to inv...

By Irene  The Government has issued an urgent public alert after River Nyando burst its banks at Ahero Bridge, causing flooding along the Kericho–Awasi–Kisumu road and disrupting transport in the region. Speaking on the situation, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura warned that rising water levels have overflowed onto the roadway, posing a serious risk to motorists and other road users. Mwaura said authorities, in consultation with the Nyanza Region Traffic Commandant, have directed all motorists to avoid the flooded section and use alternative routes. Traffic to and from Kisumu has been diverted at Timboroa through Lesos, then redirected via Kapsabet and Chavakali until conditions improve. He emphasized that the advisory is particularly critical during nighttime hours when visibility is poor, making it difficult for drivers to assess the depth and strength of the water. “The Government is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to provide updates as necessa...