KBC Channel 1

Author: KBC Digital

  • President Ruto intervenes as Amboseli Park management standoff escalates

    President Ruto intervenes as Amboseli Park management standoff escalates

    President William Ruto has assured the Maa community that the government remains committed to the full transfer of Amboseli National Park to Kajiado County, temporarily easing a standoff that has intensified since July 1, when the county was expected to assume management of the park following a presidential directive issued in November 2025.

    Ahead of a July 14, 2026 ultimatum issued by local residents threatening to storm the park in a bid to pressure the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to relinquish control, President Ruto is said to have personally called Governor Joseph Ole Lenku and reaffirmed his commitment to completing the transfer process.

    The President urged the community to allow the rule of law to take its course, noting that the matter is currently before the High Court following a petition filed by a section of activists seeking to block the handover.

    Shortly after the President’s intervention, hundreds of armed KWS wardens who had been deployed around the park were withdrawn, while local residents were allowed to hold prayers near Kimana Gate.

    The development came barely a day after the High Court, on July 12, issued an injunction restraining Governor Joseph Ole Lenku, his servants, agents, employees, assigns, or any person acting under his authority or on his behalf, from entering, taking over, assuming control of, interfering with the operations or management of Amboseli National Park, or implementing the Deed of Transfer dated October 14, 2025, pending the determination of the case.

    Governor Lenku welcomed President Ruto’s intervention, saying it had calmed the agitated community. He said residents had agreed to allow the court process to continue, although he maintained that the legal proceedings were intended to delay the transfer of the park.

    Other local leaders accused the Kenya Wildlife Service of high-handedness and neglecting the park, saying the agency had failed to address longstanding concerns raised by the local community.

    Tourism Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano is expected to meet local leaders in Amboseli on Friday in an effort to ease tensions and chart a way forward.

  • Liquid Intelligent Technologies taps Bernard Beya to head DRC unit

    Liquid Intelligent Technologies taps Bernard Beya to head DRC unit

    Liquid Intelligent Technologies has appointed Bernard Beya as Chief Executive Officer of its operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) effective 1 April 2026.

    Until his appointment, Beya  joined the firm as chief financial officer in 2022 and was appointed Acting CEO in November 2025, overseeing the organisation’s strategic, operational and commercial direction.

    “The DRC represents one of the most exciting growth opportunities in our region, and Bernard’s appointment comes at an important moment in our journey. His deep understanding of the local market, combined with his commitment to customer success and operational excellence, will help accelerate our ambitions to expand digital infrastructure and enable greater economic growth across the country,” said Sutha Siva, Cassava Technologies Group Chief Operating Officer.

    Siva added that Beya’s proven track record of delivering results and building stakeholder trust highlights his capability to lead Liquid DRC effectively.

    “Our priority is to build on the strong operational and financial foundation we have established to deliver greater value for our customers and partners. As a business of Cassava Technologies, we can expand access to reliable connectivity, cloud, cyber security, colocation and compute AI for our customers. We can play a meaningful role in accelerating digital transformation for the country’s enterprises, government, and communities,” said Beya.

    Liquid Intelligence Technologies which is a subsidiary of Cassava Technologies targets to position itself as a in DRC as the country advances its digital transformation agenda through significant investments in digital infrastructure, connectivity, and skills development.

  • The Hub Karen marks 10 years with month-long anniversary celebrations

    The Hub Karen marks 10 years with month-long anniversary celebrations

    The Hub Karen has unveiled a month-long programme of activities to celebrate its 10th anniversary as a retail, lifestyle and family entertainment destination in Nairobi.

    The celebrations, which began on July 12, will feature wellness and fitness activities, fashion and beauty experiences, food events and family entertainment open to the public throughout the month.

    According to The Hub Karen Mall Manager Jacobus Visser, the anniversary is an opportunity to appreciate customers and the wider community that have supported the mall over the last 10 years.

    “Celebrating ten years is about giving back to the community that has supported us from the beginning. Throughout July, customers can look forward to exclusive shopping and dining offers, family-friendly activities, live entertainment and a range of experiences designed to make every visit memorable,” said Visser.

    “The loyalty and trust of our customers have shaped The Hub Karen into the destination it is today. As we celebrate this milestone, we reflect on a decade of shared memories while looking forward with confidence and excitement to the next chapter of serving our community,” he added.

    Jacobus Visser, Mall Manager at The Hub Karen, speaks during the mall’s 10th anniversary celebrations.

    Over the past 10 years, the shopping mall has grown to host more than 95 local and international tenants, including supermarkets, fashion retailers, medical facilities, gyms and entertainment outlets.

    Recent additions include M.P. Shah Hospital and the OPPO Mobiles experience store, which have expanded its retail offering.

    The shopping mall currently attracts tens of thousands of visitors every week and is home to East Africa’s first mall-based zipline and The Hub Park, which is touted as Kenya’s largest indoor family entertainment centre.

    The mall also boasts sustainability initiatives, including being the first open-air shopping mall in the region to integrate green energy into its operations through a 450-kilowatt solar power installation.

    It has also adopted water recycling and other environmental conservation measures as part of its long-term sustainability agenda.

    Activities lined up for the anniversary include a wellness weekend on July 19 and 20, a fashion show weekend on July 25 and 26, and a food festival scheduled for August 1 and 2.

  • High Court restrains Kajiado County from taking over Amboseli

    High Court restrains Kajiado County from taking over Amboseli

    The High Court has temporarily prohibited the Kajiado County Government from taking over or interfering with the management of Amboseli National Park. The order will remain in effect pending the hearing of an urgent application concerning contempt of court.

    Justice Gregory Mutai certified the application as urgent and scheduled the hearing for 24 July 2026, by which time all parties must have filed and exchanged their responses.

    Until the hearing, the judge restrained Kajiado County, Governor Joseph Ole Lenku, and their agents from “entering upon, invading, taking over, assuming control of, interfering with the operations or management of Amboseli National Park, or in any manner whatsoever implementing, or purporting to implement the Deed of Transfer dated 14th October 2025.”

    The court clarified that these orders are intended to preserve the conservatory orders it issued on 30 December 2025.

    The petitioner was directed to serve the application and court orders on the respondents and interested parties within three working days. The respondents will then have seven days to file their responses.

    The court further issued a penal notice warning that any person who disobeys the orders will face legal consequences for contempt of court.

  • Police warn gangs, hooligans as 14 arraigned over Kisumu and Nyahururu violence

    Police warn gangs, hooligans as 14 arraigned over Kisumu and Nyahururu violence

    The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a stern warning against violence, hooliganism, and political thuggery. This comes as 14 suspects, arrested in connection with Sunday’s unrest in Kisumu and Nyahururu, have been brought before the courts.

    In a statement released on Monday, the Service confirmed that the suspects face various charges related to violent incidents that disrupted public order in both towns.

    “The National Police Service will not tolerate violence, hooliganism, or any disruption of public peace. We remain steadfast in our duty to maintain law and order. Let it be clear: those who choose chaos will be met with the full force of the law,” the Service stated.

    Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, the Service assured that officers nationwide remain dedicated to protecting lives, property, and businesses.

    “We reaffirm our commitment to serving and protecting all Kenyans, residents, and visitors. Our officers continue to work tirelessly to safeguard lives, property, and businesses across the country,” the statement added.

    Police further indicated that investigations into the incidents are ongoing, pledging to conduct thorough, impartial, and evidence-led inquiries to ensure all those responsible are brought to justice.

    The statement follows Sunday’s clashes in Kisumu City, where a confrontation between rival groups resulted in one fatality, several injuries, the torching of nine motorcycles, and damage to a police vehicle. Police arrested eight suspects at the scene, with ongoing investigations aimed at identifying and apprehending additional individuals.

    In Nyahururu, police reported that a group attempted to disrupt a political rally by pelting attendees with stones, injuring several people. Among them was a man, who sustained chest injuries, received treatment, and was subsequently discharged. Six suspects were arrested in connection with the incident.

    The National Police Service dismissed allegations that police opened fire during the Nyahururu incident. They maintained that officers responded promptly to restore order and arrest those responsible.

    The NPS emphasised that no individual is above the law, regardless of social status, political affiliation, or public office, warning that anyone involved in sponsoring criminal gangs, inciting violence, or disrupting lawful gatherings would be prosecuted.

  • ‘Moana’ underperforms at Box Office falling below expectations

    ‘Moana’ underperforms at Box Office falling below expectations

    The live-action remake of the Disney animated movie of the same name raked in $95 million (Kshs. 12.2B) at the global Box Office when it opened on Friday in Kenya and around the world.

    According to Deadline, the domestic haul for the movie, $43 million (Kshs. 5.5B), “underperformed studio expectations, which ranged from $60 million (Kshs. 7.7B) to $65 million (Kshs. 8.4B).

    Regardless of its revenue, ‘Moana’ still topped the Box Office charts without much competition in the family genre.

    The new film’s poor performance has been a surprise, according to analysts, compared to its 2016 counterpart. The original 2016 animated movie brought in more than $643 million (Kshs. 83.1B) worldwide and is the most-watched movie on Disney+ according to the streamer’s stats.

    A 2024 sequel grossed more than $1 billion (Kshs. 129.2B) at the global box office while the studio has sold more than 22 million “Moana”-themed toys.”

    It’s also believed that early criticisms of the film may have contributed to its poor performance. According to the BBC, “the movie, which was released on Friday, has been described in reviews as “flat”, “dull” and “dismal””.

    The Guardian, in their review, called the film a “competent but pointless and unexciting back-to-basics live-action remake” in its two-star review, while Variety said “the film “truly delivers ‘Moana’ – the beauty, the comic personality, the fairy-tale enchantment”, and described Johnson’s “fit” for the film as “perfect”.

    “Moana” stars Dwayne Johnson, who reprises his role as demigod Maui, with 19-year-old Australian-Samoan newcomer Catherine Laga’aia playing Moana, the teen daughter of a Polynesian chief.

    The movie is available to watch in cinemas across Kenya.

  • China advances industry-focused education with new AI teaching model

    China advances industry-focused education with new AI teaching model

    Shandong University of Science and Technology is successfully implementing a new Digital Intelligence and Industry-Education Integration model for talent development. According to Science and Technology Daily, a TV BRICS partner, the core of the new model lies in reorienting the educational process towards the practical needs of industry.

    The university utilises large-scale artificial intelligence (AI) language models and specialised knowledge graphs, adhering to the principle that “what is taught is determined by industry”, to translate labour market demands into relevant curriculum design.

    In 2024, the university took the lead in establishing the nation’s first knowledge graph platform for the safety engineering discipline, which integrates 10 core courses and 1,079 key knowledge points.

    This AI platform aggregates talent demand data from over 120 mining, chemical and emergency response enterprises to construct a “competency indicator database” for safety roles. Students can clearly see which disciplines correspond to which roles, whilst lecturers can adjust course content in a timely manner.

    The new educational model places great emphasis on practical training. The educational AI agents developed can simulate 37 types of emergency scenarios (such as methane explosions and water inrushes), allowing students to practise response measures in real time. Senior students also undertake work placements at enterprises, mines and workshops to address accident prevention issues.

    As Zhou Gang, Head of the College of Safety and Environmental Engineering at Shandong University of Science and Technology, emphasised, the professionals trained under this new model are not only capable of carrying out safety assurance work but can also effectively utilise digital tools to solve complex engineering problems in real-world environments.

    Courtesy/ Science and Technology Daily & TV BRICS

  • PS Oluga joins PS Kiptoo in flagging off Kaptagat Forest Marathon

    PS Oluga joins PS Kiptoo in flagging off Kaptagat Forest Marathon

    The Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, on Saturday morning joined Principal Secretary for the National Treasury, Dr. Chris Kiptoo, in flagging off this year’s edition of the annual Kaptagat forest Marathon.

    Athletes competed in the 42 km, 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km races.

    The marathon, a flagship Sports for Conservation initiative under the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme (KICP), brings together athletes, communities, and conservation partners to promote environmental stewardship while celebrating Kenya’s rich sporting heritage.

    Alongside the races, a comprehensive medical camp is underway at Kaptarkok Primary School, providing a range of healthcare services to residents, athletes, and visitors.

  • China–Africa partnership expands through trade, infrastructure and regional development initiatives

    China–Africa partnership expands through trade, infrastructure and regional development initiatives

    As global economic and political influence becomes more widely distributed, cooperation between China and Africa is emerging as one of the defining development partnerships of the 21st century.

    Built on decades of diplomatic engagement, the relationship is increasingly focused on accelerating industrialisation, improving connectivity and promoting sustainable growth across the African continent.

    At the centre of this evolving partnership is a shared commitment to long-term development, economic modernisation and mutually beneficial cooperation, as reported by The Diplomatic Society, a TV BRICS partner.

    Chinese policymakers have consistently promoted a development model centred on strategic planning, infrastructure investment, technological innovation and poverty reduction – an experience that continues to attract growing attention from developing economies.

    Experts stated that China’s development trajectory has transformed the country into one of the world’s largest economies through sustained investment in manufacturing, transport infrastructure, education and advanced technologies. While each country follows its own development path, this experience has become an important reference point for many emerging economies seeking to accelerate economic transformation.

    Continental integration to support Africa’s growth agenda

    According to the source, Africa’s long-term development priorities increasingly align with initiatives aimed at improving regional integration and strengthening intra-African trade. The African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) seek to create a more connected continental economy by reducing trade barriers, expanding regional value chains and supporting industrial development.

    Economists have highlighted regional integration, investment in transport networks, education and stronger institutional capacity as essential factors for sustainable economic growth. Greater connectivity is expected to improve market access, stimulate manufacturing, and enhance Africa’s competitiveness in global trade.

    Experts believe these priorities closely correspond with the broader objectives of China–Africa cooperation, which emphasises infrastructure development, technology transfer, industrial capacity building and knowledge exchange.

    Long-term China–Africa cooperation

    The 2024 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) marked another step in expanding bilateral engagement across trade, healthcare, education, agriculture and cultural exchange.

    During the summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping reaffirmed support for Africa’s modernisation agenda, stressing that all countries have the right to pursue development. The summit also reinforced cooperation under initiatives designed to improve infrastructure, expand investment and strengthen economic resilience.

    Both sides continue to prioritise practical collaboration in areas including transport networks, logistics, digital infrastructure, renewable energy, agricultural modernisation, skills development and public health.

    Trade and infrastructure as central pillars

    Trade continues to be a major driver of China–Africa relations. Recent measures providing broader tariff-free market access for products from many African countries are expected to support export growth, industrial production and economic diversification across the continent.

    Infrastructure investment also remains a cornerstone of the partnership. Railways, ports, energy facilities, industrial parks and digital connectivity projects are helping improve regional logistics, facilitate cross-border commerce and strengthen supply chains.

    Alongside physical infrastructure, cooperation increasingly focuses on innovation, vocational training, research collaboration and technology transfer to enhance long-term productivity and competitiveness.

    Shared vision for Global South cooperation

    With a combined population approaching three billion people, China and Africa together represent more than one-third of the world’s population, giving their partnership growing significance for the future of global economic development.

    The relationship increasingly reflects broader trends towards stronger South–South cooperation, with both sides advocating inclusive growth, sustainable development and greater participation of developing countries in global governance.

    As China–Africa cooperation continues to expand through multilateral dialogue and practical development initiatives, both partners are positioning their relationship as a model for collaborative modernisation based on mutual respect and shared prosperity.

    Courtesy/ The Diplomatic Society & TV BRICS

  • Mudavadi hails NYOTA programme as a game changer for youth

    Mudavadi hails NYOTA programme as a game changer for youth

    Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has underscored the role of the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) Programme in equipping vulnerable youth with capital and skills to create employment opportunities.

    Speaking during the second disbursement exercise of the NYOTA Start-Up Capital Programme at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology in Kakamega County, Mudavadi said the initiative will support 820,000 youth aged between 18 and 29 years, as well as persons with disabilities aged up to 35 years.

    The Prime CS, who is also the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, interacted with beneficiaries from Bungoma, Kakamega, Busia and Vihiga counties, who shared how the first tranche of the Sh22,000 payment had transformed their businesses and livelihoods.

    The programme targets vulnerable and marginalised youth who have not advanced beyond secondary school, providing them with seed capital to invest in income-generating activities across all 1,450 wards in the country.

    Mudavadi noted that the global labour market is expected to face a growing employment gap, with more than 1.6 billion youth in developing countries, including Kenya, projected to seek jobs in the next 10 to 15 years, compared to about 400 million jobs expected to be created.

    He described the challenge as a development, economic and security concern, noting that the government has placed youth empowerment at the centre of its Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

    The Prime CS outlined that NYOTA delivers support through two pathways — enhancing youth employability through skills development, recognition of prior learning, on-the-job experience and stronger employment systems, while encouraging a savings culture.

    The programme also expands youth entrepreneurship opportunities through business training, start-up capital, mentorship and market access initiatives, including training under the Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO) programme.