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  • Strathmore Leos survive Nondies scare to defend Ruff n Tuff 7s crown

    Strathmore Leos survive Nondies scare to defend Ruff n Tuff 7s crown

    Strathmore Leos held their nerve in a tense finale to retain their Ruff n Tuff 7s title on Saturday, edging hosts Nondescripts RFC by the barest of margins at Ngong Racecourse Grounds.

    The defending champions, who lifted the inaugural title last year with a comfortable win over Mwamba RFC, found no such comfort this time around. Nondies, celebrating 103 years as Kenya’s oldest rugby club, pushed the Leos all the way in a final that lived up to its billing as the toughest test yet for the tournament’s new-look draw.

    Strathmore had been drawn into a difficult Pool A alongside Nondies, Kenya Harlequins, and Blak Blad, and had to fight through a congested playoff race just to reach the knockout stages. That grind appeared to pay off, with the Leos showing the composure needed to close out a close contest under pressure.

    For Nondies, the result will sting given the significance of the occasion. As tournament hosts and organisers, the club had hoped to add a first Ruff n Tuff title to their milestone anniversary celebrations. Instead, they will have to settle for the runners-up spot, though their performance signals they’ll be strong contenders again next year.

    This year’s edition also broke new ground with the introduction of a women’s exhibition match between Kenya Harlequins and Mwamba, part of organisers’ push to expand the tournament beyond its men’s-only origins.

    With the Ruff n Tuff 7s serving as a key warm-up event, both Strathmore and Nondies will now turn their attention to the National Sevens Circuit, where the margins may need to be wider if the Leos hope to carry their momentum forward.

  • Nairobi youth top streaming in 3 African countries, new data reveals ahead of Greasy Tunes launch

    Nairobi youth top streaming in 3 African countries, new data reveals ahead of Greasy Tunes launch

    New music data reveals that Nairobi youth, aged between 18 and 24, account for 53.7% of all streams in the city in the month of June 2026.

    This data means Nairobi has the highest share of Gen Z listeners among the three African cities analysed. By comparison, 18–24 listeners made up 44.4% of streams in Lagos and 29.9% in Johannesburg, according to Spotify.

    The new data comes ahead of the streamer’s event scheduled for Wednesday, dubbed the Greasy Tunes.

    “Greasy Tunes Nairobi brings the data to life by showing how young Kenyans actually listen: across genres, across formats, and across the social moments that shape the city,” said Agnes Opondo, Artist and Label Partnerships, East Africa, Spotify. “ Over 12 days, we are creating space for artists, communities, food, conversation and sound to meet in one programme, reflecting Nairobi’s energy as a culture hub where music is not just streamed, but experienced together.”

    Additionally, the newly released report also gives insight into the growth of specific genres such as Gospel, which grew 37% in Nairobi.

    Other genres that showed growth in Nairobi include:

    • Dancehall – 95% year on year, the fastest-growing genre in the dataset
    • Bongo flava – 75%, reflecting accelerating cultural exchange between Kenya and Tanzania
    • Gengetone, the genre born in Nairobi, grew 48%
    • Amapiano – 34%, continuing its expansion from South Africa into East Africa
    • Afrobeats (+25%)
    • R&B (+28%)
    • Afropop (+21%)

    Addressing the average listening time, the company said Nairobi’s stream rate was the highest.

    “Nairobi’s 18–24 listeners stream throughout the day, with listening strongest from midday into early evening. The highest hour for this age group is 12 pm, while 6 pm marks the peak for all age groups in the city,” the report said. “The work and focus window (10 am–4 pm) accounts for 39.7% of Gen Z’s daily listening, with the evening (5–10 pm) contributing another 30.5%. Even between 2 am and 5 am, 18–24 listeners account for 55% of all streams in the city.”

    Spotify will officially launch Greasy Tunes from July 15 at 6 pm with an evening event before the 12-day programme continues through to July 26 with the aim of reflecting “the breadth of ways Nairobi’s Gen Z engages with culture and audio.”

    The programme highlights include live music performances, the Fresh Finds emerging-artist showcase, the Nakili Sessions, a Gospel and Alt Night, and a football-adjacent watch party

  • Infantino opens door to 64-team World Cup

    Infantino opens door to 64-team World Cup

    Plans for a 64-team men’s World Cup are set to be assessed after the 2026 tournament, with Fifa boss Gianni Infantino saying the event needs to be “for the whole world”.

    The proposal for an expanded tournament was put forward last year, and Infantino says the success of the expanded 48-team tournament means Fifa should look at how a 64-team World Cup could work.

    “These are all issues that we will be examining after the World Cup,” Infantino told Swiss broadcaster Blue Sport, external when asked if the tournament could grow to 64 teams.

    “When organising a World Cup, it’s important to organise it for the whole world – not just Europe and South America, but effectively the entire world. Every nation should be allowed to dream of participating in the World Cup.

    “You can see that the quality of the teams is extremely high, and it’s getting higher and higher, all over the world. If you don’t give smaller countries a chance to participate in the World Cup, they’ll lack the incentive to keep improving.”

    Infantino said that the first 48-team World Cup has been “a huge success”, citing the progression of nine out of 10 African teams to the knockout stages.

    “At the last World Cup, there were only five teams from Africa,” he said. “That just goes to show how important it is to include all teams – to give them this opportunity to participate.”

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • 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.

  • Colombian Star Campaz receives death threats after World Cup exit, skips flight home

    Colombian Star Campaz receives death threats after World Cup exit, skips flight home

    Colombian midfielder Jaminton Campaz has become the target of death threats after missing a crucial scoring chance in Colombia’s Round of 16 exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the Colombian Football Federation condemning the threats and demanding a formal investigation.

    Colombia’s tournament ended on July 7 in a penalty shootout defeat to Switzerland following a scoreless draw and extra time.

    Campaz had one of the best chances to win the game outright in extra time, intercepting a stray pass from Switzerland’s Granit Xhaka but firing his effort off target in the 115th minute.

    He later converted his own penalty in the shootout, but Colombia still fell 4-3 as Switzerland advanced.

    In the aftermath, Campaz’s social media accounts were flooded with abusive comments and threats, prompting him to limit comments on his accounts and, as a precaution, skip the team’s return flight home with his teammates.

    The Colombian Football Federation condemned the threats, stating that no athlete or member of their circle should face intimidation for representing their country.

    The federation has also pressed the national attorney general’s office to move quickly in identifying those responsible.

    Campaz addressed the backlash directly, writing in Spanish that frustration and sadness are understandable, but that no level of passion justifies hatred or living in fear. The episode has revived painful memories of Colombian football’s darkest chapter.

    After Colombia’s elimination from the 1994 World Cup, defender Andrés Escobar was shot and killed in Medellín days after scoring an own goal in a group-stage loss to the United States.

    A tragedy widely linked to the country’s gambling-fueled football culture at the time.

    More than three decades on, Colombia’s federation is urging fans to ensure sporting heartbreak never again spills into real-world violence.

  • Four arrested as police seize 3,860 litres of illicit brew in Kahawa West

    Four arrested as police seize 3,860 litres of illicit brew in Kahawa West

    Police have seized 3,860 litres of illicit brew and arrested four suspects following an intelligence-led operation conducted in Soweto area, Kahawa West.

    The operation, carried out by officers from Kahawa West Police Station on July 12, 2026, led to the dismantling of an illegal brewing den.

    A total of 3,800 litres of Kangara and 60 litres of Chang’aa were recovered during the raid. Officers also confiscated equipment used in the production of the illicit alcohol.

    The four suspects were taken into custody and are awaiting arraignment in court.

    The National Police Service (NPS) says it remains committed to dismantling criminal networks involved in the manufacture and distribution of illicit brews and narcotic drugs. The Service has also appealed to members of the public to continue working closely with police by providing information that will help curb the illegal trade.

    “Reports of any suspicious activity should be made at the nearest police station or through the toll-free numbers 999 and 911, via FichuaKwaDCI on 0800 722 203, or by WhatsApp on 0709 570 000 to report anonymously,” says NPS.

     

  • Gor Mahia raids Police camp as Goeffrey Ochieng switches sides

    Gor Mahia raids Police camp as Goeffrey Ochieng switches sides

    Gor Mahia have completed the signings of full-back Daniel Sakari and winger David Okoth from Kenya Police FC, while vice-captain Geoffrey “Simiti” Ochieng has completed a switch in the opposite direction to join the Law Enforcers.

    Sakari, a Harambee Stars international, joins K’Ogalo on a two-year deal after leaving Kenya Police as a free agent, fending off reported interest from Tanzania’s Azam FC and clubs in Morocco.

    The 27-year-old, comfortable at right-back, left-back or wing-back, has been capped in AFCON and World Cup qualifiers and is expected to strengthen Gor Mahia’s defence for both the domestic league and CAF Champions League campaigns.

    David Okoth signing for Gor Mahia

    Okoth follows a similar path out of Kenya Police, joining Gor Mahia on a two-year contract after four years with the Law Enforcers, during which he won the FKF Premier League title and the Mozzart Bet Cup.

    The pacy wide man previously featured for Kakamega Homeboyz and Nzoia Sugar before establishing himself at Kenya Police.

    Going the other way is Ochieng, nicknamed “Simiti” by Gor Mahia fans for his physicality, who is set to swap Green Army colours for Kenya Police.

    The vice-captain has been a fixture in K’Ogalo’s backline in recent seasons, including continental outings against the likes of Al Ahly.

    Goeffrey Ochieng ‘Simiti’

    The double arrival adds to a busy off-season for Gor Mahia, who have also brought in goalkeepers Michael Onyango and Humphrey Katasi, forward Hansel Ochieng, midfielder Enock Machaka and striker Paul Okoth as the club overhauls its squad following its league triumph and ahead of a fresh CAF Champions League push.

  • Waiguru leads final UDA campaign push in Ol Kalou, calls for peaceful by-election

    Waiguru leads final UDA campaign push in Ol Kalou, calls for peaceful by-election

    Campaigns for the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election came to an end Monday, with United Democratic Alliance (UDA) leaders asking police and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to ensure peaceful elections on Thursday.

    Led by Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru, the UDA leaders said the party does not condone violence and asked IEBC to work closely with security agencies to deal with any unlikely event of violence during and after the elections.

    Waiguru said UDA was optimistic Muchina would win the July 16 by-elections to represent the people of Ol Kalou as their next Member of Parliament (MP).

    The Governor made the remarks during a series of campaign engagements with dairy farmers and business community at Ol Kalou town and residents of Rurii ward.

    She asked supporters of all the candidates to exercise tolerance during and after voting.

    “At the end of the day there will be a winner, as a party we know politics is about competition and we ask our competitors to preach peace among their supporters. This is just a competition if you don’t get this time, you can get it next time,” she added.

    Waiguru asked IEBC to work closely with the security agencies to ensure the polls are peaceful and take action on anyone who violates the electoral code of conduct.

    “We want to ask the security agencies to ensure there is peace. Peace is paramount,” she added.

    She asked voters to support UDA candidate so as to remain in government and reap benefits of getting their rightful share of resources for development.

    The engagements were attended by former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria, Mps; Duncan Maina (Nyeri Town), Jane Kagiri (Laikipia), Michael Muchira (Ol Jororok), Peter Wamacukuru (Kabete) and Principal Secretary (PS) for Cooperatives Patrick Kilemi, and his counterpart for Livestock Jonathan Mueke.

    In his final appeal to the people, Muchina asked voters to give him a chance to represent them in parliament because he understands their needs.

    He asked his supporters to maintain peace during and after the elections saying violence has no place the society.

    “Political violence and destruction of property has no place in this election. As my supporters, I want to ask you to maintain peace and refuse to be use to commit any act of lawlessness,” Muchina said.

    Muchina has promised to prioritize education, improvement of roads, supply of electricity and water to the residents of Ol Kalou if elected as their MP.

    He said his priority would be improving service delivery in Ol Kalou through investments in infrastructure and social amenities.

    “Development comes through partnership and cooperation. We need a leader who will work with the government to bring more resources, opportunities, and projects to the people of Ol Kalou,” he said.

  • “Almost every sexually active adult will encounter HPV ”, Janet Mbugua warns

    “Almost every sexually active adult will encounter HPV ”, Janet Mbugua warns

    Media personality Janet Mbugua is raising awareness about the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and the importance of understanding sexual health.

    Speaking in a recent social media post, Ms Mbugua urged parents to sit with the uncomfortable truth that their children were having sex.

    “Almost every sexually active adult will run into HPV at some point in their life. Almost everyone,” Mbugua said. “Let’s talk about the uncomfortable part. Teenagers are having sex…sometimes with multiple partners.”

    Ms Mbugua also said that it was better to acknowledge this uncomfortable truth than to ignore it and risk their children.

    “Whether that sits well with us or not, whether it fits the timeline that you think it should, it’s already happening in our homes,” she added. “And instead of meeting that with information, we meet it with silence or shame or pretending that we didn’t hear.

    “I am not telling you any of this to scare you or to make anyone feel dirty or ashamed. No one chooses to carry a virus.”

    The media personality’s statement is supported by the World Health Organisation, which describes the virus as a sexually transmitted disease that can affect all sexually active individuals.

    In 2019, HPV caused an estimated 620 000 cancer cases in women and 70 000 cancer cases in men, according to WHO stats.

    Sharing the Kenya statistics, Ms Mbugua encouraged parents to consider the vaccine.

    “In Kenya, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women, and in estimates, we are losing 10 women every day from it; breast cancer affects women, but cervical kills.

    “We need radical acceptance… but there’s fear that exists with the vaccine. I understand why that fear exists. We all learned to be suspicious of things injected into our bodies without a full explanation. But this vaccine has been available for close to a decade and is one of the most monitored vaccines.”

    The HPV vaccine is available in Kenya for girls aged 10 to 14, following World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. The vaccine is provided free of charge at public health facilities, while private clinics charge between Kshs. 7,700 and Kshs 17,000 per dose depending on the vaccine type.

    The Inua Dada founder also urged parents to avoid the common gender misconceptions about the virus, asking parents to instead protect their children and themselves.

    “HPV is not a girl’s infection…men can carry HPV related cancers too. Yet the entire public conversation forgot boys exist. If you have kids, get them vaccinated, girls and boys, ideally before they become sexually active.

    “If you’re an adult, ask your doctor about catch-up doses. They exist. If you’re sexually active, get screened.”

  • 11 Al-Shabaab terrorists killed, seven injured near Kenyan border

    11 Al-Shabaab terrorists killed, seven injured near Kenyan border

    Eleven Al-Shabaab terrorists have been killed and seven others left with serious injuries following a ground assault near the Kenya-Somalia border.

    The intelligence led operation carried by the Special Operations Group (SOG) Sunday morning targeted makeshift camp where the terrorists were preparing to carry out a terror attack in one of the border villages in Mandera County.

    A police report said the ground assault with aerial support was launched on the terrorists numbering about 30 fighters.

    During the early morning assault 3 PKM guns and about 409 ammunitions were recovered as the terrorists were retreated into Somalia.