KBC Channel 1

Blog

  • Junior Starlets demolish South Africa to seal World Cup ticket

    Junior Starlets demolish South Africa to seal World Cup ticket

    Kenya’s Junior Starlets are heading back to the FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup after defeating South Africa 3-1 at the Nyayo National Stadium, completing a dominant 5-1 aggregate victory.

    The visitors struck early through Katleho Malebana in the fifth minute, but Kenya responded strongly in the second half.

    Gaudancia Maloba equalised in the 70th minute before Brenda Awuor calmly converted a late penalty to put the hosts ahead.

    Elizabeth Alizeba then sealed the victory with a third goal moments later, sparking celebrations among the home fans.

    The win secures the Junior Starlets’ second qualification for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, set to take place from October 17 to November 7, 2026 in Morocco.

    The achievement marks another historic milestone for the Kenyan side, who became the country’s first football team to compete at a FIFA World Cup during their debut appearance in the Dominican Republic in 2024, where they also registered a memorable victory over Mexico.

    Kenya will now look to build on that experience as they prepare for another shot on the global stage.

     

     

  • All set ahead of inaugural Estuary Wetsand Marathon

    All set ahead of inaugural Estuary Wetsand Marathon

    National Olympics Committee of Kenya (NOCK) has intensified preparation for the first ever Estuary Wetsand marathon set to be held in November 28 this year.

    Former NOCK President Dr Paul Tergat led a team of senior officials to the estuary to launch the Sabaki Estuary Wetsand Marathon Awareness Walk, Official Marathon Flag off, Community Clean up and Mangrove restoration exercise.

    The Marathon being Progress Welfare Association of Malindi (PWAM), has been described as a movement to raise awareness about plastic pollution to help restore the coastal ecosystems, and inspire collective environmental action.

    On the Material Day the race is set to begin at the sand dunes along the Golden beach of Mamburui across the estuary where the River Sabaki meets the Ocean and stretch to the Malindi Marine National Park and Reserve.

    Hundreds of stakeholders led by PWAM including conservationists, hoteliers, business people, School children, County and National Government officials, KWS, Police, Judiciary, Casino Malindi among many others turned up for the clean up from Malindi round about to Malindi casino.

    Later the whole delegation moved to the estuary where they planted 1000 mangrove seedlings, cleaned up the estuary and then Tergat accompanied by Felix Ngalla the Secretary Athletics Kenya Coast region and Race Director, Barnaba Korir the First Deputy President National Olympics Committee Kenya and member of the Executive Committee in charge of Youth Development Programs Athletics Kenya officially flagged off the marathon

    Speaking to journalists the Tergat said the Sabaki Estuary Wet sand Marathon was unique and important initiative for conservation and cleaning beaches.

    “I come from Sports today we are not competing for medals or positions but the key thing we are competing here is that all of us including the community planting these mangrove trees is to preserve our nature for future and cleaning the beaches we are not cleaning for ourselves but for future generation,” he said.

    Tergat said everyone who should be part and parcel of the marathon as at the end all of them will be champions by ensuring the environment is clean.

    Korir the First Deputy President of NOCK on his part hailed PWAM for organising the Sabaki Estuary Wetsand marathon saying it will not only attract runners but shall also promote sports tourism.

    “This is something National Olympics Committee is interested in in nurturing the talents, supporting the event to promote the tourism and sports activities in this region,” he said.

    Felix Ngalla the race Director and Athletics Kenya Secretary Coast Region said they would go full blast to ensure they market the event to attract many participants.

     

    He said the 21-kilometre race has a lot of money as the overall winner will get Sh. 0.5 million as well as the top  10 finsihers.

    Kate Mwikali the Chairperson of PWAM said through their monthly clean ups that begun in 2019 they discovered a lot of wastes that is brought by the river and the Ocean.

    She said the idea of the clean up was to raise awareness against pollution of the ecosystem so that policy makers, Community and the world at large ensure environment is kept clean.

    “The Marathon is the compliance of all the laws to do with the Solid Waste Management act,” he said.

    Kilifi County CEC Environment Omar Said together with the Malindi Municipality Manager Dadu Chome said they were happy to partner with PWAM and other stakeholders in organising the marathon so as to sensitize the public and the world against pollution.

    Malindi High Court Judge Lady Justice Mugure Thande said they were happy to be part of the initiative to keep the environment clean and preserve it for generations to come.

    “The Ocean is very important because it preserves lives and you know that Oceans cover more than 70 percent of the Earth and also it beholds us as human beings who inhabit the air to protect the environment that God has given us,” he said.

    Report by Dickson Wekesa

  • Dennis Chebitwey triumphs at inaugural IKM and Oxygène Golf tournament at Windsor

     Dennis Chebitwey emerged as the overall winner of the inaugural Iseme Kamau and Maema Advocates (IKM) and Oxygène Golf Tournament after returning an impressive 43 Stableford points at the par-72 Windsor Golf Hotel and Country Club .

    Playing off handicap 16, Chebitwey edged Yusuf Omari, who plays off handicap 23, by a single point after Omari carded 42 points in the tournament that attracted 145 golfers, including leading corporate executives, legal professionals, club members and business leaders from across Kenya.

    Speaking after cruising to victory, an elated Chebitwey said: “It was an incredible day on the course. I had a fantastic four-ball, and we really pushed each other throughout the round. I also want to thank Larry Ngala for introducing me to golf 26 years ago. The lessons and passion he instilled in me have kept me coming back to the game, and it is special to win a tournament like this.”

    In the other prize categories, Martin Gatheca (handicap 18) finished as the Men’s Runner-up, while Aggie Konde (handicap 18) claimed the Lady Winner title with 37 Stableford points. Bernadette Irungu, playing off handicap 27, returned 35 points to finish as the Lady Runner-up.

    The Sponsor Winner award went to NCBA Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer John Gachora, who, playing off handicap 18, carded 37 points. East African Breweries Limited (EABL) Group Managing Director and CEO Jane Karuku finished as the Sponsor Runner-up with 32 points.

    In the special prizes, Fidhelis Kimanzi won the Men’s Longest Drive while Kate Murima claimed the Ladies’ Longest Drive award. Alex Mwangi won the Men’s Nearest-to-the-Pin prize, with Rebecca Gathumbi taking the honours in the Ladies’ category.

    “Oxygène and IKM share common values and, importantly, many common clients. That is what inspired us to organize this tournament; not just as a day of golf, but as a platform to bring together our clients and potential clients, strengthen existing relationships and create meaningful networking opportunities in a relaxed environment,” noted Oxygène Chairman Linus Gitahi.

    IKM Chairman Senior Counsel James Kamau said: “Golf has a unique way of bringing people together. We are delighted by the overwhelming turnout for this inaugural tournament, which has provided an excellent opportunity for leaders across different sectors to connect, build relationships and create new partnerships. We look forward to growing this event even further.”

  • President Ruto pledges equal development for all regions

    President Ruto pledges equal development for all regions

    Every part of Kenya deserves and will receive a fair share of development irrespective of how or who they voted for, President William Ruto has said.

    The President therefore called on Kenyans to work together and forge ahead in an effort to ensure equitable development.

    Speaking during a Sunday service and fundraiser at ACK St Martin’s Cathedral in Kitui Town, he said the only way to transform the country is for leaders and citizens to unite behind a common vision.

    “The politics of exclusion, division and ethnicity is a stumbling block to our national development aspirations,” President Ruto said.

    And added: “We need to transform all parts of Kenya so that every citizen benefits and no one is discriminated against.”

    The President said all Kenyans pay taxes and deserve development, stating that politics must not stand in the way of transformative programmes.

    “No part of Kenya will be marginalised. Even areas that did not vote for me will get their rightful share of development,” he pointed out.

    The President was accompanied by Labour Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua, Principal Secretaries Teresia Mbaika (Aviation and Aerospace) and Jonathan Mueke (Livestock), MPs Vincent Musau Kawaya (Mwala), Mwengi Mutuse (Kibwezi West), Nimrod Mbai (Kitui East), Charles Nguna (Mwingi West), Rachel Nyamai (Kitui South), Joshua Mwalyo (Masinga), and former Kitui Senator David Musila.

    The President pointed out that Kenya had stagnated for long and been left behind by its peers of the 1960s, saying time had come for delivery of tangible transformative chang.

    He, therefore, urged Kenyans to scrutinise political leaders at all levels and elect them to office on the strength of their development track record or vision.

    “Some leaders have been in key Government positions for decades, yet they have little to show in development,” he said.

    President Ruto noted that the newly established National Infrastructure Fund provides a sustainable way of implementing major projects, including dams, roads, and airports.

    “We know that this region has a serious water problem. We have been talking about dams for 40 years. We now have a formula, under the National Infrastructure Fund, to deliver these projects,” he said.

    The President explained that the fund had already mobilised Ksh.350 billion – Ksh.244 billion from Safaricom Government share sale and Ksh.106 billion from the partial divestiture of State shareholding in the Kenya Pipeline Company.

    At the same time, he announced that work on the stalled Thwake Dam had resumed after the project was allocated KSh10.6 billion. The mega irrigation project is now expected to be completed in April 2027.

    The dam, President Ruto noted, would provide water for irrigation, livestock and domestic use when it is completed early next year.

    Umaa Dam in Kitui, which has also stalled for close to 15 years, will be revived and completed.

    Additionally, Ksh.15 billion has been invested in the construction of 1,000 affordable housing, 20 modern markets and hostels to accommodate 6,000 university and college students in the county.

    Explaining that the programme had initially been hampered by the challenges of land availability, the President said these had now been resolved.

    “We have therefore gotten land to build 1,000 housing units in Manyenyoni,” he said.

    Of the 20 modern markets meant for Kitui County, construction of 11 is underway while procurement processes are going on for the other nine. So far, Ksh.2.2 billion has been allocated for the facilities.

    “We want to make sure that we provide Mama Mboga and other traders with a clean environment, and provide water, electricity and digital hubs,” President Ruto pointed out.

    The markets will also have cold storage rooms and other vital amenities.

    On education, the President said an additional Ksh.80 billion has been added to this year’s budget – from Ksh.702 billion in the 2025/26 financial year to Ksh.784 billion in 2016/27 – to boost learning in schools, colleges and universities. The funds, he noted, are meant to ensure equal opportunities for all Kenyan learners.

    In the past three years, he noted, the Government has hired 100,000 teachers and will employ another 24,000 this year.

    “In total, 124,000 teachers will have been hired in four years, five times more than previous administrations had done in a similar period,” he added.

    On health, the President said Ksh.2 billion has been disbursed to hospitals in Kitui under the Social Health Authority (SHA).

    He said 31 million Kenyans have registered with SHA compared to eight million under the defunct National Health Insurance Fund.

    In Kitui, he noted, 537,000 people have registered, representing nearly 50 per cent of the population.

    “When you go to hospitals for outpatient services, don’t pay anything. The Government is paying so long as you have registered with SHA,” he said, stating that health is a right for all Kenyans as stipulated in the Constitution.

    Meanwhile, he explained that the Broad-Based Government was formed to foster inclusive development.

    “As the people of Kitui and Ukambani, this Government belongs to you, as it does to all other Kenyans, and you will get your fair share of development,” he assured the residents.

    Leaders who spoke at the event commended the President for taking development to every region of Kenya.

    “Many people now understand why we must work with the Government,” Mwala MP Kawaya said.

    Kitui South MP Rachel Nyamai said: “You have not sidelined us because of the number of votes we gave you.”

    Former Kitui Senator David Musila pointed out: “We were told this is a Government of shares. But you have demolished that myth and taken development to every part of the country.”

    The President began his visit to Kitui County on Saturday by inspecting the Chuluni-Zombe Road in Kitui East Constituency.

    He said construction of the 25km road, launched in November 2025, will be completed in June 2027. The road will improve connectivity in the county and link Chuluni, Zombe and Kitui town, boosting trade, incomes and jobs

    Overall, the Government is building 250km of road projects in Kitui, with Ksh5.5 billion set aside for the development of the infrastructure.

    He also toured the construction site of Zombe Modern Market, which began in March 2025 and is set for completion in December 2026.

  • Don’t gamble with 2027 presidential election, DP Kindiki urges Mt Kenya

    Don’t gamble with 2027 presidential election, DP Kindiki urges Mt Kenya

    Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has urged Mt. Kenya residents not to gamble with coming elections in 2027, saying re-electing President Ruto is the best option for the region.

    The DP asked the residents to continue supporting the President, stating that once he secures the second term in next year’s polls, the region will stand a stronger chance to take over.

    Prof. Kindiki reiterated the need to remain focused to ensure President Ruto gets his second term but that they should not lose sight of the great opportunity that will present itself after it has been accomplished.

    Speaking on Sunday in Meru County where he attended two Church Services and addressed a public rally, Prof. Kindiki told the Meru community not to play with the big opportunity to take over the nation’s top leadership after President Ruto.

    “Don’t play ping pong with a chance like this at the Presidency. Just like in football, like in the ongoing World Cup, the best placed person to score receives the ball and he puts the ball in the net and we all celebrate.

    After President Ruto, I am the best placed person to take over from him. I’m the striker staring at the goal, why should anyone else tell you to recycle the ball to the defenders yet I, as the striker, is standing strong and well placed to score?” DP posed.

    The Second in Command attended a service at Methodist Church, Abothuguchi Synod in Imenti Central Constituency and led a resource mobilization drive for construction of its headquarters in the morning. Later in the afternoon, he represented President Ruto during a funds drive for the construction of Methodist Church, Laare Synod in Igembe North Constituency. He also addressed a public rally at Laare town in the evening.

    Prof. Kindiki said the community does not stand any chance in other formations, including in the disjointed opposition, propping up the opportunity that has presented itself through the Head of State.

    “In the other formation, this region is not in any consideration to take over presidency anytime in the near future but with the one under the stewardship of President Ruto, the fireman is just next after him. Don’t take fruitful chances like this for granted. Do not be deceived, this is the best possible opportunity for us to ascend to the Presidency,” he urged.

    The Deputy President took time to underscore his political credentials nurtured through many years serving in significant offices where he excelled in service delivery. He warned those belittling him to be ready for a big surprise.

    “Let them continue insulting me, belittling me and saying all sorts of things. I served as senator for 10 years, five years as Majority Leader and three years as Deputy Speaker. I have been Interior Cabinet Secretary for two years and now Deputy President. They must respect us,” DP noted.

    During the events, Prof. Kindiki also said they are not supporting the President for the sake of it but because of the unrivalled development he has overseen in the region since taking over.

    He enumerated ongoing projects costing billions of shillings at various level of completion pledging to push for more.

    Among them are the upgrading of Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital to Level 6 which is progressing steadily, road projects at 39 billion shillings, electricity expansion at 2.3 billion shillings, modern markets among others. The redesigning of Nithi bridge is being hastened despite compensation challenges involving affected landowners.

    “There is no other government that has accorded undivided attention to Meru region than President Ruto’s government. I am asking our people not to return this great favour with disrespect. There is no other place for us outside this government. Do not be deceived by those who failed to do anything for us when they were in power,” DP stated.

    As the government works hard to deliver its promises to the residents, Prof. Kindiki called for patience saying everything that has been pledged will be done.

    “The President is being pressured to deliver everything now as if he is the first President of the country. We have had four presidents before him. We will deliver all our promises but let us be patient,” he said.

     

     

  • Wetang’ula rallies Bungoma behind Ruto, cites development projects

    Wetang’ula rallies Bungoma behind Ruto, cites development projects

    National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged Bungoma residents to back President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027 arguing that the Kenya Kwanza administration has delivered on key development promises that are transforming the county.

    Speaking during an empowerment programme for boda boda groups in Webuye East Constituency on Sunday, Wetang’ula said the government’s investments in infrastructure, public services and industry had begun improving livelihoods across the region and should be safeguarded through continuity in leadership.

    He cited the payment of more than Ksh.229 million in terminal dues to former Pan Paper workers following the collapse of the Webuye-based paper mill as evidence that the government had honoured its commitments.

    “The government has honoured its commitment to former Pan Paper workers by settling their long-outstanding dues. This is a clear demonstration that President Ruto keeps his promises,” he said.

    The Speaker also pointed to the revival of Nzoia Sugar Company, saying the once-struggling mill had resumed operations under a new investor and offered renewed hope to thousands of cane farmers.

    “Nzoia Sugar was dead and there was no hope for its revival. Today, the progress made by the investor is commendable,” he said.

    He urged Members of Parliament to support measures that would shield local sugar farmers from cheap imports.

    “We must ensure there are no unnecessary sugar imports so that all cane grown by our farmers is harvested, milled and farmers are paid on time. Nzoia Sugar is once again becoming the pride our people have long yearned for,” he said.

    Wetang’ula highlighted several other projects being undertaken by the national government, including the rehabilitation of Matulo Airstrip, whose 400-metre runway is expected to be commissioned next month, the construction of the Webuye Market, and the expansion of the Rironi-Mau Summit-Eldoret-Webuye-Malaba highway.

    He said the highway would improve the movement of goods and people while reducing accidents at notorious blackspots such as Muhonja and Kaburengu.

    The Speaker also cited the near-complete Masinde Muliro Stadium in Kanduyi and the operational passport issuance centre in Bungoma as examples of efforts to decentralise government services and stimulate economic growth.

    He further announced plans for a smart city on the site of the former Bungoma airstrip saying the development would host shopping malls, international retail brands, entertainment facilities and other commercial amenities.

    “If you want to watch a movie, go swimming, or shop at major retail outlets, you will find all those services there,” he said.

    Wetang’ula also said the planned extension of the Standard Gauge Railway from Naivasha to Malaba would pass through Mianga in Bungoma County, where a railway station would be constructed.

    “If you want to travel to Nairobi, it will take about four hours from Bungoma once the railway is complete. That will significantly reduce travel time and improve connectivity,” he said.

    The Speaker thanked Bungoma residents for what he described as their decisive support in the 2022 presidential election and expressed confidence that they would once again back President Ruto in 2027.

    “I have toured different parts of the country and I can confirm that support for President Ruto’s re-election is growing across the country,” he said.

    He urged eligible voters, particularly young people, to acquire national identity cards, register as voters and participate in the 2027 General Election.

    “Development is sustained through continuity. We must protect the gains we have made by remaining united and participating in the democratic process,” he said.

    Wetang’ula also cautioned residents against leaders he accused of promoting divisive politics in Western Kenya saying unity was essential for sustaining the region’s development agenda.

    “We should not allow anyone to divide our people for political gain. Our unity is our strength, and together we can secure greater development for future generations,” he said.

     

     

  • DCI arrests prime suspect in murder of Joy Kanini Gathu

    DCI arrests prime suspect in murder of Joy Kanini Gathu

    Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Homicide Investigations Bureau have arrested the prime suspect in the brutal murder of 25-year-old Joy Kanini Gathu, bringing to an end an intelligence-led manhunt that culminated in Timau, Meru County.

    In a statement by DCI, the suspect, John Nderitu Mureithi, was arrested on the night of July 10, 2026, along the Nanyuki–Isiolo Road while allegedly attempting to flee to Uganda.

    “A search conducted immediately after his arrest led to the recovery of four mobile phones, among them the deceased’s handset, which has been secured as a key exhibit in the ongoing investigation,” read the statement.

    The suspect was subsequently booked at Kiganjo Police Station.

    During interrogation, detectives established that on June 9, 2026, a confrontation between the suspect and the deceased inside his house in Ngangarithi Estate, Nyeri, turned fatal.

    Investigations further established that the suspect later dismembered the body and disposed of the remains at different locations in a calculated attempt to conceal the crime and frustrate investigations.

    The suspect is expected to be presented before court tomorrow, Monday, July 13, 2026, as detectives seek custodial orders to facilitate completion of the investigation.

    The Directorate of Criminal Investigations extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Joy Kanini Gathu and remains steadfast in its commitment to conducting thorough, fair and impartial investigations to ensure justice is served.

  • Churches must remain sanctuaries of unity, not platforms for division, says PS Omollo

    Churches must remain sanctuaries of unity, not platforms for division, says PS Omollo

    The Church should not provide a platform for leaders who preach division, hatred and tribalism, Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Dr.Raymond Omollo has said.

    Speaking during a church service at St.Pascal Catholic Church, Chiga, in Homa Bay County, Dr. Omollo urged religious leaders to safeguard the sanctity of places of worship by ensuring that church pulpits are used to promote peace, unity, truth and national cohesion rather than political intolerance and divisive rhetoric.

    The PS noted that the Church plays a critical role in shaping values, nurturing responsible citizens and fostering harmony within communities, and therefore has a duty to speak against misinformation, hatred and actions that threaten the country’s unity.
    “Let us not desecrate our churches by allowing platforms meant for spiritual nourishment to be used to spread division and hatred. The Church must continue standing for truth, peace and unity,” he said.

    Dr. Omollo observed that Kenya’s progress depends on leaders and citizens embracing inclusivity and rejecting politics that seek to divide communities along ethnic, regional or political lines. He emphasized that every Kenyan deserves an equal opportunity to succeed regardless of where they come from.

    The PS commended the Catholic Church for its longstanding contribution to national development through investments in education, healthcare and social services, describing it as one of the Government’s strongest partners in advancing the well-being of communities across the country.

    He noted that church-sponsored schools, hospitals and community programmes have complemented Government efforts in improving access to essential services and promoting moral values among citizens.

    Dr. Omollo further called on leaders at all levels to prioritize service delivery and development over divisive politics, saying the country’s future depends on maintaining peace, stability and national cohesion.

    He urged Kenyans to continue working together in building a united and prosperous nation, adding that development can only thrive in an environment where citizens respect one another and embrace their shared identity as Kenyans.

    The PS also lauded President William Ruto’s administration for pursuing an inclusive development agenda aimed at ensuring that all regions of the country benefit from government programmes and projects, regardless of political affiliation.

    He reiterated that religious institutions remain vital partners in promoting peaceful coexistence and strengthening the social fabric that holds the nation together.

    Among the leaders present were Senator Oburu Odinga, Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga, Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Energy Opiyo Wandayi, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga, Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma, Homa Bay Senator Moses Kajwang’a, Migori Woman Representative Fatuma Mohammed, Nyando MP Jared Okelo, Nicholas Gumbo, Joshua Aduma, Lake Basin Development Authority Managing Director CPA Wycliffe Ochiaga and several Members of County Assembly.

  • Seven arrested as police seize 13,200 litres of ethanol in Thika

    Seven arrested as police seize 13,200 litres of ethanol in Thika

    Seven suspects have been arrested after a multi-agency security operation in Thika West Sub-County led to the seizure of 13,200 litres of ethanol, thousands of suspected counterfeit cigarette packets and two lorries believed to have transported the illicit goods.

    According to a statement by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the operation focused on a compound thought to be used for storing and distributing illegal goods.

    During the raid, officers found 66 drums, each holding 200 litres, filled with ethanol.

    The team also discovered 17,640 packets of suspected counterfeit Pall Mall cigarettes hidden beneath various animal hides inside one of the lorries at the site.

    Further the operation led to the impounding of two lorries believed to have transported the illegal consignment.

    The detectives noted that all recovered items have been secured as exhibits as investigations continue to determine the full scope of the criminal network involved.

    The seven suspects arrested, Isaack Muthee, Lenkai Olemelei, Simon Ndung’u, Paul Mwangi, Stephen Mbugua, Julius Mutuku, and Nicolete Lodway, are in police custody awaiting processing and arraignment.

    The Directorate of Criminal Investigations reiterated their commitment in fighting illegal trade networks that threaten public health, support organised crime, undermine legitimate businesses.

    “The Directorate of Criminal Investigations remains focused in breaking down illegal trade networks that threaten public health, support organised crime, undermine legitimate businesses, and deprive the country of vital revenue,” read the statement.

     

  • Former Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies

    Former Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani dies

    Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the former Emir of Qatar whose nearly two-decade rule reshaped the small Gulf nation into a global energy powerhouse and diplomatic hub, has died at the age of 74.

    The Amiri Diwan, Qatar’s ruling office, announced his passing on Sunday morning, describing it as a profound loss for the nation and offering prayers for God’s mercy on his soul.

    Sheikh Hamad came to power in 1995 and ruled Qatar for 18 years before making the unusual decision to voluntarily hand the throne to his son, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, in 2013 — a rare act of abdication among hereditary Gulf rulers.

    His tenure is widely credited with turning Qatar from a relatively obscure Gulf state into one of the wealthiest countries in the world by per-capita income, driven largely by the expansion of its liquefied natural gas industry. Under his leadership, Qatar also launched the Al Jazeera media network in 1996, adopted its first permanent constitution in 2004, and introduced municipal elections that allowed women to vote and run as candidates.

    Sheikh Hamad also secured Qatar’s successful bid to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a milestone that triggered a massive wave of infrastructure investment and helped redefine Doha’s skyline.

    Beyond domestic reforms, Sheikh Hamad positioned Qatar as an ambitious mediator in regional conflicts, involving the country in efforts to ease tensions in Sudan’s Darfur region, Lebanon’s internal political disputes, and the rivalry between Palestinian factions Hamas and Fatah. In 2012, he became the first head of state to visit Gaza since Hamas took control of the territory five years earlier, pledging hundreds of millions of dollars in aid and investment.

    His government’s willingness to engage with groups such as Hamas, the Muslim Brotherhood, and Iran drew criticism from some Western and regional allies, even as it cemented Qatar’s reputation as an independent power broker. Late in his rule, Qatar also opened a Taliban political office, a move that eventually paved the way for negotiations between the United States and the Taliban.

    Condolences arrived quickly from regional leaders. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi offered sympathies to Qatar’s government and people, while UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan extended personal condolences to current Emir Sheikh Tamim, praising the late leader’s contributions to regional cooperation.

    Sheikh Hamad’s death marks the close of a defining chapter in modern Qatari history, one that saw the nation rise dramatically in global economic and diplomatic influence.