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No one will be spared over Ol Kalou violence – Murkomen

Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has asked security agencies to investigate allegations of violence and disorder during the Ol Kalou by-election, vowing that anyone found responsible will face the full force of the law.

Speaking in Trans Nzoia County after addressing the County Assembly and presiding over the opening of the Wellness and Committee Services Centre, Murkomen asserted that the Inspector General of Police had deployed adequate security personnel to safeguard the by-election.

“I want to assure Kenyans that the Inspector General of Police deployed enough officers to provide security in Ol Kalou,” he stated.

The CS emphasised that claims of individuals causing chaos during the exercise must be thoroughly investigated.

“Allegations of some persons causing havoc in Ol Kalou must be investigated thoroughly, and anyone culpable must be arrested, regardless of what they were doing and who deployed them,” Murkomen declared.

He added that police officers accused of misconduct would not be shielded from accountability.

“Whether they were deployed by the Inspector General and they went and misbehaved, they must be dealt with, and dealt with definitively,” he said.

Murkomen reiterated that the government would not tolerate political violence anywhere in the country, stressing that perpetrators must be prosecuted regardless of where the incidents occur.

“I assure Kenyans that we are not condoning violence. Whether it was Ol Kalou, Baringo, Narok, or during next year’s elections, perpetrators must be brought to book immediately,” he affirmed.

The Cabinet Secretary’s remarks come amid concerns over reported violence during the Ol Kalou by-election, with calls for investigations into the conduct of both civilians and some security officers during the poll.

July 16, 2026
Sifuna loses Deputy Senate Minority Whip seat

Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has been removed as Deputy Senate Minority Whip. Senate Speaker Amason Kingi confirmed the decision, which follows a resolution by the Minority Party to replace him with Migori Senator Eddy Oketch.

In a communication to the Senate on Thursday, Speaker Kingi stated that he had received correspondence from Senate Minority Leader Senator Stewart Madzayo. This included minutes from a Minority Party meeting held on 15 July and a signed list of senators supporting the resolution to remove Sifuna.

“The minority party has effected a change in the office of the Deputy Senate Minority Whip. The new officeholder, with immediate effect, is Senator Eddy Gicheru Oketch, MP,” Kingi announced.

The Speaker confirmed that he had verified the submitted documents, in accordance with Standing Order 23, before communicating the change to the House.

The communication indicated that the Minority Party resolved to remove Sifuna under Standing Order 23(4), which permits a senator elected to a minority leadership position to be removed by a majority vote of senators belonging to the Minority Party. The meeting also elected Oketch to succeed Sifuna, pursuant to Standing Order 23(5).

Kingi noted that the process complied with Standing Order 23(6), which requires such decisions to be communicated to the Speaker, along with the meeting minutes and supporting documentation, before being conveyed to the Senate within three sitting days.

The latest development comes just days after the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties upheld the Orange Democratic Movement’s (ODM) decision to remove Sifuna as the party’s Secretary General.

In a letter dated 9 July, the Registrar confirmed that ODM had adhered to the Political Parties Act and its constitution in conducting a fresh disciplinary process that led to Sifuna’s removal. Subsequently, the Registrar updated the party’s official records to reflect this leadership change.

July 16, 2026
Habitat for Humanity rallies action on Africa’s housing crisis

Calls to tackle Africa’s growing housing crisis dominated discussions at the Habitat for Humanity Kenya forum as the organisation launched its global “Let’s Open the Door” campaign.

The five-year initiative aims to mobilise governments, the private sector, and communities to prioritise adequate housing. It highlights housing’s crucial role in fostering health, economic opportunity, climate resilience, and sustainable development.

The campaign launches amidst a widening housing crisis across the region. An estimated 53 per cent of Sub-Saharan Africa’s urban population lives in informal settlements, and the housing deficit currently stands at approximately 56 million units.

Dr Eileen Mokaya, National Director for Habitat for Humanity Kenya, stated that the campaign seeks to accelerate collective action to bridge the housing gap and enhance access to decent and affordable housing.

Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti advocated for stronger collaboration between national and county governments, emphasising that such partnerships will be critical in delivering affordable housing to more Kenyans.

Beneficiaries of Habitat for Humanity Kenya programmes shared personal accounts of how access to decent housing has transformed their lives, illustrating the organisation’s impact over the past five decades.

For 50 years, Habitat for Humanity Kenya has implemented housing programmes nationwide, providing vulnerable families with safe and affordable housing solutions.

July 16, 2026
Morocco formalizes its participation in the International Stabilization Force in Gaza

Morocco has chosen to place itself at the center of international efforts for peace by becoming the first country to sign an agreement with the Peace Council governing its participation in the International Stabilization Force in Gaza (ISF).

Under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, the Chairman of the Al-Quds Committee, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccans Living Abroad, Nasser Bourita, and the Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in charge of the National Defense Administration, Abdellatif Loudiyi, received Nikolay Mladenov, the High Representative of the Peace Council in Gaza, on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the headquarters of the National Defense Administration in Rabat.

the High Representative was leading a high-level delegation composed of Council officials and the commander of the International Stabilization Force in Gaza. The meeting took place in the presence of the Lieutenant General, Inspector General of the Royal Armed Forces and Commander of the Southern Zone, as well as the Lieutenant General, Commander of the Royal Gendarmerie.

The discussions culminated in the signing of the agreement regarding the Kingdom’s participation in this international force. The text constitutes the legal framework covering the technical and operational aspects of Morocco’s commitment.

From a legal and institutional standpoint, Morocco’s action is firmly grounded in international law, as embodied by the “Peace Council.” This body derives its executive legitimacy directly from the implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803. This historic resolution, adopted by a large majority, marked a decisive turning point by legitimizing the transitional arrangements in the Gaza Strip through the adoption of the “Comprehensive Plan for Ending the Conflict.”

It granted the Council broad administrative and development powers on a transitional basis, covering the oversight of aid, disarmament, reconstruction, and the establishment of a sustainable political environment. In this regard, the Kingdom’s signature demonstrates its unequivocal commitment to international law.

Furthermore the Resolution 2803 provides a legal basis and a mandate for the “International Stabilization Force,” thereby ensuring Morocco’s military and police contribution to Gaza under the auspices of international law and UN mechanisms, which require the submission of semiannual reports to the Secretary-General and the Security Council.

This close link between the international legitimacy of Resolution 2803 and the political impetus of the Peace Council elevates the agreement signed in Rabat beyond mere bilateral coordination, making it a new model of multilateral intervention based on law and operational effectiveness.

Morocco’s contribution, which demonstrates its credibility on the international stage and the ability of Moroccan diplomacy-under royal leadership-to move from political support to concrete action, calls for the deployment of senior officers from the Royal Armed Forces within the joint command of the International Force, as well as the mobilization of senior personnel from the Royal Gendarmerie and the General Directorate of National Security. It also includes the establishment of a field hospital to serve the people of Gaza.

Morocco’s commitment is thus multifaceted. It combines military and security expertise with medical and humanitarian assistance. This integrated approach is based on a simple conviction: there can be no reconstruction without security, nor lasting stability without the protection of civilians, the restoration of public order, and effective access to healthcare.

This initiative does not represent a sudden shift in the Kingdom’s policy. It is part of a long-standing and consistent commitment to the Palestinian cause. Since the start of the war in Gaza, Morocco, acting on High Royal Instructions, has been among the first countries able to deliver humanitarian aid to the enclave by land.

This mobilization once again illustrated the uniqueness of Morocco’s approach: taking action on the ground, far removed from grandstanding and rhetoric devoid of concrete follow-through.

Through the Bayt Mal Al-Quds Acharif Agency, the Kingdom of Morocco is also carrying out social and humanitarian projects aimed at improving the living conditions of Palestinians in East Jerusalem and strengthening their resilience. Its commitment to the Peace Council is further complemented by a financial contribution, as well as military, security, medical, and humanitarian support.

It should be noted that the missions of the International Stabilization Force consist of securing the Gaza Strip and its population, creating the necessary conditions for the delivery of humanitarian aid and reconstruction, and contributing to the training of a police force tasked with restoring public order.

Morocco’s participation is part of this framework and responds to an absolute priority: saving lives, protecting the dignity of civilians, and enabling displaced persons to return to their homes safely.

This force is part of efforts to consolidate a lasting ceasefire, prevent a resumption of hostilities, and prepare for the post-war period. By participating in this effort, Morocco intends to help transform a fragile truce into a credible and sustainable stabilization process.

This involvement in no way alters the Kingdom’s consistent position on the political settlement of the conflict. Morocco remains firmly committed to the two-state solution, which it considers the only path to a just and lasting peace: an independent Palestinian state, with Al-Quds al-Sharif as its capital, including the Gaza Strip, living side by side with the State of Israel in security and peace.

The Kingdom’s membership in the Peace Council also reflects its appreciation for the initiatives led by U.S. President Donald Trump and the efforts made by all stakeholders who contributed to the development of the roadmap for peace. This appreciation, however, should not be interpreted as an abandonment or compromise of the fundamental principles upheld by Rabat.

Morocco’s commitment is rooted in its long experience in peacekeeping operations under the auspices of the United Nations. The Royal Moroccan Armed Forces and security services enjoy international recognition based on their professionalism, discipline, and ability to operate in sensitive and complex environments.

By becoming the first country to sign such an agreement with the Peace Council -just as it was the first to provide financial contributions to the Peace Council upon its creation- Morocco demonstrates that its international influence is rooted in trust, credibility, and the capacity for initiative. It chooses to be at the heart of the solution rather than on the periphery of the crisis.

July 16, 2026
Beer giant’s Tusker injects Sh 1.5 million into Prinsloo Sevens

Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) has injected Ksh 1.5 million into the Prinsloo Sevens through its flagship Tusker brand, giving Nakuru RFC a timely boost as they put the finishing touches on hosting the opening leg of the 2026 National Sevens Circuit.

The tournament, set for July 25-26 at the Nakuru Athletics Club, kicks off a six-leg season that will also take in Kisumu, Nairobi, Mombasa and Embu before culminating with the Christie Sevens in Nairobi in September.

Tusker’s contribution continues a partnership that dates back several seasons, with the brand having previously backed the Driftwood, Dala, Kabeberi and Embu legs of the circuit.

The sponsorship arrives on the back of a bumper season for Kenyan rugby’s premier club competition, which recently secured a headline SportPesa deal worth Ksh 34.14 million, more than double the previous year’s investment.

That package is expected to strengthen the circuit’s role as a key development pathway for players aspiring to represent Shujaa, the Kenya Lionesses and the national 15s side.

Nakuru RFC officials welcomed Tusker’s backing, noting that preparations for the tournament are in their final stages and that corporate support remains critical to running a smooth, well-organised event.

The beer giant, which serves as the circuit’s official alcoholic beverage and entertainment partner, has said its investment is aimed at enhancing the fan experience alongside the on-field action, including powering official afterparty festivities that have become a fixture of the Sevens Circuit calendar.

On the pitch, Nakuru will host a strong field expected to include Kabras Sugar, Strathmore Leos, Menengai Oilers and Kenya Harlequin, with Strathmore Leos looking to build on victories at both Prinsloo and Embu last season.

Age-grade action will also feature on the opening weekend, giving young talent a platform alongside the senior sides.

The tournament marks the start of a nine-week circuit that will crown its overall champions at the Christie Sevens in September

July 16, 2026
Lebanese firm to offer engineering consultancy for Ksh155B JKIA upgrade

The government has appointed Dar Al-Handasah Consultants to oversee the works on the Ksh 155 billion upgrade of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

This comes barely a month after awarding the contract for the JKIA Modernisation Project to China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) by the Ministry of Transport through the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development.

Dar Al-Handasah Consultants which has signed the Engineer-Consultant Contract is expected to undertake design review, project management, contract administration, and construction supervision for the proposed design, development, and modernisation of JKIA according to Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir.

“This marks the beginning of a critical implementation phase as we accelerate the delivery of a modern JKIA that will strengthen Kenya’s position as Africa’s premier aviation gateway and regional air cargo hub. Beyond enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency, this investment will boost trade, tourism, connectivity, and create new opportunities for economic growth and job creation,” said Chirchir via his official X handle.

Chirchir said the firm brigs expertise which will be instrumental in delivering a modern, efficient, safe, and sustainable airport that meets global standards.

The upgrade of the regional aviation hub will entail upgrade and expansion of existing terminal buildings, rehabilitation of existing airfield, construction of new greenfield terminal facilities and airfield infrastructure.

Other works include aircraft aprons, taxiways, utility works, access roads, aviation systems, operational support facilities and all associated infrastructure which will make the aerodrome competitive.

The project upon completion is expected to increase JKIA’s annually passenger capacity from 7.5 million currently to at least 22 million with the green field terminal alone handling 10 million passenger per year.

July 16, 2026
NWHSA, county government, investor join forces on lucerne farming project

The National Water Harvesting and Storage Authority (NWHSA), the Tana River County Government and Stella Mundi Properties Ltd have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly implement a climate-smart lucerne farming project in Tana River County.

The agreement outlines collaboration on water infrastructure development, irrigation and commercial fodder production, with the partners saying the project is intended to strengthen water resource management, support climate resilience and improve agricultural productivity.

Under the partnership, the three institutions will work to develop water infrastructure capable of supporting year-round irrigation and large-scale lucerne cultivation. The project will also incorporate environmental and social safeguards while seeking to attract private investment and create employment opportunities.

The partners said the initiative combines the technical expertise of the national government, support from the county government and private sector investment to advance sustainable water resource development and climate-smart agriculture.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, NWHSA Chief Executive Officer Eng. Julius Mugun said the partnership represents an important step in expanding water infrastructure to support agriculture and economic activities in the county.

“Investments in water infrastructure go beyond physical development by creating opportunities for communities to engage in agriculture and other income-generating activities,” he said.

Mugun added that the collaboration reflects the country’s broader efforts to accelerate socio-economic development.

“This collaboration is a step towards propelling Kenya towards the Singaporean dream of becoming a first world country,” Mugun said.

NWHSA Board Chairperson Dr. Jane Mwikali Makau said the partnership is expected to support agricultural production and create employment opportunities in Tana River County.

She expressed optimism that similar collaborations would strengthen investment in sustainable water resource development.

Tana River Governor Dhadho Godhana said the county government would work with NWHSA and Stella Mundi Properties to implement the project, noting that it has the potential to support commercial fodder farming, improve agricultural productivity and raise household incomes.

Father Allan Ndung’u, representing Stella Mundi Properties Ltd, said lucerne fodder continues to attract demand in export markets, particularly in the Middle East, adding that the project could create new market opportunities for farmers in the county.

The partners said the project is expected to demonstrate how collaboration between government agencies and the private sector can support sustainable water management, climate-resilient agriculture and rural economic development.

July 16, 2026
Ruto commits to greater government openness, cites initiatives to enhance public trust

President William Ruto has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to enhancing transparency, accountability, and public access to government information as Kenya embarks on consultations for its inaugural State of Openness Report.

Speaking at State House, Nairobi, while launching the consultations and preparation of the report, President Ruto stated that the initiative would establish a national benchmark for assessing transparency, institutional performance, and accountability across government while identifying areas requiring further reform.

The President emphasised that openness is crucial for restoring public confidence in government institutions.

“We are working towards entrenching openness across government by ensuring wide access to information in ministries, departments, and agencies,” he said.

“Our objective is to build and earn public trust while confronting the growing threat of fake news, misinformation, disinformation, and propaganda through transparency, accountability, and accessibility to accurate information,” President Ruto added.

He noted that digital transformation has become a primary tool for improving service delivery and strengthening accountability within his administration. The President highlighted that government services available through digital platforms have increased from approximately 350 in 2022 to over 26,000, making public services more accessible, efficient, and transparent.

President Ruto also drew attention to reforms in public financial management, stating that the government has introduced a Unified Government Digital Payment Platform. The initiative, he says, aims to reduce revenue leakages, curb opportunities for corruption, and improve accountability in the collection of public funds.

He further explained that electronic procurement has been rolled out to promote transparency, strengthen competition, and ensure the prudent use of public resources.

The President cited recent governance reforms, including legislation to introduce merit-based recruitment in government-owned enterprises, the enactment of the Conflict of Interest Act to strengthen ethical conduct among public officers, and governance safeguards within the National Infrastructure Fund designed to enhance institutional independence and accountability.

According to President Ruto, the State of Openness Report will provide an honest assessment of government performance by identifying areas of progress, highlight existing gaps, and recommend necessary reforms to strengthen public confidence in state institutions.

“I direct every ministry, department, agency, constitutional commission, and county government to extend their full cooperation to the Commission on Administrative Justice by providing timely, accurate, and comprehensive information throughout this exercise,” stated President Ruto.

The President announced that the report, expected to be launched later this year, will be the first of its kind globally and is intended to position Kenya as a leader in promoting openness, transparency, and accountable governance.

July 16, 2026
UDA’s Samuel Muchina confident of victory in Ol Kalou by-election

UDA candidate Samuel Muchina Nyagah has expressed confidence in winning the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election.

Speaking after casting his ballot at Huruma Primary School, Muchina said he is prepared to accept the outcome of Thursday’s poll.

He commended the voter turnout witnessed across the constituency, saying it is a testament to residents’ commitment to exercising their democratic right.

“I am ready for the outcome. I know I am winning, but I am prepared to accept whatever the people of Ol Kalou decide at the ballot. The will of the people is what we will follow,” he said.

Muchina urged eligible constituents who had not yet voted to turn out before the close of polling at 5:00 p.m.

“We have had three months to campaign and have done our best. The people of Ol Kalou have listened to us. I encourage residents of Ol Kalou Constituency to come out in large numbers and elect a Member of Parliament who will serve them for the next one year,” he said.

Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha, who spoke shortly after voting at Ol Kalou Comprehensive School, noted that the exercise had been peaceful and urged residents to remain calm after casting their ballots.

Badilisha appealed to residents to leave polling stations once voting closes at 5:00PM to allow election officials to tally the results without disruption.

The Ol Kalou by-election was occasioned by the death of area MP David Kiaraho in March this year.

The race has attracted several candidates, with Muchina facing competition from Sammy Kamau Ngotho of the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) and Jubilee Party’s Wilson Kigwa, among others.

July 16, 2026
CS Wandayi boosts Migori Youth FC with Ksh 2 million ahead of top-flight season

Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi has donated Ksh 2 million to Migori Youth FC as the newly promoted club prepares for its maiden season in the FKF Premier League.

The donation comes as Migori Youth FC ramps up preparations for the 2026/27 top-flight campaign, having secured automatic promotion after being crowned National Super League (NSL) champions in May. The club, based in Awendo, becomes the latest side to break into Kenya’s top tier alongside established names such as Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards.

Wandayi’s contribution follows a high-profile State House reception hosted by President William Ruto, during which the Head of State handed the club a 51-seater team bus and pledged a Ksh 10 million cash prize in recognition of their historic promotion. Club patron Mark Nyamita and chairman Aziz used the occasion to appeal for wider financial backing, citing the heavy costs of competing in the Premier League.

Migori Governor Ochilo Ayacko, who has been closely involved in the club’s rise, has previously highlighted the county’s sporting pedigree, noting that one of Kenya’s Olympic medalists hails from the region.

The club has already begun strengthening its technical setup for the step up in competition, re-appointing head coach Salim Babu to lead preparations for what is expected to be a demanding debut season.

With the financial demands of top-flight football weighing on newly promoted sides, Wandayi’s donation adds to a growing wave of political and corporate support for Migori Youth FC as it prepares to compete against Kenya’s traditional football powerhouses for the first time in the club’s history.

July 16, 2026