Ommy Dallah
Kenya To Further Deepen Relations With Egypt
Kenya and Egypt are working to increase their trade and investment partnership, as evidenced by recent high-level discussions and agreements.
These efforts aim to strengthen bilateral relations, boost trade volumes, and foster economic growth in both nations, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has said.
"Trade between Kenya and Egypt has been on an upward trajectory, with the total trade volume estimated at between 600 million and 700 million US Dollars in 2025. Notably, Egypt is Kenya’s second largest tea market in the world.” he added.
Mudavadi said the signing of a joint declaration for a strategic and comprehensive partnership between Presidents William Ruto and Abdel Fattah El-Sisi early this year was a major milestone in further deepening the collaboration between the two nations.
“The State Visit by President Ruto to Egypt in January 2025 was historic, marking the first State Visit by a Kenyan President to Egypt. Our two Heads of State made a commitment when they jointly witnessed the signing of 12 Memoranda of Understanding in various fields.” noted the Prime CS.
Mudavadi was speaking when he graced the national day celebrations of the Arab Republic of Egypt at the residence of the Egyptian Ambassador to Kenya in Nairobi, a celebration that marked the 105th anniversary of Egypt’s independence.
While congratulating President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and the People of the Arab Republic of Egypt on behalf of President William Ruto, Mudavadi said Egypt’s triumph over colonialism serves as a powerful reminder that the struggle for freedom, though difficult, is necessary and achievable.
He noted that the 62 years of flourishing diplomatic relations between Kenya and Egypt have continuously enriched the citizen-to-citizen relations while cementing the cordial and longstanding partnerships between the two nations.
"Our mission in Cairo is Kenya’s second diplomatic post to be established abroad. This milestone reflects the depth of our historical, cultural, and economic bonds, as well as our shared commitment to cooperation and mutual prosperity.” he said.
"Kenya is home to several Egyptian businesses, while Egypt hosts a vibrant Kenyan diaspora community, comprising professionals, students, businesspeople and skilled workers” added Mudavadi.
"Our imports from Kenya amounts to almost 14% of the total exports of Kenyan tea. On the Investment side a number of new Egyptian investments are flocking Kenya. With 76 Egyptian companies now registered with Kenya Invest.” said Attiya, the Egyptian Ambassador toe Kenya.
Mudavadi also the Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Cabinet Secretary, pointed out Egypt as Kenya’s strategic partner in the region notably in the cooperation within the fields of Education, research & Technical Training, Health, Agriculture & Food Security, Tourism & Culture, and people-to-people exchanges among others.
According to the Prime CS, Kenya is working towards actualizing the 12 memoranda signed in January 2025 which span across political consultations, Diplomatic Training & Capacity Building in Foreign Service and Investment Cooperation.
Other memoranda are Gender Equality, Maritime Partnerships between the Lamu Port Authority and the Alexandria Port Authority, Red Sea Port Authority and Kenya Ports Authority.
Youth Empowerment, Higher Education and Scientific Research, Telecommunication and IT, Space Cooperation, Governance and Sustainable Development, and Housing, Construction and Urban Development are the other agreements aimed at unlocking immense opportunities for the two nations and their citizens.
"Kenya and Egypt’s active participation in regional frameworks such as Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) reflect our commitment to advancing economic integration and boosting intra-African trade in alignment with the African Union’s Agenda 2063.” said Mudavadi.
"The Commercial International Bank, CIB is Egypt’s largest private bank and it now operates seven branches in Kenya under its own branch name CIB-Kenya, reflecting the political will to intensify and further deepen economic and commercial ties with Kenya and the commitment to support Kenya’s development plans.” noted Attiya.
In his remarks, Mudavadi also acknowledged that Kenya and Egypt remain steadfast in supporting multilateral efforts to promote peace and stability in conflict-affected regions such as Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, Libya, and the Sahel.
He said this is achievable through active participation in the African Union led missions, and in close collaboration with the United Nations in championing for African-led solutions to African challenges.
The celebrations were also used to bid farewell to Amb. Wael Nasreldin Attiya, the outgoing Egyptian Ambassador to Kenya who is concluding his tour of duty.
Mudavadi conveyed his sincere appreciation to the outgoing Ambassador lauding him as a friend to Kenya whom during his tenure he played a pivotal role in deepening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Kenya and Egypt.
"Under Ambassador Attiya’s stewardship, we witnessed the successful State Visit of His Excellency President William Ruto to Egypt in January 2025. He also oversaw the convening of the 7th Session of the Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) in Nairobi in March 2024.” Mudavadi remarked.
He said Amb. Attiya distinguished himself as a dedicated champion of economic diplomacy and further under his leadership, business engagements between Kenya and Egypt grew significantly, as exemplified by the successful Kenya–Egypt Business Forum held alongside the Joint Commission for Cooperation in March 2024.
All Roads Lead To Mombasa For Driftwood 7s
The highly anticipated 2025 National Sevens Circuit is set to ignite this weekend, with all roads leading to the coastal city of Mombasa for the opening leg, the Driftwood 7s.
Known for its vibrant atmosphere and thrilling rugby action, the tournament promises a spectacular start to the season at the Mombasa Sports Club. The Driftwood 7s will commence with age-grade rugby on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 8:30 AM on Pitch B of the Mombasa Sports Club.
A total of 26 teams are registered across various categories, showcasing the future stars of Kenyan rugby. The age-grade tournament will feature:
• U18 Boys & Girls
• U15 Boys & Girls
• U13 Mixed Category
The main event, the Division One tournament, will see defending champions Kenya Harlequins headline Pool A, where they will face off against MMUST, KU Blak Blad, and Mwamba RFC.
Pool B features rugby powerhouse Kabras Sugar RFC alongside Catholic Monks, Nakuru RFC, and Impala RFC. Last year’s runners-up, KCB RFC, anchor Pool C, competing against Nondescripts RFC, Daystar Falcons, and the host team, MSC Rugby. Pool D promises fierce competition with Nakuru-based Menengai Oilers, Strathmore Leos, Stallions Rugby, and Kabarak University all vying for knockout spots.
In Division Two, 36 teams applied for participation, with final allocations based on a specific set of criteria ensuring broad representation.
This included 6 slots for Kenya Rugby Union affiliate clubs, 7 for coastal region-based teams, 4 awarded on performance, and 3 based on previous tournament rankings.
The Division Two pools are:
• Pool A: AP Warriors, Kilifi Titans, Likoni, University of Nairobi Mean Machine
• Pool B: Embu RFC, Kaya Rugby, North Coast Stormers, MKU Thika
• Pool C: Homeboyz RFC, Jackals, NYS Eagles, Makueni RFC • Pool D: Kisumu RFC, KCNP, NYS Spades, Sigalagala NP
• Pool E: South Coast Pirates, Vihiga Granites, Zetech Oaks, Northern Suburbs
A Powerful Reawakening Of A Kenyan Classic : Kifo Kisimani Takes The Stage This August
Hive of Theatre, also known as Hive of the Arts, has set up its latest latest production, a bold and timely revival of Kifo Kisimani (Death in the Well), the acclaimed Swahili play by celebrated Kenyan writer and academic, Prof. Kithaka wa Mberia.
Audiences will get the chance to experience this performance scheduled for the weekend of 2nd & 3rd August 2025, from 2 - 6 PM on both days at C.U. Shah Jain Bhavan (Chandaria Jain Social Group Auditorium) in Loresho, Nairobi.
Set in the fictional community of Butangi, Kifo Kisimani follows Mwelusi, a fearless citizen who dares to resist the brutal dictatorship of Mtemi Bokono.
Through sharp dialogue, rich symbolism and vivid characters, the play explores oppression, betrayal, nationalism and the human cost of liberation. As Mwelusi fights for freedom, the story becomes a powerful mirror of resistance, justice and sacrifice.
This compelling revival is helmed by Martin Kigondu, an award-winning Kenyan theatre and filmmaker whose directorial vision is known for pushing creative boundaries. Kigondu recently won Best Director and Best Producer at the 2024 Kenya Theatre Awards, having previously clinched Best Playwright and Best Actor in a Solo Production.
A powerful ensemble of Kenya’s finest rising and established talent will bring emotional depth and authenticity to this reimagined classic. Leading the cast is Gadwill Odhiambo as Mwelusi, the play’s fierce protagonist.
Gadwill is a Kalasha Award-winning actor, director and film lecturer celebrated for his versatility; he also served as Assistant Director in The Trial of Dedan Kimathi (2025). Ben Tekee commands the role of Mtemi Bokono, the story’s authoritarian antagonist.
Tekee brings a wealth of experience from TV, film and stage, known for his charismatic and intelligent portrayals. Cosmas Kirui plays Gege, infusing the role with dynamic stage presence honed across theatre, television and live event platforms. Gaitan Brian steps into the role of Zigu, bringing a strong background in set book theatre and public performances from the Kenya National Theatre stage. The cast also features Alison Kariuki (Nyalwe), Afrikan Nduta (Kaloo), Ernest Onyango (Askari III), Samson Omondi (Mweke), Pollyanna Njeri (Azena), Sanchez Ombasa (Askari I), Wanjiku Waweru (Tanya), Muringo Mware (Mgezi), Fiona Thaithi, Fredrick Mito and Ted Munene.
This year, Hive is raising the bar and Kifo Kisimani is leading the charge. Far from a tired set book retelling, this revival brings fresh direction, bold staging and emotional depth to a timeless story.
Layered, resonant, and unapologetically current, Hive’s take on Kifo Kisimani as a dynamic reimagination, set to challenge, connect and captivate. With this production, Hive continues to redefine the landscape of Kenyan performance art.
Wanjiru Njoroge and Shiko Ngure (producers of the show) sum up, “Hive is really about creating work that connects and makes people laugh, feel, reflect—maybe even heal a bit. We're not trying to be perfect, we're trying to be present, bold and honest.
Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ Series Officially Launches in Kenya
Infinix today unveiled its latest HOT 60 PRO+ Series lineup that redefines slim smartphone design, including the HOT 60 Pro+, HOT 60 Pro, and HOT 60i.
Leading the series, the Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ comes with a groundbreaking 5.95mm ultra-slim body, setting a new global benchmark as the world’s slimmest 3D-curved screen phone.
The HOT 60 Pro+ goes beyond ultra-slim aesthetics, delivering comprehensive upgrades in functionality, performance, thermal efficiency, and durability.
As the latest achievement of Infinix’s continuous innovation, the HOT Series represents a next-generation tech-fashion icon designed to meet the needs of young consumers worldwide.
World’s Slimmest 3D-Curved Screen Phone: HOT 60 Pro+ Breaks New Boundaries in Slim Design
Slim as just 5.95mm, the HOT 60 Pro+ redefines global standards for 3D-curved screen smartphones. Infinix’s proprietary ultra-slim engineering overcomes conventional structural and battery limitations.
Compared to the previous generation, thickness is reduced by 12.5% and weight by 4.3%, while integrating a higher-capacity fast-charging battery—all within a lightweight 155g body.
A distributed flat TitanGrid Architecture maximizes internal space, supported by precision structural engineering. Ten critical components, including the SIM tray, speakers, and Type-C port, are custom-engineered to maintain full functionality without compromising slimness.
The battery cover adopts one of the industry’s first ultra-thin NanoFiber Backshield, enhanced by Infinix’s pioneering OMR (Out-Mold Decoration) process.
This multi-layer structure reduces thickness by 20% versus conventional solutions while providing superior hardness and flex resistance.
Durability is further strengthened by an Aerospace-Grade Aluminium mid-frame with reinforced structural corners.
The 3D-curved display is protected by ultra-thin Corning® Gorilla® Glass 7i, offering improved scratch resistance and drop protection.
These innovations deliver 1.4 times better bend resistance than the previous generation.
The HOT 60 Pro+ has successfully passed Infinix’s most rigorous 1.5-meter directional drop tests, achieving an unprecedented balance of slimness, strength, and reliability.
Colour-Pop Design with Refined Attention to Detail
Rooted in self-expression, the HOT 60 Pro+ Series introduces over 10 dynamic colour options inspired by nature’s vibrant tones. The hero colour, Coral Tides, features a striking red-blue gradient, evoking the iconic contrast of Komodo Island’s blue waves against pink shores.
The Scent Weave Leather Special Edition features four variants blending premium textures with infused fragrance, offering a surprising, multisensory experience for style-focused young users.
Building on the HOT Series' signature sugar-cube inspired camera design, the HOT 60 Pro+ introduces a floating camera module that visually separates from the back panel, creating a refined, three-dimensional effect. Seamlessly integrated Active Halo Lighting adds minimalist, futuristic flair.
The HOT 60 Pro and further elevate design precision with metallic accent rings and bold contrasting trims, reflecting the vibrant One-Tap AI buttons for a cohesive visual experience.
Infinix's attention to detail extends to the device’s overall form. The HOT 60 Pro+ Series adopts smooth R-curved corner design precisely matched to the camera arc, creating a more harmonious silhouette and enhanced in-hand comfort. These refinements reimagine the HOT design DNA with bold aesthetics and youthful vitality.
5160mAh High-Capacity Battery with 45W FastCharge
The HOT 60 Series introduces a next-generation 5160mAh ultra-thin, high-capacity battery using advanced non-silicon doping technology. With a record energy density of 810Wh/L, battery capacity increases by 1.08 times compared to previous models while maintaining an ultra-thin profile.
Battery lifespan extends by 20%, retaining over 80% health after 1800 charging cycles to ensure reliable daily use for years to come. All three models support 45W super-fast charging. The HOT 60 Pro+ charges from 1% to 50% in 23 minutes under Hyper Mode and achieves a full charge in 55 minutes, representing a 12.7% speed improvement over the previous generation.
Intelligent power management optimizes energy consumption for social media, video streaming, and gaming. Brightness adjustments alone save approximately 50mAh per hour, which can extend usage by up to 15 minutes on TikTok, or 15 minutes of Free Fire gaming, or up to 40 minutes of messaging, depending on the activity.
Hardware and software integration delivers exceptional all-around performance, overcoming typical trade-offs between slimness and battery life.
Slim Yet Powerful: Comprehensive Performance Upgrades
Despite its ultra-slim profile, the HOT 60 Pro+ delivers significant upgrades in imaging, performance, and thermal management.
The rear camera features a 50MP SONY IMX882 ultra-sensitive sensor, delivering exceptional clarity and significantly improved low-light performance. Infinix’s latest AI RAW image processing enhances detail, color accuracy, and night photography. Full-pixel autofocus and 2X lossless zoom provide professional-grade shooting versatility.
The Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ and HOT 60 Pro are the first to debut the MediaTek Helio G200 chipset, combining MediaTek’s advanced technology with exclusive Infinix optimizations to ensure high-speed, smooth, and long-lasting performance.
HOT 60 Pro+ also features Infinix’s most advanced cooling system to date, with 11 layers of thermal materials and a further 220mm² increase in industry-leading ultra-conductive crystal graphite.
This powerful design improves heat dissipation by 8% and reduces chipset temperatures by up to 5°C, making HOT 60 Pro+ not only the thinnest in the HOT Series but also the most capable in thermal performance.
The device features ultra-slim 0.88mm bottom bezels for immersive visuals. The AMOLED display supports a 144Hz refresh rate, 1.5K physical resolution, in-display fingerprint unlock, and peak brightness of 4500 nits for clarity even under direct sunlight.
AI Eye Comfort includes both Gaming Eye Comfort to reduce eye strain during gameplay and Sleep Aid Mode to ease visual fatigue in daily use, helping provide a more comfortable and healthier viewing experience throughout the day.
Smarter AI Designed for Young Users, with Refreshed XOS System
All HOT 60 Series models feature Folax—Infinix’s intelligent cross-app AI assistant—accessible via a dedicated AI key for smart, seamless interactions.
Exclusive AI features include AI Vogue Portraits for the HOT 60 Pro+, HOT 60 Pro, combining user photos with dynamic visual effects across lock screens and always-on displays. AI Image Extender and upgraded AI Eraser tools offer high-quality, effortless editing.
The latest XOS 15.1.1 system delivers a refreshed user interface, including updated icons, wallpapers, and always-on displays designed for youthful, trend-conscious users.
System-wide optimizations enhance interaction fluidity and long-term device performance. The HOT 60 Pro+, HOT 60 Pro are certified by TÜV SÜD for 60 months of sustained fluency.
Effortless NFC Touch Transfer with Ultra Link Free Call: Expanding Everyday Possibilities
The HOT 60 Series supports effortless file transfers via NFC, enabling seamless cross-device collaboration. With NFC Touch Transfer, users can instantly share content with a simple tap, significantly enhancing the speed and convenience of data sharing between compatible devices.
The HOT 60 Pro+ introduces Ultra Link Free Call, allowing two-way calling and messaging over Bluetooth at distances of up to 1.5km in open environments. Ideal for outdoor adventures, fieldwork, or emergencies, it ensures reliable communication even without conventional network coverage.
All models in the HOT 60 Pro+ Series are rated IP64 for dust and water resistance, while the HOT 60 Pro+ achieves an enhanced IP65 rating for superior protection.
The HOT 60 Pro+ also features JBL-certified dual stereo speakers, delivering rich, immersive audio with precise tuning across bass, mid, and treble frequencies for an exceptional listening experience.
Pricing and Availability
The Infinix HOT 60 Pro+ Series pre-order offer is available from 21st to 31st July, requiring a Ksh 3,000 deposit and including a free Infinix XWATCH N4 Pro valued at Ksh 5,500. The series includes two models: the HOT 60 Pro+, offered in multiple colours with 8+256GB and 8+128GB configurations, and the HOT 60 Pro, available in various colours with an 8+128GB option.
Through relentless technical breakthroughs, the HOT 60 Pro+ achieves the perfect balance of ultra-slim design, powerful functionality, and elevated aesthetics—once again reflecting Infinix’s solid foundation of technological strength and its brand vision of bold, cutting-edge innovation.
Media Stakeholders Back New Code Of Conduct For Journalists
Key stakeholders in the media industry have expressed strong support for new regulations aimed at aligning Kenya’s journalism standards with evolving global trends and digital challenges.
Appearing before the National Assembly’s Committee on Delegated Legislation, officials from the Kenya Editors Guild (KEG) and the Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ) backed the proposed Code of Conduct for Media Practice, 2025.
At the session chaired by Vice Chairperson Hon. Robert Gichimu (Gichugu), KEG President Ms. Zubeida Kananu and KUJ Secretary General Mr. Erick Oduor confirmed that they were actively involved in developing the new code.
“We respectfully submit that the Code of Conduct for Media Practice, 2025 represents a significant and necessary advancement for the Kenyan media sector,” said Ms. Kananu, who presented a joint memorandum to the committee.
The memorandum was also endorsed by other media organizations, including the Media Owners Association, Digital Broadcasters Association, Kenya Parliamentary Journalists Association, and the Association of Media Women in Kenya.
“We therefore strongly urge the committee to ratify the Code as gazetted. Timely ratification will support its swift implementation, which is crucial for ethical journalism and robust, public interest reporting in Kenya,” Ms. Kananu added.
Two weeks ago, Information, Communications and the Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo appeared before the same committee to explain the proposed regulations.
He was accompanied by the Principal Secretary for Telecommunications and Broadcasting, Mr. Stephen Isaboke, and the CEO of the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), Mr. David Omwoyo.
The new Code introduces stricter measures for media practice, including penalties for misuse of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the dissemination of misleading AI-generated content.
It also mandates a clear separation between betting content and news reporting and introduces sanctions for misleading headlines that do not reflect the actual content of a story.
One of the key proposals is a mandatory seven-second delay in live broadcasts to prevent airing of inappropriate content.
While MPs welcomed the move to modernize media regulation, they raised concerns about possible threats to press freedom, especially provisions on live coverage.
Committee Chairperson Samuel Chepkong’a (Ainabkoi) warned that some clauses might unfairly target individual journalists while exempting media owners from accountability.
In response, CS Kabogo assured the committee that the Code is a product of broad stakeholder consultation and is consistent with the Media Council Act.
“In May 2025, I enacted Legal Notice No. 88, replacing the Second Schedule to the Media Council Act with this revised Code. It aligns Kenya with international standards on digital media, ethical journalism, and child protection,” he said.
PS Isaboke emphasized that public participation was conducted nationwide, led by MCK, and included feedback from journalists, media houses, and the general public.
MCK CEO Mr. Omwoyo confirmed that journalist unions and media associations were actively consulted and their views incorporated.
Following concerns raised during the earlier appearance by the CS, the committee had resolved to invite key media stakeholders to verify if they supported the regulations.
At today’s session, the committee confirmed that all major stakeholders were consulted and support the Code.
"As media practitioners, you are the most affected by these regulations. If you confirm that you were fully involved in the public participation process and support the Code, then we have no objections," observed Hon. Gichimu.
Earlier, Fikirini Jacobs, the Principal Secretary incharge of the State Department for Youth Affairs and Creative Economy appeared before the House Team.The PS who was accompanied by officials from the State department briefed the Committee on the draft Films and Stage Plays (Film Classification) Guidelines, 2024.
Among others, the proposed guidelines seek to protect children and vulnerable members of the society from inappropriate and indecent content and provide viewers with guidance on nature of film content prior to viewing.
Senator Faki Calls For Snake Protection On World's Snake Day
Mombasa Senator Mohammed Faki delivered a compelling statement to Kenya's Senate on World Snake Day, advocating for a fundamental shift in how Kenyans view these often-misunderstood reptiles.
"World Snake Day is celebrated every year on the 16th of July. It is a moment to reflect on the critical yet often misunderstood role that snakes play in maintaining ecological balance across various landscapes," Senator Faki told the Senate.
The Senator emphasized that fear and misinformation drive unnecessary snake killings.
"Due to widespread fear, harmful myths, and habitat destruction, snakes are often killed immediately upon sight. These fears are mainly caused by misinformation," he stated.
Highlighting conservation challenges, Faki noted: "We must seek to change negative perceptions about snakes, especially within our communities, and foster respect for all wildlife, not just the well-known or attractive species."
He also raised concerns about public health infrastructure, stating: "Many people lose their lives due to the lack of anti-snake venom in health facilities across the country. The Government should ensure that all health facilities are properly stocked with anti-snake venom."
The Senator concluded with an appeal: "Let us teach the next generation to respect rather than fear, and to protect rather than destroy our environment."
KURA To Close Links Road For Six Months
The Kenya Urban Roads Authority has announced a six-month closure of the Links Road in Nyali.
In a notice on Tuesday, July 22, KURA said the road will be closed from August 1, 2025, to January 30, 2026.
According to the notice, the closure is to allow construction works along the road, aimed at providing a lasting solution to the persistent flooding and drainage challenges affecting the route
The Authority also advised motorists to exercise caution when approaching the affected area.
“Kenya Urban Roads Authority seeks to inform the general public of a road closure along Links Road–Nyali in Mombasa County from 6:00 AM on Friday, 1st August 2025, to 6:00 PM on Friday, 30th January 2026 (6 Months)." reads the notice.
Adding "“This road closure is necessary to facilitate the construction works with the aim of providing a lasting solution to the regular flooding and drainage challenges that usually affect this section of the road,” read the notice in part."
The authority also said police officers and traffic marshals would be deployed at the site to facilitate smooth traffic flow.
Last week, Mombasa Senator Mohammed Faki raised a concern in the senate concerning the poor state of the road calling for urgent action.
"This road especially near the Quickmart supermarket has become a huge concern to residents and other road users. Something needs to be done urgently, we cannot be complaining about the same issue everyday" said Senator Faki.
Judiciary Affirms Its Commitment To Electoral Justice
The Judiciary has affirmed its preparedness and commitment to its constitutional mandate of adjudicating electoral disputes fairly and efficiently.
Speaking in Nairobi during the launch of the Judiciary Committee on Elections Operational Plan 2025 - 2028, Chief Justice Martha Koome said the Judiciary is ready to handle the 2027 Electoral Dispute Resolution (EDR) cycle with fairness, efficiency, independence, and integrity.
She said the Judiciary leadership will fully support the Judiciary Committee on Elections (JCE) as it guides the Judiciary towards attainment of the goal of having an effective EDR process during the 2027 cycle.
The CJ urged stakeholders and Kenyans, to join hands with the Judiciary, to safeguard the country’s constitutional democracy to ensure a just, peaceful, and democratic country.
She explained that electoral justice is a shared responsibility, and it is only through sustained collaboration that there can be a peaceful electoral process that upholds the constitutional vision of free, fair, and transparent electoral process; and foster the consolidation of our democracy.
“I also call upon all our partners — the Law Society of Kenya, the IEBC, other electoral stakeholders, and our development partners — to continue walking this journey with us.”
CJ Koome commended the JCE’s resolve to confront systemic challenges — including the need for timely electoral law reform, continuous capacity building for judges and judicial officers, and foster stronger synergies with other stakeholders in the electoral process.
“Particularly commendable is the proactive approach towards public engagement, aimed at countering disinformation and building public trust in the Judiciary’s handling of electoral disputes.”
Reiterating that the Judiciary is committed to strengthening the architecture of electoral justice in Kenya, the Chief Justice said the Judiciary Committee on Elections Operational Plan serves not only as a roadmap for preparations towards the 2027 General Elections but also as a blueprint for how the Judiciary will continue to defend the integrity of the electoral process, and foster public confidence in judicial adjudication of electoral disputes.
On the change of leadership from outgoing JCE chair, Supreme Court Judge Mohammed Ibrahim to incoming chairperson Supreme Court Judge Njoki Ndungu, the CJ noted that the moment marks both continuity and renewal in the Judiciary’s pivotal role in safeguarding Kenya’s democracy as it discharges its electoral disputes resolution mandate.
"It also marks the official commencement of the Judiciary’s preparations for the 2027 Electoral Dispute Resolution (EDR) cycle.”
Justice Ibrahim who also spoke at the function noted that the Operational Plan provides a clear roadmap to guide the Committee’s priorities and programmes as the Judiciary prepares for the next electoral cycle adding that it was crafted to guide the Committee's work with clarity and purpose as it supports the Judiciary’s mandate in EDR.
The incoming JCE Chair Lady Justice Njoki Ndungu asked Parliament to implement any legislative changes well ahead of the General Elections. “Changes to the law are critical and negatively impact the Judiciary’s preparedness for elections when they are done too late near elections,” said Judge Njoki.
Speaking at the same event, Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya said the Judiciary has embraced its constitutional duty not just as an arbiter of disputes, but as a key guarantor of electoral credibility.
She added that the Plan outlines the Judiciary’s roadmap for strengthening electoral dispute resolution, building internal capacity, fostering inter-agency coordination, and deepening public trust in our processes.
"It reflects a judiciary that is not reactive, but anticipatory one that is deliberately planning, innovating, and investing in institutional excellence,”
Catherine Kenga Electes As The New Kilifi Assembly Speaker
Catherine Kenga has been elected as the new Kilifi County Assembly Speaker.
Kenga was declared the Speaker after securing 41 out of 47 votes from members of the county assembly.
Kenga, the first Woman to be elected as a speaker fom the Coast region, takes over from Teddy Mwambire who was impeached early this month.
Mwambire was imprached for alleged gross misconduct, sabotage, incompetence and abuse of office.
40 MCAs supported the impeachment motion. 10 MCAs 10 voted against the motion to impeach Mwambire.
"Congratulations to Hon. Catherine Kenga on your election as Speaker of the Kilifi County Assembly.As the first woman elected to this position, Hon. Kenga sets a powerful example and opens the door for more women to lead" posted Kilifi Governor Gedion Mung'aro.
Senator Hamida Decries The Systematic Cases Of Sexual Abuse In Girls' Boarding Schools
Nominated Senator Hamida Kibwana has condemned the increasing cases of systemic sexual abuse and misconduct by teachers in girls’ boarding schools across the country.
The legislator raised the issue following the shocking revelations by the Africa Uncensored Deep Dive newsletter, accusing Mr. Peter Ayiro, a teacher at Alliance Girls High School, of alleged sexual abuse and misconduct against minors.
More than two dozen brave young women and girls came forward to share their harrowing survivor experiences of alleged sexual abuse stretching back over 20 years at the hands of the school’s former Christian Union patron.
While making a personal Statement on the floor of the House on Thursday, 17th July, Senator Hamida termed the exposé deeply troubling, bearing in mind that the alleged pattern of grooming, emotional manipulation, and inappropriate conduct by Mr Ayiro spanned for more than two decades.
The Chairperson of the Kenya Women Senators Association wondered how all the abuse could have happened under the watch of the school’s administration, despite multiple principals having served at the institution over this period and despite consistent rumours, concerns, and warnings.
She blamed institutional failures for allowing Mr. Ayiro’s behaviour to go unchecked, since former school administrators, teachers, and even chaplains reportedly raised red flags, yet no meaningful disciplinary action or formal investigation was ever initiated.
"The Teachers Service Commission (TSC), which is mandated to uphold professional conduct and discipline in our schools, appears to have either failed to act or turned a blind eye.
Girls' boarding schools are meant to be safe spaces for learning and character formation. Yet, this case reveals a pattern of grooming and predatory behaviour that appears to have been institutionally tolerated or overlooked-raising the question of how many similar cases exist across our schools but remain hidden beneath silence, shame, or fear,” Senator Hamida wondered.
She submitted that there may be widespread failures in enforcing ethical boundaries between teachers and students in learning institutions across the country and asked the Teachers' Service Commission to urgently review its internal safeguards, reporting structures, and whistle-blower protections about misconduct in schools.
“The culture of silence, protectionism, and spiritual manipulation in school-based religious spaces must be examined to ensure students' safety and dignity are upheld.
The bravery of the survivors who came forward to tell their stories cannot go unnoticed. We owe it to them – and to every child in our schools – to ensure that systems of accountability are not just on paper, but actively working,” said Senator Hamida Kibwana.

