A new chapter in recognising excellence within the media and communication industry has begun following the launch of the Mombasa Media and Communication Awards, an initiative spearheaded by the Mombasa Press Club in partnership with Gilitics Media.

The awards programme was officially unveiled during a colourful ceremony held last Thursday at the Sapphire Hotel in Mombasa, bringing together media practitioners, government leaders, corporate partners and stakeholders from across the communication sector.

Scheduled to culminate in a gala ceremony in November, the awards will honour journalists, editors, photographers, broadcasters, digital content creators and communication practitioners whose work has amplified local issues, promoted public dialogue and contributed to the development of society.

Speaking during the launch, Mombasa Press Club Chairman Omar Abdallah (Ommy Dallah) described the initiative as a milestone for the industry, saying it seeks to celebrate professionals who continue to uphold the values of credible, ethical and impactful communication.

"Today marks more than the unveiling of an awards programme. It marks the beginning of a movement to celebrate excellence, professionalism, innovation and ethical practice within the media and communication industry,” Omar said.

He noted that the awards will not only recognise outstanding achievements but also inspire higher professional standards, encourage innovation and motivate upcoming media practitioners to pursue excellence in their work.

“Our industry plays a critical role in informing the public, shaping opinions and strengthening democracy. Through these awards, we want to celebrate those whose commitment and integrity continue to make a difference in our communities,” he added.

The launch attracted several dignitaries led by Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, alongside Deputy Government Spokesperson Mwanaisha Chidzuga, who both praised the initiative as timely and necessary in strengthening professionalism within Kenya’s media and communication landscape.

The leaders commended the organisers for creating a platform that appreciates the individuals behind newsrooms, communication offices and digital platforms, saying recognition motivates excellence and inspires responsible storytelling.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir lauded the initiative, saying recognising media and communication professionals is key to strengthening democracy and promoting responsible journalism.

“A vibrant and professional media is an indispensable partner in development. Journalists and communication practitioners keep citizens informed, hold leaders accountable and amplify the voices of our communities. These awards are a timely initiative that will inspire excellence and reinforce ethical practice across the industry,” the Governor said.

Deputy Government Spokesperson Mwanaisha Chidzuga also welcomed the awards, describing them as a long-overdue platform to honour the individuals whose work often shapes public understanding but rarely receives public recognition.

"Behind every impactful story, successful public campaign and informed citizen is a dedicated communication professional. It is only fitting that we celebrate these individuals for their commitment, creativity and service. I commend the Mombasa Press Club and Gilitics Media for establishing an initiative that will motivate practitioners to continue raising professional standards,” Chidzuga said.

The two leaders reaffirmed their support for initiatives that promote ethical journalism, professional growth and collaboration between the media, government and other stakeholders in advancing informed public discourse.

Other leaders who attended the launch include Jomvu Mp Badi Twalib, Mohammed Machele (Mvita) and KenyaNational Chambers of Commerce and Industry Mombasa Chapter Chairman Abud Jamal among others.

Gilitics Media Founder and co-founder of the awards, Gilbert Were, said the programme was born from the need to shine a spotlight on the professionals whose dedication often goes unnoticed.

"Too often, we celebrate organisations and institutions while forgetting the professionals whose dedication makes effective communication possible. Today, we begin changing that,” Were said.

He added that the awards are designed to foster healthy competition, encourage creativity and reward impactful storytelling and strategic communication that positively influences communities.

The organisers also announced that the awards will feature multiple categories covering journalism, photography, broadcasting, public relations, corporate communications, digital media and other areas of professional communication, ensuring that excellence across the industry is recognised.

The Sapphire Hotel, one of the official partners of the initiative, hosted the launch as organisers reaffirmed their commitment to building a credible, transparent and prestigious awards programme that will become an annual highlight in the Coast region and beyond.

With preparations now underway ahead of the November gala, the Mombasa Media and Communication Awards are expected to provide a platform that celebrates talent, promotes ethical journalism, encourages innovation and reinforces the vital role that media and communication professionals play in informing the public and driving positive social change.

Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Nassir has condemned the recent spate of goonism witnessed in parts of the country, warning political leaders against exploiting young people to advance narrow political interests and destabilize communities.

Speaking at Tononoka Grounds during the issuance of licensing documents to 1,300 boda boda operators, Nassir said Kenya’s youth must be treated as partners in development and not as tools for political violence, intimidation and disorder.

The Governor challenged leaders across the political divide to engage young people constructively by creating opportunities for employment, enterprise, skills development and meaningful participation in governance.

“Our young people do not need politicians who give them a few coins to cause chaos. They need leaders who will create opportunities, invest in their skills, support their businesses and give them a genuine stake in the future of this country,” Nassir said.

He pointed to his administration’s partnership with the boda boda sector as an example of constructive engagement with young people, citing the incorporation of operators into the County Public Service, regular provision of protective equipment, support to SACCOs through the provision of motorcycles and the ongoing mass licensing programme.

Nassir said the issuance of licensing documents to 1,300 operators demonstrated that governments can address challenges affecting young people through structured partnerships rather than criminalization or political exploitation.

The Governor further urged Kenyans to reject leaders who thrive on division, violence and empty rhetoric, and instead assess those seeking public office based on their record of service delivery and the opportunities they have created for citizens.

“Leadership must give young people hope, dignity and a pathway to improve their lives. The answer to the challenges facing our youth is not to mobilize them for violence, but to empower them to become entrepreneurs, professionals, skilled workers and responsible citizens,” he said.

Nassir reaffirmed his commitment to being held accountable for the promises made in his manifesto, insisting that the future of Kenya’s politics must be defined by development, constructive engagement and measurable results rather than propaganda and violence.

Christian religious leaders in Malindi, Kilifi County, have strongly condemned the recently held Summertide youth concert, describing it as immoral and contrary to African cultural and religious values.

Led by JCC Church Bishop Thomas Kakala, the clergy accused organizers of allowing indecent behavior during the three-day event held at Lost Beach in Malindi, claiming that some attendees were seen walking naked and engaging in acts they described as offensive to public morality.

Addressing the media, Bishop Kakala said church leaders would not allow a similar event to be held in Malindi again.

"This is totally unacceptable, and we are not going to allow this kind of madness again in Malindi. Let this message reach our security agencies and the government. Those organizers should take this madness somewhere else. We cannot allow activities that are misleading our youth and children. It is even against our culture," said Bishop Kakala.

The bishop urged security agencies and relevant government authorities to take action against organizers of events that, according to the clergy, promote immorality.

His sentiments were echoed by Bishop Patrick Mathole, who warned that religious leaders would mobilize to stop any future editions of the concert from taking place in the town.

"We cannot sit back and watch our town become a destination for activities that undermine our values. If such an event is organized here again, we will do everything within the law to ensure it does not take place," said Bishop Mathole.

Mathole alleged that some participants openly engaged in nudity and same-sex acts, describing such conduct as foreign to the traditions and values of the Coast region.

Bishop Macharia Gichui called on parents to strengthen moral guidance for their children and criticized sponsors of the event for allegedly allowing inappropriate behavior.

"Parents have a responsibility to instill discipline and moral values in their children. We also challenge sponsors and organizers to ensure events targeting young people uphold decency and respect for our society," said Bishop Gichui.

The clergy said they would formally petition the government and security agencies to ensure stricter regulation of public entertainment events in Malindi, arguing that such gatherings should not compromise public morality or the welfare of young people.

The organizers of the Summertide concert had not responded to the clergy's allegations at the time of publication.

The Kenya Tuk Tuk transport sector has strongly condemned recent remarks by Professor Makau Mutua describing tuk tuks as “pathetic contraptions,” saying the comments “undermine the dignity and livelihoods” of hundreds of thousands of Kenyans who depend on the industry.

In a statement issued on Monday by the National Chairman of the Tuk Tuk Operators Network (TTON), Vincent M. Were, operators rejected the comments as “unfortunate, inaccurate, demeaning and dismissive” of an industry that has become a key contributor to Kenya’s economy.

“We are deeply disappointed by remarks that reduce a vital transport sector to ridicule,” Were said.

“Tuk tuks are not pathetic contraptions; they are legitimate, regulated and essential means of transport for millions of Kenyans.”

According to the statement, Kenya has approximately 250,000 registered tuk tuks supporting more than 750,000 licensed drivers through shift-based operations.

The sector is also said to sustain over one million livelihoods when mechanics, financiers, insurers, spare parts dealers, fuel stations and other businesses linked to the industry are taken into account.

The operators noted that tuk tuks have expanded to more than 30 counties and facilitate an estimated six million passenger trips daily, transporting commuters to workplaces, schools, hospitals, markets and transport terminals.

They further estimated that the sector generates at least KSh54 billion annually through transport services while contributing significantly to government revenue through taxes, licensing fees, insurance, fuel levies and county permits.

Beyond passenger transport, the industry said it supports thousands of jobs in vehicle assembly, financing, insurance, garages, spare parts businesses, advertising, tourism and hospitality. It also highlighted its potential to drive Kenya’s transition to electric mobility through local assembly, battery-swapping technology and green jobs.

“We are not just moving people; we are moving the economy,” Were said. “Every tuk tuk on the road supports a chain of livelihoods, from the driver to the mechanic, from the insurer to the spare parts dealer.”

The operators maintained that tuk tuks operate legally under Kenyan law, emphasizing that any restrictions on their operations should be guided by legislation, engineering standards and stakeholder consultation rather than public criticism.

“The law must guide transport policy, not insults,” Were said. “If there are concerns about safety, regulation or urban planning, we are ready to engage constructively. But dismissing the sector in public is unfair to the thousands of families who depend on it.”

The statement also highlighted the sector’s collaboration with the National Government, county governments, the National Police Service and other security agencies in promoting road safety, community policing and peaceful coexistence.

The association called on Professor Mutua to publicly withdraw his remarks and issue an unconditional apology within seven days, arguing that his comments had offended hundreds of thousands of families whose livelihoods depend on the sector.

It warned that failure to apologize would prompt consultations with members nationwide on lawful and peaceful measures to defend the industry’s economic interests and dignity.

“We are asking for respect, not confrontation,” Were said. “An apology would go a long way in restoring trust and acknowledging the contribution of this sector to Kenya’s development.”

The operators also appealed to President William Ruto for an opportunity to present the industry’s achievements and challenges, saying the informal transport sector plays a critical role in job creation, youth empowerment and economic growth.

Concluding the statement, TTON described the tuk tuk as “a symbol of resilience, entrepreneurship, innovation, opportunity and hope,” reaffirming its commitment to working with government agencies and stakeholders to improve road safety, advance clean mobility and build a more inclusive economy.

Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir has called on the people of Mombasa to reject divisive politics and rally behind the implementation of the national 10-Point Agenda, saying the country’s progress depends on unity, dialogue and a shared commitment to development.

Speaking during a meet-the-people tour of Jomvu alongside Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya and Jomvu MP Bady Twalib, the Governor said leaders have a responsibility to bring people together rather than exploit differences for political gain.

Governor Nassir noted that the spirit of cooperation championed through the 10-Point Agenda provides an opportunity to focus the nation’s energy on issues that directly affect wananchi, including economic empowerment, job creation, improved public services, accountable leadership, national cohesion and inclusive development.

He urged residents to support initiatives that promote stability and create an environment where government can deliver meaningful development.

The Governor emphasized that Mombasa has everything to gain from a united Kenya, adding that lasting progress is achieved when leaders work together across political divides in the interest of the people.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with both the national government and other leaders to accelerate development projects, expand economic opportunities and improve the quality of life for all residents of Mombasa.

Mombasa Governor H.E. Abdullswamad Shariff Nassir has today sworn in the inaugural Board of the Mombasa County Revolving Fund, officially kick-starting the implementation of the Mombasa County Revolving Fund Act, 2026.

The Fund is expected to provide affordable financing to entrepreneurs, youth, women, persons with disabilities, cooperatives and small businesses, while promoting enterprise development, accountability and sustainable economic growth across the county.

Governor Nassir said the Fund is designed to unlock opportunities for residents by addressing one of the biggest barriers facing small businesses—access to affordable capital.

"Economic transformation begins when people with good ideas have access to the capital they need to grow. We are moving with urgency to operationalize this Fund so that businesses can access financing, create jobs and expand opportunities across Mombasa,” the Governor said.

He noted that the swearing-in of the Board marks a significant milestone in the County Government’s broader agenda of empowering residents and ensuring that Mombasa’s economic growth directly benefits its people.

The inaugural Board is chaired by Samuel Omondi Okech, with Munira Hamisi serving as Chief Executive Officer. Other members are Elizabeth Sonia Michael (Women Representative), Abduswamad Noor (Persons with Disabilities Representative), Hamza Kombo (Youth Representative), Hamisi Kurichwa (Chief Officer, Trade) and Swaleh Mwalizuma (Chief Officer, Finance and Economic Planning).

Swahilipot Hub convened ambassadors, members of the diplomatic community, development partners, private sector leaders, and senior officials from the Mombasa County Government at a high-level breakfast meeting held at the JW Marriott Hotel in Nairobi.

The engagement provided a platform to showcase Swahilipot Hub's decade-long journey of empowering young people through innovation, technology, the creative economy, and entrepreneurship, while unveiling plans for the 7th Edition of Pwani Innovation Week 2026.

2The meeting focused on strengthening strategic partnerships, attracting investment, and fostering international collaboration to expand opportunities for youth-led innovation.

Participants reaffirmed their commitment to supporting initiatives that position Mombasa and the Coast region as emerging hubs for technology, creativity, the blue economy, and sustainable development.

Through such engagements, Swahilipot Hub continues to build bridges between local innovators and global partners, creating pathways for inclusive growth and reinforcing Kenya's position as a leader in Africa's innovation ecosystem.

The Port of Mombasa has officially closed a successful 2025/2026 cruise tourism season with the arrival of the MS Viking Yidun, the ninth cruise vessel to dock at the port this season, bringing the total number of cruise tourists to more than 6,000.

Operated by Viking Ocean Cruises, the MS Viking Yidun made history as the first cruise liner from Asia to call at the Port of Mombasa, carrying a majority of Chinese visitors and marking a significant milestone in Kenya's efforts to diversify its cruise tourism market.

The luxury cruise ship arrived with 717 guests and 489 crew members, who spent their one-day stay exploring Mombasa through guided city tours, cultural excursions and wildlife safaris to some of Kenya's renowned national parks.

The vessel began its voyage from the Port of Shanghai on June 4 and is scheduled to visit 27 ports across 16 countries in Asia and Africa during its itinerary.

Speaking during a colourful reception to welcome the ship, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director Captain William Ruto said the successful cruise season reflects growing international confidence in Mombasa as a premier cruise destination.

"The successful conclusion of this cruise season demonstrates the growing appeal of the Port of Mombasa as a preferred cruise destination. We are working closely with tourism stakeholders to enhance the cruise experience and strengthen Kenya's position as a leading tourism destination," said Capt. Ruto.

He noted that investments made in the modern cruise terminal have significantly enhanced the port's capacity to receive international cruise vessels and improve passenger experience.

"Following our investment in a modern cruise terminal, we are now looking to expand the amenities available at the facility to ensure our guests enjoy comfort and convenience throughout their stay in Kenya," he added.

Capt. Ruto also expressed appreciation to Viking Ocean Cruises and its local shipping agent, Sturrock Shipping K. Ltd, for selecting Mombasa as one of the ship's ports of call.

"We thank Viking Ocean Cruises and our local partners for their confidence in Mombasa. We remain committed to providing seamless port services and ensuring every visitor leaves with memorable experiences of Kenya," he said.

As part of the maritime tradition, Capt. Ruto presented a Certificate of First Call to the ship's master, Captain Alex Sehlsted, to commemorate the vessel's maiden visit to the Port of Mombasa.

The arrival of the MS Viking Yidun underscores Kenya's growing presence on the global cruise tourism map, with the Kenya Ports Authority continuing to invest in world-class port infrastructure and strategic partnerships aimed at attracting more international cruise liners to the country's coastline.

The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) has launched its new Strategic Plan, setting out an ambitious roadmap aimed at strengthening trade, attracting investment and fostering a more competitive business environment in Kenya.

The launch brought together business leaders, government officials and members of the diplomatic community, who described the strategy as a timely blueprint for driving economic growth and enhancing regional trade partnerships.

The strategic plan is expected to guide the Chamber’s operations and advocacy efforts over the coming years.  

Speaking during the launch, Consul General of Uganda to Mombasa Herbert Kiguli lauded the initiative, saying it would further strengthen the long-standing economic ties between Kenya and Uganda.

“This is a great move and we are here to wish the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry well while forging even stronger collaboration,” said Kiguli.

He noted that trade and investment remain the cornerstone of cooperation between the two neighbouring countries, emphasizing the strategic importance of the Port of Mombasa to Uganda’s economy.

“About 60 per cent of Uganda’s goods transit through Mombasa. Kenya is also a major market for Ugandan products, which is why we must support initiatives that promote trade and investment,” he said.

Kiguli added that the relationship between Kenya and Uganda extends beyond commerce to tourism, saying the two countries are closely interconnected.

“Uganda and Kenya share a lot in terms of tourism. We need each other and are inseparable. Strengthening institutions like KNCCI will only deepen our economic integration and create more opportunities for businesses on both sides of the border,” he said.

KNCCI Mombasa Chapter Chairman, Abud Jamal, described the strategic plan as a transformative document that has the potential to reshape the country’s business landscape if effectively implemented.

“This is a document that, if used and implemented well, will have a huge impact, especially when it comes to investment and the entire business sector,” Jamal said.

He said the strategy provides a clear framework for supporting entrepreneurs, attracting investors and enhancing the competitiveness of Kenyan businesses in both regional and international markets.

Jamal called on stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to embrace the strategy and work together to ensure its successful implementation, noting that partnerships will be critical in unlocking Kenya’s economic potential.

The National Treasury has disbursed KSh7.1 billion to 45 counties under the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) Programme to support community-driven climate resilience projects aimed at addressing the growing impacts of climate change.

The funding, released under the third and final tranche of Phase I of the County Climate Resilience Investment (CCRI) Grants, is expected to accelerate the implementation of locally identified projects focused on water security, climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy, landscape restoration, and sustainable livelihoods.

The latest allocation is complemented by KSh4.6 billion contributed by county governments through their development budgets and an additional KSh1.2 billion from the German Government (KfW), bringing the total climate resilience investment for the 2025/2026 financial year to KSh11.7 billion.

Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury and Economic Planning, John Mbadi, said the disbursement underscores the government’s commitment to empowering counties and communities to lead climate adaptation efforts.

“This disbursement represents more than a financial transfer; it is an investment in the resilience, prosperity, and future of our communities. Through the FLLoCA Programme, we are demonstrating that climate finance can be delivered effectively to the local level, where climate impacts are most deeply felt and where solutions can have the greatest impact,” said Mbadi.

He noted that the programme is helping counties strengthen local institutions, protect livelihoods, and implement practical climate solutions that respond to community needs.

Principal Secretary Dr. Chris Kiptoo said the programme’s performance-based financing model ensures funds are channelled to counties that demonstrate strong governance, accountability, and institutional capacity.

“The strength of the FLLoCA Programme lies in its ability to place communities at the centre of climate action. By linking funding to performance and locally identified priorities, we are strengthening accountability, deepening community participation, and enabling counties to implement climate resilience investments that respond directly to the realities faced by their people,” he said.

The Treasury said the programme has already supported more than 2,200 community-selected climate resilience projects across 1,238 wards nationwide. The initiatives are expected to improve access to clean water for over one million Kenyans while promoting sustainable land management, restoring degraded landscapes, and enhancing climate-resilient livelihoods.

The FLLoCA Programme is jointly funded by the Government of Kenya, the World Bank, and development partners including the governments of Germany, Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands.

Mombasa, Nairobi, and Kiambu counties were among those that did not receive allocations under the latest disbursement, while Kakamega County received the highest overall allocation of KSh564.4 million. Marsabit received KSh487.9 million, Bomet KSh431.1 million, Bungoma KSh412 million, and Kisii KSh408.7 million.

The Treasury said the latest funding will enable counties to continue implementing their County Climate Change Action Plans, translating local climate priorities into tangible investments that build resilience and promote sustainable development.