The Government has resolved procurement challenges that delayed the rollout of Kenya’s Seafarers’ Identity Document (SID), with the new electronic system now expected to be fully operational before the end of 2026.

Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Ali Joho made the announcement while appearing before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Diaspora Affairs and Migrant Workers to respond to concerns over delays in issuing the internationally recognised identification documents for Kenyan seafarers.

The Committee, chaired by Lydia Haika, was informed that implementation of the new SID system is underway after the contract for the turnkey solution was awarded to Konza Technopolis in June 2026.

According to the Cabinet Secretary, the project has a tentative implementation period of six months, with commissioning of the system expected before the end of the year.

CS Joho told Members that preparations for the SID production facility at Bahari Towers are progressing well. He said the Government is working with the Communications Authority of Kenya to meet security certification requirements, while installation of the necessary ICT infrastructure is ongoing. He added that the card personalisation machine has already been completed.

Addressing the cause of the delays, Joho attributed the setback to procurement-related technicalities that affected the acquisition of the SID turnkey solution. He, however, assured the Committee that the issues had been resolved and the Government is now focused on completing the remaining processes required to operationalise the system.

He further committed to delivering a secure, internationally compliant electronic SID system within the planned timeline, revealing that the first five pilot Seafarers’ Identity Documents are expected to be produced in October this year for testing.

Members of the Committee raised concerns over the six-month implementation timeline, saying Kenyan seafarers have waited long enough for the crucial document.

Ruweida Obo and Pamela Njoki urged the Ministry to fast-track the rollout, arguing that the implementation period was too lengthy given the demand from Kenyan seafarers seeking employment abroad.

Responding to the concerns, CS Joho defended the timeline, saying the Government could not afford to compromise on security and international compliance.

“It was important for us to get this right since these are critical security documents to be used globally. The issuance of these SIDs is a sensitive matter, hence we must make sure whatever is issued passes global tests and standards,” he said.

The Cabinet Secretary added that Kenya is working closely with the International Labour Organization to ensure the new electronic SID system complies with ILO Convention No. 185 as well as applicable International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

Once operational, the electronic Seafarers’ Identity Document is expected to enhance the mobility of Kenyan seafarers by providing a globally recognised identification document that meets international security requirements, thereby improving their access to employment opportunities in the global maritime industry.

The Government has resolved procurement challenges that delayed the rollout of Kenya’s Seafarers’ Identity Document (SID), with the new electronic system now expected to be fully operational before the end of 2026.

Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Ali Joho made the announcement while appearing before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Diaspora Affairs and Migrant Workers to respond to concerns over delays in issuing the internationally recognised identification documents for Kenyan seafarers.

The Committee, chaired by Lydia Haika, was informed that implementation of the new SID system is underway after the contract for the turnkey solution was awarded to Konza Technopolis in June 2026.

According to the Cabinet Secretary, the project has a tentative implementation period of six months, with commissioning of the system expected before the end of the year.

CS Joho told Members that preparations for the SID production facility at Bahari Towers are progressing well. He said the Government is working with the Communications Authority of Kenya to meet security certification requirements, while installation of the necessary ICT infrastructure is ongoing. He added that the card personalisation machine has already been completed.

Addressing the cause of the delays, Joho attributed the setback to procurement-related technicalities that affected the acquisition of the SID turnkey solution. He, however, assured the Committee that the issues had been resolved and the Government is now focused on completing the remaining processes required to operationalise the system.

He further committed to delivering a secure, internationally compliant electronic SID system within the planned timeline, revealing that the first five pilot Seafarers’ Identity Documents are expected to be produced in October this year for testing.

Members of the Committee raised concerns over the six-month implementation timeline, saying Kenyan seafarers have waited long enough for the crucial document.

Ruweida Obo and Pamela Njoki urged the Ministry to fast-track the rollout, arguing that the implementation period was too lengthy given the demand from Kenyan seafarers seeking employment abroad.

Responding to the concerns, CS Joho defended the timeline, saying the Government could not afford to compromise on security and international compliance.

“It was important for us to get this right since these are critical security documents to be used globally. The issuance of these SIDs is a sensitive matter, hence we must make sure whatever is issued passes global tests and standards,” he said.

The Cabinet Secretary added that Kenya is working closely with the International Labour Organization to ensure the new electronic SID system complies with ILO Convention No. 185 as well as applicable International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

Once operational, the electronic Seafarers’ Identity Document is expected to enhance the mobility of Kenyan seafarers by providing a globally recognised identification document that meets international security requirements, thereby improving their access to employment opportunities in the global maritime industry.

Tanzania is set to strengthen its leadership in the global primary health care agenda as it hosts the Second International Primary Health Care Conference (IPHCC 2026) in Arusha from September 9–11, 2026.

The conference, organised by Tanzania, will bring together more than 2,500 participants from across the world, including government leaders, health experts, researchers, international organisations, academic institutions and development partners, to discuss strategies for strengthening primary health care systems and accelerating progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

As the host and organiser of the Second International Primary Health Care Conference, Tanzania will use the platform to showcase its progress, share experiences and provide leadership in advancing sustainable and people-centred health systems in Africa and beyond.

The conference will focus on the theme: “Towards Universal Health Coverage: Strengthening Sustainable Health Financing, Efficiency and Quality Improvement within Primary Health Care,” highlighting the importance of sustainable financing, efficiency and quality improvement in delivering accessible health services.

Speaking on preparations for the conference, the Director of Health, Nutrition and Social Welfare Services at the Prime Minister’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), Dr. Rashid Mfaume, said the meeting will provide an important platform for exchanging experiences, innovations and research findings aimed at strengthening primary health care systems.

He said primary health care remains the foundation of effective health systems, serving as the first point of contact where communities access preventive services, early diagnosis, basic treatment and health education.

Meanwhile, Dr. Pius Kamana said the conference will discuss key health priorities, including youth health, nutrition, One Health, traditional medicine, social welfare, health diplomacy and health security.

He added that the conference will promote scientific exchange, with more than 400 research papers expected to be presented by experts from different parts of the world.

The conference comes at a time when Tanzania continues to invest in strengthening primary health care through expansion of health facilities, improving access to medicines and medical supplies, and enhancing the capacity of health workers.

Globally, primary health care is recognised as a critical foundation for achieving Universal Health Coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal Three, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.

Beyond health discussions, the Second International Primary Health Care Conference is expected to enhance Tanzania’s global health diplomacy, promote conference tourism and strengthen partnerships among countries and health stakeholders.

By hosting this international gathering, Tanzania aims to demonstrate its commitment to leading conversations that shape the future of primary health care and contribute to the global pursuit of health for all.

Hundreds of youth, women and elderly groups from Mvita Sub-county are set to benefit from an empowerment programme spearheaded by Mombasa Senator Mohammed Faki under the Asanteni Mombasa initiative.

The Mvita Edition of the programme is scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 8, at Ronald Ngala Grounds, bringing together community groups from across the constituency for an initiative aimed at promoting economic empowerment and improving livelihoods. 

The programme is expected to provide support to organized groups, reaffirming the Senator’s commitment to empowering vulnerable members of society through initiatives that promote self-reliance, entrepreneurship and sustainable income-generating activities.

Speaking ahead of the event during consultations with youth, women and elderly representatives, Senator Faki expressed gratitude to the people of Mvita for their continued support and emphasized the importance of empowering grassroots groups as a way of fostering inclusive development. 

The Asanteni Mombasa empowerment programme has become a key platform through which the Senator engages residents while supporting community-based organizations that play a vital role in driving economic growth and improving household incomes.

Residents, community leaders and beneficiaries are expected to attend the event, which will mark another milestone in the Senator’s ongoing efforts to uplift communities across Mombasa County through targeted empowerment initiatives. 

Renowned chef Yusuf Gharani has officially embarked on an ambitious attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest barbecue marathon, kicking off the historic challenge at Swahilipot Hub in Mombasa.

The marathon got underway on Saturday, with the chef already 47 minutes into the challenge as supporters, family, friends and members of the public gathered to witness the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable test of endurance and culinary skill. 

Chef Yusuf is expected to grill continuously for seven days and seven nights, adhering to Guinness World Records guidelines that allow only five minutes of rest for every hour completed. The challenge will run until August 8, during which he will remain at the grilling station for nearly the entire duration. 

The record attempt has drawn excitement from Mombasa residents and food enthusiasts, with many turning up at Swahilipot Hub to cheer him on as he begins the demanding journey.

If successful, Chef Yusuf will etch his name into the Guinness World Records, showcasing not only his passion for barbecue but also Kenya’s growing culinary excellence on the global stage.

Supporters are expected to continue streaming into the venue throughout the week to encourage the chef as he pushes the limits of endurance in pursuit of history.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir has announced that the county government will immediately recruit more than 500 nurses on contract to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services following a nationwide strike notice issued by the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN).

Speaking during a press briefing at his office on Thursday evening, Nassir assured residents that public health facilities across the county will remain operational regardless of the planned industrial action.

“There shall be no disruption of healthcare services in Mombasa,” the governor said.

“The County Government’s foremost responsibility is to protect life and guarantee the continuous delivery of essential services. I have therefore directed the County Public Service Board to immediately commence the recruitment of over 500 nurses on contract to ensure that healthcare services remain uninterrupted for the people of Mombasa.”

Nassir described the strike notice as premature, noting that parties to the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) are still engaged in discussions aimed at resolving the outstanding issues.

“In my view, the strike notice is premature because the parties to the Collective Bargaining Agreement remain actively engaged in discussions. I remain hopeful that these engagements will yield an amicable solution that serves the best interests of both healthcare workers and the public,” he said.

The governor appealed to nurses in Mombasa to continue serving residents while negotiations continue, citing the constructive relationship the county government has maintained with healthcare workers over the years.

“I therefore appeal to our nurses in Mombasa, in the spirit of the constructive partnership we have built over the years, to continue serving our people as these discussions continue. We value your service and remain committed to addressing legitimate concerns through dialogue and the appropriate legal and institutional processes.”

Nassir, who also chairs the Council of Governors Health Committee, said county governments are pursuing legal intervention over the strike notice, arguing that several of the issues raised by the union are still under discussion or fall outside the direct mandate of individual counties.

He also revealed that the county had received isolated reports of individuals attempting to intimidate healthcare workers and discourage patients from seeking treatment at public health facilities.

“We have received isolated reports of individuals attempting to intimidate healthcare workers and chase patients away from our health facilities. Such actions are unacceptable, undermine the constitutional right of residents to access healthcare, and will not be tolerated.”

The governor emphasized that the decision to recruit additional nurses was intended solely to guarantee uninterrupted healthcare services and should not be viewed as punitive.

“This is not a punitive measure against any healthcare worker. It is a necessary intervention to ensure that residents continue receiving essential healthcare services while the matter is being addressed through dialogue and the courts.”

He reiterated that no patient would be denied treatment in Mombasa because of the planned industrial action.

“Our commitment remains unwavering. No patient will be turned away, no hospital will be closed, and every resident who walks into a public health facility in Mombasa will continue to receive the care they need.”

The Kenya National Union of Nurses has issued a nationwide strike notice citing unresolved issues, including the implementation of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the 2017 Return-to-Work Formula, career progression guidelines, the absorption of Universal Health Coverage nurses, and other labour-related concerns.

County governments, through the Council of Governors, have indicated they will seek legal redress while negotiations continue in an effort to avert the planned industrial action.

Former Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa has resigned from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), marking a major political shift ahead of the 2027 General Election and setting the stage for her anticipated bid for the Kilifi gubernatorial seat. 

Speaking on Thursday, Jumwa described her resignation as one of the most difficult decisions of her political career, saying it followed months of reflection, prayer and consultations with the people of Kilifi.

“Today, I have made one of the most difficult decisions of my political journey. After deep reflection, prayer, and listening to the voices of the people of Kilifi, I have officially resigned from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA),” she said.

Jumwa emphasized that her departure from the ruling party was not driven by bitterness but by what she termed as her commitment to safeguarding democratic principles and the people’s right to freely choose their leaders.

“This decision is guided not by anger, but by my conscience and my unwavering commitment to defend the democratic right of the people to choose their leaders freely. My loyalty has always been, and will always remain, with the people of Kilifi.”

The former Gender Cabinet Secretary reiterated her commitment to championing the interests of Kilifi residents, saying her political journey remains anchored on justice, accountability, opportunity and servant leadership.

“I remain steadfast in our shared vision for a county built on justice, accountability, opportunity, and servant leadership.”

While she did not immediately reveal her next political party, Jumwa disclosed that she would soon unveil the political vehicle she intends to use as she seeks to challenge for the Kilifi governorship in the 2027 elections.

“In the coming days, we shall unveil the political vehicle that will carry our collective dream for a better Kilifi.”

She also thanked her supporters for standing by her throughout her political journey.

“I thank you for your continued trust, prayers, and unwavering support. Together, we will write the next chapter of Kilifi’s future.”

Jumwa’s exit from UDA comes amid increasing political realignments across the country as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election. A founding member of UDA and one of President William Ruto’s most vocal allies at the Coast, her departure is expected to reshape the political landscape in Kilifi, where she is preparing for another stab at the governor’s seat after unsuccessfully contesting the position in 2022. 

The Mombasa County Government has taken another major step towards addressing youth unemployment with the commencement of the registration of colleges and vocational institutions that will implement the Skills Mtaani Programme.

The initiative, which forms part of Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir’s youth empowerment agenda, will combine technical training, financial support through a revolving fund and digital monitoring systems to ensure transparency and accountability.

Speaking during the registration exercise, Governor Nassir said unemployment continues to be one of the county’s most pressing challenges and requires practical interventions that create opportunities for young people.

“We are bringing together institutions because we want to work collectively to solve unemployment. This programme is about creating opportunities and giving our youth the skills they need to build sustainable livelihoods.”

The Governor said the programme has been designed with strict accountability measures to ensure fairness in the selection of institutions and beneficiaries.

He announced that only registered and approved colleges will participate, after which the Department of ICT will roll out a digital application platform where young people can independently choose their preferred institutions.

“There will be no discrimination in this programme. Every eligible young person will have an equal opportunity to apply and select the institution they wish to attend.”

Governor Nassir also said digital attendance tracking will be introduced to monitor participation and protect public resources.

“This investment must produce results. Attendance monitoring will help us ensure that those benefiting from county support are actively participating in the training and are ready for the next level of assistance.”

Upon successful completion of training, beneficiaries will be considered for support through the county’s revolving fund to acquire tools and equipment required to start businesses or pursue employment.

The Governor said some graduates are also expected to secure overseas employment opportunities through the skills acquired.

Airport Ward MCA and Education Committee Chairperson Ibrahim Omondi described the programme as a bold investment in the future of Mombasa’s youth.

“Knowledge and skills are the currency of today’s economy. By partnering with accredited institutions, the county government is creating a pathway for young people to become self-reliant and competitive in the job market.”

He added that the County Assembly fully supports the initiative and called on young people to take advantage of the opportunities once applications are opened.

The Skills Mtaani Programme is expected to benefit thousands of young people across Mombasa through a transparent, technology-driven system that prioritizes fairness, accountability and quality training while strengthening the county’s long-term strategy for reducing unemployment.

The County Government of Mombasa has announced the launch of the Skills Mtaani initiative, a programme aimed at strengthening technical and vocational education through partnerships with training institutions across the county.

The registration and partnership drive is scheduled to take place on Thursday, July 30, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. at Tononoka Hall, where Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, vocational colleges and skills training centres will be invited to register and collaborate with the county government. 

Organised by the Mombasa County Department of Education and Vocational Training under the Elimu Scheme, the initiative seeks to bring together institutions offering diverse technical and professional courses, including TVET colleges, vocational training centres, henna training colleges, make-up colleges, salon and beauty schools, and other skills development institutions.

According to the county government, the programme is designed to enhance access to quality technical and vocational education while creating stronger linkages between training institutions and county-led youth empowerment programmes.

The initiative is expected to expand opportunities for young people to acquire practical, market-driven skills that improve employability and entrepreneurship. 

The county has urged all eligible institutions to participate in the registration exercise and become partners in advancing skills development under the Skills Mtaani programme.

Officials say the collaboration will help build a coordinated network of accredited training providers capable of equipping Mombasa’s youth with competencies required in sectors such as engineering, automotive technology, electrical installation, hospitality, tailoring, beauty and creative arts. 

The Skills Mtaani initiative forms part of the county government’s broader agenda of investing in human capital development by making technical and vocational education more accessible and responsive to the needs of the job market. Through partnerships with training institutions, Mombasa County aims to empower more young people with practical skills that can drive economic growth, innovation and self-employment. 

Council of Governors Health Committee Chairperson and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has called for greater accountability among healthcare workers, saying Kenyans deserve quality and reliable health services in return for the huge investments county governments make in the health sector.

Speaking during the official opening of the 2026 Devolution Sensitisation Week in Garissa, Governor Nassir said county governments continue to invest heavily in training healthcare professionals, equipping health facilities and paying staff salaries, making accountability to wananchi a fundamental responsibility. 

“Accountability in healthcare is accountability to the mwananchi. County governments invest heavily in training our healthcare workers, equipping our facilities and paying salaries, and the public deserves a fair return through reliable, quality services,” Nassir said.

He noted that the Council of Governors would strengthen supervision across county health facilities to ensure healthcare workers uphold professionalism and deliver quality services.

“Going forward, we will strengthen supervision and accountability across our facilities,” he said.

The governor also cautioned health workers against engaging in private business during official working hours, describing the practice as a misuse of public resources and a betrayal of public trust.

“No healthcare worker should be conducting private business when they are meant to be serving patients in a public facility. That is an abuse of public time and public resources, and we must be prepared to treat it for what it is—a form of corruption,” he stated.

While acknowledging the critical role played by healthcare workers in delivering services, Nassir emphasized that government support must be matched by commitment and integrity.

“Our healthcare workers deserve our support, but with that support comes a responsibility to serve,” he added.

The week-long Devolution Sensitisation Week has brought together national and county government leaders, development partners, civil society organizations and members of the public to showcase the gains made under devolution while discussing strategies to improve governance and service delivery across counties.