Two people have died and several others sustained injuries after a bus ferrying mourners from Mombasa to attend the funeral of the late Elvis “Beast” Otieno was involved in a road accident in Nyando, Kisumu County.

The accident occurred on Friday, August 7, 2026, involving one of five buses that had departed from Mombasa carrying mourners to attend the funeral service scheduled for Saturday, August 8.

In a statement, Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sheriff Nassir confirmed the accident, saying preliminary reports indicated that the bus lost control in Nyando.

“It is with deep concern that I have received reports of a road traffic accident involving one of five buses that departed Mombasa carrying mourners travelling to attend the funeral service of our departed brother, Elvis ‘Beast’ Otieno,” Governor Nassir said.

The Governor said authorities had so far confirmed two fatalities, while a number of passengers sustained injuries and were evacuated to nearby medical facilities for assessment and treatment.

“Regrettably, we have so far received confirmation of two fatalities. A number of passengers sustained injuries, and ambulances have evacuated some of the injured to nearby medical facilities for assessment and treatment,” he said.

Governor Nassir said the Mombasa County Government was in consultation with the Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr Raymond Omollo, as security and emergency agencies responded to the accident scene.

“Our immediate priority is to ensure that every injured passenger receives the necessary medical attention and that the families affected are appropriately supported,” Nassir said.

The Governor also appealed to students at the Technical University of Mombasa and the wider Mombasa community to remain calm and avoid sharing unverified information as authorities work to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident.

He urged the public to allow authorities to formally confirm the identities and condition of those involved before circulating further information.

“I appeal particularly to the student fraternity of the Technical University of Mombasa, and to the wider Mombasa community, to remain calm and avoid circulating unverified information as the authorities establish the full circumstances and confirm the identities and condition of those involved,” he said.

The accident has cast a shadow over the planned funeral journey, with the mourners having been travelling to bid farewell to their friend and fellow member of the community.

Governor Nassir extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wished those injured a speedy recovery.

“We mourn with the families that have lost loved ones and pray for strength and comfort for them during this painful time. We equally pray for the speedy recovery of all those who have been injured,” he said.

The County Government of Mombasa said it would continue engaging with the relevant authorities and provide further updates once additional information is formally confirmed.

The funeral of Elvis “Beast” Otieno is scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 8, 2026.

Chief Justice Martha Koome has called for strong action to be taken to curtail the prevalence of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).

She said the menace has now reached alarming and devastating levels creating a dangerous impact on communities in the Western region of the country.

Speaking in Bungoma during an engagement with members of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and the Bungoma Court Users Committee (CUC), the Chief Justice described the prevalence of SGBV in the county as deeply concerning, noting that the number of reported cases reflects a serious societal crisis requiring urgent and coordinated national action.

"The prevalence of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence is alarming, and its impact on families and communities demands a whole-of-society response," she said.

Chief Justice Koome urged Court Users Committees to strengthen collaboration with justice sector institutions, government agencies, and community stakeholders to develop preventive interventions that address the root causes of SGBV.

She noted that prevention efforts would not only protect vulnerable members of society but also reduce the burden on the justice system and correctional facilities.

Reaffirming the Judiciary's commitment to protecting victims of SGBV, the Chief Justice said cases involving Sexual and Gender-Based Violence would continue to receive priority to ensure timely access to justice.

She further announced that the Judiciary will consider establishing a dedicated SGBV Registry within the courts in Bungoma County to facilitate the expeditious handling of such cases.

The proposed registry would help minimize delays and reduce the risk of victims being re-traumatized through repeated court appearances.

Chief Justice Koome also commended the Bungoma Court Users Committee for its strong collaboration in enhancing the administration of justice and improving service delivery to court users.

Speaking during the meeting, Bungoma Law Society of Kenya representative Daisy Wakoli welcomed the Judiciary's continued efforts to improve access to justice, particularly through the establishment of the Small Claims Court in Bungoma and the Court of Appeal station in Kakamega, which handles appeals arising from Bungoma County.

She, however, raised concerns over the deteriorating state of court infrastructure in Bungoma, noting that existing court facilities require urgent rehabilitation and modernization to provide a dignified environment for justice seekers.

Ms. Wakoli further observed that despite the availability of adequate land at Kimilili and Webuye Law Courts, new court infrastructure has yet to be developed. She appealed to the Judiciary to consider constructing new court buildings at the two stations.

The Law Society of Kenya also requested the establishment and operationalization of a new court at Kopsiro to reduce the distance travelled by litigants seeking judicial services.

Additionally, the Society called for the establishment of a Court of Appeal Sub-Registry in Bungoma to bring appellate services closer to residents.

Recognizing Bungoma as one of the counties with a high prevalence of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, the LSK further appealed for the establishment of a dedicated SGBV Court to enhance access to specialized and victim-centred justice.

The Witness Protection Agency commended Bungoma County for its commitment to referring eligible witnesses for protection and encouraged justice sector stakeholders to sustain the referrals to safeguard witnesses participating in criminal proceedings.

Principal Secretary for Children Services Karen Ageng'o underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between the Judiciary, the Department of Children's Services, and other justice sector institutions in protecting the rights and welfare of children.

She noted that strengthening families and community support systems remains critical in preventing child vulnerability and reducing the number of children entering the justice system.

She also acknowledged the important role played by Court Users Committees in advancing the promotion and protection of children's rights.

The Principal Secretary further urged courts to facilitate early recording of victims' and witnesses' testimony in children's matters to support the expeditious hearing and determination of cases involving children.

Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga praised the close collaboration among justice sector agencies, emphasizing that effective delivery of justice depends on strong institutional partnerships.

He also called upon communities to take greater responsibility in protecting and nurturing children, noting that stronger family and community support systems would reduce children's vulnerability and their likelihood of coming into conflict with the law.

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of justice sector stakeholders to strengthen collaboration, improve access to justice, enhance victim protection, and develop coordinated responses to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence and other pressing justice challenges affecting the people of Bungoma County.

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.