Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has pushed back against claims suggesting that public health facilities in the county are struggling with severe shortages of medicines, saying County Government facilities currently record a prescription fill rate of 92 per cent.

Speaking during the commissioning of the Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital Frontage Redevelopment Project, Nassir said the figures recently cited by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale covered 239 health facilities in Mombasa, including both government and private facilities.

The Governor clarified that only 52 of the facilities captured in the data are operated by the County Government of Mombasa, arguing that it was therefore misleading to use the overall county-wide figures to assess the performance of the devolved government’s health facilities.

“Out of the 239 facilities being referred to, only 52 are County Government facilities. Our prescription fill rate in those facilities stands at 92 per cent,” Nassir said.

The Governor said his administration was prepared to be held accountable for the performance of facilities under its management but insisted that public debate must be based on accurate and properly disaggregated data.

Nassir maintained that the County Government has continued to invest in medicines, healthcare infrastructure and service delivery, with the 92 per cent prescription fill rate demonstrating progress in ensuring patients receive prescribed medicines at public health facilities.

His remarks came as he commissioned the redeveloped frontage of Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital, a project undertaken through a partnership between the County Government of Mombasa, Jaffer Foundation and Bulkstream Ltd.

The Governor said his administration would continue working with development partners and the private sector to modernise healthcare infrastructure, improve patient experience and strengthen the quality of healthcare services available to Mombasa residents.

Nassir welcomed scrutiny of his administration’s healthcare record but cautioned against the use of aggregated statistics that fail to distinguish between County Government facilities and privately operated healthcare providers.

Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL) has announced the first winner SH1 million Winner in highly popular "Form Imejipa Na County" consumer promotion that will see prizes worth over Sh35 million shillings awarded to consumers who participate in the campaign. 

Jossy Kioko who received her prize from Ivy Kiarie, KWAL Brand Manager, Brown Spirits is one of the lucky participants who tried their luck by purchasing a bottle of County at a local establishment, scratching the label panel to reveal the entry code and submitting it by dialing the toll free USSD code *459*9# on their mobile phone.

Speaking during the official handover, Jossy expressed her excitement saying “I am very happy. I can now expand my Barbershop business with the prize money and continue to improve our future.”

Jossy was joined by laptop winners Edward Nyaga, Mauryne Mutua and Emmanuel Odhiambo as well as smartphone winners Rael Maseso, Irene Muthuka and Mauryne Mutua to claim their winnings at KWAL.

With just over a month, the Form Imejipa na County campaign has seen over 48,000 winners of diverse prizes from across the country.

The campaign which was officially launched on 3rd June 2026 celebrates the resilience and entrepreneurial outlook of County’s core market segment who are widely regarded as the engine of Kenya’s economic growth and enduring prosperity.

KWAL has rolled out the campaign nationwide with county-level activations spread across its duration.

Through the Promotion, eligible participants stand the chance to win Sh1 million in cash every month, Pool Tables, Phones, Laptops or a Content Creator Kit in monthly draws. On a weekly basis, Motor Bikes, Shopping Vouchers or Instant Cash Rewards of up to Sh10,000 will be available.

Daily instant prizes of airtime will also be available through scratch and win opportunities in the Promotion for County Brandy that is running from 4th June 2026 to 31st August 2026.

"We are celebrating our consumers and have made an effort to provide rewards that match our customer’s lifestyles, such as airtime, cash, motor bikes, pool tables or content creator kits for those who are dedicated to their labour and pursuing progress,” said Alice Mwalimo, Commercial Director, KWAL.

 A section of senior political leaders from the Coast region have intensified their support for President William Ruto, citing development projects, increased government representation, and expanded public services as reasons for backing his re-election in 2027.

Speaking in Likoni, area Mp Mishi Mboko said their decision to work with the Kenya Kwanza administration was informed by what she described as tangible development and national unity.

“We are supporting the President because he has managed to unite the country. Yes, we are in ODM, but we are working with the government. President Ruto has delivered on most of his promises and deserves another term,” Mboko said.

Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports Salim Mvurya said Coast leaders had collectively agreed that remaining in the opposition had not yielded meaningful benefits for the region.

“We sat together as Coast leaders and agreed that we have always been in the opposition as a region, and that has not been beneficial to us. President Ruto showed us that he has the best interests of the Coast at heart, and that is why we decided to work with him,” Mvurya said.

He credited the President with restoring key port services to Mombasa soon after assuming office and said the government had made unprecedented investments in the region.

“His first assignment after taking over government was bringing back port services to our region. President Ruto has invested heavily in development projects at the Coast. No President has ever accomplished such projects in our region,” he said.

Mvurya also pointed to increased representation of Coast leaders in government.

“Today, we have two Cabinet Secretaries from the region and several Principal Secretaries. The government has also set aside more than Sh300 billion for development projects in the Coast region,” he added.

He accused some opposition politicians of misleading residents ahead of the next General Election.

“There are politicians who are out to deceive and sell lies to the people. They have no agenda for our region. Some even served as Deputy President and never paid attention to the Coast, but today they are referring to us as cousins. President William Ruto deserves two terms,” Mvurya said.

Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho urged Coast residents to treat the 2027 elections as a critical moment for the region’s future.

“Do not take the 2027 elections as a joke or lightly. These elections are very important to us as the people of the Coast region. We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past,” Joho said.

He argued that the region stood to benefit from continuity in leadership.

“We must re-elect President William Ruto. He has our best interests at heart, and he has already demonstrated that through the projects his administration has delivered. We will be the losers if we do not re-elect him. You only realize the value of something after you lose it. Let us not get there.”

Joho further cautioned voters to carefully evaluate their choices.

“We must be very careful and tactful when making our decision about the next election. If we get it wrong, then we are done,” he said.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir also defended the government’s record, highlighting improvements in healthcare and access to national identification documents.

“It is only through the government of President William Ruto that our community health workers have started earning monthly. We now have a working health insurance system. Let us not listen to the naysayers,” Nassir said.

He further noted that longstanding challenges affecting sections of the Coast had begun to receive attention.

“Some used to refer to us as radicals and even denied us identification cards. Through President Ruto’s government, our people are now getting IDs,” the governor added.

The leaders maintained that continued collaboration between the Coast region and the national government would accelerate development and improve service delivery, while urging residents to support President Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.

Kenyan Afro-R&B artist Cara Akello returns with "Sumu," her first release following her artistic rebrand.

The song explores a love so deep and consuming that it may appear toxic from the outside, yet is ultimately rooted in genuine connection, trust and devotion.

Blending Afro-R&B with subtle African influences, warm basslines, and smooth production, Sumu delivers a timeless love story that resonates with radio listeners, streaming audiences, and Afro-pop fans alike.

With Sumu, Cara Akello opens a bold new chapter in her career, offering listeners an authentic sound that is both modern and deeply rooted in African musical influences. The single reflects her artistic growth and signals an exciting future for one of East Africa's emerging voices.

Watch/Listen: https://ziikimedia.ffm.to/sumu

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has raised alarm over a wave of fraudulent claims involving alleged “genital disappearance” after physical contact, warning that criminal syndicates are exploiting public fear to orchestrate robberies and incite deadly mob justice across the Coast region.

In a statement issued by the Regional Criminal Investigation Officer (RCIO)Coast Benson Kasyoki  19 incidents linked to the hoax have been reported across Kwale, Kilifi, and Mombasa counties.

Kilifi recorded the highest number of cases with nine, followed by Kwale with seven and Mombasa with three. Two people have lost their lives after being lynched by mobs in separate incidents in Kwale and Mombasa following false accusations.

Kasyoki said investigations conducted jointly with the Ministry of Health and County Medical Officers found no evidence to support the claims.

“All alleged victims have undergone thorough clinical examinations and forensic medical results conclusively prove zero physical harm, zero anatomical changes, and zero loss of organs,” said Kasyoki.

According to Kasyoki organized criminal syndicates are using the false claims to create panic before carrying out thefts and robberies.

The DCI explained that the criminals stage incidents where one suspect falsely shouts that their organs have disappeared after being touched by an innocent passerby. As members of the public gather and attack the accused, accomplices steal from bystanders, pickpocket victims and rob pedestrians. Police also blamed the rapid spread of unverified information on social media for escalating fear and mob justice.

The RCIO announced a series of enforcement measures to curb the trend, including pursuing murder charges against those involved in the fatal mob attacks.

"Anyone identified participating in, inciting, or cheering mob justice will be arrested and charged with murder,” the RCIO warned.

The DCI further warned that individuals who deliberately raise false alarms claiming their organs have disappeared will face prosecution for incitement to violence and creating a public disturbance.

 Cybercrime officers have also been deployed to identify and arrest those spreading the hoax online, with the agency revealing that 17 of the 19 reported cases are already pending before court.

Appealing for calm, the RCIO urged residents not to fall prey to misinformation or participate in mob justice.

"I urge all residents of Kwale, Kilifi, and Mombasa to remain calm, ignore these malicious hoaxes, and go about their daily businesses without fear. Do not allow criminal gangs to weaponize psychological anxieties to cause bloodshed in our communities,” the RCIO said.

The DCI has advised members of the public to report any attempts to incite crowds or stage similar false alarms to the nearest police station or DCI office instead of taking the law into their own hands.

The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has officially launched the Vessel Traffic Management and Information System (VTMIS) at the Port of Mombasa, marking a major milestone in the modernization of Kenya's maritime sector and reinforcing the port's position as a leading regional gateway.

The state-of-the-art system, unveiled on Wednesday, is designed to enhance the safety, security and efficiency of vessel navigation within Kenya's territorial waters while improving oversight of port operations through advanced digital technologies.

The VTMIS will strengthen vessel traffic management by providing real-time monitoring and coordination of ship movements, improving traffic control, resource allocation and logistics management.

The project forms part of KPA's broader digital transformation strategy aimed at supporting safe, efficient and sustainable maritime operations.

Speaking during the launch, KPA Managing Director Capt. William K. Ruto said the Authority remains committed to investing in innovative technologies that enhance operational efficiency and enable the Port of Mombasa to meet the growing demands of international maritime trade.

"At the Port of Mombasa, we have continued to register impressive growth in both cargo volumes and vessel traffic. The increasing number of vessel calls requires modern systems that can support safe and efficient navigation while maintaining the high standards expected of a world-class port," said Capt. Ruto.

He noted that the VTMIS represents a significant investment in the future of Kenya's maritime industry by enhancing navigational safety, minimizing operational risks and improving service delivery to shipping lines and other port users.

The newly commissioned system has been deployed across three strategically connected sites: the Port Vessel Traffic Services Control Tower, Ras Serani Signal Station and the Shimanzi Oil Terminal Radar Site.

Together, the facilities operate as a single integrated platform, providing comprehensive real-time visibility and control of vessel movements within the port and its approaches.

The VTMIS integrates several advanced technologies, including radar surveillance, Automatic Identification System (AIS) vessel tracking, integrated marine communication systems, meteorological monitoring, oil spill detection capabilities and digital port management functions.

The integration of these technologies is expected to significantly improve situational awareness for marine operators, enhance decision-making, reduce navigational risks and strengthen the overall safety and efficiency of maritime operations at the Port of Mombasa.

Beyond technology, the project has also focused on strengthening human resource capacity.

Capt. Ruto revealed that KPA has invested in specialized training for its personnel in key operational areas, including vessel traffic services, radar operations, port management information systems, pilotage support and internationally recognized certification programmes under the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA).

"We have strengthened both our technological capability and our institutional capacity to sustain and maximize the benefits of this modern system," he said.

He reaffirmed the Authority's commitment to continuous investment in world-class infrastructure, digital transformation and sustainable maritime operations, noting that such initiatives are critical in supporting Kenya's economic growth, enhancing regional integration and improving the country's global competitiveness.

The operationalization of the Vessel Traffic Management and Information System is expected to improve the efficiency of vessel movements, reduce turnaround times, strengthen emergency response capabilities and enhance environmental protection through improved monitoring and oil spill detection.

Industry stakeholders who attended the launch described the project as a transformative development for Kenya's maritime sector. Representatives from the shipping industry, maritime agencies and other port stakeholders hailed the VTMIS as a game changer that will enhance maritime safety, improve operational efficiency and increase the competitiveness of the Port of Mombasa as East Africa's premier gateway for regional and international trade.

With cargo volumes and vessel traffic continuing to grow, the adoption of advanced digital systems such as the VTMIS positions the Kenya Ports Authority to meet future maritime demands while delivering safer, smarter and more efficient port services for Kenya and the wider East African region.

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.