Members of the Luo community drawn from various wards in Nyali Constituency have endorsed Chief Pauline Oginga for the Nyali parliamentary seat, citing her distinguished public service record, leadership credentials, and commitment to community development.

The endorsement was made during a luncheon meeting held in Nyali, where community leaders, elders, youth representatives, and professionals gathered to express their condolences following the recent loss ODM Party leader Raila Amolo Odinga.

While the meeting began as a condolence gathering, it quickly evolved into a discussion on the political future of Nyali Constituency, with participants unanimously expressing their support for Chief Oginga to seek elective leadership.

Speaking during the event, the leaders described Chief Oginga as a tested and capable leader whose years in public administration have demonstrated her ability to serve communities effectively and deliver tangible results.

"We believe Nyali deserves a leader with integrity, experience, and a proven record of service. Chief Pauline Oginga has consistently demonstrated these qualities, and we are convinced she has what it takes to represent the people of Nyali in Parliament," said one of the community leaders.

The leaders noted that since 2020, Chief Oginga has served in various capacities within the national government, earning recognition for her professionalism, dedication, and commitment to public service.

According to the leaders, her leadership style has promoted inclusivity, unity, and community empowerment, qualities they said are necessary for effective representation in Parliament.

"Her track record speaks for itself. She understands the challenges facing ordinary wananchi because she has worked closely with communities. We are therefore endorsing her as our preferred candidate for the Nyali parliamentary seat," said another speaker.

The gathering further resolved to mobilize support across the constituency to rally behind Chief Oginga's potential candidature, describing her as a leader capable of advancing development, youth empowerment, women's inclusion, and economic opportunities for residents.

The leaders also linked their endorsement to the political ideals championed by ODM leader Raila Odinga, saying Chief Oginga embodies the values of social justice, empowerment, and people-centered leadership.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Pauline Oginga expressed gratitude for the confidence shown in her by members of the community.

"I am deeply humbled by your support and encouragement. My focus has always been serving the people diligently and contributing to the growth and development of our communities. I appreciate your trust and will continue working for the benefit of all residents," she said.

She called on residents to remain united and work together towards the development and prosperity of Nyali Constituency.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has called on education leaders to strengthen support systems for learners in order to curb extreme behaviour and build a safer, more supportive school environment.

Speaking earlier today at the 49th Annual National Conference of the Kenya Secondary School Heads Association (KESSHA) in Mombasa, Governor Nassir urged Members of Parliament and other stakeholders in the education sector to create an environment where every learner has the opportunity to thrive.

The Governor underscored the importance of collaborative leadership between teachers, parents and all education stakeholders, saying meaningful progress in schools will only be achieved through a united and proactive approach.

He stressed the need to champion teacher empowerment and place greater focus on students’ mental health, noting that interventions must be preventive rather than reactive.

It is our duty to provide a learning environment that is ideal for both the current and future generations,” said Governor Nassir.

Nassir also highlighted the County Government of Mombasa’s commitment to improving student welfare through its flagship “No Child Left Behind” programme, which provides meals to secondary school learners across the county.

He revealed that 76.9 per cent of students in Mombasa have already benefited from the initiative, with the county now working towards achieving 100 per cent coverage.

The Governor added that the county is continuously analysing data to strengthen engagement with learners and improve interventions that support their wellbeing, discipline and academic success.

“We are dissecting the data to see how we can improve our engagement with our students,” he added.

He reaffirmed that investing in learners through nutrition, mental wellness and supportive school systems remains key to shaping a stronger generation and a more resilient education sector.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir has renewed his call for the implementation of an Open Skies policy, arguing that enhanced international air connectivity is critical to unlocking the full economic potential of the coastal city and positioning it as a leading hub for trade, tourism, logistics, and the Blue Economy.

Speaking at the Omani Association Conference organized by the Istiqama Muslim Charitable Association with the support of the Oman Embassy, Governor Nassir said Mombasa cannot achieve its economic ambitions without significantly expanding direct international flight connections.

The Governor, who has been a vocal advocate for increased international access through Moi International Airport, noted that despite Mombasa's strategic position as East and Central Africa's gateway to global trade, the city remains underserved in terms of direct international flights.

"Mombasa is the economic gateway to East and Central Africa, home to the region's largest seaport and one of the continent's most strategic coastal economies. Yet while Zanzibar enjoys direct air connections to approximately 35 destinations across 20 countries, Mombasa is connected to only about 18 destinations in nine countries," Nassir said.

He pointed out that Zanzibar currently records more than 100 scheduled passenger flights daily compared to Mombasa's approximately 31 flights, a gap he said translates into lost economic opportunities for the county.

"This disparity represents thousands of tourists, investors, conference delegates and business travellers who could be landing directly in our city every week. These are opportunities that we must aggressively pursue if we are to grow our economy and create jobs for our people," he added.

Governor Nassir emphasized that his push for an Open Skies policy is rooted in the need to attract more investment, increase tourism arrivals, and strengthen Mombasa's role as a regional commercial hub.

"An Open Skies policy is not merely an aviation matter; it is an economic imperative. Every additional direct flight creates opportunities for trade, tourism, investment and employment," he said.

The Governor noted that Mombasa's future growth depends on its ability to attract direct flights from key markets across Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia, saying improved connectivity would complement ongoing investments in infrastructure, logistics, and the Blue Economy.

"As we position Mombasa as the premier Blue Economy, logistics and tourism hub of the Western Indian Ocean, we must aggressively expand direct international connectivity. If we can open our ports to the world, we must also open our skies," Nassir stated.

Over the years, the Governor has repeatedly urged national authorities and aviation stakeholders to prioritize policies that make it easier for international airlines to operate direct routes to Mombasa, arguing that the city's economic potential cannot be fully realized while travellers continue to rely heavily on Nairobi as the primary gateway into Kenya.

He maintained that increasing direct international flights would not only benefit the tourism sector but would also attract multinational businesses, conference tourism, investors, and exporters seeking easier access to the coastal region.

"The future prosperity of Mombasa depends on our ability to connect directly with the world. Better connectivity means more visitors, more business, more jobs and greater economic growth for our people," he said.

His latest remarks come as Mombasa County continues to market itself as a leading destination for tourism, maritime trade, investment, and the Blue Economy, while seeking stronger economic

Car & General (Kenya) PLC today held its 86th Annual General Meeting for the financial year ended 31 December 2025, where shareholders approved key resolutions reflecting the Group’s strong financial performance and strategic direction.

Shareholders approved a final dividend of KSh 3.12 per share, payable in June 2026, bringing total dividends for the year to KSh 3.42 per share, including the interim dividend.

The meeting also approved the discontinuation of the Employee Share Ownership Plan (ESOP) following a comprehensive review.

The Company will now explore more effective and modern employee reward frameworks better aligned with its performance strategy, talent retention priorities, and evolving workforce needs.

The Group reported a robust financial performance, with turnover increasing by 21% to KSh 25 billion, supported by improved market conditions and growth across product lines.

In Kenya, the motorcycle (boda boda) segment rebounded strongly, with average monthly sales rising to 8,000 units, up from 4,600 in 2024. Profit after tax increased to KSh 2.4 billion, while EBITDA grew by 153% to KSh 3.8 billion.

Commenting on the results, Group CEO Vijay Gidoomal said, “Our regional footprint continues to strengthen, with Uganda and Tanzania accounting for over 56% of total Group sales. At the same time, our commitment to sustainable mobility is gaining momentum, including the rollout of electric two-wheelers supported by over 350 battery swap stations in Kenya and Uganda through strategic partnerships.”

He added, “As we mark 90 years of Car & General in 2026, we remain focused on strong fundamentals - driving efficiency, protecting market leadership, investing in digital transformation, and creating long-term value guided by our Triple P bottom line: People, Planet and Profit. We are accelerating our focus on electric two and three-wheelers, as well as CNG and LPG three-wheelers in Kenya and Tanzania.”

Liboi doesn't just write pretty songs about pretty places. "Nairobi," her new single out today, is something harder and more honest than that - a reckoning with what it means to live, hustle, cope, and still find fragile moments of hope in one of Africa's most electric and demanding cities.

"Nairobi honestly was a cry," she says. "Without even realizing it, our priorities begin shifting. We become more individualistic, more disconnected, more exhausted. This song came from sitting with that grief."

That grief has texture. Built on Liboi's signature contemporary production, "Nairobi" pulls listeners into the emotional undercurrent of a city running at full speed -capitalism, corruption, inequality, and the slow erosion of freedom of expression.

This is a song about what it costs to keep moving when the system wasn't built for you to rest.

The single serves as the opening statement of her forthcoming album, Hatua, and it lands like a mission brief: here is the world we're entering. Here is what's at stake.

For producers and writers, Liboi is the rare artist who operates at the intersection of personal confession and social portraiture. Raised in Kenya's informal settlements, she brings lived authority to the subjects she explores -systemic injustice, collective grief, and the fragile hope of community.

Her catalogue, including State of Being, Safari, Uhambo, and Nani Alisema, alongside her acclaimed multidisciplinary production Whispers of Power, has established her as one of East Africa's most creatively ambitious voices — a songwriter with range, specificity, and something real to say.

She has performed across Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Germany, Belgium, Brazil, and Pakistan. She plays what she means. She means everything she plays.

"'Nairobi' welcomes reflection on identity, growth, and collective healing," she says. "It highlights what many of us are experiencing right now."

"Nairobi" is just the beginning. Hatua is coming -be among the first to experience the journey.

Global superstars and long-time collaborators: Yemi Alade and Kenya’s international hitmaker Bien, have once again reunited to release “Don’t Be Shy” – what may be one of their best collaborations yet.

The irresistible new single, released via Effyzzie Music, serves as the first taste of Yemi Alade’s forthcoming self-titled album, IT’S YEMI ALADE, set for release this year. Stream the single here.

Produced by acclaimed Nigerian producer De Yaso, alongside Kenyan producer Kobby Worldwide, “Don’t Be Shy” is a sweet, sensual and infectious Afro-R&B track infused with the irresistible rhythms of Kompa.

Capturing the magnetic pull between two people unafraid to surrender to their feelings, the song is a mood and a vibe.

With its smooth melodies, undeniable chemistry and dance-inducing groove, “Don’t Be Shy” effortlessly pulls listeners onto the dancefloor while offering an exciting glimpse into the next chapter of Yemi Alade’s next music project and era.

Speaking on the release, Yemi Alade shares: “I have always loved the soulfulness of Bien’s music and working with him on this record was so easy. Music has always been about emotion and connection for me. And I feel like in “Don’t Be Shy” we are both being playful, confident and honest, in expressing feelings when you’re into someone. It’s a great jam to dance to, but also warm and intimate. I hope you all love it as much as we do.”

Bien adds: “Working with Yemi was an incredible experience because the energy felt natural from the beginning. “Don’t Be Shy” is about confidence, chemistry and enjoying the moment. We want you to just feel good and loosen up when this song comes on.”

Bien and Yemi Alade’s creative journey traces back to Yemi Alade and Sauti Sol’s classic collaboration “Africa”, followed by a series of creative collaborations including Yemi Alade’s Swahili version of “Nagode” and Yemi Alade’s take on Bien’s “All My Enemies Are Suffering” that was included into the single’s Remix EP.

On “Don’t Be Shy” the stars are bringing renewed creative energy that marries their undeniable chemistry that feels both fresh and familiar.

Blending Yemi’s signature charisma with Bien’s smooth vocals, “Don’t Be Shy” is a celebration of African musical excellence and a reminder of why these two artists remain among the continent’s most beloved stars. 

Don’t Be Shy” serves as the first glimpse into Yemi Alade’s forthcoming self-titled album, IT’S YEMI ALADE, her eleventh music project to date, arriving ahead of a major showcase in Paris, France.

If “Don’t Be Shy” is anything to go by, anticipation for IT’S YEMI ALADE is only set to soar.

With each release, Yemi continues to cement her status as one of Africa’s most prolific songwriters, electrifying performers and enduring cultural icons.

Her unwavering commitment to originality, deep connection to her heritage and unapologetic celebration of the African continent remain at the heart of her artistry, inspiring audiences across the globe while continuing to elevate African music on the world stage.

Mombasa County is set to launch a groundbreaking nutrition support program targeting expectant mothers as part of its broader efforts to improve maternal and child healthcare across the county.

The initiative, spearheaded by Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir's administration, will provide nutritious meals and dietary support to pregnant women attending public health facilities.

The program aims to address maternal nutrition challenges, reduce pregnancy-related complications, and contribute to healthier pregnancies and safer deliveries.

The rollout comes on the heels of significant investments by the county government in the digitization of healthcare services, a move that has transformed patient management and service delivery across public health facilities.

According to Governor Nassir, the new program reflects the county's commitment to preventive healthcare and ensuring that vulnerable groups receive the support they need.

"The health of a mother directly impacts the health and future of a child. Through this program, we are investing in healthier families by ensuring expectant mothers receive the nutritional support they need throughout their pregnancy," said Governor Nassir.

He noted that proper nutrition during pregnancy plays a critical role in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates while enhancing the overall well-being of mothers and newborns.

The county's digitized healthcare system will play a central role in the implementation of the initiative.

Through the system, healthcare workers will be able to identify beneficiaries, track maternal health indicators, monitor attendance at antenatal clinics, and ensure efficient distribution of nutritional support.

"Technology has enabled us to improve healthcare planning and service delivery. By integrating this nutrition program into our digital health platform, we will be able to reach those who need support most while ensuring transparency and accountability," the governor added.

County health officials have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a major milestone in strengthening maternal healthcare services.

Mombasa County Executive Committee Member for Health said the program is expected to complement existing maternal health interventions, including antenatal care services, immunization programs, and community health outreach initiatives.

"Many pregnancy-related complications are linked to poor nutrition. This initiative will help improve maternal health outcomes and contribute to the birth of healthier babies. It is a proactive intervention that addresses healthcare challenges before they become emergencies," the health official said.

Once implemented, the nutrition support program is expected to further strengthen Mombasa's healthcare system and position the county as a leader in innovative maternal health services.

The initiative forms part of Governor Nassir's broader healthcare reform agenda, which focuses on expanding access to quality healthcare, embracing digital solutions, and improving the overall well-being of Mombasa residents.

Maritime security experts, policymakers, researchers, and regional stakeholders have called for stronger collaboration between governments, research institutions, and maritime agencies to address emerging security threats in the Western Indian Ocean (WIO).

The call was made during the launch of the Regional Maritime Security Architecture (RMSA) Policy Brief, an initiative of the Indian Ocean Commission (IOC) developed in partnership with the University of Oxford.

The event held in Mombasa brought together maritime governance experts, security practitioners, academics, and development partners to discuss the future of maritime security cooperation in the region.

Speaking during the launch, Kenya Navy Fleet Commander Brigadier Mohamed Shemote described the Western Indian Ocean as a region of immense strategic significance, serving as a critical artery for global trade, energy flows, and economic development while supporting the livelihoods of millions of people through the blue economy.

However, he noted that the maritime space continues to face complex challenges, including piracy, illicit trafficking, illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, marine pollution, and the growing impacts of climate change.

"These threats transcend national boundaries and require coordinated regional responses," said Brigadier Shemote.

He commended the Indian Ocean Commission for its leadership in advancing maritime security cooperation across the region, noting that the establishment of the Regional Maritime Security Architecture has strengthened maritime domain awareness and improved coordination of operations at sea through regional information-sharing mechanisms.

"A notable achievement has been the establishment of the Regional Maritime Security Architecture. Through the Regional Maritime Information Fusion Centre in Madagascar and the Regional Coordination of Operations Centre in Seychelles, supported by national maritime information-sharing centres, the Architecture has strengthened maritime domain awareness and improved coordination of operations at sea," he said.

The Fleet Commander noted that for Kenya, the RMSA represents more than a security framework, describing it as a practical expression of a shared commitment to safeguarding maritime resources, protecting the blue economy, and promoting peace, stability, and prosperity across the Western Indian Ocean.

The newly launched policy brief highlights the achievements of the RMSA in strengthening regional coordination and collective responses to illicit activities at sea while identifying priorities for its future sustainability and strategic development.

Brigadier Shemote further emphasized the importance of research-informed maritime governance, noting that the rapidly evolving maritime environment requires policies and institutions that can adapt to emerging risks and opportunities.

"Evidence-based analysis enables policymakers and practitioners to better understand emerging risks, identify opportunities, and develop sustainable solutions," he said, while applauding the collaboration between the University of Oxford and the Indian Ocean Commission in producing the policy brief.

Brigadier Shemote reaffirmed Kenya's commitment to supporting regional maritime security initiatives and called on stakeholders to continue investing in cooperation, knowledge, and innovation to build a secure and prosperous maritime future for the Western Indian Ocean.

"We remain fully committed to supporting this shared vision," he said.

On her part Professor Kate Sullivan de Estrada, a researcher at the University of Oxford, said the RMSA Policy Brief demonstrates the value of long-term partnerships between researchers and policymakers in addressing complex maritime security challenges.

She noted that effective policy solutions emerge not from isolated academic work, but through sustained engagement, trust, and collaboration between scholars and practitioners.

"The research is not missing; it is simply not sitting where we would conventionally expect to find it," she said, explaining that the policy brief is the product of years of dialogue, observation, and cooperation between researchers and maritime security practitioners across the region.

She emphasized that understanding is produced through relationships and shared experiences rather than detached analysis alone. 

Professor Sullivan noted that the brief reflects a collective effort to understand and present the Regional Maritime Security Architecture from a regional perspective, bringing together academic expertise and practical experience.

According to her, such collaborations help ensure that maritime security policies are informed by local realities and regional priorities. 

She further argued that research on maritime security should begin with the concerns and experiences of countries within the Western Indian Ocean rather than relying solely on frameworks developed elsewhere.

"Collaborative research creates the possibility of beginning with regional concerns, experiences and projects," she said, adding that engaged research-policy partnerships help generate better questions, richer understanding, and more regionally grounded knowledge. 

Mombasa County has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the ocean and coastal ecosystems through enhanced solid waste management, improved sewer infrastructure, and sustainable environmental initiatives.

Speaking during the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, Governor Abdulswamad Sharif Nassir said the county is implementing long-term measures aimed at reducing pollution, safeguarding marine biodiversity, and promoting a sustainable blue economy.

Governor Nassir noted that as a coastal city whose economy, culture, and livelihoods are closely linked to the ocean, Mombasa has a responsibility to lead by example in environmental conservation.

"Protecting our ocean begins with how we manage our waste on land. Every piece of waste that is properly collected, recycled, or disposed of responsibly is a step towards preserving our marine ecosystems for future generations," said Governor Nassir.

The Governor highlighted ongoing efforts to modernize waste management systems, improve waste collection services, expand recycling programs, and encourage responsible waste disposal among residents and businesses.

He revealed that the county is making significant progress toward implementing an integrated waste management project that will strengthen environmental protection and help curb pollution entering the ocean.

"We are investing in sustainable solutions that address the root causes of environmental degradation. Our goal is to build a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient Mombasa where economic growth goes hand in hand with environmental stewardship," he added.

Governor Nassir emphasized that effective waste management cannot be achieved by government alone, calling for stronger partnerships between public institutions, communities, development partners, and the private sector.

"Environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility. Success will require ownership, innovation, and collaboration from all stakeholders. Together, we can create lasting solutions that protect our environment and improve the quality of life for our people," he said.

The Governor also underscored the urgent need to improve sewer management infrastructure to prevent the discharge of untreated waste into the ocean, warning that marine pollution poses a threat to both public health and the blue economy.

"Healthy oceans support healthy communities. Strengthening our sewer systems is not only an environmental priority but also a public health and economic necessity," he noted.

Mombasa County continues to champion marine conservation efforts through initiatives aimed at reducing marine pollution, protecting coastal habitats, and promoting sustainable environmental practices.

Governor Nassir reiterated that the county remains committed to implementing practical and long-term solutions that will secure a cleaner environment, healthier communities, and a thriving blue economy for generations to come.

"The future of Mombasa is inseparable from the future of our ocean. The actions we take today will determine the legacy we leave for tomorrow," he concluded.

Kenya and the Republic of Korea have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Recognition of Certificates under the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), a move expected to unlock greater employment opportunities for Kenyan seafarers in the global maritime industry.

The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the 11th Our Ocean Conference currently underway in Mombasa, bringing together governments, maritime stakeholders and ocean conservation experts from around the world.

Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Hassan Joho, who witnessed the signing ceremony, described the agreement as a major milestone in strengthening maritime cooperation between Kenya and South Korea.

“This has been a journey of sustained engagement, consultations and collaboration between our two countries. Through open dialogue and the goodwill demonstrated by both Kenya and South Korea, we have reached an important milestone that will benefit our maritime sector,” said Joho.

The STCW recognition agreement establishes a framework for the mutual recognition of maritime certificates issued by the two countries, enabling qualified seafarers to have their credentials recognized across jurisdictions.

According to the Cabinet Secretary, the agreement goes beyond diplomatic cooperation and presents tangible benefits for Kenyan seafarers seeking employment in international shipping and maritime industries.

“For Kenyan seafarers, this is more than just a signed document. It means greater recognition of their qualifications, more access to international opportunities, and ultimately more jobs,” he said.

Joho noted that the government remains committed to creating opportunities for young people through the blue economy while positioning Kenya as a competitive maritime nation.

“Our commitment remains clear: creating pathways for our youth, strengthening Kenya’s position in the global maritime industry, and ensuring that the blue economy works for our people,” he stated.

He added that the agreement reflects the growing partnership between Kenya and South Korea in advancing maritime development, skills recognition and international cooperation.

"This achievement reflects our shared commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation and expanding opportunities for seafarers from both nations,” Joho said.

The signing comes at a time when Kenya is seeking to expand its maritime workforce and leverage opportunities within the blue economy sector, which the government has identified as a key pillar for economic growth, job creation and sustainable development.

The 11th Our Ocean Conference, being hosted in Mombasa from June 16 to 18, marks the first time the global event is taking place on African soil and is expected to generate commitments on ocean conservation, maritime security, sustainable fisheries and blue economy investments.