U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Visit Kenya to Strengthen Diplomatic Ties

Nairobi, May 8, 2025 —
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has confirmed plans to visit Kenya in the coming weeks, signaling renewed efforts to bolster diplomatic relations and strategic cooperation between the two countries. The visit follows a previously postponed trip due to scheduling conflicts.

According to a statement from the U.S. Department of State, Secretary Rubio’s visit will focus on enhancing bilateral relations in areas such as regional security, trade, democratic governance, and climate resilience.

“Kenya remains a vital partner in East Africa. This visit will reaffirm our shared commitments and explore new avenues for cooperation in security, economic development, and global challenges,” said Secretary Rubio.

The planned trip is expected to include meetings with President William Ruto, Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua, and key business and civil society leaders. Discussions will likely cover ongoing U.S. support for Kenya’s counterterrorism efforts, regional peace initiatives in the Horn of Africa, and progress under the U.S.-Kenya Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP).

Kenya is considered one of Washington’s most stable allies in Africa, with longstanding ties dating back to independence. In recent years, the two nations have deepened their engagement through joint military operations, health partnerships, and collaborative infrastructure projects.

Secretary Rubio’s visit is seen as part of a broader U.S. diplomatic effort to reinforce alliances on the continent amid growing global competition for influence in Africa.

More details about the itinerary and key agreements are expected to be released closer to the date of the visit.

Kenyan Schools Reopen for Second Term Amid Rising Financial Strain on Parents

Nairobi, Kenya — April 28, 2025

Primary and secondary schools across Kenya reopened today for the second academic term, but the excitement of returning to class has been overshadowed by growing concerns over financial strain among parents.

Thousands of students reported back to school nationwide, while parents grappled with escalating costs associated with education. Besides regular tuition and boarding fees, many have complained about additional charges that they claim are illegal or excessive, especially during the admission of new students.

Speaking to reporters outside a Nairobi school, Mary Wanjiku, a mother of two, said, “We were asked to pay extra for development funds, activity fees, and even a so-called ‘desk maintenance fee’ — none of which were on the original fee structure. It’s becoming unbearable.”

Education stakeholders have warned that such practices could undermine the government’s efforts to provide affordable and accessible education under the Free Primary Education (FPE) and subsidized secondary school programs.

The Ministry of Education issued a statement reiterating that no public school is permitted to impose unauthorized levies without prior approval from the ministry. Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu emphasized that action would be taken against schools found exploiting parents.

“No child should be sent home for failing to pay extra charges that have not been approved,” the statement read. “We encourage parents to report such cases immediately to county education offices.”

Meanwhile, headteachers argue that the rising cost of operations, including utilities and infrastructure maintenance, has forced many schools to find alternative funding sources. “The capitation from the government often delays, and when it comes, it is insufficient to run a school effectively,” said one principal from Kiambu County, requesting anonymity.

Despite the financial hurdles, the reopening day saw high student turnout, and many schools resumed lessons without major disruptions. However, education experts warn that unless the financial concerns are urgently addressed, the strain on households could lead to higher dropout rates, especially among learners from disadvantaged backgrounds.

With the second term traditionally packed with national activities — including sports competitions and mock exams for candidates — schools are bracing for a busy season ahead.

“Echoes of War” Silenced: Butere Girls Barred from Performing Powerful Play on Governance

Nairobi, Kenya – A wave of disappointment and debate swept across Kenya’s arts and education communities after Butere Girls High School was barred from performing their highly anticipated play, “Echoes of War,” during the 2025 Kenya National Drama and Film Festival.

The play, which tackled themes of bad governance, political greed, and the manipulation of youth, had already gained national attention for its bold storytelling and poignant message. However, just hours before the performance, the school was informed by officials that the play had been pulled from the festival lineup.

“Too Political”?

While no official reason was provided at the time, sources within the drama festival committee hinted at concerns that the content of “Echoes of War” was “too political” and might offend certain figures in government. The decision sparked backlash from students, educators, and artists who saw the move as a clear case of censorship and an attack on creative freedom.

A drama teacher from the school, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed frustration:

“The students worked tirelessly on this piece. It was well-researched, artistic, and relevant. To be silenced at the national stage sends the wrong message — that truth-telling through art has limits depending on who is listening.”

Students Disheartened, Public Outcry Grows

The Butere Girls cast, many of whom were preparing for their final performance of the season, were reportedly heartbroken. Videos of the students in tears and embracing one another backstage began circulating on social media, leading to an outpouring of support from Kenyans across the country.

Many took to X (formerly Twitter), using the hashtag #LetThemPerform to condemn the censorship and express solidarity with the students. Prominent artists, activists, and politicians have also weighed in, urging the Ministry of Education to uphold freedom of expression in the arts, especially in learning institutions.

A Legacy of Bold Storytelling

This is not the first time Butere Girls High School has drawn national attention through drama. In 2013, their performance of “Shackles of Doom” by Cleophas Malala was briefly banned for its raw commentary on tribalism and inequality — only for the decision to be reversed after public pressure.

The school has long been known for using the arts to spark critical conversation and address real issues affecting society.

What Next?

As of now, the school has not indicated whether it will appeal the decision or seek alternative venues to stage the play. However, there are growing calls for “Echoes of War” to be performed publicly, outside the festival setting, perhaps in partnership with theaters or civil society organizations.

In an era when the youth are increasingly aware, vocal, and engaged in national matters, the silencing of Butere Girls serves as a stark reminder of the tension between artistic expression and political sensitivity in Kenya.