Nairobi, Kenya – May 5, 2025 – In a move that brings cautious optimism to consumers, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announced a marginal reduction in fuel prices, providing slight relief amid Kenya’s ongoing economic challenges.
Latest Fuel Price Adjustments
Super Petrol: Decreased by KSh 2.50 per liter, now retailing at KSh 194.68 in Nairobi.
Diesel: Reduced by KSh 1.80 per liter, dropping to KSh 179.53.
Kerosene: Cut by KSh 3.20, now priced at KSh 168.45 per liter.
The adjustments, which took effect at midnight, come amid fluctuating global oil prices and a slightly stronger shilling against the US dollar.
Mixed Reactions from Consumers
While the price cuts offer some respite, many Kenyans argue that the reductions are too small to make a meaningful difference, especially with the high cost of living.
“A drop of two shillings is better than nothing, but fuel is still too expensive. Transport costs and food prices remain unbearable,” said John Mwangi, a matatu driver in Nairobi.
Government Under Pressure to Stabilize Prices
The reduction follows weeks of public outcry over soaring fuel costs, which have driven up the prices of essential goods and services. Economists warn that without further interventions, any relief could be short-lived, particularly if global oil markets become volatile.
EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo attributed the adjustment to a slight dip in international crude prices but cautioned that external factors, including geopolitical tensions and exchange rate fluctuations, could influence future pricing.
Will the Relief Last?
Analysts suggest that Kenya’s fuel pricing structure remains vulnerable to external shocks, and long-term solutions—such as diversifying energy sources and reducing reliance on imports—are needed for sustained stability.
For now, motorists and businesses welcome the small reprieve but remain wary of future increases.
Nairobi, Kenya – May 5, 2025 – Kenya is facing one of its worst flood disasters in decades, with relentless heavy rains triggering deadly floods that have claimed over 200 lives and displaced thousands across the country. The government has declared a state of emergency in the hardest-hit regions, deploying military helicopters and disaster response teams to rescue stranded families.
Widespread Devastation
The floods have submerged homes, destroyed roads, and cut off entire communities, particularly in Nairobi, Machakos, and Kisumu. In the capital, informal settlements along riverbanks have been swept away, leaving families homeless. Major highways, including sections of the Nairobi-Mombasa Road, are impassable, disrupting transport and supply chains.
Military Deployed for Rescue Missions
The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) have been mobilized to conduct air and ground rescue operations, evacuating trapped residents from rooftops and flooded villages. Emergency shelters have been set up in schools and community halls, but aid agencies warn of overcrowding and a looming humanitarian crisis.
Government Pledges KSh 1 Billion Relief Fund
President William Ruto has announced a KSh 1 billion flood mitigation and resettlement package, promising urgent aid to affected families. However, critics argue that the response has been slow, with many displaced citizens still lacking food, clean water, and medical supplies.
Schools Closed Indefinitely in High-Risk Zones
With forecasts predicting more rain, the Ministry of Education has extended school closures in flood-prone counties until further notice. Parents and teachers have raised concerns over disrupted learning, especially for students preparing for national exams.
Calls for Long-Term Solutions
Environmental experts blame the crisis on poor urban planning, deforestation, and inadequate drainage systems. Activists are urging the government to invest in sustainable infrastructure to prevent future disasters.
As Kenya battles this unfolding tragedy, solidarity efforts are growing, with volunteers and NGOs stepping in to provide relief. Yet, with more rainfall expected, the worst may not be over.
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.
Beijing, China – April 23, 2025 — Kenya has clinched a significant economic win following the signing of a Ksh.126 billion investment agreement with China, marking a major step in deepening bilateral relations between the two countries. The deal was finalized during President William Ruto’s state visit to Beijing, where he led a high-level delegation of government and business leaders.
The multibillion-shilling package includes a series of infrastructure, energy, and industrial development projects aimed at accelerating Kenya’s economic transformation and job creation efforts.
💼 Key Areas of Investment
The agreement covers:
Transport and Infrastructure: Upgrades to key road networks and railway systems to improve logistics and trade within Kenya and across the East African region.
Energy Projects: Expansion of Kenya’s renewable energy capacity, with investments in solar and wind energy expected to boost access to sustainable power.
Manufacturing and Industrial Parks: Support for local industries, including special economic zones that will attract foreign and domestic investors.
Digital Economy Initiatives: Collaborative projects on fintech, digital infrastructure, and e-governance, as Kenya continues its transition to a more digitized economy.
🇰🇪 A Boost for Kenya’s Development Agenda
President Ruto hailed the agreement as a “milestone in Kenya’s economic journey,” emphasizing its alignment with his administration’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). He reiterated his commitment to partnerships that offer tangible benefits to Kenyans, particularly in terms of employment, technology transfer, and inclusive growth.
“This investment will not only expand our infrastructure and manufacturing capacity but will also empower our people by creating new jobs and opening up markets,” said Ruto during the signing ceremony.
🇨🇳 Strengthening Ties with China
China continues to be one of Kenya’s top trading and development partners. This latest deal signals ongoing confidence in Kenya’s stability, economic vision, and regional leadership. It also reflects China’s growing footprint across Africa as part of its broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
🌍 What This Means for the Region
With Kenya strategically positioned as a regional hub, the investment is expected to enhance East Africa’s integration, trade efficiency, and infrastructure resilience. It could also inspire other countries in the region to pursue similar cooperative frameworks with global partners.
Nairobi, Kenya – April 23, 2025 — Tensions between Kenya and Sudan have flared following a formal diplomatic protest lodged by the Sudanese government, accusing Kenyan President William Ruto of interfering in Sudan’s internal affairs. The letter, confirmed by Kenya’s Parliament on Tuesday, has raised regional concerns over sovereignty, mediation roles, and the fragile dynamics of East African diplomacy.
The Allegations
According to reports from Nairobi and Khartoum, the Sudanese government expressed strong disapproval of what it describes as “unwarranted and biased involvement” by President Ruto in Sudan’s ongoing internal conflict. The exact contents of the letter have not been made public, but sources within Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Committee say the protest centers on statements and actions taken by Ruto regarding Sudan’s peace process.
President Ruto has been vocal about the need for regional stability and has in the past expressed support for African-led solutions to conflicts like the civil unrest in Sudan. However, Sudanese authorities appear to interpret his recent involvement as partial and overreaching.
Kenya’s Response
Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged the receipt of the protest but maintained that President Ruto’s actions have been guided by Kenya’s long-standing commitment to regional peace and stability.
“Kenya’s role in Sudan is consistent with our regional obligations under the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the African Union,” a ministry spokesperson said. “We will continue to support peaceful dialogue in good faith.”
The issue is now before the Parliamentary Committee on Defence and Foreign Relations, which is expected to issue a formal response in the coming days.
Regional Implications
The diplomatic spat comes at a sensitive time for East Africa, where multiple nations are grappling with conflict, political transitions, and economic instability. Kenya has often positioned itself as a mediator in regional disputes, leveraging its relative stability and diplomatic reach.
Observers worry that Sudan’s strong reaction could jeopardize ongoing peace efforts in the region and complicate Kenya’s role as a neutral facilitator. It may also affect bilateral projects and trade relations between the two countries.
Sudan’s Internal Crisis
Sudan has been mired in internal conflict since the breakdown of a fragile power-sharing arrangement between military and civilian leaders in 2023. Attempts at negotiation have repeatedly faltered, with various factions accusing external actors of bias.
While President Ruto has advocated for African-led mediation efforts, Sudanese authorities now question Kenya’s impartiality—especially amid reports that Kenyan officials have met with opposition leaders and civil society groups linked to the resistance movement in Sudan.
What’s Next?
Diplomatic channels remain open, and both governments have signaled a willingness to avoid escalation. Analysts suggest that mediation by IGAD or the African Union may be needed to resolve the rift and refocus efforts on Sudan’s internal peace process.
For Kenya, this presents a test of its balancing act as both a regional leader and a neutral peace broker in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.
Beijing, China – April 23, 2025 — During a high-profile state visit to China, Kenyan President William Ruto delivered a bold and visionary appeal for a new world order, one that elevates the voices and interests of nations in the Global South. His remarks have sparked fresh debate on the future of global governance, economic equity, and geopolitical alignment.
Standing before Chinese leaders and international dignitaries, President Ruto urged for the restructuring of global financial and security systems, arguing that existing institutions no longer reflect the realities of an interconnected, multipolar world. He called on global powers to acknowledge and incorporate the perspectives of developing nations—particularly those across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
“The current global architecture was built for a world that no longer exists,” Ruto said. “We must reconstruct a system that is fair, inclusive, and responsive to the aspirations of the Global South.”
FILE PHOTO: Kenya’s President William Ruto speaks at a press conference after police officers shot protesters demonstrating against Kenya’s proposed finance bill 2024/2025 in Nairobi, Kenya, June 25, 2024. REUTERS/Monicah Mwangi/File Photo
Reforming the Global Financial Order
At the heart of Ruto’s address was a demand for sweeping reforms to financial institutions like the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. He criticized their governance structures as outdated and skewed toward the interests of the developed world.
Ruto proposed a model where African and other developing nations would have greater influence over funding decisions, credit terms, and development priorities. The current lending frameworks, he argued, often burden poor countries with unsustainable debt and little autonomy.
A New Security Framework
Beyond economics, Ruto called for a reimagining of international security structures. He pointed to the United Nations Security Council as emblematic of an era in need of change—an institution whose permanent membership has not evolved in decades despite major geopolitical shifts.
“Africa, home to 1.4 billion people and rising regional powers, cannot continue to be a spectator in decisions that affect global peace and stability,” Ruto stated.
Embracing South-South Solidarity
Ruto’s speech also highlighted the growing importance of South-South cooperation—strategic partnerships between developing countries. He encouraged Global South nations to deepen collaboration through trade, technology transfer, and mutual investment.
His visit culminated in the signing of multiple agreements with China, totaling over KSh 126 billion in new investments. These include infrastructure development, manufacturing, and green energy projects across Kenya.
A Diplomatic Pivot
President Ruto’s remarks signal a continued pivot in Kenya’s foreign policy—balancing traditional Western alliances with emerging partnerships across Asia and Latin America. Analysts see this as a move toward greater self-determination and a rejection of dependency models that have long defined Africa’s role on the world stage.
What’s Next?
Ruto’s call may mark a turning point in how developing nations engage with global power centers. As countries across the Global South rally around similar sentiments, the pressure on international institutions to evolve may intensify.
For Kenya, it reinforces the country’s position as a diplomatic leader in Africa and a growing force in shaping the global agenda.
In one of the most unusual wildlife trafficking cases in recent memory, two Belgian teenagers, a Vietnamese national, and a Kenyan accomplice have pleaded guilty to smuggling over 5,000 live queen ants through Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The operation was intercepted by customs officials and wildlife enforcement agents, who discovered the insects packed inside more than 2,200 modified test tubes hidden in the suspects’ luggage.
Among the species recovered were the Giant African Harvester Ants, which are considered ecologically vital to their native environments. Wildlife officials believe the ants were intended for sale to exotic pet collectors and amateur insect breeders in Europe and Asia, where rare queens can fetch significant sums online.
“This isn’t just a bizarre case—it’s a warning signal,” said an officer from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). “We’re seeing a shift in trafficking patterns. It’s no longer just about ivory, rhino horn, or pangolins. Now, traffickers are targeting species like ants, frogs, and beetles—creatures essential to ecosystems but not yet on many enforcement radars.”
Investigators say the suspects had been operating under the guise of entomological tourism, exploiting lax regulations around insect collection. The modified containers were fitted with ventilation holes and hydration gels, indicating a highly organized and methodical operation.
Environmental groups are sounding the alarm over what they call a new frontier in wildlife crime. Insects like ants play a crucial role in soil aeration, seed dispersal, and overall ecosystem balance—removing them disrupts natural systems in ways that can have long-term consequences.
“This case highlights how global demand for exotic pets and scientific specimens is outpacing regulation and enforcement,” said a spokesperson from WildlifeDirect, a Kenyan conservation organization. “We must update our laws and broaden our understanding of what ‘wildlife trafficking’ looks like in the 21st century.”
The four accused now await sentencing. Legal experts expect the case to spark legislative reviews, including proposals to expand Kenya’s definition of protected species and enhance monitoring at ports of entry.
A long-simmering land dispute in Nandi County has boiled over, as more than 100 local farmers from the Kimasas cooperative have occupied 350 acres of tea plantation land owned by Eastern Produce Kenya (EPK), a subsidiary of the UK-based Camellia Plc. The farmers claim the land was gifted to them nearly four decades ago but was never formally handed over.
The disputed parcel forms part of the vast tea-growing estates managed by EPK in Kenya’s Rift Valley. According to the Kimasas community, a total of 350 acres were promised to them in 1986 by previous estate managers. However, EPK insists that only 202 acres were officially allocated to the local group—an assertion now at the heart of a volatile and highly symbolic standoff.
“We are simply reclaiming what was promised to us,” said one of the protest leaders, who requested anonymity. “This land was meant to be our livelihood, and we’ve waited patiently for decades. Now, we are taking peaceful steps to get what’s rightfully ours.”
In response, EPK has maintained that it remains open to dialogue but considers the occupation illegal. The company has not yet pursued legal eviction but is said to be engaging both local and national authorities in efforts to defuse tensions.
This dispute goes beyond legal boundaries—it reflects the deeper historical injustices linked to colonial-era land ownership. During British rule, vast tracts of fertile land were allocated to foreign companies, often at the expense of indigenous communities. Even after Kenya’s independence in 1963, many of these arrangements remained largely untouched, fueling grievances that continue to fester today.
Legal analysts suggest that this case could set a significant precedent, especially as local communities across the country increasingly press for the return or redistribution of land they believe was unjustly taken.
“The Nandi case could become a turning point,” said a Nairobi-based land rights expert. “If the courts or government step in to recognize historic promises—even if informal—it might open the floodgates for similar claims nationwide.”
As tensions simmer, all eyes are now on how the government and judiciary will respond to this growing flashpoint—one that pits historical memory against legal documentation, and community rights against corporate interests.
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.
Nairobi, Kenya – In a bold move to improve national infrastructure and bolster regional trade, President William Ruto has announced the upcoming construction of a new dual carriageway that will stretch from Nairobi through Nakuru and Eldoret, all the way to the Malaba border town.
Set to break ground later in 2025, the multi-lane highway is poised to transform one of Kenya’s busiest and most economically vital transport corridors.
Strategic Upgrade for a Key Economic Artery
The proposed Nairobi-Nakuru-Eldoret-Malaba dual carriageway is expected to ease chronic traffic congestion along the Northern Corridor—a major trade route linking the port of Mombasa with inland East African nations such as Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“This project will not only cut travel times but also increase safety and efficiency for both commuters and cargo transporters,” President Ruto stated during a recent infrastructure summit. “It’s a vital part of our plan to position Kenya as a regional trade hub.”
Economic and Social Impact
The road upgrade is anticipated to provide a major boost to towns and cities along its path, enhancing connectivity and creating thousands of job opportunities during and after construction. Improved infrastructure could also stimulate investment in real estate, logistics, and tourism in counties such as Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, and Trans Nzoia.
Additionally, with Malaba being one of the busiest border crossings in East Africa, the improved access road is expected to streamline customs operations and increase the volume of goods moving across the Kenya-Uganda border.
Questions Around Funding and Implementation
While the announcement has been met with optimism, details on funding remain scarce. Analysts suggest the project may involve a public-private partnership (PPP) or financing from international lenders. The government is also expected to address potential challenges including land acquisition, displacement of residents, and environmental concerns.
An environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) will likely be conducted before major construction begins.
A Step Toward Vision 2030
The dual carriageway aligns with Kenya’s long-term development blueprint, Vision 2030, which emphasizes infrastructure development as a pillar for economic transformation. Once completed, it will stand as one of the most significant road investments in the country’s history.
As anticipation builds, stakeholders across the region are watching closely, hoping that the project lives up to its promise of improved mobility, trade facilitation, and regional integration.
by Bukeni Abdullatif
