by muckbivi83Harambee Stars Suffer 3-1 Defeat to Gambia in World Cup Qualifiers
The Harambee Stars endured a tough evening as they fell 3-1 to The Gambia in their latest FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier. The match, played on Friday night, highlighted both Kenya’s flashes of brilliance and costly defensive lapses that ultimately handed the home side all three points.
Kenya started the game with confidence, pushing forward with pace and testing Gambia’s defense in the opening minutes. The Stars broke the deadlock through [insert goal scorer if known], giving fans hope of a crucial away victory. However, the celebrations were short-lived as the Gambians quickly regrouped, equalizing before halftime with a well-taken strike.
In the second half, Gambia tightened their grip on the game. Despite spirited efforts from Michael Olunga and Kenya’s attacking line, the hosts capitalized on defensive errors, scoring two more goals to put the match beyond reach.
Head coach Engin Firat expressed disappointment at the result, stressing the need for sharper finishing and improved defensive organization if the Harambee Stars are to remain competitive in the qualifiers. “We created chances but failed to convert, while our mistakes at the back cost us. At this level, small errors get punished,” he said after the match.
The defeat is a major setback for Kenya, who were hoping to build momentum in the group stage. With more tough fixtures ahead, including clashes against heavyweight teams, the Harambee Stars will need to regroup quickly and learn from the loss.
Kenyan fans, while frustrated, continue to rally behind the team, urging the players to bounce back stronger in the upcoming fixtures. The next match will be a crucial test of resilience as the Stars look to keep their World Cup dream alive.
FKF Issues Warning to Kenyans About Fake Tickets Ahead of Kenya vs Gambia World Cup Qualifier
The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has raised alarm over the circulation of fake match tickets ahead of the highly anticipated Kenya vs Gambia 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier scheduled to be played in Nairobi this weekend.
In an official statement, FKF cautioned fans to be extra vigilant when purchasing tickets, noting that fraudsters are taking advantage of the hype surrounding the match to exploit unsuspecting supporters. The federation emphasized that only tickets bought through official platforms and authorized vendors will be valid at the stadium gates.
“We urge fans to avoid falling victim to conmen selling counterfeit tickets. Ensure that you only purchase your ticket from the official outlets announced by FKF,” the federation stated.
The Kenya vs Gambia clash is a crucial fixture in the World Cup qualifiers, with Harambee Stars hoping to secure maximum points as they push for a chance to appear in the global tournament. The match is expected to draw thousands of fans, creating a perfect opportunity for scammers to target desperate ticket buyers.
To enhance transparency and reduce fraud, FKF confirmed that the ticketing system will include digital verification at the gates. Security teams and match officials will also be on high alert to ensure that only genuine ticket holders gain entry into the stadium.
The federation further urged fans to report any suspicious activities related to ticket sales to the authorities or FKF’s official communication channels.
As anticipation builds, football lovers are encouraged to secure their tickets early, follow FKF updates on official platforms, and avoid last-minute purchases from street vendors.
Amorim Admits: ‘Something Has to Change’ After United’s Grimsby Humiliation
Shock exit from the League Cup: Manchester United were stunned by fourth-tier Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup second round, falling behind 2–0 in the first half but recovering to 2–2 before losing the marathon shootout 12–11
Unprecedented humiliation: It marked the first time in club history that United had been eliminated by a League Two side in this competition
Apologies to the fans: Amorim publicly expressed regret and apologized for a deeply flawed performance, calling it a sign of deeper issues within the squad
Something has to change.” He described the mood as a low point, admitting the result should represent a turning point. “Everything was wrong,” he said, criticizing the side’s lack of intensity and cohesion
Players “spoke really loud.” Amorim implied that the players’ performance—rather than words—revealed their mindset and commitment (or lack thereof)
Deeper systemic issues: He acknowledged this wasn’t about a single result, but a recurring problem since their 15th-place finish last season, noting that even with tactical tweaks, meaningful change can’t happen in just one summer
A Grand Farewell to CHAN 2024: East Africa’s Biggest Music Stars Take the Stage
This Saturday, August 30, 2025, Nairobi’s Kasarani Stadium will not only host the electrifying final between Madagascar and Morocco in the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) but also transform into a dazzling festival ground—with East Africa’s finest musical talents headlining the closing ceremony.
A Star-Studded Lineup to Celebrate the Region
The show-stopping entertainment will be led by:
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Savara (Kenya) – The celebrated former member of Sauti Sol, known not only for his soaring stage presence but also as a creative force behind the tournament’s official anthem, “Pamoja”, which he co-wrote and produced with Uganda’s Elijah Kitaka and Tanzania’s Phina
- Eddy Kenzo (Uganda) – A globally recognized artist and BET Award winner, whose high-octane performances and pan-African appeal promise to ignite the crowd
- Zuchu (Tanzania) – The Bongo Flava queen, famed for her soulful vocals and magnetic stage presence. Though her inclusion stirred conversation—given her earlier social media stance on collaborations with Kenyan artists her commitment to perform has heightened excitement across the region
- This ensemble of top-tier talent promises a closing ceremony that’s equal parts music festival and football finale, reinforcing the unifying power of art across East Africa
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What to Expect at Kasarani
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Epic Staging & Production
Organizers are pulling out all the stops: a specially constructed stage, state-of-the-art lighting, and a breathtaking fireworks display will turn the sports stadium into a sensory extravaganza lasting over four hours - A Symbol of Unity & Resilience
While co-hosts Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania exited early—Kenya falling in the quarter-finals to Madagascar via penalties—the musical lineup reinforces regional solidarity and celebrates collective achievement - Tickets in High Demand
With final match tickets nearly sold out, the atmosphere at Kasarani is charged not only with athletic tension but also with musical anticipation
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Beyond Football: It’s more than a match—it’s a grand cultural moment where sport and song converge.
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Regional Pride: Savara, Eddy Kenzo, and Zuchu symbolize the diverse yet harmonious artistic voices of Eastern Africa, celebrating creativity across borders.
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A Festival Within a Match: The tournament ends not just with a trophy lifted, but with a crescendo of beats, lights, and euphoria.
S&P Global Ratings Upgrades Kenya to “B” (Stable Outlook)
On August 22, 2025, S&P Global Ratings raised Kenya’s long-term sovereign rating from B- to B, maintaining a stable outlook
Easing of near-term external liquidity risks, underpinned by strong export performance and sizeable diaspora remittances
Foreign exchange reserves climbed to a record US $11.2 billion by July 2025, up from about US $6.6 billion at the end of 2023
Eurobond operations: A US $1.5 billion issuance in February 2025, alongside a buy-back, significantly cut near-term Eurobond repayments—from US $300 million to US $108 million annually over 2025–2027
Improved domestic funding conditions: The Central Bank of Kenya cut its policy rate by 350 basis points since August 2024, bringing it down to 9.5% by August 2025. This helped reduce 91-day Treasury bill yields from 16% (July 2024) to about 8% (July 2025)
Narrowing current account deficit: From 2.6% of GDP in 2023 to 1.3% in 2024
Additional note: The short-term sovereign rating was affirmed at B, while the transfer and convertibility assessment was upgraded from B to B+, signaling better confidence in Kenya’s currency and capital flow dynamics
In Summary
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S&P upgraded Kenya to “B” with a stable outlook on August 22, 2025, citing improved liquidity, robust reserves, and successful debt operations.
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Moody’s improved the outlook to “positive” earlier in January 2025, though the rating remains Caa1.
This signals renewed investor confidence as Kenya navigates liquidity pressures, though maintaining progress will require continued fiscal reform and debt management.
Oparanya and Mbadi Ordered to Face Senate Committee Over Missed Summons
Cooperatives and MSMEs Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya and his Treasury counterpart John Mbadi have been directed to appear before the Senate Committee on Labour and Social Welfare this Wednesday after skipping earlier summons.
The two Cabinet Secretaries are expected to shed light on critical matters affecting the cooperative sector, small businesses, and broader economic welfare. Senators expressed frustration over their failure to attend previous sittings, terming it a show of disregard for parliamentary oversight.
According to sources within the committee, the lawmakers want Oparanya and Mbadi to explain government plans on funding MSMEs, cooperative reforms, and measures to cushion workers and businesses from the harsh economic environment. The senators argue that without accountability and clarity from the executive, many Kenyans depending on small businesses and cooperatives for survival will continue to suffer.
Committee Chairpersons have warned that continued failure to appear could trigger more serious consequences, including motions of censure.
This summons comes at a time when Kenyans are grappling with a tough economic climate, with rising unemployment and complaints from small traders about limited access to affordable credit. The session is expected to be heated, as senators push for answers on how the government intends to deliver on its pledges to support job creation, cooperative growth, and MSME financing.
If Oparanya and Mbadi honour the summons this time, their appearance could provide crucial updates on the government’s economic recovery agenda and shed light on whether the much-talked-about support funds for small enterprises are reaching the intended beneficiaries.
Murkomen Warns Gachagua Against Disrupting Peace in Nairobi Ahead of Return from U.S.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has issued a stern warning to Democracy for Citizen Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua ahead of his highly anticipated return from the United States on Thursday.
Speaking during a press briefing in Nairobi, Murkomen cautioned the former deputy president against any attempts to destabilize peace and security in the capital, noting that government agencies have already put measures in place to maintain law and order.
“Nairobi is a city of all Kenyans. We will not allow anyone, regardless of their political position, to disrupt normalcy or incite violence. Any individual planning to cause chaos should be aware that the law will take its course,” Murkomen said.
Gachagua’s return has sparked speculation of a grand political reception organized by his supporters, some of whom are reportedly planning a march to the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). This has raised concerns over possible confrontations with security forces and disruptions to city operations.
Murkomen further urged political leaders to exercise restraint and responsibility, emphasizing that Kenya’s democracy must be safeguarded through peaceful engagement, not street battles.
“We respect the right to assemble and associate, but that must happen within the law. The people of Nairobi should not be inconvenienced or put at risk because of selfish political interests,” he added.
The CS’s remarks come amid heightened political tensions, with analysts suggesting that Gachagua’s U.S. trip and subsequent return could mark the beginning of a new political strategy ahead of 2027. His supporters, however, maintain that they are simply welcoming back their party leader and former deputy president.
As Nairobi awaits Gachagua’s homecoming, the government’s position remains clear: security agencies will be on high alert to prevent any breach of peace.
Former Jubilee Secretary General Raphael Tuju Resigns After Six Years
Former Jubilee Party Secretary General Raphael Tuju has officially resigned from the outfit after serving in the powerful position for six years.
In a letter dated August 19, Tuju reflected on his political journey within Jubilee, highlighting the moments he shared during the party’s rise to power under former President Uhuru Kenyatta. He noted that his tenure allowed him to witness both the triumphs and challenges of the party as it navigated Kenya’s shifting political landscape.
Tuju was first appointed Secretary General in 2017, a period that saw Jubilee play a central role in Kenya’s politics. He worked closely with President Kenyatta during his second term, particularly in steering party affairs and managing coalition dynamics.
While he did not disclose his next move, Tuju expressed gratitude to the party leadership and members for their support, adding that his resignation was guided by personal reflection and the need to pursue new opportunities.
His exit marks the end of an era for Jubilee, which has undergone internal wrangles and leadership changes since the departure of President Kenyatta from active politics.
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Some Jubilee members praised Tuju for his service, describing him as a steady hand who guided the party through turbulent times.
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Others, particularly critics allied to President Ruto’s UDA, argued that his resignation was long overdue, citing Jubilee’s dwindling influence as evidence of failed leadership.
Forex Trader Sammyboy Hospitalized After Alleged Attack
Popular forex trader and social media personality Sammyboy was rushed to hospital on Sunday following an alleged late-night attack that also left his luxurious Audi with a shattered windscreen.
According to reports, the incident happened under unclear circumstances, with eyewitnesses claiming that Sammyboy was ambushed by unknown individuals. Images of the damaged vehicle surfaced online, sparking speculation and concern among his fans and fellow traders.
While the extent of his injuries has not yet been disclosed, sources close to him confirmed that he was admitted for treatment and is currently in stable condition.
The motive behind the attack remains unknown, but some online users have linked it to his high-profile lifestyle and outspoken personality in the forex community. Others have suggested it could be related to his ongoing feuds and controversies on social media.
Police have yet to issue an official statement regarding the matter, but investigations are reportedly underway.
Sammyboy, who has built a name for himself as one of Kenya’s most talked-about forex traders, is known for flaunting his wealth and cars, often attracting both admiration and criticism. This latest incident has once again put him in the spotlight, with fans flooding social media platforms to wish him a quick recovery.
Harambee Stars Players Say Bahati Has Not Fulfilled His KSh 1 Million Promise After Morocco Win
The Harambee Stars camp is buzzing with mixed emotions after their historic 2-1 win over Morocco in the ongoing CHAN 2024 tournament. While Kenyans across the country celebrated the victory, several players have come forward claiming that singer Bahati has not fulfilled his promise of rewarding them with KSh 1 million.
Before the match, Bahati had publicly announced that he would gift the national team the cash incentive if they defeated Morocco, a football powerhouse in Africa. The players say they were motivated by the pledge, but weeks later, no money has been delivered.
“Promises are meant to be kept. We gave our best on the pitch, but now it seems like the word was just for show,” one player anonymously told reporters.
The unfulfilled pledge has sparked mixed reactions among fans on social media, with some accusing Bahati of chasing clout using the national team, while others have urged patience, arguing that he may still honor the promise.
Bahati has yet to respond publicly to the allegations, but football lovers insist that celebrities and public figures should be more responsible with their words, especially when addressing national pride moments like Harambee Stars’ victory.
The win against Morocco was a major milestone for Kenya, boosting hopes of advancing further in the competition. However, the controversy around Bahati’s pledge threatens to overshadow the team’s hard-earned success.
