by Bukeni AbdullatifKenya Launches Nationwide Public Forums on Constitutional Amendment Bill
Nairobi, May 6, 2025 — The Kenyan Parliament has initiated a series of public participation forums across the country to gather citizen input on the proposed Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill No. 4 of 2025. This bill aims to enshrine three key development funds into the Constitution:
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National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF)
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Senate Oversight Fund
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National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF)
The public hearings commenced on May 5 and are scheduled to continue through May 7, 2025, covering all 290 constituencies and 47 counties. Sessions are being held daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at each constituency office and the offices of the 47 County Women Representatives.
This initiative follows previous legal challenges questioning the constitutional validity of these funds. By embedding them into the Constitution, the bill seeks to provide a solid legal foundation for their continued operation.
Kenyans are encouraged to participate in these forums to express their views. Additionally, written submissions can be sent via email to cna@parliament.go.ke or constitutionamendment@parliament.go.ke. Physical submissions can be delivered to the Clerk of the National Assembly at P.O. Box 41842-00100, Nairobi, or in person at the Main Parliament Buildings. All submissions must be received by 5:00 PM on June 10, 2025.
This public participation process is a critical step in ensuring that the voices of Kenyan citizens are heard in the constitutional amendment process, particularly concerning the management and oversight of development funds.
Kenya’s High Court Declares Worldcoin Operations Illegal Over Privacy Violations
Nairobi, May 6, 2025 — In a landmark decision, the High Court of Kenya has ruled that the operations of Worldcoin, a controversial cryptocurrency project backed by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, are illegal in the country. The court found that Worldcoin’s collection of biometric data from Kenyan citizens violated constitutional privacy rights.
Worldcoin, which uses eye-scanning “orbs” to collect users’ iris data in exchange for cryptocurrency tokens, had been operating in Kenya under scrutiny since 2023. Concerns were raised about the transparency of its data handling and the lack of informed consent from users — many of whom were drawn in by monetary incentives.
In its ruling, the court ordered an immediate halt to all Worldcoin activities in Kenya and mandated the deletion of all personal data already collected. The judgment stated that the company had failed to comply with Kenya’s Data Protection Act, and that the potential for misuse of sensitive biometric information posed a serious risk to national security and individual privacy.
Amnesty International Kenya praised the decision, calling it a critical step toward ensuring that multinational tech firms cannot exploit vulnerable populations under the guise of innovation.
“This ruling affirms that Kenyans’ rights cannot be traded for digital tokens,” said Irũngũ Houghton, Executive Director of Amnesty International Kenya. “The government and judiciary must remain vigilant in protecting the rights of citizens in the face of rapid technological change.”
The decision is likely to have far-reaching implications for other digital identity and data-driven projects in Kenya and across Africa, where regulatory frameworks are still evolving to keep pace with technological advancements.
As of now, Worldcoin has not issued an official response to the ruling.
“Shoe Protest: Angry Citizen Hurls Footwear at President Ruto During Public Event”
Nairobi, Kenya – May 5, 2025 – A dramatic scene unfolded today when a furious protester threw a shoe at President William Ruto during a public address, symbolizing growing public rage over economic hardships and the controversial Finance Bill 2025.
What Happened?
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The incident occurred as the president spoke at a town hall meeting in Nakuru, defending the new tax proposals.
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A man in the crowd suddenly shouted “Stop stealing from the poor!” before hurling his shoe toward the podium.
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Security swiftly tackled the protester, while the shoe missed the president but sparked chaos in the venue.
Why a Shoe?
The act of shoe-throwing is a global symbol of disrespect and protest, famously used against leaders like George W. Bush (2008) and Saddam Hussein (statue, 2003). In Kenya, it reflects deep frustration over rising living costs, unemployment, and perceived government excesses.
Public Reaction: Divided Opinions
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Supporters of the protester praised the act, calling it “the voice of the people.” Social media erupted with memes and hashtags like #ShoeOfShame.
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Government allies condemned it as “disgraceful and undemocratic,” urging respect for the presidency.
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Police confirmed the man was arrested but did not disclose charges.
A Sign of Growing Unrest?
The shoe protest comes as nationwide demonstrations against the Finance Bill 2025 are set to begin next week. Analysts warn that if the government doesn’t address public anger, more radical displays of dissent could follow.
“No to More Taxes!” – Fury Erupts Over Finance Bill 2025 as Protests Loom
Nairobi, Kenya – May 5, 2025 – Kenya is bracing for a fresh wave of unrest as opposition leaders and civil society groups mobilize nationwide protests against the controversial Finance Bill 2025, which critics say will deepen the financial pain for ordinary citizens.
What’s in the Finance Bill 2025?
The proposed bill introduces new taxes and levies, including:
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Higher VAT on essential goods (fuel, bread, and mobile transactions)
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A 1.5% housing levy increase on salaried workers
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New digital service taxes affecting online businesses
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Increased excise duty on alcohol and betting
The government argues the measures are necessary to boost revenue and reduce debt, but opponents call it an attack on struggling Kenyans.
Opposition & Activists Fight Back
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Azimio leader Raila Odinga has vowed to lead demonstrations, calling the bill “economic sabotage.”
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Gen-Z & Millennial activists are organizing under #RejectFinanceBill2025, with viral social media campaigns gaining momentum.
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Business leaders warn that higher taxes could stifle growth and increase unemployment.
Protests Planned Nationwide
Mass protests are expected in:
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Nairobi (CBD & Parliament)
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Mombasa (Treasury Square)
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Kisumu (Jomo Kenyatta Grounds)
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Nakuru (Nyayo Gardens)
Police have issued warnings against “illegal gatherings,” but protesters insist they will march.
Will the Government Back Down?
Treasury officials insist the bill is “non-negotiable,” but with public anger rising, political pressure could force amendments.
Will history repeat itself? (Recall the 2023 protests that forced tax rollbacks.)
📢 Follow live updates on protest plans via #RejectFinanceBill2025 on X (Twitter).
“Guza Guza” Takes Over: Black Market’s Viral Hit Surpasses 1 Million YouTube Views
Nairobi, Kenya – May 5, 2025 – Kenyan music duo Black Market has set the internet ablaze with their latest hit, “Guza Guza,” which has skyrocketed past 1 million views on YouTube in just weeks. The song’s infectious beat, catchy lyrics, and energetic dance moves have made it a social media sensation, dominating TikTok challenges and club playlists across East Africa.
Why “Guza Guza” Is Everywhere
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Viral Dance Craze: Fans and influencers are recreating the song’s signature dance moves, flooding TikTok and Instagram with #GuzaGuzaChallenge clips.
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Club & Radio Dominance: DJs can’t get enough—the track is on heavy rotation in nightspots from Nairobi to Mombasa.
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Street Slang Appeal: The phrase “Guza Guza” (a playful, flirtatious term in Sheng) has become a cultural catchphrase.
Black Market’s Comeback
After a brief hiatus, Black Market (composed of Bamboo and Njogu) proves they still have the Midas touch. Fans are calling “Guza Guza” their best release since “Wapi” and “Kesho.”
What’s Next?
With a music video rumored to drop soon and performances lined up across Kenya, the duo shows no signs of slowing down. Could this be the song of the year?
Watch “Guza Guza” here: https://youtu.be/L0h4MJGnycA?si=7fF4NheVk1qOVVfS
Fuel Prices Drop Slightly as EPRA Offers Kenyans Marginal Relief
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
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Super Petrol: Decreased by KSh 2.50 per liter, now retailing at KSh 194.68 in Nairobi.
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Diesel: Reduced by KSh 1.80 per liter, dropping to KSh 179.53.
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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.
Kenya Flood Crisis Deepens: Over 200 Dead as Military Launches Mass Evacuations
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.
Sri Lankan Community in Kenya Celebrates New Year with Vibrant Cultural Festivities
Nairobi, Kenya — April 28, 2025
The Sri Lankan community in Kenya came together over the weekend to celebrate their traditional New Year, known as Aluth Avurudda, in a colorful event that showcased the rich cultural diversity within Kenya’s borders.
Held at the Sri Lanka Association grounds in Nairobi, the festivities drew hundreds of Sri Lankan families, Kenyan friends, and members of the diplomatic corps. The event was marked by vibrant traditional dances, drumming performances, and a variety of cultural games that symbolize prosperity, unity, and new beginnings.
Children and adults alike participated in games such as Kotta Pora (pillow fights), Kana Mutti Bindima (pot breaking), and Tug of War, creating an atmosphere of joy and community spirit. Attendees were also treated to an array of authentic Sri Lankan dishes, from spicy curries to sweet treats like Kavum and Kokis.
Addressing the gathering, Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to Kenya, H.E. Velupillai Kananathan, emphasized the importance of cultural celebrations in strengthening bonds between communities. “As we mark the New Year, we celebrate not just our heritage but the enduring friendship between Sri Lanka and Kenya,” he said.
Leaders from Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Nairobi County also attended the event, praising the Sri Lankan community for their contributions to Kenya’s multicultural tapestry. “Events like these remind us that Kenya is home to many cultures, each adding a unique flavor to our national identity,” said Deputy Foreign Minister Wanjiku Mwangi.
The Sri Lankan New Year, typically celebrated in mid-April, marks the transition of the sun from the Meena (Pisces) to the Mesha (Aries) zodiac sign. It is a time for families to gather, forgive past grievances, and look forward to a prosperous year ahead.
The celebration in Nairobi ended with a traditional oil lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing hope and a fresh start, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of unity and cultural pride.
Kenyan Police Officers Set to Return Home After Successful Haiti Peacekeeping Mission
Nairobi, Kenya — April 28, 2025
The first group of Kenyan police officers deployed to Haiti on a United Nations-backed peacekeeping mission is set to return home this week, marking a significant milestone in Kenya’s growing role in international security operations.
The contingent, drawn from the elite General Service Unit (GSU) and the Administration Police Service (APS), was part of a multinational mission aimed at stabilizing Haiti amid ongoing political turmoil, gang violence, and humanitarian crises. Kenya had pledged to lead the mission following a special request from the United Nations in late 2023.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki confirmed that preparations to welcome the officers back are underway. “Our officers have served with honor, discipline, and professionalism, earning praise from both local Haitian authorities and the international community,” said Kindiki during a press briefing on Monday.
The officers, numbering approximately 400, spent several months working alongside other international forces to restore security in key urban areas, protect humanitarian corridors, and train local Haitian police units. Their return comes as the mission transitions into a new phase focused on reconstruction and civil governance support.
Family members of the returning officers have expressed joy and relief after months of anxious waiting. “We are proud of them. They represented Kenya well and showed that we can contribute to global peace,” said Lucy Mwangi, whose son was part of the mission.
The returning officers are expected to undergo a debriefing and counseling program to help them reintegrate after months in a high-stress environment. Plans are also underway to recognize their service formally through state commendations.
Kenya’s leadership of the Haiti mission was hailed internationally as a bold step, with President William Ruto emphasizing that Kenya remains committed to promoting peace and stability both at home and abroad.
Meanwhile, a second rotation of officers is scheduled to continue operations in Haiti, ensuring the sustained presence of Kenyan expertise in the fragile Caribbean nation.
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.
