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Articles by Hassan Wekesa
Kalonzo: Dualling Nairobi-Mombasa Road Is Priority If Opposition Wins 2027 Polls
Kenya, 25 October 2026 – Wiper Patriotic Front party leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka on Sunday promised that opposition leaders would prioritise the dualling of the Mombasa-Nairobi road if they win the 2027 presidential race and form the government. Kalonzo, who served as Vice President before the 2010 Constitution was promulgated, said the highway had turned into a death trap.
Kalonzo Answers Malala Over Claims He Should Shelve 2027 Ambition
Kenya, 24 October 2026 – Wiper Patriotic Front party leader Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka on Sunday urged a section of opposition leaders to relax as he plans to meet former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who leads the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP).
South Sudan Opens 14 Oil Blocks, Courts investors Ahead of SSOP 2026
South Sudan, 25 October 2026 - South Sudan is offering investors acreage, oilfield contracts and infrastructure projects as it works to raise oil output, with the South Sudan Oil & Power (SSOP) 2026 conference set to bring the main players together in Juba on 24-25 November. Held under the theme “Resource Renaissance – Energy-Fueled Growth for a New Generation”, the conference comes as the Ministry of Petroleum lists 14 open blocks: A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, B1, B4, C1, C2, D1, D2, E1 and E2.
GSEF 2026: Somalia's Ambassador to Kenya Says Somali Investors Are Tried and Tested
Kenya, 24 October 2026 - Somalia’s Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, has hailed the Global Somali Entrepreneurship Forum (GSEF) as a platform that connects investors and businesses across the region, noting that trade improvements are evident. Speaking at the forum, now in its third year, he said remittances from the diaspora should go beyond consumption and be channelled into investment ventures back home.
CS Aden Duale Jokes Somalia Has Many Gachaguas At GSEF 2026 Event in Nairobi
Kenya, 24 October 2026 - Kenya’s Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale on Saturday launched a scathing attack on former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua during the Global Somali Entrepreneurship Forum 2026. Duale, who was the Chief Guest, said Kenyan parliamentarians made the right decision to impeach the former second in command. He claimed Gachagua was sowing seeds of discord in the country.
Somalia Stands With Kenya Following Eastleigh Building Collapse
Kenya, 24 October 2026 - The Federal Republic of Somalia’s Ambassador to Kenya, Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, on Saturday commended the Kenyan government and rescuers for their swift response following the collapse of a building in Eastleigh. “Somalia thanks the Kenyan government, the Nairobi City County government, the police and the rescue teams for the coordinated efforts,” he said during the Global Somali Entrepreneurship Forum (GSEF) 2026 at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Nairobi.
Trading Together Means Growing Together, Ruto Tells COMESA Leaders
Zimbabwe, 22 October 2026 - Kenya’s President William Ruto on Thursday joined leaders from 20 other member states for the 25th Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Summit of Heads of State and Government in Harare, Zimbabwe. President Ruto announced the new bureau of the COMESA Authority for 2026–2027.
Concerted Efforts: The Race to Contain Africa's Fastest-Spreading Ebola Outbreak
Ethiopia, 21 October 2026 - The Director General of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), Dr Jean Kaseya on Wednesday declared that the continent will not let the ongoing Ebola outbreak outrun its response, while praising Kenya and Nigeria for their swift and calm containment efforts.
El Niño: WMO, OCHA Call for Urgent Action to Protect People Most at Risk
Kenya, 21 October 2026 - The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) on Wednesday issued an outlook on the expected effects of El Niño across regions and countries during the October-November-December (OND) period. Both agencies called for urgent, coordinated anticipatory action. WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo said all players must use forecasts and early warnings to protect those most at risk.
Prof Ndetei Wheeled to Court for Cross-examination Over Affidavit Opposing Bond for Ex-wife
Kenya, 21 October 2026 - Psychiatrist Prof David Ndetei was on Wednesday wheeled into the Milimani High Court to be cross-examined on an affidavit opposing the release of his ex-wife, Rose Mbithe Mulwa, and her two children, Chris and Angela, who are charged with the murder of Dr Victoria Nthunya Mutiso. This is after Ms Mulwa alleged that the affidavit is a forgery and that it was signed by someone else and not her ex-husband.
Ruto Defends Record on Mashujaa Day, Launches Achieng Oneko Biography
Kenya, 20 October 2026 - President William Ruto on Tuesday stated that his administration had asked Kenyans to judge it by ideas and progress, as he defended its record while presiding over the 2026 Mashujaa Day celebrations. “Kenyans entrusted us with responsibility, not entitlement,” Dr Ruto stated. The President said Kenyans demand results and that citizens retain the right to question and challenge the administration.
U.S. Urges Americans to Reconsider Travel to Kenya Over Ebola Risks
Kenya, 20 October 2026 - As Kenyans mark Mashujaa Day 2026, the United States (the U.S.) has told its citizens to reconsider travelling to the country, citing risks ranging from health, crime, kidnapping, terrorism, unrest, and traffic safety. The Department of State renewed its Kenya travel advisory on 19 October 2026, raising it from Level 2 to Level 3 because of health risks. This basically means it is a move from exercise caution to reconsider travel.
Ethiopia PM Abiy Ahmed Joins Ruto at Eldoret as Kenya Marks Mashujaa Day 2026
Kenya, 20 October 2026 - Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has arrived at Kipchoge Keino Stadium for the Mashujaa Day celebrations, as President William Ruto leads the country in honouring its heroes. Dr Ruto arrived at the stadium a few minutes before 10am, shortly after his Ethiopian guest. Ahmed has maintained close ties with the Kenyan leader.
Shakahola Massacre: Judge Details How Paul Mackenzie Lured Followers to Forest
Kenya, 19 October 2026 - Justice Diana Kavedza on Monday gave an analysis of how some religious leaders dupe believers into oblivion and self-destruction. She was speaking during a court sitting at the Mombasa High Court, where a ruling on Pastor Paul Mackenzie and his associates is expected. Mackenzie used GNI Ministries, both at its Furunzi headquarters and its 25 branches across the country, to radicalise parents and their children.
EPL: Madueke Strikes Late as Arsenal Beat Forest to Go Back Up to Second
UK, 18 October 2026 - Arsenal bounced back to reclaim second place in the Premier League from Brighton & Hove Albion, as a second-half goal from Noni Madueke secured a 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest on Sunday. The visitors struggled to find a way through, and the first half ended 0-0. In the 80th minute, Madueke struck a determined shot that was too powerful for the Forest defenders and beat the goalkeeper to settle the match. Speaking after the match, Madueke said the game had been very tough.
Brighton Thrash Crystal Palace 5-0 to Climb to Second in the Premier League
UK, 18 October 2026 - Brighton & Hove Albion beat Crystal Palace 5-0 at American Express Stadium on Sunday to move up to second place in the Premier League. The win earned Brighton three valuable points and lifted them to 16, one ahead of third-placed Arsenal, who visit Nottingham Forest later on Sunday. Leaders Manchester City remain top with 21 points from seven matches, having beaten Ipswich 3-2 on Saturday to maintain their perfect record.
Ichung’wah Says Mt Kenya Owes Ruto a Second Term Over Uhuru Pledge
Kenya, 18 October 2026 - Kikuyu Member of Parliament Kimani Ichung’wah has said the communities of Mt Kenya must re-elect President William Ruto so that he can serve the remaining five years of the 10-year pledge. Ichung’wah, who is the Majority Leader in the National Assembly, was speaking on Sunday at a political rally in Kapsabet Town. “We the people of Mt Kenya in 2022 kept off ethnic-propelled politics and elected William Kipchirchir Arap Ruto,” he said.
Explainer: Four Ways Ebola Virus Spreads and How to Prevent It
Kenya, 18 October 2026 - Kenya's Principal Secretary in the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards Mary Muthoni has urged Kenyans to remain vigilant to curb the spread of Ebola Virus Disease, as the country battles an outbreak that has so far left seven people confirmed infected, including the deceased first case. In a short educational video clip published on the Ministry of Health’s X account, Muthoni began by explaining the various ways the virus is transmitted.
Manchester City Beat Ipswich 3-2 to Maintain Perfect Streak, Liverpool Climb to Fifth
UK, 17 October 2026 - Manchester City continued their winning streak in the English Premier League with a 3-2 win over Ipswich Town on Saturday. The result gives City seven wins from seven matches. Phil Foden opened the scoring for City in the 19th minute. Daizen Maeda equalised for Ipswich two minutes later, before Erling Haaland put the hosts back in front in the 34th minute. Haaland got his second in the 69th minute to make it 3-1.
Ida Odinga Apologises to Guests Jeered at Raila’s First Memorial Anniversary
Kenya, 17 October 2026 - Raila Odinga’s widow, Mama Ida Odinga on Saturday apologised to guests who were jeered at the former Prime Minister’s first memorial anniversary held at Migwena Grounds in Bondo, Siaya County on 15 October 2026. Ida, who is Kenya's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) said she was “particularly disappointed by the conduct of sections of the political class”.
Chelsea Beat Everton to Climb to Fourth in the Premier League Top 10
UK, 17 October 2026 - Chelsea beat Everton 2-0 at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, at Bramley-Moore Dock in Vauxhall, Liverpool, on Saturday. Pedro Neto’s double lifted Chelsea to fourth in the Premier League table. It was the Portuguese forward’s first double in the competition. He scored his first goal in the 46th minute and added the second in the 90th, following a poor clearance of a free kick.
WHO Urges Vigilance After Kenya Confirms Second Ebola Case
New York, 16 October 2026- The World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday called for vigilance after Kenya confirmed its second Ebola case on Wednesday. The announcement came days after the Ministry of Health confirmed the country’s first case on 6 October 2026. That patient had travelled by road from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), passing through several towns and entering Kampala before boarding a flight to Nairobi.
Kenya Extends 8% Fuel VAT for 90 Days
Kenya, 16 October 2026 - President William Ruto on Friday assented to the Tax Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2026, at Eldoret State Lodge in Uasin Gishu County in a move that signals the government's commitment to stabilise fuel prices. The law extends the reduced VAT rate on petroleum products, 8% instead of 16%, for another 90 days to cushion Kenyans against high fuel prices. The law also reforms excise duty on tiles, sanitary ware and glass products.
Sifuna: Raila Taught Me Leadership Is Not Forcing Yourself on People
Kenya, 15 October 2026 - Politics played out on Thursday at Migwena Grounds during the first anniversary of the death of former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga, with chants of “two-term” and “one-term” depending on which leader, and from which faction, was speaking. Host Governor James Orengo recognised and welcomed the Linda Mwananchi leaders to address attendees after leaders from the government-leaning side had made their remarks.
Raila's First Anniversary: Mama Ida Urges Kenyans to Embrace Ideals Raila Stood For
Kenya, 15 October 2026 - Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Ida Betty Odinga, on Thursday reflected on the good and bad times she shared with her late husband, Raila Amolo Odinga, urging Kenyans to stand with the ideals the former Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader stood for. Mama Ida was speaking at Migwena Grounds in Bondo, Siaya County, during the first anniversary of the passing of Kenya’s gallant son and second liberation hero.
Ruto Dismisses Sifuna's Vow to Scrap Housing Levy in 2027
Kenya, 15 October 2026 - President William Ruto on Thursday chided opposition leaders who have said they will stop the deduction of the Housing Levy if they ascend to power in the 2027 General Election. Speaking during the inspection of the Chepkorio Affordable Housing Programme in Elgeyo Marakwet, Dr Ruto said his Kenya Kwanza administration and the Broad-Based Government were doing what Kenyans have long wanted done since independence in terms of development.
Wandayi Dismisses Gachagua’s Claims of Looming Fuel Price Rise
Kenya, 14 October 2026 - Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum Opiyo Wandayi on Wednesday responded to claims by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who alleged that fuel prices would rise in the expected fuel review. In a statement shared publicly, Gachagua, who leads the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP), alleged that President William Ruto had directed an increase of KSh 9 per litre on diesel and KSh 12 per litre on petrol.
Education Leaders Present Budget at KICC as Lecturers' Strike Persists
Kenya, 14 October 2026 - Officials from Kenya’s Ministry of Education and education sector leaders, led by Principal Secretary (PS) for the State Department for Basic Education John Ololtuaa, on Wednesday presented the sector’s budget proposals for the coming financial year and the medium term. They did so during the Public Sector Hearing on the FY 2027/28 Budget and Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi.
2027 Race: Ruto Tells Tiaty Residents to Spare Him Shame of Low Turnout
Kenya, 13 October 2026 - President William Ruto on Tuesday urged residents of Baringo County to register as voters en masse, saying that is the highway to forming government. Tiaty MP William Kamket said Tiaty in Baringo is a very large area and that residents are ready to teach the President’s opponents a lesson. He said about 100,000 votes would go to President Ruto. However, President Ruto said Tiaty has the potential to deliver 200,000 votes.
Nairobi Is Set to Host Third Global Somali Entrepreneurship Forum
Kenya, 13 October 2026 - With just 11 days remaining before the Global Somali Entrepreneurship Forum (GSEF) kicks off in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, the excitement around it can be felt in social interactions and conversations, from villages to cities. The two-day forum will run from 24 to 25 October at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Nairobi’s Upper Hill. GSEF 2026 is the third edition, and the conveners have promised to build on the momentum of the previous editions, held in 2024 and 2025.
Kenya’s Ebola Rules Set Out Isolation, Enforcement and Penalties After First Confirmed Case
Kenya, 12 October 2026 - Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Health Aden Duale on Monday published Subsidiary Legislation, 2026, which sets out measures for Ebola disease prevention, detection, reporting and enforcement. The new rules come barely six days after Kenya confirmed first Ebola case in 2026, with the government clarifying that the patient succumbed. The focus now shifts on compliance with lawful public health orders, with clear penalties over non-compliance.
Houthi-Saudi Tensions Ripple Across East Africa and the Horn of Africa
Kenya, 12 October 2026 – The escalation of tensions between the Houthis and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia threatens flight operations, with most passengers in the Horn of Africa and East Africa likely to be stranded. Anadolu Agency reported on Monday that Yemen’s Houthis have targeted at least five international airports in Saudi Arabia between 5 and 11 October 2026.
Kenya’s Military Joins Tree Planting and Conservation Drive
Kenya, 12 October 2026 – Kenya’s military on Monday joined institutions and community groups in efforts to conserve, protect and restore natural ecosystems, two days after the country marked Mazingira Day on 10 October 2026.
President Ruto Praises Organised Traders at Maraba Market Opening
By Hassan Wekesa - Editor Kenya, 12 October 2026 – President William Ruto on Monday toured the newly opened Maraba Market in Tinderet, Nandi County, where he expressed satisfaction with the way traders have been organised. He singled out a small Huduma Centre that has been established within the market, enabling traders to access government services conveniently while going about their business.
Concerns as Residents Eat Fish From Fuel-hit River Nyando Following Leak
Kenya, 11 October 2026 - Some residents of the villages neighbouring the riverbanks of the River Nyando in Kisumu County are eating fish caught after fuel leaked into the water from a Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) line. Health concerns are mounting, while Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o on Friday demanded an impartial investigation into the fuel leak.
Governor Nyong’o Demands Impartial Probe into River Nyando Fuel Spill
Kenya, 9 October 2026 - Kisumu Governor Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o on Friday called for impartial investigations and fair compensation for residents around Kibigori and Muhoroni following a fuel spillage into the Nyando River and its environs. In a media statement issued on 9 October 2026, Prof Nyong’o said the reported accidental fuel spill from Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) infrastructure poses serious risks to public health, the environment, livelihoods and critical national infrastructure.
Mazingira Day: KeNHA Joins Clean-Up Drives Ahead of Main Event
Kenya, 9 October 2026 - The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) is collaborating with the Ministry of Environment and other stakeholders to plant trees as part of environmental conservation efforts ahead of Mazingira Day celebrations on Saturday.
Kenya and U.S. Move to Deepen Police Training, Counter-terrorism and Crime Cooperation
Kenya, 9 October 2026 - Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja on Friday hosted a United States Embassy delegation for talks that could expand cooperation on police training, technology, border security and investigations into serious transnational crimes.
Another Fuel Leakage: Why Kenya Pipeline Company Must Overhaul the Kibigori Line
Kenya, 8 October 2026 - Just a month after residents of Kibigori in Kisumu County had to cope with restrictions following a petroleum pipeline leak, another incident has happened, raising further safety concerns. The incident, which happened on Thursday, involved a leak in a fuel pipeline that runs adjacent to the Nyando River. The fuel spillage was allegedly caused by digging to construct gabions along the river bank to prevent soil erosion as the country prepares for El Niño rains.
Ruto Vows to Sustain Agriculture and Fisheries Revival at Presidential Town Hall
Kenya, 8 October 2026 - President William Ruto on Thursday promised to empower farmers and fishermen across the country to realise their full potential. Farmers and fisherfolk raised their concerns. He gave the assurance during the Presidential Town Hall on the sidelines of the Agriculture and Food Security Summit at Jamhuri Park, Nairobi.
John Matara Seeks Acquittal in Starlet Wahu Murder Trial
By Hassan Wekesa - Editor Kenya, 8 October 2026 - Music artist John Matara on Thursday appeared at the Milimani High Court, where he defended himself in the case in which he is charged with murdering socialite Starlet Wahu. Matara allegedly committed the murder on 3 January 2024 at an Airbnb in South B, Nairobi. Defence lawyers Samuel Ayora and James Mochere asked Justice Alexander Muteti to acquit their client for lack of evidence.
Children's Department Awaits Mackenzie Ruling Before Securing Birth Certificates for His Children
Kenya, 8 October 2026 - As the ruling on controversial preacher Paul Mackenzie in the Shakahola matter draws near, the Children's Department is awaiting the court's decision, as well as his disclosure of crucial documents relating to his five minor children, so that they can secure birth certificates. Mackenzie and his wife are both in custody, while the children's grandmother is allegedly starving them in what is termed fasting.
Ruto Hands Over Raila Odinga Mausoleum in Bondo as Oburu Misses Ceremony
Kenya, 7 October 2026 - President William Ruto on Wednesday officially handed over the Raila Odinga Mausoleum at Kang'o ka Jaramogi in Bondo, hailing the legacy of the late former Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga. The President said October had been dedicated as "Baba's Month" in remembrance of the gallant son of Kenya, who died on 15 October 2025. "We are here to honour a life and renew the commitment to keep Raila Odinga's struggles alive," President Ruto said.
Sifuna Claims Parliament 'Gatekeepers' Will Bury His Lamu Refinery Request
Kenya, 7 October 2026 - Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna who on Sunday unveiled The Equitable Party (TEP) as his preferred political vehicle in the Linda Mwananchi faction has accused President William Ruto of allegedly taking comfort in the belief that Parliament will block any attempt to bring to the public the records on the Dangote East Africa Petroleum Refinery.
Dr Oburu Oginga Issues Statement Following Rumour About His Alleged Death
Kenya, 6 October 2026 - The Party Leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Dr Oburu Oginga on Tuesday issued a statement allaying fears over his health status after social media reports emerged claiming that he had died.
Seven Charged Over Dr Victoria Mutiso Murder Seek Release on Bond
Kenya, 6 October 2026 - Seven people charged over the murder of Dr Victoria Mutiso among them police Collins Bett who had fled to Uganda on Tuesday applied to be released on bond. Apart from Bett, others charged are Rose Mbithe Mulwa alias Rose Mbijiwe, her two children Angela Mulwa and Chris Mulwa (both lawyers), Police Constable Elijah Kimoi, Kimutai Maritim and Pius Mbugua. They have denied killing Dr Mutiso on 29 July 2026.
Opposition Leaders Reiterate Resolve to Wrest Power from Ruto in 2027 Polls
By Hassan Wekesa - Editor Kenya, 3 October 2026 - Opposition leaders said on Saturday that they stand firm in their pursuit to wrest power from President William Ruto through the ballot, as they hailed People's Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua as an astute and courageous leader keen to fight for democratic rights. They were speaking at the burial service of her father, the late Mwalimu Jackson Karua, in Kirinyaga.
Ruto Joins Dangote as Kenya Breaks Ground for East Africa Petroleum Refinery in Lamu
Kenya, 30 September 2026 - President William Ruto on Wednesday welcomed the main investor of the Lamu East Africa Petroleum Refinery, Aliko Dangote, stating that he, personally, as Head of State, together with his family and the people of Kenya, accords the Nigerian billionaire full support to ensure the project becomes a major success.
Preparations in Top Gear Ahead of Groundbreaking for Dangote Oil Refinery in Lamu
Kenya, 28 September 2026 - As Kenya prepares to host Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote for the groundbreaking ceremony of the Lamu oil refinery project, worth $16 billion (KSh 2.1 trillion), on Wednesday, 30 September 2026, there is already tangible evidence on the ground that something big is happening. Last week, a vessel docked at Lamu Port carrying construction materials, mainly metallic, clear evidence that the promise President William Ruto made is finally taking shape.
Kenyan Youth, Students Reject Tertiary Education Placement and Funding Bill, 2026
Kenya, 22 September 2026 - The People's Party of Kenya Youth League and student leaders from various universities and tertiary institutions across the country on Tuesday called out the National Assembly and the Executive over what they termed as attempts to make tertiary education unreachable to many Kenyans from humble backgrounds. Leading the young leaders was Wainaina Gichere, National Youth Leader of the People's Party of Kenya.
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