Simon Ndonga
Verified
Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Simon Ndonga
CS Kagwe Opens World Potato Congress, Courts Investors to Replace Imports
NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 27 — Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe has called on investors to expand potato processing, replace imported potato products with locally manufactured alternatives and unlock idle public land for commercial farming as Kenya hosts the 13th World Potato Congress. Kagwe opened the global gathering, which is running from October 26 to 30, bringing together 1,000 delegates from 67 countries, exceeding the initial target of 600 participants from 60 countries.
Kenya: How Men With Female Surnames Are Standing Up to Ridicule in Kenya
Many children in Kenya traditionally inherit their father's first name as their surname, but there are an increasing number of people who are taking their mother's instead. This is particularly the case amongst the country's largest ethnic group, the Kikuyu - and has become a subject of debate and in some cases ridicule for the men with female surnames.
Kenya: Sh350bn National Infrastructure Fund Will Drive Kenya's Transformation - Ruto
Kitui — President William Ruto has said the Sh350 billion mobilised through the newly established National Infrastructure Fund (NIF) will play a critical role in financing major development projects and accelerating Kenya's transition into a first-world economy.
CS Mbadi Defends National Infrastructure Fund Appointments, Says Selection Was Merit-Based
NAIROBI, Kenya Jul 11 – Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has defended the appointment of members to the National Infrastructure Fund (NIF) board, insisting the selection process was transparent, competitive and based entirely on merit.
Govt Plans to Desilt Kenyatta Dam to Boost Irrigation and Livelihoods Around Mau Forest
NAKURU, Kenya Jul 6 – The government has announced plans to desilt Kenyatta Dam in Kuresoi, Nakuru County, as part of wider efforts to enhance irrigation and support alternative economic activities for communities living around the Mau Forest Complex. Irrigation Principal Secretary Ephantus Kimotho said the project is part of the government’s broader strategy to restore and conserve the country’s largest water tower while improving livelihoods for residents in surrounding areas.
OPINION: China’s Innovation Dividend Is an Opportunity, Not a Shock
By Stephen Ndegwa For much of the past two decades, every major advance in China’s economy has been accompanied by predictions of disruption. The latest version of this anxiety has been labelled “China Shock 2.0”, a phrase suggesting that a new wave of Chinese exports, particularly electric vehicles, batteries and advanced technologies, threatens industries and jobs across the world. However, the evidence tells a different story.
Kenya: High Court Nullifies Sections of Cybercrimes Law Allowing Website Blocking Without Court Orders
Nairobi — The High Court has declared unconstitutional key provisions of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2025 that granted a State committee powers to block websites and online platforms without prior approval from the courts.
High Court Nullifies Sections of Cybercrimes Law Allowing Website Blocking Without Court Orders
NAIROBI, Kenya Jul 2 – The High Court has declared unconstitutional key provisions of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) Act, 2025 that granted a State committee powers to block websites and online platforms without prior approval from the courts.
UNODC Boss Monica Juma Warns Drug Traffickers Exploiting Technology and Global Instability
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 27 – United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Executive Director of the Monica Juma, has warned that global drug traffickers are increasingly exploiting technology, geopolitical instability and evolving trafficking networks to flood markets with dangerous new narcotics.
NACADA to Work with Clergy in North Rift to Wipe Out Drug and Alcohol Menace
ELDORET, Kenya Jun 14 – In a decisive show of force against the runaway crisis of substance abuse, National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) Board Chair Bishop Dr. Stephen Mairori has joined hands with Head of Public Service Felix Koskei and religious leaders from the North Rift region, vowing to dismantle the drug and alcohol networks destroying Kenya’s youth.
Govt Fast-Tracking Measures to Combat Gender-Based Violence and Femicide, Says DP Kindiki
NAIROBI, Kenya, June 11 — The government is accelerating the implementation of measures aimed at tackling the rising cases of gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide across the country, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has said.
CS Mbadi Defends Tough 2026/27 Budget Amid Economic Pressures
NAIROBI, Kenya, June 11 — Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi has defended the government’s 2026/2027 budget, saying the country is facing difficult economic realities that have made the current financial plan one of the most challenging in recent years.
US-Based Alpha Queen Collective Expands Education and Mentorship Support in Kenyan Schools
KISII, Kenya, June 11 — Thousands of learners in schools across Kenya are benefiting from education and mentorship programmes spearheaded by the United States-based Alpha Queen Collective. The initiative focuses on empowering young people through education support, mentorship and access to essential learning resources, with a strong emphasis on supporting girls from vulnerable communities.
Opposition Unveils ‘People’s Budget’, Accuses Ruto Govt of Economic Mismanagement
NAIROBI, Kenya, June 11 — Kenya’s opposition coalition under the United Alternative Government banner has sharply criticised President William Ruto’s administration ahead of the presentation of the 2026/2027 national budget, accusing the government of pursuing policies that are deepening the country’s debt crisis and worsening the burden on ordinary citizens.
President Ruto Meets Business Leaders Ahead of Finland–Kenya Business Forum in Helsinki
cial media platforms, President Ruto said the delegation accompanying him to Finland comprises key players in Kenya’s technology, connectivity, data infrastructure, financial services and investment sectors. According to the President, the delegation reflects Kenya’s growing position as a leading innovation and technology hub on the African continent.
US and Iran exchange strikes across Middle East for second day in a row
The US and Iran have exchanged strikes across the Middle East for a second consecutive day, further straining an already shaky ceasefire agreed between the two countries in April. US Central Command (Centcom) said it had completed a wave of “self-defense strikes” targeting military, surveillance and radar sites in southern Iran. The attack came hours after President Donald Trump vowed US forces would hit Iran “hard”, and that Tehran had taken “too long to make a deal” to permanently end the war.
CS Mbadi to Present 2026/27 Budget Amid Rising Cost of Living Concerns
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 11 – The highly anticipated budget statement is expected to outline how the government plans to finance key sectors including education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture and security, while also addressing growing public pressure to reduce the tax burden on households and businesses.
China Injects Sh390mn Into Maternal Health Programme in Northeastern Kenya
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 10 – China has committed Sh390 million towards a new maternal and newborn health programme targeting northeastern Kenya, where women and infants continue to face some of the highest mortality rates in the country despite broader national progress in healthcare. The initiative, funded by the Chinese government through the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund and implemented in partnership with UNICEF, will focus on Garissa, Wajir and Mandera counties.
Construction Worker Killed After Billboard Collapses at JKIA Chinese Construction Site
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 10 – A construction worker has died after a billboard collapsed on him during demolition works at a Chinese construction site near Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi. According to a police report filed at JKIA Police Station by officers attached to the Expressway Section One unit, the incident occurred on Sunday at around 9:40am within the CALE Chinese Construction site located at the border of JKIA and Katani area.
President Ruto Urges Norwegian Investors to Use Kenya as Gateway to Africa
NORWAY, Oslo Jun 10 – President William Ruto has urged Norwegian investors and companies to use Kenya as a gateway to expanding business opportunities across Africa, citing the country’s strategic position, youthful workforce and growing economy. Speaking during the Norway-Kenya Business Forum in Oslo on Tuesday, President Ruto said Kenya offers an attractive investment environment anchored on clean energy, regional connectivity and a dynamic labour force.
President Ruto in Finland for Two-Day State Visit After Norway Tour
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 10 – President William Ruto arrived in Helsinki, Finland, on Tuesday evening for a two-day State Visit following the conclusion of his official engagements in Norway. The President’s visit to Finland is expected to focus on strengthening bilateral relations, trade, investment, technology partnerships and cooperation in education, clean energy and sustainable development.
President Ruto Praises Modi After Becoming India’s Longest-Serving Elected PM
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 10 – President William Ruto has congratulated Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi after he became the longest-serving elected Prime Minister in India’s history. In a message shared on Tuesday, Ruto praised Modi’s leadership, describing the milestone as a reflection of the confidence and trust placed in him by the Indian people across three consecutive terms in office.
US and Iran exchange fire after American patrol helicopter downed in Hormuz
The United States says it’s completed a series of strikes against Iran, which has retaliated by launching drones and missiles. The US military said it targeted air defence systems, ground control stations and radar sites in response to the downing of an American helicopter on Monday.
High Court Transfers SHA Constitutional Petition to Milimani Division
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 10 – A legal challenge contesting the legality of the Social Health Authority (SHA), digital health infrastructure and medical schemes for public officers will now be heard by the Constitutional and Human Rights Division of the High Court in Nairobi after the case was transferred from Kiambu. Justice Bahati Mwamuye ordered the transfer after determining that the petition raises constitutional questions similar to matters already pending before the Milimani-based court division.
Senate Wants Uhuru Benefits Case Dismissed, Says Petition Is Premature
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 10 – The Senate has moved to block a court bid seeking to halt parliamentary consideration of a proposal targeting the retirement benefits of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, arguing that the petition before the High Court is speculative and legally premature. In documents filed before the court, the Senate says the application seeking conservatory orders fails to satisfy the legal principles established by the Supreme Court for the grant of such relief.
Civil Society Groups Call for Transparency in County Project Spending
KISUMU, Kenya Jun 10 – Civil society organisations from four counties in western Kenya have raised concerns over the growing number of stalled public projects, ballooning pending bills and emerging political violence ahead of the 2027 General Election, warning that the trends threaten public service delivery and accountability.
Kenya, Norway Explore New Shipping Routes Linking Mombasa, Lamu and Europe
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 9 – President William Ruto has announced that Kenya and Norway are exploring new shipping routes aimed at boosting trade, strengthening supply chain resilience and improving maritime connectivity between the two countries.
Petition Filed to Block Airstrip and State Lodge Projects in Imenti Forest
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 9 – A petition has been filed before the Environment and Land Court seeking to halt any proposed developments within Imenti Forest over fears that parts of the protected ecosystem could be allocated for major infrastructure projects. The case, filed by petitioner Francis Awino, seeks urgent conservatory orders barring government agencies and any other parties from carrying out activities that may alter the forest pending the hearing and determination of the matter.
Laikipia County Opposes Proposed Ebola Quarantine Facility in Nanyuki
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 9 – The Laikipia County Government has formally opposed plans to establish an Ebola quarantine and isolation facility within the county, citing concerns over public health safety, economic impact, governance procedures and the welfare of children living and studying near the proposed site.
President Ruto Arrives in Oslo for Talks on Trade, Climate and Investment
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 9 – President William Ruto has arrived in Oslo, Norway, for an official visit aimed at strengthening the longstanding bilateral relations between Kenya and the Kingdom of Norway. The visit is expected to deepen cooperation between the two countries in key sectors including trade and investment, climate action, renewable energy and sustainable development.
Two Killed in Suspected Somalia Militia Attack in Mandera
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 9 – Two people have been killed and another seriously injured following a suspected cross-border militia attack in Mandera County near the Kenya-Somalia border. According to a police report, the attack occurred at around 3am on Monday when about 10 heavily armed militia members believed to be from Somalia crossed into Elgolicha village and opened fire on residents.
ICC Suspends Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan Over Sexual Misconduct Allegations
onday, the Bureau of the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), the ICC’s governing body, announced that disciplinary proceedings against Khan would now be referred to all 125 member states for consideration during a special session. The bureau clarified that the suspension should not be interpreted as a final determination of guilt or innocence. “This suspension is not an indication of the final outcome,” the statement read.
Iran and Israel say they will pause strikes but warn of retaliation if ceasefire breached again
Iran and Israel say they have halted attacks on each other, after the two countries exchanged fire for the first time since April’s truce. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that his country was holding fire “at the moment”. But he stressed that the struggle against Iran and Hezbollah was “not finished”. It came hours after Iran’s armed forces said it had stopped operations following the delivery of a “painful response” to Israel.
President Ruto Begins Europe Tour Focused on Trade, Investment and Export Growth
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 8 – President William Ruto has departed for an official tour of Europe aimed at attracting foreign investment, expanding export markets for Kenyan products and strengthening bilateral partnerships. According to a statement from the Office of the State House Spokesperson, the President will visit Belgium, Norway and Finland for a series of high-level engagements focused on trade, investment and economic cooperation.
National Security Team to Discuss Wave of School Fires and Student Protests
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 8 – The National Security Advisory Committee (NSAC) is scheduled to meet on June 8 to deliberate on the growing cases of unrest in schools across the country. The high-level security meeting comes amid rising concern over incidents of student protests, dormitory fires and disturbances reported in several learning institutions in recent weeks.
Israel Launches Retaliatory Airstrikes on Iran After Missile Attacks
Israel launched retaliatory airstrikes on military targets in western and central Iran early Monday after Tehran fired missiles toward northern Israel in the latest escalation threatening to reignite wider conflict across the Middle East. The Israeli military said its air force targeted Iranian military infrastructure hours after Iran launched several ballistic missiles toward Israeli territory.
Three-Judge Bench to Rule on Constitutionality of Gachagua Impeachment
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 8 – Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is set to know his fate on Monday when a three-judge bench delivers its ruling on the impeachment case challenging his removal from office. The highly anticipated judgment will determine whether the impeachment process conducted by Parliament met constitutional requirements, in a case that has drawn national political attention.
Tsunami Threat Looms After 8.0 Magnitude Earthquake Hits Philippines
A powerful earthquake measuring between 7.8 and 8.1 magnitude struck off the southern coast of the Philippines early Monday, triggering tsunami warnings, emergency evacuations and reports of collapsed buildings across parts of Mindanao. Authorities said the quake hit near Sarangani province, close to General Santos City on the island of Mindanao, at a shallow depth that intensified the shaking.
Wetang’ula Hints at 2032 Presidential Bid, Rallies Western Youth Behind Ruto
BUNGOMA, Kenya Jun 7 – National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula has urged young people in Western Kenya to support President William Ruto’s re-election bid in the 2027 General Election, saying their participation will be critical in shaping the country’s future leadership.
National Assembly Roads Committee Lauds Progress on Muhoroni–Chemelil–Mamboleo Road Project
KISUMU, Kenya Jun 7 – The National Assembly Roads Committee has expressed satisfaction with the progress of the Muhoroni–Chemelil–Mamboleo road project, saying accelerated government funding has enabled contractors to significantly improve the pace of construction on one of western Kenya’s key transport corridors.
Kenya Intensifies Ebola Preparedness as Government Pushes for Fully Operational Quarantine Centres
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 6 – Kenya is strengthening its Ebola preparedness measures, with the Ministry of Health emphasizing the urgent need for fully operational quarantine centres to contain any potential infections before they spread.
PSSF Trustees Seek Removal From Constitutional Petition Challenging Public Servants’ Benefits Framework
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 6 – The trustees and administrators of Kenya’s Public Service Superannuation Fund (PSSF) are seeking to be removed from an ongoing constitutional petition, arguing that they have been wrongly dragged into a legal dispute centred on healthcare financing and insurance arrangements.
Nearly 50 people die of thirst in Sahara desert after lorry breaks down
At least 49 people have died of thirst in a remote part of the Sahara desert in northern Niger after the truck carrying them broke down, the authorities say. The group were returning from Mali, where they had attended celebrations for the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha, when they ran out of water, stranded more than 80km (50 miles) west of Assamaka, a major border crossing point between Niger and Algeria.
CS Duale Defends Kenya’s Ebola Preparedness Measures in Court Battle With Katiba Institute
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 6 – Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has defended the Government’s Ebola preparedness and quarantine measures, arguing that Kenya’s response framework is legally grounded, scientifically informed and necessary to protect public health amid the regional outbreak.
Court Quashes Ex-CJ Maraga Advisory Seeking Dissolution of Parliament Over Gender Rule
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 6 – A five-judge bench of the High Court sitting in the Constitutional and Human Rights Division in Nairobi has declared unconstitutional an advisory issued by former Chief Justice David Maraga recommending the dissolution of Parliament for failure to implement the two-thirds gender rule. In the ruling, the judges quashed the advisory in its entirety, holding that it could not be interpreted as a binding constitutional instrument compelling the President to dissolve Parliament.
Azimio Rejects Proposed Minority Leadership Changes in Narok County Assembly
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 6 – The Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition has strongly opposed what it termed as unlawful and undemocratic attempts to alter minority leadership positions in the Narok County Assembly. In a statement, the coalition accused unnamed actors of attempting to unilaterally change the assembly’s minority leadership structure without consultation or approval from coalition parties.
Lake Region Farmers to Benefit From New Sunflower Farming Initiative
KISUMU, Kenya Jun 6 – Farmers across the Lake Region are set to benefit from a new sunflower farming programme aimed at boosting household incomes, improving food security and opening up new market opportunities for local communities. The initiative was officially launched at the Industrial Technology Transfer and Training Centre by the Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA) in partnership with Green Tec Hub Limited.
Nyaribari Chache Race Takes Shape as Politicians Eye Zaheer Jhanda’s Seat Ahead of 2027
KISII, Kenya Jun 6 – The political battle for the Nyaribari Chache Constituency parliamentary seat is already gathering momentum nearly a year before the 2027 General Election, with several aspirants positioning themselves to challenge incumbent MP Zaheer Jhanda. Jhanda, who won the seat on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) ticket in the 2022 election with 31,694 votes, is facing growing political pressure as local leaders and professionals begin early campaigns aimed at unseating him.
Kisumu Girls, Kakamega High Release Students as School Unrest Spreads
KISUMU, Kenya Jun 6 – Two national schools on Saturday directed parents and guardians to collect their children amid growing concern over rising cases of student unrest reported in schools across the country. Kisumu Girls High School informed parents that students would be released on Saturday morning following what the administration described as intelligence reports and heightened surveillance by the school management, Parents Association (PA) Executive and Board of Management (BOM).
President Ruto Lands at Waterkloof Air Force Base for Historic South Africa State Visit
NAIROBI, Kenya Jun 3 – President William Ruto has landed at the Waterkloof Air Force Base in South Africa ahead of his three-day State Visit aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between Kenya and South Africa. The visit, hosted by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, is expected to focus on enhancing bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, regional integration, peace and security, as well as broader continental development priorities.
Show More
loading
Actions
Get in touch with Simon
Contact Simon, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack