Inferno in our schools: Kenya's long trail of dormitory deaths

As we mourn the death of at least 10 students at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, we reflect on some of the darkest moments in our educational history.

By Steve Mkawale 2 months ago

Tragedy as dorm fire kills at least 10 students at Utumishi Girls High School

At least 10 students at Utumishi Girls High School in Gilgil, Nakuru County, have died in a dormitory fire that broke out at about 2.00 am.

By Steve Mkawale 2 months ago

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How transporters' strike, demos threw more fuel to ethnic flames

Politicians have characterised the fuel strike as sabotage by a certain community. Analysts have warned that tribal exchanges could push the country to the brink.

By Steve Mkawale 3 months ago

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Former Nakuru Governor Lee Kinyanjui plots 2027 political comeback

Lee Kinyanjui has triggered a flurry of speculation through a social media post, signalling a calculated political manoeuvre ahead of the 2027 General Election.

By Steve Mkawale 3 months ago

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Rights group opposes Ruto's support for Justice Ndung'u's ICC position

The Geneva-based Institute of Human Rights has criticised President William Ruto's efforts to back Supreme Court Justice Njoki Ndung'u for a position on the ICC bench.

By Steve Mkawale 3 months ago

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This man Cherarkey: The loud, unapologetic Ruto loyalist

Samson Kiprotich Cherarkey has built a reputation as a vocal and controversial ally of William Ruto, known for his combative style and bold political positions.

By Steve Mkawale 3 months ago

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Election 2027: Why Governor Kihika is walking a tight rope

Governor Susan Kihika's re-election bid in Nakuru is under threat as the breakdown of the Kikuyu-Kalenjin political alliance reshapes local power dynamics.

By Steve Mkawale 4 months ago

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'Maandamano Tuesday': Fuel prices, cost of living push opposition, Gen Z back to the streets

Opposition leaders and Gen Z activists have called for nationwide protests over rising fuel prices and the cost of living, escalating political tensions with demands for President Ruto's early exit.

By Steve Mkawale 4 months ago

'Ngong': The fearless, controversial MP

Ngeno, popularly known as 'Ngong', was serving his third term in Parliament. He was a fiery and often controversial politician, known for frequent run-ins with the law and his party leadership.

By Steve Mkawale 5 months ago

MP Ngeno dies in a helicopter crash

"The helicopter and briefly, because of bad weather, and then after a short while, took off," he said.

By Steve Mkawale 5 months ago

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Nakuru misses out as Kiambu bags Sh1.6bn World Bank cash

Of the Sh6.7 billion World Bank funds for the Kenya Urban Support Programme allocated across 35 counties and 62 municipalities, Kiambu received the largest share.

By Steve Mkawale 5 months ago

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Young Turks vs Old Guard: How youth uprising is shaking country's politics

Ahead of the 2027 elections, seasoned Kenyan leaders are clashing with youth activists as political mobilisation and alliance-building intensifies.

By Steve Mkawale 6 months ago

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Rifts emerge as political alliances in Nakuru face Damacus moment

The 2013 political pact between Kalenjin and Kikuyu communities living in Nakuru County faces a litmus test due to escalating spats between leaders from both sides

By Steve Mkawale 6 months ago

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Dishonourable waste: MPs feast in luxury as Kenyans are punished with more taxes

Naivasha retreat cost millions, prompting public outrage and widespread criticism.

By Steve Mkawale 6 months ago

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Nakuru becomes new battleground as UDA moves to counter Gachagua's forays

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua's planned tour of Nakuru County has triggered a series of high-level political "consultative meetings" among UDA politicians.

By Steve Mkawale 6 months ago

Petition filed to stop Rironi-Mau Summit road construction

A petition seeking to stop the construction of Rironi-Nakuru-Mau Summit Road has been filed at the High Court in Nakuru.

By Steve Mkawale 8 months ago

Ruto celebrates broad-based government victory as UDA, ODM sweep key by-election seats

President William Ruto thumped his chest on Friday after the broad-based government clinched seven parliamentary seats in the just-concluded by-elections

By Steve Mkawale 8 months ago

Rironi-Mau Summit highway no longer a dream as Ruto set to launch the project

President William Ruto will today launch the construction of the highway that is part of the Northern Corridor network.

By Steve Mkawale 8 months ago

Ruto visits Gideon at Kabarak

President William Ruto arrives at Kabarak Farm in Nakuru County to be hosted by KANU chairperson Gideon Moi, a day after Gideon withdrew from the Baringo Senate race.

By Steve Mkawale 10 months ago

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Matiang'i's bid tests politics without tribal party footing

Supporters hail Matiang'i as a reformist visionary; critics dismiss him as another elite-backed 'political project'.

By Steve Mkawale 10 months ago

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2027 elections: Will birth of new opposition upset the apple cart?

These new politicians are counting on the backing they receive on social media and the pro-people agendas they advocate.

By Steve Mkawale 11 months ago

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Is Ruto-Raila pact genuine unity or convenient game to retain power?

Critics accuse Ruto of playing politics while Raila's detractors says he is an opportunist.

By Steve Mkawale 11 months ago

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Japan unveils new Africa strategy to rival China's growing influence

Japan pledged to work on nurturing experts in artificial intelligence to assist African countries in achieving economic growth and addressing social challenges.

By Steve Mkawale 11 months ago

TICAD 9 concludes, reaffirming the importance of multilateral trade

The government secured Sh22 billion for automotive and energy sector.Kenyan health sector has attracted Japanese investment.

By Steve Mkawale 11 months ago

Kenya seals Sh22 billion deals at Tokyo conference on Africa

National Automotive Policy will receive up to Sh13b; Sh5b goes towards procurement of transformers while budget support gets Sh4b.

By Steve Mkawale 11 months ago

Kenya signs Sh21.7 billion automotive and energy deal with Japan

Japan has extended up to Sh21.7 billion (25 billion yen) in Samurai financing to Kenya to support the country's vehicle assembly and energy sectors.

By Steve Mkawale 1 year ago

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Kenya targets funds from Japan through Samurai Bond issuance

Kenya will raise funds from Japanese capital markets through issuing a Samurai Bond as the government diversifies financing options for development, shifting away from traditional donor dependency.

By Steve Mkawale 1 year ago

Ruto calls for enhanced Intra-Africa trade to combat extreme poverty

President William Ruto has emphasized the need for increased intra-African trade through the effective implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

By Steve Mkawale 1 year ago

Ruto seeks to enhance cooperation with Japan in education, manufacturing, sports

President William Ruto used the TICAD-9 to advocate for enhanced cooperation with Japan in areas such as education, manufacturing, sports, and technology to strengthen economic resilience.

By Steve Mkawale 1 year ago

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DP Kindiki's national economic empowerment programme stirs debate

These initiatives continue to stir controversy in Kenya's political landscape, raising questions about the source of the funding.

By Steve Mkawale 1 year ago

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Uhuru shadow looms large over 2027 General Election

All the country's top politicians contend the former president is unlikely to be a bystander. It is against this that analysts are keenly watching Uhuru's behind-the-scenes moves.

By Steve Mkawale 1 year ago

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Police impunity raises 2027 polls violence risk, rights groups warn

The failure of successive governments to ensure accountability for police human rights violations has significantly heightened the risk of misconduct during the 2027 General Election.

By Steve Mkawale 1 year ago

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From polio to parliament: The political comeback of ODM's Harold Kipchumba

Newly nominated MP's life is a testament of power of determination in overcoming obstacles.

By Steve Mkawale 1 year ago

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Why Rift Valley's political spine has cracked

The region was known for producing leaders who were unafraid to challenge State. Now, analysts say, it has been reduced to blind Executive loyalty and misogynistic rhetoric

By Steve Mkawale 1 year ago

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President Ruto's fragile reign battered by protests, mistrust

Chants of "Ruto Must Go" and "Wantam" have dominated public events and gatherings, clearly indicating that the masses have lost hope in his leadership.

By Steve Mkawale 1 year ago

Gen Z rekindles Saba Saba spirit, calls for reform, good governance

Gen Z activists advocating for good governance in Kenya plan to hold marches on Monday to commemorate Saba Saba Day, reviving the spirit of the country's second liberation struggle.

By Steve Mkawale 1 year ago

Rights group condemns police brutality as Kenya marks Anti-Torture Day

As the world observed the International Day in Support of Torture Victims on Thursday, human rights defenders have urged the Kenyan government to respect the rights of citizens to protest.

By Steve Mkawale 1 year ago

DCP challenges Ruto grip in Nakuru as ethnic rift widens ahead of 2027

Many voters are drifting from President Ruto's UDA after Rigathi Gachagua's impeachment. Analysts warn DCP against self-serving leaders who may damage its image and unity.

By Steve Mkawale 1 year ago

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City on edge: Sakaja under fire ahead of June 25 protests

Sakaja has been accused of sponsoring thugs who caused chaos during the protests against police brutality.

By Steve Mkawale 1 year ago

Copyright Board Denies MCSK Operating Licence

The Kenya Copyright Board has withheld the issuance of an operating licence to the Music Copyright Society of Kenya.

By Steve Mkawale 1 year ago