The acclaimed youth drama returns to screens on Citizen TV from February 10, unveiling a bold new season, an expanded cast and the franchise’s first-ever original soundtrack–‘25Flow’

The MTV Staying Alive Foundation (MTV SAF) officially marked the return of Season 2 of MTV Shuga Mashariki, with an exclusive premiere event held on Friday, 28th January in Nairobi at CCHUB.

The evening brought together the show’s cast and crew, creators, media and partners of MTV SAF for a celebration of Kenyan storytelling, youth culture and social impact.

Season 2 will officially broadcast on Citizen TV starting Tuesday, 10 February at 11 PM, with new episodes airing weekly. Episodes will also be released globally on the MTV Shuga YouTube channel from Wednesday, 11 February, expanding access to a global audience.

Returning for Season 2 is a powerhouse ensemble cast including Serah Wanjiru, Basil Mungai, Matthew Ngugi, Wilson Muchemi, Fatuma Gichuru, Juliebrenda Nyambura, Fridah Mumbe, Renee Gichuki and Mwende King’ori, with fan-favourite Brian Kabugi making a highly anticipated return in a major role.

The new season also introduces Vanessa Okeyo Aika, Marima Wanjiru, Natalia Kyalo, Jenny Muigai, Amalie Chopetta, Beatrice Kamuyu, Eunice Kamau and Tanzania’s Talie Gray, whose performances bring depth to MTV Shuga Mashariki’s evolving narrative.

In a first for the franchise, Season 2 is accompanied by an original soundtrack titled ‘25Flow’, developed as a standalone creative asset alongside the series. The project spotlights Kenyan artists and songwriters led by SoFresh, renowned music producer.

Their original music compositions and production will be woven directly into the story and film. 

Hosted by Miriam Bishar, who also stars in the series, the premiere event offered guests an immersive introduction to the new season. Attendees enjoyed exclusive first listens to music from the 25Flow project, alongside interactive panels that unpacked the creative journey behind the production and research-driven approach to its storytelling.

The space buzzed with energy as storytelling, sound and youth culture converged, creating a dynamic, atmosphere and experience that set a powerful tone for the highly anticipated new chapter of MTV Shuga Mashariki..

Set against the backdrop of campus life at Enkare University, Season 2 of MTV Shuga Mashariki dives deep into the complexities of young people navigating love, consent, identity and ambition in a digital age.

The season explores how technology, peer pressure and societal expectations collide with personal choice. From viral fame and body autonomy to toxic masculinity and sexual violence, the story follows interconnected lives as secrets unravel, friendships are tested and justice emerges as a powerful rallying cry.

Season 2 marks a significant creative milestone for the franchise through a partnership between MTV SAF and She Moves Africa Films, a women-led production company founded by award-winning producer and storyteller Dina Mwende, who steps into the role of Series Producer after serving as Associate Producer in Season 1.

The new season also welcomes Janet Chumbe as a new director, joining an accomplished Kenyan directorial team including June Ndinya, Mkaiwawi Mwakaba and Likarion Wainaina, who joined the series in Season 1, alongside Enos Olik, acclaimed cinematographer who also returns on the 2026 season. Together, they bring authentic storytelling, a wealth of experience and cultural insight to the production.

Produced by MTV SAF, the second season builds on the success of last year’s widely celebrated debut, reaffirming MTV Shuga Mashariki as one of Kenya’s most culturally resonant and impactful youth drama series. Continuing its tradition of using storytelling to spark meaningful change among Kenya’s youth, every storyline in Season 2 is grounded in local, youth-centred research and crafted to challenge restrictive norms and harmful social expectations. 

Drawing on extensive evidence that authentic, relatable storytelling can shift attitudes at scale, the new season promises to entertain while sparking meaningful conversation, reflection and action. As MTV Shuga Mashariki prepares to return to screens nationwide, Season 2 reaffirms the franchise’s enduring mission to amplify young voices, challenge harmful norms and harness the power of storytelling to inspire lasting impact.

Police in Mombasa have arrested a suspected violent robber after a disturbing video showing the attack of a watchman went viral on social media.

In a statement, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said the suspect was apprehended following a coordinated operation by officers from the Mombasa DCI Regional Headquarters, DCI Urban, and Tononoka Police Station.

"The suspect, who was captured in a widely circulated video attacking a watchman, was arrested after detectives launched an intensive manhunt aided by forensic leads,” the DCI said.

The footage shows the suspect, armed with a panga and in the company of an accomplice, attacking the watchman before fleeing with his mobile phone.

The incident sparked public outrage online, prompting swift police action.

According to the DCI, detectives tracked the suspect, identified as Salim Keya Ngesa, to a guest house in Bondeni ‘A’, where he had gone into hiding.

"Acting on forensic intelligence, detectives trailed the suspect to a guest house in Bondeni ‘A’ where he was arrested,” the DCI stated.

During the arrest, officers recovered several items believed to link the suspect to the crime.

"Police recovered six assorted mobile phones, a blood-stained panga, two knives, and a greyish kanzu matching the clothing seen in the CCTV footage,” the statement read.

The suspect is currently in police custody undergoing processing ahead of his arraignment in court.

“The suspect is now behind bars pending arraignment, while detectives continue pursuing his accomplice who is still at large,” the DCI said.

Police have assured the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the second suspect and urged members of the public to continue sharing credible information that may aid investigations.

The Port of Mombasa has recorded its highest cargo throughput in history, handling 45.45 million metric tonnes between January and December 2025, according to the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).

This represents a 10.9 per cent growth, equivalent to 4.46 million metric tonnes, compared to 2024 when the port handled 40.99 million metric tonnes, underscoring Mombasa’s growing role as a key regional maritime gateway.

Container traffic also registered notable growth, reaching 2.11 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs), up from 2.00 million TEUs in 2024 — an increase of 109,797 TEUs, or 5.5 per cent.

Speaking during a media briefing to release the Kenya Ports Authority performance outlook for 2025, KPA Managing Director Capt. William Ruto said the strong performance reflects increased trade activity and continued investments in port infrastructure.

“The Port of Mombasa has continued to register impressive growth across all key indicators, driven by rising demand, improved efficiency and sustained collaboration with industry players,” said Capt. Ruto.

Transit cargo mirrored the upward trend, rising to 15.88 million metric tonnes from 13.29 million metric tonnes in 2024, translating to a growth of 2.59 million metric tonnes, or 19.5 per cent.

Capt. Ruto noted that all port facilities under KPA recorded growth, with the Port of Lamu posting the highest percentage improvement.

The Port of Lamu handled 799,161 metric tonnes in 2025, a sharp increase from 74,380 metric tonnes recorded the previous year, largely driven by containerised cargo.

The port also processed 55,687 TEUs during the period.

“With more shipping lines introducing regular services at Lamu, this is a promise for increased cargo volumes through the port in the subsequent years,” Capt. Ruto said.

Significant gains were also recorded at the inland waterway port of Kisumu, which processed 496,516 metric tonnes in 2025, up from 295,516 metric tonnes in 2024 — representing a 55 per cent growth, or 163,085 metric tonnes.

The KPA Managing Director attributed the strong performance to ongoing and planned infrastructure upgrades aimed at meeting rising demand.

These include the expansion of berths and yard space, notably berths 19B, 23 and 24, which are expected to add an additional 1.4 million TEUs in capacity.

"We are investing heavily in infrastructure development to ensure our ports remain efficient and competitive in the region,” said Capt. Ruto.

He further disclosed that the upgrade of the Terminal Operating System is currently 40 per cent complete, while gate automation works at gates 23 and 24 have reached 60 per cent completion.

Acquisition and modernisation of equipment are also at an advanced stage, alongside enhanced collaboration with

Old Town MCA has announced plans to address ongoing concerns regarding services at Coast General Hospital and the management of solid waste fees, once the County Assembly resumes next month.

Highlighting poor service delivery and high charges at the hospital, the MCA said: “The services at Coast General Hospital are below standard, yet patients are forced to pay high fees for care that should be affordable. This is unacceptable, and it will be top of our agenda when the assembly reconvenes in February.”

The MCA also raised concerns over the monthly waste management charges levied on residents’ water bills, saying there is no transparency on how the funds are utilized.

“There are charges for waste management on the monthly water bill, but no one knows what that money is being used for. Some of us had rejected this fee in the past, and we will revisit it to ensure accountability,” he added.

He was speaking during an oversight public engagement forum for Mvita residents, organised by the office of the Mombasa Senator, where issues affecting the community were discussed.

Rising basketball star Linah Atieno has officially joined the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Women’s Basketball Team the Dockers, marking a major boost for the club ahead of the new season.

Atieno opted for KPA despite attracting multiple offers locally and abroad, choosing a pathway that allows her to pursue college education while continuing to play competitive basketball.

The decision, made in consultation with her family, has been widely celebrated across Changamwe, Kwale County and the wider Coast region.

Welcoming her to the team, KPA Dockers described Atieno as more than just a new signing.

“Today we don’t just add a player we add heart, hunger, and another weapon to our mission,” the club said in a statement.

“Her journey, her grind, and her love for the game speak for themselves, and we are proud to have her wear these colours.”

The Dockers emphasized that the club’s culture is built on discipline, sacrifice and daily commitment to excellence.

“This team is built on discipline, sacrifice, and the belief that greatness is earned every single day. From the first whistle to the final buzzer, we fight together, we grow together, and we win together,” the statement read.

“Her arrival raises our standard and strengthens our resolve.”

Atieno began her basketball journey at Gome Primary School in the NHC estate before joining Kaya Tiwi Secondary School in 2022, where her talent quickly stood out.

Her success has brought pride to NHC Changamwe, Kwale County Secondary Schools Sports Association (SSSA), the Coast Region SSSA, and the Kenya Secondary Schools Sports Association (KSSSA), as well as regional competitions under FEASSA.

On the international stage, she represented Kenya Under-16 at the East African Championships in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, in 2024, and is currently a member of the Kenya Under-18 national basketball team.

KPA Dockers said the young guard should brace for the demands of elite competition.

Get ready for hard work, loud gyms, tough battles and unforgettable moments. Here, we push limits, chase excellence and never settle for less,” the club added.

“The grind starts now, and the goal is clear.”

Described by coaches and mentors as young, disciplined and passionate, Atieno’s signing is viewed as a statement of intent by the Dockers and a powerful endorsement of grassroots talent development along the Coast.

“Once again, welcome to the family. Let’s make history, defend our pride and leave everything on the court,” the club concluded.

Safaricom has unveiled the final five winners of KES 1 million in its Shangwe @25 nationwide consumer promotion, bringing the total number of new millionaires to 25.

The final winners Quinter Akinyi Wanyama (Bungoma), Sheila Cherotich (Bomet), Fidel Mwendwa (Kitui), Geoffrey Mawira (Meru), and Grace Nyiva (Uthiru, Nairobi) join 20 other Kenyans whose lives have been changed through the promotion.

In a move that extends the impact beyond individual households, each winner also received an additional KES 250,000 to fund a community project of their choice, ensuring that their good fortune creates a ripple effect of positive change where it matters most.

Over the course of the promotion, more than five million customers across the country walked away with prizes, worth KES 250 million, a powerful reflection of Safaricom’s commitment to sharing its success with the people and communities who have been part of its journey for 25 years.

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Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa thanked customers for their participation and highlighted the campaign’s impact in transforming lives across the country.

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“I am truly delighted to see how successful Shangwe @25 has been and the positive impact it has created for millions of Kenyans. We have created 25 millionaires, with more than five million customers nationwide winning prizes worth a total of KES 250 million. This campaign reflects Safaricom’s ongoing commitment to transforming lives, empowering our customers, and supporting communities across the country,” said Ndegwa.

Safaricom launched the Shangwe @25 nationwide consumer promotion in October last year (2025) to reward customers as the company marked 25 years of transforming lives.

The campaign offered a wide range of prizes including cash, electronic devices, household appliances, shopping vouchers, goats, chickens, and other gifts.

Grace Nyiva, one of the final winners from Uthiru, Nairobi, was overwhelmed with joy after receiving her KES 1 million cheque from Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa.

The 23-year-old single mother sells sausages and smokies at the local market and also works as a cleaner at a nearby club to support her child. She described the win as a miracle.

“I cannot really describe how happy I am. Life has been very difficult for me and my child. Even putting food on the table or paying school fees has been a struggle. I work two jobs just to survive. Out of millions of Kenyans, Safaricom found me here in Uthiru. It is God,” said Grace.

Grace plans to set up a cereal shop for her mother, pay her daughter’s school fees, and enroll in college to study IT.

For her community project, she has committed KES 250,000 to support unemployed youth by providing salon and car wash equipment.

Her goal is to help reduce drug and alcohol abuse while creating income opportunities.

In Webuye, 38-year-old Quinter Akinyi Wanyama is still in disbelief after receiving her KES 1 million cheque.

At first, she thought the call was a scam until she received confirmation from Safaricom.

A mother of five, Quinter runs a welding workshop with her husband.

She plans to purchase new equipment, expand the business and pay school fees for her children, including one in university and High School.

“ I use M-PESA for almost all my transactions. At first, I doubted the win, but now I truly believe because I am holding my cheque. I will use part of the money to restock the welding shop I run with my husband, and also pay school fees for my children, one in university and another in high school.” Said Quinter Akinyi.

She has committed KES 250,000 to Mahanga PEFA School to purchase lockers, teachers’ chairs, and a printer.

Just like the other winners, in Bomet County, 21-year-old Sheila Cherotich was overcome with emotion after receiving her KES 1 million cheque.

The young mother works as a sales agent selling M-KOPA phones at Chebunyo Centre.

With her KES 1 million prize, she plans to buy land and build a house for her mother, start a clothing and shoe business, and support her brother’s education something she has always wished to do.

“The Shangwe @25 win is not just a financial boost, it is an opportunity to transform my family’s future and make a lasting impact in my community. I plan to purchase a piece of land and build a house for my mother, something I have always dreamed of but could not afford. Thanks to Safaricom, this has now become possible. I am truly grateful, as from today, my life will never be the same,” said Sheila Cherotich.

She will use her KES 250,000 community fund to support a water project at Chebunyo Health Centre by installing water tanks.

In Kitui County, Fidel Mwendwa Kavinya, a 25-year-old mechanic and one of the final millionaires in Safaricom’s Shangwe @25 promotion, was overjoyed after receiving the life-changing call.

"As an orphan from a young age, I have faced many struggles. I have been working for others, and I am currently employed as a mechanic. I never imagined that one day God would bless me with a million shillings at this age. This is truly life-changing for me, as I will use the money to open my own workshop, earn independently, and grow my future. I was a bit doubtful at first, but now it is real, I am a young millionaire in town,” said Fidel Mwendwa.

Inspired by his own experiences growing up without parental support, Fidel has chosen to give back through his community project.

He will use KES 250,000 to support Timboni Tiva Children’s Home in Kitui County, aiming to improve the welfare of vulnerable children and provide them with the care and opportunities he once longed for.

Meanwhile, 52-year-old Geoffrey Mawira Muguongo, a resident of Mujwa Village in Meru County, could hardly contain his joy upon receiving KES 1 million in the Shangwe @25 consumer promotion.

A single father of two, a boy and a girl, Geoffrey lives with a disability and works as a cobbler and shoe seller in Nkubu town, doubling his income with a barbershop, a trade he has pursued for many years to support his family.

Geoffrey plans to expand his workshop and buy a shoe-making machine to create opportunities for more disabled people in his business.  

With the KES 250,000 community project fund, Geoffrey has chosen to support Mujwa traders by purchasing tents for hire.

Through this initiative, he hopes to give back to his community while creating income opportunities, especially for traders living with disabilities.

Beyond the individual KES 1 million winners, Safaricom also awarded 6 enterprise customers including, Peter Kamau (Snaap Kenya Limited), Alex Karanja (Robstar Premium Fit LTD), Ketan Patel (Ronak Distributors), Robert Nyakundi, Fredrick Miruka and Justin Kareri (EBee Mobility) with stock valued at KES 250,000 each to accelerate growth and strengthen operations.

Additionally, Leonard Oongo (Almervic Hardware), Alex Wasike (Ryattah Medical Center), and Milenah Mwarashu (Nona Millz) won Tuk-Tuk pickups to support their business logistics.

Coast ODM leaders have welcomed the appointment of Dr. Ida Odinga as Kenya’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), praising President William Ruto for recognizing her dedication to public service.

Speaking to the press on Saturday, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir described the appointment as a national milestone.

“The appointment of Ida Odinga is not just for herself but for all of us as a country because of what she has done since her days as a teacher. Kenya has got the right person for the position. She will put Kenya on the world radarher work speaks for itself." said Nassir.

Adding "President William Ruto has done a wise thing, and this is proof of his goodwill towards the ODM party and the broader political formation. If we recall during Raila Odinga’s funeral, the President promised he would not abandon the Odinga family. This continues that legacy, and he has truly done that."

Likoni MP Mishi Mboko, speaking on behalf of the ODM Coast Women League, added“We congratulate Dr. Ida Odinga for her appointment as ambassador and permanent representative at UNEP. This is a recognition of a woman whose life has been marked by dedication in public and civil service. She has consistently stood firm against violations and championed women empowerment."

Adding "We also convey our appreciation to President William Ruto for appointing and recognizing Mama Ida. As women at the Coast, we take pride in her achievement; it is a motivation for all of us. Mama Ida stood with her late husband Raila Odinga for half of her life fighting for the rights of Kenyans. She has all it takes, and we wish her the very best.”

On her part Hanifa Mwajirani, Majority Leader of the Kwale County Assembly, echoed the sentiment.

“We really appreciate President Ruto for appointing Mama Ida. As ODM women, we are grateful for this recognition, and Mama Ida deserves the appointment. The President has stood by the spirit of a broad-based government through this appointment, and we call for more appointments from ODM in future.”

Jomvu MP Badi Twalib has come out strongly to defend Suna East MP Junet Mohamed, dismissing ongoing criticism against him as malicious and politically motivated.

Twalib said the attacks were aimed at tarnishing Junet’s name despite his long-standing loyalty and service within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

“Those going around attacking Junet are just mischievous people who want to distort the truth,” Twalib said.

“Raila Odinga trusted Junet immensely and that is why he was always by his side in meetings, rallies and critical political engagements.”

The Jomvu legislator noted that Junet’s appointment as Leader of Minority in the National Assembly was a clear demonstration of the confidence Raila Odinga had in him.

He added that such trust was earned through consistency, discipline and commitment to the party’s ideals.

“You don’t get entrusted with such responsibility by accident. Raila knew who Junet was and what he stood for,” Twalib said.

Twalib argued that the political narrative around Junet would be very different had the 2022 presidential election gone the other way.

"If Raila Odinga had won the election, the same Junet would today be celebrated as a hero who delivered victory,” he said, urging Junet to ignore the criticism. “Junet should not be bothered by the noise. History will judge fairly.”

Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has underscored the government’s commitment to combating alcohol, drug and substance abuse at the Coast through youth empowerment and digital inclusion initiatives.

Omolo said the fight against drug abuse requires a whole-of-society approach, with deliberate efforts to keep young people engaged, productive and away from idleness.

“The fight against alcohol, drug and substance abuse, especially in the Coast region, is a collective responsibility, and as government we are intentionally creating opportunities that keep our youth busy, skilled and economically empowered,” Omolo said, citing digital skills development as a key intervention.

In a statement, Omollo highlighted the Jitume Digital Hub at the Coast National Polytechnic as a practical demonstration of this commitment, noting that about 800 students and community members have already benefited from the programme.

“Through Jitume and Ajira Digital, young people are being equipped with relevant skills that open pathways to decent work and self-reliance in the digital economy,” he said.

Omollo added that as the programme expands, the State Department for Internal Security and National Administration will play a critical role in safeguarding the digital space.

“We have a responsibility to ensure cybersecurity and protect learners and online workers, so that innovation and digital jobs thrive in a safe and trusted environment,” he said.

Saphire Hotel has officially launched a state-of-the-art gym and spa, marking a major milestone in its commitment to wellness-focused hospitality in Mombasa.

The new facilities are designed to meet high international standards, offering guests and residents a modern space that promotes fitness, balance, and overall wellbeing.

Saphire Hotel Managing Director Inaara Jiwan said the launch represents a significant transformation for both the hotel and the city.

“This launch marks a new chapter not only for Saphire Hotel, but also for Mombasa a chapter centred on wellness, balance, and community. As guests walk through our wellness centre, our hope is to inspire motivation, confidence, and a true sense of belonging,” she said.

On his part the Hotel General Manager John Yegon said the opening of the gym responds to long-standing demand from guests and the hotel’s identity.

"Saphire Hotel has always been synonymous with fitness, and there has been consistent pressure to reopen the gym. This initiative is also about encouraging healthy living and giving our guests facilities that support both physical and mental wellbeing,” he said.

The gym is equipped with modern fitness equipment, including air bikes and stair climbers, offering advanced cardio options for fitness enthusiasts.

The spa provides professional wellness treatments tailored to both leisure and business travellers.