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.

Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director Captain William Ruto have reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing efficiency at the Port of Mombasa.

The two made the remarks during a high-level stakeholder engagement forum held at the port, bringing together key players across the maritime and logistics sector.

Mr. Wattanga said the collaboration between KRA and KPA is central to improving service delivery and strengthening Kenya’s position as a regional trade hub.

“Our focus is on streamlining processes, reducing cargo dwell time, and ensuring faster customs clearance without compromising compliance,” he noted, adding that efficiency at the port directly impacts the cost of doing business.

Captain Ruto emphasized that the Port of Mombasa remains a critical gateway for the region and that sustained reforms are necessary to meet growing demand.

“We are working closely with KRA and other stakeholders to strengthen port operations and improve cargo evacuation, especially for long-stay containers,” he said.

“These measures are aimed at delivering a seamless experience for our customers.”

The forum brought together shipping lines, clearing and forwarding agents under the Kenya International Freight and Warehousing Association (KIFWA), transporters, and other maritime industry players.

Both agencies recently rolled out joint interventions designed to expedite cargo clearance and reinforce the Northern Corridor’s competitiveness as the region’s primary trade artery, with stakeholders encouraged to support the reforms for collective growth

The Governments of Kenya and Rwanda have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to officially operationalize the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Kigali Liaison Office, in a move aimed at strengthening regional trade and logistics cooperation.

The MoU was signed in Kigali by Principal Secretary for the State Department for Transport, Mr. Mohamed Daghar, and Rwanda’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Infrastructure, CPA Canoth Manishimwe.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, CPA Manishimwe underscored the critical role played by KPA in facilitating regional trade, particularly for Rwandan businesses that rely on the Port of Mombasa as a key gateway.

“The signing of this MoU is a positive step towards enhancing bilateral relations between Rwanda and Kenya, while ensuring that our business community enjoys efficient and reliable port services,” he said.

Mr. Daghar noted that the operationalization of the Kigali liaison office reflects the two governments’ shared commitment to deepening regional integration and strengthening East Africa’s logistics corridors.

“This MoU embodies our joint resolve to expand Kenya’s and Rwanda’s strategic role in the region’s maritime and inland logistics network, with the Port of Mombasa remaining a critical pillar,” he stated.

Kenya Ports Authority Managing Director Captain William Ruto said the Authority is continuing to streamline port operations and improve service delivery to support growing regional cargo volumes.

“Rwanda remains one of our key transit markets, and the steady growth in cargo through the Port of Mombasa demonstrates the confidence our regional partners have in KPA’s efficiency and capacity,” he said.

Deputy Government Spokesperson Mwanaisha Chidzuga has officially registered as a candidate for the Kwale County Woman Representative seat in the 2027 General Election through the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, marking her entry into elective politics at the county level.

Speaking after her registration, Chidzuga said she was ready to serve the people of Kwale by executing the mandate of the office with integrity, fairness, and inclusivity.

“I am prepared to take up this responsibility and serve the people of Kwale with justice and equality, ensuring that every voice is heard,” she said.

The former Tv News Anchor noted that her decision to vie for the seat under the UDA party is driven by a desire to strengthen development and social empowerment initiatives across the county.

“I am ready to represent the people of Kwale as Woman Representative in 2027, Insha’Allah,” she stated.

She has been at the forefront of community development and grassroots mobilization, particularly in women empowerment, access to SHA services, education, and social cohesion.

According to Chidzuga, these focus areas will remain central to her agenda as she seeks the Kwale Woman Representative seat on a UDA ticket.

The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has issued a public warning over a surge in recruitment scams targeting unsuspecting job seekers, cautioning the public against fraudsters falsely claiming to offer employment opportunities at the Authority.

In a public notice, KPA said the scammers are impersonating senior management, staff, or posing as agents and brokers, with the aim of extorting money from desperate job seekers.

"KPA does not solicit, demand or accept any form of payment at any stage of its recruitment process,” the Authority stated, emphasizing that all hiring is conducted through a transparent, merit-based and structured system.

The Authority reiterated that it is an equal opportunity employer and that any claims of paid job placements linked to KPA are fraudulent.

The Authority further urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected recruitment fraud to the nearest police station.

“We advise the public to refrain from sharing personal information or making payments to individuals claiming to facilitate employment at KPA,” the statement added, noting that the Authority will not be held liable for losses arising from such scams.

The Cabinet Secretary for Mining and Blue Economy, Hon. Ali Hassan Joho, together with the Principal Secretary for the State Department for Mining, Harry Kimtai, led a delegation on an inspection tour of the Maritime Survival Training and Certification Centre at Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA).

The visit forms part of the Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening Kenya’s Maritime and Blue Economy sector through the development of world-class training infrastructure and capacity building for seafarers and maritime professionals.

The delegation was received by the Chairman of the BMA Board of Directors, Eng. Lung’anzi Chai Mangale, accompanied by Board Directors Joab Tumbo and Ahmed Elyass, and BMA Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Eric Katana, together with members of the Academy’s senior management team.

During the tour, CS Joho and PS Kimtai were taken through the facility’s key training components, including survival-at-sea modules, firefighting simulations, personal safety training, emergency response procedures, and certification processes aligned with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and STCW Convention standards.

The leaders commended BMA for its role in building a skilled maritime workforce and reaffirmed the Government’s support for continued investment in maritime education, safety training, and the growth of the Blue Economy, noting that institutions such as BMA are critical to positioning Kenya as a regional Maritime hub.

The Maritime Survival Training and Certification Centre is a flagship facility designed to enhance safety standards in the maritime sector while ensuring Kenyan seafarers are globally competitive and fully compliant with international requirements.