Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has declared that the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) will aggressively pursue a share of executive power in the next general election.

Speaking during an interview on Citizen TV, Nassir admitted that the party is still grappling with the political vacuum left by Odinga, describing it as a major setback.

"The loss of Baba was a big blow to our political formation and it’s difficult to fill his shoes,” he said.

The ODM deputy party leader, however, emphasized that the party is now focused on rebuilding and repositioning itself ahead of the next electoral cycle.

"As we rebuild, we will push for the position of Deputy President in the coalition talks,” Nassir stated, adding that the party intends to secure a meaningful stake in government.

He further explained that the final decision on who will carry the party’s interests at that level will rest with ODM’s internal structures.

“Our ODM party organs will decide the most viable candidate for the role,” he said.

Nassir nonetheless openly expressed his personal preference, backing former Mombasa Governor and current Cabinet Secretary Hassan Ali Joho for the position.

"My personal preference is Ali Hassan Joho. I believe he has the requisite experience and political stature, but we will abide by the decision of the party,” he added.

His remarks echo growing momentum within ODM’s Coast leadership, which has increasingly rallied behind Joho as a preferred candidate for the deputy presidency in 2027.

Kadzandani MCA Fatma Kushe has sharply criticized Mombasa Woman Representative Zamzam Mohamed, questioning her leadership approach and the impact of the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF).

Speaking during a recent engagement in her ward, Kushe accused the Woman Representative of prioritizing publicity over meaningful service delivery, arguing that residents are yet to feel the full benefits of NGAAF programs.

"Leadership is about service to the people, not constant public relations. We need to see real impact on the ground, especially from NGAAF,” Kushe said.

The MCA took issue with what she described as increased focus on social media visibility, claiming that some initiatives appear staged for online platforms rather than delivering lasting solutions to residents.

"Visiting vulnerable families with large teams just to record and share content does not solve their problems. Our people deserve dignity and genuine support,” she added.

Kushe emphasized that her remarks were not personal but aimed at pushing for accountability and better utilization of public resources.

"I have nothing personal against her, but the people of Mombasa deserve to see tangible results. Leaders were entrusted with these offices to serve, and that must remain the priority,” she stated.

Mombasa leaders have closed ranks in defence of Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho, declaring him fit for the Deputy President position while calling for unity across the Coast region.

Speaking during an Eid baraza held on Sunday in Mombasa, the leaders dismissed recent remarks by Hassan Omar Hassan, the EALA MP and UDA Secretary General, who last week questioned Joho’s suitability for the country’s second-highest office.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir led the onslaught, urging Coast residents to remain united and rally behind one of their own.

“Our unity as the people of the Coast region is our strength. When we say Hassan Joho is fit to be the Deputy President, we have proof and facts, he has been tested and proven,” Nassir said. “Our irreducible demand is that the seat of the Deputy President should come from ODM, and as the people of the Coast region, we say this seat should come to us.”

The governor cautioned leaders against undermining others, saying such behavior weakens the region’s political influence.

“Do not demean the dreams of others. Your light will not be brighter by diminishing the light of others,” he added.

EALA MP Suleiman Shahbal used a metaphor to emphasize Joho’s political weight, likening him to a lion ready for battle.

“You cannot take a cat to a fight, you only take a lion. And the lion from the Coast region is Hassan Joho,” Shahbal said.

Adding “We are not asking for favors. It is the numbers you bring to the table that will determine the next Deputy President.”

He criticized leaders from the region opposing Joho’s bid, terming such actions self-defeating.

“If you are from the Coast region and you are fighting your colleague, then you are not normal,” he said.

Changamwe MP Omar Mwinyi called for tolerance and respect for individual ambitions.

“There is nothing wrong with someone following their dreams. Let’s stop acting like children. If you keep fighting everyone and demeaning them, then there is something wrong,” he said.

Mombasa Woman Representative Zamzam Mohammed reaffirmed her support for Joho, assuring him of political backing from the grassroots.

“To my brother Hassan Joho, count on our support. We are with you in this journey, and they will know that you have foot soldiers behind you. Those fighting you have no agenda,” she said.

Likoni MP Mishi Mboko stressed the need for unity, warning that divisions would cost the region a chance at national leadership.

“If we are divided, then we are the ones to lose. Even our religion teaches us to be united,” she said. “It is very sad that someone from the Coast stands before people and claims that another from the region lacks capacity to be Deputy President.”

Mboko highlighted Joho’s political track record, noting his experience as a Member of Parliament, Assistant Minister, Governor, and now Cabinet Secretary.

“What other skills are we looking for? He understands our challenges jobs, land issues and how to address them. We need power, and we will get it through unity,” she added.

Kisauni MP Rashid Bedzimba echoed similar sentiments, warning that internal divisions were undermining the region’s long-standing grievances of marginalization.

“We have been complaining about discrimination for a long time, but now it is turning out that we are enemies of our own,” he said. “Why fight someone who wants to climb to the position of Deputy President?”

Bedzimba noted that the Coast region has historically had limited representation in top national positions and said the moment should not be squandered.

“We now have a chance, and we should stand united. Let’s not justify those who say we cannot deliver,” he added.

On his part Mvita Mp Mohammed Machele also urged leaders to avoid internal conflicts and instead support Joho’s ambitions.

“Let’s not be our own enemies as the people of the Coast region. We have one of our own who has declared interest—why should someone from here fight him and support someone from elsewhere?” he posed.

The leaders maintained that the Coast region must consolidate its political voice ahead of the 2027 general election, insisting that unity will be key in negotiating for top national positions.

Dr. Mandla Lamba, CEO of Treadway, a Hong Kong-based investment banking firm, has been nominated for the esteemed World CEO Award rankings.

This honor recognizes exceptional leadership among chief executives worldwide.

As CEO, Dr. Lamba has played a key role in managing Treadway’s global operations, fostering innovation in investment banking, and establishing the firm as a trusted name in international finance.

His nomination highlights not only his strategic vision but also his dedication to sustainable growth and strong corporate governance.

“This nomination is a testament to the dedication of our entire team at Treadway,” said Dr. Lamba. “It reflects our shared goal of building a company rooted in integrity, innovation, and global teamwork.”

The World CEO Award is considered one of the most prestigious honors in corporate leadership, celebrating leaders who excel in governance, innovation, and making a global impact.

Dr. Lamba’s inclusion in the rankings places him among a select group of executives whose work has made a significant difference in their industries.

Industry experts note that Dr. Lamba’s leadership style combines strategic vision with a focus on sustainable growth, positioning Treadway as a strong competitor in the investment banking sector.

His recognition is seen as proof of the firm’s growing influence and his personal commitment to excellence.

The final rankings for the World CEO Award are expected to be announced later this year, with excitement building over which leaders will be recognized for their contributions to global business.

Treadway is a Hong Kong-based investment banking firm specializing in global financial advisory, capital markets, and strategic investment solutions.

With a focus on innovation and integrity, Treadway serves clients worldwide, helping them navigate complex financial markets and achieve sustainable growth.

Hundreds of Mombasa residents who had been detained in public hospitals over unpaid medical bills are finally reuniting with their families in time to celebrate Eid al-Fitr, following a county-backed intervention that cleared their debts.

The three-day initiative, which concluded today, facilitated the discharge of patients who had completed treatment but remained confined due to outstanding bills.

In total, 480 patients at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital benefited from the program.

The effort was made possible through a partnership between the county government and donors, including the Shariff Nassir Foundation, who stepped in to fully settle the pending balances.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir described the move as a timely and compassionate gesture during the Eid festivities.

He directed health facility managers and local administrators to ensure the immediate discharge of all eligible patients, emphasizing that the support was extended to all, regardless of background or religious affiliation.

Beneficiaries and their families expressed overwhelming gratitude, noting that the intervention had restored not just their freedom but also the opportunity to celebrate the holiday together at home.

Jimmy Mumbo, who had been admitted on January 4, 2026, following an accident in Bombolulu, remained hospitalized for weeks after undergoing surgery. With a bill totaling Sh190,000, his discharge had been impossible—until now.

“I want to thank the Governor for clearing our bills. My family will be surprised and overjoyed. They will wonder where I got the money,” Mumbo said.

His sister, Mnyazi Mumbo, said the family had been anxiously waiting for help.

“We were stuck here with no way out, hoping for a well-wisher. Back home, our family will be overjoyed because they did not know when they would see him again,” she said.

Paul Njuguna, a long-term diabetes patient, was admitted earlier this week after a fall at home that left him with a broken foot. His bill had already exceeded Sh50,000.

“I sincerely thank the Governor. I had no means to clear the bill,” Njuguna said.

Samuel Kinyua also expressed appreciation after his relative was discharged under the program.

Meanwhile, John Ngugi, who suffered a fracture while at work, had received partial support through the Social Health Authority (SHA), which covered Sh336,000 of his Sh444,000 hospital bill.

However, the remaining Sh108,000 had left him stranded in hospital for over a month.

“I am thankful,” Ngugi said.

The port city of Mombasa has received a major tourism boost following the arrival of the luxury cruise vessel MV Viking Sky, which docked early Thursday morning carrying 789 passengers and 476 crew members.

The vessel’s second call to Mombasa marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s growing cruise tourism sector, coming as the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) anticipates two more cruise ship arrivals before the end of the current season.

Operated by Viking Ocean Cruises, the ship sailed from the Seychelles and is expected to remain in Mombasa for three days before proceeding with its onward journey.

During this period, most of the passengers are expected to tour Kenya’s national parks and other tourist attractions, providing a much-needed boost to the local tourism economy.

Tourism stakeholders have welcomed the extended stay, noting that it presents a valuable opportunity to enhance visitor experiences while generating revenue across the hospitality and travel sectors.

Speaking during the vessel’s reception, KPA Manager of Security Services, Tony Kibwana, who represented Managing Director Captain William Ruto, said the arrival plays a critical role in positioning both Mombasa and Kenya as leading cruise tourism destinations.

“The arrival of this vessel underscores the importance of Mombasa and the country in terms of handling cruise passengers. We look forward to more vessels arriving in the coming months,” said Kibwana.

Also present was the Director General of the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), Professor Erustus Kanga, who described the visit as a strong indicator of Kenya’s rising profile along the Indian Ocean cruise circuit.

"Today’s arrival is not just another cruise stop; each vessel and every visitor reflects increasing global confidence in Kenya as a safe, diverse, and experience-rich destination,” said Kanga.

He added that KWS has introduced attractive incentives aimed at promoting the cruise tourism segment, with expectations that more visitors will explore Kenya’s renowned game parks.

“This moment also offers an opportunity to showcase a unique tourism model—one that seamlessly connects our coastal heritage with our world-renowned wildlife experiences,” he noted.

The latest visit by MV Viking Sky comes exactly one year after its maiden call to Mombasa, when it arrived with 845 passengers and 469 crew members. Its return further cements Mombasa’s position as an emerging hub for cruise liners in the region.

The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has marked a major milestone at the Lamu Port following the arrival of the largest car carrier vessel Grande Florida Palermo,to ever dock at the facility, delivering over 3,000 vehicles.

Speaking on Wednesday at the Lamu port, KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto described the shipment as a significant boost to the port’s growing profile in the region.

“This has carried the highest number of cars. This ship arrived yesterday and will be sailing tomorrow afternoon,” said Ruto.

He noted that the port is currently operating at an impressive efficiency level, with a daily discharge rate of up to 1,500 vehicles.

"Our average discharge per day is 1,500, which is at the highest. The port is now up to its capacity in terms of cargo, and we are expecting several vessels in the next week,” he added.

The latest arrival comes just a week after Lamu Port received its first-ever car carrier, signaling a rapid increase in activity and confidence in the facility.

“Last week we received our first car carrier, and this is the second with the highest number. No other port in the regioj has ever handled this kind of shipment of cars,” Ruto said.

He emphasized that the developments position Lamu Port as an emerging key logistics hub, not just for Kenya but for the wider East and Central African region.

“I want to assure everyone that this port is going to be transformed and turn into a major hub in the region,” he stated.

Ruto further revealed that the port’s expansion is already translating into tangible benefits for the local community, particularly in job creation.

"In a day, we give job opportunities to 150 locals,” he said, adding that more opportunities are expected as operations scale up.

Looking ahead, the KPA boss projected significant changes within the next six months, particularly in infrastructure development and economic growth around Lamu.

“Expect major transformations in the next six months in Lamu, majorly in infrastructure and job opportunities,” he said.

The increased vessel traffic and growing cargo volumes underscore Lamu Port’s strategic importance under Kenya’s broader maritime and trade development agenda, with stakeholders optimistic that the facility will soon rival established ports in the region.

The General Manager of Lamu Port, Captain Abdulaziz Mzee, has called on the media to play a greater role in promoting the facility as it positions itself as a key regional trade hub.

Speaking during a familiarization tour of the port by local journalists, Mzee said increased visibility would help attract more investors, shipping lines and business opportunities to the port.

“We want you as the media to help us in marketing Lamu Port. Many people still don’t fully understand its potential and the opportunities it presents,” said Mzee.

He noted that the port is currently operating largely as a transshipment hub but is now targeting expansion into full import and export services to boost its competitiveness in the region.

"Lamu Port currently acts like a transshipment port, but we also want it to handle imports and exports. When this port grows, our local communities and businesses will grow as well,” he added.

Mzee highlighted the port’s strong performance this year, revealing that it has handled over 70 vessels since January, including container ships  a sign of growing confidence among global shipping operators.

The port is very safe, and this has been demonstrated by the number of vessels we have handled so far this year,” he said.

He further attributed part of the increased traffic to the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, which have forced some vessels to divert from their original destinations to alternative ports such as Lamu.

“The war in the Middle East has also brought business to Lamu Port, with some vessels that were destined for other ports being diverted here,” he explained.

At the same time, Mzee emphasized the port’s growing impact on local livelihoods, noting that it has created employment opportunities for youth in the region.

So far, over 300 youths have been employed on permanent and pensionable terms directly through the Kenya Ports Authority,” he said.

He reiterated that continued growth of the port would translate into more jobs, improved business opportunities and economic transformation for communities in Lamu and the wider coastal region.

The familiarization tour brought together journalists from across the Coast, offering them a first-hand look at the port’s operations, infrastructure and future expansion plans as Kenya seeks to position Lamu as a strategic gateway for regional and international trade.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has backed the establishment of a national compensation and reparations framework for victims of human rights violations, terming the process long overdue and critical to restoring justice for affected families.

Speaking during an iftar dinner hosted by the Orange Democratic Movement Youth League in Mombasa, the ODM Deputy Party Leader welcomed the recent communiqué by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights on the development of a structured reparations framework.

Nassir said many families, particularly in the Coast region, continue to suffer the lasting impact of past injustices, stressing that compensation must go beyond financial payouts.

“This process is both necessary and long overdue. For many families across the Coast, the pain of past violations remains fresh,” he said.

He added that a credible framework should incorporate broader measures including rehabilitation, truth-telling and guarantees of non-repetion.

"The acknowledgment by KNCHR that reparations must go beyond monetary compensation is an important and progressive step,” Nassir noted.

The Mombasa Governor reaffirmed ODM’s support for the initiative, emphasizing the need to ensure that victims are not excluded due to lack of information or access to justice systems.

“Access to justice must not be theoretical. It must be practical, accessible, and responsive to the realities of our people,” he said.

He revealed that ODM leadership in the Coast region will work closely with youth structures to support victims in filing claims and navigating the process.

“We will establish structured support mechanisms to assist victims and their families in lodging their claims with KNCHR,” he stated.

Nassir also raised concern over victims of protest-related violations, many of whom are young people, calling for targeted support to ensure their voices are heard.

“No Kenyan should be denied justice because they lack information, resources, or access,” he said.

At the same time, he urged the government to fast-track funding for the reparations programme, warning that delays could undermine public confidence.

"A credible reparations framework must be backed by adequate resources if it is to inspire public confidence and deliver meaningful outcomes,” he said.

Sub-Saharan Africa’s construction sector is entering one of its most consequential periods.

At the centre of this transformation is the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA), a continent-wide initiative designed to close critical infrastructure gaps by 2040 through more than 400 priority projects spanning energy, transport, ICT, and transboundary water systems.

With over $360 billion committed, PIDA represents not just a pipeline of projects, but a blueprint to unlock regional integration, industrialisation, and long-term economic growth across Africa.

This unprecedented scale of ambition, however, places delivery capability under the microscope. As governments accelerate infrastructure investment, new research from Project Management Institute (PMI) warns that the region faces a 57% talent gap in construction project professionals by 2035, one of the highest growth rates globally.

Demand for construction project professionals across Sub-Saharan Africa is projected to rise from about 260,000 in 2025 to more than 410,000 by 2035, leaving a shortfall of nearly 150,000 professionals. The challenge is part of a broader global trend, with PMI estimating that nearly 2.5 million additional construction project professionals will be needed worldwide by 2035 to meet growing infrastructure demand.

The report underscores a defining paradox in the region’s growth story: construction is one of the most powerful contributors to GDP expansion and job creation, yet it remains one of the most complex and waste-prone sectors of the economy.

PMI data shows that approximately 10% of global project investment is lost annually due to poor performance. In a region deploying hundreds of billions of dollars into infrastructure, that inefficiency translates into billions in unrealised value.

“Construction sits at the heart of the region’s development ambitions,” says George Asamani, Managing Director, PMI Sub-Saharan Africa. “From transport corridors and energy infrastructure to housing, healthcare, and digital connectivity, projects are the vehicles through which we build our future. But without the right project management capabilities, we risk delays, cost overruns, rework, and, ultimately, lost value.”

That urgency is underscored by the pace of activity on the ground. Across Sub-Saharan Africa, large-scale infrastructure investment is accelerating, driven by demographic growth, urban expansion, and regional trade integration. PMI’s research identifies the region as having the highest percentage growth in demand for construction project professionals globally.

Countries such as Ethiopia are leading this surge, with projected annual demand growth rates of 7.8%, among the highest worldwide.

Construction projects are inherently complex, involving one of the largest stakeholder mixes of any industry, including governments, regulators, contractors, financiers, communities, environmental bodies, and international partners, among others. Misalignment among these groups can lead to inefficiencies, duplication, and costly rework.

The report highlights that inadequate communication and collaboration remain persistent challenges, often resulting in financial waste and subpar outcomes.

In an industry where design and scope changes are common, poor coordination between on-site and off-site teams can quickly escalate into delays and budget overruns.

“Construction is highly visible and deeply scrutinised,” Asamani adds. “Every bridge, hospital, or power plant carries public expectations. When projects go wrong, the impact is felt not just financially, but socially and politically. That is why professional project management is not a luxury, it is what safeguards value, protects public funds and ensures infrastructure delivers its intended impact.”

While construction continues to fuel GDP growth across Sub-Saharan Africa, it has historically lagged behind other industries in productivity and technology adoption. PMI’s research highlights digitalisation, including Building Information Modelling (BIM), digital twins, and artificial intelligence, as critical levers to unlock efficiency, improve transparency, and reduce costly rework and waste.

Employers report shortages in core project management competencies such as scheduling, planning, and resource optimisation, alongside essential power skills including communication, collaborative leadership, and stakeholder engagement. At the same time, infrastructure financing is increasingly tied to ESG standards, carbon management, and responsible procurement, creating demand for project leaders who can integrate sustainability into delivery from day one.

Closing the construction talent gap will require more than accelerated recruitment; it demands a deliberate strategy to retain, develop, and elevate project professionals over the long term.

PMI’s research underscores that improving working conditions, investing consistently in professional development, and creating structured career pathways for emerging and mid-career professionals are essential to building a resilient talent pipeline. Specialised training and certifications, such as Construction Professional (PMI-CP), are helping equip professionals with the skills required to manage the growing complexity of modern infrastructure projects, alongside thought leadership and professional networks that enable practitioners to continuously strengthen their capabilities.

“If we want infrastructure to be a true engine of GDP growth, we must professionalise the way we deliver it. We cannot afford to treat training as a cost. It is an investment in national competitiveness,” Asamani concludes.