Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has embarked on a grassroots mobilisation drive aimed at injecting new energy into the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Joho’s campaign begins this weekend at the Coast, where he is expected to engage party supporters and residents through grassroots dialogues and a series of mega rallies in Kilifi, Kwale and Mombasa.

The mobilisation comes as ODM seeks to consolidate its structures and reconnect with supporters across the region ahead of the next General Election.

Joho will on Friday, August 14, lead engagements at the Karisa Maitha Grounds in Kilifi before moving to Vingujini Grounds in Kwale County on Saturday, August 15.

1The former governor has also kicked off the mobilisation in Taita Taveta County, where he was accompanied by Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro, ODM officials and party leaders for a grassroots engagement in Chakareli, Rong’e Ward, Mwatate Sub-County.

Mung’aro, who is the ODM Kilifi County Chairperson, said the engagement was focused on strengthening the party while advancing the interests of the Coast region.

"Our strength lies in a united and organised Coast that speaks with one voice on the issues that matter most to our people,” Mung’aro said.

He identified economic opportunities, employment, land, education, healthcare and sustainable development as some of the key issues that should remain at the centre of the region’s political and development agenda.

Mung’aro said he remained committed to strengthening ODM’s presence and structures across Kilifi and the wider Coast region while championing development and a better future for local communities.

The grassroots engagements are expected to provide ODM leaders with an opportunity to listen to residents, assess the party’s support base and mobilise members as the political environment gradually shifts towards the 2027 elections.

Joho’s return to grassroots mobilisation also places the Coast at the centre of ODM’s efforts to rebuild and strengthen its support networks, with the region remaining an important political base for the party.

The weekend rallies in Kilifi and Kwale are expected to attract ODM supporters, party officials, elected leaders and other political actors as the party seeks to build momentum ahead of the 2027 political contest.

Car & General (C&G) has reported a strong financial performance for the six months ended June 30, 2026, with turnover rising by 30 per cent to Ksh15.6 billion, compared with the same period last year.

“Despite a challenging operating environment, we are encouraged by the resilience and growth demonstrated across our markets,” said Car & General Chairman Nicholas Ng’ang’a.

The company’s profit after tax surged to Ksh2.6 billion, up from Ksh637 million recorded during the previous comparable period, reflecting strong performance across its businesses in East Africa and other markets.

“This performance reflects the strength of our diversified portfolio and the continued execution of our regional growth strategy,” Ng’ang’a said.

According to the Car & General half-year results statement, sales grew by 40 per cent in Kenya, 35 per cent in Uganda and 22 per cent in Tanzania. Poultry sales in Tanzania also increased by 3.5 per cent during the period.

The company attributed the improved performance to positive operations across the region, including significant growth from its associate, Watu, which was driven by increased mobile-phone financing and strong performance in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, South Africa and Sierra Leone.

Kenya’s motorcycle business was among the key drivers of growth, with sales averaging 12,000 units per month in 2026, compared with 7,000 units per month in 2025.

Car & General said the growth represents a significant opportunity going forward, with exchange-rate stability also helping the company maintain greater control over its margins.

In Tanzania, the company recorded modest growth in two-wheeler and three-wheeler sales, while its poultry operation stabilised during the period. Production of day-old chicks and demand remained stable, with the company expecting production to increase in the second half of the year.

The company’s investment property portfolio also remained stable. Nairobi Mega on Uhuru Highway maintained steady footfall, while Car & General continued efforts to partially reduce its property holding in Shanzu.

The company currently holds 22.5 acres in Shanzu, having sold 1.5 acres in 2026. It expects the completion of the Mombasa–Malindi highway, scheduled for 2027, to further enhance the value of the property.

Car & General also reported continued progress in its investment in Watu, which has expanded its operations across several African markets. The company has opened operations in Rwanda and South Africa as it continues its strategy of supporting the digitisation of Africa.

Its helmet-manufacturing subsidiary, Boda Plus, has also turned profitable and is currently exporting to Uganda, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda and Burundi.

The company is further positioning itself in the transition to cleaner mobility through investments in electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers, LPG-powered three-wheelers in Kenya and CNG-powered three-wheelers in Tanzania.

Car & General said the response to these products has been positive, although it noted that infrastructure for electric charging and gas supply needs to be accelerated to support faster growth in the sector.

The company said more than five million customers are currently using its products and services across its markets.

Looking ahead, Car & General expects economic conditions in East Africa to remain stable in terms of inflation, foreign exchange and liquidity for the remainder of the year, despite unpredictable global geopolitical developments.

“We remain cautiously optimistic about the outlook and are focused on strengthening operational efficiency while expanding our market presence,” Ng’ang’a said.

The company said it will continue driving growth across its product lines and businesses, with a focus on increasing market share, improving Group profitability and optimising its balance sheet.

As part of the half-year results, the Board approved an interim dividend of Ksh1 per share, which will be payable on or about September 10, 2026, to shareholders on the register of members as at September 3, 2026.

“The interim dividend reflects our commitment to delivering consistent value to shareholders while maintaining a strong balance sheet for future growth,” Ng’ang’a said.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has challenged young people in the county to embrace discipline, responsibility and hard work if they are to take advantage of opportunities available to them.

Speaking on Wednesday during celebrations to mark International Youth Day at Tononoka Social Hall, where he addressed hundreds of youths, Governor Nassir said lack of discipline could undermine even the best youth empowerment programmes.

The Governor cited the county’s “Mombasa Ni Yangu” programme as an example, saying the initiative had shown great potential but was forced to discontinue after some beneficiaries failed to honour their work commitments.

“Discipline is very key. You will not achieve anything as a youth if you lack discipline,” Nassir told the gathering.

He said some beneficiaries failed to report to work, gave excuses or displayed laziness despite being given opportunities to gain experience and earn a livelihood.

Nassir urged young people to take opportunities seriously, noting that empowerment programmes can only succeed when beneficiaries demonstrate commitment and a willingness to work.

The Governor also warned youths against being manipulated along tribal and political lines as the country heads towards the 2027 General Election.

He urged young people to carefully scrutinise politicians seeking their support and demand clear answers on their development agenda.

“We are in a season of politics and many politicians will want to use your emotions and divide you along tribal lines. You need to be vigilant and careful,” he cautioned.

Nassir challenged the youth to listen to political leaders but ask critical questions about what they intend to deliver, particularly on issues affecting young people.

He said youths should demand to know how political agendas would translate into employment, business opportunities, skills development, infrastructure and other forms of development.

“Let them tell you their agenda and how you, as the youth, will benefit in terms of development and other opportunities,” he said.

The Governor further cautioned young people against allowing themselves to be used as instruments of political violence, recalling the loss of many young lives during previous periods of political unrest.

“We have lost so many youth due to political violence, and we should not allow this to happen again,” he said.

Nassir’s remarks come at a time when the county and national government are rolling out various initiatives targeting youth skills development, employment and entrepreneurship. Mombasa has recently expanded vocational and skills-training opportunities, including the Skills Mitaani programme targeting more than 10,000 young people. 

The Governor called on the youth to focus on building their skills, creating businesses and pursuing opportunities rather than allowing political differences to divide them.

He said young people have a critical role to play in shaping the future of Mombasa and Kenya and should use their numbers and influence to demand accountable leadership and meaningful development.

Azzam United have booked their place in the semifinals of the SISI NI DOLA Cup after edging defending champions Fayaz Bakers 2-1 in a closely contested quarter-final played on Sunday.

The result brings Fayaz Bakers’ title defence to an end, while Azzam United continue their impressive run in the competition and will now face Alshifaa FC in the semifinal.

Azzam United took control of the match early, scoring twice in the first half to establish a 2-0 lead.

Harith Mshamanga opened the scoring in the 20th minute after being set up by Juma Bwengo, before Ali Cheusi doubled the advantage eight minutes later following an assist from Salim Mzala.

Fayaz Bakers came back strongly after the break and their efforts paid off in the 52nd minute when Rashid Nzao found the back of the net to reduce the deficit to 2-1.

Despite mounting pressure from the defending champions, Azzam United held on to their advantage until the final whistle to secure a place in the last four.

The match was played in a competitive but fair manner, with no major incidents reported during or after the encounter.

Fayaz Bakers received three yellow cards, with Mohammed Kenga booked in the 57th minute, Abdallah Abdallah in the 58th minute and goalscorer Rashid Nzao in the 83rd minute.

Azzam United had one caution, with Said Tuwa receiving a yellow card in the 67th minute.

Azzam United’s Hassan Kizianda was named the Man of the Match (MVP) following his impressive performance.

The victory sees Azzam United advance to the semifinals, where they will face Alshifaa FC in what promises to be another exciting encounter.

The other semifinal will see Nyundo FC take on Green Eagles, with the two sides also battling for a place in the SISI NI DOLA Cup final.

The SISI NI DOLA Cup has entered its decisive stage, with the remaining teams now eyeing a place in the final and the coveted championship. The tournament has brought together teams from across the region and continues to provide a platform for emerging football talent.

Two people have died and several others sustained injuries after a bus ferrying mourners from Mombasa to attend the funeral of the late Elvis “Beast” Otieno was involved in a road accident in Nyando, Kisumu County.

The accident occurred on Friday, August 7, 2026, involving one of five buses that had departed from Mombasa carrying mourners to attend the funeral service scheduled for Saturday, August 8.

In a statement, Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sheriff Nassir confirmed the accident, saying preliminary reports indicated that the bus lost control in Nyando.

“It is with deep concern that I have received reports of a road traffic accident involving one of five buses that departed Mombasa carrying mourners travelling to attend the funeral service of our departed brother, Elvis ‘Beast’ Otieno,” Governor Nassir said.

The Governor said authorities had so far confirmed two fatalities, while a number of passengers sustained injuries and were evacuated to nearby medical facilities for assessment and treatment.

“Regrettably, we have so far received confirmation of two fatalities. A number of passengers sustained injuries, and ambulances have evacuated some of the injured to nearby medical facilities for assessment and treatment,” he said.

Governor Nassir said the Mombasa County Government was in consultation with the Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration, Dr Raymond Omollo, as security and emergency agencies responded to the accident scene.

“Our immediate priority is to ensure that every injured passenger receives the necessary medical attention and that the families affected are appropriately supported,” Nassir said.

The Governor also appealed to students at the Technical University of Mombasa and the wider Mombasa community to remain calm and avoid sharing unverified information as authorities work to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident.

He urged the public to allow authorities to formally confirm the identities and condition of those involved before circulating further information.

“I appeal particularly to the student fraternity of the Technical University of Mombasa, and to the wider Mombasa community, to remain calm and avoid circulating unverified information as the authorities establish the full circumstances and confirm the identities and condition of those involved,” he said.

The accident has cast a shadow over the planned funeral journey, with the mourners having been travelling to bid farewell to their friend and fellow member of the community.

Governor Nassir extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wished those injured a speedy recovery.

“We mourn with the families that have lost loved ones and pray for strength and comfort for them during this painful time. We equally pray for the speedy recovery of all those who have been injured,” he said.

The County Government of Mombasa said it would continue engaging with the relevant authorities and provide further updates once additional information is formally confirmed.

The funeral of Elvis “Beast” Otieno is scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 8, 2026.

Chief Justice Martha Koome has called for strong action to be taken to curtail the prevalence of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).

She said the menace has now reached alarming and devastating levels creating a dangerous impact on communities in the Western region of the country.

Speaking in Bungoma during an engagement with members of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and the Bungoma Court Users Committee (CUC), the Chief Justice described the prevalence of SGBV in the county as deeply concerning, noting that the number of reported cases reflects a serious societal crisis requiring urgent and coordinated national action.

"The prevalence of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence is alarming, and its impact on families and communities demands a whole-of-society response," she said.

Chief Justice Koome urged Court Users Committees to strengthen collaboration with justice sector institutions, government agencies, and community stakeholders to develop preventive interventions that address the root causes of SGBV.

She noted that prevention efforts would not only protect vulnerable members of society but also reduce the burden on the justice system and correctional facilities.

Reaffirming the Judiciary's commitment to protecting victims of SGBV, the Chief Justice said cases involving Sexual and Gender-Based Violence would continue to receive priority to ensure timely access to justice.

She further announced that the Judiciary will consider establishing a dedicated SGBV Registry within the courts in Bungoma County to facilitate the expeditious handling of such cases.

The proposed registry would help minimize delays and reduce the risk of victims being re-traumatized through repeated court appearances.

Chief Justice Koome also commended the Bungoma Court Users Committee for its strong collaboration in enhancing the administration of justice and improving service delivery to court users.

Speaking during the meeting, Bungoma Law Society of Kenya representative Daisy Wakoli welcomed the Judiciary's continued efforts to improve access to justice, particularly through the establishment of the Small Claims Court in Bungoma and the Court of Appeal station in Kakamega, which handles appeals arising from Bungoma County.

She, however, raised concerns over the deteriorating state of court infrastructure in Bungoma, noting that existing court facilities require urgent rehabilitation and modernization to provide a dignified environment for justice seekers.

Ms. Wakoli further observed that despite the availability of adequate land at Kimilili and Webuye Law Courts, new court infrastructure has yet to be developed. She appealed to the Judiciary to consider constructing new court buildings at the two stations.

The Law Society of Kenya also requested the establishment and operationalization of a new court at Kopsiro to reduce the distance travelled by litigants seeking judicial services.

Additionally, the Society called for the establishment of a Court of Appeal Sub-Registry in Bungoma to bring appellate services closer to residents.

Recognizing Bungoma as one of the counties with a high prevalence of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, the LSK further appealed for the establishment of a dedicated SGBV Court to enhance access to specialized and victim-centred justice.

The Witness Protection Agency commended Bungoma County for its commitment to referring eligible witnesses for protection and encouraged justice sector stakeholders to sustain the referrals to safeguard witnesses participating in criminal proceedings.

Principal Secretary for Children Services Karen Ageng'o underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between the Judiciary, the Department of Children's Services, and other justice sector institutions in protecting the rights and welfare of children.

She noted that strengthening families and community support systems remains critical in preventing child vulnerability and reducing the number of children entering the justice system.

She also acknowledged the important role played by Court Users Committees in advancing the promotion and protection of children's rights.

The Principal Secretary further urged courts to facilitate early recording of victims' and witnesses' testimony in children's matters to support the expeditious hearing and determination of cases involving children.

Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga praised the close collaboration among justice sector agencies, emphasizing that effective delivery of justice depends on strong institutional partnerships.

He also called upon communities to take greater responsibility in protecting and nurturing children, noting that stronger family and community support systems would reduce children's vulnerability and their likelihood of coming into conflict with the law.

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of justice sector stakeholders to strengthen collaboration, improve access to justice, enhance victim protection, and develop coordinated responses to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence and other pressing justice challenges affecting the people of Bungoma County.

The Government has resolved procurement challenges that delayed the rollout of Kenya’s Seafarers’ Identity Document (SID), with the new electronic system now expected to be fully operational before the end of 2026.

Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, Shipping and Maritime Affairs, Hassan Ali Joho made the announcement while appearing before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Diaspora Affairs and Migrant Workers to respond to concerns over delays in issuing the internationally recognised identification documents for Kenyan seafarers.

The Committee, chaired by Lydia Haika, was informed that implementation of the new SID system is underway after the contract for the turnkey solution was awarded to Konza Technopolis in June 2026.

According to the Cabinet Secretary, the project has a tentative implementation period of six months, with commissioning of the system expected before the end of the year.

CS Joho told Members that preparations for the SID production facility at Bahari Towers are progressing well. He said the Government is working with the Communications Authority of Kenya to meet security certification requirements, while installation of the necessary ICT infrastructure is ongoing. He added that the card personalisation machine has already been completed.

Addressing the cause of the delays, Joho attributed the setback to procurement-related technicalities that affected the acquisition of the SID turnkey solution. He, however, assured the Committee that the issues had been resolved and the Government is now focused on completing the remaining processes required to operationalise the system.

He further committed to delivering a secure, internationally compliant electronic SID system within the planned timeline, revealing that the first five pilot Seafarers’ Identity Documents are expected to be produced in October this year for testing.

Members of the Committee raised concerns over the six-month implementation timeline, saying Kenyan seafarers have waited long enough for the crucial document.

Ruweida Obo and Pamela Njoki urged the Ministry to fast-track the rollout, arguing that the implementation period was too lengthy given the demand from Kenyan seafarers seeking employment abroad.

Responding to the concerns, CS Joho defended the timeline, saying the Government could not afford to compromise on security and international compliance.

“It was important for us to get this right since these are critical security documents to be used globally. The issuance of these SIDs is a sensitive matter, hence we must make sure whatever is issued passes global tests and standards,” he said.

The Cabinet Secretary added that Kenya is working closely with the International Labour Organization to ensure the new electronic SID system complies with ILO Convention No. 185 as well as applicable International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

Once operational, the electronic Seafarers’ Identity Document is expected to enhance the mobility of Kenyan seafarers by providing a globally recognised identification document that meets international security requirements, thereby improving their access to employment opportunities in the global maritime industry.

Tanzania is set to strengthen its leadership in the global primary health care agenda as it hosts the Second International Primary Health Care Conference (IPHCC 2026) in Arusha from September 9–11, 2026.

The conference, organised by Tanzania, will bring together more than 2,500 participants from across the world, including government leaders, health experts, researchers, international organisations, academic institutions and development partners, to discuss strategies for strengthening primary health care systems and accelerating progress towards Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

As the host and organiser of the Second International Primary Health Care Conference, Tanzania will use the platform to showcase its progress, share experiences and provide leadership in advancing sustainable and people-centred health systems in Africa and beyond.

The conference will focus on the theme: “Towards Universal Health Coverage: Strengthening Sustainable Health Financing, Efficiency and Quality Improvement within Primary Health Care,” highlighting the importance of sustainable financing, efficiency and quality improvement in delivering accessible health services.

Speaking on preparations for the conference, the Director of Health, Nutrition and Social Welfare Services at the Prime Minister’s Office – Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), Dr. Rashid Mfaume, said the meeting will provide an important platform for exchanging experiences, innovations and research findings aimed at strengthening primary health care systems.

He said primary health care remains the foundation of effective health systems, serving as the first point of contact where communities access preventive services, early diagnosis, basic treatment and health education.

Meanwhile, Dr. Pius Kamana said the conference will discuss key health priorities, including youth health, nutrition, One Health, traditional medicine, social welfare, health diplomacy and health security.

He added that the conference will promote scientific exchange, with more than 400 research papers expected to be presented by experts from different parts of the world.

The conference comes at a time when Tanzania continues to invest in strengthening primary health care through expansion of health facilities, improving access to medicines and medical supplies, and enhancing the capacity of health workers.

Globally, primary health care is recognised as a critical foundation for achieving Universal Health Coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal Three, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all.

Beyond health discussions, the Second International Primary Health Care Conference is expected to enhance Tanzania’s global health diplomacy, promote conference tourism and strengthen partnerships among countries and health stakeholders.

By hosting this international gathering, Tanzania aims to demonstrate its commitment to leading conversations that shape the future of primary health care and contribute to the global pursuit of health for all.

Hundreds of youth, women and elderly groups from Mvita Sub-county are set to benefit from an empowerment programme spearheaded by Mombasa Senator Mohammed Faki under the Asanteni Mombasa initiative.

The Mvita Edition of the programme is scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 8, at Ronald Ngala Grounds, bringing together community groups from across the constituency for an initiative aimed at promoting economic empowerment and improving livelihoods. 

The programme is expected to provide support to organized groups, reaffirming the Senator’s commitment to empowering vulnerable members of society through initiatives that promote self-reliance, entrepreneurship and sustainable income-generating activities.

Speaking ahead of the event during consultations with youth, women and elderly representatives, Senator Faki expressed gratitude to the people of Mvita for their continued support and emphasized the importance of empowering grassroots groups as a way of fostering inclusive development. 

The Asanteni Mombasa empowerment programme has become a key platform through which the Senator engages residents while supporting community-based organizations that play a vital role in driving economic growth and improving household incomes.

Residents, community leaders and beneficiaries are expected to attend the event, which will mark another milestone in the Senator’s ongoing efforts to uplift communities across Mombasa County through targeted empowerment initiatives.