The Judiciary has affirmed its preparedness and commitment to its constitutional mandate of adjudicating electoral disputes fairly and efficiently.

Speaking in Nairobi during the launch of the Judiciary Committee on Elections Operational Plan 2025 - 2028, Chief Justice Martha Koome said the Judiciary is ready to handle the 2027 Electoral Dispute Resolution (EDR) cycle with fairness, efficiency, independence, and integrity.

She said the Judiciary leadership will fully support the Judiciary Committee on Elections (JCE) as it guides the Judiciary towards attainment of the goal of having an effective EDR process during the 2027 cycle.     

The CJ urged stakeholders and Kenyans, to join hands with the Judiciary, to safeguard the country’s constitutional democracy to ensure a just, peaceful, and democratic country.

She explained that electoral justice is a shared responsibility, and it is only through sustained collaboration that there can be a peaceful electoral process that upholds the constitutional vision of free, fair, and transparent electoral process; and foster the consolidation of our democracy. 

“I also call upon all our partners — the Law Society of Kenya, the IEBC, other electoral stakeholders, and our development partners — to continue walking this journey with us.”  

CJ Koome commended the JCE’s resolve to confront systemic challenges — including the need for timely electoral law reform, continuous capacity building for judges and judicial officers, and foster stronger synergies with other stakeholders in the electoral process.

“Particularly commendable is the proactive approach towards public engagement, aimed at countering disinformation and building public trust in the Judiciary’s handling of electoral disputes.”

Reiterating that the Judiciary is committed to strengthening the architecture of electoral justice in Kenya, the Chief Justice said the Judiciary Committee on Elections Operational Plan serves not only as a roadmap for preparations towards the 2027 General Elections but also as a blueprint for how the Judiciary will continue to defend the integrity of the electoral process, and foster public confidence in judicial adjudication of electoral disputes.

On the change of leadership from outgoing JCE chair, Supreme Court Judge Mohammed Ibrahim to incoming chairperson Supreme Court Judge Njoki Ndungu, the CJ noted that the moment marks both continuity and renewal in the Judiciary’s pivotal role in safeguarding Kenya’s democracy as it discharges its electoral disputes resolution mandate.

"It also marks the official commencement of the Judiciary’s preparations for the 2027 Electoral Dispute Resolution (EDR) cycle.” 

Justice Ibrahim who also spoke at the function noted that the Operational Plan provides a clear roadmap to guide the Committee’s priorities and programmes as the Judiciary prepares for the next electoral cycle adding that it was crafted to guide the Committee's work with clarity and purpose as it supports the Judiciary’s mandate in EDR.

The incoming JCE Chair Lady Justice Njoki Ndungu asked Parliament to implement any legislative changes well ahead of the General Elections. “Changes to the law are critical and negatively impact the Judiciary’s preparedness for elections when they are done too late near elections,” said Judge Njoki.

Speaking at the same event, Chief Registrar of the Judiciary Winfridah Mokaya said the Judiciary has embraced its constitutional duty not just as an arbiter of disputes, but as a key guarantor of electoral credibility.

She added that the Plan outlines the Judiciary’s roadmap for strengthening electoral dispute resolution, building internal capacity, fostering inter-agency coordination, and deepening public trust in our processes.

"It reflects a judiciary that is not reactive, but anticipatory one that is deliberately planning, innovating, and investing in institutional excellence,” 

Catherine Kenga has been elected as the new Kilifi County Assembly Speaker.

Kenga was declared the Speaker after securing 41 out of 47 votes from members of the county assembly.

Kenga, the first Woman to be elected as a speaker fom the Coast region, takes over from Teddy Mwambire who was impeached early this month.

Mwambire was imprached for alleged gross misconduct, sabotage, incompetence and abuse of office.

40 MCAs supported the impeachment motion. 10 MCAs 10 voted against the motion to impeach Mwambire.

"Congratulations to Hon. Catherine Kenga on your election as Speaker of the Kilifi County Assembly.As the first woman elected to this position, Hon. Kenga sets a powerful example and opens the door for more women to lead" posted Kilifi Governor Gedion Mung'aro.

Nominated Senator Hamida Kibwana has condemned the increasing cases of systemic sexual abuse and misconduct by teachers in girls’ boarding schools across the country. 

The legislator raised the issue following the shocking revelations by the Africa Uncensored Deep Dive newsletter, accusing Mr. Peter Ayiro, a teacher at Alliance Girls High School, of alleged sexual abuse and misconduct against minors. 

More than two dozen brave young women and girls came forward to share their harrowing survivor experiences of alleged sexual abuse stretching back over 20 years at the hands of the school’s former Christian Union patron. 

While making a personal Statement on the floor of the House on Thursday, 17th July, Senator Hamida termed the exposé deeply troubling, bearing in mind that the alleged pattern of grooming, emotional manipulation, and inappropriate conduct by Mr Ayiro spanned for more than two decades. 

The Chairperson of the Kenya Women Senators Association wondered how all the abuse could have happened under the watch of the school’s administration, despite multiple principals having served at the institution over this period and despite consistent rumours, concerns, and warnings. 

She blamed institutional failures for allowing Mr. Ayiro’s behaviour to go unchecked, since former school administrators, teachers, and even chaplains reportedly raised red flags, yet no meaningful disciplinary action or formal investigation was ever initiated.

"The Teachers Service Commission (TSC), which is mandated to uphold professional conduct and discipline in our schools, appears to have either failed to act or turned a blind eye.  

Girls' boarding schools are meant to be safe spaces for learning and character formation. Yet, this case reveals a pattern of grooming and predatory behaviour that appears to have been institutionally tolerated or overlooked-raising the question of how many similar cases exist across our schools but remain hidden beneath silence, shame, or fear,” Senator Hamida wondered. 

She submitted that there may be widespread failures in enforcing ethical boundaries between teachers and students in learning institutions across the country and asked the Teachers' Service Commission to urgently review its internal safeguards, reporting structures, and whistle-blower protections about misconduct in schools. 

“The culture of silence, protectionism, and spiritual manipulation in school-based religious spaces must be examined to ensure students' safety and dignity are upheld.

The bravery of the survivors who came forward to tell their stories cannot go unnoticed. We owe it to them – and to every child in our schools – to ensure that systems of accountability are not just on paper, but actively working,” said Senator Hamida Kibwana.

Safaricom (NSE: SCOM), through its youth platform Safaricom Hook Circle, hosted a two day transformative masterclass at Ol’Lessos, National Polytechnic in Eldoret for 600 youth.

The bootcamp focused on equipping young people with skills and opportunities in technology, career development, and culture. This is part of Safaricom's broader goal to empower the youth through technology.

"We are creating spaces where youth can explore their passions, sharpen their skills, and connect with real opportunities. Safaricom Hook Circle is more than a bootcamp; it is a platform for empowerment, inclusion, and innovation. By focusing on disciplines like engineering and technology, we are helping shape a generation that is ready to build and lead Kenya’s future,” said Fawzia Ali Kimanthi, Chief Consumer Business Officer at Safaricom.

The Hook Circle Rift Valley Edition was held in collaboration with the team Google Africa, and Safaricom Technology Team (Networks & Engineering Community).

The team facilitated mentorship forums, technical demonstrations, and practical sessions designed to equip young people with future-ready skills, industry exposure, and professional guidance.

Additionally, the Safaricom Care team was on the ground, providing clarity about Safaricom Hook and its operations.

The programme certified youth in the fields of Building & Civil Engineering and ICT, providing them with skills that can be applied in the workforce or further studies.

Safaricom Hook Circle is a series of youth empowerment boot camps designed to connect young people across Kenya to opportunities that support their growth in technology, career development, entrepreneurship, and culture.

Since its inception in 2023, over one million youths from Meru, Mombasa, Nairobi and Nyeri counties have benefited from this initiative. Plans to engage more young people across all 47 counties in Kenya are ongoing.

Young Kenyans between the ages of 10 and 24 can join the Safaricom Hook community by dialling *555# or signing up through the Safaricom App.

The Kingdom of Morocco became the first left hand drive market in Africa, and one of the first in the world, to receive all new Nissan MAGNITE.

The Nissan MAGNITE brings the company’s trademark Japanese innovation and engineering in a best tech-to-value package that redefines the compact SUV segment. First introduced to the world in 2020, the Nissan MAGNITE has quickly found its niche with more than 150 000 vehicles being sold across the globe and Nissan Africa president Jordi Vila is confident the MAGNITE will be a winner on Moroccan roads and ideal for the kingdom’s varying climate.

Morocco is a strategic gateway to the North African region for Nissan, he says. “We are proud that Morocco’s is the first LHD market in Africa that we are introducing the MAGNITE to. It underscores the strategic importance that Morocco holds for Nissan and re-affirms our commitment to meet the needs of the Kingdom’s motorists with a vehicle that is as bold, intelligent, innovative and as daring as the MAGNITE.” 

Nissan is the global pioneer of the modern SUV segment and has continued this trend with new models of the JUKE and QASHQAI, while continuing to innovate through the acclaimed e-POWER drive train technology.

“The MAGNITE launch in Morocco is more than just another innovation in this proud tradition,” says Nissan Africa head of Communications and PR Ramy Mohareb, “This is a regional event the draws journalists from across the continent, including Tunisia, sub-Saharan Africa and South Africa, underscoring the importance of this strategic milestone for this model and for our company.”

The launch, which included a gala celebration as well as the customary press event, was followed by an immersive coastline driving experience for motoring journalists that traced both the Mediterranean and the Atlantic oceans, before ending with a static display in one of Casablanca’s busiest shopping malls.

“We are excited to be able to bring the new Nissan MAGNITE to Morocco,” says Yassine Benmassi, Managing Director of SMVN the official Nissan Sales Company in the Kingdom. “This is a dynamic market with a young urban population that is eager for smart mobility solutions.”

The all new Nissan MAGNITE will be available in Morocco in four different models:

• 0T MID – Manual Transmission
• 0T UPPER – Manual Transmission
• 0T UPPER – CVT Automatic Transmission
• 0T PREM (O) – CVT Automatic Transmission

Loaded with new technology

The new MAGNITE, retains its striking appearance and robust exterior styling, adding a configurable TFT driver display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. Life on board is also enhanced with adjustable four colour ambient lighting.

Other new features include the innovative remote engine start and the walkaway lock and approach unlock function, cooled glove box storage and on-board air ioniser, which is ideal for motorists and passengers with allergies or respiratory conditions.

Safety

The updated MAGNITE features six airbags across all variants and the bodyshell’s integrity is reinforced with the use of reinforced steel. A frameless auto dimming rear view mirror is available, giving a wider field of view and it automatically dims to reduce distracting glare from headlights of vehicles behind.

Efficient performance

The MAGNITE is powered by a turbocharged 1.0-litre engine, offering an optimum balance of fuel economy and responsive performance, paired by either a manual or continuously variable transmission.

Ideal for urban mobility

The MAGNITE might be small, but it is ideal for urban cruising, able to accommodate five passengers thanks to its generous wheelbase. The Around View Monitor, a standout offering in the Magnite segment, provides a bird’s eye view of the car from four cameras taking away all the stress from parking in tight spaces.

Nissan is redefining the B-SUV segment by integrating advanced safety and convenience technologies that surpass the usual standards, delivering exceptional value and bringing enhanced features within reach of a wider audience.

“Our engineers have taken an incredible design and made it even better to the benefit of the legions of Magnite fans across the world and, I have no doubt, a whole new generation in Morocco ready to fall in love with this vehicle that allows you to literally go your own way with the latest technology and all the safety specs that you would need,” says Vila.

“We pride ourselves at Nissan about being innovative and providing mobility solutions across the market. The new Magnite is a vital part of just that and I look forward to seeing how it continues its journey into the hearts and minds of Moroccan motorists.”

Car & General, one of East Africa’s leading suppliers of power equipment, automotive, and engineering products, has announced a strategic partnership with NCBA.

This marks a significant milestone in NBCA’s mission to deliver innovative and customer-centric asset finance solutions to the Kenyan market.

Customers will now have access of up to 90 per cent financing, with flexible repayment terms of up to 60 months.

Additionally, any individual purchasing an asset will benefit from a 60-day grace period after the equipment is released, allowing them to use the equipment without making payments.

Speaking during the MoU signing ceremony, NCBA Group Director Asset Finance and Business Solutions, Mr. Lennox Mugambi, said, “In today’s highly competitive asset finance landscape, customers have access to a wide range of options. "

Adding" As Kenya's leading asset finance provider, what sets NCBA apart is not just the availability of financing, but the quality partnerships, ease of access and customer-focused competitive financial solutions.”

Kenya’s plant and machinery sector has witnessed robust growth, driven by expanding construction, agribusiness, transport, and manufacturing industries.

Recent data indicates a surge in demand for equipment, with the sector expected to grow by over 10% annually as businesses modernize and scale operations.

However, many SMEs and commercial enterprises face significant barriers in accessing affordable financing due to high upfront costs and stringent collateral requirements.

“The construction sector is under pressure, with cement output falling from 9.19 million tonnes in 2023 to 8.5 million tonnes in 2024, and credit to the sector falling from KES 602.7 billion to KES 528 billion," noted Mr. Mugambi.

"But approved private building plans value in Nairobi rose to KES 221.6 billion in 2024, from KES 220 billion; showing investor appetite is strong. Our collaboration to fund construction equipment is well-timed, offering developers and contractors more convenient access to up-to-date equipment to maintain pace even under tightening conditions."

For SMEs and commercial businesses, which form the backbone of Kenya’s economy, the partnership means improved access to critical tools needed for growth and competitiveness.

Many of these businesses have struggled with limited access to traditional loans, often hindered by complex documentation and high collateral demands.

By requiring no additional collateral beyond the equipment itself, this partnership removes a major barrier, making asset acquisition more accessible and affordable.

This collaboration reaffirms the continued commitment of both NCBA and Car & General to enable individuals and businesses across Kenya to access the tools they need to thrive, grow and remain resilient in an increasingly competitive market.

Rap powerhouse Femi One has just dropped her latest single titled “Valentina Shevchenko”, a raw, unfiltered hip hop anthem that cements her place at the top of the game.

Named after the legendary UFC fighter, the track is an ode to grit, fearlessness, and dominance qualities Femi One lives and breathes.

From the opening bar, “Valentina Shevchenko” pulls no punches.

It is a reminder to fans and critics alike that Femi does not settle -not for mediocrity, not for industry politics, and certainly not for silence.

The beat is grimy, the flow is relentless, and the message is clear! 

“Rap and raw hip-hop has always been my arena,” says Femi One. “This track is a statement that I have never been here to play it safe. I am here to dominate.”

Fresh off the momentum of major performances and high profile collaborations, “Valentina Shevchenko” marks a return to Femi’s gritty roots ,reminding us why she is the voice of multiple generations and a fierce standard bearer for African hip hop.

Studio Can-V has officially launched its first portable music hub in Nairobi, transforming once-derelict shipping containers into a cool fully equipped creative playground for Kenya’s next generation of DJs and music makers.

Designed and founded by Kenyan DJ, architect and sustainable design advocate Jesse Mwenda, the brand-new Studio Can-V has opened its doors at the Kuona Artists Collective.

The launch event, held on July 2, 2025, celebrated the unveiling of Studio Can-V’s first studio project—made possible with support from Jägermeister’s global Save the Night Fund.

The event gathered leading figures from Kenya’s nightlife community, Kenyan Feierstarters campus ambassadors, local Meisters, Meera Karia - Director Business Development from distributor Viva Global,  media partners and the Jägermeister global team including Kai Deschling (Jägermeister Director Global Experiential and Culture Marketing), Lewis Jones (Jägermeister Vice President Middle East & Africa) and Kea Kleihauer (Jägermeister Global).

Jesse started out as a DJ who spun his very first set at Nairobi’s Carnivore aged just 14. In 2023 Jesse’s concept won a €50,000 grant from Jägermeister’s global Save the Night Fund, beating hundreds of submissions worldwide.

The result is Studio Can-V—a modular container-studio fitted with turntables, mixers, streaming cameras and acoustic treatment.

By day, it functions as a classroom and rehearsal pod; by night it morphs into an intimate showcase venue with sessions that will be streamed and archived on YouTube and social media, building a living library and a showcase of Kenyan DJ talent.

Speaking at the launch event, Jesse said, “Today is a beautiful collision of many things. It’s the launch of a dream I have been nurturing for a long time and a vision born from my love for architecture, music and sustainable design. That vision comes to life in the form of Studio One.”

Inspired by his own circumstances and past experience, Jesse says, “Back then I had to borrow gear and sneak into a friend’s house to practice.When conceptualizing Studio Can-V, I thought about what support I needed back then and  Studio Can-V is my answer to that struggle: a space where anyone, regardless of background, can learn, rehearse and share their sound with the world.”

Speaking at the Studio Can-V launch event, Kea Kleihauer, Global Culture & Experiential Manager at Jägermeister said, “No matter what you want to do, it’s important to have people like Jesse who make it possible for everyone to take part and feel included. That’s what Safe Zone is all about: bringing people together, creating night spaces where everyone can have fun, enjoy their night out and feel a true sense of connection. It’s such a beautiful thing and we are genuinely happy that we all get to share this moment together.”

Studio Can-V is not a one studio project but looks at sustainability and longevity among its core values, Jesse states.

The first studio launch is poised to respond to DJs needs and will offer DJ lessons and livestream sets. Jesse confirms that studio 2, set to launch later this year, will be geared towards production for music producers and sound-engineers.

Jesse concludes, “From safety to sustainability, nightlife is under pressure everywhere but young Kenyans still need stages and Studio Can-V puts those stages back in their hands, free of charge, as a non-profit,” adding, “Thanks to the support of Jägermeister Save the Night Fund, we’re recycling containers to recycle opportunities.”

The Port of Lamu is steadily emerging as a key maritime gateway, attracting a growing number of vessels and building confidence among international shipping lines.

The latest vessel to dock at the port s the CMA CGM ship MV Ubena, which arrived on a maiden voyage from Mombasa.

The vessel is offloading 860 full containers, set to be transferred to the Onego Buran for transshipment to Zanzibar.

CMA CGM East Africa Managing Director Naveen Prabhu and the newly appointed Lamu Port General Manager Captain Abdulaziz Mzee were at the berth to receive the ship.

"Their meeting signaled continued interest by CMA CGM in making Lamu a regular stop." reads a statement from KPA.

"With its strategic location, Lamu is drawing attention from global carriers eager to tap into regional trade routes."

Captain Abdulaziz said efforts are underway to enhance operations and address any challenges, underscoring KPA’s focus on keeping the port efficient. Later this week, MV Mahmoud is expected to dock to load livestock exports, to the middle East adding to the port’s growing activity.

Erick Sangoro has been installed as the President of the Rotary Club of Nairobi Langata for 2025/2026 period on June 28, 2025, succeeding Serah Njoroge who has held the office for the 2024/25 period. Erick Sangoro is the Managing Director of Cummins C&G Limited.

Speaking at the event, Erick Sangoro said, “I re-affirm my dedication to leading impactful community initiatives in line with Rotary’s values, while also continuing to drive Car & General’s mission of making customers smile through initiatives that empower lives. Rotary Club of Nairobi Langata is one of Kenya’s most vibrant and impactful Rotary clubs.”

The Rotary Club implements impact service projects in education, youth empowerment and health among others achieved through the provision of clean water, promotion of basic education and eradication of polio in partnership with local and international organizations. It is a global humanitarian organization that brings together people of action who are committed to creating lasting change in their communities, across the world and among themselves.

Car & General is a diversified distributor of TVS motorcycles, Piaggio three wheelers, Kubota tractors, Toyota forklifts, Cummins generators, Develon earthmovers among other equipment in East Africa. Car & General was the pioneered the use of two and three wheelers as taxis in Kenya over two decades ago.