Mombasa County has received the final draft of its Gender Mainstreaming Policy, a landmark framework aimed at embedding gender equality and inclusion across all county programs, plans and budgets.

The draft was formally received by County Executive Committee Member for Youth, Gender, Sports and Social Services, Jonathan Wepukhulu, who described the development as a significant milestone for the department and the county at large.

“I proudly received the Final Draft of the Mombasa County Gender Mainstreaming Policy in my office. This marks a significant milestone for the Department of Youth, Gender, Sports and Social Services and for Mombasa County,” Wepukhulu said.

He noted that the policy provides a clear and structured framework to ensure that county initiatives equitably address the needs of women, men, marginalized and vulnerable groups.

“This transformative policy is not just a document; it is a commitment to fairness, inclusion and equal opportunity for all. It will guide how we design programs, allocate resources and deliver services to ensure that no one is left behind,” he added.

According to the county executive, the policy seeks to institutionalize gender perspectives in governance by integrating them into planning, budgeting and implementation processes across all departments.

“The goal is to make gender equality practical and measurable. Every county program and budget must respond equitably to the needs of our diverse population,” Wepukhulu said.

The development of the comprehensive draft was made possible through collaboration with Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA), the Kenyatta University Women Economic Empowerment Hub, and other stakeholders committed to advancing social justice and inclusive development.

Wepukhulu commended the partners for their technical support and shared vision. “This achievement reflects the power of partnership. We appreciate IPA, Kenyatta University Women Economic Empowerment Hub and all stakeholders who worked tirelessly to develop a policy that reflects the realities and aspirations of our people,” he said.

He reaffirmed the department’s commitment to championing initiatives that empower women and girls, uplift marginalized communities and promote equal participation in governance and economic opportunities.

“As a department, we remain steadfast in advancing policies that empower women and girls and integrate gender perspectives at every level of governance. Together, we are building a county where equality is not a privilege, but a right,” Wepukhulu emphasized.

Once adopted, the Gender Mainstreaming Policy is expected to strengthen accountability, enhance inclusive service delivery and position Mombasa as a leader in gender-responsive governance at the county level.

Trade and investment ties between Kenya and China continue to expand, driven by growing business partnerships, infrastructure projects, and rising demand for cross-border financial solutions. 

At the centre of this momentum is Stanbic Bank Kenya, whose China Desk is helping businesses navigate the complexities of operating between the two markets.

According to Muya Guo, Head of the China Desk, the unit was designed to reduce friction in cross-border trade and help businesses unlock new opportunities.

Building the financial bridge for trade and investment

The China Desk provides specialised trade and cash management solutions designed to support importers, exporters, and investors operating between Kenya and China.

“Stanbic Bank has robust trade solutions including guarantees, letters of credit, and working capital to facilitate trade and investment between Kenya and China,” says Guo. “We also offer import and export solutions that help Kenyan businesses connect with the vast Chinese market and find trusted sellers and buyers.”

Beyond trade finance, the bank is actively supporting sectors that attract Chinese investment, including infrastructure, industrial development, and services.

This funding plays an important role in accelerating projects that contribute to economic growth and job creation.

Simplifying payments and navigating regulatory differences

Cross border trade often faces barriers ranging from regulatory differences to language and payment system challenges.

The China Desk combines financial expertise with cultural insight to help businesses overcome these obstacles.

“Cultural awareness helps our colleagues understand clients better, communicate more efficiently, and build stronger trust,” Guo explains. “Our knowledge of both markets helps new investors understand the Kenya market faster, especially the financial sector.”

One of the most significant milestones has been improving payment infrastructure.

Through its parent group, Standard Bank became the first African bank to offer access to China’s Cross Border Interbank Payment System, helping to make payments in and out of China more efficient and secure.

This access is expected to streamline transactions, reduce settlement risk, and support the growing volume of trade between the two countries.

Strengthening relationships through culture and community

Financial solutions alone are not enough to build lasting partnerships. Stanbic has also invested in cultural and community initiatives that foster stronger relationships between Kenyan and Chinese business communities.

The bank hosts Chinese New Year celebrations at key branches, bringing together Chinese and Kenyan clients in a shared cultural experience.

It also sponsors the Kenya Chinese Basketball Tournament, using sport as a platform to build trust and deepen community connections.

These initiatives play a vital role in strengthening cross-cultural understanding, which is increasingly recognised as a key ingredient in successful international partnerships.

Inspired by the Year of the Horse

Looking ahead, Stanbic sees strong potential for continued growth in Kenya-China trade. Guo notes that the symbolism of the Year of the Horse reflects the spirit of progress and resilience that defines the partnership.

“The Horse represents energy, progress, resilience, and success through hard work,” she says. “We remain committed to supporting our clients’ ambitions with efficiency, commitment, and reliability, while delivering innovative financial solutions and creating opportunities for sustainable growth.”

As trade and investment ties deepen, financial institutions are expected to play an even greater role in enabling businesses to operate seamlessly across borders.

Stanbic’s China Desk is positioning itself at the heart of that journey, helping businesses move forward with confidence in one of the world’s most important trade corridors.

East Africa’s premier mixed martial arts promotion, ANZA MMA, returns for its 2026 season with its sixth event, following a highly successful run last year.

The promotion is set to deliver another electrifying night of amateur MMA action and fierce regional rivalries at ANZA MMA Fight Night 006, taking place on Thursday, 26 February 2026, at The Alchemist, Nairobi, one of the city’s most iconic live event venues. Doors open at 6 PM with fights beginning at 7 PM. Tickets are now available on Hustle Sasa.

Continuing its mission to develop elite talent and grow the sport across the continent, the event will feature a stacked fight card showcasing rising stars from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Headlining the night will be Kenya’s flyweight sensation Norman Mondo of One Tribe BJJ, who enters the bout on the back of two consecutive submission victories, cementing his reputation as one of the country’s most dangerous young grapplers.

Mondo’s relentless pace and submission-hunting style have made him a must-watch athlete on the East African scene.

Standing across from him will be Paul Angalla of Uganda, representing the Uganda Prison Guards, a team known for producing physically tough and disciplined competitors. With national pride and momentum on the line, this flyweight clash promises high intensity from start to finish.

The co-main event will present Uganda’s Rymond Wandendeya, another athlete coming in hot with two dominant finishes in his last two fights. one via ground and pound and the other by D’Arce choke, showcasing both striking pressure and submission skills.

He will face Magloire Kayembe of the Democratic Republic of Congo, representing Elite Training Center in Lubumbashi, widely regarded as one of Africa’s top MMA gyms.

The gym is led by Yadad Moser, who has developed elite African talent that has gone on to compete on major international platforms, including Dana White’s Contender Series. Kayembe himself is 2 - 0, coming off a strong showing at Impact Championship promotion in Zambia in 2025. 

Also featured on the card will be Isack Ibrahim, Tanzania’s a decorated Muay Thai striker with a strong international résumé who is now transitioning fully into mixed martial arts. While known for his high-level stand-up, Ibrahim has also competed in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and this bout marks an opportunity for him to showcase his complete MMA game.

He will face another fighter from Congo’s Elite Training Center, Jeanpy Michaelipes is a well-rounded martial artist who also holds a black belt in Karate, setting up a dynamic stylistic clash between refined striking, traditional martial arts foundations, and evolving MMA skillsets.

In Attendance will be a former UFC Light Heavyweight title challenger and Strikeforce Champion Renato “Babalu” Sobral who will be in Nairobi, Kenya as a Special Guest for the Grand Opening of Nairobi Jiu-JItsu Academy new facility on 28/02-01/03 at New Muthaiga Mall. 

Peng Chen, Founder of ANZA MMA, says: “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved so far with ANZA MMA. Our focus has always been on creating meaningful opportunities for martial artists and raising the standard of competition across the region. This progress has been a collective effort, and we are grateful for the partnerships, collaboration and support from Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy, One Tribe Kenya, Chanuka Self Defence and PFL Africa. As Season Two of our promotion begins this month, it reflects both the rapid growth of the sport and the exceptional talent emerging from East Africa.”

Season Two of ANZA MMA highlights its role as a proving ground for the next generation of African fighters. With athletes representing Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and DRC and top gyms across the region, the promotion continues to build a true East African platform for competitive development and international exposure.

Kenya’s tourism sector continues to play a central role in driving inclusive economic growth by creating jobs, empowering youth and women, preserving cultural heritage, and safeguarding wildlife and the environment, while strengthening the country’s global connections.

Speaking during the closing ceremony of the 4th Global Tourism Resilience Day Conference and Expo, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi underscored the importance of strengthening the sector’s capacity to withstand global shocks such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, geopolitical pressures and economic uncertainty.

Mudavadi noted that under the leadership of William Ruto, the government has adopted a diversification strategy to reduce reliance on traditional wildlife safaris and expand into emerging tourism segments, including cultural tourism, eco-tourism, meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE), sports tourism, gastronomy and digital tourism experiences.

"Tourism continues to power Kenya’s inclusive growth, creating jobs, empowering youth and women, preserving our culture, and protecting our wildlife and environment while connecting us to the world." he said

He commended Rebecca Miano, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, for steering strong sector performance, citing a significant rise in tourism earnings from KSh 268 billion in 2023 to KSh 452.2 billion in 2024, representing a 68.7 per cent increase.

According to the Prime Cabinet Secretary, Kenya received a record 2.4 million international visitors in 2024, with projections indicating that arrivals could reach 5.5 million by 2027. He said this growth is expected to translate into more employment opportunities, expanded business prospects and enhanced community development across the country.

The conference and expo brought together global tourism leaders and partners, including ministers from Jamaica, South Sudan, Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo, reinforcing Kenya’s role in shaping the future of resilient global tourism.

Mudavadi reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to collaborating with international partners to build a tourism sector that is adaptable, sustainable and capable of withstanding emerging global challenges.

Likoni residents turned up in large numbers for a vibrant draft tournament organized by Taji Langu Foundation founder Mwanahamisi Hamadi, bringing together teams from all five wards in the constituency in a show of unity, sportsmanship and community empowerment.

The event, held at a local café in Likoni, attracted participants from Mtongwe, Shika Adabu, Likoni, Bofu and Timbwani wards. The tournament not only showcased competitive draft matches but also served as a platform for community engagement and peace-building.

The initiative was organized by Taji Langu Foundation in partnership with St Thomas Hospital Likoni and Bayleaf Hospital, who conducted free medical check-ups for residents. The health camp focused on blood pressure and diabetes screening, helping participants prepare for the upcoming Holy Month of Ramadhan.

Speaking during the event, Hamadi underscored the importance of using community gatherings to foster harmony.

“Events like these are powerful platforms. They can either be used to preach peace or to spread hatred. We must intentionally choose peace and unity for the sake of our constituency,” she said.
She added that the integration of a medical camp into the tournament was deliberate, especially as Muslims prepare for fasting during Ramadhan.

"As we prepare for the Holy Month of Ramadhan, it is important for our people to know their health status. Checking blood pressure and diabetes levels is crucial before fasting. Our wellbeing as a community matters,” Hamadi noted.

Medical personnel from St Thomas Hospital Likoni and Bayleaf Hospital attended to dozens of residents, offering consultations and advice on managing lifestyle conditions during the fasting period.
Participants lauded the initiative, saying it combined recreation with social responsibility.

One of the players said the tournament had inspired draft enthusiasts to formalize their activities.

“This event has shown us that draft is more than just a game. We have resolved to open the Likoni Draft Association to help organize players, nurture talent and create empowerment opportunities for the youth,” Said Hamisi Ramisi, Chairman of the organising commitee.

The proposed association is expected to coordinate tournaments, mentor young players and explore partnerships aimed at economic and social empowerment.

Residents described the event as timely and impactful, saying it provided a safe space for interaction across wards while promoting health awareness ahead of Ramadhan.

Hamadi reiterated her commitment to supporting initiatives that unite residents and empower young people.

"Our youth need constructive engagement. Through sports, health outreach and dialogue, we can build a stronger, healthier and more peaceful Likoni,” she said.

The tournament concluded with recognition of outstanding teams and players, marking what many attendees termed as a significant step toward strengthening community ties and structured draft sports in Likoni.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has stressed the importance of Lamu Port under the LAPSSET project saying it is not just a local facility but a key gateway for the region. 

He said the port is meant to serve landlocked countries such as South Sudan and Ethiopia, opening up new trade routes that will boost economic growth, create jobs and support infrastructure development in Kenya and across East Africa.

"Lamu Port is not just for Lamu; it is for Kenya and the entire East African region. It positions this county at the heart of international commerce,” Wetang’ula said.

He urged local communities, particularly the youth to acquire relevant skills to tap into emerging opportunities linked to maritime services, logistics and trade.

"When opportunity knocks, it favours the prepared. Equip yourselves with education and technical skills so that you can participate meaningfully in the economic transformation taking place here,” he added.

Speaker Wetang’ula was speaking as Chief Guest during the Prize-Giving Day ceremony at Pate Girls Secondary School on Pate Island in Lamu County on Saturday. 

The event celebrated the school’s outstanding performance in last year’s national examinations and also featured a women empowerment programme organised by Lamu East MP, Hon. Ruweida Mohamed Obbo.

Wetang’ula lauded the school’s students, teachers and management for delivering commendable results despite geographical and infrastructural challenges. 

He described Pate Girls as a beacon of hope along the coast, demonstrating that determination and focus can overcome limitations.

“Excellence is not an accident. It is the product of discipline, sacrifice and focus. The girls we are celebrating today have proven that your background does not determine your destiny,” he said.

He encouraged the learners to remain steadfast in their academic journey cautioning them against distractions that could derail their ambitions.

"Education is your equaliser. It is your shield and your sword. Stay focused, work hard and refuse to allow early marriages, peer pressure or negative influences to steal your future,” he advised.

Commending Hon. Ruweida Mohamed Obbo for spearheading the women empowerment programme, Wetang’ula said empowering women was central to sustainable development. He observed that when women are economically and socially empowered, entire communities benefit.

“When you empower a woman, you empower a family. When you empower a girl through education, you uplift a generation,” he said.

The Speaker encouraged women in Lamu East to take advantage of government initiatives and constituency programmes aimed at enhancing entrepreneurship, financial literacy and self-reliance.

Obbo reiterated her commitment to supporting education and women’s economic initiatives, saying her office would continue investing in bursaries, infrastructure and capacity-building programmes to uplift both learners and women entrepreneurs in the constituency.

Turning to local politics, Wetang’ula advocated for negotiated democracy in Lamu County, urging leaders to embrace inclusivity and dialogue during elections to avoid ethnic exclusion and tension.

"Democracy must unite us, not divide us. If one dominant community takes all elective positions, others may feel left out. That is a recipe for conflict,” he cautioned.

He called on leaders to prioritise consensus-building and equitable representation.

“Negotiated democracy ensures that every community has a stake in leadership. We must avoid a winner-takes-all approach that breeds resentment,” he said.

The Speaker emphasised that political maturity, inclusivity and peaceful coexistence were essential to safeguarding development gains in Lamu County, particularly at a time when transformative projects such as Lamu Port are positioning the region at the centre of regional trade and economic growth.

Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has called for unity within the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), urging members to respect the party’s decision to settle on Oburu Odinga as the party leader.

Joho made the remarks on Sunday during a spirited rally at Linda Ground in Tononoka, Mombasa, presided over by party leader Oburu Odinga.

Joho said that internal cohesion was critical for ODM’s success ahead of the 2027 general elections.

"ODM has spoken and the party has settled on Oburu Odinga as the party leader and that decision must be respected by every party member,” Joho said to loud applause.

Joho, who served as Deputy Party Leader under the late Raila Odinga for 10 years, acknowledged that he was once seen as a potential leader of the party.

"I was fit to be the party leader, but because the party already made a decision, we need to respect that,” he said. “For those who want party positions, they need to wait for their time. Politics is planned.”

He emphasized that ODM belongs to all its members across Kenya and warned against divisions that could weaken the party’s standing.

“ODM party belongs to all of us. We must stand firm and strong. A lot will be said about the party, but let us be united,” Joho said.

Joho also used the rally to reaffirm his presidential ambitions, underscoring that his aspiration to lead the country remains intact.

“My presidential ambition is still there and will bank on your support,” he said. “Mombasa people, help me in defending and fighting for the party.”

Likoni Constituency parliamentary aspirant Evans Momanyi has outlined an ambitious development agenda focused on education, healthcare, youth and women empowerment, infrastructure development and social welfare as he seeks to become the next Member of Parliament for Likoni.

Speaking during a consultative meeting with residents, Momanyi said his leadership will prioritize practical solutions aimed at uplifting families and expanding economic opportunities across the constituency.

"Likoni has immense potential, but we must invest strategically in our people. Education will be my top priority because it is the foundation of long-term transformation,” Momanyi said.

Education and Youth Empowerment

Momanyi pledged to expand bursary allocations, support school infrastructure development and lobby for technical training opportunities to equip young people with market-driven skills.

"Our youth need access to quality education, technical skills and funding opportunities. I will push for more TVET scholarships and create partnerships that open doors for employment and entrepreneurship,” he stated.

He added that empowering young people would significantly reduce unemployment and social challenges within the constituency.

Healthcare and Social Welfare

On healthcare, the aspirant promised to advocate for improved health facilities, increased medical supplies and enhanced maternal and child health services.

"Access to affordable and quality healthcare is not a privilege  it is a right. I will work closely with national and county governments to ensure our health centers are properly equipped,” he said.

Women Empowerment and Infrastructure

The MP hopeful further committed to promoting women-led enterprises through capacity building and access to government funds.

"When women are empowered economically, the entire community benefits. We must ensure they have equal access to funding and business opportunities,” he noted.

On infrastructure, Momanyi said he will lobby for improved road networks, better drainage systems and enhanced public amenities to spur trade and improve living standards.

"Infrastructure is key to unlocking economic growth in Likoni. Better roads mean better business and better livelihoods,” he added.

Momanyi concluded by urging residents to rally behind his vision, promising inclusive leadership and transparent governance if elected.

“My leadership will be people-centered, accountable and focused on delivering tangible results for every ward in Likoni,” he affirmed.

The High Court in Mombasa sentenced the former Likoni Officer Commanding Station to life imprisonment for the murder of a middle-aged man in a case that has drawn sharp focus on police accountability.

Lady Justice Wendy Kagendo Micheni handed down the sentence after finding Yunus Athman guilty of killing 20‑year‑old Mbaraka Maitha Omar in 2018 at Mwenza Village in Likoni.

The prosecution, led by Ngiri Wangui, presented more than 20 witnesses to prove the case against the former chief inspector.

The court heard testimony placing him at the scene and challenging claims that the victim posed any threat.

The trial also exposed concerns over police conduct and alleged attempts to obscure the circumstances of the shooting, with multiple witnesses confirming that the deceased was unarmed and did not pose a danger.

Athman shot dead the deceased when he went to arrest him for allegedly stealing some goats. 

He fired several shots, killing the deceased on the spot despite not resisting the arrest.

In her ruling on the sentence, the judge said the court had considered mitigation, the pre‑sentence report, and the victim impact statement before settling on a custodial term for the remainder of his natural life. 

The court noted that as a police officer, the convict had a statutory duty to protect life but instead used unlawful force against a defenceless civilian.

The judge observed that abuse of state power strikes at the heart of justice and must attract a deterrent penalty.

The victim’s family told the court they continue to suffer psychological trauma following the killing, describing the act as malicious and a betrayal of public trust.

The judge directed Athman to exercise his right to appeal within 14 days against both the conviction and sentence.

Source: ODPP

The removal of Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna as ODM Secretary General has drawn sharp criticism from youth leaders, who say it highlights the party’s reluctance to embrace divergent views and young leadership.

Evans Momanyi, Chairman of the Capital Caucus Youth Group, said the decision sets a worrying precedent for young politicians aspiring to top positions.

“The removal of Edwin Sifuna shows that ODM’s current leaders do not welcome differing opinions,” Momanyi said.

Adding “Political parties must practice the democracy they preach, and that includes giving young leaders a fair chance to lead.”

Momanyi urged political parties across the country to open space for youth participation in decision-making processes.

“Youthful leaders should be given the opportunity to occupy top leadership roles. It is time for the youth to also lead,” he said.

The comments come amid nationwide calls for generational renewal in political leadership, as young leaders continue to push for greater representation within Kenya’s major parties.