Mombasa Governor bdulswamad Nassir has voiced concern over the escalating tensions in the Middle East following reported military strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran, warning that the conflict could have far-reaching global consequences.

The governor spoke during a Quran recitation competition organised by Al Shifaa Media in Mombasa, where religious scholars, parents, and young participants had gathered to celebrate Islamic teachings and values.

Addressing the audience, Governor Nassir cautioned that developments in the Middle East should not be taken lightly, noting that global conflicts often have ripple effects across continents.

What is happening in the Middle East today is worrying. When powerful nations engage in war, the effects are not limited to their borders. The whole world feels it economically, socially, and politically,” he said.

The governor referenced the reported U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran, saying such actions risk deepening instability in an already volatile region.

"We must pray that this does not escalate into a wider conflict. The danger is that such tensions can easily be misinterpreted as religious wars, and that is something the world cannot afford,” Nassir added.

He emphasised that Kenya, though geographically distant from the Middle East, could still feel the impact through increased fuel prices, disrupted trade routes, and broader economic strain.

“As Muslims and as Kenyans, our responsibility is to promote peace, unity, and understanding. We must not allow global conflicts to divide us along religious or political lines,” he said.

The Quran recitation competition, organised by Al Shifaa Media, aimed to nurture young talent and strengthen moral and spiritual values among the youth. Religious leaders present echoed the governor’s sentiments, calling for prayers for global peace and stability.

The Middle East has witnessed rising tensions following military exchanges between the United States, Israel, and Iran, prompting international calls for restraint amid fears of a broader regional conflict.

Governor Nassir concluded his remarks by urging the faithful to remain hopeful.

"Let us continue praying that peace prevails all over the world. Peace is not just a political choice it is a moral obligation.”

Residents of Mombasa on Friday evening came together for a colourful street iftar aimed at promoting unity and sharing meals during the holy month of Ramadan.

The event, organized by swahilipot Hub in partnership with partners and  community stakeholders, attracted hundreds of people who gathered to break the fast in an atmosphere marked by generosity and togetherness.

Speaking during the event held at the historic and iconic Pembe za Ndovu  Mahmoud Noor, Chief Mentor at Swahilipot Hub, said the initiative was designed to bring people together regardless of religious background.

“We are here together with other stakeholders to host a street iftar. Volunteers have come with different food items to share. The aim is to bring people together and promote unity,” said Noor.

He described the event as a pilot project, noting that organizers plan to hold another street iftar next Friday and are encouraging other cities across the country to adopt similar initiatives.

“This is just a pilot. Next Friday we will also be hosting another one. We are encouraging other cities in the country to also do the same,” he added.

Noor said the organizers were targeting at least 1,500 people, starting with snacks for the first edition, with hopes of expanding the scale in future events.

"For a start today we will begin with just snacks. We are targeting 1,500 people. This is not just for Muslims alone but all of us. We even have our Catholic brothers and sisters who can join,” he said.

He emphasized that the initiative seeks to support vulnerable residents who may struggle to afford a meal to break their fast.

"We have so many people who have fasted but do not know what they will eat to break the fast,” Noor noted.

Also present was Mbarwali Kame, the Mombasa County Executive Committee Member for Education, who lauded the initiative, saying it reflects the county’s long-standing culture of hospitality.

“Mombasa is known for its hospitality. This is the month for giving as our religion teaches us,” said Kame.

He expressed optimism that more partners would come on board to support future editions of the street iftar.

"We are expecting that more partners will join us in the future,” she added.

The event was also attended by Mohammed Machele, the Member of Parliament for Mvita, and Ali Wario, the Garsen MP, among other leaders and community representatives who joined residents in breaking the fast.

The street iftar highlighted the spirit of Ramadan  compassion, charity and unity  while reinforcing Mombasa’s reputation as a city that embraces diversity and communal harmony.

TECNO today marked a major milestone in its Dream Field Renovation Initiative with the official handover of three newly renovated community football pitches in Nairobi, as renovation works continue on a fourth pitch currently underway.

The handover ceremony, held at Kinyago Football Grounds, represented the completion of three upgraded facilities: Kinyago Football Field, Huruma Sports Ground, and Mathare Area 4 , Heide Marie Primary School, with works ongoing at Mlango Kubwa, Mathare, bringing TECNO’s total investment in Nairobi to  over KSh 20 million so far.

The initiative forms part of TECNO’s wider pan-African commitment to renovate 100 community football pitches across Africa by 2028, following its partnership agreement with the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The programme aims to improve grassroots sports infrastructure, nurture young talent, and create safe, inclusive spaces for community development through football.

Speaking during the ceremony, Victor Alufwani, emphasized the brand’s commitment to youth empowerment through sport:

“Football is deeply rooted in African culture. It is more than just a game, it is a platform for opportunity, unity, and personal growth. Through the Dream Field Renovation Initiative, we are investing directly in communities by transforming everyday spaces into safe, professional-standard football pitches where young people can train, compete, and dream. Kenya is an important part of this journey, and we are proud to have completed three pitches, with a fourth currently underway.”

The renovation works involved the installation of high-quality artificial turf and natural grass surfaces, upgraded goal posts, seating areas, pitch branding, and essential safety enhancements. Before refurbishment, most of these fields were dusty, uneven, and lacked basic sporting infrastructure, limiting their safety and usability.

“This initiative goes beyond infrastructure. It is about building environments that encourage discipline, teamwork, and positive youth engagement. Quality sporting facilities play a critical role in shaping confident, focused, and motivated young people. We commend TECNO for investing in grassroots football and partnering with communities to create long-term impact,” said Oscar Igaida, Chief Officer – Youth, Talent & Sports, Nairobi City County.

Local coaches and community leaders also welcomed the development, noting the immediate impact on participation and morale.

“Before the renovation, training was difficult and unsafe. The dusty surface often caused injuries and discouraged consistent practice. Today, the pitch has completely transformed how our players train, compete, and believe in themselves. This facility gives our children a real opportunity to grow , not only as footballers, but as disciplined and confident individuals,” said Antony Ombona, Community Coach.

The Dream Field Renovation Initiative is currently being implemented across several African markets, including Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana, Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa, reinforcing TECNO’s commitment to youth development and community empowerment through sport.

The programme complements TECNO’s broader football strategy, which spans grassroots development to continental partnerships. The brand is also the Official Global Partner of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 and 2027, underlining its long-term dedication to the growth of African football at every level.

Through the Dream Field Renovation Initiative, TECNO continues to demonstrate its belief that sustainable sports infrastructure is key to unlocking Africa’s next generation of football talent, while strengthening community ties and inspiring young people to pursue their dreams.

Bamburi Cement has launched its second annual Ramadan food distribution drive, targeting more than 4,000 vulnerable families across the country in a bid to support communities during the holy month of giving and reflection.

The initiative, which was first rolled out last year and reached 4,000 beneficiaries, has been expanded to cover key regions including Mombasa, Nairobi, Machakos and Matuga.

Speaking during the launch, Tawakal Rajab Sumba, Country Representative of Amsons Group Limited — the parent company of Bamburi Cement  said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to uplifting communities, particularly during Ramadan.

“This is our annual Ramadan initiative which we started last year, where we reached 4,000 beneficiaries. We are continuing with the same spirit this year, targeting 4,000 families across Mombasa, Nairobi, Machakos and Matuga,” said Sumba.

He noted that Ramadan is a time that calls for compassion, generosity and solidarity with the less fortunate.“As you are aware, this is the month of giving and sharing. We are undertaking this initiative to support the underprivileged in our communities and ensure they can observe the holy month with dignity,” he added.

Sumba also called upon corporate organizations to play a more active role in community development and social responsibility.

“To the corporates, let’s strive to help the communities that surround us. Businesses thrive because of the communities around them, and it is only right that we give back and uplift those in need,” he said.

He further expressed gratitude to residents of Mombasa for their continued support and partnership in the company’s community initiatives.

“We hope and pray that the support we continue to receive from the people of Mombasa will endure, as we work together to make a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable families,” Sumba noted.

Religious leaders also lauded the initiative, terming it a true reflection of the spirit of Ramadan.

Zubeir Noor, a religious leader, commended Amsons Group for its continued commitment to supporting vulnerable families during the holy month.

“Our appreciation goes to Amsons Group for this gesture. Our religion encourages us to give during this Ramadan period, and what the company is doing is in line with those teachings,” said Noor.

He added that corporate participation in faith-driven charitable efforts remains rare but deeply impactful.

“We have not seen many companies doing what they are doing, and it is very encouraging. Such initiatives strengthen our communities and give hope to families who are struggling,” he said.

Beyond the Ramadan food drive, the company announced plans to invest in the health sector in the coastal region. Sumba revealed that Bamburi Cement, through its parent company, intends to establish a cancer treatment centre in Mombasa at a cost of KSh 50 million.

“As a company, we are also intending to establish a cancer centre here in Mombasa at a tune of Sh50 million. This is part of our broader vision to contribute to critical social infrastructure that directly benefits the community,” he said.

Bamburi Cement, a subsidiary of Amsons Group Limited, has in recent years intensified its corporate social responsibility programs, focusing on community welfare, health, and sustainable development initiatives across Kenya.

The Ramadan food drive is expected to ease the burden on thousands of families facing economic hardships, reaffirming the company’s commitment to social impact and inclusive growth.

Kazandani Member of County Assembly (MCA) has declared her intention to vie for the Mombasa Woman Representative seat in 2027, citing what she described as a glaring gap in women empowerment and tangible development programs targeting women across the county.

According to Kushe said women in the county have been sidelined for too long and deserve leadership that prioritizes economic empowerment and sustainable programs over political mobilization.

"Mombasa women are longing for empowerment. For years, we have not seen any meaningful project that has directly impacted women at the grassroots level,” Kushe said.

The MCA criticized what she termed as the misuse of women and youth for political mileage instead of investing in long-term empowerment initiatives.

“We don’t want leaders whose main duty is to mobilize women and youth to attend political rallies. Our women deserve dignity, opportunities and structured programs that uplift their livelihoods,” she added.

Kushe noted that other counties have implemented impactful initiatives through their Woman Representatives’ offices, including bursary programs, table banking initiatives, maternal health support, and skills training centers.

"Go to other counties and you will see what other Woman Representatives have been able to achieve. Women are benefiting from organized funds, entrepreneurship training and development projects. Why should Mombasa be left behind?” she posed.

She pledged that her 2027 bid will focus on economic empowerment, access to national government affirmative funds, capacity building for women-led groups, and mentorship programs for young women.

According to Kushe, her leadership will prioritize transparency, accountability and measurable impact.

"Leadership is about service and results. If given the opportunity, I will ensure that every sub-county in Mombasa feels the impact of the Woman Representative’s office,” she said.

Her declaration sets the stage for what is expected to be a competitive race for the Mombasa Woman Representative seat in the 2027 General Election, with women empowerment emerging as a key campaign issue.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring public trust in county health services, following a high-level engagement with leadership and staff at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital.

The governor’s address comes just days after the suspension of the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Iqbal Kandwala, a move that has intensified scrutiny over service delivery standards at the county’s main referral facility.

Khandwallah was suspended indefinitely and replaced by Sood Mohamed in an acting capacity pending a full governance review process.

This followed concerns raised by Machele over leadership and service delivery at the facility after the death of one of his NG-CDF staff members at the hospital.

During his meeting with hospital leadership and  staff, Governor Nassir emphasized the responsibility health workers carry in serving residents of Mombasa.

“I held a candid engagement today with the leadership and staff of Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital to reaffirm our core duty: restoring public trust through reliable, compassionate care,” the governor said. “We reviewed service delivery standards and the responsibility each of us carries to the people of Mombasa who depend on this facility every day.”

In a firm directive, the governor ordered immediate and full compliance with his Executive Order requiring that all children under the age of five receive free treatment in every public hospital across the county.

“This is non-negotiable,” he stated. “Any officer who defies this directive will face firm disciplinary action.”

The order is aimed at reducing financial barriers to healthcare for vulnerable families and reinforcing the county’s commitment to equitable access to medical services.

Governor Nassir also announced that on Monday, the county government will commission a new County Call Center alongside on-site Customer Care Desks at health facilities. The initiative is designed to provide residents with a direct line to the governor’s office to report service gaps, raise concerns, and monitor how issues are resolved.

“Accountability in health care is not optional, it is the foundation of public service,” he said.

The developments signal a renewed push by the county administration to tighten oversight, strengthen governance, and rebuild confidence in public health institutions following recent leadership changes at the county’s flagship hospital.

Kenya Airways has cancelled its Nairobi–New York flights following severe winter weather and a blizzard warning affecting parts of the United States, including New York.

In a customer update issued on Sunday, the national carrier said operations at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) had been significantly impacted after airport authorities suspended flight operations for specific periods due to heavy snowfall.

“As a result of the blizzard warning and severe weather conditions affecting several parts of the United States, including heavy snowfall in New York, operations at JFK have been significantly impacted,” the airline said in a statement dated 22 February 2026.

The airline confirmed that flight KQ002 from Nairobi (NBO) to New York (JFK) scheduled for 22 February 2026 and the return flight KQ003 from New York (JFK) to Nairobi (NBO) scheduled for 23 February 2026 have been cancelled.

"Further to the above, and for the safety of our customers and crew, the following flights have been cancelled,” the statement read.

Kenya Airways apologised for the inconvenience caused to passengers, assuring them that safety remains its top priority.

“We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience and understanding. The safety and comfort of our customers and crew remains our highest priority,” the airline said.

The carrier expressed optimism that services would resume once weather conditions improve.

“We plan to operate KQ002 on 24 February 2026 and KQ003 on 25 February 2026 as scheduled once the weather improves and is safe to operate,” the statement added.

Kenya Airways said its teams are actively monitoring the situation and engaging with relevant airport stakeholders in the United States, promising to provide further updates as new information becomes available.

Passengers were advised to check the airline’s website or mobile app for the latest flight updates or contact the Customer Excellence team via phone, WhatsApp, or X (@KQSupport) for assistance.

The disruption comes as a powerful winter storm sweeps across parts of the United States, leading to widespread travel interruptions and flight suspensions at major airports.

As global efforts to combat climate change intensify, Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) has launched a pioneering Green Hydrogen (GH₂) Course aimed at equipping maritime professionals with skills to support sustainable shipping and port operations.

The pilot program, implemented in partnership with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), positions the Mombasa-based institution at the forefront of green maritime training in the region.

Green hydrogen is increasingly being recognized worldwide as a clean alternative fuel capable of significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions from vessels and port activities —a critical step toward decarbonizing the global shipping industry.

Speaking during the launch, Principal Curriculum Development Officer Silas Khasindu, said the initiative reflects the Academy’s commitment to aligning maritime training with emerging global environmental standards.

"This program empowers our cadets to actively contribute to the decarbonization of the maritime shipping sector. By integrating green hydrogen technologies into our curriculum, we are preparing a new generation of maritime professionals capable of leading the transition toward sustainable shipping,” Khasindu said.

He noted that through the course, trainees will gain competencies in alternative clean energy solutions for ships, green port management, and the safe handling of vessels powered by alternative energy sources.

BMA Assistant Director of Quality Assurance Michael Njogah explained that the pilot program targets Level 6 Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) students, ensuring that graduates are equipped with industry-relevant skills aligned with both national and international standards.

"The course has been structured to meet competency-based education requirements while responding to the growing demand for environmentally responsible maritime operations,” Njogah said.

Nautical trainer Jacob Kazungu emphasized the practical component of the program, highlighting that cadets will receive hands-on exposure to emerging green technologies and operational safety procedures for hydrogen-powered vessels.

"Our trainees will not only learn the theory behind green hydrogen but also understand operational safety and technical requirements for handling alternative fuel-powered ships,” Kazungu said.

The launch marks a significant milestone for maritime education in Kenya, coming at a time when the global shipping industry faces mounting pressure to reduce carbon emissions and transition toward cleaner energy sources.

By integrating green hydrogen into its curriculum, Bandari Maritime Academy is positioning itself as a regional leader in sustainable maritime training and contributing to Kenya’s broader climate action and blue economy agenda.

Over 2,000 mangrove trees have been planted at Mkupe Creek by Wild Heart Kenya in a major conservation exercise aimed at restoring coastal ecosystems and addressing the impacts of climate change.

The initiative brought together environmentalists and community volunteers in a coordinated effort to rehabilitate degraded areas of the creek.

Mangroves play a critical role in stabilizing shorelines, preventing soil erosion, and serving as breeding grounds for fish and other marine life. Environmental experts note that restoring mangrove forests is key to safeguarding livelihoods for coastal communities that depend on fishing and marine resources.

Speaking during the exercise, organizers emphasized the importance of community-driven conservation efforts.

They noted that sustainable environmental protection can only be achieved through partnerships between civil society, local residents, and stakeholders.

"Mangroves are not just trees; they are life support systems for our coastal communities. By restoring them, we are protecting biodiversity, strengthening climate resilience, and securing the future of our blue economy,” said Wild Heart Kenya Co-founder Brandy Chan.

On his part Chindoro Mwingo, Chairman of Mkupe Mazingira, said: “Mangroves are very important to us because of our daily work, fishing. Climate change is real, and we need more effort in restoring our mangroves since we are being affected.”

Residents who participated in the exercise welcomed the initiative, saying it will help revive fish breeding areas and improve environmental sustainability in the region.

The initiative underscores the growing momentum of grassroots-led conservation efforts along Kenya’s coastline  a reminder that environmental protection begins with collective action at the community level.