Political talk within Mombasa’s Nyali constituency is beginning to gather momentum following growing speculation that businessman Salim Salim, a close associate of Mininh Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho, could be preparing a bid for the parliamentary seat currently held by Mohammed Ali.

Salim, who is frequently seen accompanying CS Joho at public engagements and political events across the Coast region, has not made any formal declaration regarding his political ambitions. However, sources within local political circles claim he is quietly exploring the possibility of entering the Nyali parliamentary race in the next general election cycle.

The speculation comes at a time when incumbent MP Mohammed Ali is widely believed to be eyeing a gubernatorial run, a move that could leave the Nyali seat open and trigger a competitive political contest among emerging aspirants.

Efforts to reach Salim Salim for comment were unsuccessful by the time of publication, and he has not publicly addressed the ongoing speculation.

Political analysts note that Nyali remains one of Mombasa’s most strategic constituencies, often attracting high-profile candidates due to its economic significance and diverse voter base. With early political realignments already taking shape ahead of the next election season, more aspirants are expected to emerge as the race gradually begins to take form.

As discussions continue within political and community circles, residents and stakeholders are likely to keep a close watch on any formal announcements that could reshape the future leadership landscape in Nyali.

Car & General (C&G), a leading supplier of power generation, engineering, and mobility solutions in East Africa, participated in the 3rd Nyeri National Polytechnic International Research, Science & Innovation Conference and Skills Expo, held between 4th and 6th February 2026.

The event brought together educationists, innovators, researchers, policymakers, and TVET stakeholders to advance skills development and technology adoption across Kenya. C&G exhibited TVS motorcycles, power generation equipment, and technical training initiatives under the CarGen Tech-Up program.

Speaking during the event, Raphael Atanda, Head of Communications at Car & General, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting TVET institutions and empowering youth with industry-relevant skills.

He noted that collaboration between technical institutions and industry will produce not only job ready graduates, but also self-reliant youth that drive the economy through entrepreneurship.

"As a result of our MOU with the Nyeri National Polytechnic, we will be inaugurating a state-of-the-art motorcycle repair centre at the institute. Our focus on two-wheelers as part of this collaboration is informed by the impact of the motorcycles on the economy”, said Raphael Atanda.

 “We know that motorcycles are not just mobility tools but are economic lifelines powering millions of lives across Kenya from youth employment to last-mile delivery. Boda bodas provide reliable, efficient and sustainable mobility solutions that support riders, SMEs and growing industries. We are now enhancing our investment in two and three-wheeler electric vehicles coupled with the necessary infrastructure. We are excited to play our part through enhanced partnerships with technical institutions, like Nyeri National Polytechnic, in Kenya”, he added.

The two-wheeler sector has over 2 million riders, 75% of whom are youth, and employs millions more in its ecosystem that includes fuel, service and spare parts and insurance suppliers.

It is a major informal economic engine that contributes substantially to Kenya’s GDP at about 4.4%. Riders earn up to 1,000 shillings per day and the sector contributes over 60 billion fuel tax to the government.

Car & General is marking 90 years of shaping the region’s mobility and power landscape, a journey anchored in innovation resilience and sustainability, this year.

East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member of Parliament Suleiman Shahbal has called for greater investment in Mombasa’s creative industry, championing the need for a film festival and cultural events that can showcase the city’s talent, draw more tourists, and promote positive stories about the coastal region.

Shahbal was speaking on Thursday evening during the premiere of the Kenyan crime drama Mizani by AR Films Production at the historic Fort Jesus in Mombasa.

The series, set and filmed in the coastal city, is set to premiere on Showmax on February 5, 2026, and tells the gripping story of a journalist caught in a web of crime, corruption, and family conflict in Mombasa.

Shahbal highlighted how creative arts and cultural events can help reposition Mombasa’s image beyond crime headlines.

“The creative industry is a very important industry,” he said. “If you go to any sophisticated city there is something unique a culture that improves the image of the city.”

Shahbal noted that neighboring regions already host globally recognized cultural festivals, pointing to the Zanzibar International Festival as an example of how arts and culture can draw visitors and celebrate local heritage.

“Just across here we have Zanzibar International Festival. We need to have Mombasa International Film Festival,” he said, adding that Mombasa “should be a city that hosts concerts” given the steady flow of visitors to the coast.

He emphasized that concerts and festivals would “spice up” the experience of both local residents and tourists, while also creating platforms for young talent to shine.

“This will also be one way of selling Mombasa and promoting the culture, talents and our youth,” Shahbal said.

The EALA MP also urged storytellers and the media to focus more on uplifting narratives about the city.

“When you want to promote yourself as a city it all boils down to us,” he said. “We need to tell positive stories of Mombasa through arts, not every time just stories on crime in the media.”

The screening of Mizani produced by AR Films and featuring a cast including Michael Saruni and Stephanie Maseki underscores the growing ambition of Kenyan storytellers to produce high-quality narratives rooted in local realities.

The National Government has officially taken over the construction of the long-awaited 15,000-seater modern Mombasa Stadium following comprehensive technical assessments and consultations with the County Government of Mombasa, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has announced.

According to CS Mvurya, the move is aimed at fast-tracking completion of the FIFA-standard facility and positioning the Coast region as a strategic low-altitude sports hub capable of hosting major national and international competitions.

"The National Government has taken over the construction of the 15,000-seater modern Mombasa Stadium following comprehensive technical assessments and consultations with the County Government of Mombasa,” said Mvurya.

“Upon formal handover and receipt of the project’s current fiscal status, our technical team will conduct a detailed review of the remaining scope of works to guide completion in line with approved government designs and standards.”

Mvurya noted that the directive was issued by President William Ruto as part of efforts to enhance sports infrastructure across the country and unlock new opportunities in sports tourism and youth development.

"The FIFA-standard facility will serve as a strategic low-altitude sports hub, positioning Mombasa and the Coast region as a centre for sports tourism while providing a world-class alternative venue for hosting major competitions,” he added.

The announcement followed a high-level meeting involving Principal Secretaries Elijah Mwangi (Sports) and Dr. Patrick Mariru (Defence), alongside technical teams, who conveyed the government’s readiness to Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir during a morning engagement.

Governor Nassir welcomed the development, describing it as a historic breakthrough that signals a new chapter for the county’s sports sector.

"Mombasa Stadium is back —and it’s happening,” said Nassir. “I hosted Sports PS Elijah Mwangi, Defence PS Dr. Patrick Mariru and officials from Sports Kenya following a successful engagement with President William Ruto that has unlocked National Government support to complete this iconic project.”

The governor termed the agreement a “major breakthrough” and a “game changer” for the city, expressing optimism that the project would now be completed within the year.

"After years of planning, the stadium is now firmly back on track and set for completion by the end of the year. This agreement marks a turning point for our city and places Mombasa squarely back on the continental stage as Kenya prepares to host AFCON 2027,” Nassir said.

He added that beyond continental tournaments, the facility would provide long-term benefits including youth development, sports tourism, employment opportunities and the hosting of major global events.

"We made a promise to bring this project back to life. We pushed, we engaged and we delivered,” he said.

Once completed, the modern stadium is expected to become a key sports and economic hub for the Coast region, strengthening Kenya’s preparations for upcoming international tournaments and enhancing opportunities for local athletes.

Mombasa County Assembly Speaker Aharub khatri has fulfilled a pledge to support more than 50 young people in acquiring passports, a move aimed at expanding employment and travel opportunities while empowering youth to pursue better futures.

According to Aharub the initiative is part of a broader commitment to transform lives and offer meaningful opportunities to young people who have chosen to walk away from social vices and embrace positive change.

"Today, I honored a promise I made a month ago to over 50 young people, supporting them to acquire their passports,” said Aharub.

Adding “These youth chose to turn their lives around by walking away from social vices and choosing a better path. True change goes beyond words,  it means preparing them for the future and opening doors to employment opportunities both within our country and beyond our borders.”

He emphasized that the initiative seeks to restore hope among young people who once felt excluded from opportunities, adding that his commitment to youth empowerment remains unwavering.

"My commitment has never wavered and remains clear — to transform lives, restore hope and reconnect our young people to meaningful opportunities so that they can live a dignified life,” he added.

Beneficiaries of the program expressed gratitude, saying the support would help them pursue education, employment and international opportunities.

Halima Juma said financial challenges had previously prevented her from owning a passport, describing the initiative as life-changing.

“I have always wanted to own a passport but due to financial challenges I have not been able to do so. Mine is to thank the Speaker for this move, I believe it is going to open many doors for me,” she said.

For Irene Aseka, receiving her first passport marked a significant milestone as she searches for employment opportunities.

"This will be my first passport. I have never owned one and it will help me in securing a job since I’m currently jobless,” she noted.

Jimson Makaya, an electrical engineering student, said the document would help him pursue work opportunities abroad.

“My goal is to look for a job outside the country and I now have one of the major requirements thanks to our Speaker. This initiative will go a long way in solving youth unemployment since many will be able to seek jobs even beyond our borders,” he said.

The passport support program is part of ongoing youth empowerment efforts in Mombasa aimed at enhancing skills, promoting positive social change and improving access to economic opportunities locally and internationally.

Jomvu Member of Parliament Badi Twalib has defended his constituency’s education programmes, insisting that no student will be discriminated against in the allocation of bursaries regardless of where they or their parents come from.

Speaking during the awarding of cheques under the NG-CDF sponsorship programme, Twalib said more than 40 students have already benefited from scholarships aimed at improving access to education and uplifting livelihoods in the area.

"Jomvu is a constituency of opportunities. No single student will be discriminated against in terms of bursary just because they or their parents come from a different constituency,” said Twalib.

The MP used the event to urge political leaders and residents to avoid dragging education into political battles ahead of the 2027 General Election.

"Let’s stop playing politics with the education of our children. Elections will come in 2027 — that is the time for politics. For now, let’s focus on improving education and the livelihood of our people,” he added.

Twalib also responded to critics allegedly campaigning to unseat him, saying his development record in education speaks for itself.

"Some people are going round saying they want to get me out of office. If you want to see my impact, look at these students and what we have been able to do for them through education,” he said.

Highlighting progress made since he assumed office, the MP noted that Jomvu had undergone significant transformation in the education sector.

He said the construction of new schools had reduced the need for students to seek learning opportunities in neighbouring constituencies.

"I came to office when our students used to go to other constituencies to get education. I have built several schools in Jomvu where our students can now learn. Jomvu used to be like a village, but today we are producing students who are joining national schools,” he said.

The NG-CDF scholarship programme targets needy and bright learners.

The Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, Mr. Davis Chirchir, EGH, today officially launched the National Electric Mobility (e-Mobility) Policy, marking a major milestone in Kenya’s transition towards a cleaner, more efficient and low-carbon Transport System. 

Speaking at the launch ceremony held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC), CS Chirchir said the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) would significantly reduce Kenya’s annual petroleum import bill - currently estimated at US$5 billion, which places considerable strain on the country’s foreign exchange reserves, undermines energy security and exposes the economy to global fuel price volatility. 

Citing data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), the Cabinet Secretary said that petroleum products were the largest single import category in 2023, with fuel imports rising sharply to KShs. 628.4 billion, up from KShs. 348.3 billion in 2021. 

“This substantial fuel import bill reflects Kenya’s heavy reliance on imported petroleum for transport, industry, power generation and aviation - making fuel one of the most significant components of our total import expenditure,” said CS Chirchir. 

During the event, the Cabinet Secretary also launched green reflective number plates for 100 per cent electric vehicles registered in Kenya.  

 Mr. Chirchir emphasised that the e-Mobility Policy was developed through strong public-private sector collaboration, with the private sector chairing the Taskforce.  

CS Chirchir noted that electric mobility is no longer optional, but a strategic necessity for Kenya’s economic resilience and environmental sustainability.

"As at 2025, Kenya had registered cumulatively 39,324 EVs, up from 1,378 EVs in 2022, representing over 2700% increase in just three years. The bodaboda vehicle category - popular and widely used for the last mile connectivity registered the highest percentage increment,” said the CS, adding that the increase was due to the various affordable EV products being introduced in the country by financial institutions including vehicle asset financing targeting the e-Mobility industry.

The Cabinet Secretary added that this growth reflects strong market confidence and increasing public acceptance of electric mobility.

To support implementation, the Government is developing a National Electric Mobility Strategy to ensure coordinated, effective and structured execution of the Policy. 

CS Chirchir further highlighted incentives introduced through the Finance Bill 2025, including: 

 Zero-rating of VAT on electric buses, electric bicycles, electric motorcycles and lithium-ion batteries; and  Reduction of excise duty to zero per cent on electric bicycles, electric motorcycles and lithium-ion batteries. 

The Minister disclosed that the National Electric Mobility Policy covers all modes of transport and provides a clear and enabling framework for the adoption, regulation and expansion of electric mobility in Kenya.

The Policy promotes investment in the e-Mobility ecosystem, strengthens institutional coordination, fosters innovation, and encourages meaningful private-sector participation. 

"Through this Policy, Kenya aims to decarbonise and modernise the transport sector, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, enhance energy security, and meet its climate commitments, while unlocking the potential of electric mobility to create green jobs and drive inclusive economic growth under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda,” said the CS.

He added that leveraging Kenya’s abundant renewable energy resources would reduce over-reliance on imported fossil fuels while creating new value chains in manufacturing, assembly, services and skills development. 

Speaking at the event, the Principal Secretary, State Department for Industrialisation, Dr. Juma Mukhwana, said demand for electric vehicles in Kenya currently outstrips supply. 

Dr. Mukhwana said that EV technology has matured and emphasised the need for increased short-term financing to enable companies to expand local assembly plants as Kenya prepares for long-term domestic manufacturing of EVs and related components.  

Dr. Mukhwana also observed that EV charging infrastructure remains concentrated in Nairobi and should be expanded to other towns across the country. 

The PS further observed that EV charging infrastructure was concentrated around Nairobi and should now be rolled out to other towns across the country. 

In his remarks, the German Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Sebastian Groth, said that electric mobility is central to sustainable development and the global clean-energy transition.  

Amb. Groth said that Kenya has the potential to become a regional leader in e-Mobility and clean energy, and reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to supporting Kenya in implementing the National e-Mobility Policy. 

Similarly, the EU Deputy Head of Mission to Kenya, Ambassador Ondrej Šimek, described Kenya as a regional champion in renewable energy, with over 90 per cent of electricity generated from renewable sources.  

Amb. Simek said the European Union remains committed to supporting sustainable development, green investment and job creation in clean energy and transportation sectors. 

"Kenya’s National E-Mobility Policy marks a bold step toward a cleaner, more competitive future for the country. IFC is proud to have partnered with the Government of Kenya to support the legal and regulatory framework for this transformation. Electric mobility will create jobs, boost local manufacturing, and reduce dependence on costly fuel imports. For drivers, this policy will mean lower operating costs for vehicles and better access to charging stations. IFC looks forward to helping Kenya attract the investment it needs to build its e-mobility infrastructure and help the country become an African leader in the sector." Mary Porter Peschka, Division Director, Eastern Africa, International Finance Corporation

The Ministry developed the policy with technical and financial support from various development partners, namely: the European Union; the Federal Republic of Germany through GIZ; the United Kingdom through the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office; the International Finance Corporation; and the University of California, Davis, USA. 

Also present at the event were the Principal Secretary for Transport, Mr. Mohamed Daghar; Principal Secretary for Roads, Eng. Joseph Mbugua; Members of Parliament Hon. Tom Kajwang’ and Hon. Eng. John Chege Kiragu; the Chairperson of the defunct Taskforce, Mr. Daniel Ngumi; and the President of the Electric Mobility Association of Kenya, Mr. Hezbon Mose, among other distinguished dignitaries. 

Coastal musician Nyota Ndogo has expressed excitement after meeting National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) Chairman Hon. Khatib Mwashetani, following the release of her road safety sensitisation song titled Dereva.

The song, which has been enjoying airplay across radio stations, is part of a public awareness drive encouraging responsible driving and adherence to traffic rules.

Nyota Ndogo said the engagement with NTSA leadership marked a significant milestone in her journey of using music for social impact.

Speaking after the meeting, the celebrated artist thanked her fans for amplifying the message and helping her reach the NTSA chairman.

"First thing first, I want to take this opportunity to humble myself and thank all my fans who helped me reach the one and only Hon. Khatib Mwashetani, NTSA Chairman. It is the first time to meet this humble man with a golden heart,” she said.

Nyota Ndogo noted that Dereva was inspired by the need to address the rising cases of road accidents and promote a culture of responsibility among drivers, conductors and road users.

She also appreciated the NTSA team for their support and warm reception, acknowledging key members of the chairman’s office.

"I also want to thank the NTSA office department—Davy Davy, the personal assistant; Charly Danny, head aide; Yuri Kassim and Hima Athman, aides; and Omar Masemo for photography. God bless you all,” she added.

Mombasa Empowerment Community-Based Organisation (CBO) is set to host a two-day tax and port compliance awareness sensitisation forum aimed at equipping its members with essential knowledge on tax obligations and regulatory procedures.

The awareness campaign, to be conducted in partnership with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Mombasa office, will feature expert presentations on key areas including tax return filing, withholding tax, simplified tax filing platforms, and the use of AI-powered tools to enhance compliance.

Participants will also be taken through procurement procedures, special tax tables, and other statutory obligations relevant to businesses operating within the coastal and port economy.

Speaking ahead of the forum, Mombasa Empowerment CBO Chairperson Evans Momanyi said the initiative is designed to empower members with practical skills while fostering a cooperative relationship with government institutions.

"This is an opportunity for our members to be informed and equipped with the right skills to comply with tax and port regulations,” Momanyi said.

He emphasized that the CBO is keen on promoting partnership rather than confrontation with tax authorities.

“We don’t want to be seen as an enemy of KRA or the government, but as a partner. Compliance becomes easier when there is understanding and engagement,” he noted.

Momanyi further revealed that the organisation is exploring ways to collaborate with KRA beyond compliance, including joint Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities that benefit the wider community.

“We want to work closely with KRA not just on tax matters but also in supporting community initiatives through CSR,” he added.

The forum is expected to attract CBO members involved in trade, logistics, and small and medium enterprises, particularly those whose operations are linked to the Port of Mombasa.