Renowned chef Yusuf Gharani has officially embarked on an ambitious attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest barbecue marathon, kicking off the historic challenge at Swahilipot Hub in Mombasa.

The marathon got underway on Saturday, with the chef already 47 minutes into the challenge as supporters, family, friends and members of the public gathered to witness the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable test of endurance and culinary skill. 

Chef Yusuf is expected to grill continuously for seven days and seven nights, adhering to Guinness World Records guidelines that allow only five minutes of rest for every hour completed. The challenge will run until August 8, during which he will remain at the grilling station for nearly the entire duration. 

The record attempt has drawn excitement from Mombasa residents and food enthusiasts, with many turning up at Swahilipot Hub to cheer him on as he begins the demanding journey.

If successful, Chef Yusuf will etch his name into the Guinness World Records, showcasing not only his passion for barbecue but also Kenya’s growing culinary excellence on the global stage.

Supporters are expected to continue streaming into the venue throughout the week to encourage the chef as he pushes the limits of endurance in pursuit of history.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir has announced that the county government will immediately recruit more than 500 nurses on contract to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services following a nationwide strike notice issued by the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN).

Speaking during a press briefing at his office on Thursday evening, Nassir assured residents that public health facilities across the county will remain operational regardless of the planned industrial action.

“There shall be no disruption of healthcare services in Mombasa,” the governor said.

“The County Government’s foremost responsibility is to protect life and guarantee the continuous delivery of essential services. I have therefore directed the County Public Service Board to immediately commence the recruitment of over 500 nurses on contract to ensure that healthcare services remain uninterrupted for the people of Mombasa.”

Nassir described the strike notice as premature, noting that parties to the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) are still engaged in discussions aimed at resolving the outstanding issues.

“In my view, the strike notice is premature because the parties to the Collective Bargaining Agreement remain actively engaged in discussions. I remain hopeful that these engagements will yield an amicable solution that serves the best interests of both healthcare workers and the public,” he said.

The governor appealed to nurses in Mombasa to continue serving residents while negotiations continue, citing the constructive relationship the county government has maintained with healthcare workers over the years.

“I therefore appeal to our nurses in Mombasa, in the spirit of the constructive partnership we have built over the years, to continue serving our people as these discussions continue. We value your service and remain committed to addressing legitimate concerns through dialogue and the appropriate legal and institutional processes.”

Nassir, who also chairs the Council of Governors Health Committee, said county governments are pursuing legal intervention over the strike notice, arguing that several of the issues raised by the union are still under discussion or fall outside the direct mandate of individual counties.

He also revealed that the county had received isolated reports of individuals attempting to intimidate healthcare workers and discourage patients from seeking treatment at public health facilities.

“We have received isolated reports of individuals attempting to intimidate healthcare workers and chase patients away from our health facilities. Such actions are unacceptable, undermine the constitutional right of residents to access healthcare, and will not be tolerated.”

The governor emphasized that the decision to recruit additional nurses was intended solely to guarantee uninterrupted healthcare services and should not be viewed as punitive.

“This is not a punitive measure against any healthcare worker. It is a necessary intervention to ensure that residents continue receiving essential healthcare services while the matter is being addressed through dialogue and the courts.”

He reiterated that no patient would be denied treatment in Mombasa because of the planned industrial action.

“Our commitment remains unwavering. No patient will be turned away, no hospital will be closed, and every resident who walks into a public health facility in Mombasa will continue to receive the care they need.”

The Kenya National Union of Nurses has issued a nationwide strike notice citing unresolved issues, including the implementation of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the 2017 Return-to-Work Formula, career progression guidelines, the absorption of Universal Health Coverage nurses, and other labour-related concerns.

County governments, through the Council of Governors, have indicated they will seek legal redress while negotiations continue in an effort to avert the planned industrial action.

Former Cabinet Secretary Aisha Jumwa has resigned from the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA), marking a major political shift ahead of the 2027 General Election and setting the stage for her anticipated bid for the Kilifi gubernatorial seat. 

Speaking on Thursday, Jumwa described her resignation as one of the most difficult decisions of her political career, saying it followed months of reflection, prayer and consultations with the people of Kilifi.

“Today, I have made one of the most difficult decisions of my political journey. After deep reflection, prayer, and listening to the voices of the people of Kilifi, I have officially resigned from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA),” she said.

Jumwa emphasized that her departure from the ruling party was not driven by bitterness but by what she termed as her commitment to safeguarding democratic principles and the people’s right to freely choose their leaders.

“This decision is guided not by anger, but by my conscience and my unwavering commitment to defend the democratic right of the people to choose their leaders freely. My loyalty has always been, and will always remain, with the people of Kilifi.”

The former Gender Cabinet Secretary reiterated her commitment to championing the interests of Kilifi residents, saying her political journey remains anchored on justice, accountability, opportunity and servant leadership.

“I remain steadfast in our shared vision for a county built on justice, accountability, opportunity, and servant leadership.”

While she did not immediately reveal her next political party, Jumwa disclosed that she would soon unveil the political vehicle she intends to use as she seeks to challenge for the Kilifi governorship in the 2027 elections.

“In the coming days, we shall unveil the political vehicle that will carry our collective dream for a better Kilifi.”

She also thanked her supporters for standing by her throughout her political journey.

“I thank you for your continued trust, prayers, and unwavering support. Together, we will write the next chapter of Kilifi’s future.”

Jumwa’s exit from UDA comes amid increasing political realignments across the country as leaders position themselves ahead of the 2027 General Election. A founding member of UDA and one of President William Ruto’s most vocal allies at the Coast, her departure is expected to reshape the political landscape in Kilifi, where she is preparing for another stab at the governor’s seat after unsuccessfully contesting the position in 2022. 

The Mombasa County Government has taken another major step towards addressing youth unemployment with the commencement of the registration of colleges and vocational institutions that will implement the Skills Mtaani Programme.

The initiative, which forms part of Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir’s youth empowerment agenda, will combine technical training, financial support through a revolving fund and digital monitoring systems to ensure transparency and accountability.

Speaking during the registration exercise, Governor Nassir said unemployment continues to be one of the county’s most pressing challenges and requires practical interventions that create opportunities for young people.

“We are bringing together institutions because we want to work collectively to solve unemployment. This programme is about creating opportunities and giving our youth the skills they need to build sustainable livelihoods.”

The Governor said the programme has been designed with strict accountability measures to ensure fairness in the selection of institutions and beneficiaries.

He announced that only registered and approved colleges will participate, after which the Department of ICT will roll out a digital application platform where young people can independently choose their preferred institutions.

“There will be no discrimination in this programme. Every eligible young person will have an equal opportunity to apply and select the institution they wish to attend.”

Governor Nassir also said digital attendance tracking will be introduced to monitor participation and protect public resources.

“This investment must produce results. Attendance monitoring will help us ensure that those benefiting from county support are actively participating in the training and are ready for the next level of assistance.”

Upon successful completion of training, beneficiaries will be considered for support through the county’s revolving fund to acquire tools and equipment required to start businesses or pursue employment.

The Governor said some graduates are also expected to secure overseas employment opportunities through the skills acquired.

Airport Ward MCA and Education Committee Chairperson Ibrahim Omondi described the programme as a bold investment in the future of Mombasa’s youth.

“Knowledge and skills are the currency of today’s economy. By partnering with accredited institutions, the county government is creating a pathway for young people to become self-reliant and competitive in the job market.”

He added that the County Assembly fully supports the initiative and called on young people to take advantage of the opportunities once applications are opened.

The Skills Mtaani Programme is expected to benefit thousands of young people across Mombasa through a transparent, technology-driven system that prioritizes fairness, accountability and quality training while strengthening the county’s long-term strategy for reducing unemployment.

The County Government of Mombasa has announced the launch of the Skills Mtaani initiative, a programme aimed at strengthening technical and vocational education through partnerships with training institutions across the county.

The registration and partnership drive is scheduled to take place on Thursday, July 30, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. at Tononoka Hall, where Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, vocational colleges and skills training centres will be invited to register and collaborate with the county government. 

Organised by the Mombasa County Department of Education and Vocational Training under the Elimu Scheme, the initiative seeks to bring together institutions offering diverse technical and professional courses, including TVET colleges, vocational training centres, henna training colleges, make-up colleges, salon and beauty schools, and other skills development institutions.

According to the county government, the programme is designed to enhance access to quality technical and vocational education while creating stronger linkages between training institutions and county-led youth empowerment programmes.

The initiative is expected to expand opportunities for young people to acquire practical, market-driven skills that improve employability and entrepreneurship. 

The county has urged all eligible institutions to participate in the registration exercise and become partners in advancing skills development under the Skills Mtaani programme.

Officials say the collaboration will help build a coordinated network of accredited training providers capable of equipping Mombasa’s youth with competencies required in sectors such as engineering, automotive technology, electrical installation, hospitality, tailoring, beauty and creative arts. 

The Skills Mtaani initiative forms part of the county government’s broader agenda of investing in human capital development by making technical and vocational education more accessible and responsive to the needs of the job market. Through partnerships with training institutions, Mombasa County aims to empower more young people with practical skills that can drive economic growth, innovation and self-employment. 

Council of Governors Health Committee Chairperson and Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has called for greater accountability among healthcare workers, saying Kenyans deserve quality and reliable health services in return for the huge investments county governments make in the health sector.

Speaking during the official opening of the 2026 Devolution Sensitisation Week in Garissa, Governor Nassir said county governments continue to invest heavily in training healthcare professionals, equipping health facilities and paying staff salaries, making accountability to wananchi a fundamental responsibility. 

“Accountability in healthcare is accountability to the mwananchi. County governments invest heavily in training our healthcare workers, equipping our facilities and paying salaries, and the public deserves a fair return through reliable, quality services,” Nassir said.

He noted that the Council of Governors would strengthen supervision across county health facilities to ensure healthcare workers uphold professionalism and deliver quality services.

“Going forward, we will strengthen supervision and accountability across our facilities,” he said.

The governor also cautioned health workers against engaging in private business during official working hours, describing the practice as a misuse of public resources and a betrayal of public trust.

“No healthcare worker should be conducting private business when they are meant to be serving patients in a public facility. That is an abuse of public time and public resources, and we must be prepared to treat it for what it is—a form of corruption,” he stated.

While acknowledging the critical role played by healthcare workers in delivering services, Nassir emphasized that government support must be matched by commitment and integrity.

“Our healthcare workers deserve our support, but with that support comes a responsibility to serve,” he added.

The week-long Devolution Sensitisation Week has brought together national and county government leaders, development partners, civil society organizations and members of the public to showcase the gains made under devolution while discussing strategies to improve governance and service delivery across counties. 

Green Eagles secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Magongo United in the ongoing Sisi ni Dola Cup, while Nabadda FC and Fayaz FC played out a thrilling 4-4 draw in an action-packed matchday at Mombasa Sports Club Ground B.

Green Eagles claimed all three points thanks to a stoppage-time strike from Alex Nyamawi, who found the back of the net in the 45+2nd minute after being set up by Ali Washe. The goal proved to be the difference in a tightly contested encounter.

Nyamawi’s outstanding performance earned him the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, while goalkeeper Ali Yusuf kept a clean sheet to help Green Eagles preserve their slender lead until the final whistle.

The match saw only one booking, with Tyson Muga of Green Eagles receiving a yellow card in the 67th minute for stopping a promising attack.

The defeat confirmed Magongo United’s elimination from the tournament.

In the day’s other fixture, spectators were treated to an entertaining eight-goal contest as Nabadda FC and Fayaz FC settled for a dramatic 4-4 draw.

Fayaz FC took an early lead through Joshua Oyoo in the 3rd minute, assisted by Abdhalla Mwinyi, before Oyoo added his second goal later in the first half. Nabadda responded through Izzadin Ramadhan before Steve Jiragwa scored twice, with an own goal by Ali Abdalla adding to their tally.

Fayaz fought back with goals from Hamiid Mohamed and Abdhalla Mwinyi, ensuring both sides shared the spoils after an intense contest that went down to the closing minutes.

Jiragwa’s brace and influential display saw him named the Match MVP.

Discipline was also tested during the encounter, with Mubarak Juma of Nabadda FC receiving a yellow card, while Hassan Swaleh and Omar Samobwana were cautioned for Fayaz FC.

Following the draw, Fayaz FC remain in contention and will have to wait to learn their fate, while Magongo United have officially exited the competition.

The Sisi ni Dola Cup continues with teams battling for places in the knockout stages as the tournament gathers momentum.

The Mombasa County Creative Economy Taskforce has concluded the validation of its long-awaited report, with stakeholders calling for unity, stronger policy support and increased investment to transform the county into a leading creative economy hub.

The validation exercise brought together artists, filmmakers, musicians, actors, cultural practitioners, government officials and private sector representatives to review recommendations expected to guide the growth of the county’s creative industry.

Speaking during the forum, Youth, Gender and Sports Chief Officer Goshi said Mombasa had distinguished itself as the only county to establish a dedicated creative economy taskforce, demonstrating Governor Abdulswamad Nassir’s commitment to empowering creatives.

“Mombasa is the only county to form such a taskforce, and that shows how serious the Governor is about empowering the creative sector. As stakeholders, we must not take this lightly. We need to work closely with the county government to ensure its success,” said Goshi.

He acknowledged that the process had not been without challenges but expressed confidence that collaboration would ultimately benefit everyone in the industry.

“There have been many challenges along the way, but in the end we will all be winners. The creative economy has many different sectors and we must work together as one family. This is an opportunity we have all been waiting for, and we must strive to make it happen,” he added.

Taskforce Chairman Ali Manzu said the report was the product of extensive consultations, noting that differing opinions among members had ultimately strengthened the final document.

“We had disagreements and misunderstandings while developing this report, but we eventually found common ground because we all wanted what is best for the industry. We now ask for your cooperation and support as we move to the implementation stage,” he said.

Actress Aisha Mwajumlah challenged creatives to embrace unity, saying meaningful progress would only be achieved through collective action.

“We can hold forums like this every day, but without unity we will not move an inch. We need to support one another if we are to prosper. Let this not be the end of the conversation,” she said.

Creative industry stakeholder Stephanie Maseki urged the county to prioritize implementation over promises, warning against duplicating existing initiatives.

“We currently do not even have a database showing how many creatives are in Mombasa. We cannot keep talking about creating film festivals when the existing one is not functioning. Let us not reinvent the wheel. Let us include clear timelines in these recommendations and ensure this process does not become politicized as we approach the election period,” she said.

Key findings

The taskforce identified several challenges slowing the growth of Mombasa’s creative economy, including:

• Inadequate public exhibition and performance spaces.
• Limited knowledge on business registration and licensing.
• Poor understanding of intellectual property rights and contractual agreements.
• Lack of local film festivals and platforms to showcase creative work.
• Limited branding, business development and professional training.
• Insufficient media exposure for local talent.
• Absence of a structured funding framework and startup support.
• Difficulties in accessing public spaces for film production.

Recommendations

Among the key proposals contained in the report are:

• Increased county support through regular exhibitions and promotional programmes.
• A structured civic education and awareness programme for creatives.
• Integration of arts infrastructure into county development plans.
• Incentives, including tax and penalty waivers, for investors supporting creative enterprises.
• Greater private sector participation in financing and training creatives.
• Development of an ultra-modern film and music production complex in Mombasa.
• Fast-tracking the Mombasa County Creative Industry Bill, 2026, which seeks to establish the Mombasa County Creative Economy Management Board to oversee and coordinate the sector.

Stakeholders expressed optimism that once adopted, the report would provide a roadmap for strengthening Mombasa’s creative economy, creating jobs for young people and positioning the county as a regional centre for arts, culture and innovation.

The Sisi Ni Dola Super Cup continued to gather momentum on Wednesday with two entertaining fixtures producing a win and a draw as teams battled for crucial points in the grassroots football tournament. (theblue-news.org⁠)

Sango Sportiff edged Legacy FC 1-0 in a tightly contested encounter courtesy of a 30th-minute strike by John Galana, a goal that ultimately proved to be the difference between the two sides.

The match remained competitive throughout, with Sango’s Said Baya receiving a caution in the 70th minute, while Legacy FC had Modestin Odhiambo booked in the 53rd minute before Dickson Juma was cautioned deep into stoppage time. Benson Kenyanjui of Sango Sportiff was named the Most Valuable Player after an impressive performance. Match officials reported that the game was fairly played, with no incidents recorded before, during or after the final whistle.

In the day’s second fixture, Juve FC and Likoni United settled for a 1-1 draw after a dramatic finish.

Enoch Lemayian put Juve ahead in the 71st minute after being set up by Gregory Agesa, but Likoni United fought back with Sammy Omile equalising in the 87th minute from an assist by James Wekesa.

The match ended on a tense note after Likoni United defender Shafi Ayub was sent off in the 90th minute for serious foul play, while Juve’s Gregory Agesa received a yellow card in stoppage time for delaying the restart. Lemayian’s influential display earned him the Man of the Match award.

Attention now shifts to Thursday’s fixtures, where Mombasa Kingz FC will face Azam United, while Shanzu United take on Fetuwe as the battle for qualification intensifies in the Sisi Ni Dola Super Cup.

Belgian non-profit organization Close the Gap has officially soft-launched one of East Africa’s largest Digital Inclusion and Youth Innovation Hubs in Mombasa, with leaders describing the facility as a game-changer for youth empowerment, digital skills development, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

The launch, held on Belgium’s National Day, also marked the farewell of Belgium’s outgoing Ambassador to Kenya, Peter Maddens, who is concluding his five-year diplomatic tour in the country.

Speaking during the event, Ambassador Maddens said the hub represents Belgium’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s youthful population by creating opportunities through technology and innovation.

“We are here to soft launch the new Close the Gap Hub. This hub is of vital importance for various reasons. It creates opportunities for young people, and with 75 per cent of Kenya’s population being young people, this centre is very vital. It is a flagship project for Belgium,” said Maddens.

The ambassador encouraged young people to remain hopeful and pursue their ambitions despite challenges.

“To the Kenyan youth, don’t give up on your dreams,” he added.

Close the Gap Founder and Chief Executive Officer Olivier Vanden Eynde said the innovation hub has been established to nurture a new generation of entrepreneurs by equipping young people with practical digital skills and supporting business start-ups.

“We want our youth to be job creators and not job seekers. This hub will be a centre for training and offering opportunities to our youth, especially in business start-ups,” he said.

Vanden Eynde noted that the project reflects the strong and enduring partnership between Belgium and Kenya.

“This is also a testimony to the good relations between Belgium and Kenya. The launch coincides with Belgium’s Independence Day, making it even more significant. It is also an opportunity to bid farewell to Ambassador Peter Maddens, who has been instrumental in supporting programmes that have benefited many young people during his five years in Kenya.”

Former Kenyan Ambassador to Belgium, Prof. Bitange Ndemo, emphasized the growing importance of digital technology in transforming livelihoods, particularly in rural communities.

“As ICT and digital technologies become increasingly important, especially in rural areas, facilities like this will help farmers understand how they can use technology to improve their products and livelihoods,” said Ndemo.

He said digital innovation hubs provide young people with access to learning resources that enhance education and career development.

“These hubs are instrumental in helping young people access digital learning materials that support both their education and careers. As a country, we need to invest more seriously in facilities that promote personalised learning powered by artificial intelligence.”

Ndemo further urged county governments and development partners to collaborate in expanding similar centres across the country.

“Counties should partner with different stakeholders to establish more facilities like this. We have many talented young people creating content on platforms such as TikTok. If we equip them with the necessary skills to monetize that content, we will not only empower them but also create sustainable livelihoods.”

The Close the Gap Digital Innovation Hub is expected to serve as a centre for digital inclusion, entrepreneurship, innovation, and skills development, providing thousands of young people with access to technology, mentorship, and opportunities to thrive in the digital economy.