By Cathy Ibal, Senior Vice President, CNN International Commercial

The far-reaching and unrelenting nature of the news cycle in 2026 so far  from conflicts and geopolitics, to major market movements, technology breakthroughs and AI developments  has created a major spike in the appetite amongst audiences to understand what’s happening in the world and what it means for them.

People are consuming more news, sharing it with friends and followers, and, in an age of increasing AI-generated content and misinformation, choosing to turn to credible, established sources for verified information. Against this backdrop, the news industry itself is creating headlines as the sector undergoes significant change in all areas of production, formats and distribution.   

Meeting the audience

Driving the transformation taking place in the news industry is a commitment to meet the audience where they are. For news organisations, this means being present across all major platforms where people consume news - TV, digital, mobile, social media, audio, newsletters, connected televisions and of course streaming, which CNN launched in the US last year. 

Subsequently, a multi-platform approach to engage broader and more diverse audiences, connecting with people in different ways is also a path to grow greater scale through a powerful combination of platforms. In CNN’s case this means having our TV channels in 379 million households and hotel rooms, a monthly digital audience of 122 million, and over 295 million social media followers.

These numbers are spiking during the current news cycle  in line with findings from a recent survey conducted by research company Differentology of international news consumers in 20 markets which found that 6 out of 10 people are concerned about the credibility of information sources and are looking for platforms that can verify facts, offer in-depth coverage, and provide clear context for understanding global issues

Expanding Platforms and Formats

We continue to invest in new platforms and distribution strategies, including in Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST), one of the fastest growing platforms in terms of audience consumption and investment from brands. Our FAST channel CNN Headlines is already widely available globally and can be accessed in most of Africa on the homepage of CNN.com.

In a completely different field, we are engaging with audiences through live events with our franchise, Global Perspectives. The inaugural event that took place in November 2025 was about big ideas, bold leadership and dynamic economies shaping the African continent. I had the pleasure of being one of 300 attendees from across the globe in the room for sessions moderated by leading CNN journalists with high calibre speakers such as World Trade Organization Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, celebrated author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, award-winning actress and activist Uzo Aduba, and Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo Judith Suminwa Tuluka.

Leveraging this important moment for live journalism about Africa, we attracted brands such as Afreximbank and MTN as sponsors for both the event itself and advertising alignment with content across CNN platforms.

Global Perspectives: On Africa was followed by a smaller edition at the World Economic Forum in partnership with Uber, and we have more events planned for later in 2026 and beyond. We have developed Global Perspectives as a forum for dignitaries, political and business leaders, and visionaries from around the world to discuss pressing issues around global and regional geopolitics, technology, media and culture. In an ever-increasingly digital world, events such as Global Perspectives present an important moment for human connection centred around compelling live journalism.

News on social platforms

Whilst our primary focus is engaging with audiences on our owned and operated platforms, we are also serving news consumers on social media platforms. Being present on these platforms enables news organisations to engage news consumers who might not come to us directly and also serves a public purpose in providing these audiences with verified facts and information.

This is reflected in the research from Differentology, which found that 89% of respondents from Africa said that CNN is a trusted source on social media and 86% believe that CNN offers engaging short-form video content on social. Overall, the research all found that those news consumers who access user-generated news content say UGC from global news organisation is over 2 times more credible than content from non-news creators.

Adopting new technology with trust at the core

Powering the innovation and platform expansion in media is the greater use of advanced technology, in particular AI. However, when it comes to news organisations, we recognise that we must adopt new technology in a particularly careful and transparent way so that we can be certain of accuracy.

At CNN, any use of AI whether for commercial, editorial or product development must adhere to our standards and practices and strict AI guidelines to ensure our audiences and brand partners can always trust our work in this area.

This transparent approach is vital because trust is so important to the way that news organisations operate and are perceived.

The saying goes that trust is hard won and easily lost.  

Within these guidelines we are investing in new roles to drive AI innovation in the company, AI-powered product development, increased work with some platform partners and usage in some areas of editorial such as AI-driven fact-checking and misinformation detection tools.

In my area of CNN International Commercial, we have used automation and machine learning in our commercial solutions for many years. Specifically, commercial operations within media companies can use AI to power audience targeting and personalisation tools, to automate time-consuming tasks in brand studios and to understand large data sets for audience insight and campaign evaluation.  

In an age where change in the media industry is moving almost as fast as the news cycle itself, it’s imperative for news organisations to be committed to continual innovation, exploring new formats and growing our presence on more platforms.

46 years ago, the entire concept of 24/7 cable news was borne out of innovation. It’s easy to argue that we’re at a similar moment of opportunity now where news organisations can undertake transformational steps to be essential to an even wider range of audiences in new, different ways.

Kenya Ports Authority Managing Director Captain William Ruto was visibly emotional on Tuesday during the requiem mass for his daughter, Mitchel Jelimo, who tragically died in a road accident in Taita Taveta last Friday.

The mass, held at a church in Nyali, was attended by several prominent leaders, including Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir and Member of Parliament Oscar Sudi, among others. Friends, family, and members of the community also gathered to pay their respects and support the grieving family.

The tragic incident on Friday claimed the life of Mitchel Jelimo, leaving the family in deep sorrow. Captain Ruto, who remained composed yet visibly shaken during the service, received condolences from attendees who shared in the family’s grief.

“The pain of losing a loved one is immeasurable. Our thoughts and prayers are with Captain Ruto and his family during this difficult time,” said Governor Nasir

Leaders present at the mass underscored the importance of road safety and expressed solidarity with the family, urging motorists to exercise caution to prevent similar tragedies.

The funeral arrangements are expected to continue later this week, with family and friends planning a private burial ceremony.

The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) has confirmed the death of the daughter of its Managing Director, Capt. William K. Ruto, following a tragic road accident that occurred yesterday evening.

In an official statement, the authority said, “We are deeply saddened to announce that our Chief Executive Officer… was involved in a tragic road accident while traveling with his family.”

The statement added, “Regrettably, his daughter did not survive the accident. We extend our thoughts and deepest condolences to Capt. Ruto and his family during this time of immense grief.”

KPA confirmed that Capt. Ruto and other family members survived and are currently receiving treatment. “Capt. Ruto and the rest of his family are in stable condition and under close medical supervision. We wish them a quick and full recovery,” the authority said.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing. “We are cooperating with the relevant authorities as they establish the circumstances surrounding the accident,” the statement noted.

The authority also appealed for privacy, stating, “We respectfully request for the family’s privacy during this difficult time.”

KPA further acknowledged support from leaders including Abdulswamad Shariff Nassir and Andrew Mwadime.

Football fans in Kisauni are gearing up for an exciting showdown as the Chuchu Memorial Cup 2026 kicks off at Kadongo Grounds in Mjambere. The 7-a-side football tournament, proudly sponsored by Mombasa Senator Mohammed Faki, is expected to bring together top grassroots talent from across the Kisauni sub county.

The tournament now in its 3rd edition will feature 16 competitive teams, each battling for glory in what promises to be a fast-paced and entertaining event.

 Designed to promote youth engagement, community unity, and sports development, the Chuchu Memorial Cup continues to grow as one of the most anticipated local football tournaments in Mombasa.

Speaking ahead of the event, Senator Mohammed Faki reaffirmed his commitment to supporting sports initiatives that empower young people. “Football has the power to unite communities and create opportunities. This tournament is not just about competition, but also about nurturing talent and honoring the legacy of Chuchu,” he said.

The 7-a-side format ensures quick matches, high energy, and plenty of goals, making it a fan-friendly spectacle. Local teams have already begun preparations, with players eager to showcase their skills in front of passionate supporters.

Organizers have confirmed that Kadongo Grounds in Mjambere will serve as the official venue, with matches scheduled to run throughout. Spectators can expect a festive atmosphere filled with football action, community spirit, and entertainment.

The Chuchu Memorial Cup also highlights the growing importance of grassroots football in Kenya, providing a platform for emerging players to gain exposure and potentially attract scouts.

With strong sponsorship backing and increasing local interest, the 2026 edition is set to be bigger and better than ever.

Mombasa residents have been granted a temporary reprieve after Governor Abdulswamad Nassir announced a 45-day waiver on all penalties and fines related to land rent payments.

In a move aimed at cushioning residents from the current economic hardship, the county government said the waiver will allow defaulters to clear their outstanding land rent without incurring additional charges.

Governor Nassir said the decision was informed by the need to balance enforcement of the law with the prevailing financial challenges facing residents.

“We want to advise all residents of Mombasa that, in the spirit of the current economic situation and in ensuring compliance with constitutional and legal requirements, there will be a total waiver on all penalties and fines on land rent for the next 45 days,” he said.

He emphasized that the county has no intention of punishing residents through surcharges on late payments, urging them instead to take advantage of the waiver period to regularize their accounts.

The governor noted that many property owners have defaulted on land rent payments, with the number of defaulters running into thousands and the total arrears exceeding Sh1 billion.

While the law allows counties to take enforcement measures including penalties and even auctioning of properties for persistent defaulters Nassir said his administration prefers a more accommodative approach.

“The law is very clear on what should happen when one defaults, including auctioning of properties, but we do not want to go that direction,” he said.

He warned, however, that once the 45-day window lapses, penalties will automatically be reinstated and enforcement measures could follow.

The waiver is part of broader efforts by the Mombasa County Government to enhance revenue collection while maintaining a people-centered approach to governance. Similar waivers in the past have been used to encourage compliance and boost revenue without overburdening residents.

Residents have now been urged to seize the opportunity to clear their dues within the grace period and avoid future penalties.

Efforts to strengthen open research systems in Africa have received a major boost, with the formal adoption of the EAC Declaration on Artificial Intelligence.

In a landmark move, the declaration integrates key proposals from a high-level side event at the 4th EAC Regional Science, Technology and Innovation conference.

This marks a significant step in the continent’s innovation agenda, calling for the reform of AI research ecosystems through open science, interdisciplinary collaboration and the integration of indigenous knowledge.

The outcome builds on a strategic session co-convened by African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) and the Science for Africa Foundation (SFA Foundation), which brought together policymakers, researchers, and funders to advance an African-led Vision for Open Research, aligned with Agenda 2063 and the Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA 2034).

“Open research must be designed with Africa’s realities in mind,” said Mrs. Mahlet Teshome Kebede, Principal Policy Officer for Science and Technology at the African Union Commission. “Without this, we risk building systems that are open but not necessarily useful for our development priorities.”

While the broader conference spotlighted artificial intelligence as a driver of economic transformation, discussions at the side event underscored that AI ambitions will depend on stronger research systems - particularly those that enable data sharing, collaboration, and equitable access to knowledge.

Despite growing investments, translating research into deployable solutions remains a challenge due to persistent gaps in coordination, infrastructure, and financing. Overcoming these barriers requires collective ownership and a coordinated strategy focused on policy harmonization, sustainable financing, and the development of an interoperable digital infrastructure.

“Open research goes beyond access. It is about building an ecosystem where knowledge is created, shared, and applied to solve African challenges,” said Prof. Brando Okolo, Head of Science, Technology and Innovation at AUDA-NEPAD. “We must ensure that this ecosystem includes the private sector and informal systems, which are critical to innovation on the continent.”

A central focus of the session was the presentation of a draft Vision for Open Research in Africa, developed through a consultative process led by AUDA-NEPAD, SFA Foundation and partners. The vision outlines a future where, by 2034, Africa will have an African-led, globally influential open research ecosystem in which knowledge is openly created, accessible, and reusable to drive equitable development.

“This vision is about moving from fragmented efforts to a shared continental direction,” said Allen Mukhwana, Head of Programmes, Strengthening Science Ecosystems, SFA Foundation “It provides a foundation for aligning policy, infrastructure, and investment toward a system that works for Africa.”

The convening resulted in three key outcomes: a shared continental vision for open research, identified entry points for implementation, and a growing coalition of stakeholders committed to co-creating and operationalising this agenda.

“Our role is to support this transition by enabling dialogue, strengthening coordination, and helping translate ideas into actionable pathways,” said Dr. Moses Alobo, Head of Programmes, SFA Foundation. “Open research is not an end in itself - it is a means to accelerate science-to-impact across the continent.”

The inclusion of open research priorities in the EAC AI Declaration signals growing recognition that open, inclusive, and well-governed research systems are foundational to Africa’s digital and innovation ambitions.

Traffic officers in Mombasa have undergone a specialized training exercise on the use of speed enforcement cameras and speed guns, in a renewed push to curb speeding and reduce road crashes along the coastal city’s busy roads.

The training, supported by the Bloomberg Initiative for Road Safety and the Global Road Safety Partnership (GRSP), is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen enforcement and build capacity within local police units. Mombasa was selected as a key training location, with similar workshops conducted three to four times each year.

Speaking during the exercise, Marco Schaler from the Global Road Safety Partnership emphasized the importance of consistent enforcement.

“Speeding remains one of the main killers on our roads. That is why exercises like this are critical in building the capacity of officers to effectively use speed guns and other enforcement tools,” he said.

Authorities noted that many drivers tend to slow down only when they spot traffic officers, highlighting the need for sustained and technology-driven enforcement.

Saidi Saidi, Enforcement Coordinator at the Bloomberg Initiative for Road Safety, said the program is focused on long-term impact.

“The main purpose of this activity is to reduce road deaths and severe injuries, and to help achieve Vision Zero by 2030. We are committed to ensuring safer roads through continuous training, enforcement, and partnerships,” he said.

The initiative, which began in 2021, is being implemented in collaboration with the Global Road Safety Partnership, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), the Kenya Police, and county inspectorate teams.

As part of the program, officers have received speed guns, road cones, and laptops to support enforcement operations. Plans are also underway to supply alcoblow devices to enhance checks on drunk driving.

Beyond speed enforcement, the initiative includes a data collection component where officers record details of road crashes and submit reports to headquarters. The data helps identify high-risk areas, common causes of accidents, and the severity of injuries.

“These reports guide us in advising county governments on where enforcement is most needed,” Saidi added.

Officials say combining enforcement with data-driven strategies is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.

“If we all work together , police, government agencies, and the public, we will improve safety on our roads,” Schaler noted.

The intensified crackdown on speeding comes amid growing concern over road safety in Kenya, where speeding continues to contribute significantly to fatalities and serious injuries.

Authorities are optimistic that with enhanced training, modern equipment, and stronger collaboration, Mombasa will see a reduction in crashes and move closer to achieving safer roads for all.