AGP Executive Report

Safari Rally: Kenya will host the WRC’s third round in Naivasha from March 18 to 21, 2027, keeping the iconic event on the expanded 15-round calendar. Ebola Response: After the country’s first imported Bundibugyo case ended in the patient’s death, authorities are tracing 57 contacts and have quarantined 10; China has pledged Sh260 million for Ebola preparedness and drought relief. Economy: The Central Bank has raised its 2026 growth forecast to 5 per cent, citing stronger industry and services, while warning that global tensions and El Niño remain risks. Politics: Githunguri MP Gathoni Wamuchomba says she is leaving UDA, citing tribal attacks and saying she will seek re-election on another ticket. Public Land: The EACC has recovered a Sh51 million Kenya Civil Aviation Authority property in Mombasa after a long-running dispute.

Ebola Response: Kenya is tracing 57 contacts after a man who travelled from the DRC through Uganda died in Nairobi with Bundibugyo Ebola. Ten people are in quarantine, as questions grow over how he passed through screening undetected. Politics: Uhuru Kenyatta has resigned as Azimio chair, saying it is time for a new generation to lead; Kalonzo Musyoka says the coalition’s leadership remains intact. Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro was suspended from parliamentary business for five sitting days after refusing to apologise over claims about Kenya Pipeline shares. Economy: The World Bank raised Kenya’s 2026 growth forecast to 4.6 per cent, while the Central Bank held its benchmark rate for a fourth straight meeting. Agriculture: Deputy President Kithure Kindiki urged farmers to adopt precision tools, including drones, to cut waste and raise yields. Health: SHA has granted eligible healthcare providers a one-month waiver for five onboarding documents, through November 4.

Ebola Response: Kenya is stepping up surveillance after its first confirmed Bundibugyo Ebola case ended in the patient’s death in Nairobi. Authorities are tracing contacts and have designated 241 beds across five hospitals; WHO and Africa CDC are supporting the response as concerns grow over screening gaps. Education: Education CS Julius Ogamba says 20,000 junior-school intern teachers will get permanent, pensionable jobs from January 2027, backed by KSh4.9 billion in Treasury funding. Football: A pitch invasion and attack on referee John Sulwe forced the Kariobangi Sharks–Mombasa United promotion playoff to be abandoned, deepening uncertainty over the new league season. Politics: Deputy President Kithure Kindiki plans to bring Mt Kenya leaders together to curb political violence ahead of the 2027 election. Road Safety: Seventeen people, mostly Catholic pilgrims, were killed in a crash on the Nairobi–Mombasa highway near Salama. Business: Kenyan investors can buy into Dangote Refinery’s IPO through the NSE, but the minimum investment is KSh107,000.

Ebola Alert: Kenya confirmed its first imported Ebola case and first death after a man who had lived in the DRC for seven years arrived in Nairobi via Uganda, prompting urgent contact tracing of 28 people and monitoring of 23 flight passengers; WHO says Kenya is strengthening coordination and surveillance, while doctors warn screening and contact-tracing lapses could worsen spread. Public Health & Borders: Reports from Busia and JKIA point to weak visible checks despite assurances, as authorities move to isolate contacts and follow safe burial protocols. Insurance Push: Jubilee Group and FSD Africa will pilot affordable insurance products with seven insurtech firms starting in Kenya in November 2026, targeting SMEs, informal workers, farmers and low-income households. Energy & Industry: Dangote says its $16bn Lamu refinery will be delivered in 40 months and offers 30% equity to East African countries, while Kenyan investors face a high minimum for the Dangote IPO via GDRs. Finance & Inclusion: Sasra data shows women’s share of CEO roles in regulated Saccos rose to 36.9% in 2025.

Ebola Alert: Kenya confirmed its first-ever Ebola death after a Kenyan man who had been living in the DRC died in a Nairobi hospital; Health CS Aden Duale said 28 contacts were identified and authorities are tracing passengers and crew from the Kampala–Nairobi route as the Bundibugyo strain has no approved vaccine or specific treatment. Road Safety & Fire: Residents battled an ethanol tanker fire after it overturned along the Nakuru–Eldoret highway, with calls for faster rescue response points along the corridor. Capital Markets: The Capital Markets Authority approved local access to Dangote Petroleum Refinery shares via GDRs, allowing eligible Kenyan investors to participate in the IPO through the Nairobi bourse. Business & Connectivity: Starlink’s new customer sign-ups remain frozen in multiple counties due to capacity limits, despite growing subscriptions. Innovation & Youth: Absa-backed GirlCode Kenya Hackathon crowned four young women for an AI-powered public transport fare platform. Sports: Kenya’s Lionesses gear up to defend the Safari Sevens trophy at Nyayo Stadium, while Agnes Ngetich and Sebastian Sawe earned World Athlete of the Year nominations.

State House Security: A tuk-tuk driver was arrested after trying to force entry into State House at Gate D, the latest in similar incidents around President William Ruto’s residence. Politics Ahead of 2027: ODM leader Oburu Oginga and Raila Odinga’s legacy remain a live wire as party leaders position for the next phase; meanwhile, Edwin Sifuna’s Equitable Party adds another political vehicle. Road Safety: A deadly Salama crash killed 17 Catholic pilgrims heading to Subukia, with families mourning victims and authorities probing the incident. Education: KNEC is set to administer exams for a record 3.6 million candidates with tougher rules to curb cheating. Economy & Finance: Banks expect borrowing costs to ease as CBK holds rates; Family Bank secured AfDB trade finance to boost lending for importers/exporters. Energy & Business: CMA cleared Kenyan investors to access Dangote Refinery IPO via GDRs, while Kenya also prepares for El Niño rains. Sports Integrity: Ruto says Kenya will tighten its anti-doping framework ahead of WADA-aligned rules taking effect in January 2027.

Education & Labour: Education CS Julius Ogamba urged university lecturers to resume duty, saying all arrears under 2017–2021 and 2021–2025 CBAs have been fully paid, while warning unions to respect court orders. Teachers’ Welfare: President William Ruto directed TSC to expand teacher promotions from 34,016 to 50,000 and said 20% of affordable homes will be reserved for teachers, with salary check-off payments planned. Health & Safety: Kenya activated its national response plan ahead of El Niño, putting search-and-rescue teams, evacuation shelters and supplies on standby as heavy rains loom. Economy & Housing: Ruto’s affordable housing push also faces wider affordability pressure globally, with Habitat for Humanity reporting many households cut food, savings and even medical care to afford homes. Energy & Business: Dangote broke ground on a $16bn Lamu refinery as legal challenges and environmental concerns remain in the spotlight. Environment & Livelihoods: Conflict over cage fish farming in Lake Victoria has erupted in Homa Bay, with residents and hoteliers alleging pollution and blocked access to fishing sites. Sports: Kenya’s Junior Starlets head to Spain for a final U17 World Cup camp before Morocco. Justice Watch: EACC listed key corruption and asset recovery cases scheduled for hearing this week (Oct 5–9).

Mobile Money Rules: CBK is set to require M-Pesa and Airtel Money operators to report mobile cash theft, hacking and other cyber incidents to the regulator, with penalties for non-compliance. IMF Timing: Kenya is unlikely to sign a new IMF deal before the August 2027 elections, raising pressure on Treasury’s plans to plug the budget gap. Sacco Fallout: SASRA says Saccos face dividend cuts after being asked to provision about Sh7.7bn over Kuscco losses. Politics 2027: Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna was unveiled as leader and presidential candidate of the Equitable Party (TEP), with allies vowing to keep contesting even if doors close. El Niño Update: Kenya Met says October–December rains have started in parts of 24 counties, with more areas expected next week or the following week. Road Safety: At least 17 people, mostly Catholic pilgrims, were killed in a multi-vehicle crash on the Nairobi–Mombasa highway near Salama; investigations are underway. Security: DCI arrested a suspect in the stabbing death of a US national in Garissa, and a dormitory fire at Tengecha Boys High School in Kericho was contained with no reported injuries.

Dangote Refinery Politics: Health CS Aden Duale says the Kenyatta family owns shares in the Nairobi Expressway and warns he’ll reveal more amid criticism of President William Ruto and the Dangote Lamu refinery deal. AI for Schools: UNESCO and Codemao are pushing AI and coding training across Africa using a train-the-trainer model, with hundreds of teachers already trained. Road Safety Shock: NTSA says 17 Catholic pilgrims were killed in a multi-vehicle crash on the Nairobi–Mombasa highway at Salama, with investigations underway. Nairobi Crime Crackdown: DCI tightened security ahead of 2027 polls, targeting phone snatching, vehicle theft and “kazi majuu” scams. Fraud Arrests: Police arrested two suspects for impersonating a senior government official and conning members of the public. Local Incidents: Murang’a theft suspects were linked to 32 recovered phones in Nairobi CBD, while Nairobi youths protested alleged bullying of a Riara University student in Buruburu. Regional Diplomacy: South Sudan President Salva Kiir visited Kenya for talks with Ruto, including cooperation around the Lamu refinery.

Road Safety Tragedy: Seventeen Catholic pilgrims died in a multi-vehicle crash at Salama on the Nairobi–Mombasa highway after a truck driver failed to overtake, with the Catholic Archdiocese of Mombasa naming the victims and NTSA urging motorists to avoid dangerous overtaking and follow lane discipline. Politics & Unity: Former President Uhuru Kenyatta told Mt Kenya leaders not to “repeat mistakes” ahead of 2027, urging national unity as political tensions with the opposition and President William Ruto’s camp continue to rise. Health System Push: Medical Services PS Dr Ouma Oluga called for tighter links between universities and health reforms, urging wider registration and continued premium contributions to the Social Health Authority. Agriculture & Food: Stakeholders at a science summit urged Kenya’s coffee sector to lean on soil testing and farmer-centred science to reverse declining production and climate stress. Public Health Concerns: Murang’a officials reported a rise in teenage pregnancies, including cases among girls aged 10–14, calling for urgent action to protect girls’ education and health. Energy & Transport Policy: Kenya’s e-mobility tariff debate highlights calls for special electricity pricing to support fleet operators and accelerate EV adoption.

Road Safety & Tragedy: NTSA and police are investigating a deadly multi-vehicle crash at Mlima Kiu, Salama on the Nairobi–Mombasa highway that killed 17 Catholic pilgrims and injured others, after a truck allegedly failed lane discipline while overtaking; NTSA warns motorists against dangerous overtaking as the stretch is flagged a blackspot. Public Accountability & Rights: Kenya’s ODPC, CAJ and the Ombudsman are deepening cooperation on access to information, transparency and data privacy, stressing that the right to know and the right to privacy must work together. Health & Law: Civil society groups say uncertainty around Kenya’s abortion laws is leaving patients and doctors in limbo, calling for clearer guidance to avoid delays and fear. Diplomacy & Trade: Kenya and Finland are advancing technology and investment cooperation in Nairobi, including AI and emerging tech links. Energy & Agriculture: President Ruto says the Galana–Kulalu irrigation scheme will expand sugarcane production with a major dam to be funded through the National Infrastructure Fund. Crime & Enforcement: Detectives in Githunguri, Kiambu seized suspected counterfeit excise stamps and illicit cigarettes in an intelligence-led operation, though the main suspect escaped. Digital Services: Kenya Power warns customers not to interact with its hacked X customer-care account, urging use of official channels like *977# and the myPower app.

Dangote Refinery Legal Push: A consumer rights group has filed a petition challenging Kenya’s approval process and proposed state stake in the $16bn Dangote Lamu refinery, seeking details on contracting, procurement, appraisal, due diligence and any taxpayer liabilities. Coast Land & Politics: President Ruto warned Coast residents against “matapeli” and “extortionists” soliciting money ahead of 2027, while also saying government will not pay billions to absentee landlords who rejected compensation for land occupied by communities. Media Freedom Under Pressure: Rights defenders rallied at Standard Group headquarters after pro-government supporters stormed the offices, raising fresh concerns about threats to the free press as the 2027 campaign heats up. University Strike Hits Learning: Lecturers and staff at public universities began a nationwide strike, leaving over 700,000 students uncertain and disrupting teaching and learning. Tax Enforcement at JKIA: KRA intercepted 40 smartphones worth about Sh8.2m concealed in luggage from Dubai, after passenger travel history raised suspicion. Public Health Watch: WHO says non-communicable diseases drive 74% of global deaths, while Kenya’s latest data still shows a heavy burden from communicable and maternal causes alongside NCDs. Youth Service Expansion: National Youth Service plans to scale recruitment to 100,000 by 2028, with Sh6.4bn earmarked for expanded training infrastructure.

AFCON 2027 Contingency: CAF has reportedly contacted Morocco, Algeria and South Africa over a backup plan if Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania miss key preparations for the joint-hosted tournament. Media Freedom: Human rights groups condemned pro-government protesters who attacked Standard Media Group, arguing it threatens Kenya’s constitutional space for a free press. El Niño Readiness: Nairobi Governor Sakaja ordered faster road and drainage works across flood-prone areas, giving contractors a 14-day push to finish hotspots before rains intensify. Health & Inclusion: Deaf advocates in Murang’a called for better sign language skills in schools and public services to reduce stigma and improve access. Sports & Community: Eldoret is getting a facelift ahead of Mashujaa Day with major stadium works and security rehearsals underway. Road Safety: Motorists demanded a legally binding deal to guarantee lower fuel prices tied to the new Dangote refinery in Lamu. Education Disruption: Lecturers at public universities began a strike over delays in implementing collective bargaining agreements and funding.

Oil & Energy: President William Ruto says Kenya will start extracting Turkana crude before December and begin transporting it to the planned Lamu refinery, with a pipeline link agreed with Dangote; he added Kenya will still blend Turkana oil with supplies from other countries to meet refinery needs. Anti-Drugs Push: Ruto also announced plans to boost the DCI Anti-Narcotics Unit with more officers, specialised training and additional vehicles to shut down routes used to smuggle heroin, cocaine and other drugs. Court & Crime: A suspected KSh96m cyber fraudster was remanded after arrest in Kericho for missing court appearances, with warrants issued after three missed hearings. Politics & Community Ties: Health CS Aden Duale moved to calm tensions with the Kikuyu community, saying his political remarks were not hostility toward the community. Capital Markets: The CMA delayed approval of a GDR instrument meant to let Kenyans buy Dangote shares via the NSE, citing pending issues. Education Labour: University staff unions rejected a pay offer and called a nationwide strike from Friday. Environment & Wildlife: Scientists using GPS trackers report four raptor species at Kenya’s Kipeto wind farm show turbine-avoidance behaviour, though collision risk may still vary by species.

Lamu Refinery Push: Kenya officially broke ground on Dangote’s $16bn, 700,000-bpd Lamu mega-refinery, with President Ruto saying it will boost energy security and industrial jobs—though construction faces a court halt tied to a land dispute. Regional Trade & Shipping: Hyundai Merchant Marine will launch a weekly Mombasa–India service next month, strengthening the port’s role as a gateway for East Africa. Energy Supplies: Rwanda received its first petroleum shipment via Kenya’s Port of Mombasa under a new government-to-government framework, aimed at scaling northern corridor fuel flows. Digital Kenya: Government leaders discussed Kenya’s Digital Public Infrastructure roadmap, focusing on access, trust and interoperability for a more connected digital state. Finance & AI Governance: A CBK draft guidance on AI in banking is highlighted as institutions race ahead without clear strategies. Agribusiness Ideas: Farmers are being urged to earn from snails—selling meat, shells and slime—beyond traditional crop use. Aviation Incident: Kenyan flight attendants helped tend an injured Flydubai pilot after a cockpit attack during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Business & Tech: KawiSafi Ventures invested $2m in Orb Energy to expand East Africa rooftop solar for businesses. Public Safety/Crime: Nairobi CBD pickpockets were caught on camera trying to unlock a stolen phone. International Tragedy: Zimbabwe tycoon Wicknell Chivayo and his wife were confirmed dead after a helicopter crash; President Ruto mourned him as a “dear friend.”

Dangote Refinery in Lamu: Kenya officially broke ground on the $16bn, 700,000-bpd Dangote East Africa refinery, with President William Ruto saying it will anchor energy and industrial growth and co-generate up to 1,000MW of power. Court and land tensions: A Malindi court order keeps “status quo” on disputed land while the case continues, even as the ceremony went ahead—locals and environmentalists remain concerned. Power for industry: Dangote says the project will have about 500MW excess power after refinery needs, with plans to sell 500MW to the Kenyan government to support industrial investors in Lamu. Regional fuel logistics: Rwanda received its first 40,000 tonnes of refined fuel via Mombasa under a new Kenya-Rwanda corridor deal. El Niño preparedness: Nairobi Governor Sakaja and residents’ groups (KARA) will push flood readiness to households, using mapped 227 hotspots. Cost of living: Kenya’s inflation rose to 6.8% in September, driven by food, transport and housing. Sports: South Africa’s Relebohile Mofokeng scored twice as Bafana beat Eritrea 5-0 in AFCON qualifiers; Kenya’s Harambe Stars face Guinea in Conakry after a shaky start.