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Safaricom Confirms Sh204bn Stake Sale, Rejects Vodafone Takeover Speculation

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Safaricom Confirms Sh204bn Stake Sale, Rejects Vodafone Takeover Speculation
Safaricom Confirms Sh204bn Stake Sale, Rejects Vodafone Takeover Speculation

In a public notice issued on Thursday, Safaricom confirmed it had received a formal Notice of Intention from Vodafone Kenya to acquire 6,009,814,200 ordinary shares at Sh34 each. The proposed transaction, valued at Sh204.3 billion (USD 1.6 billion), would be one of the largest share transfers in Kenya’s corporate history.

If approved, Vodafone Kenya’s shareholding in Safaricom would rise to 55 per cent. However, the telco stressed that “Vodafone Kenya does not intend to launch a takeover offer of Safaricom,” and will seek an exemption from mandatory takeover rules typically triggered when an investor crosses the effective control threshold.

Safaricom also disclosed that the government share purchase is linked to a separate internal restructuring within the Vodafone group. Vodacom Group Limited—already the 87.5 per cent majority shareholder in Vodafone Kenya—plans to acquire the remaining 12.5 per cent stake from Vodafone International Holdings B.V. in a Sh68.1 billion (USD 0.5 billion) transaction. This restructuring will give Vodacom full ownership of Vodafone Kenya and an additional 4.99 per cent indirect stake in Safaricom.

Safaricom Confirms Sh204bn Stake Sale, Rejects Vodafone Takeover Speculation
Safaricom Confirms Sh204bn Stake Sale, Rejects Vodafone Takeover Speculation

Once both transactions conclude, Safaricom’s ownership structure will shift to Vodafone Kenya/Vodacom Group at 55 per cent, the Government of Kenya at 20 per cent, and public investors at 25 per cent. The acquisitions are interdependent and expected to be completed concurrently.

As part of the agreement, Vodafone Kenya will make an upfront payment of Sh40.2 billion to the government, covering future dividends expected from the state’s remaining 20 per cent shareholding—a move analysts say provides the Treasury with immediate cash flow while securing predictable returns for Vodafone Kenya.

Safaricom emphasised that the multi-layered deal is still subject to approvals from the Cabinet, National Assembly, CMA, CAK, CBK, COMESA, and the East African Community Competition Authority. Investors were urged to trade cautiously until all regulatory steps are completed.

Further disclosures will be issued through Safaricom’s website and official regulatory filings.

Ruto Secures Sh208bn Health Investment in Landmark Deal With the US

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Kibet Tobias
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Ruto Secures Sh208bn Health Investment in Landmark Deal With the US
Ruto Secures Sh208bn Health Investment in Landmark Deal With the US

President William Ruto on Thursday witnessed the signing of a landmark agreement with the United States that will inject $1.6 billion (Sh208 billion) into Kenya’s health sector over the next five years.

The deal makes Kenya the first African nation to enter a government-to-government (G2G) health funding partnership with the US. The funding will directly strengthen key state institutions including the Social Health Authority, KEMSA, IFMIS, the Ministry of Health, the Directorate of Health Accounts, and the National Public Health Institute.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage model, calling it “a model for emulation across the continent.” The agreement builds on a 25-year partnership during which the US has invested more than $70 billion in Kenya’s health programs.

President Ruto thanked the US for its support, saying the investment will boost efforts to modernise hospitals, ensure reliable supply of medical commodities, and expand health insurance coverage. He assured that the funds will be used “efficiently, effectively, and accountably.”

Ruto Secures Sh208bn Health Investment in Landmark Deal With the US
Ruto Secures Sh208bn Health Investment in Landmark Deal With the US

The new G2G model is expected to reduce dependency on donor-run programs, enhance accountability, and increase Kenya’s ownership of its health systems. It includes plans for the US to transition procurement to KEMSA by 2026 and support the absorption of over 13,800 health workers by 2028.

Kenya will also progressively increase its own co-financing of the health sector, aiming to fully take over funding for key health commodities and personnel by 2031.

The framework further introduces a data-sharing agreement that recognises health data as a national asset and requires strict compliance with Kenyan data-protection laws.

The partnership is expected to strengthen health security, digital systems, human resources, and supply chains—while positioning Kenya as a regional health hub aligned with Vision 2030 and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda.

MCK Condemns Gachagua’s Verbal Attack on Journalist Stephen Letoo

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Kibet Tobias
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MCK Condemns Gachagua’s Verbal Attack on Journalist Stephen Letoo
MCK Condemns Gachagua’s Verbal Attack on Journalist Stephen Letoo

The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has issued a strong condemnation of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua following remarks he made on December 3, 2025, targeting Citizen TV journalist Stephen Letoo.

In the comments, Gachagua reportedly labelled Letoo “the worst journalist,” accused him of bias, and demanded that Royal Media Services dismiss him.

In a statement released on Thursday, MCK described Gachagua’s remarks as “reckless and dangerous,” warning that such public attacks by senior political figures place journalists’ safety at risk and undermine media freedom.

The council emphasized that singling out a journalist by name—especially in the current climate of political tension—amounts to incitement and exposes media professionals to potential harm.

“With insecurity often escalating at political rallies, church gatherings, and public events, targeting a journalist publicly constitutes incitement and places him in grave personal danger,” MCK noted.

CHECK ALSO – KNH announces 23 job vacancies for Kenyans, see how to apply

The council underscored the crucial role of the media as Kenya moves closer to the 2027 General Election, arguing that journalists must be free to scrutinize political leaders and report without fear or favour. Intimidation of journalists, MCK said, is incompatible with democratic principles.

The statement reminded political actors, including Gachagua, that media freedom and journalists’ safety are guaranteed under Article 34 of the Constitution and are essential to Kenya’s democratic framework. MCK called on leaders—current and former—to refrain from threatening or inciting harm against members of the press.

Additionally, the council urged law-enforcement agencies to take action against statements that endanger journalists and to ensure adequate protection for media workers facing increasing risks while performing their duties.

“The media will not be silenced by intimidation. Those seeking public office must accept scrutiny rather than attempt to suppress it,” the council declared.

Kenyan Actor Bilal Wanjau Passes Away, Entertainment Industry in Mourning

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Kibet Tobias
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Kenyan Actor Bilal Wanjau Passes Away, Entertainment Industry in Mourning
Kenyan Actor Bilal Wanjau Passes Away, Entertainment Industry in Mourning

The Kenyan entertainment scene is in shock following the passing of beloved actor Bilal Wanjau. Known for his remarkable talent in both film and theatre, Wanjau succumbed to diabetes-related complications on Thursday, December 4, 2025, leaving fans and colleagues grieving.

Actress Sandra Dacha, who shared the news, expressed her deep sorrow. “It is with profound sorrow that I announce the untimely passing of my colleague Bilal Wanjau this early morning due to diabetes complications,” she said.

Paying tribute to her late colleague, Sandra described Wanjau as one of the most talented actors in the Kenyan film industry. “Bilal was a GREAT TALENTED ACTOR! We’ve lost one of the BEST in the industry,” she stated.

She further confirmed that burial arrangements have been made, with Wanjau set to be laid to rest on Friday, December 5, 2025, at his rural home in Machakos. “Kindly keep the family in your prayers. May God rest his soul in eternal peace,” Sandra added.

The news has sparked an outpouring of grief across the Kenyan entertainment community, as fans and colleagues remember Wanjau for his remarkable talent and lasting contributions to the industry.

Rongo University Allows Chelang’at Mercy to Sit for Special Exams, But Only If She Clears All Fee Arrears

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Kibet Tobias
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Rongo University Allows Chelang’at Mercy to Sit for Special Exams, But Only If She Clears All Fee Arrears
Rongo University Allows Chelang’at Mercy to Sit for Special Exams, But Only If She Clears All Fee Arrears

Rongo University has granted embattled student Chelang’at Mercy a lifeline to complete her studies following last week’s graduation day drama but the window comes with one firm condition: she must clear her outstanding fee arrears amounting to KSh 79,750.

A team representing Mercy’s family visited the institution on Tuesday to verify her academic standing and seek clarity on what is required for her to finish her programme.

The university confirmed that Mercy, registration number SCJ/107/2021, is a legitimate student under the School of Information Science and Technology.

Rongo University Allows Chelang’at Mercy to Sit for Special Exams, But Only If She Clears All Fee Arrears
Rongo University Allows Chelang’at Mercy to Sit for Special Exams, But Only If She Clears All Fee Arrears

Academic status confirmed

According to the university’s records:

  • First Year: Sat for all exams

  • Second Year: Did not sit for any exams in both semesters

  • Third Year: Sat for all exams and passed

  • Fourth Year:

    • Semester 1 – Sat for exams

    • Semester 2 – Did not sit for exams

In total, Mercy missed exams equivalent to one and a half academic years, largely attributed to unresolved financial challenges.

Chelang’at Mercy fee statemet
Chelang’at Mercy fee statemet
Chelang’at Mercy fee statemet
Chelang’at Mercy fee statemet

The university’s decision

The Dean approved her request to sit for the pending courses through special exams. The university created a structured schedule that would allow her to complete the 24 outstanding units in phases:

  • January 26, 2025: 8 units

  • May 2025: 8 units

  • August 2025: 8 units

If she successfully completes these papers, Mercy will be eligible to graduate in December 2026.

READ ALSO – Mercy Chelang’at: Rongo University ‘Fake Graduate’ Breaks Silence, Apologises After Graduation Day Drama

But first — clear the fees

Despite the approval, the university emphasized that Mercy can only proceed if she meets one non-negotiable requirement:

She must pay all outstanding fees — KSh 79,750 — before sitting any special exams.

This fee clearance is mandatory before she can register for exams and be reinstated into the university’s academic progress system.

Family appeals for support

Following the meeting, Mercy’s family expressed gratitude for the university’s compassionate approach but also appealed to well-wishers for assistance.

“Mercy has struggled with emotional and financial pressure for a long time. Now that the university has given her a path forward, we kindly request anyone willing to help her clear the fee balance so she can return to class and complete her studies,” the family said.

For MPesa contribution – 0717849200, Nicholas Langat.

Mercy Chelang’at: Rongo University ‘Fake Graduate’ Breaks Silence, Apologises After Graduation Day Drama

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admin 2025
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A moment meant for celebration turned tense at Rongo University on Friday, November 28, after a young woman attempted to pose as a graduate during the institution’s 10th graduation ceremony.

The woman, identified as Mercy Chelang’at, a communication student, reportedly borrowed a graduation gown from a friend who had initially lent it to her acquaintance—only for Mercy to disappear with it on the eve of the ceremony.

When she switched off her phone, confusion and panic set in as the rightful owner desperately searched for the missing gown ahead of the big day.

The incident sparked wide discussion online, with many condemning the act while others expressed concern about the pressures students face in university.

After a day of speculation and backlash, Mercy has finally stepped forward with a heartfelt apology, shedding light on the circumstances that pushed her to make the ill-fated decision.

In her emotional statement, Mercy said:

“I’m Mercy Chelangat. The truth is, I have been struggling with fees and emotional stress for a long time.
I felt trapped, ashamed, and overwhelmed. Instead of asking for help, I let desperation mislead me. I am deeply sorry.
I am not a bad person, just a young woman who broke under pressure.
I take full responsibility, and I am ready to make things right.
I kindly ask for your understanding, prayers, and support as I try to rebuild and correct this situation.
Thank you to everyone who has shown kindness during this difficult moment.”

Her acknowledgment has drawn mixed reactions, with some urging compassion while others insisting on accountability. Many students and alumni have since called for the university to strengthen support systems for learners facing financial and emotional distress.

As the story continues to circulate, Mercy’s apology serves as a reminder of the silent struggles many students endure behind closed doors—sometimes leading to desperate decisions with far-reaching consequences.

Rongo University has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident.

Mercy Chelang’at: Rongo University ‘Fake Graduate’ Breaks Silence, Apologises After Graduation Day Drama
Mercy Chelang’at: Rongo University ‘Fake Graduate’ Breaks Silence, Apologises After Graduation Day Drama
Chelang’at also revealed that she currently has a fee balance of KSh79,000 and is appealing to well-wishers for support so she can clear the arrears, resume her studies, and eventually complete her graduation.
Her MPesa number is – 0702 005 439

KNH announces 23 job vacancies for Kenyans, see how to apply

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admin 2025
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Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has announced a new recruitment drive, inviting qualified, experienced and highly motivated professionals to apply for a range of vacant positions.

In a notice released on Tuesday, the hospital said it is seeking “dynamic, highly motivated, innovative and experienced individuals” to strengthen specialised healthcare delivery in line with its mission.

The advertised vacancies include Chief Medical Specialist roles in Pediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynecology, and Pathology. Other medical specialist positions are available in Orthopedic Surgery (Hand), Gastroenterology/Hepatology, Plastic Surgery, Radiology, and Cardiothoracic Surgery.

Additional openings include Assistant Cardiac Technologist, Senior Principal Clinical Psychologist, Senior Principal Nutrition & Dietetics Officer, Senior Principal Health Information Officer (three positions), Senior Principal Nursing Officer, Assistant Clerk of Works, Therapy Radiographer, Occupational Therapist (five positions), and Chief Manager, Monitoring & Evaluation.

Interested applicants must download and complete the official application form available on the KNH website.

“All interested candidates who meet the minimum requirements are requested to download and fill the application form available at www.knh.or.ke,” the hospital stated.

Applicants must attach a detailed and updated curriculum vitae, academic and professional certificates, and relevant testimonials. KNH also stressed that all documents must be serialised prior to submission. The deadline for applications is December 22, 2025.

Completed applications may be submitted by post to:

Chief Executive Officer
Kenyatta National Hospital
P.O. Box 20723-00202, Nairobi

Alternatively, applicants may deliver their documents to the Central Registry at the Administration Block.

KNH further clarified that it does not charge any fees at any stage of the application process and warned the public to be alert to potential fraud.

“Kenyatta National Hospital does not charge any fees for application,” the notice reads.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Successful applicants will be required to provide statutory documents as outlined under Chapter Six of the Constitution, including:

  • National Police Service Certificate of Good Conduct
  • EACC clearance
  • HELB compliance certificate
  • CRB clearance
  • KRA tax compliance certificate

The hospital also warned that canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification.

Reaffirming its commitment to fairness and inclusivity, KNH noted that it is an equal opportunity employer and encouraged qualified persons with disabilities to apply.

To combat misinformation, the hospital announced that all communication with shortlisted candidates will be conducted exclusively through telephone number 0780 433 080.

The recruitment initiative is part of KNH’s broader strategy to enhance service delivery and reinforce its position as a national leader in specialised and referral healthcare.

Drama at Rongo University as Woman Fakes Graduation With Stolen Graduation Gown

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admin 2025
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Drama at Rongo University as Woman Fakes Graduation With Stolen Graduation Gown

A moment of celebration turned chaotic at Rongo University on Friday, November 28, when a young woman attempted to pose as a graduate during the institution’s 10th graduation ceremony.

Chelang’at Mercy, a communication student, reportedly borrowed a graduation gown from a friend who had lent it to her acquaintance, only to disappear with it the night before the ceremony.

According to witnesses, she later switched off her phone, sparking confusion and panic for the rightful owner of the gown.

How the Drama Unfolded

The man whose gown had gone missing said he searched for Chelang’at throughout the night, only for her to claim she was still “doing her nails.” Minutes later, her phone went off.

“We searched for her until 3am. After sending people to check on her, she stopped responding to calls. In the morning, someone said she was at Bethany, but when we went there, she wasn’t,” he explained.

Running out of options, the group decided to confront her family during the graduation ceremony itself. Her relatives had gathered to celebrate her anticipated achievement—unaware that her name was not on the official graduation list.

Confrontation During the Ceremony

When confronted, Chelang’at reportedly denied the accusations. However, the man insisted that those present check the official list of graduates. Her name was nowhere to be found.

Visibly disappointed, the man expressed his frustration at the alleged deception.

“You are crazy. We were concentrating on the shoot, then you ran with my gown. You even said it was yours,” he said, while pointing at the gown.

In a dramatic scene, a woman believed to be her mother knelt down, pleading on behalf of her daughter. The gesture, however, did little to ease tensions.

Graduates Express Their Disapproval

The confrontation attracted the attention of other graduates, some of whom spoke angrily about the disrespect shown to their academic journey.

“We have suffered a lot in this school. Look at me—my village members stitched me an Italian suit after 10 years of waiting. Then somebody comes and jokes about our education,” one man lamented in the background.

The incident left many in shock, with some students calling for tighter gown distribution measures to prevent similar occurrences in future ceremonies.

A Ceremony Marred but Not Derailed

Despite the unexpected chaos, the graduation ceremony proceeded successfully, with more than 1,500 students conferred degrees, diplomas, and certificates across various disciplines.

The university has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident.

General sworn in as interim leader of Guinea Bissau after coup

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Kibet Tobias
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General sworn in as interim leader of Guinea Bissau after coup

Military officials in Guinea-Bissau on Thursday named a general as the country’s transitional president.

Horta Inta-A’s inauguration came a day after soldiers toppled the civilian leadership in a swift power grab ahead of the announcement of the weekend’s election results.

In a statement, he justified taking control of the country saying it faced threats to its stability from politicians and drug barons, without providing any details.

The military government will oversee a one-year transition period starting from Thursday, it said in a declaration broadcast on state television.

“Created in response to the events of November 26, this new military entity immediately assumed supreme power in the state of Guinea-Bissau,” said the general at his swearing-in ceremony.

Guinea-Bissau is a notorious cocaine transport hub with a long history of military interventions in politics.

READ ALSO – Guinea-Bissau opposition accuses president of faking coup to retain power

The coup came after incumbent President Umaro Sissoco Embaló and opposition candidate Fernando Dias both declared victory in the Sunday polls.

Before the announcement of Inta-A’s presidency, Dias accused Embaló of staging a “fake coup” to derail the election because he feared he would lose.

The capital Bissau was mostly quiet on Thursday, with soldiers on the streets and many residents staying indoors.

African Union has condemned the coup and called for Embaló’s release. The deposed president’s whereabouts remain unknown.

On Wednesday he told French media that he had been arrested by soldiers.

The reported military takeover is the latest in a string of coups and attempted coups in Guinea-Bissau since it gained independence from Portugal in 1974.

It is also the most recent in a surge of military takeovers in West Africa, where democracy has been challenged by disputed elections that analysts say could embolden militaries.

READ ALSO – President Trump ‘permanently pause migration’ from ‘third world countries

Guinea-Bissau opposition accuses president of faking coup to retain power

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Kibet Tobias
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Guinea-Bissau opposition accuses president of faking coup to retain power
Guinea-Bissau opposition accuses president of faking coup to retain power

Guinea-Bissau main opposition candidate has accused deposed President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of faking a coup to retain power.

Fernando Dias was the main challenger in last week’s closely contested presidential vote, which both men claim to have won.

A general inaugurated as the country’s leader after the military seized power on Wednesday had been a close ally of Embaló.

On Thursday, General Horta Inta-A was named transitional president of the military government, which will oversee a one-year transition period.

Dias, in a video posted online, echoed claims made by civil society groups.

“I am the winner of the elections. I have polling station reports confirming my victory. I won the elections, so how could I possibly orchestrate a coup? After all, who is behind this,” he said.

Embaló’s whereabouts remain unknown. On Wednesday he told French media that he had been arrested by soldiers.

The opposition called on people to stage protests against the coup and demand publication of the election results.

But on Thursday morning, activities appeared to be normal in the capital Bissau, with businesses and public transport gradually picking up.

The opposition African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde was barred from the vote in the elections.

This prompted its leader, former Prime Minister Domingos Simões Pereira and runner-up in the 2019 election, to back Dias.

The reported military takeover is the latest in a string of coups and attempted coups in Guinea-Bissau since it gained independence from Portugal in 1974.

It is also the latest in a surge of military takeovers in West Africa, where democracy recently has been challenged by disputed elections that analysts say could embolden militaries.

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