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KDF Officer Killed in Brutal Kisumu Attack as Police Launch Probe

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KDF Officer Killed in Brutal Kisumu Attack as Police Launch Probe
KDF Officer Killed in Brutal Kisumu Attack as Police Launch Probe

Police have launched investigations into the gruesome killing of a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officer who was attacked by unknown assailants in the Seme area of Kisumu County.

According to local authorities, the officer was attacked early Saturday morning while heading home from Asat Beach in the company of another man. The two were ambushed by the assailants, who struck them with sharp objects, inflicting deep cuts to their heads and limbs.

The 46-year-old KDF officer, who was attached to Embakasi Barracks, was rushed to the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Referral Hospital (JOORH) but succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival at around 4 a.m.

The second victim survived the attack and is currently receiving treatment at the same hospital with serious injuries.

Following the death, the officer’s body was transferred from JOORH to Kwea Funeral Home, where it is being preserved pending a post-mortem examination.

Speaking to the press hours after the incident, West Othany Assistant Chief Richard Jaoko confirmed that security agencies had commenced investigations into the attack. Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), working alongside officers from Kombewa Police Station, visited the scene as part of the probe.

Authorities have appealed to members of the public who may have information related to the incident to come forward and assist investigators.

The killing comes amid a surge in insecurity in various parts of the country, with cases of muggings, robbery with violence and murder reported to have increased, particularly during the festive season.

In response, the Ministry of Interior announced enhanced security measures on December 17 aimed at safeguarding lives and property across the country. Authorities have activated a coordinated, multi-agency security plan to bolster public safety throughout the holiday period.

The strategy includes the activation of the National Multi-Agency Command Centre (NMACC), which will oversee surveillance, intelligence sharing and rapid response operations before, during and after the festive season.

“Original Is Always Premium”: Mosiria Warns Women Against Fake Curves and Body Shapers

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“Original Is Always Premium”: Mosiria Warns Women Against Fake Curves and Body Shapers
“Original Is Always Premium”: Mosiria Warns Women Against Fake Curves and Body Shapers

Nairobi Chief Officer for Citizen Engagement and Customer Care Geoffrey Mosiria has sparked debate after calling on women to ditch artificial body-shaping clothing, warning that the growing trend of fake curves is misleading, unhealthy and driven by unrealistic beauty standards.

Mosiria made the remarks after visiting a clothing store where he encountered hip pads, butt boosters and tummy binders openly displayed for sale. The discovery, he said, was an eye-opener.

“Jameni, everything out here is fake these days! I’ve just realised today that men are no longer safe from what they admire,” Mosiria wrote in a post on Saturday.

“You get excited thinking you’ve hit the jackpot, only to later discover the ‘assets’ were sponsored by extra layers, pads and creative engineering.”

Beyond the humour, Mosiria’s message carried a serious appeal. He urged women to embrace their natural bodies and avoid shortcuts that could compromise both their health and confidence.

“Dear ladies, relax. At the end of the day, there will always be someone who loves, prefers and appreciates you exactly the way you are — without upgrades, modified installations or software updates,” he said, adding his signature line: “Original is always premium!”

Artificial shapewear such as hip pads, padded underwear, butt enhancers and waist trainers have become increasingly popular, especially on social media and online marketplaces. Marketed as quick fixes for achieving a curvier silhouette, these products instantly lift and shape the body under clothing — effects that disappear as soon as they are removed.

Health experts, however, warn that some of these body-shaping gadgets come with risks when misused.

According to Healthline, waist trainers and overly tight shapewear can compress internal organs, restrict breathing and cause discomfort if worn for long periods. Prolonged compression may interfere with digestion, reduce lung capacity and weaken core muscles.

“These gadgets may give a quick look, but they don’t provide real, lasting results,” a health specialist noted. “The pressure they put on your midsection can cause breathing issues and may interfere with your core strength.”

Mosiria echoed these concerns, saying many women feel pressured to alter their bodies due to social media trends and unrealistic beauty ideals. He encouraged healthier, sustainable alternatives that promote long-term wellness rather than temporary appearances.

“If you’re not okay with your body, hit the gym or eat healthy — avocados, sweet bananas — or consult a doctor on what to do,” he advised.

Fitness and nutrition experts agree that maintaining a healthy body is best achieved through balanced diets, regular exercise and strength training, rather than artificial enhancers. A combination of aerobic workouts and muscle-toning routines helps burn fat and build lean muscle, while proper hydration, rest and whole foods support overall health.

In his closing message, Mosiria emphasized that confidence, self-esteem and self-acceptance matter far more than temporary looks.

He urged women to choose wellness over quick fixes and to value themselves beyond physical appearance, reminding them that authenticity, not artificial curves, is what truly lasts.

DCI Raids Nairobi Bar as Probe into Cyrus Jirongo’s Death Deepens

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DCI Raids Nairobi Bar as Probe into Cyrus Jirongo’s Death Deepens
DCI Raids Nairobi Bar as Probe into Cyrus Jirongo’s Death Deepens

Detectives investigating the death of former Lugari legislator Cyrus Jirongo have raided a popular bar and restaurant along Magadi Road in Nairobi as part of ongoing efforts to piece together his final movements.

Investigators said they traced Jirongo to the establishment, where he is believed to have visited just hours before he was involved in a fatal road accident several kilometres away.

The raid, conducted on Saturday, December 20, 2025, saw detectives interrogate staff at the premises in a bid to establish who he met, what he consumed, how long he stayed, and the conversations he had before leaving.

According to investigators, Jirongo is believed to have left a hotel in Karen, driven towards Lang’ata Road, later joined Magadi Road, briefly stopped at the restaurant, and then drove off. Hotel management declined to comment on the matter.

The developments, detectives said, followed forensic analysis of Jirongo’s movements and intelligence tips. So far, more than ten people have been questioned in connection with the case, though no arrests have been made.

Jirongo’s death on December 13, 2025, has continued to spark public debate and pressure from family members, who have demanded a thorough probe amid emerging theories surrounding the crash.

An autopsy revealed that Jirongo died from blunt force trauma that caused severe injuries to the chest, abdomen, spine, and limbs.

The postmortem was conducted at Lee Funeral Home in the presence of family pathologist Joseph Ndung’u and Chief Government Pathologist Dr Johansen Oduor.

DCI Raids Nairobi Bar as Probe into Cyrus Jirongo’s Death Deepens
DCI Raids Nairobi Bar as Probe into Cyrus Jirongo’s Death Deepens

Dr Ndung’u said the body had multiple crush injuries, including fractured ribs, perforation of the heart, rupture of major blood vessels, abdominal and liver injuries that caused internal bleeding, fractures to the right hand and lower limbs, and a transection of the spinal cord.

“We formed the opinion that he died as a result of crush injuries to the chest, abdomen, and spinal injuries due to blunt force trauma,” Dr Ndung’u said. Police officers were present during the postmortem.

Meanwhile, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirmed that it commenced investigations into the circumstances surrounding Jirongo’s death, which occurred following a road accident on the night of December 13, 2025, at Karai area along the Nakuru–Nairobi Highway.

Preliminary findings indicate that Jirongo’s vehicle was involved in a head-on collision with a public service vehicle (PSV) bus belonging to Climax Company Limited at approximately 2:19 a.m.

The impact pushed Jirongo’s vehicle about 25 metres from the point of collision, while the bus stopped roughly 50 metres away.

A combined team of homicide detectives and forensic experts from the National Forensic Laboratory visited the scene, secured exhibits, and retrieved CCTV footage from a nearby petrol station.

Initial analysis shows that at 2:18:40 a.m., Jirongo drove into the station from the Nairobi direction but did not refuel. At 2:19:10 a.m., he stopped at the exit, made a right turn back towards Nairobi at 2:19:19 a.m., and seconds later, at 2:19:25 a.m., the CCTV captured the PSV bus ramming into his vehicle.

Detectives have interrogated the PSV driver, Tyrus Kamau Githinji, who recorded a statement at the Naivasha Traffic Base.

He has been released on cash bail pending further investigations into the offence of causing death by dangerous driving and is expected to report back on December 22, 2025.

Investigators have also recorded statements from the petrol station’s night guard and fuel attendant, while further analysis of CCTV footage is ongoing. Additional statements will be taken from passengers aboard the Climax Company Limited bus and other witnesses.

Detectives are also continuing to examine Jirongo’s movements prior to the accident, including interactions at Karen Oasis Bar and Restaurant.

Once investigations are complete, a comprehensive file will be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for review and further direction.

Relief for Parents as MoE Reopens KJSEA Placement Revision Portal

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Relief for Parents as MoE Reopens KJSEA Placement Revision Portal
Relief for Parents as MoE Reopens KJSEA Placement Revision Portal

The Ministry of Education has announced that it will reopen the Kenya Junior School Education Assessment (KJSEA) placement revision portal Ministry of Education from December 23, giving parents and learners an opportunity to make changes to their selections.

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba said the five-day window will allow learners to review and amend their choices to better align with their academic performance and personal interests.

Parents and junior school heads have been advised that any concerns regarding placement should be channelled through junior school administrators. Approval of revisions will depend on the availability of space in senior secondary schools.

The move follows widespread dissatisfaction among some parents over the criteria used to place learners in senior secondary schools.

Many parents who received placement notifications on Saturday, December 20, questioned the process, with some saying the automated system failed to provide feedback. Others reported being unable to access their children’s placement results despite using the correct KNEC assessment numbers.

Several parents received automated messages stating: “Dear learner, the requested information is unavailable, or the assessment number does not exist. Confirm that your assessment number is accurate.”

One parent expressed frustration, saying, “The assessment number is the same one I used to access the results. How do I explain to my child that the placement information is unavailable?”

Additional concerns were raised over learners being placed in schools far from their places of residence, which parents say could cause unnecessary stress.

The update comes two days after the Ministry officially released placement results for Grade 9 learners. In a press briefing on Friday, December 19, parents were instructed to check placement details by sending the learner’s KNEC assessment number via SMS to 22263 or through the ministry’s portal at placements.education.go.ke.

The Ministry maintained that the placement process was fully automated and based on learners’ choices, KJSEA performance, psychometric test results, equity considerations, and school capacity.

Education CS Julius Ogamba and Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok presided over the release of the 2025 KJSEA results.

UPDATE! Truphena Muthoni Completes 72-Hour Tree-Hugging Marathon in Record-Breaking Environmental Protest

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Environmental activist Truphena Muthoni has officially completed her bold 72-hour tree-hugging challenge, marking a new milestone in her ongoing campaign for environmental conservation and mental health awareness.

The 22-year-old began the marathon on Monday, December 8, 2025, outside the Nyeri Governor’s Office, drawing crowds of supporters, county officials, and curious residents moved by her unusual but powerful statement.

Muthoni had set out to surpass her previous world-record attempt of 48 continuous hours, achieved in February 2025. This time, she pushed her physical and emotional limits to clock an unprecedented 72 hours without food, water, or breaks, all while remaining embraced around the same tree.

A Protest, a Statement, and a Healing Ritual

From the beginning, Muthoni emphasized that her effort was more than an endurance feat. She described the marathon as a silent protest against deforestation, a plea for the protection of indigenous forests, and a deeply personal journey of healing.

“The reason for hugging trees is that it’s therapeutic, and we have a lot of mental health crises across the world that are directly involved with environmental degradation,” she explained early in the challenge.

She attributes nature as a source of grounding, arguing that reconnecting with the environment can help counter rising mental health struggles linked to environmental loss.

Enduring the Elements

Across the 72-hour marathon, Muthoni faced harsh conditions — heavy rains, frigid nights, physical fatigue, and long hours of stillness. Yet, she remained resolute. Her support team of environmental activists maintained a rotating playlist of diverse music genres to energize her and lift the mood as the hours wore on.

Crowds gathered throughout the three days, some offering moral support, others simply curious to witness what could become a new Guinness World Record.

National Leaders Voice Support

The challenge drew widespread attention, including from high-profile leaders. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua praised Muthoni’s determination, addressing her with both paternal pride and national admiration.

“Truphena Muthoni, push on my daughter,” he said on Wednesday. “I strongly encourage you in your conservation resolve — not only to break your record in the Guinness World Records of hugging a tree but also to raise awareness on environmental conservation and mental health challenges attached.”

He added that her act serves as “a great reminder that the world needs to take time and take care of our common home,” commending her for inspiring a global mindset shift toward environmental stewardship.

Nyeri Governor Kahiga Mutahi and his deputy Kinaniri Waroe also visited the site to witness her progress firsthand. Governor Kahiga, who officiated the start of the countdown on Monday, expressed admiration for her resolve.

“Wow, that’s impressive,” he remarked after observing her sustained focus and stamina.

A Symbol of Hope and Resilience

Muthoni’s record-setting feat has not only captured national attention but has also highlighted the growing intersection between environmental conservation and mental health advocacy. Her message — that nature can heal and must be protected — has resonated widely.

As she completes her remarkable 72-hour challenge, Kenyans celebrate not just her endurance, but her courage, her passion, and her unwavering commitment to safeguarding both the planet and the well-being of future generations.

KJSEA Results Released: Over One Million Learners Set for Transition to Senior Secondary School

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KJSEA Results Released: Over One Million Learners Set for Transition to Senior Secondary School
KJSEA Results Released: Over One Million Learners Set for Transition to Senior Secondary School

The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) has officially released the Kenya Junior Secondary Education Assessment (KJSEA) results, paving the way for Grade 9 learners to transition into senior secondary school.

The assessment, administered between October 27 and November 3, 2025, contributes 60% of a learner’s final grade, with the remaining 40% derived from continuous school-based assessments.

How Parents and Students Can Access Results

Parents and learners can now view and download results through the KNEC Parent Portal by entering the student’s assessment credentials. For those without internet access, results are also available via SMS — simply send the candidate’s assessment number to 22263 at a cost of KES 30.

How Schools Can Access Results

Schools will retrieve performance data through the KNEC Competency-Based Assessment (CBA) portal, using their institutional username and password. Access is controlled through the Sub-County Directors of Education (SCDEs), and requirements may differ depending on the school’s location.

On the CBA portal, schools can navigate to the KPSEA (all grades) or KILEA (special needs learners) sections to download grade-specific and school-specific reports, including the comprehensive KPSEA School Specific Report.

Government Confirms Timely Release and Placement Plans

Basic Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok had earlier indicated that results would be released before December 11, 2025 — a prediction that has now come to pass.

“We plan to release the results and do placements within one week. We expect the learners to get their letters before Christmas and report on January 12, 2026,” Bitok reiterated.

A Milestone Moment for CBC Implementation

More than one million learners will now proceed to senior secondary school, marking another major milestone in the rollout of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC), which has been in place since 2017. The CBC continues to run parallel to the outgoing 8-4-4 system, whose final cohort is preparing to join higher institutions as the curriculum is gradually phased out.

Under the new structure, student placements into senior secondary schools will be guided by performance, directing them into one of three career pathways:

  • STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)

  • Social Sciences

  • Arts and Sports Sciences

Warnings Over Fraudulent Schemes

KNEC has issued alerts regarding fraudulent schemes offering to alter grades for a fee. The Ministry of Education has assured the public that result integrity remains protected and that placement letters will be available by December 25, 2025.

Grade 9 graduates are expected to report to their respective senior secondary schools from January 12, 2026, marking the start of a new chapter in Kenya’s evolving education landscape.

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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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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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.

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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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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.