VetLab Sports Club captain Eric Karuga is facing scrutiny after being summoned by the Betting Control Licensing Board (BCLB) over allegations of conducting illegal betting activities at the club premises.
According to a letter seen by this publication, Karuga has been accused of organizing unauthorized betting events “on Tuesdays, Fridays and public holidays” at VetLab Sports Club without proper licensing from the regulatory body.
“The Betting Control & Licensing Board is in receipt of complaint against you for conducting illegal betting activities… without the requisite license or authorization from the Board,” wrote Fredrick Mbasi, a BCLB official, in the letter addressed to Karuga and copied to the VetLab Sports Club Chairman.
The Board has invited Karuga to attend its Complaints Handling Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at 10:30 am at the BCLB offices on 1st Ngong Avenue to respond to these allegations.
It remains unclear whether Karuga will attend the hearing in person or send a representative.
Under Kenyan law, the BCLB is “expressly mandated vide Betting, Lotteries and Gaming Act Cap 131, Laws of Kenya to control, license and regulate different forms of gaming/gambling in the country.”
Betting activities are reportedly prohibited in members clubs, and violations could result in penalties including fines or bans.
If found culpable, Karuga could face consequences ranging from suspension to complete revocation of his club membership.
The complaint, which was reportedly filed approximately two weeks ago, raises serious questions about integrity in sports and the involvement of participants in betting activities.
Karuga, a longstanding member and resident golfer at VetLab, recently led the club during the Easter holiday Tannahill Cup.
He is a regular competitor in domestic tournaments, including the KCB East Africa Golf Tour and the Chairman’s Cup, which he won in 2023 and 2024.
Meanwhile, in other sporting news, cash-strapped Mathare United has been forced to forfeit Kenya Premier League games due to financial difficulties.
A scandal involving alleged nepotism and conflict of interest has emerged at the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA), where a recruitment firm appears to have orchestrated a scheme to place its own director in a senior position while facilitating questionable hiring practices.
The Circular Recruitment
According to information reviewed by this publication, Amazon Fronts Limited Human Resource Consultants, a recruitment firm led by Patrick Mutisya, was initially contracted to recruit for the position of Director General at KeRRA. The firm successfully placed Philemon Kandie in this top position.
What followed appears to be a pattern of reciprocal benefits. After Kandie’s appointment, Amazon Fronts Limited was awarded a contract to conduct team building exercises that reportedly cost KeRRA “millions” in public funds.
The relationship didn’t end there. In 2022, Amazon Fronts Limited was again contracted by KeRRA for another recruitment exercise.
Most troubling, however, was what happened next: the firm’s own director, Patrick Mutisya, was appointed to the position of Director of Corporate Services at KeRRA.
Sources familiar with the matter described this appointment as “a gift” to Mutisya for his role in placing Kandie as Director General, raising serious questions about procurement integrity and conflicts of interest in public appointments.
Nepotism Allegations
The scandal extends beyond the leadership positions. Sources indicate that individuals recruited to one-year contract positions at KeRRA are “mostly relatives” of the Director General and former Board Members.
In one specific case, Victor Momanyi from the Inspectorate of State Corporations allegedly has two children who were recruited to positions at KeRRA, further suggesting nepotistic practices within the agency.
The revelations come at a time when President William Ruto’s Special Economic Advisor, Moses Kuria, has proposed dissolving KeRRA entirely.
In a statement issued on April 25, 2025, the former Public Service Cabinet Secretary called for a radical overhaul of Kenya’s roads sector.
Kuria’s six-point plan includes:
– Maintaining only the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) under national government control
– Disbanding both KeRRA and the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA)
– Establishing County Roads Authorities in all 47 counties
– Distributing Roads Maintenance Levy Fund according to the Commission for Revenue Allocation formula
– Empowering County Roads Authorities to issue securitization instruments
While Kuria’s proposal appears unrelated to the current scandal, it raises questions about whether governance concerns at KeRRA may have influenced his reform agenda.
The alleged self-dealing arrangement between Amazon Fronts Limited and KeRRA leadership represents a potential violation of public procurement laws and ethics regulations governing conflicts of interest in public service.
Road infrastructure development represents one of Kenya’s largest public expenditures, with billions allocated annually across the various roads authorities. Ensuring these funds are managed transparently is critical for the country’s development agenda.
KeRRA officials have not responded to requests for comment on these allegations as of publication time.
The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) is mourning the loss of 24-year-old soldier Precious Mabonga, who was found dead in her home in Kahawa Sukari on Thursday in what authorities are investigating as a suicide.
Mabonga’s body was discovered hanging from metal bars in her bathroom on April 24, with investigators determining she had used a manila rope to take her own life.
She was based at the Kahawa Barracks.
Investigations revealed that Mabonga had previously attempted suicide on March 25, 2025, at the Kahawa Barracks Military Police Unit.
She was admitted to the Defence Forces Memorial Hospital, where she was diagnosed with Recurrent Depressive Disorder.
Teams that visited the scene found medication prescribed for treating depression.
The body was moved to the Defence Forces Memorial Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
Cases of suicide among soldiers have been on the rise, despite efforts by authorities to curb the trend.
Like police officers, soldiers often face immense pressure, handling community problems while working under extremely difficult conditions and putting their lives at risk.
Over the years, a spike in deaths among security officers has been linked to trauma.
The World Health Organization attributes such cases to factors such as joblessness, bereavement, academic pressures, legal and financial challenges, bullying, previous suicide attempts, a family history of suicide, alcoholism, substance abuse, depression, and bipolar disorder.
The government says efforts are ongoing to address the growing mental health crisis among service members.
KISUMU COUNTY — Workers at Zipline Kenya Ltd, a drone logistics company that has made headlines for its innovative approach to medical deliveries, are reportedly facing a different kind of challenge on the ground — a toxic work environment that threatens to undermine the company’s operations.
According to information obtained by Kenya Insights, employees at the company’s Chemelil hub in Kisumu County are experiencing significant workplace dissatisfaction, with many considering leaving their positions due to management issues.
Multiple sources familiar with the situation claim that the workplace culture has deteriorated under the leadership of the company’s People Partner, with allegations of favoritism and dismissive attitudes toward employee concerns.
“There’s a growing sense of frustration among team members who feel their grievances are not being taken seriously,” said a source who requested anonymity for fear of retaliation.
“When issues are raised, they’re often addressed with superficial gestures like buying lunch or pizza instead of implementing meaningful changes.”
Particularly concerning, according to our sources, is that previous attempts to alert senior management about these issues were allegedly ignored.
Employees reportedly submitted anonymous feedback last year highlighting their concerns, but claim no action was taken in response.
Zipline Kenya, which operates drone technology to deliver medical supplies to hard-to-reach areas, has been recognized for its innovative approach to healthcare logistics in Kenya.
The company’s Chemelil hub serves as a critical distribution center for its operations.
When contacted by Kenya Insights, Zipline Kenya did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the allegations.
Workplace culture experts note that high employee turnover can significantly impact operational efficiency, particularly in specialized technical fields like drone logistics where specialized skills and training are required.
“Companies that dismiss employee concerns often face downstream effects on productivity, innovation, and ultimately service delivery,” said Margaret Wambui, a Nairobi-based HR consultant not affiliated with Zipline.
Kenya Insights will continue to monitor this developing situation and update this story as more information becomes available.
St Peter’s Square in the Vatican is the focus of mourning for Catholics worldwide on April 26, 2025, as the 1.4-billion-member Church farewells their pontiff. Follow Reuters live coverage throughout the day
As public pressure mounts against Kenya’s booming betting industry, new allegations have emerged connecting Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, a close ally of President William Ruto, to the ownership structure of popular betting company Bangbet, particularly as concerns grow over the viral “aviator” gambling game sweeping across the nation.
According to sources familiar with the matter, Sudi allegedly holds approximately 30% stake in the Kenyan franchise of Bangbet, which operates locally under Rabow Co. Limited.
These claims suggest his involvement represents a “political insurance policy” designed to shield the company from regulatory interference while ensuring its continued operation in Kenya’s lucrative gambling market.
“The stake was negotiated. It’s about protection,” one industry insider revealed. “There are directors listed on paper, but they are just placeholders.”
Bangbet, reportedly generating hundreds of millions of shillings in daily turnover, has become one of Kenya’s most profitable betting platforms, with much of its success attributed to the controversial “aviator” betting game that has sparked national debate about gambling addiction.
Shadow Ownership Structure
The ownership structures of betting companies in Kenya have long remained opaque, with beneficial owners often operating behind corporate veils.
While Rabow Co. Limited is the registered operating entity for Bangbet in Kenya, company registration documents reviewed for this investigation do not explicitly name Sudi as a shareholder.
This strategy of using “shadow shareholders” appears common across Kenya’s gambling sector, where politically connected individuals can benefit financially while avoiding public scrutiny and potential moral backlash.
“Many politicians and influential businesspeople prefer to distance themselves publicly from gambling operations due to the growing stigma and potential regulatory scrutiny,” explained a gambling industry analyst.
Mounting Social Concerns
The allegations come amid growing public outrage over gambling addiction and financial ruin affecting Kenyan communities.
Kenyans on social media and advocacy groups have increasingly called for tighter regulations or outright bans on high-frequency betting products, particularly those targeting youth through flashy advertising and instant cash promises.
Critics argue that political entanglements in the betting industry represent a classic case of regulatory capture—where public institutions tasked with oversight are compromised by the very elites they are supposed to regulate.
“Politician ownership of betting companies creates potential conflicts of interest when it comes to regulation and oversight,” noted Dr. Jennifer Kimani, a public policy researcher focusing on Kenya’s gambling sector. “If lawmakers have financial stakes in these businesses, it complicates efforts to implement necessary consumer protections.”
Pattern of Political Connections
These allegations align with a broader pattern of reported connections between Kenya’s political elite and the highly profitable betting industry.
Multiple politicians and businesspeople with political connections have previously been linked to ownership stakes in betting operations across the country.
MozzartBet Kenya for instance is locally tied to former minister Musa Sirma as a shareholder, SportPesa is owned by Kasarani MP Ronald Karauri.
Langata MP Phelix Jalang’o owns Pakamia that runs the condemned aviator program.
Labour and Social Protection CS Alfred Mutua, reportedly owns a betting company called Sakabets Safi Limited (PVT-5JUERQGM).
When contacted for comment, MP Sudi’s office did not respond to requests for verification regarding the alleged ownership stake. Similarly, representatives for Bangbet Kenya declined to discuss their ownership structure, stating that shareholder information is private.
The Ministry of Interior, which oversees gambling regulation through the Betting Control and Licensing Board, has recently promised enhanced scrutiny of betting companies’ ownership structures as part of broader industry reforms.
As concerned citizens continue to demand accountability, the question remains whether such regulatory efforts can succeed when those tasked with creating and enforcing gambling laws may themselves be profiting from the very industry they’re meant to oversee.
Police have arrested a key suspect in the tragic arson attack in which nine family members were killed in Siaya on Tuesday.
The 56-year-old man was arrested in Kibra, Nairobi, while having supper with his children.
He had reportedly gone into hiding after learning detectives were pursuing him.
Police said they received a tip-off about the suspect’s presence in the area just a day after the horrific incident in Upanda village of Sigomere in Ugunja subcounty.
A whole family of nine; father, mother and their seven children, were burnt to death.
Police said neighbours in Kibera raised suspicions after Owino informed them he had travelled to his rural home on the night of the incident.
Police, supported by local leaders in Kibra’s Kianda area, arrested him. He was due to be sent to Siaya for further interrogation.
Kilimani subcounty police commander Patricia Yegon confirmed the arrest, adding that coordination with Ugunja police was underway to reconcile details before taking further action.
The man’s wife was arrested on Wednesday in Sigomere after police recovered a fuel can believed to have been used to set the house ablaze.
The man told police he was aware of his wife’s arrest and detention at Ugunja police station.
Detectives confiscated the suspect’s mobile phones for forensic analysis as part of efforts to identify and arrest possible accomplices.
Sources close to the investigation revealed the suspect allegedly hired a group of associates and travelled with them to Upanda village in the early morning hours to commit the crime before returning to Nairobi.
The suspect is said to have hosted church members at his Kibra house on Wednesday evening for prayers after his rural house was torched by irate villagers in an apparent retaliation attack, police said.
Upanda villagers woke up to the devastating news that a mysterious fire had wiped out an entire household. Police said the incident may have been deliberately set, possibly linked to a long-standing land dispute involving the family.
Four of the victims were burnt beyond recognition, while the others were found lifeless in the remains of the charred house.
Among the deceased were a high school student preparing for national exams and a six-month-old infant.
The man of the home, aged 45, was involved in a land dispute with another family, police said, adding the matter had been solved in court.
The bodies were taken to Siaya County Referral Hospital mortuary for postmortem examinations as investigations continue. Nyanza regional head of DCI George Mutonya said they are looking for more suspects.
“We are looking for more suspects in connection with this murder and arson. We hope to find them soon,” he said.
The hallowed halls of Kenya’s premier institution of higher learning are now corridors of controversy.
The University of Nairobi, once the pride of the nation’s education system, stands on the precipice of institutional paralysis amid a perfect storm of corruption allegations, leadership wrangles, and governance failures.
Raid and Allegations: EACC Closes In
On Thursday, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) executed a dramatic search operation at the home and office of Brian Ouma, the acting Chief Operations Officer and Director of University Advancement and Institutional Development.
The raid marks an escalation in the Commission’s investigation into “high-value scandals” that have engulfed the institution.
“The search has yielded significant evidential material,” the EACC stated, confirming that Ouma was escorted to their offices to record a statement regarding alleged unexplained personal benefits totaling Sh12 million received between 2019 and 2024.
An EACC insider, speaking to the media revealed: “We’re looking at transactions that lack any supporting documentation to justify the payments. This is just the tip of the iceberg.”
Council Under Siege
The day before the raid, the entire University Council was summoned to appear before the EACC.
Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Margaret Hutchinson promptly notified Council Chair Prof. Amukowa Anangwe of the summons, but the Council requested a two-week extension, citing “fair administrative practice.”
This request effectively meant the Council failed to appear at Integrity Centre as directed.
Council members facing investigation include:
– Prof. Amukowa Anangwe (Chair)
– Prof. Margaret Hutchinson (Acting VC)
– Dr. Parmain ole-Narikae
– Dr. Kenrick Ayot
– Joel Kibe
– Carren Omwenga
– Ahmed Sheikh Abdullahi
They are under scrutiny for allegedly receiving irregular personal payments from university funds.
Land Scandals and Vanishing Millions
University of Nairobi main campus.
Beyond personal enrichment allegations, the EACC is investigating potentially devastating institutional fraud involving university lands and construction projects.
Multiple university-owned properties across Nairobi and beyond are allegedly being illegally acquired or leased to private individuals, including:
– 10 acres at Kanyariri Farm
– 40 acres behind ANP hostels in Loresho
– 100 acres at Kibwezi Field Station
– 20 acres leased to Shamba Cafe Hotel in Loresho Ridge
– Six acres adjacent to Dusit Hotel
– A parcel in Spring Valley near a shopping center
Perhaps most alarming is the stalled Engineering and Science Complex project.
The EACC alleges that over Sh100 million was spent “largely on allowances and feasibility studies, with no tangible work on site,” pointing to procurement irregularities and possible embezzlement.
In another financial scandal, the Faculty of Business and Management Sciences is under investigation for unexplained payments totaling Sh76 million to external service providers and staff allowances over a four-year period.
Leadership Vacuum and Power Struggles
The governance crisis at UoN is exacerbated by the absence of a substantive Vice-Chancellor.
Though the Public Service Commission conducted interviews for the position last month, the Council has yet to make an appointment.
This leadership vacuum has created fertile ground for factional battles.
Prof. Hutchinson advised against a Council meeting scheduled for yesterday, citing the ongoing EACC investigations.
Meanwhile, Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU) officials threatened to disrupt the meeting, demonstrating the deepening internal divisions.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has intervened twice to revoke Council appointments, only to be thwarted by court orders granting temporary relief to the current Council.
The CS has also denied the Council’s request to hold special meetings, citing the Auditor-General’s report which flagged irregular meetings exceeding the number allowed in the university charter.
“The Worst Apathy Ever Witnessed”
UASU has now called for the Directorate of Criminal Investigations to join the probe, with Chapter Secretary Dr. Maloba Wekesa delivering a scathing indictment of the Council’s “overreach.”
“These include bizarre and irregular direct operational involvement in staff transfers, vindictive suspensions, and patronage-driven contract extensions,” Dr. Wekesa charged.
“This overreach has disregarded the established separation of powers between the Council and the accounting officer — the vice-chancellor.”
The result, according to the union, is “the worst apathy in staff motivation ever witnessed at the University of Nairobi.”
As investigations intensify and leadership battles continue, the University of Nairobi faces its gravest crisis in decades.
The intertwined scandals threaten not just the institution’s finances and governance but its very credibility as Kenya’s flagship university.
With the EACC demanding original payment documents, meeting minutes, and attendance registers dating back to 2022, and both the Education Ministry and UASU applying pressure from different angles, the coming weeks will be critical for the institution’s future.
For now, Kenya’s premier university remains caught between corruption allegations, administrative paralysis, and turf wars that threaten to tear apart what was once the crown jewel of the nation’s education system.
Nakuru County Governor Susan Kihika has finally returned to Kenya after an extended five-month absence in the United States, where she welcomed twin babies.
The governor marked her homecoming with a celebration attended by colleagues and friends who gathered to welcome her and her newborns back to the country.
“Truly blessed and overwhelmed with gratitude. Was deeply humbled and honored to receive a warm visit from my dear friends who came to welcome me home and celebrate the arrival of my twin babies,” Kihika shared in a heartfelt post on her Facebook page.
“Your love, prayers, and presence mean the world to me and my family. Thank you for standing with me in this special season of double blessings.”
The governor’s prolonged absence had sparked significant controversy both locally and online, with many Kenyans questioning her commitment to her gubernatorial duties.
Critics argued that her extended stay abroad amounted to neglect of her responsibilities to Nakuru County residents.
The public outcry reached international proportions when concerned citizens went as far as sending a petition to US President Donald Trump, demanding her deportation so she could return to Kenya and resume her official duties.
Throughout her time in the United States, Governor Kihika attempted to maintain a presence in county affairs by posting regular updates about ongoing developments and county projects on her social media platforms.
This approach, however, raised further questions among constituents about whether governance had effectively become a remote occupation.
Defenders Cite Maternity Leave
Despite the criticism, several leaders came to Kihika’s defense, arguing that she was legitimately on maternity leave and entitled to take time off during this important personal period.
Supporters maintained that even elected officials deserve the same considerations given to other working parents.
The governor’s return puts an end to the immediate controversy, though it remains to be seen how she will address the concerns raised during her absence and rebuild public confidence in her administration.
Kihika, who now joins the ranks of women leaders balancing high-profile public service roles with motherhood, faces the challenge of reintegrating into her leadership position while caring for her newborn twins.
In a scathing critique that has sent ripples through diplomatic circles, Vietnam Gas President Doanh Chau publicly condemned Kenya’s leadership approach following high-level meetings with President William Ruto and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi in Nairobi.
Chau, who also serves as President at the Energy Science Group, didn’t mince words in his assessment: “Behind the polished language was a painful truth: there is no serious execution culture” in Kenya’s governance.
The energy executive’s critique centers on what he describes as Kenya’s fundamental challenge—not a shortage of money or talent, but “the absence of long-term vision and the dominance of short-term gain.”
According to Chau, Kenyan leaders are content with rhetoric while failing to build systems that actually deliver results.
“Leaders talk big, but systems don’t move,” Chau observed, pointing to the stark contrast in electricity generation between Vietnam and Kenya.
Despite having twice Kenya’s population, Vietnam produces over 17 times more power at 70 GW compared to Kenya’s mere 4 GW.
“This is not a side issue—it’s the foundation of economic development,” Chau emphasized.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Vietnam Gas President Doanh Chau.
He highlighted how Vietnam prioritized power infrastructure before establishing free trade zones, enabling its transformation into a global export hub, while Kenya built “a fancy expressway from Nairobi to Mombasa” without the export industry to justify such investment.
The Vietnam Gas president also criticized Kenya’s tourism sector, describing cumbersome 90-minute check-in processes at park gates and limited nighttime activities for visitors.
He characterized the Maasai market as “essentially a souvenir stand” rather than a genuine cultural experience.
Corruption remains another significant barrier, with Chau noting that investors are “scared off by petty corruption and legal instability” despite President Ruto’s ambitions to build public housing.
“There are no credible incentives, no serious risk guarantees,” he stated.
Public Reaction and Political Fallout
Chau’s blunt assessment has struck a chord with thousands of Kenyans on social media, many of whom have rallied behind his criticism of the Ruto administration.
Saboti MP Caleb Amisi seized the moment to lambast the government, stating, “When we say Kenyans elected people with big English, big words, big cars, big bank accounts, big choppers, big lies but small brains, we mean it. The world is disappointed with everyone in Ruto government.”
The legislator called for a transformation in leadership, adding, “Kenya needs a dedicated team of leaders with clear vision, charisma, focused, enthusiastic and smart. Kenya is supposed to be Africa’s finest economically. Kenya needs a renaissance.”
Citizen Martin Mwanza echoed these sentiments, highlighting the stark differences in how corruption is handled: “We seem to tolerate corruption, appointing corrupt people to government positions and expecting better results; how stupid are we, while countries like China hang corrupt people and Vietnam hangs drug lords instead of giving them state jobs?”
Social media user MoGAbdi distilled the critique to its essence: “Doanh Chau’s remarks expose Kenya’s deeper crisis: a leadership addicted to optics, not outcomes. No power, no planning, no serious execution. Investors see through the PR.”
The Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) has also joined the chorus of criticism, with party leader Eugene Wamalwa demanding transparency regarding the outcomes of bilateral agreements signed during President Ruto’s numerous high-profile foreign trips.
Critics note the irony that President Ruto, renowned for his oratory skills and persuasive rhetoric—traits that have potentially attracted investor interest—now stands accused by President Chau of leading an administration that prioritizes talk over action.
In contrast, Chau praised Vietnam and Singapore’s leadership model, where “leaders are up at 5 a.m. working on execution, not speeches,” power supply remains constant, policies are “consistent and data-driven,” and incentives align with performance.
While acknowledging his critique comes “from a place of respect and care for Africa,” Chau’s parting message was unambiguous: “The global window is closing. Asia isn’t waiting. If Kenya and much of Africa want a real economic future, they must turn off the microphone—and turn on the power.”
In a development that is likely to heighten political tensions in Nairobi County, Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has made explosive claims that the late Kariobangi North MCA Joel Munuve Kimanzi was poisoned with a “lethal biological agent,” contradicting the official autopsy report that attributed the death to a blood clot.
According to Chief Government Pathologist Dr. Johansen Oduor, who conducted the autopsy, Hon. Munuve died from a pulmonary embolism – a blood clot that traveled from his leg to his lungs, blocking blood flow and preventing oxygen from reaching vital organs.
“Upon opening the body, the most significant findings were in the lungs,” Dr. Oduor stated. “We discovered a large blood clot in the pulmonary artery, a condition that can lead to sudden death.”
The official examination revealed signs of oxygen deprivation, including darkened lips and fingernails, and identified another clot in a blood vessel in the lower limb, suggesting deep vein thrombosis as the initial condition.
However, MP Owino has contested these findings, claiming the blood clot was actually caused by poisoning, specifically pointing to organophosphates (OPs) as the potential agent.
“The autopsy report revealed that there was blood clot in the lungs which is caused by poisoning,” Owino stated. “Research indicates that organophosphate poisoning can cause a prothrombotic state, increasing the likelihood of blood clots.”
Organophosphates are chemicals commonly found in pesticides that interfere with nerve function. While medical literature does suggest they can potentially create conditions favorable for blood clot formation in some cases, Dr. Oduor’s report made no mention of poisoning as a factor.
Lawyer Danstan Omari
Adding another dimension to the controversy, the family of Hon. Munuve, through their legal representatives Danstan Omari and Shedrack Wambui, has suggested possible medical negligence in their relative’s treatment.
They indicated that “proper diagnosis and timely medical intervention could have saved his life.”
The family has noted that various samples, including stomach contents and specific organs, have been submitted for further laboratory analysis, and they are awaiting final results before making definitive public statements.
A medical expert consulted for this story caution that while certain poisons can contribute to blood clot formation, pulmonary embolisms are most commonly caused by natural conditions such as prolonged immobility, certain medical conditions, or genetic predispositions.
Authorities have indicated that the comprehensive laboratory results being awaited by the family should provide more definitive answers in the coming weeks.
In a significant diplomatic milestone, Finland’s President Alexander Stubb and First Lady Suzanne Innes-Stubb will make the first-ever presidential visit from Finland to Kenya next month, marking 60 years of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
The state visit, scheduled for May 12-14, 2025, will feature high-level discussions on bilateral relations, global challenges affecting both continents, and cooperation in support of the multilateral system, according to a press release from the Office of the President of the Republic of Finland.
President Stubb’s three-day itinerary will begin with a meeting with Kenyan President William Ruto in Nairobi, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at Uhuru Gardens.
President Alexander Stubb of Finland and First Lady Suzanne Innes-Stubb are scheduled to undertake a state visit to Kenya from May 12 to 14, 2025.
The Finnish presidential couple will later attend a state banquet hosted by President Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto.
The visit aims to strengthen ties between Finland and Kenya, with President Stubb scheduled to deliver a keynote speech at the closing event of the EU-Kenya Business Forum and participate in a business seminar organized by Business Finland that will focus on the built environment and health sectors.
Education and vocational training will also feature prominently on the agenda, with visits planned to a technical education institution and a company offering vocational training, both involved in projects funded by the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs.
During his stay, President Stubb will address students at the University of Nairobi on geopolitics and transformation of the multilateral order, and meet with representatives of local NGOs and foreign policy experts to discuss regional dynamics and social development.
The Finnish delegation will include parliamentarians Saara-Sofia Sirén and Inka Hopsu, as well as business representatives from various sectors.
The Finnish Ambassador to Kenya will host a formal reception in honor of this historic state visit.
President Stubb is also scheduled to meet with the leadership of the UN Office in Nairobi, where discussions will focus on the future of the UN and support for the multilateral system.
A joint post-mortem examination conducted by government and independent pathologists at Lee Funeral Home has determined that Kariobangi MCA Joel Munuve died from natural causes, specifically a pulmonary thromboembolism.
According to the detailed autopsy report released yesterday, Munuve’s death resulted from a blood clot that formed in the deep veins of his left leg before traveling to his lungs, where it fatally blocked a major blood vessel.
“As a result of my examination, I formed the opinion that the cause of death was Pulmonary Thromboembolism due to Left Popliteal Vein Deep Vein Thrombosis. A blood clot (thrombus) traveled to the lungs and blocked a blood vessel, leading to death,” stated the official autopsy report.
The pathologists discovered that the fatal clot originated from the popliteal vein, located behind Munuve’s left knee, where several additional clots were also found.
Medical experts noted that some of these clots appeared to have been present for an extended period before the fatal episode.
Further examination revealed a large clot covered with a whitish layer lodged in the pulmonary trunk, indicating it had been present for some time.
This obstruction significantly blocked blood flow to the lungs, severely compromising oxygenation and breathing function.
The clot had extended into the lung tissue, resulting in pulmonary infarction—death of lung tissue due to inadequate blood supply.
The comprehensive examination also noted a scar in Munuve’s chest, suggesting a chronic condition in his right lung, and a benign fatty growth (lipoma) in his neck.
A swab was collected for additional viral profiling as part of standard procedure.
The findings conclusively rule out foul play in the death of the Nairobi County Assembly representative, providing closure to speculation that had surrounded his unexpected passing.
Family members and political colleagues have been briefed on the findings, with funeral arrangements expected to be announced in the coming days.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta shared a touching and humorous memory of Pope Francis during a requiem mass held at the Holy Family Minor Basilica in Nairobi on Friday, revealing how the late pontiff once asked him to leave his own presidential office.
Speaking at the memorial service, Kenyatta, who returned to Kenya from Uganda on Thursday night, recounted two memorable encounters with the Pope, emphasizing the extraordinary humility that defined the Catholic leader’s character.
“I had the pleasure and honor of meeting Pope Francis twice, and the memories of those encounters remain very dear to me. I can testify to his remarkable humility,” Kenyatta told the congregation, which included Chief Justice Martha Koome and Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu.
The former president then shared an anecdote that drew both laughter and admiration from those present.
“I remember when the Pope was in Nairobi. We were sitting in my office, talking. When we finished, someone had requested a moment with His Holiness. I passed on the message, invited the person in, and we all sat. There was silence. Then the Pope turned to me and said, ‘I thought you said he wanted to talk to me,’” Kenyatta recalled.
“For the first time as President, another Head of State threw me out of my own office, which I found quite incredible,” he added with a smile.
Kenyatta described how Pope Francis didn’t just meet with the individual but followed up with them after leaving Kenya.
“What greater show of humility can one ask for? That he went out of his way for one individual, even while caring for over a billion others around the world—that was a powerful lesson in humility for me,” the former president reflected.
During the mass, Archbishop Philip Anyolo of the Nairobi diocese praised Pope Francis as a unifying figure who touched millions worldwide through his charitable service and advocacy for the marginalized.
“His Holiness Pope Francis was not only the vicar of Christ but also a prophetic voice in our time, one who unceasingly reminded us that the measure of the greatness of a society is found in the way it treats those most in need,” Archbishop Anyolo said.
The requiem mass follows Thursday’s signing of a condolence book at the residence of Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Matheus Maria van Megen.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula will represent President William Ruto at the upcoming funeral ceremony at St. Peter’s Square Basilica in Rome, which is expected to draw more than 130 senior world leaders and at least 50 heads of state.
Kenyan singer-songwriter Bien-Aimé Baraza, widely known as Bien and a founding member of the acclaimed band Sauti Sol, has announced a solo tour of East Africa set for August and September this year.
In 2024, Bien set out on a solo tour in support of his debut album, Alusa Why Are You Topless? released November 2023.
The 16-track album showcases his versatility, blending Afrobeats, R&B, and Afropop, and features collaborations with artists like Ayra Starr, Ms Banks, Scar Mkadinali, Tay Iwar, and DJ Edu. Notable tracks include “Lifestyle” “My Baby,” and “Too Easy.”
His new tour, which begins in Europe and the United States in May, June and July, will be in support of a new album, ‘Aluta continua’.
Announcing the news, Bien likened his first tour to walking and said he was ready to do it again.
“Now that I have practised walking, it’s time to run, ‘Alusa Continua’ is out soon, and I’m back on the road! Find me in the US and Europe in May, June and July,” he said announcing the new album.
Sharing a video of his past tours, he said that the details of his upcoming E. African dates would be announced later.
“But, home is where the heart is. East Africa, I am also bringing my full tour home. August and September, niko home. Full details coming soon,” he added.
The upcoming tour is set to be a crowning moment for what has already been a stellar year for Bien.
In February, he won a Best Artist in East Africa award at the Trace Awards and performed his fan favourite verse of the song “Nairobi” at the ceremony. He also scooped two awards at the East Africa Arts Entertainment Awards, taking home 3 awards: Best Male Artist, Best Male Live Performer and an award for Best Collaboration for the song “Nairobi” alongside Marioo.
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) is “actively considering” adding gold to its foreign exchange reserves as part of a strategy to diversify beyond the US dollar and other currencies, according to Governor Kamau Thugge.
Speaking on the sidelines of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington DC, Governor Thugge revealed that a dedicated team is currently examining the feasibility of gold acquisition, though he declined to provide a specific timeline for implementation.
“We have basically a group that is looking at the feasibility of doing it and yes, that’s something that we’re actively considering,” Thugge told Bloomberg Television in an interview on Thursday.
The move aligns Kenya with a growing global trend of central banks stockpiling gold, which has driven precious metal prices to record levels.
This worldwide rush toward gold began in early 2024, as central banks sought to hedge against dollar fluctuations and protect themselves from potential sanctions.
In the same interview, Thugge disclosed that Kenya is pursuing a new IMF program “in the same format as the previous one,” valuing the concessional element of the funds and the attached policy package as “a good package in the current context of elevated global risks.”
This follows the premature termination of a four-year $3.6 billion IMF program in March, which resulted in Kenya forgoing approximately $850 million after failing to meet certain targets.
The governor expressed optimism about Kenya’s economic outlook, projecting growth “at a much faster pace” than last year’s estimated 4.6%, despite potential headwinds from US trade policies.
He anticipates that US tariffs on trading partners would only reduce Kenya’s economic growth by about 0.2%.
Thugge attributed the expected economic expansion to favorable weather conditions boosting the agricultural sector, combined with lower interest rates stimulating investment and consumption.
“Last year’s pressures have eased, and we have started to ease monetary policy,” he noted.
Regarding financing strategies, the governor indicated that Kenya isn’t “planning and expecting to go to the international capital markets for a while” following a recent Eurobond issue.
Instead, the nation plans to leverage its “deep local financial market” and explore loans from other regions, including the Middle East.
In a significant corporate restructuring, Radio Africa Limited has let go of 27 employees, some of whom had been with the company for over two decades.
The announcement came through an internal memorandum issued on April 25, 2025, by Group CEO Martin Khafafa.
According to the memo seen by Kenya Insights, the decision was described as “incredibly difficult” but necessary to “ensure the sustainability of our business while facing rising operational costs in a harsh economic climate.”
The layoffs come amid challenging economic conditions affecting media houses across East Africa, with many organizations struggling to maintain profitability as advertising revenues decline and operational costs increase.
“I understand that the current mood is heavy, and I fully recognize the uncertainty this may have caused,” Khafafa stated in the memo addressed to all staff.
“This restructuring is intended to stabilize our operations and position the company for future growth.”
The CEO emphasized that the company’s priority now is to support remaining employees while continuing to deliver the value and experience that clients expect.
He also outlined his commitment to transparency and stability as the organization transforms “into a leading audiovisual business.”
The fresh wave of layoffs comes just weeks after shutting down its television division.
Radio Africa Limited, which operates several media outlets across Kenya including, Classic FM, Kiss 100, Radio Jambo, East FM, Gukena FM, The Star newspaper, and Mpasho has been working to diversify its business model in recent years, with a growing focus on digital and audiovisual content as traditional radio listenership patterns evolve.
The layoffs represent a significant portion of the company’s workforce and signal what may be a broader trend of consolidation in Kenya’s competitive media landscape.
Stephen Odhiambo Obise, now famously known as “Migori James Bond,” has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for hanging from a helicopter during a local celebrity’s wedding ceremony.
Senior Principal Magistrate Mathias Okuche handed down the sentence on Tuesday, offering Obise the alternative of paying a Ksh 500,000 fine to avoid imprisonment.
The defendant had pleaded guilty to charges of endangering the safety and security of an aircraft and its passengers through disorderly conduct.
The dramatic incident occurred on April 13, 2025, during popular musician Prince Indah’s traditional wedding ceremony in Rapogi village, Migori County.
Obise was seen clinging dangerously to the helicopter’s skid as it took off, headed for Nairobi with passengers on board.
Witnesses reported that the quick-thinking pilot was forced to make an unscheduled landing in a nearby farm to ensure Obise’s safety.
After being dropped off, Obise fled the scene and went into hiding until police apprehended him later that night.
During sentencing, Obise expressed remorse for his actions and informed the court that he is the sole breadwinner for his family, including two children who depend on him.
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has launched its annual internship program aimed at developing young talent for the banking and financial sector.
The one-year program seeks to prepare recent graduates for employment opportunities by providing hands-on experience in central and commercial banking operations.
According the announcement, the CBK is recruiting interns across several departments including Finance, Research, Banking and Payment Services, Communications, Human Resources, Internal Audit & Risk, General Services, and Information Technology.
To qualify, applicants must possess a first degree in relevant disciplines such as Finance, Economics, Statistics, Banking, Accounting, Micro-Finance, Human Resources, Management, Social Sciences, Information Technology, Communications, or a master’s degree in a related field.
Candidates must be Kenyan citizens aged between 21 and 29 years and must have graduated within the past 24 months.
The authority emphasizes that successful candidates should not have undertaken any other internship program or gained workplace experience related to their field of study since graduating.
Additional requirements include strong interpersonal and communication skills, goal orientation, teamwork abilities, and computer proficiency.
Applications must be submitted online before May 16, 2025, with candidates required to create a profile and upload academic certificates, transcripts, and a recommendation letter from their learning institution.
The regulator has clarified that it will not offer permanent employment after completion of the internship, though interns may apply for advertised positions upon program completion.
As an equal opportunity employer, the CBK encourages applications from women, persons living with disabilities, and candidates from marginalized communities.
For more information and to apply, interested candidates should visit the CBK website.
An investigation has uncovered a disturbing organ trafficking operation where vulnerable Kenyans were manipulated into selling their kidneys for as little as Sh130,000 ($1,000) and a motorcycle, while middlemen reaped profits of up to Sh29.5 million (€200,000) per organ.
According to documentation from the Kenya Renal Association (KRA), this illegal trade flourished for years with the apparent complicity of senior officials at the Ministry of Health (Afya House) who repeatedly ignored warnings about suspicious kidney transplants dating back to 2021.
“Officials at various regulatory bodies may have been on monthly retainer fees to look the other way,” revealed a source close to the investigation.
The recently closed Mediheal Group of Hospitals has been identified as a central player in the scheme, though several other facilities were also implicated.
KRA chairman Dr. John Ngigi raised concerns in multiple letters to regulatory authorities between 2021 and 2022, highlighting specific cases including a failed transplant involving Zimbabwean nationals at an unlicensed Kisii facility that resulted in a patient’s death. These warnings were systematically ignored by the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council and senior health officials.
The trafficking operation employed sophisticated methods:
– Targeting vulnerable individuals through deception or financial incentives
– Transporting victims across borders with forged documentation
– Conducting unsafe surgeries in unsanitary conditions
– Operating unlicensed facilities with unauthorized foreign doctors
Perhaps most alarming was the alleged manipulation of an official investigation report on Mediheal. Instead of including damning findings that would have triggered immediate closure, the report merely suggested “verification of voluntary organ donation” by “investigative authorities.”
