President Uhuru Kenyatta is preparing to conclude his term as the chairperson of the East African Community (EAC) and will pass the leadership to Burundi's President Evariste Ndayishimiye at the upcoming summit in Arusha. The summit will review the progress of the EAC common market protocol. Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, invited by Kenyatta, will attend the summit as an observer and seek support for Somalia's bid to join the EAC, an effort ongoing since 2012 but previously rejected. Analyst Rashid Abdi views Somalia's potential integration into the EAC as highly beneficial.

World Kiswahili Language Day is celebrated globally, recognizing the language's potential to unify the East African region. Despite its significance, many East Africans, including those in Uganda and Rwanda, struggle with Kiswahili proficiency. Uganda has recently adopted Kiswahili as an official language, with plans to make it compulsory in schools, reflecting President Museveni's advocacy for the language as a tool for African unity. The article suggests that Kiswahili should be prioritized over colonial languages to achieve integration and the vision of a United States of Africa.

Kenya's decision to send 1,000 police officers to Haiti as part of a multinational security mission has sparked debate. While officials like Chief of Staff Felix Kosgey and Inspector General of Police Japheth Koome hail the deployment as recognition of the police service's standards, civil society organizations and activists are concerned about the Kenyan police's human rights record and preparedness. The US supports Kenya's leadership in the effort to restore peace in Haiti, where crimes such as kidnapping and human trafficking are rampant. Critics question Kenya's motivations, citing the US's significant funding and Kenya's internal security needs. Retired Brigadier General Emilio Tanui and international law expert Evans Ogada express concerns about the legitimacy of Haiti's interim administration and the readiness of Kenyan forces for the complex mission. Ogada advises Kenya to act strategically and avoid appearing naive on the international stage.

Agnes Wanjiru's murder near a British Army camp in Kenya remains unsolved after 11 years, with her alleged British soldier killer known but not charged. Wanjiru's family, supported by ACCPA, seeks justice and the soldier's extradition. A peaceful protest is planned at the British High Commission in Nairobi. The UK High Commission acknowledges the case's importance but has not issued an apology for historical injustices in Kenya. The Kenyan government is criticized for a lackluster investigation, and the UK's Ministry of Defense and Royal Military Police are accused of failing to cooperate fully. The case highlights ongoing tensions between Kenya and the UK over unresolved historical and recent grievances.

Nairobi is set to host direct peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo government and rebel groups to address the conflict in eastern Congo. The talks follow an East African Community summit that included discussions on dialogue with armed groups. A regional force to combat insurgency and a secretariat to implement resolutions were agreed upon. The M23 rebel group, previously involved in the Nairobi declaration, is among the participants. The violence in eastern DRC has led to displacement and insecurity due to land, resource, and political power conflicts, exacerbated by foreign interference.

The British High Commissioner to Kenya, Jane Marriot, hosted a celebration in Nairobi for Queen Elizabeth II's 96th birthday and Platinum Jubilee. The event, attended by dignitaries, highlighted the strong UK-Kenya partnership. Health CS Mutahi Kagwe and Marriot spoke of cooperation in health, education, climate, trade, and investment. The UK is Kenya's largest trading partner, with significant tea imports. The event featured performances, a Brit-friendly menu, and was attended by notable Kenyan figures.

Agnes Wanjiru's body was found in a septic tank near the British Army Training Unit Kenya camp in 2012, and despite evidence and witnesses, justice has not been served. Her family, still seeking closure, wishes to convey their plea for justice to King Charles III. The case has seen little progress in both Kenyan and UK justice systems, with the alleged British soldier killer remaining free. The African Centre for Corrective and Preventive Action supports the family's demands, including the extradition of the perpetrators. A peaceful protest is planned at the British High Commission in Nairobi, but there are concerns about police response. The UK High Commission acknowledges the seriousness of the case, but there has been a lack of transparency and action from various agencies. Historical injustices by Britain in Kenya, including the Mau Mau uprising, have been acknowledged but not formally apologized for, with Britain opting for out-of-court settlements.

The Israel-Palestine conflict has resurfaced as a complex issue for African nations, including Kenya, which must balance support for Israel's self-defense and Palestinian aspirations. AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat and former Kenyan Chief Justice Willy M. Mutunga highlight the lack of a unified African stance, influenced by foreign interests. Kenya's recent pro-Israel bias has sparked debate, contrasting with its official two-state solution policy. Observers note President William Ruto's historical affinity for Israel, which is reflected in Kenya's diplomatic and economic ties, including agricultural assistance and a potential free trade agreement with the US. Kenya's shifting positions in international votes on the conflict have raised questions about its consistency. The visit of Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen to Kenya during an AU summit and Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi's state visit to Nairobi indicate the geopolitical significance of Kenya's stance. Kenyan investigative journalist John Allan-Namu and fact-checker Alphonce Shiundu stress the importance of historical context and critical thinking in understanding the conflict.

Raila Odinga's candidacy for the African Union Commission chairmanship was bolstered as African Foreign Ministers dismissed the rotational gender requirement, allowing both male and female candidates from the Eastern and Northern regions to be nominated. The Executive Council confirmed it is Eastern Africa's turn to submit candidates for the Chairperson position. Kenya and Somalia have declared candidates, with Odinga optimistic about his chances, backed by President William Ruto's assurance of East African support. The next AUC chairperson will prioritize AU institutional reforms and addressing peace and security challenges across the continent.

Kenyan President William Ruto's election victory is seen by French investors as a significant change, potentially shifting Kenya's economic and diplomatic alliances towards the United States and away from China. The French Council of Investors in Africa (CIAN) views Ruto's transparency, particularly in disclosing contracts with China and renegotiating loan terms, as positive. Kenya's strategic position and companies like Safaricom make it an attractive investment destination. CIAN, led by Etienne Giros, is ready to engage with businesses in Kenya, which is seen as more organizationally efficient than Nigeria, despite being a smaller market.

Dr Lazarus Chakwera was sworn in as the president of Malawi after a successful election rerun, defeating the incumbent Prof Peter Mutharika with 58.57% of the votes. The ceremony took place at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe, where Chakwera and his vice president, Saulos Chilima, took their oaths. Chilima had to be sworn in twice due to an initial oversight. Chakwera's victory marks the return of the opposition Malawi Congress party to power after 26 years. The election follows a constitutional court ruling that annulled Mutharika's May 2019 election victory due to irregularities, a decision seemingly inspired by Kenya's annulled presidential election in 2017. Chakwera, a former pastor and theology lecturer, faces the challenge of unifying Malawi and promoting economic growth amidst long-standing political unrest.

The Malawi Congress Party (MCP), which was the ruling party at Malawi's independence and the sole legal party from 1966 to 1993, is on the brink of a historic comeback in the June 23 elections. Malawians voted in a repeat election after the constitutional court annulled the 2019 win of incumbent President Arthur Peter Mutharika. The election was a close race between Mutharika, MCP's Lazarus Chakwera, and Peter Kuwani of the Mbakuwaku Movement for Development. Early reports suggest Chakwera has taken a lead with 59% of the vote. Mutharika's party has made accusations of election rigging and has stated it will not accept an opposition win. The Malawi Electoral Commission is expected to declare the final results within 36 to 48 hours. Meanwhile, opposition leaders from other African countries have begun congratulating Chakwera on social media.

The article discusses the challenges faced by journalists in East Africa, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It highlights issues such as reduced salaries, lack of personal protective equipment, and increased censorship and attacks by law enforcement agencies. The situation has raised concerns about the welfare of journalists and the freedom of the press in the region. The article references a virtual World Press Freedom Day forum organized by the Media Council of Kenya and includes insights from Kelvin Mwangi Maina, a journalist with The Standard Group in Kenya, who wrote about these issues in The Standard. Maina, in conversation with Juma Majanga, expresses concerns over pay and censorship, but also maintains hope for a better future for journalists in East Africa.

Officials from the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority concluded a four-day visit to Kenya, led by Dr Penny Lukito, to meet with counterparts from the Kenya Ministry of Health and Kenya Pharmacy and Poisons Board. The visit aimed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in regulating drugs, vaccines, food, and cosmetics. Meetings were held with Health Director General Patrick Amoth and Kenya Pharmacy and Poisons Board CEO Fred Siyoi, focusing on a memorandum of understanding for capacity building. Indonesia's Ambassador to Kenya, Hary Saripudin, highlighted ongoing efforts to promote trade between the two nations.

Tanzanian opposition politician Tundu Lissu has returned to Tanzania after three years in exile, arriving at Dar es Salaam on an Ethiopian Airlines flight. He was welcomed by a large crowd of supporters and members of the opposition party Chadema. Lissu's return coincides with the mourning period for former President Benjamin Mkapa, which has led to police warnings against rallies and gatherings. Despite this, supporters gathered at Julius Nyerere International Airport. The Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians IPU has called for Lissu's safety and the investigation of a past assassination attempt against him. Lissu plans to attend Mkapa's farewell event and has announced his intention to run for president with Chadema in the upcoming October elections.

Tundu Lissu, an exiled Tanzanian opposition leader, is returning to Tanzania from Belgium after three years of specialized treatment following an assassination attempt in 2017. His return coincides with the mourning period for former President Benjamin Mkapa, which has led to a police warning against rallies and gatherings. Despite this, Chadema, the party for which Lissu is the vice chair, has encouraged Tanzanians to welcome him at the airport. The IPU has called on Tanzanian authorities to ensure Lissu's safety and allow him his rights to freedom of expression and assembly. Lissu is scheduled to attend Mkapa's farewell event and has announced his intention to run for president against John Magufuli in the upcoming October elections.

Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina has launched new coronavirus treatment centres and a digital platform called CovData to manage medical data amid a surge in COVID-19 cases. This development comes after Rajoelina previously promoted a herbal remedy called 'Covid Organics' (CVO), which he claimed could prevent and cure COVID-19. Despite his initial endorsement of the herbal tea made from Artemesia Annua, international health organizations like the World Health Organisation and Africa CDC have cautioned against using the remedy without medical supervision. The country has implemented strict measures, including lockdowns, to control the spread of the virus, which has resulted in 8,866 cases, 5,579 recoveries, and 78 deaths in Madagascar.

Benjamin Mkapa, Tanzania's former president, has passed away at the age of 81 in a Dar es Salaam hospital. President John Magufuli announced Mkapa's death and declared a seven-day mourning period. Mkapa, who led Tanzania from 1995 to 2005, was known for his role as a peacemaker in East Africa and Africa, notably for his involvement in Kenya's 2007 post-election peace process. Leaders across Africa, including Kenya's opposition leader Raila Odinga and African Union Commission Chair Moussa Faki Mahamat, have paid tribute to Mkapa's legacy as a statesman and his efforts towards regional integration. Mkapa was also a former journalist and author of books reflecting on his presidency and life.

The family of the late former Tanzanian President Benjamin Mkapa clarified that he died of cardiac arrest, not Covid-19 as speculated on social media. Family spokesperson William Erio made the announcement during Mkapa's funeral mass at Uhuru Stadium. Mkapa had been hospitalized for malaria and passed away on a Thursday night. The funeral was attended by Tanzanian President John Magufuli, former President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa, Vice President Samia Suluhu, and James Mbatia of NCCR, among others. The East African Community is mourning with Tanzania, with Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda declaring three days of national mourning. Mkapa will be buried on July 29, 2020, in his home village of Lupaso in the Mtwara region.

Malawi's President Dr Lazarus Chakwera, recently accused of nepotism in his Cabinet appointments, has agreed to address the nation regarding the concerns raised. In a BBC Focus on Africa interview, he acknowledged the criticisms and expressed his intention to work with civil society groups to move forward. The controversy centers around the appointment of individuals with close personal ties to Chakwera, including the new Minister of Transport Sidik Mia and his wife, the Deputy Minister of Lands Abida Sidik Mia, as well as siblings Kenny Edward Kandodo and Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda in the roles of Minister of Labour and Health Minister, respectively. Additionally, the appointment of media owner Gospel Kazako as the Minister for Information has been criticized for potential conflicts of interest. The Cabinet includes a mix of politicians and private sector individuals.

Tundu Lissu, a Tanzanian opposition leader, has announced his return to Tanzania from Belgium after surviving an assassination attempt in 2017. He plans to return on July 28, despite losing his parliamentary seat in 2019. Lissu criticizes President John Magufuli's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, accusing him of ignoring public health guidelines and silencing the opposition. CHADEMA, the main opposition party, has faced political attacks under Magufuli's leadership. Lissu has picked up presidential nomination forms for the upcoming General Elections in October 2020, where he will potentially compete against Magufuli, who is seeking a second term. CHADEMA is preparing for its national delegates meeting to select a presidential flag bearer.

Malawi President Arthur Peter Mutharika has criticized the recent presidential election re-run, calling it the 'worst election ever in the history of Malawi.' In a speech at Sanjika Palace, Mutharika and his running mate Atupele Muluzi highlighted numerous irregularities and reported violence against election monitors, including the ruling party’s secretary-general. Despite his reservations, Mutharika called for peace and urged Malawians to respect the election results as announced by the Malawi Electoral Commission. Meanwhile, opposition leader Dr. Lazarus Chakwera, who is leading in the unofficial results, received a warm welcome in Lilongwe. The Malawi Electoral Commission is scheduled to hold a press conference to discuss the election results.

Dr Lazarus Chakwera, the candidate from Malawi's opposition Malawi Congress Party (MCP), has won the presidential repeat election with 58.57% of the vote. The incumbent, Prof. Arthur Peter Mutharika, received fewer votes and had previously criticized the election process. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and a short preparation period, the Malawi Electoral Commission successfully conducted the elections. This victory marks a historic moment for Malawi and the MCP, which has not held the presidency since 1994. The constitutional court had annulled Mutharika's 2019 victory due to irregularities, leading to this re-run. Chakwera's win is significant as it represents the first time in Sub Saharan Africa that a flawed election has been overturned and the opposition has gained power through democratic means. Dr Saulos Chilima, who formed the Tonse Alliance with Chakwera, is expected to be sworn in as Vice President.

The article discusses the state of press freedom in various African countries in light of the 2020 World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters without Borders (RSF). It highlights the challenges faced by journalists, including violence, intimidation, censorship, and economic pressures. Norway and North Korea are mentioned as the countries with the freest and least free press, respectively. The article provides a detailed analysis of the press freedom situation in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda, and Burundi, with insights from various media professionals and organizations. It emphasizes the decline in media freedoms in Kenya, the drastic decline in Tanzania, the intimidation of journalists in Uganda, the hostile environment in South Sudan, the stagnation in Rwanda, and the precarious situation in Burundi.

Kenyan envoy to Tanzania, Dan Kazungu, addressed the tensions between Kenya and Tanzania regarding the measures each country has taken to combat COVID-19, particularly concerning border control. After Tanzania imposed restrictions on Kenyan trucks and drivers in response to Kenya's border policy, Kazungu emphasized that both countries are fighting the virus, not each other. He urged Tanzania to understand Kenya's position and highlighted the importance of cooperation, noting that Kenya and Tanzania are key economies in the region. The article also references past diplomatic disputes between the two nations, including trade disagreements and issues over work permits and business operations.

The article discusses the escalating tensions between Kenya and Tanzania due to the handling of coronavirus testing at the Namanga border. Tanzania accuses Kenya of conducting a smear campaign against its tourism industry by testing truck drivers and reporting high infection rates. Arusha Regional Commissioner Mrisho Gambo claims that Tanzania retested drivers who were positive according to Kenyan tests and found them negative. Kenya has implemented stricter border controls, turning away foreigners who tested positive for COVID-19. Kenya's Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe emphasized the importance of these measures in preventing the spread of the virus. Tanzania has reported a total of 509 coronavirus cases, with 183 recoveries and 21 deaths, and is considering easing restrictions like reopening schools and resuming air travel.

Presidents Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya and John Magufuli of Tanzania have agreed to work collaboratively to resolve a diplomatic tension that had arisen due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The tension was primarily around border closures aimed at controlling the spread of the coronavirus. After a phone conversation between the two leaders, directives were given for transport ministers and regional commissioners to address the border issues. The dispute escalated when Tanzania rejected COVID-19 positive test results for its truck drivers at the Namanga border, alleging sabotage of its tourism industry by Kenya. Despite these challenges, both presidents emphasized the importance of mutual trade and the shared cultural ties between their countries. Kenyan exports to Tanzania have been significant, and Magufuli called for continued commerce, highlighting the interdependency of the two nations' economies.

The article discusses the increase in bicycle usage in cities worldwide as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on Nairobi, Kenya. Urban planner Cyprine Odada and Christopher Kost from the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (IPTDP) highlight the benefits of cycling and the challenges it faces, such as the lack of proper cycling lanes and the need for urban road design that accommodates bicycles. The article also touches on the cultural perception of cycling in Africa and the potential health and environmental benefits of cycling. It calls for political will and local authority action to make cycling safer and promote sustainable urban mobility.

The article discusses the increase in bicycle usage in cities worldwide as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focus on Nairobi, Kenya. Urban planner Cyprine Odada and Christopher Kost from the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (IPTDP) highlight the benefits of cycling and the challenges it faces, such as the lack of proper cycling lanes and the need for urban road design that accommodates bicycles. The article also touches on the cultural perception of cycling in Africa and the potential health and environmental benefits of cycling. It calls for political will and local authority action to make cycling safer and promote sustainable urban mobility.