A Kenyan government agency is facilitating access to science education for students from low-income families by producing solar-powered mobile laboratories. These mobile labs offer a more affordable alternative to constructing permanent facilities. The report is by Victoria Amunga, with camera work from Jimmy Makhulo in Nairobi.

A Kenyan journalist, Victoria Amunga, reports on a publication called Woman Kenya Network, which focuses exclusively on issues affecting women. The publication aims to help women tell their stories in a society that often downplays their issues.

Kenyan lawmakers are demanding more transparency regarding a $5 billion loan agreement with the Export-Import Bank of China that financed the Standard Gauge Railway. The partial release of the contract by Transport Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has raised concerns about the extent of legal authority granted to China and the potential use of public facilities as collateral. Critics argue that the non-disclosure agreement is unlawful and that key details are still missing. Lawmakers and analysts are calling for the full disclosure of the contract to ensure public accountability.

Kenyan developers have created a mobile phone application that aids in preventing phone theft, recovering stolen phones, and protecting data. The app has received positive feedback from the Kenyan police for its effectiveness in safeguarding smartphones.

Clashes between police and protesters in Sierra Leone have resulted in 13 deaths and over 100 arrests during a curfew. The protests, primarily in the northeast region of Makeni, were driven by anger over the rising cost of living. Public and private properties were vandalized, and three police stations were burned. As of Friday, normalcy is reportedly returning, with banks and offices reopening. A 2020 World Bank report highlights that 80% of Sierra Leone's population lives in poverty, predominantly in rural areas.

Authorities in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are searching for hundreds of inmates who escaped from Kakwanguru central prison following an attack by gunmen. Five people, including two policemen, were killed during the jailbreak in Butembo. Only 58 of 874 inmates remained after the attack, with police recapturing about 50 escapees. The Allied Democratic Forces rebel group is blamed for the jailbreak, similar to a 2020 incident in Beni. The escapees are considered dangerous criminals, mostly jailed for murder and aiding terror groups.

Kenyan architects attribute the collapse of a six-story building in Kiambu County, which resulted in five deaths, to corruption and unregulated construction practices. They highlight the compromised quality of buildings due to unscrupulous dealings and the high costs of professional engagement. The lengthy construction approval process and the tendency to bypass professional services exacerbate the issue. Experts call for increased professionalism to address the problem, noting that some owners of collapsed buildings have faced legal consequences.

Longhorn Publishers, based in Kenya, is leveraging its LoHo Learning platform, which utilizes Artificial Intelligence, to provide students of varying financial backgrounds with affordable access to quality educational materials. This initiative allows students to save on the costs typically associated with purchasing textbooks.

Media outlets are increasingly adopting solutions journalism to engage audiences more deeply, particularly on issues like climate change. This approach, highlighted in a report from Nairobi, Kenya, by Victoria Amunga, aims to provide a more proactive and in-depth perspective. The story underscores the competition between traditional media and social media for audience attention.

Kenya's wildlife authorities have launched the Mammal Atlas Kenya (Makenya) app to help track and protect rare mammals. The app allows users to log sightings, upload photos, and provide details about mammal behavior and locations. Developed by the National Museums of Kenya and the Mammal Committee of Nature Kenya, the app aims to engage the public in conservation efforts amid challenges posed by climate change and human activities. Since its launch, users have reported over 2,500 sightings. Experts emphasize the app's importance in identifying and managing endangered species, contributing to broader conservation initiatives.

The Kenyan government is establishing shelters to support survivors of human trafficking, aiming to aid their reintegration into society, assist in their recovery from trauma, and facilitate the prosecution of traffickers.

The Kenyan government is establishing shelters to support survivors of human trafficking, aiming to aid their recovery, help them rebuild their lives, and facilitate the prosecution of traffickers. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to addressing human trafficking and providing necessary support to victims.

Awanle Ayiboro, a painter in Ghana, is leveraging her art to campaign against child marriage, drawing from her own experience of being forced into marriage as a teenager. The campaign aims to dispel misconceptions about the development of girls and young women. The report is by Victoria Amunga from Accra, with camera work by Senanu Tord.

Kenya's wildlife authorities have introduced a free mobile app called Mammal Atlas Kenya (Makenya) that enables users to track and log sightings of rare mammals, aiding in their protection. The app allows users to identify and record the location of wild mammals, contributing to conservation efforts.

Burn Manufacturing, a Kenyan company, produces the “Kuniokoa” cooking stove, which translates to

Kenya's parliament has proposed legislation to establish a local framework for buying and selling carbon credits, aimed at reducing carbon emissions. The report includes a case study of a Kenyan manufacturer producing cooking stoves that contribute to lower emissions.

A Nairobi radio station has gained a loyal following by broadcasting in Sheng, a street language that combines elements of English, Swahili, and other languages. The station's unique approach has resonated with listeners in Kenya's capital.

Kenyan police used tear gas to disperse opposition-led protesters in Nairobi and other towns who were demonstrating against recent tax hikes, including a doubling of the fuel tax. The protests, which saw thousands of participants, were described as peaceful by Amnesty International Kenya, which criticized the arrests of demonstrators. Opposition leader Raila Odinga called for the protests, while President William Ruto defended the tax increases as necessary for debt repayment and job creation.

Doctors Without Borders (MSF) warns that a cholera outbreak at Kenya's Dadaab refugee camp is nearing epidemic levels, exacerbated by poor water and sanitation conditions. The camp, housing over 300,000 refugees primarily from Somalia, has seen its population swell due to prolonged drought, straining resources. Despite cholera vaccinations by Kenya's Ministry of Health, the outbreak persists. MSF emphasizes the urgent need for sanitation improvements to curb the disease. The Kenyan government's past attempts to close the camp, citing security concerns, have been met with resistance from the United Nations.

Wildlife conservationists in Kenya are alarmed by the recent killing of 10 lions, which they say undermines efforts to protect the species. The lions were killed by herders after attacking livestock near Amboseli National Park. Experts highlight the challenges posed by habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict, noting that a significant portion of wildlife lives outside protected areas. The Kenyan Wildlife Service has increased surveillance to monitor lion movements, though officials believe the actual number of lions killed may be higher.

The killing of 10 lions in Kenya over the past week has raised concerns among wildlife conservationists, who argue that these incidents undermine efforts to protect the dwindling lion population. The lions were killed by herders after attacking livestock near Amboseli National Park. Conservationists highlight the challenges posed by habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict, with experts calling for better management of protected areas. The Kenyan Wildlife Service has increased surveillance around Amboseli to monitor lion movements, acknowledging that the actual number of lions killed may be higher.

Kenyan President William Ruto, speaking in Nairobi, emphasized that East African leaders will not permit military rule in Sudan, highlighting the region's commitment to democratic governance. Despite previous failures in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the East African Community (EAC) is seen as having a chance to persuade Sudan's military factions to cease fighting. The conflict, which began on April 15, has resulted in 400 deaths and displaced over 800,000 people. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development has agreed to send regional leaders to broker a cease-fire, with South Sudan's President Salva Kiir playing a key role due to his country's reliance on Sudan for oil exports.

Former Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok urges the international community to maintain pressure on the warring factions in Sudan to achieve a lasting truce. Speaking at the 2023 Mo Ibrahim Governance weekend in Kenya, Hamdok emphasized the need for a unified international approach to end the military conflict. U.N. Sudan envoy Volker Perthes called for adherence to the cease-fire, while both military factions defended their positions. The conflict has resulted in over 500 deaths and more than 4,000 injuries, with accusations against the Rapid Support Forces for raiding homes and stealing possessions.

General Jeff Nyagah, the Kenyan commander of the East African Community regional force in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, has resigned due to security threats and systematic frustrations. He cited surveillance and non-payment of administrative costs by the DRC government as key issues. The mission, established to combat insecurity in eastern DRC, includes troops from Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, and Uganda, and aims to curb violence and displacement caused by clashes with M23 rebels.

General Jeff Nyagah, the Kenyan commander of the East African Community regional force in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, has resigned due to security threats and frustrations. He cited surveillance and lack of support from the DRC government, including unpaid administrative costs and suspended communication channels. The EAC mission, established to combat violence in eastern Congo, faces challenges as it deals with the M23 rebels and the displacement of civilians.

Kenya is leveraging the launch of its first operational observation satellite to enhance space education and science through school space clubs. The 3U nanosatellite was launched on April 15 aboard the SpaceX Falcon Force base in the U.S., marking a significant step in Kenya's space exploration efforts.

The disruption of Ukrainian agriculture due to Russia's invasion is causing commodity shortages in African countries like Kenya. The U.S. government, through USAID, is collaborating with Kenyan agricultural companies to strengthen the industry and reduce external shocks. USAID's mission director in Kenya emphasized the importance of new technologies and local production. Kenyan fertilizer producer Sanergy, supported by USAID, is set to double its organic fertilizer production. The U.S. announced $5.1 million in grants to agricultural companies at an American Chamber of Commerce summit in Nairobi. U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, during her visit to Africa, reiterated America's commitment to increasing investment and spurring economic growth in the region.

Kenyan economists believe newly-arrived wheat imports from Ukraine could alleviate hunger in drought-affected areas and reduce high food prices. Thirty thousand tons of wheat arrived under the U.N.-brokered Black Sea Grain Initiative, which Russia may exit within 60 days. The initiative aims to ensure Ukrainian food exports reach global markets, but disruptions from the Russian invasion have caused significant shortages and high prices. Economists stress the need for African countries to reduce reliance on imports by boosting local production. The U.N. World Food Program reports that food shipment disruptions have left 345 million people facing food insecurity.

Kenyan economists believe that the arrival of 30,000 tons of Ukrainian wheat could alleviate hunger in drought-affected regions and reduce high food prices. The shipment is part of the 'Grain from Ukraine' program and the U.N.-brokered Black Sea Grain Initiative, which Russia has threatened to leave. The disruption of Ukrainian agricultural exports due to the Russian invasion has caused shortages and price hikes in African countries dependent on these imports. Economists stress the need for African nations to develop self-sufficiency to avoid being impacted by external events. The U.N. World Food Program highlights that the conflict has contributed to widespread food insecurity.

Diana Ayoo, a Kenyan entrepreneur, established Ayira’s Neuro-Soul Café to create a welcoming environment for individuals with cognitive conditions such as autism. The café also aims to provide employment and education to increase awareness and understanding of neurodiversity.

Kenya has launched a campaign to vaccinate over 400,000 children against malaria, a disease that claims over 12,000 Kenyan lives annually. The vaccine, first piloted in Kenya, Malawi, and Ghana in 2019, has shown effectiveness, reducing malaria prevalence from 27% to 19% in endemic zones. Despite these gains, the emergence of a new mosquito vector, Anopheles Stephensi, poses a threat to progress. The World Health Organization has highlighted the risk of increased mosquito-borne diseases due to global warming. Kenya continues to implement interventions such as mosquito nets, spraying, and habitat control, with the hope that vaccination will contribute to eradicating malaria.

Kenya's tourism ministry reported an 83% increase in earnings last year, recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Tourism revenue reached over $2.1 billion, up from $1.16 billion in 2021. International tourist numbers grew to over 1.4 million, with significant visitors from the U.S., Uganda, and the U.K. The tourism sector, accounting for 10.4% of Kenya's economy, saw a substantial recovery, with most of the 2 million jobs lost during the pandemic now restored.

A Kenyan mobile application, Snark Health, allows users to pay for medical services by selling their personal data through blockchain technology. The app's Hippocratic Coins have attracted over 300 doctors and 4,000 users, addressing the high cost of health care in Africa. Victoria Amunga reports from Nairobi, Kenya, with camera work by Jimmy Makhulo.

A Kenyan court has sentenced former police officer Fredrick Leliman to death for the 2016 murders of human rights lawyer Willie Kimani, his client Josephat Mwenda, and their taxi driver Joseph Muiruri. Two other former police officers, Stephen Cheburet and Sylvia Wanjohi, received long prison sentences, while informant Peter Ngugi was sentenced to 20 years in jail. The case highlighted the issue of extrajudicial killings by police in Kenya, with President William Ruto calling for an end to such practices.

Kenyan prosecutors have charged Jackton Odhiambo, a suspected lover of LGBTQ activist Edwin Kipruto (also known as Edwin Chiloba), with his murder. Chiloba's body was discovered in a metal box, initially raising concerns of a hate crime. However, investigators have linked the murder to a love triangle rather than a hate crime. Odhiambo, a freelance photographer, appeared in court but has not yet entered a plea. Other suspects were released due to lack of evidence. The case has drawn international attention, with the U.S. State Department urging a thorough investigation.

The United States has announced a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the arrest of Mohamoud Abdi Aden, the alleged leader of the 2019 attack on Nairobi's Dusit D2 hotel complex, which resulted in 21 deaths. The U.S. State Department has designated Aden as a terrorist. U.S. Ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman stated the reward aims for Aden's arrest and conviction, as well as information on others involved in the attack. This is part of a series of U.S. reward offers targeting al-Shabab leaders. Security analyst Daniel Omondi views these rewards as a sign of the U.S.'s proactive role in counterterrorism in the region.

Kenya's Ministry of Agriculture is defending the use of pesticides to kill invasive quelea birds that are destroying rice crops. The ministry claims the pesticide is safe and necessary, while environmentalists argue for alternative methods to control the bird population. The quelea birds have caused significant crop damage, leading to economic losses. The debate highlights the tension between agricultural needs and environmental protection.

Kenyan President William Ruto has ordered investigations into extrajudicial killings by police, including a case where bodies were found in a river. Rights groups and activists, including Amnesty International Kenya and Human Rights Watch, have welcomed the move but emphasize the need for comprehensive police reforms. Critics point out Ruto's lack of action on the issue during his tenure as vice president. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reported at least 94 people were killed by police in 2022.

Kenyan President William Ruto has ordered investigations into extrajudicial killings by police, a move welcomed by rights groups. Ruto's directive includes probing a recent incident where dozens of bodies were found in a river. Critics note Ruto's previous silence on the issue as vice president and emphasize the need for police reforms. Amnesty International Kenya and Human Rights Watch highlight the importance of concrete steps to address the problem. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reports at least 94 extrajudicial police killings in 2022.

Kenya's health ministry has launched a digital service called 'Nena Na Binti' to address the country's high teenage pregnancy rates. The app and toll-free number provide reproductive health information and counseling to Kenyan teenagers, attracting over 5,000 users. Kenya has the world's third-highest rate of teenage pregnancy.

Kenyan President William Ruto has deployed special police units, including the General Service Unit and Rapid Deployment Unit, to Nairobi following a surge in violent crimes. The intervention aims to enhance security surveillance in the capital. However, security experts argue that this approach may be unsustainable and insufficient for addressing urban crime. The national police service has reported an increase in muggings and stabbings, prompting a public warning about crime hotspots in the city.

Kenyan lawmakers are calling for full disclosure of a $5 billion loan agreement with the Export-Import Bank of China for the Standard Gauge Railway, criticizing the partial release of documents by Transport Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen. The released pages suggest excessive legal concessions to China, including dispute resolution in Beijing and a secrecy clause. Analyst Javas Bigambo deems the non-disclosure illegal under Kenyan procurement laws. Concerns are raised about potential public assets used as collateral, with MP John Kiare highlighting rumors of government institutions at stake. MP Makali Mulu criticizes Murkomen for not disclosing the entire contract. The railway, spanning 600 kilometers from Mombasa to Naivasha, is underutilized and hasn't met economic expectations, while China holds a significant portion of Kenya's external debt.

Kenya Airways is threatening disciplinary action against pilots participating in a strike by taking sick leave, which the company deems illegal. CEO Allan Kilavuka stated that the strike violates a collective bargaining agreement and pilots could face dismissal. The strike, which began Saturday over pensions and salaries, has led to the cancellation of 47 flights and stranded approximately 12,000 passengers, although 2,000 have since departed. The pilots' union, KALPA, has been summoned to court. Kenya Airways, which serves over 4 million passengers annually, has been experiencing financial difficulties and is now hiring new pilots, potentially escalating the dispute.

Kenyan President William Ruto has called for an end to extrajudicial killings by police, emphasizing their illegality and unconstitutionality. This follows the trial of five police officers for the murders of two Indian nationals and their taxi driver. Rights groups like Amnesty International advocate for broader inquiries into police abuses. Investigations are also ongoing into the killing of Pakistani journalist Arshadi Sharif by Kenyan police. The director of public prosecution announced charges against 12 senior police officers for crimes against humanity related to a 2017 post-election crackdown.

The trial of four former Kenyan police officers charged with the murder of two Indian nationals and their Kenyan driver has commenced in Nairobi. The victims, involved in President William Ruto's electoral campaign, were found dead in a forest. The officers were part of a Special Services Unit, recently disbanded by Ruto for alleged extrajudicial killings and disappearances. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority is investigating the unit's involvement in over 100 disappearances this year. The accused face charges of murder, abuse of office, and conspiracy, with potential life imprisonment if convicted.

The United States has surpassed Uganda as the largest buyer of Kenyan goods, with exports to the U.S. reaching approximately $321 million between January and June 2022. This shift is attributed to increased sales of Kenyan clothing apparel and a deepening bilateral relationship, including more direct flights to New York. Uganda's imports from Kenya have decreased as local manufacturing in Uganda grows. Kenyan economists highlight the strong U.S.-Kenya relations, bolstered by the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) and the new government under President William Ruto, who is keen on expanding American partnerships. The U.S. is enhancing its presence in Africa, with plans for collaboration in agriculture, digital trade, and customs procedures.

A Kenyan-manufactured breathing device for premature babies, known as a bubble continuous positive airway pressure system (bCPAP), is being used to save newborns in Ukraine amidst the Russian invasion, which has damaged hospitals and caused power outages. The device, produced by Revital Health Care and the Vayu Global Health Foundation, operates without electricity and has been acknowledged by the World Health Organization for its use in at least 25 Ukrainian facilities. The bCPAP, which costs about $400 in Kenya, is also used in over 20 countries and is crucial for controlling infant mortality, especially in low- and middle-income countries where nearly 1 million infants die annually from respiratory issues.

A Kenyan-manufactured breathing device, the bubble continuous positive airway pressure system (bCPAP), is being used to save premature babies in conflict-affected countries, including Ukraine. The device, which operates without electricity, has been crucial in hospitals and clinics where power cuts are frequent due to war. Developed by Revital Health Care and the Vayu Global Health Foundation, the bCPAP needs only a pressured oxygen source to function. It has been acknowledged by the World Health Organization and is currently used in at least 25 facilities across Ukraine. The invention aims to reduce infant mortality by providing a non-invasive way to support newborns in respiratory distress, and is available in over 20 countries.

Kenya's recent elections marked a shift towards more diverse leadership, with a record number of women winning seats in the National Assembly and Senate, and seven women securing county governor positions. Additionally, Martin Wanyonyi became the first person with albinism to win a competitive election to parliament. Political analysts, including Mark Bichache and Bina Maseno, view these developments as signs of the public's growing acceptance of female leaders and candidates with disabilities. Vimal Shah of Mkenya Daima praised the nearly 2,000 women who ran for office. The election results are seen as a positive step towards diversity in Kenyan politics.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed concern over a U.N. report alleging Rwanda's support for M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo. During his visit to Kinshasa, Blinken pledged U.S. support for Congo, emphasizing investment and sustainable mining practices. He also raised concerns about the environmental impact of Congo's oil and gas block auctions. Blinken plans to address the issue with Rwandan officials during his visit to Rwanda.

At least 13 civilians and six police officers were killed during anti-government protests in Sierra Leone, primarily in the capital Freetown and two other towns. Protestors, angered by a 40% increase in the cost of living under President Julia Maada's government, clashed with police, leading to fatalities. Sierra Leone's Vice President Mohammed Juldeh Jalloh labeled the protests unauthorized, while rights groups, including Amnesty International, called for investigations and urged the protection of peaceful assembly rights.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed concern over a UN report alleging Rwanda's support for M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo. During his visit to the DRC, Blinken highlighted the issue and promised to address it in Rwanda. The Rwandan government has denied the accusations. Blinken assured the DRC of U.S. support, particularly in responsible mining practices, and discussed concerns about the environmental impact of oil and gas auctions in the Congo Basin. Blinken is set to conclude his Africa tour with a visit to Rwanda.

Rights groups in Africa are criticizing the Rwandan High Court for sentencing Paul Rusesabagina to 25 years in prison on terrorism charges. Rusesabagina, known for his role in saving lives during the Rwandan genocide as depicted in the film 'Hotel Rwanda', denies the charges. Critics, including Bahima Macumi, argue that the trial was unfair. Human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have highlighted concerns over fair trial violations, including Rusesabagina's unlawful rendition to Rwanda and lack of judicial independence. Despite the Rwandan government's assertion of a fair trial, international observers and the U.S State Department have expressed doubts about the trial's fairness and the verdict's legitimacy. Rusesabagina has the option to appeal, but there is skepticism about the impartiality of the Rwandan judiciary.