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Kenya
Saturday, October 4, 2025
Home Blog Page 1192

Airlines double fares as Christmas holiday nears

Domestic airfares have more than doubled ahead of Christmas on increased demand with some routes recording full bookings in the days to December 25.

Jambojet ticket prices for flights originating from Nairobi to Mombasa and Kisumu have topped the Sh20,000 mark on tickets sold in recent days from lows of Sh8,300 to Sh11,000 during the weekends in low seasons.

As of Friday, flights to Mombasa were fully booked until Saturday and available seats starting Sunday were going for Sh19,500.

“We have seen an increase in bookings, it is after all the festive season, it happens during this time,” said Mr Karanja Ndegwa, the chief executive officer of Jambojet.

The first plane out of Nairobi left as early as 06:30 am for the one-and-a-quarter-hour trip to Mombasa while the last flight left the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 21:30 hours to 22:45 hours.

For the Saturday night flights out of Nairobi for Mombasa, only nine seats were yet to be booked by 3 pm Friday afternoon going for Sh19,500 while all Sunday trips were fully booked.

Only one seat was yet to be booked for the 08:25 am flight to Mombasa on Monday, while Tuesday and Wednesday, which is Christmas day, were fully booked.

Last year, Jambojet was charging Sh12,200 for a one-way ticket to Mombasa on December 23rd from Sh8,200 a month earlier.

Flights to Kisumu from the capital city typically go for between Sh6,000 to Sh8,000 but in the days leading up to Christmas, charges have gone up to Sh19,500 all fully booked until December 26th.

Only two seats for the Saturday morning flight were yet to be bought for Sh19,500 on Friday.

All flights from Nairobi to Eldoret were fully booked until Boxing Day, going for Sh7,000.

The move that comes as a big boost to the airlines’ earnings is likely to inconvenience thousands of travellers planning to spend their holiday in Mombasa.

Domestic outbound flights from Nairobi to various towns including Mombasa, Kisumu and Eldoret are fully booked ahead of the festivities.

Skyward Express’s saver, value and plus packages were fully booked on December 20th except for the Sky Elite package going for Sh15,780 to Mombasa.

The quoted fares are based on Friday’s bookings and are likely to continue rising as the Christmas holiday approaches.

The prices on all routes are set to come down from Christmas Day and after the New Year celebrations as the number of those seeking to travel reduces significantly.

Cyclone Chido kills 94 people in Mozambique

Cyclone Chido has killed 94 people in Mozambique since it made landfallin the east African country last week, local authorities have said.

The country’s National Institute of Risk and Disaster Management (INGD) said 768 people were injured and more than 622,000 people affected by the natural disaster in some capacity.

Chido hit Mozambique on 15 December with winds of 260 km/h (160mph) and 250mm of rainfall in the first 24 hours.

The same cyclone had first wreaked havoc in the French Indian Ocean territory of Mayotte, before moving on to Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe.

In Mozambique, the storm struck northern provinces that are regularly battered by cyclones. It first reached Cabo Delgado, then travelled further inland to Niassa and Nampula.

The country’s INGD said the cyclone impacted the education and health sector. More than 109,793 students were affected, with school infrastructure severely damaged.

Some 52 sanitary units were damaged, the INGD said, which further risks access to essential health services. This is exacerbated further in areas where access to healthcare facilities were already limited before the cyclone.

Daniel Chapo, leader of Mozambique’s ruling party, told local media the government is mobilising support on “all levels” in response to the cyclone.

Speaking during a visit to Cabo Delgado on Sunday, one of the most badly affected areas, Chapo said the government is working alongside the INGD to ensure those affected in the provinces of Mecúfi, Nampula, Memba and Niassa can rebuild.

In Mayotte, Chido was the worst storm to hit the archipelago in 90 years, leaving tens of thousands of people reeling from the catastrophe.

The interior ministry in its latest update confirmed 35 people had died.

Mayotte’s prefect previously told local media the death toll could rise significantly once the damage was fully assessed, warning it would “definitely be several hundred” and could reach thousands.

More than 1,300 officers were deployed to support the local population.

One week on, many residents still lack basic necessities, while running water is making a gradual return to the territory’s capital. The ministry has advised people to boil water for three minutes before consuming it.

Around 100 tonnes of equipment are being delivered each day, the ministry said, as an air bridge was built between Mayotte, Reunion and mainland France.

In a statement on Friday, interior minister Bruno Retailleau said 80 tonnes of food and 50 tonnes of water had been distributed across Mayotte that day.

A visualised graphic shows the path of Cyclone Chido over Mayotte, Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe, with dots showing destroyed and damaged sites on two islands in the Mayotte archipelago

Tropical cyclones are characterised by very high wind speeds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges, which are short-term rises to sea-levels. This often causes widespread damage and flooding.

The cyclone, the INGD said, “highlights once again, the vulnerability of social infrastructures to climate change and the need for resilient planning to mitigate future impacts”.

Assessing the exact influence of climate change on individual tropical cyclones can be challenging due to the complexity of these storm systems. But rising temperatures do affect these storms in measurable ways.

The UN’s climate body, the IPCC, previously said there is “high confidence” that humans have contributed to increases in precipitation associated with tropical cyclones, and “medium confidence” that humans have contributed to the higher probability of a tropical cyclone being more intense.

Soweto’s ‘Lion King’ on his return for Mufasa

South African composer Lebo M, renowned for creating the distinctive opening chant of The Lion King’s Circle of Life, rose from his life in exile in the US to legendary status and is now back with his signature sound for the latest instalment in the franchise, Mufasa.

His unforgettable Zulu cry, “Nants ingonyama, bagithi Baba”, meaning “here comes a lion, father”, is a stand-out moment in the original film.

Now, he is bringing his signature sound to Mufasa with a new song.

Directed by Barry Jenkins, the film serves as a prequel, exploring orphaned Mufasa’s journey as he faces hardships and tries to find his place in the world.

The story resonates with Lebo M’s own life.

Born in 1964, at the height of apartheid, the racist system of oppression in South Africa, he grew up in Soweto, a black township on the outskirts of Johannesburg.

He told the BBC Africa Daily podcast that he came from “the poorest neighbourhood and the poorest family”.

But despite the circumstances he was born into, his talent and love for singing was apparent.

In 1979, at 16, he was forced into exile after travelling to neighbouring Lesotho to perform. He had gone without an ID or passport and was denied re-entry to South Africa.

He settled in Lesotho for a while before moving to the US to attend school and later settled in Los Angeles.

This is where his career skyrocketed and his Lion King journey began.

Lebo M said he is proud he contributed to a project like the Lion King, “that represents Africa in the highest quality” and considers it one of his great successes.

But despite being a “major part of the original DNA” of The Lion King by conceptualising and composing the music, Lebo M feels he has not received as much financial success from it as some of his peers, largely due to his background.

“I’m forever a refugee, I’m forever an immigrant from Africa even in the business room,” he told the BBC.

He said at the time he did not have lawyers to ensure he got his fair share.

Even now, three decades deep into his career, Lebo M said he often finds he is the only black person in the room.

“I don’t think it’s because of tokenism,” he explained, adding that his experience speaks for itself.

In addition to working on The Lion King franchise, he has also composed music for The Woman King, The Power of One, and Congo.

“I don’t feel unwelcome, I don’t feel intimidated, I don’t feel like I don’t belong. But I know if I didn’t do what I do I wouldn’t be in that setting,” he said.

Despite growing up under apartheid, and being affected by racist ideology, he said he never experienced direct racism until he got to the US.

“I was born into apartheid. That means, I don’t know what it is like to be in a ‘multiracial environment’ until I got to America,” he said.

Now 64, Lebo M reflects on his legacy and the lessons he learned from the musical legends he met during his exile, like Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba – two pillars of South Africa’s musical history.

He shared that despite their immense success, their financial legacy did not match their global stature, especially toward the end of their lives.

This is a common thread among many African musicians who, unfortunately, died poor.

Although he has learned from their mistakes, he acknowledges that success is not just about commercial gain, but about “personal fulfilment,” which he has found with the Lion King.

Mozambique tense ahead of ruling on disputed election

There is a tense atmosphere in Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, as the country awaits a court ruling on the outcome of October’s contested presidential election result, which when first announced sparked weeks of deadly protests.

Venâncio Mondlane, who came second according to the official count, has been calling on his supporters for much of the past two months to demonstrate against what he said was a rigged vote.

Mondlane, himself, is in exile having fled the country accusing the police of threatening behaviour not long after two of his aides were shot dead in October.

In a weekend social media message, he said there could be a “new popular uprising” if the result was not overturned.

The usual hustle and bustle that characterises the greater Maputo area on workdays and during the festive season has been replaced by silence and empty roads – a scene that has become common in this region since the popular demonstrations began on 21 October.

In what appears to be preparation for this latest phase of protests, some demonstrators have already begun blocking roads and preventing vehicle traffic in Maputo.

The Constitutional Court is due to begin announcing its ruling at 15:00 (13:00 GMT).

Earlier this month, Mondlane told the BBC there was “no way” he could accept the election result, in which Frelimo’s candidate Daniel Chapo won with 71% of the vote.

The 50-year-old evangelical pastor Mondlane, who stood as an independent, received 20%.

The electoral commission denied Mondlane’s allegation that the poll was rigged in favour of Frelimo, which has have been in power since independence 49 years ago.

But international election observers have said the elections were flawed, pointing to doctored numbers and other irregularities during the counting process.

The weeks-long demonstrations have led to violent encounters with the police and at least 110 people have been killed, local monitoring group Plataforma Decide said.

It is alleged that many of those who have died have been killed by security forces, but a police commander Bernadino Rafael had previously told the BBC that his officers had been defending themselves after coming under attack.

In a message on Sunday to the largely Catholic country, Pope Francis called for dialogue and the pursuit of the common good to prevail.

Mondlane has been speaking to the outgoing President, Filipe Nyusi, but it is not clear what the outcome of the talks has been.

Former CS Mithika Linturi Criticizes Ruto Over Marginalization of Meru Community

Former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi has accused President William Ruto’s administration of sidelining the Meru community in key political appointments and decision-making processes.

Linturi, who was among CS’s fired after the GenZ protests in June, claimed that despite their strong support during the 2022 general elections, the community has been overlooked and disrespected by the current government.

Speaking on Sunday, Linturi expressed frustration, stating that the Ameru people deserve recognition for their contributions to Ruto’s victory. He emphasized that the community’s support, amounting to 800,000 votes, should not be ignored.

“We are tired of being despised and sidelined. Our 800,000 votes must count. We supported them, we voted for them, but now they treat us as if we don’t matter,” he said.

Linturi vowed to advocate for the Ameru community’s rightful place in national leadership, promising to work tirelessly to restore their influence.

“We will work day and night to restore the glory of Meru. Even if they despise us, we will stand firm and demand respect,” he added.

He also noted that the community has learned valuable lessons from past political decisions and would ensure their future support is more strategic to secure meaningful representation.

Linturi’s remarks follow a recent Cabinet reshuffle by President Ruto, which saw prominent figures from former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration appointed to strategic positions.

The reshuffle has been described by State House as an effort to optimize government performance under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

Among the appointees is Mutahi Kagwe, a former Health Cabinet Secretary, who has been nominated to lead the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, replacing Dr. Andrew Karanja, who was nominated as Kenya’s Ambassador to Brazil.

Lee Kinyanjui, the former Nakuru Governor, has been appointed Cabinet Secretary for Investments, Trade, and Industry, while former Kiambu Governor William Kabogo has been nominated as Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy.

Kabogo replaces Margaret Nyambura Ndung’u, who has been named High Commissioner to Ghana. Additionally, Kipchumba Murkomen, formerly the Sports Cabinet Secretary, has been appointed as Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, taking over from Kithure Kindiki, who has been elevated to Deputy President.

State House Chief of Staff Felix Koskei explained that the reshuffle is part of a broader effort to realign ministries, state departments, and the Foreign Service for improved service delivery.

He said the changes reflect President Ruto’s commitment to addressing the needs of Kenyans by enhancing government operations.

The reshuffle has, however, sparked discontent among some communities, including the Ameru, who feel excluded from the new appointments.

Linturi’s comments highlight growing frustration within key support bases, raising questions about the political implications of these decisions.

While the government has emphasized the strategic importance of the reshuffle in addressing national priorities such as food security, economic development, and digital transformation, concerns over inclusivity continue to dominate discussions.

Police summon owners of vehicles caught driving recklessly on Nyeri-Nairobi Highway

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has vowed to take action following a video circulating online of two 14-seater matatus being driven recklessly along the busy Nairobi-Nyeri highway.

The disturbing video showed the matatus being driven in the middle of the road as they kept on swerving in turns, with passengers cheering on while blowing whistles.

In the video which has sparked uproar among motorists and Kenyans in general, some passengers were also seen hanging on the vehicles’ windows from both sides.

The video was recorded and shared by concerned motorists who in turn shared it with NTSA.

In a statement on Monday, December 23, 2024, the road safety authority condemned the act and termed it unacceptable, adding that the owners of the vehicles captured in the video have been summoned.

“This is unacceptable. The owners of the PSVs have been summoned. We will take action,” said NTSA.

The National Police Service (NPS) Spokesperson Dr. Resila Onyango on her part said that the Police have taken appropriate action on the matatu’s crew as a probe begins.

She said that the owners of the vehicles have been traced and summoned to avail the vehicles and drivers at the Makuyu traffic base on Monday for questioning.

“We have now traced both owners and summoned them to report to RTEO Central,” she said.

Ministry of Health Warns Kenyans against Taking Uninspected Meat During Christmas

The Ministry of Health has cautioned Kenyans against consumption of uninspected meat during the festivities.

In an advisory issued on Monday, December 23, the Ministry also encouraged Kenyans to avoid eating meat sources from dead animals given the health risks.

On the other hand, Kenyans were advised to separate raw and cooked food to avoid contamination.

“Avoid eating meat that has not been inspected by certified officers or sourced from dead animals. Keep raw and cooked foods separate to prevent contamination, and use clean, treated, or boiled water for cooking and drinking,” read the advisory in part.

“Wash hands frequently with soap and running water, and ensure all food is cooked thoroughly and served hot. Refrigerate leftovers promptly and reheat them properly before consuming.”

The Ministry also projected increased activities near water bodies during the festive season, further cautioning Kenyans about water safety.

For instance, the government cautioned against engaging in swimming while under the influence.

Parents were also advised to be vigilant while taking their children for swimming activities.

“Balance your social commitments to avoid stress, and ensure you get sufficient rest, with at least eight hours of sleep daily. Stay physically active and avoid excessive alcohol consumption or smoking,” the Ministry added.

“Respect others’ choices regarding alcohol, and stay connected with family and friends to nurture emotional well-being.”

Former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti’s Son Dies

The family of former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti is mourning following the death of their son, Eric Mutugi.

In an update on Sunday, December 22, the former Senator disclosed that his son passed away at MP Shah Hospital after a short illness.

“I am very sad. Very sad! I lost my beloved son, Eric Mutugi, at MP Shah Hospital yesterday after a short illness. We canceled our family Christmas festivities. Please join my family in funeral plans for my beloved son. God bless his soul in heaven,” Kivuti wrote on Facebook.

On Monday, December 23, President William Ruto sent his message of condolences to Kivuti and his family following the tragic loss.

“I join the family of Hon. Lenny Kivuti in mourning the tragic loss of his beloved son, Eric Mutugi. I pray for the Kivuti family during this immensely difficult time. Eric’s light and promise have been taken far too soon, May God grant the family and friends strength, comfort, and peace,” Ruto said.

Mbeere South MP Nebart Muriuki said, “It is with profound sadness and pain that I have learnt the untimely demise of Erick Mutugi kivuti, son to former Senator Lenny Kivuti and Mrs. Hirder Kivuti after a short illness.” 

He added, “My condolences and that of my family and on behalf of Mbeere South constituents to Kivuti’s family and friends. It is painful to loose a son for any parent. May the soul of Mutugi rest in eternal peace.” 

Kivuti and his wife, Hildah Kanini Nkiria, have four children, namely Murugi, Brian Mugane, Allan Ngari and Kirika Kivuti. 

Several people feared dead in Narok-Mai Mahiu road crash

At least seven people have been killed in two separate road accidents in Narok. 

One accident occurred in the Maltauro area near Duka Moja on the Narok-Mai Mahiu road at about 10 am today. 

The accident occurred when the driver of a lorry descending the Nairagie-Enkare escarpment lost control of the vehicle, colliding with multiple vehicles, including a bus and private cars.

According to a police report, the fatalities occurred following two separate crashes at the same spot involving six vehicles and a motorcycle.

The first crash happened when the tyre of a trailer heading towards Mai Mahiu burst resulting in it crashing with a Premio car, a bus and a matatu. Three of the matatu passengers succumbed.

Shortly after, another trailer from the same direction arrived at the scene at high speed, colliding with a Prado whose two occupants died instantly and one died later at the hospital.

The trailer also knocked down a motorcycle killing two pillion passengers. All the deceased and the injured have been transported to the Narok County Referral Hospital. The number of injured is yet to be confirmed.

Police recover drugs as 78 teens arrested at a Kisumu house party

Police arrested 78 teenagers on Saturday, December 21, for allegedly smoking marijuana at a house party in Kisumu’s Mountain View estate, which had over 100 youths in attendance.

Kisumu Central Sub County Commander Peter Mulai confirmed the arrests, stating that the 68 boys and 10 girls, all minors aged 18 and below, were smoking cannabis when officers arrived at the scene.

“We found the teenagers sitting in groups, smoking bhang in a house, the owners of which are still unidentified,” Mulai said.

Some of the minors fled the scene by scaling the wall as the others were being arrested. The detained teenagers were taken to the Obung’a police post. Authorities acted on a tip-off from a concerned neighbor who noticed the large number of youths arriving at the house and the loud music coming from the venue.

Further investigation revealed that the party had been organized by one of the teenagers living in the house. “We are informed that the minors received an invitation via Instagram from the party organizer, who had anticipated over 200 attendees,” Mulai explained.

However, the organizer was among more than 30 individuals who managed to escape by jumping over the perimeter wall. Mulai added, “We have started investigating the social media platform used to mobilize the youths and are tracking the whereabouts of the party organizers.”

At the police station, all the minors were reprimanded, and their parents were later contacted to pick them up. A junior officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, shared that many parents were shocked to learn their children had been involved in the party.

“Some parents couldn’t believe their children were smoking bhang. Like their kids, we also gave the parents a lecture before releasing the minors into their care,” the officer said.

Mulai confirmed that only three minors remained at the police station due to their failure to provide contact details for their parents. He urged any parents with missing children to contact the police station.

Additionally, Mulai appealed to parents to closely monitor their children during the festive season. He warned that this period could expose children to harmful activities, such as drug abuse, sexually transmitted infections, or even unwanted pregnancies.

“The festive season brings a lot of influence. This is when some children are introduced to drug abuse, contract STIs, or young girls get pregnant. Let’s stay aware of what our children are doing,” Mulai advised.

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