Nationwide raids after Berlin arson attack cut power to many

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March 24, 2026

By Stacy Boit,

German police have launched nationwide raids over a suspected arson attack on Berlin’s power grid that affected many thousands. Six months on, investigators are focusing on alleged links to left-wing extremist networks.

Following a suspected arson attack on high-voltage power poles that left 50,000 without electricity in Berlin last September, investigators have launched raids across the country on Tuesday morning.

Eighteen raids have been taking place across Germany, targeting “suspects whose names are known,” said a spokesperson for the Berlin State Prosecutor’s Office cited by AFP news agency.

“Today’s searches show that we pursue every lead with the highest priority,” the head of Berlin’s interior department, Iris Spranger, said. “Anyone who attacks our critical infrastructure attacks the security of our entire city. We will not accept that,” she added.

In September 2025, unknown individuals destroyed high-voltage cables that supplied power to the Adlershof Technology Park in southeast Berlin’s Johannisthal neighborhood.

A letter claiming responsibility later surfaced in left-wing circles, with extremists suspected.

Fifty thousand customers of the state-owned Stromnetz operator were affected, including businesses. Damage to companies is estimated to be between €30 million to €70 million euros ($34 million to $81 million).

Care facilities were also hit by the power outage and five residents from two nursing homes were temporarily transferred to hospitals, according to the fire department.

Six months later, apartments and other premises are being searched by police in many locations across the capital, as well as in three other federal states, based on information obtained by dpa news agency.

Five hundred police officers were reportedly deployed, with many stationed in front of several buildings in Berlin connected to the left-wing scene and carrying out laptops, according to dpa. A far-left anarchist library in central Berlin’s Kreuzberg was also reportedly targeted by police.

The German police union said: “The security authorities know who the key figures in the hard-line faction are. But it remains incredibly difficult to prove that they carried out arson attacks like the ones in Johannisthal or Zehlendorf.”

In January of this year, a separate attack claimed by the far-left “Vulkangruppe” (Volcano Group) left 45,000 Berlin homes without power for nearly a week during an unusually harsh winter.

EACC Raids Embu County Over Ksh 95 Million Tender Scandal

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Editor

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March 24, 2026

By Andrew Kariuki

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has launched a major crackdown in Embu County following allegations of a Ksh 95 million procurement scandal involving county officials and Members of the County Assembly (MCAs).

In a coordinated operation, anti-corruption detectives raided the Embu County Government headquarters and at least eight residential properties linked to three MCAs and several procurement officers. The early-morning operation forms part of an ongoing investigation into suspected conflict of interest and abuse of office.

According to EACC Central Regional Manager Japheth Baithalu, preliminary findings indicate that the three MCAs allegedly held beneficial interests in at least eleven companies that were awarded tenders by the county government.

Investigators believe the firms may have been used as conduits to secure lucrative contracts, raising serious concerns over violations of public procurement laws. The suspected scheme points to possible manipulation of the tendering process, with officials allegedly influencing contract awards for personal gain.

Further inquiries suggest that approximately Ksh 95 million may have been irregularly paid out through these contracts, benefiting the implicated individuals and associated entities.

During the raids, EACC officers spent several hours combing through county offices, collecting key documents including procurement records, payment schedules, and contract files tied to the companies under investigation. The operation caused noticeable tension within the county offices, though authorities confirmed that officials largely cooperated with investigators.

Baithalu stated that the commission is now focused on establishing the extent of the MCAs’ involvement, particularly whether they failed to declare conflicts of interest as required under Kenyan law.

The EACC has affirmed that investigations are ongoing and has signaled that appropriate legal action will be taken against any individuals found culpable.

Government of Kenya Through the MoH Is Accelerating Efforts To Eliminate Tuberculosis as a Public Health Threat

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Editor

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March 24, 2026

Kenya is accelerating efforts to eliminate tuberculosis (TB) as a public health threat, with the Government reaffirming its commitment to close the gap in diagnosis and treatment while scaling up community-driven interventions across the country.

Speaking during the 2026 World TB Day commemorations held at the University of Nairobi Graduation Square, Cabinet Secretary for Health Hon. Aden Duale said 90,900 people were diagnosed and initiated on treatment in 2025—representing 81 per cent of the estimated TB burden.

“This gap represents lives missed, families affected, and ongoing transmission within our communities. As a government, we are committed to closing this gap,” he said.

The event, held under the theme “Yes! We Can End TB – Led by Government, Driven by Communities,” underscored the need for a coordinated, whole-of-government approach, with communities playing a central role in prevention, detection, and treatment.

The CS noted that Kenya has made significant progress, recording a 45 per cent reduction in TB incidence and a 58 per cent decline in TB-related deaths since 2015, driven by sustained government investment, strong county collaboration, and partnerships.

To strengthen early detection and access to care, the Ministry of Health—working with county governments—has expanded TB services across all 47 counties, including the deployment of molecular diagnostic technologies and ultraportable AI-enabled digital X-ray machines.

“These innovations are enabling early and accurate detection, even in remote areas, as we take services closer to the people in line with Universal Health Coverage,” he added.

However, the CS emphasised that ending TB requires more than medical interventions, noting that the disease is closely linked to poverty, overcrowding, malnutrition, and environmental factors.

He said the Government is adopting an integrated, multi-sectoral response to address these underlying drivers, including improving living conditions, enhancing nutrition, and expanding access to screening and care in high-risk settings and workplaces.

With 63 per cent of TB cases reported among men, Duale called for targeted, gender-responsive strategies to improve health-seeking behaviour, including workplace programmes, community outreach, and the use of digital self-screening tools to encourage early diagnosis and treatment.

He also underscored the importance of sustained public awareness campaigns to promote treatment adherence, reduce stigma, and encourage household screening.

“TB is curable, and services are available across the country. No one should delay seeking care due to fear or discrimination,” he said.

The CS highlighted the critical role of community health promoters, civil society, faith leaders, and TB survivors in finding missing cases, supporting treatment adherence, and driving behaviour change at the grassroots level.

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ending TB, describing it as both a public health priority and a national development imperative.

“Ending TB is about protecting households, sustaining a productive workforce, and advancing Universal Health Coverage. As government leads, we will continue to work with communities to ensure no one is left behind,” he said.

By Anthony Solly

Court Hands Life Sentence to 72 Year Old in Kakamega Defilement Case

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Editor

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March 24, 2026

By Andrew Kariuki

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has secured a life sentence against a 72 year old man in Kakamega County following his conviction for defilement of a minor.

In a judgment delivered on March 19, 2026, at the Kakamega Law Courts, Andobe Sablah Aukhuma was sentenced to life imprisonment after being found guilty of defiling a 10 year old Grade Four pupil in the Providence area of Lurambi Sub-County.

The court heard that the offence resulted in severe harm to the victim, including infection with a sexually transmitted disease, which the court considered an aggravating factor in determining the sentence.

The conviction was secured under Section 8(1) as read with Section 8(2) of the Sexual Offences Act, 2006, following prosecution led by state counsels Ian Makotsi and Stellah Adeny.

In a separate but related case before the same court, two other men—Patrick Bakari, 37 and Godfrey Esalaba, were each sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment after being convicted of defiling and impregnating a 15 yearold minor.

The two are reported to be from Emakaka Sublocation in Kakamega Central.

The convictions mark a significant outcome in the prosecution of sexual offences in the region, with authorities reiterating the importance of accountability and protection of minors under the law.

Spurs offer condolences to Tudor after father’s death

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John Mutiso

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March 24, 2026

Tottenham have offered condolences to interim head coach Igor Tudor following the death of his father.

The 47-year-old Croat did not undertake post-match media duties following Spurs’ 3-0 home defeat by Nottingham Forest on Sunday for personal reasons.

“Everyone at Tottenham Hotspur is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Igor Tudor’s father, Mario,” said Spurs in a statement.

“Our thoughts and condolences go out to Igor and his family during this incredibly difficult time.”

Former Juventus boss Tudor was appointed Tottenham boss until the end of the season on 13 February.

His side sit one point above the relegation zone with seven games remaining, having lost four times and drawn once in the Premier League during Tudor’s short time in charge.

Their next match is at Sunderland on Sunday, 12 April.

Italian club Juventus, for whom Tudor also played for many years, joined Tottenham in expressing sympathy over the loss of his father.

“Juventus stands with Igor Tudor and his family at this difficult time,” the Bianconeri said in a statement on X.

“Juventus joins in mourning the passing of his father.”

Sunderland not very good compared with Newcastle – Gordon

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John Mutiso

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March 24, 2026

Anthony Gordon says Newcastle United‘s defeat by rivals Sunderland is “not good enough” because the Black Cats are “not very good” compared with the Magpies.

Sunderland completed a league double over their north-east rivals on Sunday with a 2-1 win at St James’ Park, having beaten the Magpies 1-0 in the reverse fixture.

The defeat means the Tyneside club have failed to beat Sunderland in any of their past 11 league meetings – the longest winless run for either club in the fixture’s history.

But Newcastle forward Gordon, who scored his side’s opener before Sunderland‘s comeback through goals from Chemsdine Talbi and Brian Brobbey, says Eddie Howe’s side are the better team.

“The frustrating thing is, in my opinion, they’re not a very good team compared to us. We shouldn’t lose to them,” Gordon told Newcastle‘s club media.

“Away is obviously more difficult because they have the fans, the atmosphere and a bit more pressure, but at home we should not lose that game. Not with the first half that we had, but again we haven’t been good enough starting second halves and it’s an ongoing problem.”

Sunderland‘s victory means they leapfrogged Newcastle in the table, with the Magpies dropping to 12th.

The loss followed an 8-3 aggregate defeat by Barcelona in the Champions League.

“It was not good enough really, no excuses,” said Gordon.

“We were good for 45 minutes, which has been the case too often this season – we actually knew going into the game and had been trying to work on it.

“A not good enough start to the second half and they were the better team second half.”

Meanwhile, Newcastle defender Sven Botman has had surgery on a facial fracture after he was injured in the second half.

The 26-year-old is expected to return before the end of the season.

Concerns grow for stranded whale still stuck on German coast

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Editor

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March 24, 2026

By Stacy Boit,

A large whale is fighting for survival off Germany’s Baltic coast after becoming trapped in shallow waters. Despite rescue efforts around the clock, the animal remains stranded raising urgent questions.

A massive whale remains stuck in shallow water just off Germany’s Baltic Sea coast, with rescue efforts failing so far, authorities said on Tuesday.

The roughly 10-meter (32-foot) marine mammal was unable to free itself during the high tide overnight, a police spokesman said.

It was first spotted early on Monday near Niendorf in the northern state of Schleswig-Holstein.

Early signs indicate that it may be a humpback whale — one of the largest animals on earth with distinct pectoral fins, or flippers.

Rescue workers have been trying to free it from a sandbank since midday on Monday, with the help of boats to generate waves, drone technology, as well as support from volunteers and experts.

Although their mission has not been successful yet, they managed to partially free it from netting that had become wrapped around its body.

Public broadcaster NDR reported earlier that the whale could be heard periodically making “deep, muffled” noises and that it appeared weak.

Police used barriers on land to ensure it is not disturbed by onlookers.

It is still unclear why the whale ended up in the Baltic bay’s shallow water. Stephanie Gross from the Hanover-based Institute for Terrestrial and Aquatic Wildlife Research, said it may have been sick, injured, exhausted, or simply unlucky.

Marine conservation group Sea Shepherd says the mammal is likely a young male on migration and believes it could be the same whale repeatedly sighted in the area earlier this month.

Kenya Trade In Services Diagnostic Validation Workshop

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Editor

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March 24, 2026

The Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) actively participated in the Kenya Trade in Services Diagnostic Validation Workshop, convened by TradeMark Africa (TMA) under the REDIT Programme in collaboration with the UK Department for Business and Trade.

The engagement brought together key public and private sector stakeholders to validate findings and propose actionable reforms aimed at strengthening Kenya’s services export sector.

The discussions focused on priority sectors including ICT, Financial Services, Professional Services, BPO/ITES, and Transport & Logistics all critical drivers of export growth, job creation, and economic competitiveness.

MSEA’s key contributions included:

• Highlighting regulatory and compliance bottlenecks affecting MSMEs in accessing export markets

• Advocating for simplified licensing, taxation, and cross-border trade procedures

• Emphasizing the need for targeted capacity building to enhance MSME export readiness

• Promoting inclusive policy frameworks to ensure MSMEs benefit from international trade opportunities.

Through this engagement, MSEA reinforced its strategic role as a bridge between policy and enterprise development, ensuring that MSME perspectives are integrated into national and bilateral trade frameworks.

The workshop also underscored opportunities for strengthened UK–Kenya collaboration in areas such as technology transfer, skills development, and regulatory alignment to unlock growth in the services sector.

MSEA remains committed to supporting MSMEs to scale, compete globally, and fully participate in Kenya’s expanding trade in services ecosystem.

Stakeholders present included; Trademark Africa, British Commerce of Chamber, KEPSA, Office of the Attorney General, IRA, The engineers board of Kenya, Kenya Bankers Associaton, Ministry of foreign affairs, EPZA among others.

By Anthony Solly

Complaint filed over World Cup ticket prices

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John Mutiso

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March 24, 2026

Football Supporters Europe has filed a formal complaint against Fifa over “excessive ticket prices” at this summer’s World Cup.

FSE, along with Euroconsumers, said football’s world governing body has “abused its monopoly position” in setting prices for the tournament, which begins on 11 June.

In December Fifa introduced a small number of “more affordable” $60 (£45) tickets for all 104 matches following widespread criticism of its pricing structure.

FSE has called on Fifa to abandon dynamic pricing – variability based on demand – and freeze prices for the April release of tickets.

It also demanded greater transparency for fans when purchasing tickets, with at least 48-hour notice of availability in each category and where those seats will be.

BBC Sport has contacted Fifa for comment.

The complaint by FSE and Euroconsumers to the European Commission says Fifa has taken advantage of its position “to impose excessive ticket prices and opaque and unfair purchasing conditions and processes on European fans”.

It said in a statement: “Fifa holds a monopoly over ticket sales for the 2026 World Cup and has used that power to impose conditions on fans that would never be acceptable in a competitive market.”

FSE and Euroconsumers alleged “six specific abuses” of Fifa’s position.

They include accusing Fifa of bait advertising – illegal under EU consumer law – with its later release of cheaper tickets “so scarce” that it advertised a price “not genuinely available”.

About 400 £45 tickets have been made available for England and Scotland’s group matches.

FSE director Ronan Evain said the group had no option but to approach the European Commission because of Fifa’s “failure to engage in meaningful consultation”.

“Fifa point to their unconfirmed sales figures as validation of their unfair ticket practices, while the reality is they leave loyal fans with no other choice – pay up or lose out,” Evain said.

According to Fifa, almost seven million tickets have been made available for the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico.

For one person to attend eight matches – one in each round – at the World Cup, it will cost about £5,225 in the lowest price range, £8,580 in the middle tier and £12,350 for the most expensive tickets.

In 2022 it would have cost £1,466, £2,645 or £3,914 respectively, although that was for seven games.

Revamped Crucible to host World Championship until 2045

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John Mutiso

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March 24, 2026

The World Snooker Championship will remain at the Crucible in Sheffield until 2045, with the venue set to be refurbished to add up to 500 additional seats.

The new long-term deal at the 980-capacity theatre also includes an option to extend it to 2050.

During the redevelopment period after the 2028 edition, the tournament will be hosted in 2029 at an alternative venue.

National and local government will supply £35m of the £45m revamp cost, with the other £10m coming from the private sector.

Snooker’s premier event has been staged at the Crucible since 1977, with the current deal running until 2027.

Matchroom Sport president Barry Hearn said last April that the tournament would have to move from its long-time home after 2027 if the venue was not revamped or replaced.

Hearn said the venue was “no longer fit for purpose” but added the World Snooker Tour ideally “want to stay” at the Sheffield theatre.

China and Saudi Arabia were suggested as possible alternatives for hosting the tournament.

“For over 50 years, I have been promoting sport all over the world, but no venue on this planet means more to me than the Crucible,” Hearn said of the new deal.

“My thanks must go to Sheffield City Council for all of their hard work in ensuring this great tournament remains at its spiritual home.”

Last May, Zhao Xintong made history to became the first player from China to win the World Championship.

Some players, including Ronnie O’Sullivan and Iran’s Hossein Vafaei, have criticised the venue for being too small but 2005 champion Shaun Murphy called it “holy ground” for competitors.

Up until the semi-finals, the World Snooker Championship is played with a two-table set-up, meaning space is tight and the fans are close to the players.

Other significant improvements such as enhanced spectator facilities will be included in the refurbishment.

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