Barcelona crush Newcastle’s Champions League dreams with 7-2 win at Camp Nou

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March 18, 2026

After an impressive first-half performance from Newcastle, Barcelona ran riot after the break at the Spotify Camp Nou to claim a 7-2 win on the night and progress to the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals as 8-3 aggregate winners.

Blows were exchanged throughout a frenetic opening 30 minutes in Catalunya, with Anthony Elanga twice restoring parity after the hosts had taken the lead.

But Lamine Yamal’s penalty on the stroke of half time proved to be Newcastle’s downfall, with Eddie Howe’s men shipping a further four goals after the break to condemn themselves to a mammoth defeat in Europe’s elite club competition.

Barcelona will face Atlético Madrid or Tottenham in the quarter-finals.

There are great games in the UEFA Champions League, and then there are games you simply cannot take your eyes off. This, by some margin, fell into the latter category – a fantastic advert for what this competition has to offer when two of the continent’s best teams go head-to-head in a winner-takes-all clash.

A bright start from the visitors at the Spotify Camp Nou saw Joan Garcia put to work early on, first picking up the pieces of Sandro Tonali’s free-kick before then grasping Dan Burn’s effort after a short corner.

But Barcelona, buoyed by the majority of a 56,662-strong crowd, took the lead against the run of play in the 6th minute when slick buildup play saw Lamine Yamal drive past Malick Thiaw and thread a ball through for Raphinha, who capitalised on a slip from Lewis Hall to play a quick one-two with Fermín López and slot into the far corner.

Newcastle responded well though and got back on the front foot within minutes, with Tonali able to whip in another free-kick from the left after Marc Bernal sent Harvey Barnes tumbling to the ground.

But it was Anthony Elanga who’d prove to be the visitors’ hero with a composed finish at the back post with quarter of an hour played in Catalunya. The left-hand side had served Newcastle well throughout their early forays forward and this was no exception, with Barnes and Hall combining for the winger to curl a low ball behind the Barça defence for Elanga to drive across the goalkeeper and restore parity.

That parity lasted just three minutes, as Newcastle switched off from a set-piece to allow Raphinha’s delivery to find Gerard Martín on the left of the box, with his header across the face of goal poked home by teenager Marc Bernal to fire the blaugrana back into the lead.

Barcelona were swiftly undone by beautiful football from Eddie Howe’s men when a complacent Yamal opted for a backheel inside the hosts’ defensive third, handing possession to a lively Hall who combined once more with Barnes. His ball, threaded through the legs of substitute Ronald Araújo – who had replaced Eric García just minutes prior – was tucked home by Elanga at the far post.

Yet there was still more life to be breathed into this thrilling Champions League knockout tie, as a confident Newcastle side sought to take the lead for the first time on the night. Anthony Gordon fired wide of the target, albeit from an offside position, before yet another Tonali free-kick played short to Barnes was eventually held by Joan Garcia.

But for all of Barcelona’s defensive frailties, they are a lethal side going forwards. Burn’s impressive reflexes were put to the test as he flew in to deny Robert Lewandowski’s strike thumped across the face of goal, before the blaugrana flew forward again through Yamal and would be left ruing an outrageous miss.

The teenager’s ball picked out Lewandowski on the edge of the arc, who spun instantly out for Raphinha on the left. The Brazilian saw his strike parried away by Ramsdale, with Lewandowski failing to bury the rebound and the arriving Yamal blazing well over the crossbar.

He’d soon be afforded an opportunity to make amends from the penalty spot, though, as Kieran Trippier was judged to have pulled back Raphinha inside the box as the former Leeds man sought to latch onto Fermín’s cross from the right flank. Ramsdale managed to get fingertips to Yamal’s effort from 12 yards out, but couldn’t quite manage to deny the Spaniard’s 10th goal in this competition.

Newcastle had gone toe-to-toe with the LaLiga giants throughout the first half – but that’s where their luck ran out, as Barça struck gold six minutes after the break to build a two-goal cushion. Having broken free of Tonali in midfield, a quick one-two with Raphinha allowed Fermín to embark on a blistering run from the halfway line before despatching past Ramsdale.

And bad turned to worse five minutes later for Howe’s men when Raphinha’s corner was nodded home by Lewandowski at the back post, with the Polish forward rising above Tino Livramento at the back post to give Newcastle a mountain to climb – and just over half an hour to do it.

Newcastle weren’t even afforded time to begin their mountaineering preparations before Lewandowski rippled the back of the net again; the 37-year-old was picked out by Yamal who dummied a shot before rolling past Ramsdale for the hosts’ sixth goal of the night.

Still there would be no respite for the Magpies, and it was through their own doing that Barcelona were permitted to score an easy seventh goal. Jacob Ramsey’s shambolic attempt at a lofted pass inside the defensive third allowed Raphinha to intercept, take a touch and slot past a dejected Ramsdale.

Despite running riot in the second half and cruising through to the last eight of the competition, it wasn’t a perfect night for the blaugrana, though, who were forced to see goalkeeper Joan Garcia hobble off with an injury inside the dying stages, replaced by veteran Wojciech Szczesny.

Barcelona progress to face Atlético Madrid or Tottenham in the quarter-finals as a hefty defeat sees Newcastle bow out of the UEFA Champions League and turn their attention to this weekend’s Premier League derby meeting with Sunderland.

Kitui County Assembly Engages Mwingi West Residents on the Proposed County Legislative Bills

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Editor

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March 18, 2026

The countywide public participation exercise on the proposed Kitui County Health Facilities Improvement Financing Bill, 2026, and the Kitui County Revenue Administration Bill, 2026, was successfully conducted in Kyome/Thaana Ward, Mwingi West Constituency, where residents from Migwani, Nguutani, Kyome Thaana, and Kiomo Kyethani, wards converged at ATG church in Kyome Thaana to give their views on the proposed Bills.

The forum, led by a delegation of MCAs under the leadership of today’s session chairs Hon. Joseph Kasungi (Waita) and Hon. Paul Maluki (Kithumula/kwa Mutonga), brought together residents and stakeholders, who engaged in a structured and interactive session aimed at collecting views, questions, and proposals on the two legislative documents.

The Chair, Hon. Kasungi, highlighted that the F.I.F Bill seeks to provide a clear framework for the collection, retention, and utilization of funds generated at health facilities, while the Revenue Administration Bill aims to streamline revenue collection mechanisms and seal existing loopholes.

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The Host Member of the County Assembly, Hon. Alphonce Mukwaiyu, welcomed the Assembly delegation and thanked residents for turning up in large numbers to exercise their democratic right. He reiterated the importance of the two Bills in improving service delivery at the grassroots level, particularly in the health sector, urging residents to support provisions that promote equity and efficiency.

The residents who actively participated in the deliberations, offering diverse and insightful contributions on both Bills, expressed support for provisions allowing health facilities to retain and utilize collected funds, noting that this would improve the availability of essential drugs, staffing support, and maintenance of infrastructure. However, some contributors called for the inclusion of robust oversight mechanisms to prevent misuse of funds and ensure accountability at the facility level.

Concerns were also raised regarding potential increases in user fees, with residents urging the Assembly to safeguard the affordability of healthcare services, particularly for vulnerable populations.

With respect to the Revenue Administration Bill, participants welcomed efforts to harmonize revenue collection processes but emphasized the need for clarity on the roles of various officers involved in revenue administration.

The members of the public called for the digitization of revenue systems to minimize leakages and enhance efficiency. Additionally, residents urged the County Government to prioritize public awareness and education on tax obligations and revenue policies to foster compliance and trust.

In their remarks, the MCA underscored the constitutional obligation of public participation as a key exercise of legislative processes. The members noted that the Assembly remains committed to ensuring that people are not only informed but actively involved in shaping laws that affect service delivery.

They further assured participants that all submissions would be duly recorded, analyzed, and considered before the Bills are tabled in the house for consideration.

By Anthony Solly

Housing Project Faces Possible Stall, Committee Told

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Editor

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March 18, 2026

The Principal Secretary for the State Department for Housing has warned of a possible project stall if funds are not allocated promptly.

In documents presented before the Committee, Mr. Charles Hinga noted that under the proposed FY 2025/2026 Supplementary Budget I, a reduction of KES 800 million has been made to the programme’s donor funding allocation, lowering the total budget from KES 13.341 billion to KES 12.541 billion.

He further noted that this decrease will significantly affect programme implementation.

In his presentation, PS Hinga stated that the government currently has 1,700 ongoing housing projects. He also highlighted a personnel shortage, noting that some officers are working up to three shifts due to understaffing.

The Committee, chaired by Vice Chairperson Hon. Mugambi Rindikiri, sought to know whether the Department had anticipated the funding shortfall or if it was a case of poor planning, and why more staff had not been recruited.

In response, the PS confirmed that the Department had anticipated the funding inadequacy, having already utilized 80 per cent of the allocated budget.

He added that although the Department had saved some funds in Treasury Bills, the National Treasury has declined to allow access to the funds.

On staffing, the PS stated that a request for additional personnel had been submitted but was not approved.

The Committee advised that it will engage the Cabinet Secretary for the National Treasury and Economic Planning to seek further clarification on the matter.

The Committee also met the Principal Secretary for the State Department for Public Works, Mr. Joel Arumonyang, who appeared to defend the Department’s budget.

The PS noted that the department lacks adequate motor vehicles, which are crucial for fulfilling its mandate.

The Committee acknowledged that the State Department is underfunded and committed to exploring ways to address the funding gaps.

By Anthony Solly

Several People Feared Trapped as Building Collapses in Kericho

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John Mutiso

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March 18, 2026

Several people are feared to be trapped after a building under construction collapsed in the Kaptebeswet Bypass area, Kericho County.

The building collapsed while workers were still on site, and construction equipment is visible in the images shared.

Emergency response teams have been dispatched to the scene, and rescue operations are currently underway as officials work to rescue people trapped inside.

The County Government of Kericho confirmed that it has received reports of the collapse at Kaptebeswet, Kipchebor Ward.

In a statement, the county stated that it has swiftly dispatched its emergency response teams, including firefighting units and ambulances, to the scene.

“In addition, we are mobilizing excavators and other heavy machinery to support ongoing rescue efforts,” the county said.

Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS), in a statement, has also confirmed that several people are feared to be trapped under the debris, as rescue operations have begun, with four individuals already rescued.

“Response teams are on site, with four individuals successfully rescued so far,” KRCS said.

In images and videos, residents in the area gathered near the site as rescuers coordinated efforts to search through the rubble.

Eyewitnesses at the scene captured footage showing an excavator actively engaged in the rescue operation, while a section of the building’s wall lay in ruins.

At the time of publishing, the police had yet to confirm the number of casualties or injuries.

World Bank bans PwC Africa subsidiaries over electricity project fraud

By

John Mutiso

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March 18, 2026

The World Bank has debarred three African subsidiaries of global advisory firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) for 21 months after being found guilty of manipulating procurement processes for a major cross-border electricity project.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Washington-based multilateral lender said PricewaterhouseCoopers Associates Africa Ltd, based in Mauritius, along with its Kenyan and Rwandan affiliates, engaged in “collusive and fraudulent practices” linked to the Eastern Electricity Highway Project, a flagship initiative to transmit hydropower from Ethiopia to Kenya.

The decision sidelines PwC from lucrative World Bank-funded projects on the continent, dealing a blow to one of the region’s most influential audit and advisory firms.

It could reshape competition for high-value consulting work across emerging markets—potentially disrupting startups and tech firms reliant on World Bank funding—as scrutiny over governance and compliance tightens.

The World Bank, through its private sector arm International Finance Corporation (IFC), offers grants and low-interest loans to startups across emerging markets. On Monday, the IFC committed $20 million to invest in high-growth startups in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.

“The debarment makes PwC Associates, PwC Kenya, PwC Rwanda, and any affiliates they control ineligible to participate in Bank Group-financed projects and operations,” the World Bank said.

“It is part of a settlement agreement under which the three companies admit culpability for sanctionable practices.”

The determination was based on the company’s conduct between 2019 and the award of contracts for consultancy services and asset valuation work for the Ethiopian state power utilities.

According to the World Bank’s Integrity Vice President, the firm obtained confidential procurement documents to improperly influence the award of a contract for the implementation of International Financial Reporting Standards at the Ethiopian Electric Power Corporation.

They also attempted to steer a separate contract for a fixed asset inventory and revaluation for the power utility towards PwC Associates.

During the bidding and execution of that contract, the bank found that the company misrepresented the availability and qualifications of key experts and failed to disclose the full list of subconsultants involved.

According to the World Bank, the debarment is shorter than would otherwise apply because PwC admitted misconduct.

The advisory firm also agreed to a series of remedial measures, including internal investigations, disciplinary action against responsible staff, terminating relationships with all subconsultants involved, and additional staff training.

Kericho man charged with murdering 100-year-old mother in inheritance dispute

By

John Mutiso

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March 18, 2026

A man from Kericho County has been charged with the murder of his 100-year-old mother in a shocking case was driven by an inheritance dispute.

In a statement on Wednesday, March 18, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) said the accused, Julius Cheruiyot Bett, is facing a murder charge following the death of his mother, Grace Chelangat.

Bett was formally charged with murder contrary to Section 203 as read with Section 204 of the Penal Code, a charge that carries severe penalties upon conviction.

The prosecution, led by David Fedha, told the court that the incident occurred on March 7, 2026, in Kiptere location within Sigowet Sub-County, Kericho County.

“The prosecution, led by David Fedha, told the court that the accused person murdered his mother, Grace Chelangat, aged 100, on the 7th March 2026 at Kiptere location, Sigowet sub-county, Kericho county,” the statement read.

The prosecution alleged that Bett used a motor vehicle to run over his mother, resulting in her death.

Authorities believe the act was premeditated and linked to ongoing disputes over family property.

“It is alleged that the accused rammed and killed his mother with a motor vehicle. The accused has been pestering for inheritance of the property, which led to the killing,” the statement added.

Bett appeared before Justice Joseph Sergon, where he denied the charges and pleaded not guilty.

The court considered an application for his release on bond. However, the prosecution opposed his release, and the court ruled in their favor, denying him bond as the case proceeds.

“The court denied the accused bond after the prosecution opposed his release on bond,” the statement further read.

The case is scheduled to be mentioned on May 12, 2026, for pre-trial directions as investigations and preparations continue.

FoLEA Kicks Off Elite Paramilitary Training for County Enforcement Officers

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Editor

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March 18, 2026

The Forestry Law Enforcement Academy (FoLEA) in Londiani today officially opened a specialized paramilitary training course for enforcement officers from Nyamira and Nyeri counties.

The program marks a major step in strengthening county enforcement capacity and professional standards.

Deputy Commandant Mr. Wilson Leboo emphasized the importance of discipline, leadership, and professionalism as core pillars for effective enforcement.

Nyamira County officials, Dr. Mercy Moraa Motanya and Madam Shem Onchiri, joined KFS leaders to demonstrate strong county support for developing skilled and accountable officers.

The training will equip officers with integrity, operational readiness, and leadership skills, enhancing compliance and governance at the county level. FoLEA Londiani continues to set the standard as a premier institution for paramilitary and enforcement training in Kenya.

By Anthony Solly

Bodaboda rider sues Busia Governor Paul Otuoma over alleged assault, demands Ksh100M

By

John Mutiso

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March 18, 2026

Busia County Governor Dr. Paul Otuoma has been sued after a petitioner moved to court seeking Ksh100 million in damages over an alleged violent assault and subsequent intimidation of a civilian.

The petition, filed before the Milimani High Court, accuses the governor of gross misconduct following an incident said to have occurred on March 6, 2026, at Bukri Market in Funyula Constituency during an official county event.

In the petition, the victim, Yusuf Suleiman Hamisi, a 31-year-old bodaboda rider, was allegedly attacked by the governor while standing in a queue for the distribution of certified maize seeds.

In court documents the governor is said to have forcefully kicked him in the groin without provocation, an incident reportedly witnessed by members of the public and captured on video that later circulated widely on social media.

Yusuf through his lawyer Danstan Omari claims that the situation escalated after the incident, with the victim allegedly facing obstruction when seeking medical attention at Sioport and Ruambo Sub-County Hospitals. It is further alleged that the interference was linked to the governor’s office.

“The Respondent’s actions constitute gross misconduct of such gravity and persistence that they not only justify but demand the immediate commencement of impeachment proceedings by the Busia County Assembly,
thereby restoring accountability, protecting citizens, and reinforcing public confidence in devolved governance,” reads the suit papers

Yusuf claims that he reported the incident at Sioport Police Station, but he receiving threats soon after.

Court documents indicate that unknown individuals later visited his residence demanding that he withdraw the complaint or face consequences.

Yusuf additionally claims that he was briefly abducted before managing to escape and went into hiding.

“Despite efforts to shield himself, including changing his phone number, the victim is said to have continued receiving anonymous threats, raising serious concerns about his safety” reads part of the suit documents

The petitioner argues that the governor’s actions amount to violations of constitutional rights, including the right to dignity, security of the person, equality, and fair administrative action. The conduct is also cited as a breach of leadership and integrity standards under Chapter Six of the Constitution and the Leadership and Integrity Act.

Among the orders sought, the petitioner is asking the court to declare the governor unfit to hold public office, compel investigative agencies to take action, and direct the Busia County Assembly to initiate impeachment proceedings under Article 181 of the Constitution.

The court is also being urged to ensure the victim is provided with security, granted access to medical care, and that the allegations are thoroughly investigated.

Kenya to host regional junior golf tourney featuring 14 African countries

By

John Mutiso

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March 18, 2026

Kenya is set to take center stage in continental golf as it hosts a major junior championship bringing together top young talent from across Africa.

In a statement on Wednesday, March 18, Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya said the tournament will take place at Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club in Nairobi.

“It is with great pride that Kenya hosts the African continent for the 2026 All-Africa Junior Team Championship (AAJTC), scheduled to take place from 23rd to 26th March 2026 at the prestigious Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club in Nairobi, marking a historic first in our nation’s history.

“On behalf of the Government of Kenya, I wish to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to all participating countries, delegations, officials, and guests to Magical Kenya, the Origin of Wonder,” the statement read.

Mvurya said the championship will feature participation from 14 nations across the continent, including Botswana, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, and Ghana.

“This premier continental championship, sanctioned by the African Golf Confederation and The R&A, will bring together the finest junior golfing talent from Botswana, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Mauritius, Morocco, Namibia, Nigeria, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Kenya,” the statement added.

Mvurya added that beyond competition, the event is designed to nurture the next generation of athletes while contributing to national objectives in sports development.

“The All-Africa Junior Team Championship is not merely a competition; it is a critical platform for youth development, talent identification, and international exposure.

“It aligns seamlessly with the Government’s broader agenda of nurturing talent, expanding opportunities for young athletes, and strengthening sport as a driver of economic growth, national pride, and regional integration,” the statement further read.

File image of Windsor Golf Hotel & Country Club

Mvurya further stated that Kenya’s hosting of the championship signals its continued commitment to building sports as a unifying force across Africa.

“As we host the 2026 All-Africa Junior Team Championship, Kenya reaffirms its unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of African sporting talent, fostering unity across the continent, and showcasing the immense potential of golf as a catalyst for development and economic revitalization,” the statement continued.

Mvurya further pointed to the long-term benefits for participating players, noting that the tournament serves as a stepping stone into high-level competition.

“The championship provides a critical pathway for young athletes to transition into elite international golf, exposing them to high-level competition, structured mentorship, and global opportunities that will shape their future both on and off the course,” the statement concluded.

Transport CS Davis Chirchir Says Drainage Issues on Nairobi Highways to Be Fixed in 4-6 Months

By

John Mutiso

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March 18, 2026

Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir on Wednesday, March 18, confirmed plans to design Mombasa Road and Uhuru Highway to address flooding.

Speaking while appearing before the Senate, Chirchir revealed that a contractor was on site to redesign the stretch from JKIA to ABC place.

He intimated that the construction works would include fixing the drainage system to allow water drained from the expressway to be redirected elsewhere.

“We have a major contractor picking up the road, and we are redesigning to address all the drainage challenges. Let me confirm that the project just started in the last two weeks,” Chirchir stated.

The CS further disclosed that the two major roads would also undergo a beautification and lighting process, and renovations would be completed in four to six months.

A file image of vehicles submerged in water during the Nairobi floods.

“CRBC is undertaking major works on this road, including beautification, lighting, installation of beautiful gardens and drainage that can offtake water,” he stated.

Chirchir explained that the flooding was partially caused by floodwaters from the expressway, which is drained to the underpass, whose drainage had not been improved to handle the large amount of water capacity.

The CS was responding to a question by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who sought answers on the measures taken by the government to address flooding in the county.

However, Sifuna was dissatisfied with the answer, stating that beautification was not a priority for the residents of Nairobi,

The Senator further questioned what happened to the Ksh9 billion initially released by the government to fix the underpass after it sustained damage during the construction of the expressway.

“Ksh 9 billion had already been given to the previous contractor associated with an MP. We want to be told why the money was given, and it had not been done,” Sifuna stated.

Hundreds of Nairobi residents were left stranded along major roads in the capital city after they were rendered impassable by floodwaters.

The ongoing rainfall season has exposed the magnitude of the drainage issues in Nairobi and the surrounding areas.

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