Man Jailed 9 Years for Forging Wildlife Export Permits

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March 12, 2026

The DPP has secured a nine-year custodial sentence against an accused person convicted of wildlife-related offences under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act at the Kibera Law Courts.

In a statement on Thursday, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) said the accused, Peter Omwangala Atepe, was handed the sentence by Principal Magistrate Margaret Murage.

“The accused, Peter Omwangala Atepe, appeared before Hon. Margaret Murage (Principal Magistrate), where he was sentenced to serve a total of nine (9) years imprisonment after being found guilty of multiple offences related to the illegal exportation of wildlife products and forgery of official wildlife documentation,” ODPP stated.

While delivering the sentence, Murage acknowledged the complex nature of the case and commended the determined efforts of the prosecution in bringing the accused to justice after he tried to defeat justice by derailing the case from 2019 up until 2024, when the first witness took the stand.

The court further noted that the matter was one of the oldest cases pending before the court, having been instituted in 2019. Due to its complexity and other procedural challenges, the case remained unresolved for several years.

Investigations were initiated following a Mutual Legal Assistance request from wildlife protection authorities to the United States of America, seeking cooperation from Kenyan authorities in apprehending the accused after his accomplice was arrested in the USA.

Through the coordinated efforts of the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the ODPP, the accused was apprehended in Kenya and subsequently prosecuted before the Kibera Law Courts, while his accomplice faced prosecution in the United States.

Evidence presented before the court established that the accused had forged a CITES import licence with the intention of facilitating the re-export of wildlife products from Kenya to the United States of America.

The wildlife products included northern deer products, elk products, and peacock feathers.

The accused was also charged with forging Kenya Wildlife Service revenue stamps in import and export permits for purposes of re-exporting the aforementioned wildlife products.

Additionally, he faced a separate charge of exporting wildlife products without a valid permit.

In convicting the accused, the court held that the prosecution had proved its case to the required standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt, despite the numerous challenges encountered during the course of the proceedings.

AUC Chairperson Condemns Attack on Civilians in Goma, Reaffirms Commitment to Peace in Eastern DRC

By

John Mutiso

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March 12, 2026

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has strongly condemned a reported drone strike that killed civilians in Goma in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

In a press statement issued on March 12, 2026, the African Union expressed deep concern over the incident, which occurred in North Kivu province. The strike reportedly resulted in the death of civilians, including a humanitarian worker and left several others injured.

Youssouf described the attack as a serious violation of international humanitarian law, noting that civilians and humanitarian personnel must be protected at all times during armed conflicts.

He warned that attacks targeting civilians risk worsening an already fragile security situation in eastern DR Congo.

The African Union urged all parties involved in the conflict to exercise maximum restraint and avoid actions that could further escalate tensions in the region.

“The African Union Commission reiterates the imperative for all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid actions that could further escalate tensions, and ensure the protection of civilians and humanitarian actors operating in the region,” the statement said.

The commission emphasized that safeguarding humanitarian workers and civilians remains a critical obligation under international humanitarian law.

The AU also underscored the need to respect ongoing mediation efforts and ceasefire arrangements aimed at restoring stability in eastern DR Congo.

According to the statement, the continental body supports efforts to clarify the circumstances surrounding the drone strike through an impartial investigation.

“The Commission supports the need for clarification of the circumstances surrounding this incident through an impartial investigation,” the statement added.

Eastern DR Congo has faced prolonged insecurity driven by armed groups, displacement, and cross-border tensions, making peace efforts increasingly urgent.

The African Union reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the government of the DR Congo, regional partners, and the international community to address the crisis.

The commission said it remains dedicated to supporting a durable political solution that will de-escalate violence and promote lasting peace in the region.

Officials noted that cooperation between regional actors will be key in restoring stability and ensuring long-term security for communities affected by the conflict in eastern DR Congo.

Korea-Kenya CO-Founded Water Project to Benefit 370,000 Locals in Bungoma County,Says Speaker Wetangula

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Editor

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March 12, 2026

National Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Moses Wetang’ula says clean Water is a critical resource for homes, institutions, and the nation at large.

The Speaker made the remarks Thursday morning while hosting H.E Kang Hyungshik, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Kenya, at Parliament Buildings.

Ambassador Hyungshik briefed the Speaker on the progress made in the implementation of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) Water project co-funded by the government of Kenya in Bungoma County.

“This is a project I initiated to expand basic water services and enhance accessibility, thereby enabling the strengthening of water systems within the region,” said Hon. Wetang’ula.

The two affirmed their commitment to strengthening Parliamentary diplomacy through regular engagements spearheaded by the Kenya-Korea Parliamentary Friendship Group.

“Kenya enjoys a great cordial diplomatic engagement with Korea, with Kenya recently holding a World Scouts Conference, which led to Kenya acquiring the Presidency of the Body,” noted the Speaker.

Ambassador Hyungshik said that since the establishment of formal ties, Kenya and Korea have deepened their collaboration across multiple sectors, including trade, education, and technology transfer, health, and infrastructure development.

Korea has been instrumental in supporting Kenya’s socio-economic development through capacity building programs, concessional financing, and technical assistance, particularly under the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

He said Korean investments and public-private partnerships have steadily increased, contributing to job creation and innovation in key industries.

The water project is aimed at strengthening the operational and management capabilities of water supply facilities.

The project aims to provide water supply services to 40 percent of the population and will improve the water treatment levels to 12,000 cubic meters every day.

There will be 82 kilometers distribution area and 27 water reservoirs, with an improved afforestation upstream to 10 hectares.

The project aims to enhance the ability to respond to climate change sustainably and identify a robust, flexible water sources development strategy that ensures security of supply within Bungoma town.

Currently, according to the KOICA survey, only 11 percent of the total population in the beneficial areas has access to safe water through pipelines.

The current rivers water sources require source protection measures due to influx of soil and pollutants from upstream with rainwater precipitation events.

The Ambassador noted that Korea will host the Korea-Africa Ministerial Summit on 1st June 2026.

The Summit will present an opportunity for Kenya to highlight national priorities for enhanced consideration within the context of Korea-Africa cooperation.

Currently, Korea is assisting Nairobi to develop the Nairobi Intelligent Transport System (NITS) and has communicated Samsung C&T Corporation’s interest in contract for the upgrade of the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and was advised to submit bid when bidding process was launched.

Korea Exim Bank is in the process of establishing an operational office in Nairobi to facilitate its representatives to effectively carry out their duties in relation to Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF)-funded projects.

By Anthony Solly

Police Arrest Man Transporting 90kg of Bhang in Matatu

By

John Mutiso

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March 12, 2026

Police have arrested a man after intercepting a matatu transporting 90 kilograms of bhang.

The arrest was made during ongoing operations targeting the trafficking and distribution of illegal drugs as authorities intensify efforts to safeguard public safety and combat substance abuse.

According to a statement issued on Thursday, March 12, 2026, by the National Police Service (NPS), officers intercepted the public service vehicle during a routine patrol and searched.

The search led to the discovery of two sacks of bhang concealed in the vehicle’s boot.

“The consignment, weighing approximately 90 kilograms, is believed to have been in transit,” read part of the statement.

The NPS said one suspect was arrested in connection with the incident and is currently in police custody pending arraignment in court, while the recovered narcotics have been secured as exhibits.

According to the police, the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to disrupt drug trafficking networks and protect communities from the harmful effects of illicit drugs.

At the same time, the NPS urged members of the public to report suspicious activities through the emergency hotlines 999, 911, or 112, or via the #FichuaKwaDCI toll-free line 0800 722 203 and WhatsApp number 0709 570 000.

Lawmakers Raise Alarm Over Possible Fuel Supply Disruptions Amid Iran-Israel

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Editor

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March 12, 2026

Kenya could face a potential fuel supply crisis in the coming months if escalating tensions between Iran and Israel further disrupt global oil supply chains, lawmakers have warned.

The concerns emerged during a meeting between the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Energy and officials from the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum while considering the Supplementary Estimates I for the 2025/2026 financial year.

Members of Parliament expressed concern that rising geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Iran and Israel have already begun affecting global oil supply routes, triggering volatility in international fuel prices and raising fears of possible shortages.

Reports indicate that several cargo vessels transporting petroleum products have recently come under attack, with some catching fire, while major oil refineries supplying several countries have also reportedly been targeted and partially destroyed. The developments have led to disruptions and partial paralysis of operations within some of the global oil supply refineries.

The committee sought clarification from the Principal Secretary for Petroleum, Mr. Mohammed Liban, on the government’s level of preparedness to cushion the country from possible supply shocks.

“Do we have adequate oil in our reserve?” posed Walter Owino, reflecting the concern among legislators over the country’s strategic petroleum stock levels.

Chairperson of the committee, Hon. David Gikaria, described the concern as both valid and urgent, noting that the matter had attracted growing public interest and speculation across the country.

In his directive, Hon. Gikaria instructed that the Cabinet Secretary, together with the Principal Secretary for petroleum and other relevant institutions such as the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA), appear before the committee next week to provide a comprehensive briefing on the situation and the government’s contingency plans.

“This matter is very critical and needs enough time to really interrogate it and acquire a full understanding around it,” said Hon. Gikaria.

The committee is expected to convene a follow-up session with the Ministry and relevant agencies to assess the country’s preparedness and explore possible mitigation measures should the geopolitical tensions escalate further and disrupt fuel supplies.

By Anthony Solly

Mystery as Kenyan Chef is Found Dead in Australia After Suspicious Car Crash

By

John Mutiso

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March 12, 2026

Authorities in Australia have launched a major investigation following the death of a 24-year-old Kenyan chef after a car crash that police believe may be linked to a prior assault.

In a statement on Wednesday, March 11, South Australian Police said the incident occurred in Morphett Vale where emergency services responded to reports of a collision involving a vehicle and a utility pole.

According to authorities, the crash was first reported shortly after 1:30am.

“About 1.30am Wednesday, March 11, police and emergency services were called to Golflands View following reports that a BMW sedan had collided with a stobie pole in Morphett Vale,” the statement read.

According to the statement, officers who arrived at the scene found the driver, identified as 24-year-old Caleb Leriano, with severe injuries.

Investigators later determined that the circumstances surrounding the crash were suspicious after examining the nature of Leriano’s injuries.

“The driver and sole occupant, 24-year-old Caleb Leriano of Morphett Vale, was found with life threatening injuries and despite the efforts of paramedics, he sadly died at the scene.

“Caleb’s death is being treated as suspicious and has been declared a Major Crime after his injuries were determined to have occurred as a result of an assault, prior to the crash,” the statement added.

Following the discovery, multiple police units were deployed to process the scene and gather evidence as part of the ongoing investigation.

Detectives have also carried out several searches as they attempt to piece together what happened before the fatal crash.

“Forensic Response officers, along with Southern District and Major Crime detectives attended the scene and are conducting further investigations into the incident.

“Two homes have been searched by detectives today as part of the investigation, in addition to searches of a local park with the assistance of SA State Emergency Service personnel,” the statement further read.

Police believe Leriano had driven to the area earlier that morning for a planned meeting, though the purpose of that meeting and what followed remains unclear.

“Police understand that Caleb drove his red 2003 BMW to the vicinity of Saphire Reserve Morphett Vale for a planned meeting in the early hours of Monday morning. The reason for that meeting and what occurred is being investigated,” the statement noted.

Authorities are now appealing to members of the public who may have information or video footage that could assist with the investigation.

“Detectives urge residents in the vicinity of Saphire Road and surrounding streets with CCTV or dashcam footage between 12:30am and 1:30am Wednesday 11 March to contact Crime Stoppers,” the statement concluded.

Equity Bank Alerts Customers Over Temporary Contact Centre Downtime

By

John Mutiso

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March 12, 2026

Equity Bank Kenya on Thursday, March 12, alerted its members of a temporary service downtime with its contact centre number.

In a statement issued by the bank, it explained that the service disruption was caused by technological hitches.

Equity Bank stated that a team had been deployed to resolve the issue and restore services for the smooth running of operations.

“Our Contact Centre number, 0763 000 000, is experiencing intermittent service downtime. Our technical team is working to resolve the issue as soon as possible,” the statement read in part.

Meanwhile, the Bank informed customers to get in touch through social media on its official Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn accounts.

A screenshot of the alert sent by Equity Bank to its members on March 12, 2026.

Customers have been advised that they can get assistance by calling 100 using their Equitel lines or writing emails to the bank.

The financial institution expressed gratitude to its clients for their patience during the downtime.

The statement came after several customers lamented about being unable to access the bank through the contact number provided.

“I have been contacting you since yesterday, and all I am getting is just being ignored,” one member complained.

In response to the alert, a section of customers thanked the bank for giving them a heads-up on the system downtime and its effort to address it.

Notably, a customer expressed concerns over the system downtime, stating that it was the second in as many months.

“The other day, it was a system issue; today, it is the contact number. We are losing it,” Kimeu Mweene commented on Facebook.

Senegal approves tougher anti-gay law as rights groups raise concerns

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Editor

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March 12, 2026

Senegal’s parliament has approved a new law doubling to 10 years the maximum prison term for sexual acts by same-sex couples and criminalising the “promotion” of homosexuality.

A total of 135 MPs voted in favour, zero against and three abstained. The next step will be for the president to sign it, then it will become law.

The legislation, which was a campaign promise of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko, was sent to parliament after a wave of arrests over alleged same-sex relationships, already banned under Senegalese law.

The government spokesman dismissed international criticism of the bill, arguing that the move reflected the views of Senegalese people.

“The majority of Senegalese do not accept homosexuality. Our culture rejects it and we are firmly opposed to it,” said Amadou Moustapha Ndieck Sarré.

Some conservative activists in Senegal have long demanded harsher penalties.

The movement And Sàmm Jikko Yi, which campaigns to defend what it calls Senegalese moral values, has repeatedly urged authorities to adopt stricter legislation criminalising homosexual acts. Its leaders argue the law is necessary to protect Senegalese cultural and religious norms.

However, rights groups warn the move could worsen discrimination and violence against sexual minorities. Human Rights Watch researcher Larissa Kojoué said the proposed changes were worrying.

“Criminalising same-sex conduct and arresting people for their sexual orientation violates multiple internationally protected rights, including equality and non-discrimination.”

She added that such measures risked exposing people who were already stigmatised to “violence and fear.”

Alioune Tine, founder of the think-tank Afrikajom Center, told the BBC that the current climate could worsen social tensions. “If it is true that social concerns must be addressed, [the law] also has to respect human rights and protecting public-health policies.”

Others have pointed out that same-sex relationships are a part of life and cannot be abolished by a law.

“Most of the same-sex relationships were hidden anyway. There are even people who are married in the society and who are still entertaining a safe-sex relationship because of the norm and the cultural norm in that society,” Senegal LGBTQ Association head and medical doctor Charles Dotou told BBC Newsday.

All that will happen is “people will be hiding more, it will create more fear and people will be scared to live normally in that community. So there will be an exodus of people, particularly people who were already exposed so that that creates a bit of chaos in society,” Dr Dotou added.

The toughing of Senegal’s law follows a wave of arrests last month over alleged same-sex relationships. Police detained 12 men – among them two public figures and a prominent journalist.

By Anthony Solly

WhatsApp Launches Pre-Teen Accounts With Parental Controls, Built-In Limits

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Editor

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March 12, 2026

The new account type blocks access to features like status updates, chat lock, view-once messages, location sharing, and more for users under 13.

If you’re worried about letting your child use WhatsApp, the platform’s new parent-managed accounts may help ease some concerns.

WhatsApp’s parent-managed accounts, announced Tuesday, allow parents to set up a limited version designed for kids under the age of 13. These accounts support just calling and messaging features and include built-in privacy settings that can only be modified by the guardians.

Once the account is set up, pre-teens won’t be able to access advanced features such as Meta AI, status updates, chat lock, app lock, location sharing, view-once messages, disappearing messages, and linked devices.

Even the permitted messaging and calling features have strict limitations. For example, only saved contacts will be able to send messages, like the profile photo, read account info, and view the last online status of a parent-managed account. If kids receive messages from an unknown contact or get invited to an unknown group, they will be sent to a Requests folder for parent approval.

Parents will be notified of new message requests on their phones. They will also be notified of other account activities, such as when their kid adds a new contact or exits a pre-approved group chat.

Pre-teens can find more details about their accounts by visiting their Profile > Learn more. On the same tab, they can scroll down to Parental controls to request changes. Changes to these privacy settings require a six-digit parent PIN set up while creating the account.

How to Set Up Parent-Managed Accounts

WhatsApp says the new parent-managed accounts are rolling out gradually and may take some time to reach all regions. To set up the account for pre-teens, you need to have your phone and theirs side by side.

Begin by downloading WhatsApp on your child’s phone. Agree to the terms and conditions, tap More options, and select Create a parent-managed account. Proceed by entering your child’s phone number and verifying their age. Once done, wait until a QR code is displayed.

Scan the QR code with your phone’s camera to link the two accounts and add a six-digit PIN for parental controls. Finally, enter the PIN on your child’s phone to finish setting up the managed account. For more details regarding the setup process, check out WhatsApp’s support page.

By Mary Mumbua

President Ruto dons full Kapsabet Boys uniform, rekindles old high school memories

By

John Mutiso

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March 12, 2026

President William Ruto, on Thursday, March 12, was dressed in a full school uniform as he visited his alma mater, Kabsabet Boys High School.

Ruto was dressed in a white shirt, red tie and maroon blazer during the school’s Centenary celebrations, marking 100 years of its existence.

The President held a brief photo session with the school’s student leadership before formally launching the Kabsabet High School Multi-Purpose Hall.

During the tour of the new facility, Kabsabet Hidh School Chief Principal Kipchumba Maiyo informed Ruto that the hall could accommodate 4,500 students at one go.

Nandi Governor Stephen Sang and Treasury Principal Secretary Dr Chris Kiptoo, who are also alumni of Kabsabet Boys’ High School, also wore the institution’s uniform during the event.

Other leaders who accompanied the Head of State were Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei and Education PS Julius Bitok.

The President had earlier visited St Joseph Cheptiret Girls Senior School, where he commissioned an ultra-modern dormitory, a fully equipped science laboratory, and handed over a new school bus.

Ruti also attended a Thanksgiving service at Kabsabet Girls’ High School, which also celebrated its 100-year anniversary today.

However, his trip across several schools in Nandi County was briefly disrupted after an accident at Kabsabet School for the Deaf resulted in a fatality.

One student died, and several others were injured after a septic tank collapsed while they stood on it to try and catch a glimpse of President Ruto.

Kabsabet High School boasts of producing many national leaders. It is the only school in the country to produce two presidents.

Former President, the late Daniel Torotich Arap Moi, is also an alumnus of the school.

How to Set Up Parent-Managed Accounts

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