Justice Monica Mbaru Elected Principal Judge of the Employment and Labour Relations Court

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March 5, 2026

Judges of the Employment and Labour Relations Court have elected Justice Monica Mbaru as the new Principal Judge of the Court. She succeeds Justice Byram Ongaya, who was recently elevated to the Court of Appeal.

Justice Mbaru, currently the Presiding Judge in Mombasa, was elected unopposed. The position of Principal Judge carries a five-year term, renewable once.

She holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Nairobi and a Master of Laws (LLM) from the University of Pretoria. Justice Mbaru is currently pursuing a Doctor of Laws (LLD) at the University of Nairobi, where her research focuses on disability and the law.

Before joining the bench, Justice Mbaru practised law with a strong focus on social justice, human rights, and the protection of minority and marginalised groups, including women and persons with disabilities.

She has previously worked with several organisations, including the Hivos Foundation in East Africa, the International Commission of Jurists (Kenya Chapter), Kituo Cha Sheria (Legal Aid Centre), and the Legal Resources Foundation. In these roles, she contributed to legal aid programmes, paralegal training, and community outreach initiatives.

Justice Mbaru has also served as a consultant with the Secretariat of the African Decade for Persons with Disabilities, where she supported the development of policy and legal frameworks in collaboration with the African Union and the East African Community.

In addition, she participated in the development of the Yogyakarta Principles plus 10, adopted in Geneva in 2017. She is a member of the African Judges Forum and the Africa Judges and Jurists Forum.

By Anthony Solly

Professor Kabiru Isa Dandago, a former Commissioner for Finance in Kano passed away

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Editor

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March 5, 2026

Professor Kabiru Isa Dandago, a distinguished scholar and former Commissioner for Finance in Kano State, passed away on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. He died at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital following a brief illness.

He served as the Kano State Commissioner for Finance between June 2015 and October 2017 (some reports state up to 2018) under the administration of former Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

A renowned Professor of Accounting and Taxation, he was a long-standing faculty member at Bayero University, Kano (BUK), having joined in 1990. He previously served as the Dean of the Faculty of Social and Management Sciences (2004–2008).

At the time of his death, he was the National President of the Government Arabic Teachers College Gwale Old Students Association (GATCOSA). He also served as a Federal Commissioner of the Tax Appeal Tribunal (TAT) starting in July 2018.

Just days before his passing, on Saturday, March 1, 2026, Professor Dandago presented a paper on economic challenges in Northern Nigeria at a Ramadan Lecture organized by the Islamic Forum of Nigeria.

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf expressed deep sorrow over his death, describing him as a dedicated public servant and an accomplished scholar whose contributions left a lasting footprint on the state. Funeral prayers were scheduled for Thursday, March 5, 2026, at his residence in the Rijiyar Zaki Quarters, Kano.

By Anthony Solly

Deputy Governor Chirema Kombo Flags Off 6,700 Bags of Livestock Feeds, Lauds Strong National–County Partnership

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Editor

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March 5, 2026

Kwale County – This morning, the Deputy Governor of Kwale County, H.E. Chirema Kombo, together with County Drought Coordinator Abdullahi Halake, flagged off trucks carrying a consignment of 6,700 bags of livestock feeds destined for Samburu Sub-County at the Samburu Administration Office.

The consignment is set to benefit more than 1,670 farmers across the county, offering timely relief to livestock keepers affected by prolonged dry conditions.

The initiative was made possible through a strong partnership between the County Government of Kwale and the National Drought Management Authority, underscoring the importance of collaboration between the National and County Governments in addressing climate-related challenges.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, while representing H.E. Fatuma Achani, the Deputy Governor Kombo commended the cordial working relationship between the two levels of government, noting that such cooperation ensures swift and effective response to the needs of wananchi.

“This partnership demonstrates what we can achieve when National and County Governments work hand in hand. Together, we are safeguarding livelihoods and strengthening food security for our communities,” said the Deputy Governor.

County Drought Coordinator Abdullahi Halake echoed these sentiments, appreciating the seamless coordination and shared commitment that enabled the successful mobilization and distribution of the livestock feeds.

“The collaboration with the County Government has been instrumental in ensuring that support reaches vulnerable farmers in good time. This is a clear example of effective intergovernmental relations delivering tangible impact on the ground,” he stated.

The program aims to cushion farmers against the adverse effects of drought, protect livestock health, and sustain agricultural productivity across Kwale County.

Also in attendance were CEC Member for Agriculture Roman Shera and CEC Member for Public Service and Administration Karuwa Tsiwezi.

By Anthony Solly

Germany warns US, Israel that ‘military force alone’ won’t resolve conflicts

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John Mutiso

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March 5, 2026

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius on Wednesday said it was “illusory” to think that conflicts in the Middle East can be resolved “by military force and unilateral action alone”.

“We must emphasise this repeatedly to our American and Israeli friends, and we will continue to do so,” Pistorius told the German parliament.

“History teaches us that starting wars is much easier than ending them,” Pistorius said.

“This means that a robust exit strategy is needed,” he said, adding: “I do not see one at present.”

After visiting US President Donald Trump in Washington on Tuesday, Chancellor Friedrich Merz stressed that he wanted to see an end to the war triggered by joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran “as soon as possible”.

“We are hoping that the Israeli and the American army are doing the right things to bring this to an end and to have, really, a new government in place that is coming back to peace and freedom,” Merz said.

But Merz, who had criticised Iran’s ruling clerics sharply over their deadly crackdown on protests in January, also said that he and Trump “are on the same page in terms of getting this terrible regime in Tehran away”.

MultiChoice announces plans to shut down Showmax streaming service

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John Mutiso

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March 5, 2026

MultiChoice has announced plans to discontinue its streaming platform, Showmax, as part of a strategic review aimed at strengthening its digital services in an increasingly competitive global streaming market.

In a notice sent to subscribers on March 5, 2026, the company said the decision was taken by the Showmax Board following what it described as a comprehensive assessment of the platform’s future.

“We’re writing to inform you of an important update regarding Showmax,” the company told subscribers in the communication.

“Following a comprehensive review, the Showmax Board has taken the decision to discontinue the Showmax service in the near future.”

Despite the announcement, MultiChoice assured customers that the streaming service would continue operating for now and that no immediate changes would affect their viewing experience.

“Importantly, at the moment there will be no interruption to your current service. You can continue streaming as usual, and no action is required from you at this time,” the company stated.

The notice sought to reassure subscribers that the transition would be managed carefully, with additional information to be provided before any final shutdown takes place.

“We understand that this news may raise questions. Showmax subscribers are a priority for us, and we are working on plans to ensure clear communication and a smooth transition when the time comes,” the message said.

MultiChoice added that subscribers would receive advance notice of timelines and any steps that might be required ahead of the service’s eventual closure.

The company explained that the decision to discontinue Showmax forms part of a broader effort to reposition its digital strategy and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving streaming landscape dominated by global platforms.

“This decision reflects our focus on strengthening our overall digital offering and ensuring long-term sustainability in an increasingly competitive streaming environment,” the statement said.

Although Showmax is set to be phased out, MultiChoice stressed that streaming remains a central pillar of its long-term plans.

“Streaming remains central to our strategy. We will continue to invest in premium content, technology innovation and partnerships to deliver the best possible entertainment experience to our customers,” the company said.

The company concluded by thanking subscribers for their continued support, while indicating that further updates would be shared as plans for the transition become clearer.

Six dead after Chania bus collides with trailer in dawn crash near Maungu along Nairobi-Mombasa Highway

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Editor

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March 5, 2026

Six people died in a tragic dawn accident on Thursday, March 5, 2026, when a Chania Executive bus collided head-on with a trailer at the Manyatta area near Maungu in Taita-Taveta County.

The crash occurred at approximately 5:10 AM along the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway, a stretch of road identified by authorities as a notorious “black spot”.

A bus belonging to the Chania Executive Company and a trailer managed by the Keitata Company.

6 people were confirmed dead at the scene.

The drivers of both vehicles and six other passengers sustained serious injuries.

Survivors were rushed to Moi County Referral Hospital in Voi for specialized medical treatment.

Preliminary reports from Coast traffic police indicate the trailer driver left his proper lane for unknown reasons, leading to the head-on collision.

Authorities also cited ongoing heavy rainfall in the region as a factor necessitating increased caution for motorists.

The injured passengers were rushed to the Moi Referral Hospital in Voi for immediate medical attention.

Meanwhile, the bodies of the deceased passengers have been moved to the morgue, awaiting autopsy.

By Anthony Solly

Police Rescue 70 Foreign Nationals in Suspected Human Trafficking Syndicate in Ruai

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John Mutiso

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March 5, 2026

Police Officers have rescued 70 foreign nationals from a suspected human trafficking syndicate in Ruai, Nairobi.

In an update on Thursday, March 5, the Kenya Police Service (KPS) said the foreigners were rescued following a tip-off.

According to KPS, the 70 victims, who include 66 Ethiopians and 4 Eritreans, had been locked up inside a house in Ruai.

During the operation, police officers arrested a Kenyan who is suspected of being behind the human trafficking ring.

“Acting on a tip-off, officers busted a suspected human trafficking syndicate and rescued 70 victims who had been locked inside a house in Ruai, Nairobi.

“The victims include 66 Ethiopians and 4 Eritreans. One Kenyan suspect was arrested in connection with the case,” KPS said.

Further, the service urged members of the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities.

“Human trafficking is a serious crime. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to authorities,” KPS added.

HELB Opens Advanced Nursing Loan Applications; How to Apply

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John Mutiso

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March 5, 2026

The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has opened applications for the Advanced Nursing Education Loan, a specialized fund designed to support nurses and midwives.

In a notice on Thursday, March 5, HELB said the initiative, implemented in partnership with the Johnson & Johnson Foundation, Amref Flying Doctors, and the Nurse & Midwife Alliance, will provide loans of up to Ksh500,000 at a low interest rate of 4 percent per year.

Beneficiaries will also enjoy flexible repayment periods of up to 60 months (five years), allowing them to repay the loan gradually.

The repayment process will also be simplified through monthly employer check-off arrangements, where repayments can be deducted directly from salaries.

The fund is available to both unemployed (pre-service) and salaried students.

For unemployed or pre-service students, the loan will cover tuition fees for Higher Diploma studies.

Meanwhile, salaried students may receive funding for a broader range of programs including Higher Diploma, Undergraduate Degree, Masters and PhD studies.

Applicants who are not currently employed must provide an admission letter from a recognized university or training institution in Kenya, certified by the Nursing Council of Kenya.

In addition, applicants must submit a copy of their National ID, copy of their KRA PIN, and copies of National IDs from two guarantors.

They will also be required to attach a recent coloured passport-size photograph.

For nurses and midwives who are already employed, they must submit an admission letter from a recognized university or training institution in Kenya, certified by the Nursing Council of Kenya.

They must also provide a copy of their National ID and KRA PIN, both certified by a Commissioner of Oaths.

Additionally, applicants are required to submit copies of National IDs from two guarantors, who must be employed and whose documents must also be certified by a Commissioner of Oaths.

A recent coloured passport-size photograph must also be included.

Salaried applicants will also need to submit copies of their most recent three months’ pay slips, certified by their employer.

To apply, HELB said applicants must submit their applications through its online portal.

Applicants should first visit the HELB website (www.helb.co.ke) to access the application portal.

They are required to register and activate an account using their personal mobile number registered under their name and ID number.

During profile creation, applicants must select their level of study as Higher National Diploma, Degree, or Masters, and indicate under education background that they were not admitted through KUCCPS.

After completing the profile setup, applicants should click on the Loan Application section and select ‘Advanced Nursing Education Fund.’

They will then be required to access and complete the online application form.

HELB noted that the process is fully paperless, meaning applicants will not be required to print or physically submit documents after completing the online application.

Once submitted, applicants will be able to track the processing status of their application through the online portal.

‘Exercise extreme caution’ – KeNHA issues road safety alert over ongoing heavy rains

By

John Mutiso

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March 5, 2026

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued a safety alert urging motorists to exercise caution following the heavy rains being experienced across the country.

In a notice on Thursday, March 5, KeNHA warned that the ongoing rains may result in floods and reduced visibility, significantly affecting road travel.

The authority noted that the Kenya Meteorological Department has predicted moderate to heavy downpours, while the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has warned of slippery road conditions and fog.

“In light of this, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) urges all road users to exercise extreme caution,” the notice read.

KeNHA called on motorists to slow down and maintain a safe following distance and to avoid overtaking during heavy rain or fog.

The road agency also advised motorists to avoid driving through flooded sections.

Meanwhile, KeNHA urged motorcyclists and cyclists to wear reflective gear for visibility, and pedestrians to avoid walking close to fast-moving traffic during heavy rainfall.

“Heavy downpours may cause traffic delays, temporary road closures, and increased accident risks, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas,” the authority noted.

Further, KeNHA said it will continue to monitor the situation and respond promptly to affected road sections.

Senator Methu Reveals Why the United Opposition is Yet to Have a Candidate

By

John Mutiso

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March 5, 2026

Nyandarua Senator John Methu has explained why the United Opposition is yet to settle on a presidential candidate.

Speaking on Wednesday, March 4, the senator said the opposition is currently focused on listening to the public rather than mobilizing political crowds.

“We would campaign if we had a candidate; the reason we don’t have one is because the campaign period hasn’t started. What we are doing is listening to the views of the people, we are not paying people to mobilize crowds,” he said.

Elsewhere, Methu addressed his political position regarding President William Ruto, noting that while he supported him during the election, he is dissatisfied with his performance in office.

“I voted for President Ruto. I don’t hate him as a person but his leadership is inept. He has not lived up to the expectations of what he promised the people,” he added.

Methu further argued that the president appears to have already accepted the possibility of serving only one term in office.

“I think William Ruto has made peace with the fact that he will be a one term president therefore, he wants to dig such a big hole such that anybody who comes after him will not manage,” he further said.

This comes days after People Liberation Party (PLP) leader Martha Karua, on Friday, February 27, downplayed the UDA’s clean sweep in the recently concluded by-elections.

Speaking in Naivasha, Karua stated that a victory in the by-elections did not guarantee a win in the 2027 General Election.

She alleged that Ruto, who also doubles as the UDA party leader, rigged the elections in favour of the ruling party.

The firebrand leader vowed to send Ruto packing in the presidential contest slated for August next year.

“You can steal the by-election, but you will not rig the general election. We know your ways, and we will floor you in the general elections,” she stated.

Karua reaffirmed that the United Alternative Government leaders would settle on one presidential candidate and rally behind him or her.

She maintained that the redemption of Kenya required a complete overhaul of the UDA system, and pushed for the United Opposition to unseat all leaders elected under the Wheelbarrow party.

“We will choose one flagbearer in the Opposition, but we will also ensure that we have a candidate in all the other elective positions,” she reiterated.

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