Eliud Kipchoge: Marathon Legend Reveals Special Reason Behind Real Madrid Visit

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February 26, 2026

Former marathon world record holder Eliud Kipchoge shared his excitement on social media, marking his visit to the Spanish capital with a stop at one of the most iconic venues in sports, the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

Eliud Kipchoge connecting with Real Madrid, arguably the most successful football club in history, is a powerful moment.

However, Eliud Kipchoge’s visit is not just about sightseeing as it also focuses on the future of youth sports and the power of global opportunity.

During his visit, Eliud Kipchoge highlighted a major initiative set for 2026. Through a partnership with Abbott, the “Dream Team” program is designed to bridge the gap between young talent and elite training environments.

The initiative will provide youth soccer players from the United States with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, the chance to train with Real Madrid.

By giving these young athletes access to the same facilities and coaching philosophies that have produced countless champions, the program aims to inspire the next generation of leaders on and off the pitch.

“Good morning, Madrid. I am happy to spend the next days in your beautiful city. Yesterday night I had the chance to visit @realmadrid at Santiago Bernabéu,” Eliud Kipchoge said in a post on his Instagram page.

“In 2026, the @abbottglobal Dream Team will give youth soccer players from the U.S. the chance to train with one of the world’s greatest clubs and see how champions prepare. It reminded me how powerful it is to give young athletes access to the best. Opportunity can change life!”

The Santiago Bernabéu is more than just a stadium. For an athlete like Eliud Kipchoge, whose career is built on the pillars of discipline and preparation, the environment of Real Madrid resonates deeply.

This collaboration between Eliud Kipchoge, a healthcare leader like Abbott, and a football powerhouse like Real Madrid underscores the evolving landscape of sports.

As Eliud Kipchoge continues his stay in Madrid, his message remains investing in youth and providing them with the best.

Charlene Ruto finally meets Museveni’s son General Muhoozi after ‘marriage proposal’

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John Mutiso

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February 26, 2026

Kenya’s First Daughter Charlene Ruto was warmly hosted today by Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, at the Special Forces Command (SFC) Headquarters in Entebbe.

The meeting – described by insiders as a “brotherhood beyond borders” moment – comes just days after Gen Muhoozi publicly announced plans to visit President William Ruto in Nairobi, fuelling speculation of even closer Kenya-Uganda ties at the highest levels.

Charlene Ruto, accompanied by a select delegation including Morocco’s Honorary Consul George Nkya, Festus Orina, Varsheeni Ragupathy, and Hon. Jane Frances Acilo, was received with full military honours by the CDF and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations.

Gen Muhoozi, son of President Yoweri Museveni and one of East Africa’s most influential military figures, set the tone with a powerful statement:

“Uganda and Kenya share a brotherhood that goes beyond geography. Our cooperation—whether in security, trade, or people-to-people engagement—remains essential for the stability and prosperity of our region. We are committed to deepening these ties for the benefit of both our nations.”

Charlene Ruto expressed sincere gratitude for the “gracious reception and generous hospitality” extended to her and her team.

The visit is far from ceremonial. Kenya remains Uganda’s top trading partner, with bilateral trade volumes exceeding USD 1.5 billion in 2025 alone. As a landlocked nation, Uganda depends heavily on Kenya’s Port of Mombasa for the majority of its imports and exports. Shared languages, intertwined cultures, and ancestral links only strengthen what officials call a “unique bond” within the East African Community (EAC).

Security cooperation, military-to-military ties, and people-to-people exchanges were all on the agenda – signalling that the relationship between State House Nairobi and State House Kampala is not just strong… it’s getting stronger.

The courtesy call follows Gen Muhoozi’s recent public statement teasing an upcoming trip to meet President Ruto personally. Analysts say today’s encounter sends a clear message: the sons and daughters of the region’s leaders are actively keeping the diplomatic fires burning.

Whether this is prelude to a full presidential summit or simply a warm-up act remains to be seen – but one thing is crystal clear: Charlene Ruto’s visit to Gen Muhoozi has put Kenya-Uganda relations firmly back in the spotlight.

Kenya Power Announces Power Blackouts in 2 Counties on Friday

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John Mutiso

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February 26, 2026

Kenya Power has announced that residents in selected areas across Nairobi and Kisii counties will experience scheduled power interruptions on Friday, February 27, 2026.

In a statement, the company advised affected customers that the interruptions will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and urged them to take necessary precautions to minimise disruption to daily activities.

In Nairobi, residents in Parklands will be affected. Areas scheduled for outages include Avenue Hospital, parts of 2nd and 3rd Avenue, Westgate, Jaram Road, part of Mpakani Road, Citam Road, part of Nyeri Road, Citam Church, Acculaser, and adjacent customers.

Additionally, Nyeri Road and Makueni Road areas will experience power cuts affecting Nyeri Road, Mwingi Road, Kikampala Road, Kueni Road, Mazerus Road, Vihiga Road, Kaputei Gardens, Hamisi Road, and surrounding neighbourhoods.

Kenya Power advised businesses, schools, and residents along these routes to plan for alternative power sources or adjust activities during the outage period.

In Kisii County, parts of Gesusu and Masimba will experience blackouts. The affected locations include parts of Gesonso, Kiaruta Dispensary, Waterpark, Citam Church, Matongo, St. Peter’s School, Nyawerekoa, and adjacent areas.

Kenya Power reminded the public that scheduled outages are essential for network maintenance, upgrades, and safety improvements.

The company said the outages are part of routine maintenance and infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving service reliability.

“Good evening, Please be advised that there will be a scheduled power interruption as outlined in the attached Images: Date: Friday, 27.02.2026 Time: 9.00 A.M. – 5.00 P.M.^BN”Kenya Power noted.

The company also urged customers to report any electricity emergencies through its official channels and to stay updated on future notices to avoid unexpected disruption.

Narok Governor Ntutu Leads Search for Two Men Swept Away in Mara River

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Editor

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February 26, 2026

Narok Governor Patrick Ntutu has confirmed that two young men were swept away by raging floodwaters while attempting to cross River Mara.

In a statement on Thursday, February 26, he said the tragic incident occurred at Mara Rianta, where the victims reportedly tried to drive across the swollen river before their vehicle was overpowered by the fast-moving waters.

“The two, who were residents of Kirindon in Kimintet Ward, were returning home from Mara Rianta when the unfortunate incident occurred. Our County Disaster Response Team is currently at the scene coordinating efforts to retrieve the bodies and recover the vehicle wreckage,” he said.

Ntutu described the incident as a painful reminder of the dangers associated with attempting to cross flooded waterways, especially during the ongoing rainy season.

“This tragic incident serves as a painful reminder of the grave dangers posed by swollen rivers during the rainy season. I urge all residents to exercise extreme caution and to refrain from attempting to cross flooded rivers or bridges, regardless of how passable they may appear,” he added.

Ntutu added that he was engaging relevant authorities to find a lasting solution to prevent future tragedies at the crossing point.

“I am engaging the relevant authorities to urgently address the longstanding concern regarding the elevation of the Mara Rianta Bridge, which has repeatedly claimed lives during periods of heavy rainfall. We must take decisive and proactive measures to prevent such heartbreaking losses in the future,” he further said.

Ntutu conveyed his condolences to the families of the deceased and the wider community affected by the tragedy.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families and the entire Kimintet community during this difficult and trying time,” he concluded.

Man Arrested for Sharing Threatening Messages on TikTok

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John Mutiso

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February 26, 2026

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested a TikTok user over a video allegedly containing a threatening message.

In a statement on Thursday, February 26, DCI said the suspect was apprehended after investigations into the clip shared on his TikTok account.

“Detectives drawn from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters have arrested Peter Maingi Kimani alias Menelik Kimani, who is suspected of recording a video containing a threatening message and sharing it on his TikTok account earlier this week,” the statement read.

The agency detailed how the suspect was traced and taken into custody, revealing that he had gone into hiding after posting the video.

“The suspect was smoked out of his hideout in the Gachage area of Kiganjo, Gatundu South Sub-County, where he had holed up after committing the offence. He is currently undergoing processing pending arraignment,” the statement added.

The DCI used the incident to caution members of the public about responsible use of social media platforms and the limits of constitutional freedoms.

“The DCI reminds the public that while freedom of expression is guaranteed in the Constitution, its enjoyment should not be used as a tool to promote or justify the violation of the rights of others,” the statement concluded.

Homa Bay Deputy Govenor Oyugi Magwanga Resigns After Fights With Wanga

By

John Mutiso

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February 26, 2026

Oyugi Magwanga has resigned from his position as Deputy Governor of Homa Bay County.

Speaking on Thursday, February 26, Magwanga said he was stepping down with a clear conscience and belief that he had served the people diligently during his time in office.

“I leave office with my conscience clear and my commitment to the people of Homa Bay unwavering,” he said.

Magwanga maintained that his dedication to accountability and responsible leadership remains intact despite his exit from the county government.

“My resolve to advocate for integrity, proper management of public resources and the fulfillment of the aspirations of our county remains stronger than ever,” he added.

Earlier this month, Magwanga dragged Governor Gladys Wanga to court over interference in the execution of his duties.

Speaking on Wednesday, February 4, he disclosed that he had filed a petition with the Employment and Labour Relations Court seeking orders to compel Wanga to unlock his office.

Magwanga further sought the court’s orders to have his county vehicles reinstated to him, arguing that the County Chief’s actions were unconstitutional.

He urged his boss to reconsider her actions instead of waiting for the court to rule on the matter.

“This is a disservice to the people of Homa Bay because I am earning a salary without offering any service. I want to appeal to her to make the necessary arrangements to unlock the office before the court issues a decision,” he stated.

Magwanga launched a bare-knuckled attack on the ODM Chair, stating that she had failed to deliver to the people of Homa Bay County.

He alleged that the Wanga was riding on the broad-based government projects as part of her track record.

“She has just been overpraising the national government projects and even claimed them as hers, yet she cannot tell the people of Homa Bay where she has taken the Ksh48 billion allocated to the county,” he declared.

Magwanga declared that he would challenge Wanga for the Homa Bay County gubernatorial seat in the 2027 poll.

“I vied for Governor in 2017 and have been the Deputy for Wanga since 2022. In 2027, I will be on the ballot as the governor of Homa Bay County. Let her prepare for a face-off,” he stated.

Prior to that, Magwanga had challenging his boss to proceed with any plans to remove him from office, if there are any.

“They want to impeach me, for which I am calling upon them to bring it. Let them bring it, and let’s see where it will actually end,” he said.

Magwanga warned Wanga that should the supposed impeachment fail in the county assembly, he would retaliate by initiating his own against her.

He suggested he is a fully-fledged politician who also has his means politically.

“Should my impeachment fail, I will also initiate mine. She knows me, and I know her,” the deputy governor stated.

Global Face Director Arraigned at Kahawa Court Over Alleged Trafficking of Kenyans to Russia

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Editor

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February 26, 2026

By Andrew Kariuki

A director of Global Face Limited has been arraigned before the Kahawa Law Courts over allegations of trafficking Kenyan youths to Russia under false pretences.

The accused, 33-year-old Festus Arasa Omwamba, appeared before Senior Principal Magistrate Gideon Kiage, where he denied all charges brought against him.

According to the prosecution, Omwamba is accused of recruiting at least 22 Kenyan nationals and facilitating their travel to Russia while allegedly misrepresenting the nature of the opportunities available to them.

The court heard that the alleged offences were committed on various dates between December 1, 2024 and September 24, 2025, at Great Wall Gardens in the Athi River area within Mavoko Sub-County, Machakos County.

Prosecutors stated that the accused acted in collaboration with another individual who is also facing charges.

Investigations revealed that Omwamba surrendered himself at the Moyale immigration border on February 2, 2026, where he was arrested.

He was later escorted by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to Isiolo Police Station before being handed over to the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU) for further investigations.

State Counsel Kennedy Amwayi told the court that 22 victims of human trafficking were rescued on September 24, 2025, in Athi River.

He further alleged that three additional victims who had already travelled to Russia were later caught up in the Russia–Ukraine conflict and returned to Kenya with injuries.

The prosecution opposed the accused’s release on bail, arguing that he posed a flight risk and that the case has attracted significant public interest both locally and internationally.

Consequently, the court ordered that Omwamba be remanded in custody pending the hearing and determination of his bail application.

Earlier proceedings had seen the plea deferred after the defence indicated that the accused had previously been granted anticipatory bail of Ksh 100,000.

However, the prosecution successfully argued that the anticipatory bail had lapsed, having been issued in June 2025, and was therefore no longer valid.

The court agreed with the prosecution’s position, paving the way for plea taking to proceed.

The case will continue as investigations and court proceedings unfold.

Political Parties Disputes Tribunal Sets March 12 Hearing for Sifuna’s Challenge Against ODM SG Removal

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Editor

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February 26, 2026

By Andrew Kariuki

The Political Parties Disputes Tribunal (PPDT) has slated March 12, 2026, as the date for the hearing of a dispute filed by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna contesting his removal as Secretary General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM).

In directions issued on Thursday, February 26, 2026, the Tribunal also ordered ODM to file and serve documents confirming authority to swear affidavits, together with transcripts of the evidence it intends to rely on, within three days.

At the same time, the Tribunal directed Sifuna to file and serve his written submissions within seven days.

“The respondent will have seven days from the date of service to file and serve their submissions; then the hearing, by way of highlighting oral submissions, will be held on March 12, 2026, at 10 am,” Acting PPDT Chairperson Gad Gathu directed.

During the proceedings, ODM informed the Tribunal that it had already supplied hard copy recordings of the material it intends to rely on and would be submitting them to the registry.

However, the party acknowledged that the recordings were not accompanied by transcripts, indicating that these would be filed subsequently alongside other materials.

ODM further told the Tribunal that although it does not have video evidence, it intends to rely on transcripts, screenshots and screen grabs sourced from media coverage.

It also confirmed that it had filed a certificate of electronic evidence and would provide copies of the digital material to the registry.

The matter arises from Sifuna’s challenge to a decision by the ODM National Executive Committee (NEC) to remove him from his position as Secretary General on February 11, 2026.

Earlier, on February 12, 2026, the Tribunal issued interim orders halting the implementation of the NEC resolution and restraining the party from gazetting the decision pending the hearing and determination of the dispute.

In his application, Sifuna argues that the resolution to remove him was irregular and unlawful, stating that the issue of his removal was not included in the agenda of the meeting that made the decision.

He further contends that he was not notified of any complaint against him and was not given an opportunity to respond to the allegations.

Additionally, Sifuna claims that the party failed to issue him with a notice to show cause, thereby denying him the right to a fair hearing.

He also challenges the speed with which the party moved to appoint his deputy as Acting Secretary General and to set a date for a National Delegates Convention.

“The ODM NEC’s resolution was made in breach of the provisions of Article 74 of the ODM Constitution, Section 4 of the Fair Administrative Action Act, Cap 7L Laws of Kenya, and Article 47 of the Constitution,” Sifuna adds.

The Tribunal is expected to determine whether the removal complied with the party’s internal rules and constitutional requirements, as well as the broader legal standards governing fair administrative action.

Marriott International Announces Robust Growth Momentum Across Europe, Middle East & Africa in 2025

By

John Mutiso

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February 26, 2026

Marriott International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MAR, “Marriott”) (www.Marriott.com) announced an exceptional year of growth across Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) in 2025 with more than 230 organic signings representing over 31,000 rooms. Marriott also added 170 properties and nearly 24,000 rooms across EMEA last year, contributing to a 7.8% net rooms growth in the region.

“2025 was another strong year for Marriott International in EMEA defined by strategic expansion and segment-wide momentum across the region,” said Satya Anand, President, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International. “We continued to grow our portfolio with purpose by expanding into new destinations, scaling our brands thoughtfully and offering even more diverse experiences for our guests and Marriott Bonvoy members. Our robust growth is a testament to the dedication of our teams and the trust of our owners, and we remain committed to shaping the future of travel in the region.”

The company’s EMEA region ended the year with a pipeline of over 600 properties and nearly 113,000 rooms.

Germany, Italy, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom were the highest growth markets, with the leading number of signings for the company across the region in 2025. Conversions and adaptive reuse projects continue to drive significant growth for the company in the region, fueled by the company’s portfolio of collection brands and conversion-friendly offerings. Conversions and adaptive reuse projects represented nearly 50% of the region’s signings in the year.

Unrivaled Luxury Brands Deliver Extraordinary Growth

Marriott reinforced its luxury leadership in 2025. EMEA represented the company’s strongest region for signings in the luxury segment with a record 40 signed luxury deals. St. Regis saw the highest number of signed agreements in the region with 14 deals, including The St. Regis Karya Cove Resort, Bodrum and The St. Regis Jeddah Corniche. Other luxury milestone signings included The Cape Town EDITION, JW Marriott Hotel Tashkent and JW Marriott Milos Resort and Spa.

Record Breaking Branded Residential Signings

Reinforcing the company’s 25-year leadership in branded residences, Marriott signed a record-breaking 24 residential deals across EMEA, more than double the volume signed in 2024. Since year-end 2023, the company has grown its branded residential total portfolio of open and pipeline properties by 33% in Europe, and 70% in the Middle East & Africa, demonstrating the growing demand for elevated living in the region. The company closed the year with 33 open locations and 60 in the region’s pipeline. Signings highlights in 2025 included The Residences at the Dubai Beach EDITION; Marriott Residences, Budapest; The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Palm Hills, Cairo and Seamont, Autograph Collection Residences, Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi.

Accelerated Expansion of Midscale Segment

Marriott has experienced extraordinary growth in the midscale segment, while maintaining a strategic focus on regionally resonant brands and scaling them. Four Points Flex by Sheraton, a conversion-friendly midscale brand offered in EMEA, represented the fastest growing brand for the company in the region with 18 signings and 23 openings in 2025. The brand closed the year with 38 open properties with over 4,300 rooms.

Marriott recently introduced two new brands to the region – Series by Marriott, a global collection brand for the midscale and upscale lodging segments that is designed to deliver a personalised experience that reflects the distinct character of each destination, and StudioRes, an extended-stay midscale brand. Both brands have received significant interest from developers across the EMEA region.

Acquisition of the citizenM brand

As the company continues to strive to meet the evolving needs of every traveler and trip purpose, Marriott completed its acquisition of the citizenM brand, known for its genuine service, tech-savvy in-hotel experience, highly efficient use of space, and focus on art and design. The citizenM portfolio was integrated on Marriott’s platforms in the fourth quarter of 2025, adding 19 hotels and nearly 4,000 rooms to the company’s EMEA portfolio.

Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International added,

“From record luxury and branded residential signings to the remarkable momentum of our midscale offerings, we are capturing opportunity for growth and new audiences across every segment in the region. These milestones underscore the depth and diversity of our portfolio and reinforce our commitment to delivering long-term value for our hotel owners in this region.”

Marriott added 170 properties to its operating portfolio in the region in 2025. Opening highlights included:

The Luxury Collection continued its expansion in the region following the openings of Patmos Aktis, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Greece and H15 Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Krakow
Lifestyle luxury brands EDITION and W Hotels celebrated milestone openings such as The Lake Como EDITION, The Red Sea EDITION, W Florence and W Sardinia.
JW Marriott made its debut in Greece with the JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa, the brand’s first Mediterranean beach resort.
The company’s flagship brand, Marriott Hotels, marked its debut in Luxembourg with the Luxembourg Marriott Hotel Alfa.
Morea House, Autograph Collection, opened within Camps Bay in Cape Town, further expanding the brand’s diverse and dynamic portfolio of independent hotels in the region.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, Moxy Hotels reached 100 open properties in the region with the Moxy Belfast City along with other key openings in Istanbul, Lisbon and Warsaw.
Four Points Flex by Sheraton added over 20 properties to its operating portfolio which included the brand’s entry into Germany, Austria, Italy and Spain.

As Marriott continues to expand its offerings, the breadth and depth of the company’s portfolio remain well-positioned to offer compelling options for developers and real estate investors. To learn more about Marriott’s development opportunities and updates, visit https://apo-opa.co/40s81T0.

CS Duale demands action against school principal who chased away student for wearing hijab

By

John Mutiso

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February 26, 2026

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has demanded that the Ministry of Education take action against the Principal of Lwak Girls’ Secondary school for sending home a student for wearing a hijab.

Speaking on Thursday, February 26, Duale accused the Principal of undermining the student’s right to religion and freedom of expression.

He argued that sending the student home amounted to religious discrimination, contrary to the Constitution.

“Articles 32 and 37 are clear, and the Constitution guarantees the right to religious freedom and expression, including the right to wear religious attire.

“Individuals cannot be forced to act against their beliefs, and they cannot be denied access to public service, including education, because of their religious dress,” Duale reiterated.

The Health CS added that the courts had already delivered a ruling on the matter and requested that the student be allowed back to school.

Duale argued that students’ dress code should be the least concern of teachers and referred to the directive by President William Ruto.

“It is the President who said that people can go to school even without a uniform. As the government, we will not take that lightly,” he remarked.

The CS added that students belonging to the Akorino faith should be allowed to wear their headgear, and those who are Sikhs should also wear their turbans.

He maintained that all schools should uphold the principles of inclusivity, tolerance, and respect for all faiths.

While Duale may be right about the freedom of religious expression, the Supreme Court ruled in 2019 that schools can ban the hijab, or any other religious attire.

The Apex Court determined that individual schools have the right to determine their own dress codes to maintain discipline.

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