State Department Warns Kenyans Over Fake Malaysia Job Advert Promising Ksh 85,000 Salaries

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February 25, 2026

The State Department for Diaspora Affairs has cautioned Kenyans against falling victim to fraudulent overseas job advertisements promising attractive salaries of up to Ksh80,000 per month.

In an update on Wednesday, February 25, the department flagged as fake a viral poster circulating on social media that claims to offer multiple employment opportunities in Malaysia across various sectors.

The poster lists positions such as factory workers, plant operators, caregivers, hospitality staff, warehouse workers, drivers, and cleaners, all allegedly offering salaries ranging between Ksh65,000 and Ksh90,000.

Authorities noted that the individuals behind the advertisement are not licensed recruitment agents and have not been approved to facilitate overseas employment.

Earlier in the month, the State Department for Diaspora Affairs has issued a warning to Kenyans seeking jobs abroad, cautioning them against two agencies claiming to be recruiting job seekers for overseas placements.

In a statement on Monday, February 9, State Department for Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu said the agencies are not licensed.

“It has come to our attention that these outfits, Triple K and Kenka Company, who are not licensed are trying to recruit people for diaspora jobs,” she said.

File image of Diaspora Affairs Principal Secretary Roseline Njogu

Njogu warned that engaging with such agencies could expose job seekers to serious risks, including falling victim to human trafficking schemes.

“Do not fall for this scam. You could be a victim of human trafficking. These fliers are circulating on various WhatsApp groups. Always confirm that you’re working with a licensed agent through National Employment Authority Integrated Management System (NEAMIS),” she added.

Prior to that, the Ministry of Labour uncovered a fraudulent overseas recruitment scheme involving forged documents and an unlicensed recruitment network targeting Kenyans seeking jobs in Oman.

In a statement on Friday, January 30, Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua said the scheme involved the recruitment of three women, Jeneffer, Matilda, and Caroline, who were scheduled to travel to Oman under what has now been confirmed as a fake process.

According to the report, the recruitment was conducted outside Kenya’s legal labour migration framework and relied on falsified government clearances.

The three job seekers were processed through an informal network rather than a licensed recruitment agency.

The primary local contact, Elijah’s Ticketing Tours, admitted to not holding a recruitment license, claiming instead that he only handled ticketing and reservations for what he described as ‘direct hires.’

The report further names a Mohamed, allegedly based in Oman, as the foreign recruiter, while the local contact claimed that labour clearance and contract attestation were being handled by a supposed Ministry of Labour official identified as ‘Raphael.’

However, investigations by the Ministry exposed multiple red flags.

“Verification with the Ministry’s Attestation Department confirmed that no officer by the name of Mr. Raphael exists within that unit. The stamps used on the recruitment documents are fake and did not originate from the Ministry of Labour,” the report read.

US Representative Al Green says he confronted Trump over Obama video

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Editor

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February 25, 2026

Democratic U.S. Representative Al Green said he confronted President Donald Trump at his State of the Union speech over a “deplorable” video on the Republican’s social media account earlier this month depicting former President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama as apes.

As Trump entered the House chamber, Green, of Texas, unfurled a white sign that read: “Black people aren’t apes.” The White House eventually took down the video and Trump said a staffer had posted it.

“I wanted him to know that portraying President Obama and First Lady Obama as members of the primate family is not only unacceptable, it is something that is deplorable and something we will not tolerate,” Green said in an interview with Reuters in the Capitol after being ejected from Trump’s speech.

Green, who first came to the House in 2005, said he positioned himself inside the House chamber at a seat on the aisle that Trump would have to walk up on his way to the podium.

It was the second year in a row Green was ejected from Trump’s speech to Congress, after having yelled at him during last year’s address.

“Judging from the look on his face that he turned away quickly, he was at a moment of vulnerability because he’s not confronted by people who are willing to speak truth to him,” Green said.

Asked whether he could face additional punishment from the Republican-controlled House, Green responded that he did not know but “The consequences are subservient to what happened.”

By Anthony Solly

Trump lays out case for possible attack on Iran in State of the Union

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Editor

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February 25, 2026

U.S. President Donald Trump briefly laid out his case for a possible attack on Iran in his State of the Union speech to Congress on Tuesday, saying he would not allow the world’s biggest sponsor of terrorism to have a nuclear weapon.

Even while assembling a massive military force in the Middle East, Trump has done little to explain to the American public why he might be leading the U.S. into its most aggressive action against the Islamic Republic since its 1979 revolution.

In his speech, Trump pointed to Tehran’s support for militant groups, its killing of protesters and the country’s missile and nuclear programs as threats to the region and the United States.

“The (Iranian) regime and its murderous proxies have spread nothing but terrorism and death and hate,” the Republican president said about 90 minutes into his annual address to a joint session of the Senate and House of Representatives.

He accused Iran of restarting its nuclear program, working to build missiles that “soon” would be capable of reaching the United States and of being responsible for roadside bombings that have killed U.S. service members and civilians.

Iranian state media have claimed that Tehran is developing a missile capable of reaching North America.

The run-up to Trump’s address was overshadowed by the buildup of U.S. military forces in the Middle East and preparations for a possible conflict with Iran that could last for weeks if Tehran does not reach a deal to solve a longstanding dispute over its nuclear program.

Trump has repeatedly expressed frustration with negotiators’ failure to reach an agreement. “They want to make a deal, but we haven’t heard those secret words, ‘We will never have a nuclear weapon,'” Trump said in his speech.

By Anthony Solly

Court Adjourns Rex Maasai Death Case as Prosecution Heads for 2 Week Training

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Editor

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February 25, 2026

By Andrew Kariuki

The hearing of the case of the death of Rex Maasai during the 2024 anti-Finance Bill protests has been postponed after the prosecution sought more time to prepare.

Appearing before Magistrate Geoffrey Onsarigo, the prosecution applied for an adjournment, stating that members of the prosecution team would be engaged in a two-week training programme and would therefore be unavailable to proceed with the matter.

“We seek an adjournment to ensure a proper way forward in the conduct of this case. We pray for the court’s indulgence,” the prosecution told the court.

Counsel representing the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Shadrack Mwangi, did not oppose the request.

Other defence counsel, including Mwangi Chege, also indicated that they had no objection to the adjournment.

Following the consensus among all parties, the court allowed the application and directed that the matter be scheduled for hearing on the earliest available dates.

The parties subsequently agreed on March 25, 26 and 30, 2026 as the new hearing dates.

The case arises from the death of Rex Maasai, who died during the 2024 nationwide protests against the Finance Bill, an incident that sparked public outrage and raised concerns over police conduct during the demonstrations.

The matter is expected to proceed once the prosecution team resumes, as the court continues to hear evidence surrounding the circumstances leading to Maasai’s death.

10 Suspects Arrested Over Linda Mwananchi Rally Chaos Freed on Ksh 30,000 Bond

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Editor

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February 25, 2026

By Andrew Kariuki

Ten suspects arrested in connection with violent scenes that disrupted the Linda Mwananchi rally have been released on bond after appearing before a Kisumu court.

The group was arraigned before Chief Magistrate Benson Ireri at the Kisumu Law Courts, where they denied the charges brought against them.

They are facing felony charges linked to alleged political violence during the rally.

The court granted each of the accused a bond of Ksh 30,000 with a surety of a similar amount, or an alternative cash bail of Ksh 10,000.

In his ruling, Magistrate Ireri declined a request by the prosecution to detain the suspects for an additional 14 days to allow police to complete investigations.

The prosecution had argued that more time was needed to analyze evidence and conclude inquiries.

However, the magistrate ruled that there were no sufficient grounds to deny the suspects their constitutional right to bail.

He noted that the accused persons did not pose a threat to public safety and that investigations could continue while they are out on bond.

The court further observed that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) remains at liberty to proceed with its inquiries, including the examination of the suspects’ mobile phones and other evidence.

According to the charge sheet, the suspects were arrested in Kisumu after DCI officers reportedly trailed them on suspicion that they were planning acts of violence.

Police stated that a search of a saloon car the group was travelling in led to the recovery of several crude weapons, including knives and daggers.

The accused persons were identified as Shadrack Aula, Collins Omondi, Patrick Bunde, Earnest Masheti, Silas Odero, Dickson Ochieng, Hemile Omondi, Clifford Juma, David Omolo and Pater Okoth.

The case is scheduled to be mentioned on March 14, 2026, as investigations continue.

IEBC Announces 12,520 Job Opportunities; How to Apply

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John Mutiso

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February 25, 2026

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has announced 12,520 temporary job opportunities for Kenyans.

In a notice on Wednesday, February 25, IEBC said it will be undertaking a 30-day Enhanced Voter Registration Exercise (ECVR) at the ward level and is seeking suitable candidates to fill temporary positions during the period.

“To facilitate the efficient and effective delivery of this nationwide exercise, the Commission invites applications from suitably qualified candidates to fill temporary positions for the duration of the ECVR period,” read the notice.

The job vacancies include: voter registration assistants, 1,450, voter Registration Clerks, 10,780 and ICT Clerks 290.

Applicants are required to hold Kenyan citizenship, be aged 19 years and above, hold a minimum KCSE C- (minus) or its equivalent and possess computer literacy and ICT skills.

The applicants are also required to demonstrate integrity, accountability and confidentiality.

How to Apply

Interested candidates are required to submit their applications via the IEBC’s jobs portal; https://jobs.iebc.or.ke.

The deadline for submitting the applications is March 4, 2026.

The commission warned that any canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification.

“Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and any canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification,” IEBC stated.

Successful candidates will be required to present copies of the national identification card, academic certificates and any other relevant testimonials

Further, the electoral body said successful applicants will be required to undergo training and take an oath of secrecy.

APA Introduces Cyber Crime Cover Amid Rising Attacks

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Editor

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February 25, 2026

On February 24-25, 2026, APA Insurance officially launched a new Cyber Insurance product in Kenya to help businesses mitigate the surging threat of digital attacks, including hacking, ransomware, and data breaches.

The product is designed for both large corporates and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), addressing the reality that cyber risk is now a strategic board-level issue rather than just a technical one.

Protection against malware, ransomware (cyber extortion), denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, and data breaches.
Covers insider misuse, third-party breaches, and downstream losses affecting partners or customers.

Access to incident response specialists, forensic investigators, legal advisory, and crisis communication support to manage reputational damage.

Provides a cushion against financial losses and regulatory penalties, particularly important as compliance with the Kenya Data Protection Act tightens.

Context of the LaunchIndustry experts note that Kenyan SMEs typically lose between Sh2 million to Sh15 million per hack, while large corporates can face hits of up to Sh50 million.

The launch follows a reported 441% increase in attempted breaches in Kenya during the final quarter of 2025.

Group CEO Ashok Shah emphasized that with multi-million shilling ransom demands becoming common, cyber security must be integrated into fundamental business continuity planning.

By Anthony Solly

Construction of SGR Phase 2B & 2C from Naivasha to Malaba through Kisumu to begin in March

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John Mutiso

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February 25, 2026

Kisumu Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o has announced that the construction of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) from Naivasha to Kisumu will begin in March 2026.

In an update on Tuesday, February 24, Governor Nyong’o said the extension of the SGR is now set to move into the implementation stage.

The Kisumu County boss noted that the project will include 83 kilometers within the county.

“Construction of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) Phase 2B & 2C from Naivasha to Kisumu and onward to Malaba is expected to begin in March,” said Nyong’o.

“The 269-kilometre extension from Suswa/Naivasha to Kisumu will include approximately 83 kilometres within Kisumu County, running from Sondu through Ahero to Kisumu Town and continuing toward Malaba via Kisumu West Sub-County,” said Nyong’o.

File image of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).

Governor Nyong’o made the announcement following a consultative meeting with MPs and MCAs from affected areas in Kisumu County.

The meeting also brought together officials from the Kenya Railways, National Land Commission, and the National Government.

Governor Nyong’o disclosed that the discussions focused on compensation for people who will be affected, youth participation in construction, and other project impacts.

“We resolved that all relevant agencies will conduct grassroots consultations in local villages as implementation begins,” Nyong’o added.

Meanwhile, Kenya Railways has announced that the proposed SGR Phase 2B project will include 79 railway bridges, 8 tunnels, 376 culverts, and 26 stations in the initial phase.

The project will also have an 8.68-kilometre branch line linking the main railway to the proposed Kisumu Port.

On November 8, 2025, Transport CS Davis Chirchir said the government is planning to utilize the Railway Development Levy (RDL) to finance the extension of the SGR to Malaba.

CS Chirchir also said they are exploring options of issuing a bond or seeking loans from development banks.

“We will basically look at financial markets and the available instruments, leveraging, of course, on the (RDLF) revenues. A railway should attract long-term borrowing, and we are looking at a 15-year facility; the 2 per cent RDLF charge is sufficient to support us,” he stated.

The extension of the 475-kilometre SGR line is estimated to cost the government Ksh645.8 billion ($5billion).

The Naivasha–Malaba SGR will pass through Narok, Bomet, Nyamira, Kisumu, and Busia counties.

MPs Warn Treasury Over Rising Domestic Borrowing in New Debt Plan

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John Mutiso

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February 25, 2026

Members of Parliament have raised concerns over the National Treasury’s new borrowing framework, warning that the government’s growing appetite for domestic debt could strain the economy and crowd out the private sector.

The concerns emerged when National Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo appeared before the Public Debt and Privatization Committee on Tuesday, February 24.

The proposed strategy outlines a net financing plan comprising 78 percent domestic borrowing and 22 percent external borrowing.

Kiptoo defended the approach, maintaining that the government remains on the right fiscal path despite the heavy tilt toward domestic financing.

However, lawmakers questioned the sustainability and rationale behind the strategy, arguing that domestic borrowing remains costly and risks limiting access to credit for businesses and households.

Kinangop MP Thuku Kwenya challenged the government’s borrowing levels, especially in light of earlier proposals to divest from key state assets such as Safaricom and privatize Kenya Pipeline Company.

“Looking at your debt strategy and the level at which we are borrowing, it doesn’t reflect what we envisaged by the sale of these critical assets. I thought we would now go slow on borrowing, but domestic debt is now growing to unprecedented heights,” he said.

Samburu North MP Eli Letipila expressed concern over the cost of servicing domestic debt, noting that repayment projections show it could consume 41 percent of ordinary revenue.

He warned that this level of obligation could further burden an already strained economy.

“Settling for domestic debt with all the indications of its financial implication is an indicator of the external market no longer favoring us, or is it our debt appetite?” he asked.

Mosop MP Abraham Kirwa also questioned the government’s motives in selling national assets while debt levels continue to rise.

“What is the motivation of selling the national assets? I thought it was to reduce our debts, but instead it is going up, and assets are being sold,” he stated.

In response, Kiptoo maintained that the Treasury carefully evaluates borrowing options by weighing costs and risks.

He argued that although domestic debt has historically been expensive, interest rates are now declining sharply and are approaching the 7 percent rate associated with foreign loans.

“We do weigh both options and consider what is happening now and in the future. We are certain we can raise funds from the domestic market rather than the external market. We also need to remember, domestic borrowing circulates money within our economy,” he responded.

Addressing fears that government borrowing is crowding out private sector access to credit, Public Debt Management Office Director General Rafael Otieno told lawmakers that sufficient credit exists within the economy.

He attributed limited lending to high interest rates rather than government borrowing levels.

Details of the Duchess of Edinburgh’s Visit to Kenya

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John Mutiso

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February 25, 2026

The Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie Helen, is in Kenya to champion the role women play in preventing and resolving conflicts.

Sophie, who flew into the country after a two-day visit to Somalia, will also be celebrating Kenyan women leaders across various sectors, including security, peacebuilding, and business.

According to her itinerary released by the British High Commission in Nairobi, Her Royal Highness will meet President William Ruto to discuss ongoing cooperation under the UK–Kenya Strategic Partnership.

”Discussions will include support for women building peace and stability, the importance of women in decision making and the Government of Kenya’s efforts to implement the Women, Peace and Security agenda through its National Action Plan. In addition, the Duchess will engage senior women leaders in the Kenyan Government”, the statement said.

Speaking on the arrival of The Duchess, UK Chargé d’Affaires, Dr Ed Barnett said: “The United Kingdom is proud to stand alongside Kenya in advancing the Women, Peace and Security agenda. Women are driving peace, stability and economic progress in every part of this country, and their leadership is essential to resilient communities and inclusive growth. This visit reflects our shared commitment to making women central to the Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership – we’re going far, together.”

The Duchess will also engage with women business leaders and entrepreneurs and will see how Kenyan businesswomen are breaking the glass ceiling in the business sector.

The Duchess will meet women peacebuilders working at the heart of community resilience to understand the central role women play in preventing and resolving conflict, bridging community divides, and strengthening local stability.

This will include Sudanese women peace builders to highlight the impact of conflict-related sexual violence on women and girls, as well as advocating for better protections, justice and accountability.

“The visit provides an important platform to champion the Women, Peace and Security agenda in Kenya as well as to recognise women’s leadership in all aspects of the Kenya-UK Strategic Partnership”, the British High Commission added.

Sophie completed a two-day visit to Somalia, at the request of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, to draw attention to the ongoing issue of conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV) in the region and highlight the voices of survivors.

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