Mwakilishi News Bulletin - Midday Edition, Thursday 03 September 2026

Midday Edition for Thursday, 03 September 2026. Running time 9:28.

In this bulletin

Diaspora News

Immigration News

US citizenship process harder for permanent residents

Kenya News

World News

Real Estate News

300 Mukuru residents to get affordable houses

Lifestyle News

Entertainment News

MP Oscar Sudi supports comedian Jemutai after appeal

Transcript

This is the news from Mwakilishi.com.

Good afternoon. It's midday on Thursday, the third of September, and here is your midday edition.

Coming up.

Kenyan-born drag artist makes history on RuPaul's Drag Race.

Kenya Judiciary examines legal protections for overseas job seekers.

US judge blocks Trump's move against birthright citizenship.

Those stories, and more, in the next few minutes.

Turning to diaspora news, Kenyan-born drag artist Mercedes Iman Diamond made history as the first Muslim contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2019. Raised in the US, she showcased her East African heritage on the show. Her story highlights the challenges faced by immigrants, especially Muslims, in America. Despite health issues, including strokes, Mercedes continues to thrive in her career, bringing her Kenyan identity to a global audience.

Staying with diaspora news, Kenya’s Judiciary is hosting a webinar on legal protections for Kenyans seeking jobs abroad. The Employment and Labour Relations Court leads this event with stakeholders like the State Department for Diaspora Affairs. Discussions cover recruitment, workers’ rights, and dispute resolution in international labour migration. The Judiciary aims to strengthen frameworks for protecting migrant workers amid rising overseas employment and concerns about recruitment fraud and contract exploitation.

Turning to immigration news, permanent residents in the US face increasing challenges in obtaining citizenship. The National Foundation for American Policy notes higher denial rates and longer processing times. Proposed fee hikes could make applications unaffordable. Employment-based immigration queues are also growing, with some Indian applicants facing theoretical waits of over a century. These developments raise concerns about the accessibility and fairness of the naturalisation process in the US.

Turning to Kenya news, the government is taking action to address a recent milk supply decline. The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development links the drop to limited rainfall. Measures include working with feed manufacturers and considering duty-free maize imports. The Kenya Dairy Board is enhancing oversight to ensure fair returns for farmers. These efforts aim to curb shortages and maintain stable milk prices amid a 3.7% drop in deliveries to processors.

Also in Kenya news, a Standard Group editor was found safe after an abduction near Masinga Dam. This incident highlights the dangers faced by journalists in Kenya. Inspector General Japheth Kanja has ordered a thorough investigation, emphasizing no one is above the law. With recent violent crimes in the news, concerns about press freedom and public safety grow. The investigation's outcome may set a precedent for handling future journalist safety threats.

In more Kenya news, political tensions flare in Machakos County as Governor Wavinya Ndeti clashed with MCAs over budget cuts. The MCAs reduced the county's Sh17.8 billion budget, sparking Wavinya's frustration. This incident underscores governance challenges at the county level. Analysts see such confrontations as common in Kenyan politics, reflecting power struggles and disagreements over priorities. The situation emphasizes the importance of budget allocations for public services and development projects.

Finally from Kenya, Sh23.5 billion invested in industrial parks is under scrutiny for potential mismanagement. Reports suggest funds were not effectively utilized, raising concerns about transparency and accountability. Critics argue that this undermines economic growth efforts. Authorities are urged to investigate and ensure responsible management of public resources. This financial controversy highlights the challenges in fostering a conducive business environment amid ongoing demands for economic development and job creation in Kenya.

Turning to world news, the Hamas-run health ministry reports over 900 deaths in Gaza this year despite a ceasefire. Since October tenth, the death toll exceeds 1,300, with 301 children among the victims. The ongoing conflict draws international concern, especially with the humanitarian crisis. This situation resonates with Kenyans tied to the Middle East, highlighting the urgent need for a sustainable resolution to the violence affecting civilians, particularly children, in the region.

In more world news, a U.S. judge has blocked President Donald Trump’s attempt to limit birthright citizenship, following a Supreme Court ruling that declared it unconstitutional. The move targeted the 14th Amendment, which grants citizenship to all born in the U.S. This legal setback underscores the judiciary's role in protecting constitutional rights. The ruling has significant implications globally and highlights ongoing immigration policy tensions in the U.S., influencing future legislative efforts.

Finally in world news, Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka expressed concerns about Kenya’s electoral body ahead of the 2027 elections. Meeting with British High Commissioner Matt Baugh, Musyoka questioned the IEBC's preparedness. With Kenya's elections historically scrutinized, the commission's operational capacity is crucial. The UK and other partners have vested interests in transparent elections. As the elections near, the IEBC faces pressure to ensure efficient management and address election-related gender violence concerns.

Turning to real estate news, about 300 Mukuru residents who missed out on affordable housing units will be prioritized in a fresh allocation. The Affordable Housing Board's CEO, Joe Mutugu, confirmed the verification of applicants to ensure genuine residents are included. Previously, residents complained of paying deposits without guaranteed units. The board plans to reclassify some units as social housing. This development is part of the Boma Yangu initiative, addressing housing demand exceeding supply.

Turning to lifestyle news, Dr Benson Kibore has petitioned Parliament to recognize chronic sexual dysfunction as a disability. He argues that conditions like erectile dysfunction affect mental health and family stability. A study found over 10% of young men in Nairobi face such issues. Dr Kibore links untreated dysfunction to marital dissatisfaction and family breakdown. If approved, legal changes would allow affected individuals to access support and tax exemptions under existing disability laws.

In more lifestyle news, a Sh129 million project addressing sickle cell disease in three Kenyan counties has been endorsed. This initiative aims to improve healthcare services for affected communities. While specific counties weren't named, the endorsement underscores a commitment to tackling this hereditary disorder. The project is part of broader efforts to enhance healthcare access. Stakeholders are optimistic about improved health education, screening, and treatment options for those living with sickle cell disease.

Turning to entertainment news, MP Oscar Sudi has offered support to comedian Jemutai following her public appeal for assistance. Jemutai, known for her comedic talent, has faced personal struggles, prompting her to seek help. Sudi's involvement reflects a trend of public figures supporting peers in need. This support might provide Jemutai with resources and encouragement to navigate her challenges. As the situation develops, it highlights the importance of solidarity in Kenya's entertainment industry.

And that is your midday edition. The next bulletin is at 6 o'clock this evening. You can read every one of these stories in full, and much more besides, at Mwakilishi.com.

Have a good afternoon.

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