Mwakilishi News Bulletin - Midday Edition, Tuesday 15 September 2026

Midday Edition for Tuesday, 15 September 2026. Running time 9:18.

In this bulletin

Diaspora News

Immigration News

Kenya News

World News

Business News

Court Rules Safaricom Share Sale Illegal

Real Estate News

Deadline Approaches for Affordable Housing Applications

Transcript

This is the news from Mwakilishi.com.

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

Coming up.

Kenya to host World Athletics Championships in 2029, an African first.

Uhuru Kenyatta accepts court ruling on Jubilee leadership.

Saudi Arabia faces tough decisions amid Houthi conflict.

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

Turning to diaspora news, Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs, Roseline Njogu, met with Lady Justice Monica Mbaru to discuss improved protections for Kenyans working overseas. Held in Nairobi, the focus was on improving access to justice and fair treatment abroad, particularly concerning recruitment practices. This meeting, ahead of the fourth Employment and Labour Relations Annual Symposium, underscores the risks faced by Kenyans abroad, including exploitation and complex legal challenges, highlighting the need for stronger institutional cooperation.

Kenyans in the Middle East will join a webinar on turning remittances into investments back home. The session, hosted by the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, aims to guide diaspora members in building long-term wealth through investment opportunities in Kenya. The event, part of efforts to engage the diaspora in national development, emphasizes using earnings for asset building. Participants can register through ministry platforms, reinforcing the diaspora's crucial role in economic development.

A woman in Juja faces heartbreak after losing four of her five newborn quintuplets. The premature birth caught the family by surprise, expecting only quadruplets. The surviving infant remains in critical condition, drawing public sympathy. This tragedy highlights the challenges of multiple births and the importance of prenatal care. As the family mourns, discussions on maternal health and support systems for families with multiple births have gained attention, emphasizing the need for community and healthcare support.

In immigration news, a proposal to introduce fees for the US Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme has completed White House review. US Immigration and Customs Enforcement submitted the proposal, which could impact F-1 visa holders. Although no fee has been set, concerns arise over potential costs affecting international students' employment plans. The next step involves public commentary before a final decision. OPT provides crucial work opportunities post-study, and changes could significantly impact international graduates.

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services plans to end the 60-day grace period for nonimmigrant workers. This move could impact African professionals, including Kenyans, in the US. The grace period currently allows time for job transitions or visa status changes. Without it, workers may face immediate deportation. Concerns are rising, as this policy change reflects broader immigration control efforts under President Trump's administration. Stakeholders, including the Kenya Diaspora Alliance, are monitoring the situation closely.

In Kenyan news, former President Uhuru Kenyatta will step down from Jubilee Party leadership following a High Court ruling. Justice Lawrence Mugambi's decision prevents retired presidents from holding party leadership roles after six months out of office. Uhuru respects the ruling, seeing it as a democratic affirmation. He plans a transparent transition within the party, emphasizing leadership based on trust. The court ruling reinforces limits on political influence by former heads of state, impacting Jubilee's internal dynamics.

In a legal development, Titus Miriti Munjuri, former CEO of Dhabiti Sacco, faces charges for allegedly stealing about twenty point seven million shillings. Charged in Maua Court, this case highlights financial mismanagement concerns within Kenyan cooperatives. Saccos play a crucial role in community finance, but misappropriation issues persist. The outcome of this case may prompt regulatory reforms and stricter scrutiny, aiming to enhance transparency and accountability. Stakeholders hope for improved governance in the cooperative sector.

Odinga's family is planning activities to mark the first death anniversary of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga. Led by Professor Adams Oloo, the committee will oversee events in Nairobi honoring Odinga’s legacy. Known for his political contributions and efforts to stabilize Kenya post-2007 elections, Odinga's influence extends beyond Kenya. His commitment to democracy resonates across Africa. The commemorations will highlight Kenya's democratic progress and ongoing challenges, reflecting Odinga's impact on political movements in the continent.

Supporters of Linda Mwananchi gathered in large numbers at Jacaranda Grounds, Nairobi, for a significant political rally. The event showcased the movement's growing influence, attracting thousands and indicating robust political mobilization. With music, speeches, and vibrant support, the rally energized attendees. Analysts see this as a demonstration of the movement's organizational strength and potential to impact Kenya's political dynamics. The event underscores the movement's ability to connect with voters, shaping future governance and representation.

In world news, Saudi Arabia faces tough choices as the conflict with Houthi rebels intensifies. The situation presents strategic challenges as Riyadh considers military responses. The Houthis, backed by Iran, have escalated attacks, prompting Saudi evaluations of options like aerial bombardments. Each carries risks that could destabilize the region. Saudi Arabia must balance military actions with diplomatic efforts, considering humanitarian impacts. The conflict's outcome could reshape Middle East alliances and influence global geopolitical dynamics.

As Kenya prepares for the 2027 elections, rigging allegations are raising concerns about electoral integrity. Discussions focus on potential vote manipulation, echoing past electoral challenges in 2007 and 2017. The integrity of Kenya's elections is crucial for regional stability. The electoral commission faces pressure to ensure credible processes. Observers and the international community are watching closely, as political tensions rise. Ensuring transparency and fairness is essential to prevent unrest and maintain public confidence in the electoral system.

In business news, the High Court has voided the government's sale of a fifteen percent stake in Safaricom to Vodacom, citing constitutional breaches. The court found the sale lacked necessary approvals and transparency, ruling the shares must revert to state ownership. The government's plans for the two hundred four point three billion shillings from the sale were questioned, lacking detailed funding specifics. This ruling emphasizes the importance of adhering to legal frameworks in public asset transactions.

Kenyans have until the end of September to apply for affordable housing before prices rise on October first, twenty twenty-six. The State Department for Housing and Urban Development urges applicants to act quickly to secure current rates. Prices for housing units will be reviewed, though new rates are yet to be announced. The current programme offers social housing for those earning up to nineteen thousand nine hundred ninety-nine shillings, with affordable options for higher earners.

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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