Mwakilishi News Bulletin - Evening Edition, Thursday 01 October 2026

Evening Edition for Thursday, 01 October 2026. Running time 9:04.

In this bulletin

Immigration News

U.S. revokes 250,000 visas under new immigration policy

Kenya News

World News

Business News

Proposed bill targets illegal foreign currency hoarding in Kenya

Real Estate News

Affordable housing prices rise by up to Ksh600,000 in Kenya

Transcript

This is the news from Mwakilishi.com.

Good evening. It's 6 o'clock this evening on Thursday, the first of October, and here is your evening edition.

Coming up.

US immigration revokes 250,000 visas, impacting many.

Turkana oil production set to commence by December.

Botswana faces criticism for elephant hunting during celebrations.

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

Turning to immigration news, the United States has enacted sweeping changes to its immigration policy, revoking around 250,000 visas. Effective from October first, twenty twenty-six, these changes impact various visa categories, including employment, student, and family-sponsored visas. Announced by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the move aims to tighten immigration controls and prioritize national security. The restructuring reflects a significant focus of President Donald Trump's administration during his second term. Supporters argue it safeguards the nation and upholds immigration laws, while critics warn of potential humanitarian and economic repercussions. They express concerns over family separations, disruptions to education, and impacts on businesses dependent on foreign talent. The U.S. immigration system faces scrutiny as stakeholders react to these developments.

Turning to Kenya, President William Ruto has announced plans to begin crude oil extraction in Turkana before year-end. Speaking from State House in Mombasa, Ruto highlighted the move as part of broader efforts to expand Kenya’s oil industry. The government, in collaboration with Nigerian businessman Aliko Dangote, aims to invest in a pipeline linking Turkana’s oil fields to a proposed refinery in Lamu. The East African Oil Refinery, expected to process up to seven hundred thousand barrels per day, will source oil from other countries to meet its capacity. Ruto's vision includes producing petroleum products for local markets and exporting to regional nations. The refinery, estimated at around two trillion shillings, is set for completion by twenty thirty, marking a significant step in Kenya's petroleum and industrial development.

Staying with Kenya, a new agreement with Rwanda is set to increase fuel traffic through the Northern Corridor by tenfold. This corridor is a key trade route from Mombasa to neighboring countries. The deal aims to enhance economic ties between Kenya and Rwanda, streamlining supply chains and reducing transportation costs. Kenya's infrastructure expansion aligns with its goal to become a regional trade hub. Rwanda's involvement underscores its commitment to regional integration. The increased fuel traffic is expected to open new opportunities in energy and trade sectors. As trade dynamics shift, Kenya emphasizes such agreements to bolster economic resilience and prosperity. The development is poised to strengthen ties within the East African Community, benefiting businesses and consumers across the region.

In world news, controversial Zimbabwean businessman Wicknell Munodaani Chivayo, known for his lavish lifestyle and political connections, died in a helicopter crash on Wednesday. Chivayo, often dubbed Mr. Moneybags, was a prominent figure in Zimbabwe’s business scene, notably for his government tender dealings. His death has sent shockwaves through the country, where opinions on his legacy are mixed. While some admired his entrepreneurial success, others criticized him for alleged corrupt practices. Chivayo's public persona was marked by luxury and high-profile connections, making him a polarizing figure. His life and sudden death underscore broader discussions on governance and corruption in Africa. The incident highlights the complex interplay between business and politics in the region, sparking reflection on the challenges African economies face.

Also in world news, Botswana is facing global backlash for authorizing the hunting of twenty-three elephants during its independence celebrations. The decision, aimed at providing meat for festivities, has outraged conservationists who see it as a setback for regional wildlife preservation. Botswana, home to the world's largest elephant population, is known for its biodiversity and conservation efforts. Critics argue that such hunts threaten long-term elephant population stability and ecosystem health. The elephants' crucial role in maintaining habitat balance makes their removal environmentally consequential. As international condemnation grows, conservationists are urging Botswana to reassess its hunting policies. They stress the need for sustainable practices that harmonize cultural traditions with wildlife protection, ensuring biodiversity is preserved for future generations.

Staying in world news, escalating violence in Ethiopia's Tigray region has reportedly resulted in fifty-two civilian deaths, according to the BBC. This uptick in conflict extends to adjacent areas, complicating the situation and affecting tourism. The historic town of Lalibela, known for its rock-hewn churches, has seen tourists stranded due to intensifying fighting. The conflict, ongoing since November twenty twenty, highlights the severe humanitarian toll and regional instability. Previous ceasefire negotiations have failed to address underlying political and ethnic tensions. The current violence threatens to unravel any peace efforts, with potential impacts on neighboring regions. Additionally, the conflict's effect on tourism underscores broader economic implications for Ethiopia, a nation reliant on this sector. International observers emphasize the urgent need for conflict resolution and humanitarian aid.

In business news, a new bill proposes hefty penalties for Kenyans unlawfully hoarding foreign currency. Sponsored by Rongai MP Paul Abuor, the Central Bank of Kenya (Amendment) Bill, twenty twenty-six, suggests fines of up to one million shillings or ten-year prison sentences. The bill aims to address speculative currency accumulation, particularly during elections, which can strain the foreign exchange market. While it doesn't prohibit holding foreign currency, it seeks to regulate hoarding practices that may lead to market shortages. Critics in Parliament question the potential reintroduction of foreign exchange controls, previously abandoned for a market-driven system. The debate highlights concerns over currency stability and economic policy during politically sensitive times, with implications for businesses reliant on imported goods and international transactions.

In real estate news, Kenya’s Affordable Housing Programme has seen price hikes, with some units rising by as much as six hundred thousand shillings. Starting October first, twenty twenty-six, new applications face increased costs under revised pricing. Affordable Housing units have jumped twenty percent, while Market Housing units rose ten percent. A two-bedroom Affordable unit now costs three point six million shillings, up from three million. Studio and one-bedroom apartments have also seen significant increases. The adjustments affect new applicants, preserving previous rates for those already in the process. This shift impacts household financial planning, challenging prospective buyers. The government aims to continue providing affordable options while managing market dynamics. The changes underscore ongoing efforts to address housing demands and economic conditions in Kenya’s real estate sector.

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

Have a good evening.

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