The County Champion Newspaper

01/06/2026

UPDATE
MBARIRE CALLS FOR REVIEW OF LAIKIPIA QUARANTINE CENTRE DECISION, URGES VIGILANCE AGAINST MPOX
By Brian Malila in Embu
Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire has called on the national government to review its decision to establish a quarantine centre in Laikipia County, saying concerns raised by Kenyans over the facility should be carefully considered before implementation.

Speaking during Madaraka Day celebrations today Monday 1st June 2026 at Nembure Grounds in Manyatta Constituency, Mbarire said the proposed centre has sparked concern among members of the public who fear it could expose the country to health risks.

"The concerns being raised by Kenyans should not be ignored. The government should review this decision and ensure all issues surrounding the proposed quarantine centre are adequately addressed," said Mbarire.

The governor noted that many citizens are worried about the potential implications of the facility and are seeking assurance that proper safeguards have been put in place.

" Reviewing this decision will allow all stakeholders to assess the possible consequences and arrive at a well-informed decision," she added.

Mbarire, who is also the Chairperson of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Party, said public confidence is critical when making decisions touching on health and national security.

She urged the government to engage experts, local communities and other stakeholders before making a final determination on the matter.

"The health and safety of Kenyans must remain a priority. Any decision made should be one that inspires confidence among the people," she said.

At the same time, the governor called on Embu residents to remain vigilant following the confirmation of an Mpox case in the county.

She urged members of the public to familiarize themselves with the symptoms of the disease and seek medical attention immediately should they develop any suspicious signs.

"We have already recorded one case of Mpox in Embu County. I urge our residents not to panic but to remain alert and report to Embu Level Five Hospital or the nearest health facility if they notice any symptoms associated with the disease," Mbarire said.

The governor assured residents that county health officials were working closely with the national government to monitor the situation and prevent further spread of the disease. "Our health teams are on high alert and we are taking all necessary measures to safeguard the health of our people," she said.

01/06/2026

REGIONAL NEWS:
FREE AMBULANCE SERVICES FOR MAKUENI RESIDENTS FROM JULY 2026
By Cornelius Kimbui in Makueni
Makueni residents are set to benefit from free internal ambulance transfer services beginning July 1, 2026, following a landmark announcement by Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jr during this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations.

The governor revealed that the initiative, anchored in the new Finance Bill, is part of the county government’s broader commitment to ensuring that no resident is denied emergency healthcare due to financial constraints.

The policy will see all ambulance transfers within the county offered at no cost, significantly easing the burden on patients and their families during medical emergencies.

To strengthen service delivery, the County Government of Makueni, in partnership with ENI, will roll out a comprehensive ambulance tracking system.

The system is designed to enhance accountability and efficiency by monitoring ambulance movements, curbing fuel misuse, preventing reckless and drunk driving, and promoting responsible use of emergency vehicles.

Governor Kilonzo emphasized that the intervention reflects his administration’s dedication to building a compassionate, accessible, and people-centered healthcare system.

He noted that the reforms will not only improve emergency response times but also ensure patient safety and restore public confidence in county health services.

The announcement was met with optimism among residents, who view the initiative as a major step toward equitable healthcare access across Makueni County.

01/06/2026

NATIONAL NEWS:
NORTHERN KENYA TURNS A NEW PAGE AS RUTO OFFERS APOLOGY AND UNVEILS TRANSFORMATION AGENDA
By Champion Writer
President William Ruto has described this year’s Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir County as a defining moment in his lifetime and political journey, marking what he termed a bold step toward addressing decades of historical injustice in Northern Kenya.

Speaking during the national celebrations, the President acknowledged that the region has long endured systemic neglect rooted in policy decisions dating back to Sessional Paper No. 10 of 1965.

“For far too long, the people of Northern Kenya bore the burden of State-sanctioned neglect,” he said, noting that the consequences have included prolonged marginalisation, chronic under-investment, and missed opportunities across generations.

In a rare and symbolic move, President Ruto issued an official apology on behalf of the Government and the Republic of Kenya.

“On behalf of the Government and the Republic of Kenya, I extend my sincere apology to the people of Northern Kenya for the hardships and exclusion you have endured over the years,” he stated.

He commended the resilience of the region’s residents, describing their endurance as a powerful testament to their strength, patience, and patriotism despite years of adversity.

The President affirmed that his administration is charting a new course aimed at restoring equity, expanding opportunities, and fully integrating Northern Kenya into the country’s broader development agenda.

He outlined key investments across critical sectors, beginning with education, where new teacher training colleges have been established in Wajir, Kotulo, and Mandera, complementing the existing Garissa Teacher Training College. More than 4,600 trainees from the region are currently enrolled.

Additionally, the government has directed the Ministry of Education to develop a framework for integrating Duksi, Madrassa, and pastoral education programmes into the national system to better reflect local realities and cultural contexts.

In healthcare, over 800,000 residents have registered under the Social Health Authority (SHA), which has already disbursed KSh8.1 billion in claims to hospitals across Wajir, Garissa, and Mandera, significantly improving access to medical services.

The President also highlighted the Affordable Housing Programme, which is injecting KSh38.5 billion into the three counties, creating jobs and stimulating local economies.

On infrastructure, he cited the ongoing 750-kilometre Northern Kenya Gateway Corridor linking Isiolo, Wajir, and Mandera — a KSh100 billion project expected to enhance connectivity and unlock the region’s economic potential.

Further, the government is establishing a KSh5 billion County Livestock Investment Company aimed at supporting more than 350,000 pastoralists across 21 arid and semi-arid counties, enabling them to build sustainable and resilient livestock enterprises.

“These are just some of the many initiatives underway in Northern Kenya,” President Ruto said, emphasizing that no part of the country should be left behind because of geography, history, or politics.

The Wajir Madaraka Day celebrations now stand as a symbolic turning point, signalling a renewed national commitment to inclusivity, equity, and shared prosperity.

01/06/2026

NATIONAL NEWS:
LIVESTOCK SECTOR SET FOR MAJOR BOOST UNDER KSH 5 BILLION NATIONAL PROGRAMME
President William Samoei Ruto has launched a Ksh 5 billion livestock investment initiative aimed at transforming the livelihoods of more than 350,000 pastoralists across 21 Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) counties.

The programme, unveiled during the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations in Wajir County, is expected to significantly enhance livestock production, expand market access and strengthen economic resilience in pastoral regions.

Speaking at the event, the President underscored the need to accord livestock farming equal priority to crop agriculture, noting that the sector remains a critical pillar of Kenya’s economy and the main source of income for millions of households in ASAL areas.

Central to the initiative is the formation of County Livestock Investment Companies, which will organize pastoralists into structured entities capable of accessing financing, insurance, markets and value-addition opportunities.

The programme is projected to benefit over two million household members and will be implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development in partnership with county governments.

President Ruto also highlighted ongoing government efforts to modernize the livestock sector.

These include nationwide vaccination campaigns, livestock restocking programmes, expansion of local vaccine production, rangeland restoration, improved breeding initiatives and increased investment in livestock marketing infrastructure.

To strengthen extension services, the government will deploy additional agripreneurs across ASAL counties to offer technical support, facilitate market linkages and promote climate-smart livestock production systems.

The livestock investment drive forms part of a broader national strategy to position Kenya as a regional hub for livestock production and trade, while increasing exports of meat, dairy and leather products.

The initiative further reflects the government’s commitment to unlocking the economic potential of pastoral communities and accelerating the inclusion of historically marginalized regions in national development.

01/06/2026

31/05/2026

UPDATE:
LINDA MWANANCHI BRIGADE TAKE MACHAKOS TOWN BY STORM,PARALYSE ACTIVITIES
By Daniel Nzia Senior Writer
Activities in Machakos town came to a near standstill as a host of Linda Mwananchi leaders took the town by storm shortly after 3.30 pm.

Shouts of one term rent the air as thousands of supporters welcomed the team led by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna for a mammoth public rally at the town's round about area.

Motorists entering and leaving the town were forced to use alternative routes as the meeting progressed.

There were sporadic clashes between supporters of the Linda Mwananchi team and others opposed to the rally, but things had calmed down before the arrival of the visiting leaders.

Sifuna was wildly cheered when he was invited to address the crowds by Mavoko MP Patrick Makau King's ola, who was the host of the Linda Mwananchi leaders.

The Nairobi Senator said any of the Linda Mwananchi leaders were capable of defeating President William Ruto in the upcoming 2027 general election, but he hinted at the formation of a united and strong team to face Ruto.

His sentiments were echoed by the ODM party acting chairman James Orengo who underscored the importance of a meeting between Wiper Patriotic Front party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and the Linda Mwananchi leaders to form a formidable team that would send the sitting President home.

Orengo and Sifuna praised Kalonzo Musyoka for standing with the late ODM party leader Raila Odinga and said it was now time to hold his hand going forward.

Makau said the Wiper Patriotic Front party and the Linda Mwananchi team were one thing with one focus.

He declared that he is firmly in the race for the Machakos County Gubernatorial seat and asked the people of Machakos to give him a chance.

Kathiani MP Robert Mbui said he had been sent by Kalonzo Musyoka to represent him and delivered his greetings to the Linda Mwananchi leaders and wananchi.

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino announced that there will be countrywide demonstrations on Tuesday to protest against the Finance Bill 2026/2027 and the high cost of living challenges.

The leaders had earlier attended a church service at Kyanda AIC before addressing a rally at the populous Mutituni market.
Others in the entourage included Senator Richard Onyonka,Kaiti MP Joshua Kimilu and a host aspirants for various elective positions in the forthcoming general election.

31/05/2026

NATIONAL NEWS:
PARENTS DEMAND SAFER SCHOOL DORMITORIES AMID RISING FIRE TRAGEDIES
By Cornelius Kimbui
Parents across the country are calling on the government to urgently ensure that secondary school dormitories are no longer death traps for learners.

The concerns come against the backdrop of repeated tragic fire incidents that have claimed the lives of students over the years, exposing glaring safety gaps in school infrastructure.

The dormitory inferno at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil on May 28, 2026 claimed at least 16 young lives and left more than 74 students injured.

The Utumishi Girls Academy tragedy has once again raised troubling questions about overcrowded dormitories, emergency exits, fire detection systems, and the overall enforcement of safety regulations in learning institutions.

In 2001, the nation was shaken when 67 students perished at Kyanguli Secondary School in Machakos County after a fire was deliberately set.

The tragedy remains the deadliest school fire in Kenya’s history.

While it prompted national grief and outrage, many parents now say it failed to trigger meaningful structural reforms to prevent future disasters.

More than two decades later, similar concerns resurfaced in September 2024 when 21 boys aged between 10 and 14 died in a devastating fire at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri County.

Investigations revealed shocking conditions in the dormitory, including severe overcrowding, with 164 boys housed in a space far below acceptable capacity.

The probe further established that exit doors were dangerously narrow, significantly slowing evacuation efforts and contributing to the high death toll.

Following the findings, a court ordered the closure of the school’s boarding facilities.

Parents from different parts of the country have voiced their frustrations and fears, urging authorities to act decisively.

James Muia from Machakos said the government must enforce strict safety standards in all schools.

Jane Atieno from Kisumu echoed the sentiments, emphasizing the need for regular inspections and accountability.

Julius Maina from Nyeri called for modern dormitory designs that prioritize student safety, while Nathan Wanjala from Nairobi urged swift policy implementation to prevent further loss of young lives.

The parents are now demanding urgent action, including the construction of safer dormitories, installation of fire detection systems, wider exits, and strict adherence to capacity limits.

As schools continue to operate across the country, the safety of millions of students remains a pressing concern, with parents insisting that no child should lose their life in a place meant for learning and growth.

31/05/2026

UPDATE
THREE SUSPECTED CAR THIEVES LYNCHED IN MACHAKOS TOWN
By Daniel Nzia
Three suspected car thieves were killed by a mob in Machakos town early today following a botched theft at the town's roundabout, police have confirmed.

Machakos Sub-County Police Commander Joseph Muturi said the incident occurred at around 1:00 a.m. when the suspects allegedly attempted to steal a car from a lone motorist.

The motorist raised the alarm as he sustained a deep cut on his right arm during the confrontation, Muturi said.

Boda boda operators near the scene responded and cornered the suspects before they could flee.

The mob beat them to death and set their bodies on fire.

“We don’t know who they are or where they came from. We have launched an investigation into the incident,” Muturi told _The County Champion.

He said police are working to identify the deceased and trace possible accomplices.

The bodies were taken to the Machakos Level 5 Hospital mortuary, while the vehicle was moved to Machakos police station.

30/05/2026

UPDATE:
FORMER GOVERNOR MIKE SONKO VISITS UTUMISHI GIRLS FIRE VICTIMS AT KNH
By Champion Staff Writer
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko, who also serves as the Party Leader of the National Economic Development Party (NEDP), today visited students admitted at Kenyatta National Hospital following the tragic fire that claimed the lives of 16 girls at Utumishi Girls Senior School.

Speaking after the visit, Sonko, who also identifies himself as the Good Deeds Goodwill Ambassador in Kenya, said he took time from his busy schedule to comfort the injured students and assess their condition.

“It was heartbreaking to hear their stories and witness the injuries they sustained while trying to escape the flames.

Some suffered injuries to their legs after jumping from the building, while others sustained injuries to their hands, heads, and other parts of their bodies,” he said.

Despite the pain and trauma endured by the victims, Sonko expressed optimism, noting that most of the students are now out of danger and responding well to treatment.

In a show of solidarity, he donated various essential items including mineral water, sanitary towels, tissue papers, fruits, yoghurt, Ribena, Lucozade, chocolates, and flowers.

“It was a small gesture of love and support to remind them that they are not alone. We stand with them during this difficult time and will continue to support them throughout their recovery journey,” he added.

Sonko also extended his heartfelt prayers to all the injured students, including those who have since been discharged, wishing them a full and speedy recovery.

He further conveyed his deepest condolences to families who lost their daughters in the devastating tragedy, revealing that he has volunteered to support the bereaved families as they navigate the painful period of grief and loss.

“May God grant the injured students a full recovery, and may He give the bereaved families strength, comfort, healing, and peace during this difficult time,” he said.