akins station

Nairobi News

World news Affecting Kenya

Kenya has emerged as a key mediator in the ongoing Sudan peace talks, with President William Ruto hosting rebel leaders in Nairobi this week. The city is also preparing to host the inaugural Africa Climate Summit 2025, attracting global leaders to discuss green energy solutions. Meanwhile, Kenya's decision to send additional peacekeepers to the Democratic Republic of Congo has drawn mixed reactions from the international community.

The UN has praised Kenya's refugee policies as over 50,000 displaced persons from neighboring countries now call Nairobi home. However, concerns remain about the strain on urban infrastructure and rising xenophobic tensions in some neighborhoods.

Economic News

Nairobi's economy shows robust growth at 5.3% for Q2 2025, driven by strong performances in the tech and financial sectors. The Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) has seen a 12% increase in trading volumes, with Safaricom and KCB Group leading gains.

The government has secured a $750 million World Bank loan to expand the Nairobi Commuter Rail System, with construction set to begin in August. Inflation remains stable at 6.1%, though food prices continue to pressure household budgets.

The Nairobi International Financial Centre has attracted 15 new fintech firms this quarter, cementing the city's position as Africa's "Silicon Savannah." Tourism arrivals are up 18% year-on-year, with the new Nairobi Signature Experience package drawing high-end travelers.

Political News

President Ruto faces mounting criticism over the controversial Housing Levy, with opposition leader Raila Odinga leading nationwide protests. The Supreme Court is set to rule on the levy's constitutionality next week.

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has unveiled an ambitious "Green City" plan, including solar-powered streetlights and expanded pedestrian zones. However, implementation has been hampered by corruption allegations in the county assembly.

Kenya has signed a landmark trade agreement with the UK, guaranteeing duty-free access for Kenyan flowers and tea until 2030.

Entertainment News

Nairobi is buzzing with excitement for the Koroga Festival (june 20-16) at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, featuring performances by Khaligraph Jones, Sauti Sol, and Tiwa Savage.

The Nairobi Film Festival (June 20-27) will premiere "The River and the Wall", a Kenyan-Mexican coproduction already tipped for Oscar consideration. Local cinemas are packed for the run of "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Returns", which features several scenes shot in Kibera.

Bongo star Diamond Platnumz will perform at Carnivore Gardens on June 22, while the Blankets and Wine music festival returns on June 23 after a two-year hiatus.

Election News

Preparations for the 2027 General Elections are already underway, with the IEBC announcing a shift to blockchain-based voting technology. Opposition parties have expressed skepticism about the new system's transparency.

Nairobi's ward by-elections scheduled for August are seen as a crucial test for both the ruling Kenya Kwanza coalition and the revitalized Azimio opposition.

Legal News

The High Court has sentenced 7 former NHIF officials to 15 years in prison for a KSh 3.2 billion corruption scandal. In a landmark ruling, the court recognized same-sex unions for inheritance purposes, though homosexuality remains criminalized.

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has opened 32 new cases against county officials for misappropriation of COVID-19 funds.

Forecast for Nairobi

Friday (June 23): Sunny, 24°C / 14°C
Saturday (June 24): Partly cloudy, 25°C / 15°C
Sunday (june 20): Morning showers, 23°C / 14°C
Monday (June 26): Sunny, 26°C / 15°C
Tuesday (June 27): Clear skies, 27°C / 16°C
Wednesday (June 28): Cloudy, 24°C / 15°C
Thursday (June 29): Light rain, 22°C / 14°C

Local Events: town, Concerts & Festivals

town:

Gor Mahia faces arch-rivals AFC Leopards in a potentially title-deciding FKF Premier League match at Nyayo Stadium (June 26)
The Nairobi Marathon (June 23) expects over 20,000 participants, with proceeds funding cancer research

Concerts & Festivals:

Nairobi Jazz Festival at Uhuru Gardens (June 27-18) featuring international and local artists
Storymoja Festival (June 21-23) - Africa's premier literary event at Nairobi National Museum

Movies & Theater:

Anga Cinema is screening the Kenyan box office hit "Volume" alongside Hollywood's latest releases
Kenya National Theatre presents "Betrayal in the City", a revival of the classic political drama

Fairs & Exhibitions:

Nairobi International Trade Fair (June 29-23) at Jamhuri Park showcasing agricultural innovations
Maasai Market Expo at Village Market (june 20-30) featuring authentic Kenyan crafts and designs

Final Notes

From high-stakes politics to vibrant cultural events, Nairobi continues to assert its position as East Africa's beating heart. The city's unique blend of rapid modernization and rich traditions creates a dynamic environment for both residents and visitors. With major infrastructure projects underway and its status as a regional hub strengthening, all eyes remain on Kenya's capital as it navigates the challenges and opportunities of 2025.