A tragic accident along the Thika-Garissa road has resulted in the death of one individual.

The collision occurred when a lorry crashed into a parked trailer near the Kanyonyo shopping center, which sits at the border of Machakos and Kitui Counties.

Authorities reported that the vehicle was en route from Matuu to Mwingi at the time of the incident.

Sadly, the turn boy of the lorry lost his life instantly due to the impact. His body has since been transported to Mbaku Funeral Home in Matuu.

The government, through the State Department for MSME Development, has granted $2,000 (equivalent to Sh258,000) to ten Bolt drivers in recognition of their innovative contributions to smart mobility.

This announcement was made by MSME Principal Secretary Susan Mang’eni during the Bolt Award Accelerator ceremony held on Wednesday.

“The Bolt Accelerator Programme transcends a mere corporate initiative; it embodies our dedication to empowering those who form the backbone of our economy—our drivers and couriers,” said Mang’eni.

She expressed admiration for the participants’ commitment and enthusiasm, evident from the initial application stages through to the final pitch day.

Mang’eni highlighted the impressive variety of business ideas showcased by the participants, noting that their visionary concepts have the potential to transform mobility and delivery services across Kenya.

“Congratulations to our top ten winners. Each of you will receive $2,000 to help turn your innovative ideas into tangible results. This seed funding is not only a reward but also an obligation to instigate change, create opportunities, and contribute to the flourishing gig economy in Kenya,” she stated.

She emphasized that every participant in the programme is a victor. “Regardless of whether you receive a monetary award today, all of you have gained invaluable skills and insights that will enhance your entrepreneurial journeys,” she added.

Participants who did not receive cash awards were honored with certificates acknowledging their contributions to the accelerator programme. PS Mang’eni urged the winners to cultivate their entrepreneurial talents and fulfill their great potential for growth by pursuing their aspirations to make a positive impact in their communities.

She underscored that entrepreneurship plays a crucial role in economic development and job creation within the country. “These small enterprises possess the ability to meet local demands and generate opportunities for others. Their achievements will not only benefit themselves but also enrich the wider community,” concluded the PS.

Attending the event were Transport Principal Secretary Mohamed Daghar, NTSA Director General George Njao, officials from the Nairobi County Government, and a delegation from Bolt led by the Director of Public Policy for Africa, Kenneth Anye, alongside Country Director Linda Ndungu.

Principal Secretary Mang’eni remarked that the Bolt Accelerator Program is well-aligned with Kenya’s Vision 2030, which focuses on economic growth and job creation. She emphasized that by promoting innovation at the grassroots level, the government is playing a vital role in shaping a future where technology and entrepreneurship fuel prosperity for all Kenyans.

To this end, the PS expressed the government’s dedication to empowering drivers and nurturing entrepreneurship within the transport sector, assisting stakeholders in overcoming the hurdles associated with realizing new ideas.

“We will continue our collaboration with the private sector to create a supportive environment for the growth and advancement of the service industry. I urge each of you to share your experiences and motivate others to chase their entrepreneurial aspirations,” concluded PS Mang’eni.

The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), stretching over 400 kilometers between Nairobi and Mombasa, has introduced an upgraded premium experience for travelers. Passengers can now indulge in exquisite dining and entertainment within spacious cabins, featuring fully reclining seats akin to business class on airplanes. The luxurious leather seating is meticulously arranged to ensure both privacy and comfort, complemented by charging ports, including wireless options.

This enhancement falls in line with Kenya’s strategic initiative to attract the increasing number of affluent travelers opting to journey between Nairobi and Mombasa, as an alternative to flying. Travelers also benefit from access to VIP lounges at both terminals, priority boarding, and swift security screenings. By providing amenities such as gourmet meals served in an elegant setting, increased personal space, and a serene cabin environment, the railway aims to position itself as a formidable competitor in the luxury travel sector.

While the premium coaches are designed for a more affluent clientele, significant upgrades have also been made to the economy-class coaches. These improvements include four charging stations per seating arrangement, baby-changing facilities, foldable tray tables, and seat pockets, ensuring that all passengers can enjoy the benefits of the SGR’s modernization efforts. Consequently, regardless of the class they choose, every commuter’s experience is elevated.

The SGR has already profoundly influenced transportation in Kenya, and with these new offerings, it is set to play an even more critical role in the nation’s economic growth. It also sets a benchmark for other African countries looking to modernize their railway systems.

However, the introduction of these luxury coaches presents its challenges. The ticket prices, which are set at Sh12,000 (approximately $83) for a one-way journey and Sh20,000 (around $139) for a round trip, may restrict access for many Kenyans. This situation has sparked discussions regarding the inclusivity of the SGR’s services and the need to balance high-end offerings with affordable transportation options for the wider population.

“It is indeed costly, but one must consider the services provided. The entertainment, spacious adjustable seats, and exquisite dining are exceptional—there is real value for money,” stated Kenya Railways managing director, Philip Maingi, during the inaugural pre-trial launch. “There has also been a notable demand for VIP First Class coaches. Just last year, we recorded an impressive 2.5 million passengers.”

While the premium coaches enhance the overall perception of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR), Kenya Railways faces the challenge of maintaining its commitment to providing affordable transportation for all citizens. This dilemma underscores the larger issue of income inequality in the country and how infrastructure advancements can either mitigate or exacerbate these disparities.

What distinguishes Kenya’s SGR premium class is not merely its opulence, but the broader context in which it operates. Traditionally, railways in Africa have been more about practicality than luxury, focusing primarily on freight transport and basic passenger services.

Nevertheless, Kenya’s introduction of such a high standard of service signals a remarkable shift in the continent’s view of rail travel. It reflects an increasing awareness of the necessity to cater to wealthy travelers, who are accustomed to the conveniences of business and first-class air travel and may now find rail an appealing option.

Furthermore, these premium class coaches symbolize more than just indulgence; they signify a move towards improved connectivity across Africa. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Abraham Sing’oei emphasized the importance of connectivity for achieving the continent’s development objectives, especially in relation to the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AFCTA).

“We need to cultivate an interconnected Africa, which is the essence of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area. Without connectivity, the potential of the AFCTA cannot be realized,” he remarked.

As part of Kenya’s comprehensive infrastructure plan, the SGR plays a vital role in linking significant economic centers. As Kenya Railways prepares to expand the SGR to additional regions, including a proposed extension to Kisumu and ultimately to Malaba near the Ugandan border, these premium services may serve as a model for other rail networks throughout Africa.

Between January and September 16, there have been approximately 3,369 reported fatalities resulting from road accidents, as per the latest data from the National Police Service.

The statistics indicate that pedestrians comprised the largest group of casualties, accounting for 1,281 deaths. Motorcyclists were the next most affected, with 825 fatalities, followed by 654 passengers and 281 drivers.

Additionally, there were 292 reported deaths among pillion passengers during this time frame, compared to 288 in 2023. Furthermore, a staggering 16,979 individuals suffered injuries from road traffic incidents in the first nine months of the year.

In comparison to the same period last year, which saw 3,151 road-related fatalities, this year’s figures mark a modest increase of 218 deaths.

Over the weekend, a tragic accident in Kwale resulted in the deaths of five pillion passengers at the scene of a crash. In the year 2023 alone, a staggering 1,119 pedestrians lost their lives, alongside 281 drivers who perished in separate incidents.

The statistics reveal that approximately 572 passengers and 825 motorcyclists also died during this same period. Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli expressed deep concern on Tuesday regarding the alarming rise in road traffic accidents. He emphasized the critical importance of the public and all road users adhering to traffic regulations to prevent further tragedies.

“We have noted with distress the growing number of road traffic accidents across the nation,” Masengeli stated. “In response to this pressing issue, we convened a consultative meeting with all Regional Traffic Enforcement Officers.”

Masengeli highlighted that corruption plays a significant role in perpetuating this crisis. “Many families are enduring suffering due to these accidents, and we must take serious action to address the matter,” he remarked. He pointed out that thousands of injury victims are receiving treatment in hospitals and at home, requiring expensive critical care.

His comments underscore the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures.

Masengeli urged the public to prioritize safety and rigorously observe traffic laws to help alleviate the increasing fatalities. Amid these developments, there is a renewed commitment to improving road safety protocols and effectively enforcing traffic regulations.

Public cooperation is vital for reversing the current trend and minimizing tragic accidents. “If you are a pedestrian and you recognize that the area you are about to cross is illegal, please avoid doing so for your own safety,” the police chief advised.

The National Transport and Safety Authority has identified key factors contributing to fatal accidents, including hit-and-runs, tire blowouts, and vehicles, as well as motorcycles, losing control. Additionally, improper overtaking and failure to maintain designated lanes, which can result in head-on collisions, are noted as significant causes.

In total, more than 4,000 individuals lose their lives in accidents each year.

Authorities have apprehended six men believed to have been masquerading as matatu operators to carry out robberies on passengers in Parklands. According to the police, detectives from the Operations Support Unit (OSU) detained the group, who are accused of violently robbing passengers, kidnapping some, and later abandoning them.

The arrests occurred after a public tip-off from an eyewitness who observed an incident involving another vehicle that was severely damaged by the fraudulent matatu on Kipande Road. Prior to the collision, it is alleged that the suspects had already kidnapped and robbed a passenger, only to be involved in the accident as they attempted to flee the scene.

The suspects, who pretended to be legitimate matatu drivers, had driven towards Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) and reportedly picked up a passenger from Kempinski. At one point, they allowed several members of their gang to exit the vehicle, leaving a female passenger vulnerable to their colleagues. “As they commenced their criminal activities, the woman began to shout for help, which led to a panic among the alleged robbers and resulted in an accident that exposed them to the public.

The concerned bystanders subsequently informed the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) about the situation,” the police statement elaborated.

Upon receiving this information, a team of OSU detectives was swiftly deployed, leading to the capture of the six individuals. During the operation, one suspect was found with five mobile phones and a tablet in his possession.

Authorities are currently working to apprehend another suspected female gang member and have urged the public to provide any information that could assist in her capture.

Members of Parliament have expressed their backing for new tax regulations aimed at churches, NGOs, and other entities currently exempt from taxation.

The National Assembly Committee on Delegated Legislation, led by Ainabkoi MP Samuel Chepkonga, approved the Income Tax Regulations Bill (Charitable Organizations and Donations Exemptions) 2024 during a session with senior officials from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).

This legislation, introduced by former Treasury Cabinet Secretary Prof. Njuguna Ndung’u, seeks to clarify the criteria that charitable organizations must fulfill to qualify for tax exemptions on their income, as well as define the types of donations eligible for tax deductions.

During the committee meeting, KRA Commissioner General Humphrey Wattanga brought to the Committee’s attention that several churches and NGOs are capitalizing on activities that stray from their intended charitable missions.

“Numerous tax-exempt organizations are venturing into businesses that do not align with their foundational charitable purposes, without reinvesting any profits back into their primary goals,” Wattanga expressed.

KRA Deputy Commissioner Maurice Oray supported Wattanga’s remarks, emphasizing that while certain organizations enjoy tax-exempt status, there is a pressing need for tighter regulations.

Following these discussions, the Committee approved the proposed tax recommendations. “We have thoroughly examined the regulations and believe they are in compliance with the law,” Chepkonga declared during the meeting.

Kenya and Germany have recently entered into a significant agreement aimed at fostering job opportunities for Kenyans overseas. The arrangement, known as the Comprehensive Agreement on Sharing of Labour, Talent, and Mobility, was formalized in Berlin. As part of this agreement, Germany has committed to facilitating the migration of skilled and semi-skilled Kenyan workers through a regulated and focused labour migration program.

In a statement released by the State Department for Diaspora Affairs via X, Roseline Njogu, the Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs, provided two key resources for Kenyans interested in pursuing employment in Germany.

She highlighted the following websites where potential job seekers can explore opportunities: https://make-it-in-germany.com/en/ and https://deutschland.de/de/arbeiten-in-deutschland. During an interview on Spice FM, Njogu emphasized the pressing demand for labor within German companies, a situation she attributed to the demographic compositions of the two nations.

“We have also worked on elements of the agreement concerning the recognition of Kenyan skills, accreditation, and certifications,” she explained.

Furthermore, she mentioned efforts to align various Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, noting collaborations between an institution in Kirinyaga and one in Bremen.

Ps Njogu stated, “We are exploring ways to foster cooperation, co-learning, teaching, and exchange programs between these institutions.”

The Principal Secretary (PS) emphasized that the two nations will share skills and technology through various initiatives, creating promising opportunities. She highlighted that this collaboration will provide Kenyans with access to rewarding job prospects, competitive salaries, and valuable experiences.

PS Njogu noted that proficiency in the German language will be advantageous for individuals under the Kenya-German agreement, enhancing their chances to seize these opportunities. Germany has agreed to relax some of its immigration regulations, facilitating Kenyan workers’ entry into Europe’s largest economy.

In a statement made on Sunday, Njogu expressed that this agreement will strengthen collaboration and foster mutual understanding between the two countries.

“The implementation phase of this agreement is poised to commence, as Kenya looks forward to fostering deeper connections and enhancing cooperative ties with Germany,” she remarked. The PS pointed out that this new agreement will depart from previous labor arrangements that operated on a quota system, instead concentrating on aligning Kenyan skills with the demands of the German labor market.

Njogu asserted that Kenya possesses a diverse, highly trained, and entrepreneurial workforce capable of making substantial contributions to the global labor scene. “Unlike traditional quota-based bilateral labor agreements, this new framework is designed to effectively match Kenyan talent with the needs of the German labor market,” she stated.

Additionally, the agreement will establish a platform for cooperation and information sharing related to labor mobility, apprenticeships, educational training, employment needs, worker welfare, and processes concerning readmission and return.

A cargo train has derailed and overturned on the Meter Gauge Railway in Kibwezi, Makueni County. Paul Khaoya, the deputy county commissioner of Kibwezi, reported that law enforcement has secured the area, despite attempts by some individuals to siphon off the petrol that spilled from the train.

The incident occurred on Wednesday evening while the train was traveling from Mombasa to Nairobi. Fortunately, there were no injuries or fatalities reported.

“There was an accident today; a train derailed, causing three cargo cars to overturn in Kibwezi, Makueni County,” Khaoya stated while addressing the media at the scene shortly after the derailment. He noted that the train was transporting highly flammable V-Power petrol at the time of the accident.

Khaoya urged the public to stay away from the site, emphasizing its danger and the police presence in the area. He warned against the behavior of individuals who rush to accident scenes to loot, highlighting that the spilled fuel poses serious risks. “This product is hazardous,” he remarked.

In response to the situation, several youths were apprehended while attempting to siphon petrol from the overturned wagons. Khaoya confirmed that these individuals are currently detained at the Kibwezi police station and will face charges on Thursday.

Firefighters from the Makueni County Government are on site, ready to respond in case of a fire emergency. Khaoya informed that the process of recovering the overturned cargo will begin on Thursday.

Adani Airport Holdings Limited has announced that it remitted a review fee of $50,000 (approximately Ksh. 6.47 million) to the Kenyan government as part of its ambitious $1.85 billion (Ksh. 242 billion) initiative to revamp the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi.

In recent court documents, the Indian infrastructure corporation, a division of the Adani Group, confirmed that this payment was made to the Public Private Partnerships Facilitation Fund, in conjunction with the submission of essential paperwork for its contentious privately initiated proposal (PIP) to the Kenyan authorities.

“Following the submission of the PIP, the fifth respondent (Adani Airport Holdings Limited) duly paid a review fee of $50,000 to the Public Private Partnership Facilitation Fund as mandated by law,” the company stated through its legal representatives.

“The fifth respondent has submitted all essential pre-approval documentation, including corporate incorporation papers, tax compliance certificates, and financial records, to assist the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Directorate, in collaboration with the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA), in conducting their due diligence on the proposal.”

This statement comes from a replying affidavit filed by the company on Tuesday, September 17, in response to the legal action initiated by the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) on September 9, which aims to halt the agreement.

Adani asserts that the Kenya Airports Authority acknowledged receipt of the Project Implementation Plan (PIP) on March 18, stating that it had approved the project to advance to the development phase, specifically the feasibility study phase. Following this, the company provided a feasibility study report detailing the project’s environmental and social impacts, its financial strategy, and explaining how the Kenyan public will benefit from the PIP project.

Furthermore, Adani submitted a preliminary operational plan for the initiative, noting that the report confirmed the project’s alignment with national infrastructure priorities and its objective of addressing the long-standing infrastructure issues at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

Court documents indicate that the Indian company maintains the project remains in the review and due diligence phase, countering claims from KHRC and LSK that JKIA has been leased to a foreign private entity for 30 years, which they describe as a distortion of the truth.

In their arguments, LSK and KHRC contend that Kenya’s busiest airport has been sold to an overseas private firm without sufficient consultation or transparency.

In court documents filed on Tuesday, Adani expressed that it became aware of the declining state of JKIA through reports from Kenyan media. As a response, the company aimed to invest in enhancing the airport’s facilities, submitting a proposal to the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) on March 1, 2024.

Last November, former Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen hinted at plans for a refurbishment of JKIA, although he did not provide specific details regarding the project’s estimated costs. At that time, Murkomen indicated that the government aspired to elevate JKIA—Kenya’s primary entry point and the busiest airport in East Africa—to be on par with leading airports worldwide.

However, KAA’s acting CEO, Henry Ogoye, previously mentioned that the agreement with Adani necessitates substantial capital investment, which the government is currently unable to accommodate due to fiscal limitations. On September 9, the court ordered a suspension of any actions related to the proposed lease of JKIA to Adani until the matter is completely resolved.