The Trending news in kenya this week ( March 3rd - 7th, 2025)

1, On March 7th, 2025 we saw a desperate political move of one president William Ruto and ODM leaders Raila Odinga to save the unpopular Kenya Kwanza government they signed an MOU that we speculate has a power sharing deal this is a desperate move by the president to save his government that has had its cards wrong since getting to power in 2022 thru a popular vote but has since then been losing popularity with chest thumbing decisions that have affected the lives of Kenyans economical and socially .

2, The body of former IEBC Chair Wafula Chebukati arrived in Kitale for burial today 8th March 2025, drawing attention to his legacy

3, Social Health Authority (SHA) Controversy

Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa faced criticism after appearing before the Senate with vague responses about the Social Health Authority (SHA). Local media highlighted her apparent lack of clarity, fueling debates about healthcare mismanagement. Posts on X and news reports also pointed to allegations of theft within the SHA, adding to public frustration.

4, Economic Outlook 

Kenya Power announced a reduction in electricity costs, with the base tariff dropping from Ksh 19.04 per unit in 2023 to Ksh 17.94, thanks to a stronger Kenyan shilling. However, concerns linger over a proposed wayleave charge that could raise prices by up to 30%. Meanwhile, the shilling stabilized at around Ksh 129 to 1 USD, a point noted in daily headlines.

5, Kakuma Refugee Camp Clashes

Thousands of refugees in Kakuma clashed with police after food rations were cut due to a U.S. aid freeze, wiping out half of the World Food Programme’s budget. Teargas was deployed as protests erupted over the reduced supplies, with a slight increase in cash payments (from Ksh 650 to Ksh 820) failing to ease tensions. Kenya’s Interior Ministry called the aid cuts “sudden and severe,” impacting the country’s ability to support 800,000 refugees.

6, Optimism Ranking vs. Government Distrust

Kenya ranked 6th globally and 1st in Africa for optimism in an Edelman report, despite growing discontent with Ruto’s administration. The report noted that 80% of Kenyans believe government leaders intentionally mislead the public, a sentiment echoed in the Gen Z protests of 2024. This contrast has sparked discussions about public resilience amid skepticism toward institutions.