Bamburi Cement has launched its second annual Ramadan food distribution drive, targeting more than 4,000 vulnerable families across the country in a bid to support communities during the holy month of giving and reflection.

The initiative, which was first rolled out last year and reached 4,000 beneficiaries, has been expanded to cover key regions including Mombasa, Nairobi, Machakos and Matuga.

Speaking during the launch, Tawakal Rajab Sumba, Country Representative of Amsons Group Limited — the parent company of Bamburi Cement  said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to uplifting communities, particularly during Ramadan.

“This is our annual Ramadan initiative which we started last year, where we reached 4,000 beneficiaries. We are continuing with the same spirit this year, targeting 4,000 families across Mombasa, Nairobi, Machakos and Matuga,” said Sumba.

He noted that Ramadan is a time that calls for compassion, generosity and solidarity with the less fortunate.“As you are aware, this is the month of giving and sharing. We are undertaking this initiative to support the underprivileged in our communities and ensure they can observe the holy month with dignity,” he added.

Sumba also called upon corporate organizations to play a more active role in community development and social responsibility.

“To the corporates, let’s strive to help the communities that surround us. Businesses thrive because of the communities around them, and it is only right that we give back and uplift those in need,” he said.

He further expressed gratitude to residents of Mombasa for their continued support and partnership in the company’s community initiatives.

“We hope and pray that the support we continue to receive from the people of Mombasa will endure, as we work together to make a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable families,” Sumba noted.

Religious leaders also lauded the initiative, terming it a true reflection of the spirit of Ramadan.

Zubeir Noor, a religious leader, commended Amsons Group for its continued commitment to supporting vulnerable families during the holy month.

“Our appreciation goes to Amsons Group for this gesture. Our religion encourages us to give during this Ramadan period, and what the company is doing is in line with those teachings,” said Noor.

He added that corporate participation in faith-driven charitable efforts remains rare but deeply impactful.

“We have not seen many companies doing what they are doing, and it is very encouraging. Such initiatives strengthen our communities and give hope to families who are struggling,” he said.

Beyond the Ramadan food drive, the company announced plans to invest in the health sector in the coastal region. Sumba revealed that Bamburi Cement, through its parent company, intends to establish a cancer treatment centre in Mombasa at a cost of KSh 50 million.

“As a company, we are also intending to establish a cancer centre here in Mombasa at a tune of Sh50 million. This is part of our broader vision to contribute to critical social infrastructure that directly benefits the community,” he said.

Bamburi Cement, a subsidiary of Amsons Group Limited, has in recent years intensified its corporate social responsibility programs, focusing on community welfare, health, and sustainable development initiatives across Kenya.

The Ramadan food drive is expected to ease the burden on thousands of families facing economic hardships, reaffirming the company’s commitment to social impact and inclusive growth.

Kazandani Member of County Assembly (MCA) has declared her intention to vie for the Mombasa Woman Representative seat in 2027, citing what she described as a glaring gap in women empowerment and tangible development programs targeting women across the county.

According to Kushe said women in the county have been sidelined for too long and deserve leadership that prioritizes economic empowerment and sustainable programs over political mobilization.

"Mombasa women are longing for empowerment. For years, we have not seen any meaningful project that has directly impacted women at the grassroots level,” Kushe said.

The MCA criticized what she termed as the misuse of women and youth for political mileage instead of investing in long-term empowerment initiatives.

“We don’t want leaders whose main duty is to mobilize women and youth to attend political rallies. Our women deserve dignity, opportunities and structured programs that uplift their livelihoods,” she added.

Kushe noted that other counties have implemented impactful initiatives through their Woman Representatives’ offices, including bursary programs, table banking initiatives, maternal health support, and skills training centers.

"Go to other counties and you will see what other Woman Representatives have been able to achieve. Women are benefiting from organized funds, entrepreneurship training and development projects. Why should Mombasa be left behind?” she posed.

She pledged that her 2027 bid will focus on economic empowerment, access to national government affirmative funds, capacity building for women-led groups, and mentorship programs for young women.

According to Kushe, her leadership will prioritize transparency, accountability and measurable impact.

"Leadership is about service and results. If given the opportunity, I will ensure that every sub-county in Mombasa feels the impact of the Woman Representative’s office,” she said.

Her declaration sets the stage for what is expected to be a competitive race for the Mombasa Woman Representative seat in the 2027 General Election, with women empowerment emerging as a key campaign issue.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring public trust in county health services, following a high-level engagement with leadership and staff at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital.

The governor’s address comes just days after the suspension of the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Iqbal Kandwala, a move that has intensified scrutiny over service delivery standards at the county’s main referral facility.

Khandwallah was suspended indefinitely and replaced by Sood Mohamed in an acting capacity pending a full governance review process.

This followed concerns raised by Machele over leadership and service delivery at the facility after the death of one of his NG-CDF staff members at the hospital.

During his meeting with hospital leadership and  staff, Governor Nassir emphasized the responsibility health workers carry in serving residents of Mombasa.

“I held a candid engagement today with the leadership and staff of Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital to reaffirm our core duty: restoring public trust through reliable, compassionate care,” the governor said. “We reviewed service delivery standards and the responsibility each of us carries to the people of Mombasa who depend on this facility every day.”

In a firm directive, the governor ordered immediate and full compliance with his Executive Order requiring that all children under the age of five receive free treatment in every public hospital across the county.

“This is non-negotiable,” he stated. “Any officer who defies this directive will face firm disciplinary action.”

The order is aimed at reducing financial barriers to healthcare for vulnerable families and reinforcing the county’s commitment to equitable access to medical services.

Governor Nassir also announced that on Monday, the county government will commission a new County Call Center alongside on-site Customer Care Desks at health facilities. The initiative is designed to provide residents with a direct line to the governor’s office to report service gaps, raise concerns, and monitor how issues are resolved.

“Accountability in health care is not optional, it is the foundation of public service,” he said.

The developments signal a renewed push by the county administration to tighten oversight, strengthen governance, and rebuild confidence in public health institutions following recent leadership changes at the county’s flagship hospital.

Kenya Airways has cancelled its Nairobi–New York flights following severe winter weather and a blizzard warning affecting parts of the United States, including New York.

In a customer update issued on Sunday, the national carrier said operations at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) had been significantly impacted after airport authorities suspended flight operations for specific periods due to heavy snowfall.

“As a result of the blizzard warning and severe weather conditions affecting several parts of the United States, including heavy snowfall in New York, operations at JFK have been significantly impacted,” the airline said in a statement dated 22 February 2026.

The airline confirmed that flight KQ002 from Nairobi (NBO) to New York (JFK) scheduled for 22 February 2026 and the return flight KQ003 from New York (JFK) to Nairobi (NBO) scheduled for 23 February 2026 have been cancelled.

"Further to the above, and for the safety of our customers and crew, the following flights have been cancelled,” the statement read.

Kenya Airways apologised for the inconvenience caused to passengers, assuring them that safety remains its top priority.

“We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience caused and appreciate your patience and understanding. The safety and comfort of our customers and crew remains our highest priority,” the airline said.

The carrier expressed optimism that services would resume once weather conditions improve.

“We plan to operate KQ002 on 24 February 2026 and KQ003 on 25 February 2026 as scheduled once the weather improves and is safe to operate,” the statement added.

Kenya Airways said its teams are actively monitoring the situation and engaging with relevant airport stakeholders in the United States, promising to provide further updates as new information becomes available.

Passengers were advised to check the airline’s website or mobile app for the latest flight updates or contact the Customer Excellence team via phone, WhatsApp, or X (@KQSupport) for assistance.

The disruption comes as a powerful winter storm sweeps across parts of the United States, leading to widespread travel interruptions and flight suspensions at major airports.

As global efforts to combat climate change intensify, Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) has launched a pioneering Green Hydrogen (GH₂) Course aimed at equipping maritime professionals with skills to support sustainable shipping and port operations.

The pilot program, implemented in partnership with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), positions the Mombasa-based institution at the forefront of green maritime training in the region.

Green hydrogen is increasingly being recognized worldwide as a clean alternative fuel capable of significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions from vessels and port activities —a critical step toward decarbonizing the global shipping industry.

Speaking during the launch, Principal Curriculum Development Officer Silas Khasindu, said the initiative reflects the Academy’s commitment to aligning maritime training with emerging global environmental standards.

"This program empowers our cadets to actively contribute to the decarbonization of the maritime shipping sector. By integrating green hydrogen technologies into our curriculum, we are preparing a new generation of maritime professionals capable of leading the transition toward sustainable shipping,” Khasindu said.

He noted that through the course, trainees will gain competencies in alternative clean energy solutions for ships, green port management, and the safe handling of vessels powered by alternative energy sources.

BMA Assistant Director of Quality Assurance Michael Njogah explained that the pilot program targets Level 6 Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) students, ensuring that graduates are equipped with industry-relevant skills aligned with both national and international standards.

"The course has been structured to meet competency-based education requirements while responding to the growing demand for environmentally responsible maritime operations,” Njogah said.

Nautical trainer Jacob Kazungu emphasized the practical component of the program, highlighting that cadets will receive hands-on exposure to emerging green technologies and operational safety procedures for hydrogen-powered vessels.

"Our trainees will not only learn the theory behind green hydrogen but also understand operational safety and technical requirements for handling alternative fuel-powered ships,” Kazungu said.

The launch marks a significant milestone for maritime education in Kenya, coming at a time when the global shipping industry faces mounting pressure to reduce carbon emissions and transition toward cleaner energy sources.

By integrating green hydrogen into its curriculum, Bandari Maritime Academy is positioning itself as a regional leader in sustainable maritime training and contributing to Kenya’s broader climate action and blue economy agenda.

Over 2,000 mangrove trees have been planted at Mkupe Creek by Wild Heart Kenya in a major conservation exercise aimed at restoring coastal ecosystems and addressing the impacts of climate change.

The initiative brought together environmentalists and community volunteers in a coordinated effort to rehabilitate degraded areas of the creek.

Mangroves play a critical role in stabilizing shorelines, preventing soil erosion, and serving as breeding grounds for fish and other marine life. Environmental experts note that restoring mangrove forests is key to safeguarding livelihoods for coastal communities that depend on fishing and marine resources.

Speaking during the exercise, organizers emphasized the importance of community-driven conservation efforts.

They noted that sustainable environmental protection can only be achieved through partnerships between civil society, local residents, and stakeholders.

"Mangroves are not just trees; they are life support systems for our coastal communities. By restoring them, we are protecting biodiversity, strengthening climate resilience, and securing the future of our blue economy,” said Wild Heart Kenya Co-founder Brandy Chan.

On his part Chindoro Mwingo, Chairman of Mkupe Mazingira, said: “Mangroves are very important to us because of our daily work, fishing. Climate change is real, and we need more effort in restoring our mangroves since we are being affected.”

Residents who participated in the exercise welcomed the initiative, saying it will help revive fish breeding areas and improve environmental sustainability in the region.

The initiative underscores the growing momentum of grassroots-led conservation efforts along Kenya’s coastline  a reminder that environmental protection begins with collective action at the community level.

Mombasa County has received the final draft of its Gender Mainstreaming Policy, a landmark framework aimed at embedding gender equality and inclusion across all county programs, plans and budgets.

The draft was formally received by County Executive Committee Member for Youth, Gender, Sports and Social Services, Jonathan Wepukhulu, who described the development as a significant milestone for the department and the county at large.

“I proudly received the Final Draft of the Mombasa County Gender Mainstreaming Policy in my office. This marks a significant milestone for the Department of Youth, Gender, Sports and Social Services and for Mombasa County,” Wepukhulu said.

He noted that the policy provides a clear and structured framework to ensure that county initiatives equitably address the needs of women, men, marginalized and vulnerable groups.

“This transformative policy is not just a document; it is a commitment to fairness, inclusion and equal opportunity for all. It will guide how we design programs, allocate resources and deliver services to ensure that no one is left behind,” he added.

According to the county executive, the policy seeks to institutionalize gender perspectives in governance by integrating them into planning, budgeting and implementation processes across all departments.

“The goal is to make gender equality practical and measurable. Every county program and budget must respond equitably to the needs of our diverse population,” Wepukhulu said.

The development of the comprehensive draft was made possible through collaboration with Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA), the Kenyatta University Women Economic Empowerment Hub, and other stakeholders committed to advancing social justice and inclusive development.

Wepukhulu commended the partners for their technical support and shared vision. “This achievement reflects the power of partnership. We appreciate IPA, Kenyatta University Women Economic Empowerment Hub and all stakeholders who worked tirelessly to develop a policy that reflects the realities and aspirations of our people,” he said.

He reaffirmed the department’s commitment to championing initiatives that empower women and girls, uplift marginalized communities and promote equal participation in governance and economic opportunities.

“As a department, we remain steadfast in advancing policies that empower women and girls and integrate gender perspectives at every level of governance. Together, we are building a county where equality is not a privilege, but a right,” Wepukhulu emphasized.

Once adopted, the Gender Mainstreaming Policy is expected to strengthen accountability, enhance inclusive service delivery and position Mombasa as a leader in gender-responsive governance at the county level.

Trade and investment ties between Kenya and China continue to expand, driven by growing business partnerships, infrastructure projects, and rising demand for cross-border financial solutions. 

At the centre of this momentum is Stanbic Bank Kenya, whose China Desk is helping businesses navigate the complexities of operating between the two markets.

According to Muya Guo, Head of the China Desk, the unit was designed to reduce friction in cross-border trade and help businesses unlock new opportunities.

Building the financial bridge for trade and investment

The China Desk provides specialised trade and cash management solutions designed to support importers, exporters, and investors operating between Kenya and China.

“Stanbic Bank has robust trade solutions including guarantees, letters of credit, and working capital to facilitate trade and investment between Kenya and China,” says Guo. “We also offer import and export solutions that help Kenyan businesses connect with the vast Chinese market and find trusted sellers and buyers.”

Beyond trade finance, the bank is actively supporting sectors that attract Chinese investment, including infrastructure, industrial development, and services.

This funding plays an important role in accelerating projects that contribute to economic growth and job creation.

Simplifying payments and navigating regulatory differences

Cross border trade often faces barriers ranging from regulatory differences to language and payment system challenges.

The China Desk combines financial expertise with cultural insight to help businesses overcome these obstacles.

“Cultural awareness helps our colleagues understand clients better, communicate more efficiently, and build stronger trust,” Guo explains. “Our knowledge of both markets helps new investors understand the Kenya market faster, especially the financial sector.”

One of the most significant milestones has been improving payment infrastructure.

Through its parent group, Standard Bank became the first African bank to offer access to China’s Cross Border Interbank Payment System, helping to make payments in and out of China more efficient and secure.

This access is expected to streamline transactions, reduce settlement risk, and support the growing volume of trade between the two countries.

Strengthening relationships through culture and community

Financial solutions alone are not enough to build lasting partnerships. Stanbic has also invested in cultural and community initiatives that foster stronger relationships between Kenyan and Chinese business communities.

The bank hosts Chinese New Year celebrations at key branches, bringing together Chinese and Kenyan clients in a shared cultural experience.

It also sponsors the Kenya Chinese Basketball Tournament, using sport as a platform to build trust and deepen community connections.

These initiatives play a vital role in strengthening cross-cultural understanding, which is increasingly recognised as a key ingredient in successful international partnerships.

Inspired by the Year of the Horse

Looking ahead, Stanbic sees strong potential for continued growth in Kenya-China trade. Guo notes that the symbolism of the Year of the Horse reflects the spirit of progress and resilience that defines the partnership.

“The Horse represents energy, progress, resilience, and success through hard work,” she says. “We remain committed to supporting our clients’ ambitions with efficiency, commitment, and reliability, while delivering innovative financial solutions and creating opportunities for sustainable growth.”

As trade and investment ties deepen, financial institutions are expected to play an even greater role in enabling businesses to operate seamlessly across borders.

Stanbic’s China Desk is positioning itself at the heart of that journey, helping businesses move forward with confidence in one of the world’s most important trade corridors.

East Africa’s premier mixed martial arts promotion, ANZA MMA, returns for its 2026 season with its sixth event, following a highly successful run last year.

The promotion is set to deliver another electrifying night of amateur MMA action and fierce regional rivalries at ANZA MMA Fight Night 006, taking place on Thursday, 26 February 2026, at The Alchemist, Nairobi, one of the city’s most iconic live event venues. Doors open at 6 PM with fights beginning at 7 PM. Tickets are now available on Hustle Sasa.

Continuing its mission to develop elite talent and grow the sport across the continent, the event will feature a stacked fight card showcasing rising stars from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Headlining the night will be Kenya’s flyweight sensation Norman Mondo of One Tribe BJJ, who enters the bout on the back of two consecutive submission victories, cementing his reputation as one of the country’s most dangerous young grapplers.

Mondo’s relentless pace and submission-hunting style have made him a must-watch athlete on the East African scene.

Standing across from him will be Paul Angalla of Uganda, representing the Uganda Prison Guards, a team known for producing physically tough and disciplined competitors. With national pride and momentum on the line, this flyweight clash promises high intensity from start to finish.

The co-main event will present Uganda’s Rymond Wandendeya, another athlete coming in hot with two dominant finishes in his last two fights. one via ground and pound and the other by D’Arce choke, showcasing both striking pressure and submission skills.

He will face Magloire Kayembe of the Democratic Republic of Congo, representing Elite Training Center in Lubumbashi, widely regarded as one of Africa’s top MMA gyms.

The gym is led by Yadad Moser, who has developed elite African talent that has gone on to compete on major international platforms, including Dana White’s Contender Series. Kayembe himself is 2 - 0, coming off a strong showing at Impact Championship promotion in Zambia in 2025. 

Also featured on the card will be Isack Ibrahim, Tanzania’s a decorated Muay Thai striker with a strong international résumé who is now transitioning fully into mixed martial arts. While known for his high-level stand-up, Ibrahim has also competed in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and this bout marks an opportunity for him to showcase his complete MMA game.

He will face another fighter from Congo’s Elite Training Center, Jeanpy Michaelipes is a well-rounded martial artist who also holds a black belt in Karate, setting up a dynamic stylistic clash between refined striking, traditional martial arts foundations, and evolving MMA skillsets.

In Attendance will be a former UFC Light Heavyweight title challenger and Strikeforce Champion Renato “Babalu” Sobral who will be in Nairobi, Kenya as a Special Guest for the Grand Opening of Nairobi Jiu-JItsu Academy new facility on 28/02-01/03 at New Muthaiga Mall. 

Peng Chen, Founder of ANZA MMA, says: “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved so far with ANZA MMA. Our focus has always been on creating meaningful opportunities for martial artists and raising the standard of competition across the region. This progress has been a collective effort, and we are grateful for the partnerships, collaboration and support from Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy, One Tribe Kenya, Chanuka Self Defence and PFL Africa. As Season Two of our promotion begins this month, it reflects both the rapid growth of the sport and the exceptional talent emerging from East Africa.”

Season Two of ANZA MMA highlights its role as a proving ground for the next generation of African fighters. With athletes representing Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and DRC and top gyms across the region, the promotion continues to build a true East African platform for competitive development and international exposure.

Kenya’s tourism sector continues to play a central role in driving inclusive economic growth by creating jobs, empowering youth and women, preserving cultural heritage, and safeguarding wildlife and the environment, while strengthening the country’s global connections.

Speaking during the closing ceremony of the 4th Global Tourism Resilience Day Conference and Expo, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi underscored the importance of strengthening the sector’s capacity to withstand global shocks such as the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, geopolitical pressures and economic uncertainty.

Mudavadi noted that under the leadership of William Ruto, the government has adopted a diversification strategy to reduce reliance on traditional wildlife safaris and expand into emerging tourism segments, including cultural tourism, eco-tourism, meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE), sports tourism, gastronomy and digital tourism experiences.

"Tourism continues to power Kenya’s inclusive growth, creating jobs, empowering youth and women, preserving our culture, and protecting our wildlife and environment while connecting us to the world." he said

He commended Rebecca Miano, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, for steering strong sector performance, citing a significant rise in tourism earnings from KSh 268 billion in 2023 to KSh 452.2 billion in 2024, representing a 68.7 per cent increase.

According to the Prime Cabinet Secretary, Kenya received a record 2.4 million international visitors in 2024, with projections indicating that arrivals could reach 5.5 million by 2027. He said this growth is expected to translate into more employment opportunities, expanded business prospects and enhanced community development across the country.

The conference and expo brought together global tourism leaders and partners, including ministers from Jamaica, South Sudan, Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo, reinforcing Kenya’s role in shaping the future of resilient global tourism.

Mudavadi reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to collaborating with international partners to build a tourism sector that is adaptable, sustainable and capable of withstanding emerging global challenges.