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  • Illicit Cigarette Market Surges, Costing Kenya Billions in Lost Revenue

    Illicit Cigarette Market Surges, Costing Kenya Billions in Lost Revenue

    Kenya lost an estimated KSh47 billion in excise duty and Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue between 2021 and 2025 through the illicit cigarette trade, according to a new study that warns nearly half of cigarettes consumed in the country are now entering the market outside legal tax and regulatory controls.

    The research, conducted by Kantar Insights East Africa and commissioned by British American Tobacco (BAT) Kenya, estimates that illicit cigarettes accounted for approximately 45.1 percent of the total cigarette market in 2025.

    The findings suggest that almost one in every two cigarettes consumed in Kenya was illicit, leaving legally compliant manufacturers facing growing competition from cheaper products that evade applicable taxes.

    The study estimates that the government lost approximately KSh10.2 billion in potential tax revenue in 2025 alone, up from KSh6.8 billion in 2020. The cumulative five-year loss represents revenue that could otherwise have supported public services and development programs.

    The report also points to the economic impact on the formal tobacco industry. Employment supported across the legal tobacco value chain reportedly declined by 4,700 jobs between 2022 and 2025, while the industry's contribution to gross domestic product fell by KSh37.7 billion.

    Uganda was identified as the leading source of illicit cigarettes entering Kenya, with the study estimating that 95 percent of the illegal products originated from the neighboring country. Differences in excise duty rates across East African markets, alongside porous border points and enforcement gaps, were cited as factors facilitating the trade.

    BAT Kenya Managing Director Sidney Wafula said the growing illicit market was undermining government revenue, legitimate businesses, and employment. The company called for stronger border surveillance, improved investigations, tougher enforcement, and a comprehensive system for tracking tobacco products.

    The study also linked the expansion of illicit trade to a 55 percent increase in cigarette excise duty between 2018 and 2022, during which excise revenue from the legal industry reportedly declined by KSh1 billion.

    However, because the research was commissioned by a cigarette manufacturer, its findings and policy recommendations should be considered alongside independent evidence and government data.

    The report adds pressure on authorities to address cigarette smuggling while balancing tax policy, public health regulation, and enforcement of existing laws.

    https://x.com/citizentvkenya/status/2118389700885094434?a=1zLmbzZ0NlFp3lIMumE&s=20

  • Sakaja Visits Mama Ida Odinga at Karen Home Presents Her With Beautiful Roses

    Sakaja Visits Mama Ida Odinga at Karen Home Presents Her With Beautiful Roses

    The visit took place on Thursday, November 5, 2026, with Sakaja arriving at the Odinga family home carrying a large arrangement of pink, white and coral-coloured roses.

    Mama Ida warmly received the governor before the two sat down for a conversation at the family residence.

    The visit comes at a time when Sakaja is making efforts to strengthen his relationship with the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the Odinga family following his recent decision to leave the United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

    Sakaja's meeting with Mama Ida also comes just days after he held discussions with ODM party leader Oburu Oginga at his home.

    On November 2, the Nairobi governor was officially welcomed into ODM at the party's headquarters, Chungwa House, in Nairobi.

    During his reception, Sakaja said he had joined the party to support its ideals and build on the legacy of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga.

    He also expressed his commitment to working with the party leadership and members to strengthen the political outfit.

    The governor's latest visit to Mama Ida is seen as another important engagement with the Odinga family as he prepares for the 2027 General Election.

    Sakaja is expected to defend his Nairobi gubernatorial seat under the ODM ticket, although the party could face competition from other leaders interested in the same position.

    The courtesy visit has also attracted attention because of the governor's growing political relationship with the Odinga family.

  • Treasury announces two e-Citizen shutdowns, urges Kenyans to complete transactions early

    Treasury announces two e-Citizen shutdowns, urges Kenyans to complete transactions early

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    Listen to articleKenyans are urged to complete urgent transactions ahead of two overnight maintenance exercises scheduled for November 7–8 and November 14–15.Kenyans using the e-Citizen platform have been urged to complete urgent government transactions in advance of two scheduled maintenance exercises that could temporarily disrupt access to online services later this month.

  • Jimmy Carr makes audience gasp with obscene Kimi Antonelli joke after F1 world championship win

    Jimmy Carr makes audience gasp with obscene Kimi Antonelli joke after F1 world championship win

    Jimmy Carr makes audience gasp with obscene Kimi Antonelli joke after F1 world championship win

    Jimmy Carr made the audience gasp after directing an obscene joke at Kimi Antonelli, less than a week after he clinched the F1 World Championship.

    At the age of 20 years and 68 days, Antonelli was crowned the youngest F1 champion at the Mexican Grand Prix on Sunday, describing the moment as an emotional blur that will "live forever".

    The Italian achieved history-making glory by winning nine races and recording 16 podiums to pull well clear of Red Bull's Max Verstappen, Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes teammate George Russell. Antonelli has since received overwhelming support for his remarkable achievement, but others haven't been so kind, with Jimmy Carr making a dark joke about his title win.

    During his most recent stand-up show, comedian Carr brought up Antonelli's F1 championship triumph, making a rather obscene joke about the youngster's achievement.

    Disclaimer: the above below may offend.

    The 54-year-old said: "I don’t like it because he’s Italian and he won the F1 championship in a Mercedes. When the Italians and the Germans come together, bad things happen."

    After finally being crowned champion at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez track following a third-place finish, Antonelli is currently preparing for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix this weekend, and he's already done something that will raise him even higher in people's estimation.

    The 20-year-old has visited the burial site of Ayrton Senna, making it a tradition to visit the three-time F1 world champion's grave in the build-up to the Brazil race after visiting his idol before last year.

    Senna was tragically killed in a crash at the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix. He died in Imola, which is just down the road from the Italian's birthplace of Bologna.

    To pay tribute to the legendary F1 driver, Antonelli is planning to run a special helmet design dedicated to him as a tribute in Brazil. "I will have a special happening for Brazil, for Ayrton,” the newly-crowned F1 champion said.

    After winning the title with four races to spare, Antonelli automatically earned the privilege to use 'number 1' on his car, which is solely reserved for the driver who most recently won the title.

    Lando Norris is currently racing with the number after winning it in 2025, following Max Verstappen's three-peat of F1 titles. However, the Italian has already confirmed he will not follow the tradition, explaining why he will not be changing from his personal race number of 12 for next season.

    "I think I'll stay with number 12," he said. "I'll stay with number 12 because, obviously, it's a very special number for me, but also it's a way for me to stay grounded, to stay humble, and I feel like keeping number 12 allows me to have a new point where to start and build on everything again and try to improve.

    "And also, to be honest, I'm very superstitious, and number one has never been a good number for me. Whenever I put it, it went extremely badly, so one more reason to stay with number 12, so I will stay with number 12."

    Antonelli's decision means the number 1 will not be on the F1 grid in 2027. In fact, none of Mercedes' three champions since 2010 have followed the tradition, after Hamilton elected to stick with his iconic number 44 in his title-winning years and Nico Rosberg retired after triumphing in 2016.

  • Chaos at Nyabisase SDA School as KCSE Candidates Injure Officials and Grab Police Gun

    Chaos at Nyabisase SDA School as KCSE Candidates Injure Officials and Grab Police Gun

    Kisii County Police Commander Ronald Kirui confirmed the recovery after a thorough search of the premises. “We conducted a serious search in the school and have recovered the firearm. The circumstances surrounding its loss are under investigation,” he said.

    Anti-riot police were deployed to restore order. The school was subsequently closed and all students sent home. Some KNEC officials and officers sustained injuries during the attack.

    The institution has a history of unrest. It was shut earlier this year following violent protests over the appointment of a new principal that included stone-throwing and the burning of a dormitory.

    The incident underscores ongoing challenges in securing national examinations amid heightened anti-cheating measures.

    https://x.com/NationAfrica/status/2118378252242710651?a=pwcd4WOPEt_zKSq_LIg&s=20

  • Oburu Breaks Silence on False Reports of His Death

    Oburu Breaks Silence on False Reports of His Death

    The veteran politician said the rumours did not weaken his resolve but instead strengthened his determination to overcome his illness.

    Speaking at his Nairobi residence on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, Oburu said he was recovering well after being discharged from hospital and was looking forward to returning to active politics.

    “Those who wrote me off while I was in hospital by declaring me dead only made me stronger and more determined to fight my sickness. Here I am, recovering and growing stronger by the day,” he said.

    Oburu also attributed his recovery to God's protection, saying those who had circulated the false reports had been proved wrong.

    The senator acknowledged that his illness had temporarily slowed down his political activities but maintained that he was eager to return to parliamentary debates and national political engagements.

    “The sickness slowed my political activities. Very soon, I will be back roaring in the best way I know how,” he added.

    Speakers visit Oburu after hospital discharge

    Oburu made the remarks during a visit by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula and Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, who were accompanied by legislators from both Houses of Parliament.

    The senator thanked the visiting leaders for taking time to check on him, saying their visit had lifted his spirits.

    He also told his supporters to continue praying for him and remain patient as he completed his recovery.

    During the visit, Wetang'ula condemned the spread of false information about Oburu's death and urged him to prioritise his health before returning to demanding political activities.

    “Prioritise your health and avoid rushing back into political engagements before making a full recovery,” Wetang'ula advised.

    Kingi, on his part, said the Senate missed Oburu's contributions to parliamentary debates, proceedings and national political discussions.

    He wished the senator a full recovery and expressed hope that he would return to his parliamentary responsibilities.

    The delegation also included Senate Chief Whip David Wakoli, Senate Minority Leader Stewart Madzayo, Senators William Kisang and Daniel Maanzo, National Assembly Minority Whip Millie Odhiambo, Parliamentary Commissioner Mishi Mboko and MP Eve Obara.

    Oburu's remarks come as he continues recovering from the illness that temporarily kept him away from his political and parliamentary engagements.

    Source

  • KSh25,000 Monthly Pay: Ruto Gives Fresh Update on 50,000 Youth Internship Programme

    KSh25,000 Monthly Pay: Ruto Gives Fresh Update on 50,000 Youth Internship Programme

    President William Ruto has announced that more than 150,000 young graduates have applied for the government’s planned 50,000 paid internship opportunities within just 24 hours of applications opening, highlighting the high demand for workplace experience among Kenyan youths.

    Speaking at State House, Nairobi, on Thursday, November 5, 2026, during the award of a charter to the International Leadership University, Ruto said the government had opened applications through a digital platform ahead of the program's planned rollout in January 2027.

    The President said the initiative would initially accommodate 50,000 graduates from universities, colleges, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.

    Under the program, successful applicants will receive monthly payments ranging between KSh20,000 and KSh25,000, with the government meeting the costs. The payments will also cover graduates placed in private-sector organizations.

    Ruto said the initiative was designed to help young people transition from education into employment by giving them an opportunity to apply their academic and technical skills in real working environments.

    He noted that the government had already engaged industry representatives, including the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), to explore opportunities for placing interns in private companies.

    The president also announced plans to meet university vice-chancellors before the Christmas break to discuss implementation and strengthen cooperation between educational institutions and employers.

    The program is expected to expand beyond the initial intake. Ruto said the government intends to increase the number of beneficiaries to 100,000 and eventually 200,000 within two to three years.

    The initiative builds on the existing Public Service Internship Program, which provides graduates with practical experience and professional mentorship.

    However, the government has yet to provide comprehensive details covering all eligibility requirements, selection procedures, and placement arrangements for the expanded intake.

    The large number of applications received within the first day underscores the competition facing graduates seeking opportunities to gain professional experience.

    While the program is expected to improve employability, successful completion of an internship will not automatically guarantee permanent government employment.

    Its impact will ultimately depend on transparent recruitment, meaningful workplace training, and effective collaboration between government institutions and private employers.

    https://x.com/Kenyans/status/2118278860126970149?a=7iPBO0-WOFeNsbdivas&s=20

  • Valtteri Bottas speaks out with Cadillac seat under threat – but who would replace him?

    Valtteri Bottas speaks out with Cadillac seat under threat – but who would replace him?

    Valtteri Bottas speaks out with Cadillac seat under threat - but who would replace him?

    Valtteri Bottas spent a year on the sidelines before getting an F1 return with Cadillac in 2026, but less than one season on, his Grand Prix future looks in serious doubt.

    Having struggled for form throughout the year compared to teammate Sergio Perez, other names have begun to emerge as potential replacements in 2027.

    Now the Finn has had his say on the fight to save his F1 career.

    Valtteri Bottas joined the new Cadillac team this year with the hopes of a long-term stay, helping to build up the project as it aims to fight its way up the grid.

    However, it’s his teammate Sergio Perez who’s been rewarded with a contract extension, keeping him at Cadillac till 2029.

    Bottas has been slower than Perez in qualifying and finishing well behind him in the races, but has suffered his fair share of mechanical issues too – he had a huge crash after suspension failure last time out in Mexico, and broke down with engine failure in Austin.

    Prior to this weekend’s Sao Paulo GP, the Finn has now had a chance to give his view on the situation.

    “It’s never nice, you know?” Bottas told The Athletic. “It’s just extra distraction. But of course, over the years, I’ve learned to deal with it.

    “It doesn’t help anything. So it’s a bit of a shame in a way. But it’s just how this sport works. The sport is getting more popular than it’s ever been, and everyone wants to be in Formula 1."

    He added: "Everyone wants to find a way to get into Formula 1, one way or another.”

    Valtteri Bottas of Finland during the F1 Grand Prix of Mexico. Image credit: Getty

    What’s made Cadillac’s choice trickier is that there isn’t a candidate that would be an obvious upgrade on Bottas should it decide to make a change, contributing to a decision being delayed while Perez’s contract has been agreed.

    “At the moment, nothing has changed,” said Bottas. “The team still seems to be happy with what I’m doing. I know what the target is, it’s long-term. I know what my terms are in the paper.

    “So that’s why, to me at the moment, it’s just noise. That’s where we are.”

    Bottas says he believes a decision should be made “soon”, but noted the moving parts in such a process.

    “With this structure that we have, they always need all the approvals from the board, which includes GM [General Motors] members, [majority shareholder] TWG members, all these people,” he emphasised.

    “Everything needs to be approved before. But that’s, I think, pretty soon.”

    Colton Herta: The American hotshot

    Should Cadillac decide not to continue with Valtteri Bottas, the leading candidate to replace him is Colton Herta.

    Currently Cadillac’s ‘Test Driver’ due to not having accrued enough points for an F1 Super Licence needed to race in the world championship, the American has been running in Free Practice sessions to do so. He currently has 39 points, and is running in Sao Paulo FP1 to gain the final point.

    However, the former IndyCar star hasn’t been on the pace of Perez, and has, by his one admission, been somewhat ragged at times when running in F1 sessions.

    Frederik Vesti: The Mercedes man

    Dane Frederik Vesti has long been on test and simulator duties for Mercedes, impressing many with his technical feedback and knowledge.

    He clocked third fastest time as an ‘F1 Rookie’ in the Mexico City GP FP1, throwing his hat into the ring for the Cadillac seat.

    Esteban Ocon: F1 reject’s final chance?

    Esteban Ocon has managed to fall out with teammates and bosses at Force India, Alpine and Haas. Would Cadillac really take a chance on him?

    Liam Lawson: New Zealand’s Raging Bull

    Outspoken Liam Lawson has been massively impressive in the Red Bull junior squad this year, but now sees his seat under threat from F2 star Nikola Tsolov.

    Would Cadillac offer him a new home?

  • Kenyan Woman Loses KSh1.3 Million to Fake Healers After Returning From Qatar

    Kenyan Woman Loses KSh1.3 Million to Fake Healers After Returning From Qatar

    A Kenyan woman who travelled to Qatar hoping to improve her family's life has been left devastated after losing approximately KSh 1.3 million to men who claimed they could treat her illness.

    Speaking to TUKO.co.ke, Alice revealed that she travelled abroad in 2021 with the hope of earning enough money to give her son a better future.

    While working in Qatar, she received a monthly salary of between KSh 35,000 and KSh 40,000. Her earnings sometimes increased to KSh 50,000 when she received tips.

    By 2023, she had saved approximately KSh 1.5 million. Her dream was to purchase a piece of land and eventually construct a family home.

    However, her situation took a different turn after she developed a stubborn fungal infection that caused intense itching around her stomach, back and thighs.

    Although she visited hospitals in Qatar and received treatment, her health did not improve. Disappointed by the results, she turned to YouTube in search of other ways to get help.

    It was there that she came across several men who claimed to have special powers to heal different illnesses.

    Alice said they convinced her that her condition was caused by witchcraft and promised to remove the curse in exchange for money.

    One of the men allegedly sent her a video showing her son's photograph inside a pot before threatening that the child would die if she failed to pay him.

    Her total losses eventually reached approximately KSh 1.3 million.

    After returning to Kenya, she reported the matter at Kasarani Police Station. Detectives helped arrange a meeting with one of the suspects at TRM Mall, where he was arrested.

    The suspect remains in remand as the case continues.

    Alice continues to struggle with the infection and cannot consistently afford medication. Her son has also missed admission to Grade 10 over unpaid school fees of approximately KSh 40,000.

    She is now seeking medical assistance, financial support and justice as she attempts to rebuild her life.

    https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19zN3X7bgM/

  • Kalonzo Blames Police Over Migori Attack as Alai Names Two Leaders He Should Have Avoided

    Kalonzo Blames Police Over Migori Attack as Alai Names Two Leaders He Should Have Avoided

    President William Ruto and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) faction led by Dr Oburu Oginga have maintained their commitment to working together, following an understanding reached between Ruto and the late Raila Odinga. The two camps are reportedly pursuing a joint manifesto aimed at strengthening their political partnership and increasing their chances of forming the next government.

    Meanwhile, the opposition has intensified its grassroots mobilisation efforts as it seeks to challenge the Kenya Kwanza administration. This comes amid criticism from Democracy for the Citizens Party leader Rigathi Gachagua, who recently accused opposition leaders of being politically lazy and relying on endorsements instead of actively mobilising voters.

    Alai's remarks have sparked mixed reactions online, with several Kenyans maintaining that every political leader has a constitutional right to campaign and seek support in any part of the country.