AGP Executive Report

Fuel Crisis Fallout: Protests over record fuel prices turned deadly again, with at least four people killed and 30+ injured as a nationwide transport strike disrupted travel and commerce; in Nakuru, dozens of demonstrators were fined after court arraignments. Government Response: Deputy President Kithure Kindiki urged calm talks, pointing to VAT cuts and diesel price reductions while warning against politicising the crisis. Transport Truce: After hours of negotiations in Nairobi, ride-hailing and PSV operators resumed services for seven days to keep talks going. Capital Markets: Kenya listed its first infrastructure-focused fund on the Nairobi bourse—Spearhead Africa Infrastructure Fund—backed by UK support, aiming to mobilise long-term local-currency financing for energy and digital projects. Tech & Security: As GITEX Nairobi opens, Checker raised $8m to help banks launch stablecoins via a single API, while Censys and EVAD showcased SOC modernization for safer cloud and AI adoption. Regional Politics: IGAD said it will deploy election observers for Ethiopia’s June 1 vote.

Fuel Crisis Fallout: Kenya’s nationwide transport strike over EPRA fuel hikes turned deadly Monday, with four reported deaths and 30+ injuries as roads were blocked and police fired tear gas; the chaos left commuters stranded and businesses shut, while Interior Minister Murkomen said 348 arrests were made and “criminal elements” hijacked protests. Policy and Politics: Treasury CS John Mbadi urged “sober” dialogue, warning against “emotional decisions” that could worsen the economy, as matatu operators publicly rejected a government claim of a breakthrough on bridging diesel-kerosene pricing. Security Response: A Nairobi police officer was arrested over alleged release of fuel-protest suspects, adding to scrutiny of how arrests were handled during the unrest. Markets and Costs: EM stocks slid and FX stayed muted as global bond selloffs fed inflation fears tied to the Iran war and oil-market stress. Industry Pressure: Kenya’s manufacturers flagged worsening conditions after KNBS showed manufacturing’s GDP contribution slipped to 7.1% in 2025, with agro-processing contracting. Digital Payments Push: Mastercard and Yellow Card plan stablecoin-enabled payment pilots starting in Nigeria, with Kenya named among initial focus markets.

Fuel Crisis Turns Deadly: Kenya’s nationwide transport strike over record fuel prices turned violent in Nairobi and beyond, with police saying four people were killed, 30+ injured, and 225 arrested as protesters burned tyres, blocked roads and clashed with officers. Policy Pressure on EPRA: The unrest follows EPRA’s latest retail hikes (diesel +23.5%, petrol +8%) tied to Middle East disruptions, while the regulator also moved to cap pipeline transport tariffs to cushion pump prices. Political Fallout: Opposition figures and allies traded blame with Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen accusing Rigathi Gachagua of fuelling violence, as Ruto held an urgent virtual meeting with key ministries. Business & Tech Signals: While commuters were stranded, Kenya’s fintech and crypto crowd pushed for “smarter” stablecoin rules at a Nairobi conference, and AI Everything Kenya X GITEX Kenya is set to bring major startups to Nairobi this week. Regional Lens: Ethiopia urged Horn countries to take “greater ownership” of peace efforts at the Jigjiga Forum, as AfCFTA leaders reiterated integration as protection against global fragmentation. Markets Watch: Africa Bitcoin Corporation won JSE Main Board approval, with the move set for May 22.

Transport Shock: A nationwide matatu and PSV fuel strike kicks off Monday, May 18, after transport stakeholders backed the shutdown over EPRA’s latest fuel price hike—Super Metro already says it will suspend operations, leaving hundreds stranded across Nairobi as commuters scramble for alternatives. Digital Finance Push: Kenya’s blockchain and fintech crowd is urging faster stablecoin adoption to cut slow, costly cross-border payments, even as regulators move to formalise digital asset rules. Trade & Payments: Absa is weighing joining China’s yuan settlement system (CIPS) to simplify trade payments, following Standard Bank’s earlier CIPS connection. Health Financing Debate: A fresh argument says UHC reforms need more than funding—service delivery gaps, supply delays and governance failures are still biting. Regional Energy Talks: Uganda’s Museveni says he met Dangote on a proposed East African refinery, backing value addition and regional integration. DRC Ebola: Congo’s outbreak in Ituri has risen to 87 deaths as screening and contact tracing intensify.

Fuel Price Pressure & Legal Push: Kenya’s fuel shock is now spilling into court and politics, with an activist asking the High Court to suspend EPRA’s May–June increases over alleged lack of public participation and missing pricing transparency, while ODM’s Oburu Oginga vows to press President Ruto and Treasury CS John Mbadi for tax relief, arguing households are “deeply” feeling the weight. Power Bills Jump: EPRA also added new charges to May electricity bills, including forex and fuel-related costs, lifting the cost per unit. Tax Filing Disruption: KRA announced a four-hour iTax maintenance downtime as Kenyans rush to file returns. Energy Expansion: Government launched construction of 114 solar mini-grids across 14 counties, targeting 300,000+ villagers. Regional Watch: Kenya remains on Ebola alert after DRC’s outbreak, with counties told to activate preparedness. Digital Finance Momentum: Blockchain players urged faster stablecoin adoption, betting clearer rules can cut cross-border payment delays. Diplomacy & Energy: President Ruto held talks with Azerbaijan’s Ilham Aliyev in Baku on oil, gas and renewables, including partnerships tied to Kenya’s 10,000MW target.

TVET Crackdown: KNBS says it will census every technical and vocational education and training (TVET) institution nationwide from May 20, targeting fake accreditation claims and mapping enrolment, staffing, infrastructure and equipment to guide funding. Ebola Alarm (DR Congo): Congo’s new Ebola outbreak in Ituri is worsening fast, with deaths rising to 87 and Africa CDC warning of active community transmission as WHO declares it a public health emergency of international concern. Nairobi Works: KURA has announced night-time partial closures on the Ngong/Naivasha road near Junction Mall (8pm–4am, May 18–31) for final asphalt works on the flyover. Digital Finance Pressure: Kenya moves to tighten oversight of crypto users under new licensing, reporting and compliance rules. Power vs AI Ambition: Microsoft’s proposed 1-gigawatt Kenya data centre faces a hard stop—Ruto says it would require switching off power to “half the country.” Africa Health Policy: AU medicines officials push to integrate traditional medicine into primary healthcare, but with regulation to protect patients.

Ebola Alert: Congo’s Ituri province is reeling as a new Ebola outbreak has killed at least 80 people, with authorities racing to intensify screening and contact tracing. Kenya Health Watch: Kenya has activated border and airport surveillance and urged strict hygiene as the risk of importation is judged “moderate” amid regional travel. Fuel Pressure Politics: Treasury says it will push for fresh talks to lower fuel prices after the latest EPRA hike sparked anger and renewed strike threats, while MPs push to recall Parliament to debate amendments. Oil Refinery Showdown: Tanzania’s Samia and Dangote met in Dar es Salaam as the $15bn–$17bn refinery debate keeps swinging between Mombasa and Tanga, with Dangote now floating a regional partnership model. Jobs & Growth: IFC and Masai Ujiri’s Zaria Group are backing an Africa-wide sports and entertainment district plan starting in Kigali and Nairobi. Urban Upgrade: Nairobi’s CBD walkway revamp adds safer pedestrian space under the Sakaja “Let’s Make Nairobi Work” push.

Smartphone Push: Vodacom is betting on device financing to move prepaid customers onto smartphones, using “Easy2Own” plans with small daily or weekly repayments and phone lock/unlock rules to protect affordability. Digital Inclusion & Youth: Paradigm Initiative is urging governments to stop excluding informal youth entrepreneurs from social programmes due to weak digital access and patchy policy delivery. Corruption & Accountability: Fresh whistleblower claims accuse ICT Ministry finance chief M.M. Mosiria of delaying facilitation and travel allowances, leaving officers stranded and operations stalled. Fuel Shock Fallout: Trade lobbies warn the latest diesel and petrol hikes will ripple through transport, manufacturing and food costs, hitting households and MSMEs. Public Services Tech: UNICEF highlights Digital PFM as a way to make budget money “visible” from national lines to schools and clinics. Justice Debate: Opinion pieces question whether Kenya’s courts and jails are effectively “for the poor,” using the Obado case as a flashpoint. Sports & Women’s Rugby: Kenya Lionesses utility player Stellah Wafula credits international exposure for sharpening the team ahead of the Rugby Africa Cup in Nairobi. Sovereignty Row: Kenya’s defence pact with France is reigniting debate over legal immunity and accountability.

Fuel Shock Watch: Kenya’s latest EPRA review pushed petrol to KSh 214.25 and diesel to KSh 242.92 (kerosene unchanged), with the government blaming Middle East-driven oil volatility while critics question why stabilisation spending focused heavily on kerosene; disability leaders warn the hike is already cutting access to healthcare and mobility. Cost-of-Living Pressure: The Kenya Chamber of Commerce projects food and consumer prices could rise by up to 7%, and matatus are threatening fare jumps of as much as 50%. Accountability Clash: Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro calls the G2G fuel import setup a “scam,” alleging profiteering by connected officials. Health & Built Environment: Health PS Mary Muthoni urges architects to embed public health rules into public works, citing the huge share of life spent indoors. Digital & Inclusion: TECNO rolls out an AI phone ecosystem for education, translation and small businesses. Aviation & Trade: Kenya Airways becomes FedEx’s Nairobi ground-handling partner, strengthening JKIA’s cargo role.

US-India Corporate Fallout: The US has agreed to settle a bribery-linked SEC lawsuit involving Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, with civil penalties set at $6m for Adani and $12m for his nephew—no admission of guilt, while criminal cases are expected to be dropped. Kenya Sports Governance: KPBC boss Reuben Ndolo warns promoters against unauthorised bouts, saying the commission will move to court and crack down on “rogue” events that sideline real fighters and unpaid officials. Africa Forward Summit Aftershocks: Nairobi’s Africa-Forward push is still dominating headlines, with renewed pressure to overhaul trade and debt rules and turn summit promises into execution. Fuel Costs: EPRA raised prices again—super petrol up by about Sh16.65/litre and diesel by about Sh46.29/litre—raising transport pressure for households and businesses. Housing & Cities: PCS Musalia Mudavadi heads to the World Urban Forum in Azerbaijan, urging a shift from housing talk to bankable delivery. Health & Climate: UNAIDS warns HIV prevention and treatment services are faltering as funding drops, while new research initiatives target faster climate-resilient crop breeding for drylands.

Aviation & Trade Links: flydubai will launch direct Dubai–Benghazi flights from June 17, three times a week, boosting travel and business access via Dubai. Fuel Costs: EPRA raised May 15–June 14 pump prices—petrol up about Sh16.65/litre and diesel up about Sh46.29/litre—while citing VAT reinstatement and global price pressure, with a Sh5bn cushion from the Petroleum Development Levy. Wildlife & Public Health: a World Animal Protection report says Kenya’s legal live reptile exports rose from 8,551 (2013) to 86,330 (2023), with 77% of species declining in the wild, raising sustainability and disease-risk concerns. Research & Policy Capacity: APHRC unveiled the Ulwazi II Knowledge Hub in Nairobi as it marks 25 years, aiming to strengthen an African-led knowledge system. Governance & Compliance: PBORA says NGOs registered under the old law will automatically transition into the new PBO framework, but must update records. Education & Integrity: EACC charged a KMTC accountant over alleged KCSE result forgery used for university admission and promotions. Politics Ahead of 2027: a survey puts DP Kithure Kindiki as Ruto’s most preferred running mate.

Port Expansion: CMA CGM is set to pour about Sh104b into upgrading two Mombasa container terminals, as Kenya deepens shipping partnerships that also include Maersk’s push to boost fresh-produce exports via the Naivasha Inland Container Depot. Security & Tech: Kenya’s security model is shifting toward CCTV, digital reporting and coordinated response, but cybercrime and data misuse are widening the pressure on regulators and institutions. Construction Costs: The clinker levy is still reshaping the sector—cement clinker imports collapsed in 2024, and the industry is now clawing back with improved output and housing completions. Africa Forward Fallout: France’s Emmanuel Macron faced backlash after interrupting an Africa summit panel to demand silence, even as Paris continues to sell a “partnership” agenda. Energy Watch: Kenyans brace for another EPRA fuel price review as global oil volatility persists. Data Privacy: Safaricom has been ordered to pay Sh9.9m after a court found constitutional rights violations tied to a major subscriber data breach. Coast Property Boom: Lifestyle migration is driving coastal land prices sharply higher, with towns like Diani and Watamu seeing steep gains since 2020.

Education Funding Crunch: Basic Education PS Prof. Julius Bitok has asked Parliament to plug a Sh71.77 billion gap to protect capitation, textbooks, exam invigilators, school feeding and Grade 9 classroom construction under the CBC. Property Dispute in Court: A Nairobi businessman has rushed to the Environment and Land Court to stop the sale/transfer of a disputed Sh70 million property, seeking an injunction pending hearing. Fintech Momentum: Thndr has topped the Financial Times Africa’s Fastest-Growing Companies 2026 list, scaling retail investing from Egypt into Abu Dhabi with millions of downloads. Africa Forward Summit Fallout: Kenya and France’s summit continues to dominate headlines—police used teargas to disperse anti-France protesters near KICC, while leaders pushed investment, energy and digital deals. Aviation Rewards: Kenya Airways and Accor are linking loyalty points, letting travellers convert Asante Rewards and ALL Accor points across flights and hotels. Health & Finance: Co-op Bank posted a strong Q1 profit jump, while SHA’s new package clarifies maternity and cancer cover—though some sickle-cell allocations remain contested.

Macron Backlash at Africa Summit: French President Emmanuel Macron interrupted an Africa Forward panel in Nairobi, demanding silence and sparking viral backlash over “total lack of respect,” even as he pushed a new France-Africa investment push. France-Africa Money Push: Kenya is set to get the lion’s share of Macron’s $27bn (about Sh3.5tn) package, framed as “partnership of equals” with co-investment in energy, AI and agriculture. Kenya-Tea Market Deal: Kenyan specialty tea farmers secured a landmark offtake and promotion agreement in Nairobi, giving direct access to premium global buyers via Palais des Thés and Equity Group. Public-Private Projects Pipeline: The State says 51 key PPP projects worth about $13bn (Sh1.7tn) are in the pipeline, as Treasury warns budget space is tight and debt servicing keeps rising. Boda Boda Credit Snapshot: A report says most boda boda asset-financing customers are young, averaging 33 years. Mining Safety After Tragedy: Interior CS Murkomen pledged safer mining and support for artisanal miners after the West Pokot gold mine collapse. Court Clears Kenya-U.S. Health Deal: The Court of Appeal temporarily lifted blocks, letting Kenya proceed with the controversial framework pending a final ruling later in 2026.

Africa Forward Summit Fallout: France’s Emmanuel Macron doubled down on “partnership of equals” and pledged €23bn for energy, AI and agriculture, but the mood was dented when he publicly scolded a noisy crowd at the University of Nairobi, drawing fresh accusations of patronising behaviour. Kenya–France Deals: Kenya and France also signed 11 agreements, including infrastructure and digital cooperation, while the summit’s big-ticket message stayed the same: less aid, more investment and sovereignty. Aviation Green Push: Kenya Airways and Rubis inked a Sh10.6b pact to build Africa’s first dedicated sustainable aviation fuel refinery near JKIA, targeting 32,000 tonnes capacity. Climate Pressure: UN chief António Guterres warned Africa is paying the highest price for climate change and urged urgent reform of global climate financing. Health & Labour: NSSF says job loss doesn’t unlock withdrawals until retirement/age 50; doctors issued June strike notices for Meru and Isiolo. Governance Watch: EACC arrested three officials over forged academic certificates worth Ksh17.9m in salaries. Sports Economy: CAF’s Motsepe said Morocco’s AFCON generated $2bn for the host economy, while he reassured East Africa that AFCON 2027 is on track.

France–Africa Summit in Nairobi: Emmanuel Macron and President William Ruto are hosting a two-day Africa Forward Summit with 30+ African leaders, pitching “partnership of equals” and announcing €23bn in investment for energy transition, digital/AI, maritime and agriculture. Diplomacy with friction: Macron also sparked backlash after interrupting a youth session at the University of Nairobi, calling the noise “a total lack of respect,” while critics question France’s motives as it recalibrates after setbacks in West Africa. UNON expansion: UN Secretary-General António Guterres launched a major $340m Nairobi headquarters upgrade, calling the city a “pillar” of multilateralism. Transport policy: NTSA says 200+ manual logbook staff won’t be sacked under the e-logbook rollout—redeployment and retraining instead. Roads finance: KeNHA has started procurement for a 142km Isiolo–Mandera upgrade after securing a KSh28bn AfDB loan. Local governance & services: KBC will expand via Huduma Centres across 47 counties. Health & integrity: A video from Embu Level 5 Hospital alleges an intoxicated practitioner demanded bribes. Agriculture innovation: Teen innovators from Kiambu won the Africa Earth Prize for a low-cost maize-and-coconut exhaust filter.