NACADA (the National Academic Advising Association) has issued a warning to influencers and content creators regarding the promotion of alcohol and other substances. They emphasize the responsibility that comes with having a platform, particularly when it involves products that can impact the health and well-being of young audiences.

This caution arises from a growing concern about the impact such endorsements can have, particularly on younger audiences who often look up to these figures as role models.

With social media playing a crucial role in shaping perceptions and behaviors, the responsibility that comes with influence is more critical than ever.

The organization has urged influencers to reflect on their role and the potential consequences of their endorsements. By promoting alcohol or other substances, they may unintentionally contribute to harmful patterns, undermining the well-being of their followers. The association advocates for a shift toward promoting healthier lifestyle choices and responsible behavior instead.

NACADA boss Anthony Omerikwa said that the influence of social media has the power to shape or wreck behaviours, among vulnerable groups, especially youth and children hence digital content creators and influencers are responsible for upholding ethical standards.

Omerikwa went on to say that the increased trends in the promotion of the use of drugs and substances have posed a significant threat to the fight against alcohol and drug abuse.

On September 18, 2024, Kenya’s Parliament officially approved the appointment of Douglas Kanja as the new Inspector General (IG) of Police. Kanja’s appointment comes at a time when the National Police Service faces significant scrutiny due to concerns about police impunity, misconduct, and the rule of law.

His approval was met with praise from various members of Parliament, who highlighted his vast experience in law enforcement, including his previous role as commandant of the General Service Unit.

Several MPs called on Kanja to address pressing issues within the police force, such as improving the welfare of officers and ensuring accountability, especially in light of recent controversies involving the police. Kanja’s predecessor, acting IG Gilbert Masengeli, was recently sentenced to six months in prison for contempt of court after failing to comply with court orders regarding the disappearance of individuals, further increasing the pressure on Kanja to restore public trust in the police service​.

Kanja is now set to be sworn in by President William Ruto, and many hope he will spearhead reforms that will enhance professionalism and transparency within the force.

Adani Airport Holdings Limited revealed that it paid Ksh. 6.5 million (USD 50,000) to the Kenyan government as a review fee for its proposal to take over and upgrade the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

This payment was made to the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Facilitation Fund, as required by law. The company’s proposal, submitted in March 2024, aims to address infrastructure issues at JKIA, and it includes a feasibility study on the project’s financial, social, and environmental impacts.

The project has sparked controversy, with opposition from the Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) and the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), who argue that the process lacked transparency and public consultation. As a result, the High Court suspended the project on September 9, 2024, pending further review. The case is scheduled for a mention on October 8, 2024. Despite these legal challenges, Adani claims the proposal aligns with Kenya’s infrastructure priorities and promises to deliver value to the public.

“Upon submission of the PIP, the 5th respondent (Adani Airport Holdings Limited) duly paid a review fee of USD 50,000 to the Public Private Partnership Facilitation Fund as required by the law,” the company submits through its lawyers.

Dagoretti High School in Nairobi has been closed indefinitely following a violent altercation that left 11 students injured.

The unrest occurred on the night of September 15, 2024, stemming from a basketball game dispute between two groups of students—Sudanese and Kenyan. The match escalated into a broader confrontation that took on religious overtones, fueling tensions and resulting in extensive damage to school property.

The initial fight, which began during the basketball game, quickly spiraled out of control. Students began attacking one another with stones and sticks, and the conflict raged throughout the night. Police were called in to quell the violence and restore order as the situation intensified. Several students sustained injuries, with 11 being rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment, though all were reported to be in stable condition​

In a statement issued by Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie, the unrest caused some damages to school.

“The incident at Dagoretti High School has caused considerable damage as the Boys went on rampage at night. Thankfully, even with the cases of injuries that are being attended to, there are no fatalities or burning. All necessary actions and procedures forward have been activated,” Kiarie said.

Local authorities, including the police and education officers, are now investigating the underlying causes of the conflict, particularly the role that religious divisions played in heightening the violence.

Community leaders have called for an urgent resolution to the issue, stressing the need for reconciliation and a return to peace within the school.

The indefinite closure of Dagoretti High School underscores the severity of the unrest, and authorities are expected to release further updates once investigations are complete.