Latest news in Kenya? September 6th, 2026
06-09-2026
Major developments and headlines in Kenya:
- Ban on Raw Material Exports & Push for Local Processing: President William Ruto declared that Kenya will halt the export of raw materials for processing abroad, shifting toward a domestic value-addition model to create local jobs and retain wealth. The announcement specifically highlighted plans to establish domestic glass and chemical industries using local minerals, notably around Magadi in Kajiado County. People Daily+ 1
- Dispute Over Lake Magadi Operations: The government has escalated action against Tata Chemicals Magadi over compliance and investment agreements, with President Ruto announcing plans to transition the Lake Magadi soda ash concessions to new investors tasked with developing domestic manufacturing facilities. Anadolu Ajansı
- Crackdown on Foreign Nationals in Small-Scale Retail: Directives have been issued instructing administrative action to bar foreign nationals from operating small retail businesses, hawking, and street vending. The administration emphasized that foreign direct investment should target large-scale industry and job creation rather than competing with local micro-traders. LiveNow Africa+ 1
- Public Healthcare Disruptions: Strikes by healthcare workers, including nurses and clinical officers, continue to affect operations across several county hospitals, pushing patients toward referral centers and private facilities as unions and the Council of Governors negotiate implementation of collective bargaining agreements and employment terms. LiveNow Africa
- Infrastructure and Utility Advisories: Kenya Power scheduled routine maintenance interruptions affecting select coastal areas, while the Kenya Meteorological Department flagged strong winds across northern and coastal counties alongside scattered rainfall in parts of the western and coastal belts. K24 Digital