AGP Executive Report

Cultural Diplomacy & Trade: A Zimbabwe-based UK diaspora says FESTAC’s expansion—after an MoU with the Zimbabwe Indigenous Miners Association—could unlock trade and investment across Zimbabwe and SADC, with Bulawayo flagged as a cultural hub. Digital Activism: Kenyan content creators are shifting activism online, using TikTok, Instagram, X and YouTube for civic education and mobilisation. Media Freedom Under Pressure (Region): Uganda’s military crackdown deepened as opposition leader Kizza Besigye faces treason trial and Nation Media Group outlets remain shut; talks are reportedly underway to reopen, drawing Amnesty and international backlash. Kenya’s Creative Economy Push: Technopolis Development Authority graduated 2,700 youth from the Jitume Digital Media Tools programme, while the Konza Digital Media City project moves into the design phase. Sports & Culture: Capital FM signed mountaineer Martin Mumo as Official Media Partner for Project Everest 2027. Civic Safety & Accountability: DCI warned Kenyans after an arrest over social media sharing of sensitive information tied to protected persons. Tax Tech Stress: KRA said iTax delays hit as traffic surged on the final day for 2025 income tax returns. Local Protest Update: Nairobi saw fresh protests in Mathare over alleged enforced disappearances of activists.

Youth Skills & Jobs: KeNHA has opened applications for a one-year, fully funded technical training programme for unemployed youth in Isiolo, Meru, Wajir and Garissa, with courses ranging from fashion and plumbing to ICT and automotive mechanics. Tax Deadline: KRA says there will be no extension for the June 30 deadline to file 2025 income tax returns, warning of default assessments and penalties. Digital Governance & Safety: Rwanda is rolling out biometric digital IDs for citizens and refugees, while Kenya pushes cybersecurity to support its growing digital public services. Arts on the Move: Mark Maina and Nick Wambugu’s Kalasha award-winning documentary “The People Shall” screens at the European Parliament’s S&D Africa Days on July 1, spotlighting youth-led anti-Finance Bill activism and digital creativity. Sports & Community: A former Kenya rugby star, Ken Isaiah Moseti, was rescued from the streets after a viral appeal, reigniting debate on athlete welfare after retirement. Road & Public Life: A senior police officer died in a head-on crash on the Machakos–Kitui Road, as police investigations continue.

Agri-Food Finance: The FINAS 2026 Summit opens in Nairobi, bringing policymakers and financiers to tackle Africa’s $100bn annual agriculture financing gap as Kenyans face rising food prices and hunger. School Sports Spotlight: Nyanza’s Our Lady of Mercy Ringa Boys and St Mary’s Yala renew their faith-rooted rivalry in the 2026 secondary schools games, with a “pool of death” group set to decide semi-finalists. Science Journalism: MESHA names winners of its inaugural Health and Climate Change Journalism Awards, celebrating reporting on sand dams, climate-linked health impacts, and women’s reproductive choices. Digital Policy Talk: COMESA launches consultations in Nairobi to harmonise AI and digital inclusion policies across member states. Prison Reform & Community Care: Dawoodi Bohra’s Project Rise donates trees, a borehole and water support to Shimo la Tewa Medium Prison, pairing rehabilitation with better sanitation. Media Freedom & Accountability: Kenya’s court challenges a Kenya-US rare earths deal over secrecy, while IGAD faces public governance debate amid calls for facts over anonymous claims. Entertainment & Culture: Liboi drops “Nairobi,” a city-life anthem born from grief and exhaustion; plus Danielle Brooks launches “The InnerMission” podcast. Sports & Youth: NFL Flag Championship lands in Nairobi July 9-11, featuring national teams and U13 squads from five African countries.

Press Freedom Under Fire (Uganda): Uganda’s military chief Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordered the shutdown of Nation Media Group outlets including NTV Uganda and Daily Monitor, saying “I do not believe in a free press,” while soldiers surrounded Kampala offices and power was cut; Uganda’s UCC is now seeking “verified information,” and East African press councils are urging de-escalation. Media Accountability (Kenya): Kenya’s police say they’re taking enforced disappearance and torture claims seriously, urging the public to report cases, including the missing activist Davis Lichuma. Entertainment Spotlight (Kenya): Celebrity Fight Night’s second edition went viral after Barak Jacuzzi beat Benzema and Brahim Ouma won his cage match; meanwhile, Janet Mbugua announced her return to NTV with a new weekly health show, Healthy Nation. Local Culture on Screen: Paramount+’s The Agency Season 2 highlights Kenya’s Ngara, Kibera, KICC rooftop and Kisumu’s Kajulu, with cast praising the country’s hospitality. Civic Life & Policy: NCWSC warns Nairobi residents against water theft as enforcement intensifies, with penalties up to Sh1m. Public Safety (Transport): NTSA clarifies school and commercial vehicle inspection rules won’t trigger penalties yet, urging motorists to rely on official updates.

Education & Talent: Education CS Julius Ogamba urged school principals to stop sidelining sports, music, drama and other co-curricular activities under Kenya’s Competency-Based Education system. Press Freedom Under Pressure: Uganda’s military chief Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordered the shutdown of NTV Uganda and Daily Monitor, with reports of raids, power cuts and broadcasters moving online—prompting regional calls for an end to hostility between governments and media. Human Rights & Accountability: Kenya’s National Police Service acknowledged enforced disappearance and torture allegations circulating online and confirmed a missing person report for activist Davis Lichuma filed at Central Police Station. Road Safety Policy Debate: Jubilee hopeful Fred Matiang’i called for suspension of NTSA’s planned mandatory annual vehicle inspections, arguing it’s insensitive, costly and not evidence-based. Kenya in Global Entertainment: Paramount+ spy thriller The Agency filmed in Kenya, putting Nairobi and Kisumu on a major international TV spotlight. Music Spotlight: Reggae artist Vernal Sage’s Good Over Evil broke into top charts, with momentum building for a July video release. Public Health Policy: Kenya’s Ministry of Health is collecting views to amend the Tobacco Control Act to better cover new nicotine products and crack down on outlets near schools.

Media Freedom Under Pressure: Uganda’s Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordered the shutdown of NTV Uganda and the Daily Monitor, saying he “does not believe in a free press,” with security reportedly deployed at Nation Media Group offices in Kampala. Kenya Protest Aftermath: Rights groups say six Kenyan protesters arrested during the Gen Z memorial march were “dumped and tortured,” while one remains missing after arrests tied to the 2024 police crackdown. Tax Deadline: Kenya Revenue Authority ruled out any extension of the June 30 deadline for filing 2025 income tax returns, urging taxpayers to use iTax, eCitizen, WhatsApp help, or USSD. Sports Spotlight: Kenya’s Edmund Serem targets glory in the men’s 3,000m steeplechase at the Paris Diamond League, with fellow Kenyans in the stacked field. Fashion & Language: A Kericho learner’s story highlights how mother-tongue support in education can boost comprehension, while “Couture” continues to draw attention for its fashion-world drama. Arts & Culture: Africa Day celebrations in Cavan brought together communities across Africa through food, dance, music, and storytelling. Media-Politics Tension: In Kenya, Esther Passaris urged journalists to tone down negative headlines, while debate continues over President Ruto’s fight with The Standard over Kenya’s media space.

Police & rights crackdown: Rights groups say six protesters arrested during Nairobi’s Gen Z memorial march were later found “dumped and tortured,” with one still missing, as investigations and court appearances continue. Tax deadline: Kenya Revenue Authority says there will be no extension of the June 30 deadline for 2025 income tax returns, urging filing via iTax, eCitizen, WhatsApp and USSD. Media freedom flashpoint: President Ruto’s attacks on The Standard Media Group and Gideon Moi-linked coverage have reignited debate on state pressure and press freedom ahead of 2027. Entertainment & pop culture: Angelina Jolie’s Paris fashion drama “Couture” is out, but critics say it’s underpowered by limited Jolie screen time. Music/creator fallout: Dr Ofweneke apologises to Stevo Simple Boy after a podcast controversy, while Stevo hits back at Andrew Kibe over comments about fatherhood. Public health & culture: Nairobi County official Geoffrey Mosiria orders “Nairobi Birdman” to surrender pet birds over zoonotic-disease fears. Sports: Springbok Women name an experienced core for Tests vs USA, with Kenya call-ups included.

Police Accountability: Inspector General Douglas Kanja has ordered an internal probe after a Nakuru video showed officers manhandling a disabled protester during the June 25 Gen Z anniversary demos, with findings due in seven days. Media Under Pressure: A Nakuru abduction attempt targeted Standard Group associate editor Alex Kiprotich by four armed men, days after Ruto criticised the media house’s coverage. Sports & Discipline: Kenyan half-marathon star Kibiwott Kandie received a seven-year ban for anti-doping rule violations, sidelining him until 2032. Arts & Culture: Hubei Media Week in Africa opened in Nairobi to boost China–Kenya ties in media, film and the arts. Travel & Lifestyle: Mastercard launched Priceless Africa on Priceless.com, adding curated experiences across Kenya and other destinations. Community & Inclusion: A documentary-backed climate study warns extreme rainfall is already making Mathare grassroots football pitches unplayable, threatening the sport’s future. Diaspora Festivities: AMAKE announced Malawi Independence Day celebrations in Nairobi on July 11, with cultural performances and sports.

Cultural Diplomacy: Seeing China: Hubei Media Week in Africa opened in Nairobi, with Kenyan and Chinese broadcasters pushing co-productions in media, film and the arts to deepen Sino-Kenyan cultural ties. Creative Industry: Cannes Lions’ final day named winners including Glass: The Lion for Change, Film Lions, Sustainable Development Goals Lions, Dan Wieden Titanium Lions and the Grand Prix for Good—highlighting global creative work with first-time Grands Prix for Kenya. Digital Media & Ads: Out There Media and Pulse Africa announced a strategic partnership to expand mobile digital advertising across Africa, starting with Nigeria and Ghana. Public Accountability: Kenya’s NPS launched an investigation into alleged police mistreatment of Nakuru activist James Mbugua during June 25 protests after a viral video showed officers manhandling a disabled suspect. Courtroom Limits: Kibera High Court barred media from covering the Utumishi Girls dormitory fire murder case as eight accused students face mental health assessments before plea. Arts & Society: A refugee girls’ education feature spotlights lifelong learning through HER Lab in Kenya, while East African music coverage spotlights 2026 cross-border hits shaping the region’s sound. Sports Spotlight: Kandie Nyanga received a seven-year suspension for doping violations, adding fresh pressure to Kenya’s athletics scene.

Our Ocean Conference: Kenya’s Mombasa hosted the first Our Ocean Conference in Africa, ending with 300+ voluntary commitments and $6.4bn pledged for marine protection, fisheries monitoring and blue-economy work. Gen Z Memorial Protests: Nairobi saw tear gas and heavy roadblocks as police dispersed crowds marking the June 25, 2024 protests; 355 arrests were reported, while rights groups accused blanket restrictions and attacks on journalists. Tech & Innovation: Technical University of Kenya (TUK) announced a Foundation-funded Innovation Hub starting July 1, aiming to boost teaching, research and entrepreneurship. Sports & Integrity: Former half-marathon world record holder Kibiwott Kandie received a seven-year ban for two anti-doping violations, backdated to March 2025. Arts & Culture: Birmingham’s Somalinimo 2026 plans a global celebration of Somali identity and creativity, with organisers aiming to challenge stereotypes through culture and community events. Public Health & Lifestyle: “Nairobi Bird Man” videos sparked calls for Ministry of Health action over possible zoonotic disease risks.

June 25 Protests: Kenyan police fired tear gas and sealed off parts of Nairobi CBD as the country marked the second anniversary of the 2024 Gen Z unrest, with shops shut and hundreds arrested; rights groups say roadblocks, barricades and arrests violated constitutional freedoms and a High Court order, while police leadership defended the crackdown as “intelligence-led” policing. Media Freedom Clash: President Ruto escalated his war of words with The Standard Group over alleged “extortionist propaganda” and unpaid salaries, drawing fresh condemnation from political figures and rights advocates. Sports & Integrity: Former half-marathon world-record holder Kibiwott Kandie received a seven-year ban for doping control violations, including refusing a test. Arts & Entertainment Tech: CANAL+ and Samsung expanded DStv Stream by pre-installing the app on Samsung Smart TVs across multiple African markets including Kenya. Culture & Craft: A feature spotlights sisal weaving and sisal coasters as a sustainable, locally made decor trend. Film Spotlight: A New York filmmaker behind debut feature “Souvenir” traces its story to a used bookstore find.

Security & Protests: Deputy IG Gilbert Masengeli says Nairobi remains calm as police seal key roads and mount roadblocks ahead of Gen Z memorial protests marking two years since the June 25, 2024 demonstrations. Digital Parenting: UNESCO launches a global family guide to help parents and caregivers teach children safe, critical navigation of the digital world. Media & Politics: President Ruto escalates his feud with Standard Media Group, accusing it of extortionist propaganda and unpaid labour, while legal and rights voices push back on attacks against media independence. Gen Z Anniversary Lens: Multiple reports revisit what the June 25 protests changed—and what still hasn’t—while organisers urge peaceful commemorations led by victims’ families and survivors. Arts & Culture: Netflix’s The Polygamist sparks a Kenyan official’s push for a ban, as debate swirls online. Local Craft: A lifestyle feature spotlights sisal weaving and how handmade coasters support Kenyan artisans and cut plastic waste. Sports: Kenya names a 56-member rafting squad for the Rafting World Cup Series in Sagana.

Media Accountability: The Standard Media Group hit back after President William Ruto attacked it on X, defending “bold, responsible and accountable journalism.” Rights & Inclusion: MPs passed the Kenya Sign Language Bill, pushing sign-language access into schools, courts, media and telecoms. Protest Safety: ODM’s Oburu Oginga urged police to protect peaceful demonstrators for the June 25 commemoration, as Nairobi police declared the planned protests illegal for lack of notification. Youth & Education: Kenya set to charge students over the Utumishi Girls’ School dorm fire that killed 16 pupils, with prosecutors citing CCTV and interviews. Arts & Culture: A new documentary, “Second Nature,” explores gender and sexual diversity in nature, narrated by Elliot Page. Aviation & Growth: Kenya signed a $1.2bn deal to expand JKIA with China Road and Bridge, targeting 22 million passengers annually. Tech & Business: Little Cab integrated with KRA’s eTIMS for automatic compliant invoicing.

Basadi in Music Awards 2026: Amapiano star Zee Nxumalo leads nominations with seven nods, including Artist of the Year, Amapiano Artist of the Year, Song of the Year and Music Video of the Year, with the fifth edition set for Johannesburg on 7–8 August. Sports & culture: Congo DR’s “living statue” superfan Michel Nkuka Mboladinga finally made his World Cup debut after missing the opener due to Ebola quarantine rules, standing motionless as Lumumba Vea in Congo’s match against Colombia. Kenya media spotlight: President William Ruto hits back at Standard Media Group, calling its coverage “extortionist propaganda” and urging it to “try eight days a week.” Football admin relief: FKF gets a major reprieve as PPRA drops its CHAN insurance probe, saying the matter fell under CAF guidelines and not Kenyan public procurement. Theatre & society: A rerun of Gathoni Kimuyu’s Free Me puts Kenya’s gender-based violence crisis under the spotlight, echoing calls to declare GBV a national emergency. Digital learning: Kenya’s DigiTrucks—solar-powered mobile computer labs—roll into Tanzania to boost ICT skills for students.

Police & Public Order: Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen sparked uproar after explaining why officers sometimes don’t intervene when goons rob Kenyans, arguing restraint can prevent escalation. Ebola & Courts: Health CS Aden Duale halted a US-backed Ebola quarantine centre after the High Court found him in contempt, then accepted his apology and issued a stern compliance warning. Uganda Politics: Muhoozi Kainerugaba says he personally deported Martha Karua, escalating tensions around detention-linked opposition figures. Street Drama (Mlolongo): A viral clip shows a woman confronting her Gen-Z lover in public over alleged cheating while she funds his lifestyle. Creative Economy & Royalties: KECOBO moves artists onto eCitizen for digital royalty collection, aiming to remit 70% to creators. Gaming & Youth Culture: MaliWin’s month-long carnival campaign awarded prizes worth Sh10m, highlighting Kenya’s fast-growing online gaming scene. Health Policy & Media: A Nairobi session urges journalists to investigate how multinationals influence health tax rules. Fashion & Growth: A feature argues Africa’s fashion can be an economic engine when connected to capital and markets.

Ebola & Accountability: Kenya’s health minister Aden Duale was found in contempt of court over continued work on a US-backed Ebola quarantine facility at Laikipia Air Base, with the judge ordering him to appear for mitigation and sentencing. Tech, Media & Streaming: MultiChoice’s DStv Stream app will be pre-installed on new Samsung Smart TVs across 18 African countries (including Kenya), expanding easy access to World Cup 2026 and major sports. Security & Surveillance: Interior CS Kipchumba Murkomen says police will link CCTV systems to the National ID database to speed up suspect identification, while also directing minimal force ahead of the June 25 protests and warning against inflammatory media. Arts & Entertainment: Conscious-pop artist Baby J (Jenny Carrington) makes her live debut with “Love Revolution” at EarthVibes, while Kenya’s Vurugu 2 celebrity boxing fallout feeds into Friday Fight Night’s next big card. Sports & Culture: Olympic champion Beatrice Chebet announces the birth of her first child, a baby boy. Governance Watch: Transparency International Kenya flags high corruption risks in major infrastructure, with the SGR scoring 4.49/5. Regional Spotlight: CECAFA Kagame Cup clubs are confirmed for Kigali (July 24–Aug 7), including Gor Mahia and other East African sides.