Nairobi will become a regional hub for clean-energy innovation during Intersolar Africa on February 3–4, 2026, at the Sarit Expo Centre. The event has grown into a full international exhibition and conference, showcasing advances in solar photovoltaics, battery storage, and smart energy systems. It will bring global experts together with East Africa’s fast-growing energy sector. The event will support the deployment of scalable technologies to meet rising power demand.

Kenya has gained global recognition in artificial intelligence governance following the inclusion of Philip Thigo in the Apolitical Government AI 100–2026. The list highlights public sector leaders shaping responsible AI adoption worldwide. Thigo has played a key role in multilateral processes, including UN-led initiatives on environmental sustainability of AI and digital governance. His recognition places Kenya among a select group influencing global AI policy and reinforces the country’s growing role in international technology governance.

The Communications Authority of Kenya is conducting a national study on online safety trends with the University of Nairobi, revealing growing concern among internet users about digital risks. The survey examines online behaviour, device use, and parental involvement, focusing on cyber scams, AI-driven misinformation, and cyberbullying. Speaking at the Data Privacy Conference 2026, CA Director-General David Mugonyi said the findings will inform evidence-based policy, stronger cybersecurity frameworks, and digital citizenship initiatives.

Kenya is preserving the cultural legacy of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga by archiving tributes that honor his contributions to democracy and public life. Governments, global institutions, and individuals worldwide have sent condolence messages, which officials compiled into bound volumes. Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs Korir Sing’Oei said authorities will house the collections at the Kenya National Archives, the Kenya National Library Service, and the Foreign Affairs Library for historical preservation.

Kenya Utalii College has launched a Barista Training Centre to equip youth with professional coffee and hospitality skills. Supported by the Republic of Türkiye through Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency and the Ushiriki Wema Foundation, the centre offers hands-on training in roasting, espresso, and cold beverages. The initiative aims to boost employment, strengthen Kenya’s coffee culture, and align training with international standards.

Kenya’s Court of Appeal lifted the ban on Rafiki, allowing public screenings eight years after its release. Wanuri Kahiu directed the coming-of-age love story. In 2018, the Kenya Film Classification Board banned the film, saying it promoted homosexuality. The ruling is the first time a Kenyan film previously prohibited for queer content has cleared local audiences. Observers say it could signal a shift in cultural policy and spark renewed debates over censorship.

Cross-listed power utility Umeme issued a profit warning and expects a loss for the year ending December 2025, following the end of its electricity distribution operations in Uganda. The company said operating revenue stopped after its 20-year concession expired on March 31, 2025, cutting off income from the second quarter. Umeme is pursuing compensation claims against the Government of Uganda under privatization agreements. The outcome could significantly affect its financial position.

Kenya is accelerating export market diversification as uncertainty persists over the extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act. While the US House of Representatives voted to extend AGOA to 2028, the US Senate is considering a shorter extension to December 2026, leaving exporters in limbo. The textile and apparel sector—employing more than 80,000 people directly—has been hardest hit. Kenya is targeting the European Union, China, and India to reduce reliance on the US market.

Kenya’s annual inflation rate slowed to 4.4% in January 2026 from 4.5% in December, according to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics. The moderation was driven by lower transport costs, declining fuel prices, and easing food prices for key items. Reduced internet and communication fees also contributed. Inflation remains within the Central Bank of Kenya’s target range of 2.5–7.5%, signalling continued macroeconomic stability.