Kenya’s Blankets & Wine festival announced major improvements ahead of its December edition after facing criticism over operational challenges in September. During its 17th anniversary event in Nairobi, organizers said an independent architectural team is redesigning venue flow to improve comfort, accessibility, and safety. They also confirmed ongoing refunds for duplicate payments and said internal audits have strengthened operations. The team emphasized rebuilding trust as excitement grows for the “Kenyan Summer 2025” lineup reveal.

Three youth-led teams from the Siaya Hackathon were recognized at the Kenya Software & AI Summit in Eldoret for developing digital solutions supporting agriculture, MSMEs, and job access. The winning AGRILINK BONDO platform connects farmers to markets and financial services. The second-place team created Dhibiti Stock for inventory and analytics, while Kazi-hub, in third place, links informal workers to local opportunities. Officials said the projects reflect nationwide efforts to expand digital skills and innovation.

Google introduced its Gemini Pro Plan in Kenya to provide university and college students with advanced AI tools for learning and research. The company said eligible learners will receive 12 months of free access to strengthen digital skills, creativity, and problem-solving. ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo said the rollout aligns with Kenya’s AI Strategy 2025–2030. The program, offered in partnership with government agencies, aims to develop an AI-ready workforce through academic integration and innovation.

Nairobi City Water and Sewerage Company completed a full digital overhaul of its customer service and infrastructure monitoring systems. All applications and billing now run through online platforms supported by automated meter-reading technology. The utility also deployed a GIS-based asset management system that tracks water and sewer networks in real time, enabling rapid detection of leaks and bursts. NCWSC said the transformation aims to enhance accuracy, reduce losses, and position Nairobi as a smart-utility city.

Kenyan arts, fashion, and music featured prominently during the British High Commission’s celebration of King Charles III’s birthday in Nairobi. More than 1,000 guests attended the event, held under the UK/Kenya Season 2025 cultural program, which highlights creativity and cultural exchange between the two countries. Designers and musicians showcased local talent as officials noted the role of culture in strengthening bilateral ties. The celebration also reflected growing collaboration across education, technology, climate, and innovation.

Kenyan model Magdalene Takangiro, who recently walked at Paris Fashion Week, will lead the runway at the Africa’s Next Super Model finale on Nov. 22 in Nairobi. Organizers said the event follows talent scouting in Samburu. Takangiro, a Clinical Medicine student at Kabarak University, debuted internationally after joining Isis Models Africa. She credited her progress to mentorship and said the platform continues to uplift emerging African talent as anticipation builds for the competition.

The Central Bank of Kenya opened a bond sale seeking KSh40 billion to support the national budget. The offer includes reopened 15-year and 25-year Treasury bonds with annual coupon rates of 12.34% and 14.19%, taxed at 10%. Investors must submit bids by Nov. 19 and complete payments by Nov. 24. Treasury data shows Kenya’s public debt increased by roughly KSh250 billion in three months as domestic borrowing rose and external debt fell.

Emirates will launch a third daily Dubai–Nairobi flight starting Mar. 1, 2026, raising weekly frequencies to 21 as the airline marks 30 years in Kenya. The new Boeing 777 rotation adds early morning connectivity to Europe and the United States and aligns with Kenya Airways’ regional network under their interline agreement. Emirates said the extra service will support tourism growth and increase cargo capacity by about 280 tonnes weekly for Kenya’s export sector.