5 Things You Must Know This Morning — Friday, August 28, 2026 - Livenow Breaking news, Kenyan News, World News. Videos

Good morning. Here are five stories to have on your radar this morning, Friday, 28th August 2026.

1. Traders plan protests today over new KRA customs benchmark

Small-scale traders in Nairobi's Kamukunji, Gikomba and Nyamakima are planning demonstrations and a business shutdown today over KRA's decision to raise the customs minimum benchmark for consolidated 40-foot cargo from Sh2.5 million to Sh3.2 million. The increase took effect on August 20.

For workers: there is no verified nationwide order to stay home. Eastleigh's business community has specifically told traders to keep businesses open and avoid the protests. If your commute passes through protest hotspots, check with your employer and expect possible disruption.

2. 10,000 new police officers graduate as Kenya faces security questions

President William Ruto is expected at Kiganjo today for the graduation of about 10,000 police recruits and the unveiling of a new police uniform. The ceremony comes amid growing concerns over political violence and organised goonism ahead of the 2027 election.

The question now is whether the expanded force will translate into safer streets and better policing.

3. Kenya Airways' losses deepen as airline searches for investors

Kenya Airways reported a Sh15.92 billion pre-tax loss for the first half of 2026, worse than the Sh12.17 billion loss recorded in the same period last year. The airline is now looking for new investors as it battles high costs and operational challenges.

For taxpayers and travellers, the big question is whether a new investment deal can finally put KQ on a sustainable path.

4. Strait of Hormuz talks could affect oil and prices worldwide

Diplomatic efforts are intensifying to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route carrying roughly one-fifth of the world's oil. Shipping traffic remains far below normal following the Iran conflict, although oil prices are currently heading for a weekly decline.

Why Kenyans should care: any renewed disruption could push up global fuel and transport costs, with consequences for food and household prices.

5. Global markets await the US Fed chief's Jackson Hole speech

Markets are cautious this morning as investors await US Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh's speech at the Jackson Hole symposium. Investors are looking for clues on interest rates while technology stocks remain supported by strong AI demand after Nvidia's latest results.

The Fed's direction matters far beyond Wall Street: US rates influence the dollar, global borrowing costs and the flow of money into emerging markets such as Kenya.

That's your morning briefing. Five stories, one minute, and you're caught up.