Rael Ombuor

Kenya Fighting to End Female Genital Mutilation by 2023

Despite Kenya's banning of female genital mutilation in 2011, the tradition has continued in some ethnic communities. President Uhuru Kenyatta vowed to end FGM before 2023, seven years ahead of a U.N. deadline to stop the practice globally. Activists, however, say more needs to be done as millions of girls are still at risk of undergoing the cut. Rael Ombuor reports from Narok, Kenya.

Kenyan Farmers Hit by Worst Locust Swarms in 70 Years

East Africa is experiencing the worst desert locust invasion in 25 years, according to the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization, and the worst in Kenya for 70 years. Desert locusts have ravaged at least 11 of Kenya’s 47 counties, leaving a trail of destruction on farmland. Experts say if the locust invasion is not checked, it could pose a serious threat to food security and livelihoods in the region. Rael Ombuor reports from Kitui County, Kenya.

Kenya Hopes HPV Vaccinations Reduce Cervical Cancer Rate

East Africa has the highest rates of cervical cancer in the world, according to the World Health Organization. In October, Kenya launched a mass vaccination of girls against the human papillomavirus (HPV),which can lead to cervical cancer. For those who acquired HPV, the vaccine is being welcomed in hopes of protecting their children against cervical cancer. Rael Ombuor reports from Nairobi.

Inescapable Effects of Global Warming Jeopardize Livelihoods in Africa

Martial Art Steers Many Away From Crime in Nairobi Neighborhood

In Kayole, a slum in Kenya's capital, Nairobi, young boys and girls get together at least twice a week to work on their martial arts skills. Some previously were involved in criminal activities but have found a new pastime -- Muay Thai, a combat sport that originated in Thailand. The sport has provided many with a new lease on life and a path away from crime. Rael Ombuor reports.

Some Kenyan Farmers Growing Herbal Stimulant Instead of Food Crops

More small scale farmers in central Kenya have switched from growing food crops to planting and harvesting an herbal stimulant known locally as "Muguka" - a variety of the drug, Khat. The farmers say they now make almost three times as much from growing the drug instead of food crops, but the local county government wants farmers to create a balance between producing "Muguka" and food. Rael Ombuor has more from Embu, Kenya.

Kenyan Writer, Gay Rights Activist Binyavanga Remembered

Binyavanga, who was honored at a Nairobi ceremony by family and friends, died last week in Kenya after a short illness; he was 48

Kenya Upholds Ban on Same-Sex Relations

The ruling disappointed several gay rights groups that petitioned the court while others were pleased

Gay Refugees in Kenya Work, Wait for Change

For decades, Kenya has hosted refugees fleeing conflict, drought and persecution in East Africa, including sexual minorities. Most gay refugees hope to resettle outside Africa to Western countries where gay rights are better protected. But while they wait, a process that can take years, one group of gay refugees is helping inform and educate others about their situation. Rael Ombuor reports from Kiserian, Kenya.

Kenya's High Court to Rule Friday on Legality of Gay Sex

If petitioners win, Kenya would be the first country in East Africa to decriminalize homosexuality

Fate of Dadaab Refugee Camp in Limbo as Kenya Presses for Closure

Generations of refugees and asylum seekers know no other home but Dadaab and have nowhere else to go

Kenya Drops in Press Freedom Index, But Remains Haven for Journalists

The country’s press might not be ranked completely free, but for journalists from the region it provides a relatively safe base for their work

Al-Shabab Suspected in Abduction of 2 Cuban Doctors in Kenya

Kenyan police say the pair were kidnapped Friday morning and taken into Somali territory

Kenya's Garissa University Marks 4 Years Since Terror Attack

Al-Shabab militant attack in 2015 claimed 148 lives, most of them students

Kenyan Family Mourns Man Killed in Ethiopian Airlines Crash

Thirty-four-year-old Abdulahi Ibrahim was one of 32 Kenyans who perished on the Nairobi-bound flight

Kenyan Family Mourns Loved One Killed in Ethiopian Airlines Crash

Ethiopian families are continuing to mourn their loved ones killed Sunday in the crash of Ethiopian Airlines flight 302. Thirty-four-year-old Abdulahi Ibrahim was one of the 32 Kenyans who perished in the Nairobi-bound flight. His family, like the families of the other 156 people killed, are still coming to terms with the death of their loved one. Rael Ombuor reports.

Kenya's Lone Ice Hockey Team

The Ice Lions have never had another team to play

Kenya’s Only Ice Hockey Team Inspires New Generation of Players

The first and only ice hockey team in Kenya continues to defy the odds by playing and practicing the sport in the only solar ice rink in Eastern and Central Africa. This pioneer team is now inspiring a new generation of ice hockey players who hope to expand the sport in Kenya. Rael Ombuor reports from Nairobi.

Kenyan Women Protest Violence

The demonstrators called on the government to develop an action plan to prevent abuse against women

Aviation Workers Strike, Stall Operations in Kenya's Main Airport

Workers union said it is striking because of corruption, salary discrepancies, and objections to a proposed air traffic merger