In 2013, the government introduced the leasing program for official government transport, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at providing efficient and cost-effective transport solutions for various government departments. Now in its 7th phase, the program has not only transformed the government’s transport operations but has also
As the world gathers for the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP 28) in Dubai, the urgency of addressing climate change takes centre stage. In a compelling speech leading up to the conference, President William Ruto underscored the critical role of Africa in the global
In the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI), it is crucial to scrutinise its impact on societies, especially those in the Global South. While AI systems are often perceived as neutral and efficient decision-makers, they are not immune to the biases ingrained in the data
In the advent of the new adage that ‘data is the new gold’, entities are increasingly relying on data to drive their business decisions and as the basis for profit optimization. However, the collection, handling and storage of data must align with international standards on
On Tuesday, October 17, a group of 15 men were charged at Kahawa Law Court in Nairobi, a few meters from Kamiti Prison. Apart from the last two and the first one on the charge sheet, the men were at various ranks in the police
For economists, the private sector stands as a critical driver of economic growth. However, in Kenya, it has been stifled by policies hindering its potential. It is indeed disheartening that with the public sector already overburdened and overstretched, the requisite balance necessary to manage public
The case of Brian Mwenda has ignited a critical discussion on the practicality of implementing the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy in Kenya, particularly within tightly regulated fields like law. This case underlines the challenge of incorporating non-traditional learning into formal frameworks, showcasing the
KENYA CBK, investor standoff drives interest rates to 16-year high A standoff between investors and the Kenyan government over interest rates escalated this week after the sale of the October Treasury bond raised less than 20 percent of the Sh35 billion on offer.
KENYA Kenya Airways plane from Nairobi to London diverted from Heathrow to Stansted Airport A Kenya Airways flight from Nairobi to London that was earlier intercepted and diverted by the UK military was cleared of any security threat, ending hours of pain for
BUNGOMA The Governor has appointed various persons to be members of the recruitment panel for the selection of a nominee for appointment as the County Secretary and Head of Public Service. TURKANA The Governor has appointed Dr. Rev. Fr. Joseph Ekiru Ekomwa as the Chairperson
Senate Bills, 2023 The Insolvency (Amendment) Bill, 2023 The Parliamentary Powers and Privileges (Amendment) Bill, 2023 The Public Transport (Motorcycle Regulation) Bill, 2023 The County Public Finance Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2023 The Public Finance Management (Amendment) Bill, 2023 The Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood) Bill,
In an era where digital interconnectedness defines our world, the importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated. October, designated as Cybersecurity Awareness Month, serves as a timely reminder for individuals, businesses, and governments to unite in the face of escalating cyber threats. Kenya’s recent encounter with
Kenya is currently grappling with a challenging economic landscape characterised by a high cost of living, and the recent introduction of a housing levy has added to the financial burdens of employers and employees. Amid these economic challenges, the Unemployment Insurance Authority Bill, sponsored by
In the wake of economic challenges and declining domestic revenues, the National Treasury has unveiled an ambitious Medium-Term Revenue Strategy (MTRS) that promises to reshape the country’s tax landscape. The MTRS not only seeks to enhance revenue administration efficiency but also aims to foster economic
In Kenya, the Digital Health Bill for 2023 has emerged as a crucial stride in safeguarding sensitive personal information and ensuring the responsible handling of health data. Yet, just like with any set of rules, it’s vital to carefully examine its contents in relation to
KENYA State to legalise phone, email tapping in dirty cash fight Telephone calls and emails of Kenyans suspected to be dealing in money laundering and terrorism financing will be tapped if lawmakers approve changes to a Bill seeking to escalate the fight against
KENYA Ruto, TikTok CEO Chew agree to moderate content in Kenya TikTok has agreed to moderate content on its App in Kenya, the country’s presidency said Thursday, days after parliament received a petition to ban the popular video-sharing platform. “Short-form video hosting service TikTok will
In an era characterised by globalisation and technological progress, Africa is swiftly emerging as a dynamic player in the outsourcing landscape, with Kenya leading the charge. As countries on the continent establish their positions on the global outsourcing map, the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, content moderation has emerged as a critical defence against harmful and inappropriate online content. As the internet becomes an integral part of our lives, the need to ensure a safe and informative online environment becomes paramount. The digital age
The tea industry in Kenya has long been dominated by big multinational corporations, and among them, James Finlay Kenya Ltd (JFK) stands out as a prominent player. However, recent times have brought a wave of challenges that have forced JFK to reevaluate its approach. These
The proposal to remove the 30% minimum local shareholding requirement for foreign entities operating in Kenya’s ICT sector marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to encourage foreign direct investment and drive growth and innovation in the digital economy. This decision comes after acknowledging
Meta’s recent launch of the Threads app has captured substantial attention, stemming not only from its rapid user adoption but also from the growing concerns over potential data privacy and competition issues it may raise. Threads gained over 100 million users within a week of
National Assembly The National Assembly is on a short recess and is expected to resume House business on 25th July, 2023 at 2:30 p.m. Senate The Senate is on a short recess.
KENYA Desperate for loans, Kenya offers highest returns in 7 years The Kenyan government is increasingly borrowing more expensive loans from the domestic market in a trend that has set up households and businesses for a new season of costly loans. The interest rate on
KENYA Aftermath: The cost of the Raila-led nationwide anti-Ruto demos As the dust settles down from a chaotic day of countrywide protests on Wednesday, businesses are now counting the cost of the demonstrations that disrupted their daily activities and caused wanton looting and destruction of
County Description Kajiado The County Secretary, Kajiado County, has appointed a number of people to be members of the Board of Directors for Oloolaiser Water and Sewerage Company, with effect from 7th May 2021. The County Secretary, Kajiado County, has appointed a number of people
National Assembly Bills, 2023 The Insurance (Amendment) Bill, 2023 The Cancer Prevention and Control (Amendment) Bill, 2023 Legislative Supplements, 2023 The Public Order (Turkana, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, West Pokot, Samburu and Laikipia Counties) Curfew Extension Order No. 5 of 2023 The Public Order Declaration of
Tuesday, 4th July 2023 The National Assembly Legislation Bills at First Reading The Economic and Social Rights Bill (Senate Bill No. 7 of 2022) Bills at Second Reading The National Rating Bill (National Assembly Bill No. 55 of 2022)
Twelve countries across different regions in Africa are set to receive 18 million doses of the first-ever malaria vaccine over the next two years. The rollout is a critical step forward in the fight against one of the leading causes of death on the continent.
Kenya’s ICT sector has experienced remarkable growth over the past few decades. This has positioned the country as a leading technology hub in East Africa. With the vision of becoming a top off-shoring destination in Africa, the Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and IT-Enabled Services (ITES)
The recent ruling by the Employment and Labour Relations Court regarding the employment status of content moderators has ignited significant debate and scrutiny. While the ruling determined that Meta (formerly named Facebook) should be classified as the employer of these moderators, it is crucial to
Background The groundbreaking ruling delivered by the Supreme Court of Kenya in the case of Dina Management Limited v. County Government of Mombasa & 5 others (Petition No. 8 (E010) of 2021) carries substantial implications for banks that provide secured financing based on property titles.
Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) have become a hot topic in global finance. These digital currencies issued and regulated by central banks are sparking intense discussions and research. CBDCs have the potential to revolutionize monetary systems, reshape transactions, and improve financial inclusion, security, and efficiency
KENYA CBK clears 33 banks for risk-based loans The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has given the nod to 33 out of 39 commercial banks to implement lending to customers based on their risk profile. Riskier borrowers are charged higher interest rates compared to those
KENYA Madaraka Day: Ruto launches Hustler Group Loan President William Ruto on Thursday launched the Hustler Group Loan, the second product of the Hustler Fund, which he said is aimed at enabling groups of at least 10 to access funds. The groups will be required
WHO’s 76th health assembly closed Tuesday, May 30, having addressed a vast array of issues, including behavioural sciences; best buys for non-communicable diseases; diagnostics; disabilities; drowning prevention; emergency, critical and operative care; food micronutrients; indigenous health; infection prevention and control; maternal and child health; medical
KENYA Economists cut Kenya’s growth outlook Global economists have marginally downgraded Kenya’s growth outlook for 2023, citing below-average rainfall, and a weakening shilling amid lingering threats of return of anti-government protests. The panellists polled from 14 world-leading banks, consultancies and think tanks projected expansion in
KENYA Storm over State plan to tax insurance payouts Insurance customers will start parting with 16 percent tax on the money paid to them by insurers as compensation for their losses, if the proposal whose interpretation has split tax experts and insurance firms, is adopted. The
Since gaining independence in 1963, Kenya has made significant progress in developing its tax system. The government introduced various laws to broaden the revenue base, including legislation on income tax, sales tax (later replaced by value-added tax), excise duty, and customs duty. However, the
As technology assumes an increasingly significant role in our personal lives, ensuring our security in cyberspace becomes crucial: as such we must safeguard ourselves against cyber attacks. Cyberattacks refer to malicious attempts by individuals or groups to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer
KENYA M-Pesa deepens share in Safaricom revenue as voice stutters The share of M-Pesa in Safaricom mobile service revenue has deepened to 41.5 percent as earnings from voice and text messaging came under pressure from applications such as WhatsApp. Safaricom’s mobile service revenue in the
KENYA Rich Kenyans get helicopter tax cuts in President Ruto budget plan Wealthy Kenyans and politicians will import helicopters and planes at cheaper prices after President William Ruto’s administration proposed to scrap three taxes on aircraft and parts at a time the Treasury plans to
The Finance Bill 2023 is the first fiscal legislative proposal under the Kenya Kwanza administration, aimed at implementing the Bottom Up Transformation Agenda. The Kenyan economy is expected to maintain a 6.1% growth rate over the medium term, with leading indicators showing strong performance in
Alcohol abuse is a prevalent issue in Kenya, and the government has implemented various measures to tackle it. These measures comprise policies, programmes, and regulations to reduce alcohol abuse, enhance treatment and rehabilitation, and promote responsible drinking habits. This article analyses the government’s efforts to
COUNTY ROUND UP MOMBASA The Governor has appointed various persons to be County Executive Committee Members (CECM) of Mombasa County. VIHIGA The Governor has appointed various persons to a Taskforce to inquire into the operations of Amatsi Water Services Company Limited (a county government entity),
Bills, 2023 The County Governments (Revenue Raising Process) Bill, 2023 JUDICIARY Appointments The Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court of Kenya has appointed: ○ Carolyne Njagi as the National Community Service Orders Co-ordinator, for a term of
The successful deployment of the Taifa-1 satellite into orbit will signify Kenya’s most significant stride into the realms of space exploration and utilization. It will be a testament to Kenya’s growing capabilities in the space industry and its commitment to leveraging space-based technologies for the
WHO has updated its tracking system and working definitions for variants of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, to better correspond to the current global variant landscape, to independently evaluate Omicron sublineages in circulation, and classify new variants more clearly when required. SARS-CoV-2 continues to
Class action suits are a legal redress mechanism that enables a group of individuals with a similar claim to sue a defendant as a collective. In Kenya, class action suits have been on the rise in recent years, with a growing number of litigants seeking
The rise of TikTok, a popular video-sharing app, has been met with controversy over data security concerns and information autocracy risk. Several governments around the world, including the United States, the EU, Canada, and others, have imposed partial or total bans on TikTok due to
Privacy by design is a framework for personal data protection that aims to embed privacy considerations into the design and development of systems, products, and services. The approach advocates for the integration of personal data protection measures into the entire lifecycle of a product or
As the world marks Data Privacy Day on 28th January 2023, Kenya has been busy this week with a series of activities organized by the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) to commemorate the day. The week-long events will culminate in a two-day Data
Zuku, an internet service provider owned by Wananchi Group, has recently faced sharp public criticism. The company received widespread backlash online from its customers over poor internet services. Zuku customers experienced internet outage, downtime, and slow speeds for an extended period. To further worsen the
The year 2022 saw the introduction of several legislative and regulatory updates. Similarly, Kenya launched some notable policies and strategies whose implementation will impact both the private and public sectors. As 2022 draws to a close, we look back at some of the key legislative
Kenya will be marking its 59th Independence Day on Monday, December 12, 2022. This year’s Jamhuri Day Celebrations, dubbed “Innovation Jamhuri Day,” will focus on technology and innovation. A departure from prior years’ celebrations, this year’s Jamhuri is poised to look back at Kenya’s digital
There are unique opportunities to use ICT for economic growth, productivity increase, and better service delivery. According to the International Cooperation Development 2019 report on Guidelines and Roadmap for full deployment of e-governance systems in Africa, there are two critical elements of e-governance: digital elements
What is country-by-country reporting? Multinational Enterprise Groups (MNEs) that are tax resident in Kenya with gross revenues of KSh 95 billion or more are required to submit an annual return of income for the year 2022 and subsequent years. The return should detail the group’s
In the financial year ended June 2022, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) recorded a historic high of KSh2.031 trillion against a revenue target of KSh1.882 trillion, representing a 21.7 per cent growth and the highest ever in its history. Despite this tremendous performance, the government
Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza has recently been in the spotlight, and not for the right reasons. A storm started brewing following some of her county staff appointments. Beyond the hostility she has been facing from members of the County Assembly, the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission
The case of Flutterwave recently rocked the Kenyan fintech space. The Asset Recovery Agency levelled claims of fraud and money laundering against Flutterwave. In court documents, the Agency asserted that Flutterwave bank accounts received billions in a suspected scheme of money laundering and the same
IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report 2022 offers IT, risk management and security leaders a lens into factors that can increase or help mitigate the rising cost of data breaches. It is a global report comprising data from 17 countries and regions, and 17
There has been much debate about the Shamba System over the past few days following remarks made by Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua regarding reintroducing the controversial system. What is a Shamba System? The word shamba in Kiswahili means a farm. As the name suggests, under
News Release by the World Health Organisation Today, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of WHO, launched a new report calling on global leaders to take urgent action on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), responsible for 17 million premature deaths every year. To accelerate action Dr Tedros renewed
What is Adjustment for Inflation? The Excise Duty Act and Miscellaneous Fees and Levies Act provides for the Commissioner-General of the Kenya Revenue Authority, by Gazette Notice, to adjust the specific rate of excise duty every two years to take into account inflation. Recently, the
During President Ruto’s inauguration speech on Tuesday, September 13, 2022, he noted that his campaign team had received complaints from traders about the onerous burden involved in cash transactions exceeding KSh 1 million. He further asserted that many of them have reverted to storing money
Following the inauguration of Dr William Samoei Ruto on Tuesday, September 13, 2022, as President, he is now widely expected to release an executive order outlining the organisation of his government. The executive order to be released by President Ruto will supersede any other Executive
KENYA ‘Shame on Judiciary’, says Raila in first speech since Supreme Court verdict Azimio La Umoja One Kenya leader Raila Odinga has spoken publicly for the first time Thursday since the Supreme Court upheld the presidential election results, by lashing out at the verdict as
The Kenya Kwanza manifesto proposes to set up a quasi-judicial commission of inquiry into state capture within 30 days of the new administration. The commission would aim to establish the extent of cronyism and state capture in Kenya and make recommendations. Transparency International has defined
Outcome 1 – Presidential election upheld If the Supreme Court issues a ruling that declares the presidential election as valid, the President-elect will be sworn in on the first Tuesday, 7 days from when the court issues its ruling – September 13, 2022. Outcome 2
Following the declaration of Deputy President William Ruto as the President-elect by the IEBC chairman, a number of elected Members of Parliament allied to the Azimio la Umoja coalition have shifted camp to the Kenya Kwanza coalition. The United Democratic Movement (UDM) party, a constituent
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) recently released the 2021 Financial Stability Report which discusses developments and risks in Kenya’s economy and financial sector in the post-Covid–19 pandemic recovery phase, and details how the financial sector has remained resilient. The report outlines some of the
KENYA Swearing-in date of president-elect to be public holiday, Kinyua says The date of the swearing in of the president-elect will be declared a public holiday, Kinyua clarified, adding that the mandate of the committee will be triggered once the electoral commission formally announces a
The announcement by Kenya Power to start building charging ports for electric vehicles has renewed the conversation on e-mobility in Kenya. Beginning next month, Kenya Power is set to commence the construction of electric charging systems for homes, businesses, and the public across the country.
KENYA Uhuru plotting to disrupt elections, William Ruto now says Deputy President William Ruto Thursday launched a scathing attack on President Uhuru Kenyatta, accusing his boss of planning to disrupt the General Election set for Tuesday. The Kenya Kwanza Alliance presidential candidate claimed the president
On Wednesday, July 27, 2022, the Central Bank of Kenya launched the Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing National Risk Assessment Report (NRA). The report identifies and assesses Kenya’s Money Laundering (ML) and Terrorism Financing (TF) risks at a national and sectoral level. The overall ML
The Supreme Court dealt a final blow to Mike Sonko’s stab at the Mombasa gubernatorial race when it dismissed his appeal concerning his impeachment from the office of the Governor of Nairobi City County. In the shortened version of its decision, the Supreme Court noted
KENYA Venezuelan found with IEBC stickers detained at airport Preparations for the upcoming elections were Thursday thrown into confusion after customs officials at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) detained suspicious election material from a foreigner who had just arrived in the country. Venezuelan Comarco
The Government Printer has come under increased scrutiny this week after the Speaker of the National Assembly called off a special sitting following the failure to gazette the special sitting. Speaker Justin Muturi had called for a special sitting of the National Assembly on Wednesday,
The only feasible way to get money to pay for government expenditure on the products and services that most of us need is through taxes. However, establishing an effective and fair tax system is far from easy, especially for developing nations that seek to integrate
KENYA Boycott election? Never, we’re not cowards, vows Azimio flagbearer Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition presidential candidate Raila Odinga has declared that his team will not boycott the August 9 General Election even as he exuded confidence that they would win by more than
KENYA Why Ruto changed tune on his plan to abolish CBC Deputy President William Ruto has made a major turnabout on an earlier pledge to abolish the competency-based curriculum (CBC). Dr Ruto has instead promised a hybrid system of education if his Kenya Kwanza Alliance
Election timelines and activities Activity Timeline Official campaign period. 29th May, 2022 – 6th August, 2022 Political parties participating in the General Election to submit their Party List to IEBC. 25th June, 2022 Political parties and candidates to appoint and submit to the IEBC the
The Public Investments Committee of the National Assembly has called upon the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) to investigate the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Limited (KETRACO) management over delays in the construction of a transmission line to connect the Lake Turkana Wind Power plant to
The Employment and Labour Relations Court has recently quashed the appointment of board members of certain state corporations, citing a lack of transparency and competitiveness in the recruitment process. The latest casualties include the Kenya Medical Supplies Agency (KEMSA) and the Kenya Bureau of Standards
KENYA Inside the deal that saw Kalonzo rejoin Azimio coalition Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka has secured Cabinet slots and a commitment of law change to create the post of Prime Minister, which he will hold, should Azimio presidential candidate Raila Odinga form the next government.
National Assembly Bills, 2022 The Wildlife Conservation and Management (Amendment) Bill, 2022. The Wildlife Conservation and Management (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill, 2022. The Basic Education (Amendment) Bill, 2022. The Unemployment Insurance Authority Bill, 2022. Legislative Supplements, 2022 The Microfinance Act—Exemption. The Legal Aid (General) Regulations,
Election timelines and activities Activity Timeline Official campaign period. 29th May, 2022 – 6th August, 2022 Nomination of political party candidates and independent candidates for the County Woman Member to the National Assembly elections. 1st June, 2022 to 3rd June, 2022. Nomination of political party
HOMA BAY The County Executive Committee member for Health Services has gazetted notice of the appointment of various persons to serve as members of Hospital Management Boards, for a period of three (3) years, effective 1st March, 2022. KILIFI The County Executive Committee member for
KENYA In the Iron Lady of Kenyan politics, a statement of belief Raila Odinga’s running mate Martha Karua has excited sections of the population, especially the millions of Kenyan women and young girls who see her as the embodiment of a promise come true. Whether
KENYA KCB first quarter profit jumps to Sh9.9 billion KCB Group net earnings grew by more than half in the first quarter ended March, helped by higher interest and non-interest income and lower loan loss provisions. The lender’s net profit in the period stood at
Election timelines and activities Activity Timeline Nomination of political party candidates and independent candidates for the Presidential Election 29th May, 2022 to 6th June, 2022. Nomination of political party candidates and independent candidates for the National Assembly Elections 29th May, 2022 to 31st May, 2022
The Central Bank of Kenya on Tuesday, May 17, 2022, issued a press release in relation to licensing of Digital Credit Providers (DCPs). The deadline for licensing of DCPs is September 17, 2022. The announcement by CBK serves to remind DCPs that are yet to
The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) recently released the Economic Survey 2022, detailing how various sectors and job markets performed and offered insight into the post Covid-19 recovery. Kenya’s economy rebounded in 2021 compared to 2020, with most sectors recording significant improvement. According to
Acts The County Governments Additional Allocations Act, 2022 National Assembly Bills, 2022 The Public Procurement and Asset Disposal (Amendment) Bill, 2022 PUBLIC SECTOR Appointments The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces of the Republic of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyatta, has gazetted the appointment of Prof.
Election timelines and activities Activity Timeline IEBC to publish in the Gazette, the names and symbols of persons intending to contest in the election as independent candidates 13th May, 2022. Political parties intending to present a Presidential and Deputy Presidential candidates through party primaries or
The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) has published draft rules that will, among other things, provide for share buybacks by listed companies in Kenya. Despite the Companies Act, 2015, introducing the concept of share buyback in the country, the CMA expressed concerns that the move could
KENYA Azimio, Kenya Kwanza allied MPs turn Kibaki sitting to political duel A special sitting of the National Assembly to mourn former President Mwai Kibaki was reduced to a political duel between Azimio la Umoja, One Kenya and Kenya Kwanza coalitions. The sitting was called
KENYA Safaricom gets Sh46bn loan for Addis licence Standard Chartered Bank Kenya was one of the major banks that lent Safaricom a total of $400 million (Sh46.3 billion) last year, helping the telecom operator pay for its Ethiopian licence. “The $400 million facilities comprised a
Election timelines and activities Activity Timeline Resignation of public officers intending to vie for elective posts 9th February, 2022 Political Parties to submit party membership lists to the IEBC 9th April, 2022. Political parties intending to present candidates in the election to submit the names
Kenya is poised to introduce coding for secondary and primary school students. This is after the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) approved a new syllabus that offers to equip children with coding skills. The rollout of the syllabus in Kenya will be a first
