Kevin Marube
Articles by Kevin Marube
Huawei, Equity, OUK launch ICT Academy, boost Innovation
Huawei Kenya, in partnership with Equity Group Foundation, have officially launched the Huawei ICT Academy at the Open University of Kenya, marking a major stride toward empowering thousands of learners through flexible, selfpaced digital skills training. The initiative aims to enroll and train 10,000 students, equipping them with industry relevant ICT skills and Huawei professional certifications in Artificial Intelligence, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity and Coding. The Academy will focus on innovation-driven learning, offering dual certification, both academic and Huawei-recognized and will support the establishment of a Virtual Innovation Hub to foster student-led solutions to real-world challenges. In addition, the partnership also
Amorim gets first league win after Man Utd thump Everton
Ruben Amorim collected his first Premier League victory in emphatic fashion as his Manchester United side easily put away lowly Everton at Old Trafford. United drew at Ipswich last weekend in Amorim’s first game in charge since replacing interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, before beating Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League on Thursday. On Sunday they were initially wasteful in the final third and had little control of the contest, but they were clinical once they broke through with Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee both scoring twice. The hosts attempted to sign visiting defender Jarrad Branthwaite in the summer and it
Amorim era begins with a draw at Ipswich
Manchester United had to settle for a point at Ipswich In Ruben Amorim’s first game in charge despite striker Marcus Rashford providing a perfect start with his 81 second opener. Omari Hutchinson levelled for Ipswich before the break, with United keeper Andre Onana twice denying Liam Delap with stunning saves. It was a disappointing outcome for Amorim as his side struggled to contain Ipswich at times and found the home defence in defiant mood when it did seem an opportunity would come. Skipper Bruno Fernandes flashed a late free-kick wide but Ipswich fully deserved their point and without Onana would
Kenya EACC arrests 4 County Official over corruption
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has nabbed 4 senior officials of the Taita Taveta County government over alleged mismanagement of public funds. The 4 are accused of embezzling KSh 7million belonging to the public. The suspects are accused of incurring the expenditure purportedly in commemoration of World War I. Confirming the arrests on Tuesday, EACC spokesperson Eric Ngumbi said that the 3 suspects were arrested in Taita Taveta while the fourth suspect was arrested in Eldoret. “The 4 suspects were escorted to EACC Lower Coast regional offices in Mombasa where they will be processed and later detained at Mombasa Central
Joe Biden Pulls out of re-election race
US President Joe Biden has announced that he will end his candidacy for re-election, saying “it is in the best interest of my party and the country”. It comes 4 months before Americans go to the polls, upending the race for the White House. It follows weeks of intense pressure from fellow Democrats after a faltering debate performance against Republican Donald Trump at the end of June. Following the announcement on Sunday evening, President Biden gave his endorsement in the presidential race to Vice President Kamala Harris. In a letter posted to his social media account, he said it had
England reach Euro semis after a penalty shootout win against Switzerland
England have advanced to the Euro 2024 semi-finals almost by stealth, producing another indifferent performance for long periods here, then going behind again before digging themselves out of a hole to win. England’s performances in Germany may not have hit high standards but there is no doubting their resilience and capacity to overcome adversity, as they proved again after Switzerland went in front. It was a particularly sweet moment for Liverpool’s Alexander-Arnold to strike the decisive penalty, having been dropped from his experimental midfield role after their second game, against Denmark, then being overlooked when Southgate decided to use wing-backs.
Schools to re-open on Monday 13th for the second term
All schools will re-open for the second term on Monday following 2 postponements over floods that have ravaged the country since last month. President William Ruto, who made the announcement Wednesday, said he is relying on advise from the Kenya Meteorological Department which has predicted favorable conditions from next week. “The president has made the announcement for the schools to re-open on Monday next week,” an official at State House said. The president made the announcement during a meeting with Kajiado and Laikipa leaders. The president said the government will avail funds for damaged schools infrastructure through Constituency Development Fund.
Federations unable to account for KSh3.9 billion from Sports Fund – Auditor General
Sports federations have failed to account for KSh3.9 billion of public funds disbursed to them through the Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund, according to the most recent audited government books by Auditor General Nancy Gathungu. The amount accounts for a staggering 36.79% of the KSh10.6 billion that was released for promotion and development of sports. In the report covering the financial year ending 30 June 2022, Auditor General Nancy Gathungu also raises questions over irregular disbursements to the Athletics World Under-20 Championships organizing committee, amounting to KSh1.36 billion, primarily due to unjustified procurement methods. “[…] Review of the procurement
Doctors’ strike: CS Kindiki declares industrial action illegal
Interior and National administration Cabinet secretary Kithure kindiki,has declared the doctors’ industrial action as illegal by referring to the court order given on 3 April. CS Kindiki said he is concerned that the participants of the KMPDU-led industrial action by health workers, continues to defy the said court order. He also noted that the same are intimidating and threatening health workers who are not taking part. The Employment and Labour Relations court, had given directions to the parties that they engage in negotiation within fourteen days and thereafter file in court a memorandum of understanding. CS Kindiki stated that, “the
Govt earmarks 2,000 acres of land to be acquired for security camp
Plans to start purchasing 2.185 acres of property in Samburu County in order to establish a security installation have been made public by the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government. The National Lands Commission affirmed in a Gazette notice of 25 March that the Losesia Community will be the seller of the subject land. The notification stated, in part, “IN PURSUANCE of the Land Act, 2012, Part VIII, the National Land Commission on behalf of the Ministry of Interior and National Administration gives notice that the National Government intends to acquire the following parcel of land for the
Doctors rejected KSh2.4bn State offer on hiring of interns
Kenya’s health crisis has deepened after doctors rejected a government offer to call off strike in what is set to prolong the pain of patients into the fourth week. The medics on Wednesday maintained that unless the government addressed all their grievances they will not report to work, a day after the government said it had released KSh2.4 billion to hire interns. The Employment and Labour Relations Court on Wednesday ordered doctors to suspend the strike that has since entered its 22nd day and give room for negotiations. Justice Byram Ongaya ordered that the negotiations be completed within fourteen days
Shock as over 30 children in Langas disappear through child trafficking
Langas slum in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu county has been peaceful and safe, atleast as far as kids and babies safety was concerned. This was the case till Human Rights advocates and detectives discovered a child trafficking network few days ago, that shocked the slum. It was discovered that the employees of a certain private hospital, collude with traffickers who make fake birth certificates which they use to facilitate the transfer of the kidnapped children. In this child trafficking network, 3 women were arrested by the detectives and booked at Naiberi police station for stealing and trafficking children aged between 7
Ministry of Health addresses surge in respiratory illnesses
The Ministry of Health has responded to a recent increase in respiratory infections, particularly noting a rise in influenza cases and continued monitoring of COVID-19 variants. Influenza infections are typically self-limiting but may also result in severe disease or death, especially in high-risk individuals. Dr. Patrick Amoth, Ag. Director General for Health, reassures the public of the Ministry’s vigilant surveillance systems and advises strict adherence to preventive measures. “We have been monitoring influenza cases over the last 2 decades,” said Dr. Amoth, adding, “We have observed the occurrence of cases throughout the year with an upsurge of cases in 2
Over 80% of public schools doesn’t hold title deeds – says CS Wahome
Out of the 31,000 public schools in the nation, just 5,226 have title deeds. This was revealed by Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome on Wednesday during a question-and-answer session with senators. Wahome responded when Kirinyaga Senator James Murango asked about the status of title deed issuance nationwide as well as in the county. 5,799 schools are in line to obtain their title documents and have reservation files, according to the compilation made public by Wahome. Title deeds were being issued as a result of a 2019 audit that made clear how important it is to give these vital documents to
Procurement of branded items banned across ministries, state agencies
Purchasing branded or promotional goods has been outlawed by the government for all state ministries, agencies, and corporations. Felix Koskei, the Chief of Staff and Head of the Public Service under President William Ruto, directed accounting officers to follow the new regulation in a circular dated 18 March, 2024. The email states that there won’t be any purchases of merchandise or promotional materials, including but not limited to t-shirts, shirts, tracksuits, and other branded apparel. Koskei defended the move by stating that the administration was trying to streamline how the state spent and used its financial resources. Part of the
Pressure mounts as legislators demand special audit on fake fertilizer
Top officials within the Kenya Bureau of Standards and the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) are now on the radar after Members of Parliament called for a special audit on the allegation of fake fertilizer across the country. KEBS had accused a Kenyan-based regional fertilizer merchant of fraud after it emerged the firm supplied substandard fertilizer to the NCPB. The National Assembly Public Investment Committee on Commercial Affairs and Energy has directed the Office of the Auditor General to conduct an audit within one month which is set to recommend prosecution of individuals in the scandal. The audit will
Shakahola cult victims’ bodies to be released for burial
The Kenyan government plans to release some of the bodies of Shakahola starving cult victims next week. Out of the hundreds of bodies that were exhumed last year, at least thirty-four have been recognized and connected to their families. Four hundred and twenty nine people’s bodies, including several children, were exhumed from graves in Shakahola, a secluded woodland outside of Malindi, a seaside town. The majority had evidence of malnutrition and assault. Self-described “pastor” Paul Mackenzie urged followers of his Good News International Church to relocate there and get ready for the end of the world, according to survivors and
More than 100 Nigerian pupils abducted from Kaduna State school
More than 100 Nigerian school students have been abducted in the North-Western town of Kuriga, witnesses say. The pupils were in the assembly ground around 08:30 (07:30GMT) when dozens of gunmen on motorcycles rode through the school, one witness said. The students, between the ages of eight and 15, were taken away, along with a teacher, they added. Kidnap gangs, known as bandits, have seized hundreds of people in recent years, especially the north-west. However, there had been a reduction in the mass abduction of children over the past year until this week. The eyewitness said that one pupil was
EAC leaders have agreed to support one candidate for AUC chair- Ruto
President William Ruto on Tuesday affirmed that East African Community leaders have agreed to sponsor Azimio leader Raila Odinga as the candidate for the African Union (AU) Commission chairman post. Addressing the preliminary opening of the East Africa Legislative Assembly (EALA) special sittings held at Parliament chambers, Ruto urged that the move to support Odinga’s bid will help secure wins for the African continent. “As you are all aware that the chairmanship of the AU is coming up next year as the term for the current chair Moussa Faki comes to an end. It is going to be the turn
21 spend less than 10% budget on development- Controller of Budget
Devolved Units have been put on the limelight for derailing development by using 60% of their budgets on recurrent expenditure which mainly involves payment of salaries and wages. In a span of 6 months 21 county governments spent less than 10% of their revenue on development projects. The details were released in the latest budget implementation review report for the first half of the 2023-24 financial year between July 1 and October 31, 2023. The Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang’o revealed details of how Kisii, Nairobi, Machakos, West Pokot and Nyandarua absorbed the least percentage of their budgets at 2.9%,
UDA endorses Raila for AU job
The ruling United Democratic Alliance party has formally endorsed Azimio La Umoja One Kenya leader Raila Odinga’s bid for the top African Union (AU) Commission job. Speaking during a press conference on Saturday, UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala stated that Odinga deserves to be the next AU chairperson given his overwhelming experience in an array of fields, terming him ‘a luminary in African politics.’ ”The right Honorable Raila Odinga is undoubtable an African luminary of unmatched capability. We join many across the continent in restating that Honorable Odinga deserved the AU chairmanship given his distinguished accolades and contribution to the
Raila’s bid for AU top job to bring him together with Ruto
The aspiration of Raila Odinga, the leader of the Azimio coalition, to assume the position of the fifth Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) appears likely to bring him together with his longstanding political rival, President William Ruto. According to political analyst Javas Bigambo, Raila’s potential elevation to the prominent continental role could mend the fractured relationship between him and President Ruto, who were once political allies but have since become adversaries. In the fiercely contested presidential election of August 2022, Raila narrowly suffered defeat to President Ruto. Despite the seasoned opposition leader’s allegations of electoral fraud, which he
Lawyer Ahmednassir Adullahi banned from Supreme court
The Supreme Court has permanently barred prominent lawyer Ahmednassir Abdullahi from making submissions before it. The ban issued on Thursday and signed by the Registrar of the Supreme Court L. Wachira was issued by the full bench of the apex court. The judges said the ban also applies to associates in his law firm. “In view of the foregoing, it is the decision of this Court, that henceforth and from the date of this Communication, you shall have no audience before the Court, either by yourself, through an employee of your law firm, or any other person holding brief for
Ksh14.4b released for students loans and grants
The second tranche of State financing towards student scholarships and loans in public universities under the new higher education funding model has been released. The Ministry of Education said on Thursday that the funds amounting to KSh14.4 billion will cover scholarships and loans to first-year and continuing students during semester 2 of the 2023/24 academic year. Out of the total amount released, KSh10.39 billion will go towards loans under the Higher Education Loans Board (Helb) while KSh3.98 billion will be disbursed as scholarships through the Universities Fund(UF). The release of funds comes as a relief for the learners under the
Murder charges against two suspects for murder of Meru blogger
Two individuals who are suspected of killing Meru blogger Daniel Muthiani Bernard, also known as Sniper, will face murder charges, according to a directive from the director of public prosecutions. According to a statement from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), Murangiri Kenneth Guantai, also known as Tali, and Vincent Mureithi Kirimi, also known as Supuu, are the suspects that will face charges. On December 2, 2023, the Meru blogger was reported missing. On December 16, 2023, his body was found thrown in the Mutonga River in Tharaka Nithi County.The DPP said on Thursday that, following a
Gachagua drops petition against Justice Esther Maina
After accusing Justice Esther Maina of corruption, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has ‘for now’ abandoned his intended petition against her. The DP praised the conversation on accountability between Chief Justice Martha Koome and President William Ruto in a statement sent from his office. Through his director of communications, Njeri Rugene, Gachagua stated, “The Deputy President notes the current national discourse on judicial transparency and application of Article 10 of the Kenyan Constitution on the conduct of Judges and other Judicial Officers.” “In this regard, the Deputy President will not be pursuing the petition at this time.” stated Rugene. He has
Lake Basin to lure China Square to Kisumu
Lake Basin Development Authority (LBDA) has kicked off negotiations with China Square to be the anchor tenant at their Mall in Mamboleo, Kisumu. The Authority Managing Director Wycliffe Ochiaga says they are optimistic of attracting huge human traffic if the negotiations bear fruit. China Square hit headlines in February last year when Nairobi business people demanded its closure citing unfair competition. Ochiaga now says they are keen to bring the investor to the lakeside city to spur growth in the region and offer employment opportunities to the locals. “As we speak today, there are negotiations ongoing with China Square and
Chief justice directs judicial officers to uphold rule of law
Chief Justice Martha Koome has advised Judges and Judicial Officers to uphold the independence and the rule of law a day after President William Ruto warned that his regime will ruthlessly stifle judicial activism and impunity which impedes the government’s development agenda. In a press statement released on Wednesday evening, Koome regretted that Judges and Judicial Officers were subjected to public criticism for issuing court orders that were perceived to be against State programmes and policies. The CJ who is also the President of the Judicial Service Commission assured Kenyans that any allegations or complaints of misconduct or corruption by
Safaricom drops data charges for PWDs job seekers
Safaricom has dropped data charges for users of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) career portal to lessen the burden for job seekers with special needs. The telco has inked a partnership with the platform’s developer, Fuzu, to enable users to access job openings as well as submit applications without incurring data usage charges. The NCPWD portal offers persons with disabilities access to job advertisements and online training to enhance their employability. The portal also aids employers to easily identify and recruit persons with disabilities. Safaricom chief executive Peter Ndegwa termed the initiative a testament to the telco’s
Push for JSS to be domiciled in secondary schools next year
Shifting the junior secondary school (JSS) segment from primary to secondary school premises offers several advantages. Firstly, having both levels in the same location facilitates a smoother transition for students, easing the shift from primary to secondary education. This integration enables students to adapt gradually to new subjects and teaching methods without the challenge of adjusting to an entirely new environment. Furthermore, the co-location of facilities such as libraries, laboratories, and sports grounds benefits both junior and senior secondary students, promoting efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Shared resources eliminate the need for duplication in separate locations, fostering interaction between older and younger
TSC to consult ministry before transferring teachers
Prior to promoting or transferring teachers, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) is now required to consult with the Ministry of Education (MoE). This represents a change from the current situation, in which the TSC has considerable influence over advancement and deployment. The order seeks to standardize teacher management practices, including deployment, advancement, and the welfare of educators, principals, and head teachers. It is based on the education reform taskforce report authored by Prof. Raphael Munavu. Concerns over the lack of communication surrounding teacher progress and transfers between TSC and MoE were raised by stakeholders, particularly heads of institutions. The failure
KenGen imposes KSh364m late payment fees on Kenya Power
Kenya Electricity Generating Company hit Kenya Power with a KSh364.6 million penalty in the year ended June 2023 for late payment of electricity supplied, marking the latest of such charges. The power producer had charged the electricity distributor KSh847.9 million a year earlier. The late payments and attendant penalties have served to raise Kenya Power’s costs. “Interest income from the Kenya Power and Lighting Company relates to interest penalties charged to Kenya Power due to late payments of invoices,” says KenGen in it’s latest annual report. “Interest on late payments accrues after forty days after billing and Kenya Power acknowledging
Cheap alcohol to military cut by 40% in govt move to fight ‘abuse’
The military has turned to importing more liquor after local supply of duty-free drinks to the Kenya Defence Forces’ shops and canteens were cut by 40% due to abuse of the programme. A new report by the National Treasury shows taxes foregone due to the supply of duty-free alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to the Defence Forces Canteen Organisation (Defco) in 2022 reduced sharply after local brewers significantly cut the volume of liquor they sold to the military’s shops and restaurants. This saw Defco — the official trading organisation for the Kenya Defence Force (KDF) and the National Police Service (NPS)
Traders without digital ETRs to incur higher tax
Traders have less than 2 months to sign up for the electronic tax invoice management system (eTIMS) or risk higher taxes and stiffer penalties in a fresh bid by the taxman to enhance value-added tax (VAT) compliance. The Kenya Revenue Authority this week said that non-compliant businesses will be blocked from subtracting expenses from revenue that are subjected to taxation. “Please note that any business expenditure not supported by an eTIMS generated tax invoice shall not be deductible for tax purposes with effect from 1 January, 2024,” Commissioner for Domestic Taxes Department Rispah Simiyu warned. The deductible expenses that non-compliant
KMPDC seeks punitive measures against 6,901 license defaulters
The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has written to the police demanding action against 3,851 health facilities and 3,050 medical and dental practitioners yet to renew their licenses. KMPDC also wants health insurance firms including the National Health Insurance Fund to blacklist the said practitioners and facilities which include faith-based centres. The listed institutions, according to a notice published on Saturday, have failed to renew their licenses for periods ranging between a year and twelve years. The health facilities operating without renewing their licenses in Nairobi include; 3RD Park Hospital Limited, A. B Centre Dental Clinic, A.I.C Zion
Government claims that funding free education is difficult
The government, led by Education CS Ezekiel Machogu, has released a statement expressing it’s difficulties in fully financing education programs. Ministry of Education officials are concerned about a potential crisis unless immediate action is taken to allocate additional funds through the supplementary budget. During a session with the National Assembly Committee on Education, Basic Education permanent secretary Belio Kipsang revealed that the ministry is in discussions with the National Treasury regarding a budgetary deficit of KSh22 billion, essential for the proper operation of educational institutions. However, the committee chairman, Julius Melly, criticized Dr. Kipsang for being overly bureaucratic and evasive
KRA searches estates for tax non-paying landlords
The Kenya Revenue Authority has stepped up efforts to move into estates in search of landlords who have not been paying rental income taxes from the rents they receive from tenants. On 3 November, the KRA sent a notice to property owners of the expansive Nyayo Estate in Nairobi, in what will also culminate into a rigorous data collection exercise. Nyayo Estate, a gated community built by the National Social Security Council with 4,774 units, is a perfect candidate for the taxman’s latest efforts to rope in more landlords, partly due to it’s formal ownership structure. “This is to confirm
Heads of primary schools want improved CBC infrastructure
Over ten thousand heads of elementary schools have gathered for their annual meeting in Mombasa. This meeting’s main goal is to rethink and promote constructive change in the education sector, which represents a major departure from the old 8-4-4 educational structure. The Kenya Primary Schools Head Teachers Association (Kepsha) chairman, Johnson Nzioka, conveyed the happiness of educators over the present status of education in the nation. The focus now shifts to the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) as the 8-4-4 system is being phased out in their schools, including the recent completion of the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exam by
Champions League results: Shakhtar stun Barcelona as Milan overturn PSG
Danylo Sikan’s towering header gave Shakhtar Donetsk a 1-0 win against La Liga champions Barcelona in their Group H match. The 22-year-old forward gave the Ukrainian side, playing in Hamburg, a shock lead in the 40th minute against the 5 time European champions who dominated possession throughout. Sikan jumped behind defender Andreas Christensen to meet a Giorgi Gocholeishvili cross from the right and nod the ball just out of reach of Marc-André ter Stegen in the Barça goal. The defeat ended Barcelona’s 100% start to the group and enabled Porto to pull level on 9 points at the top after
Kenya Power last mile project funding reduced by KSh5B
The funding for Kenya Power’s Last Mile Electricity Connectivity Programme has been cut by KSh5 billion, according to the Treasury disclosures. Reduced and delayed funding has hurt KPLC’s performance, with the power distributor shouldering the costs including those of connecting households at subsidized rates. In the latest mini-budget, funding of the project has been slashed to KSh6.4 billion in the current fiscal year ending June next year from KSh11.4 billion that had earlier been budgeted. Consequently, the government has also revised downwards its target for the number of new customers to be connected to electricity in the review period by
Treasury provides CDF KSh1B to build JSS classrooms
The State Department of Education’s KSh1 billion budget has been reallocated by the Treasury to the National Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF) in order to build classrooms for junior secondary school (JSS) students. The State Department for Basic Education was originally given KSh3.379 billion by the Treasury for the construction of classrooms and integrated learning resource centers in JSS during the 2023–2024 fiscal year. A KSh1 billion increase for development expenditures has been added to the State Department of Economic Planning’s budget, according to the Supplementary Estimates I for the 2023–24 fiscal year. The allocation was reported to Parliament by
Seized assets fund activated by the Treasury
As the government intensifies it’s crackdown on money laundering and criminal networks, the Treasury has created a fund to manage assets seized from illicit activity. The Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering (Criminal Assets Recovery Fund) Regulations were formally published by Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u, launching the fund and facilitating the appointment of a director to act as the fund administrator and the creation of an asset recovery advisory board. The director will oversee and administer the day-to-day management of the fund, including opening and running it’s bank accounts, while the asset recovery advisory board is anticipated to provide
Kenya bans avocado exports
The government has stopped the export of avocados from Friday to allow the fruits to mature as part of measures to protect Kenya’s lucrative export market. In a notice on Tuesday, the Horticultural Crops Directorate (HCD) suspended the export of Hass, Pinkerton, Fuerte, and Jumbo avocado varieties by sea starting 3 November, 2023. The directorate has, however, cleared air shipment of avocados, including those in transit from other East African Community (EAC) countries. The directorate says the decision follows a survey it undertook to authenticate the maturity indices of the avocado fruits in the major production zones. “Following the findings
King Charles III acknowledges past painful British atrocities in Kenya
King Charles III described the historical atrocities carried out by the British government against Kenyans during their independence movement as “abhorrent and unjustifiable,” expressing his profound regret and sadness for them. During their October 2023 visit to Kenya, President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto hosted a State Banquet at which the King and Queen Camilla spoke. “There were abhorrent and unjustifiable acts of violence committed against Kenyans as they waged a painful struggle for independence and sovereignty – and for that, there can be no excuse,” King Charles III said at the event, which was also attended by
University funding formula changed by ministry of education
All parents with students in universities and colleges will now be required to pay fees following the government review of the new funding formula, which comes months after it’s initial unveiling. This change contradicts the initial plan of relieving parents incapable of financing their children’s higher education, as all households will now contribute to the fees. The updated funding formula has been adjusted to include scholarships, tuition fees, household contributions, and student upkeep. Additionally, the 4 student categories of “vulnerable,” “extremely needy,” “needy,” and “less needy” have been expanded to 5 and renamed as “bands.” In this revised formula, all
KRA: The Law is clear on restricted items and customs
The Kenya Revenue Authority has come under a barrage of criticism following a post on Monday, 30 October stating that travelers entering or leaving the country will be subjected to tax on any items worth USD500 (KSh75,000) and above. The post on it’s official X account which has since been brought down, drew criticism from netizens with a huge percentage terming the move as ‘backward and authoritarian.’ “All goods whether new or used, are subject to taxation. Remember when traveling, you will be allowed to carry personal or household items worth USD500 (KSh75,350) and below. Anything above the amount shall
Hustler Fund loans budget cut to KSh5bn
With the most recent budgetary adjustments, the Treasury signaled a decrease in the amount of low-cost State-backed mobile loans by cutting the Hustler Fund’s budget by nearly half to KSh5 billion. This comes from the KSh10 billion that Njuguna Ndung’u, the Treasury Cabinet Secretary, first set aside in June for the Hustler Fund—officially named the Financial Inclusion Fund—for 2023–2024. The Fund was created in accordance with the Kenya Kwanza coalition’s Bottom-Up election campaign pledge to make it easier for small enterprises and low-income individuals to obtain affordable loans over the phone. One of President William Ruto’s campaign pledges, the Hustler
US pledges to make Nairobi investment magnet in Africa
In the current bilateral trade negotiations, the Biden administration has committed to bringing Kenya’s investment climate up to a level that will serve as an example for other African nations. The primary negotiator in the negotiations, Constance Hamilton, the Assistant US Trade Representative for Africa, predicted that the negotiations will draw multinational corporations to Nairobi, generating good jobs for millions of young, skilled Kenyans without employment. Under the framework of the US-Kenya Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership (STIP). Which they began drafting in July 2022, just before former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s term came to an end. The 2 nations are
City beat United in Manchester derby
Manchester City cruised past Manchester United with embarrassing ease in the derby at Old Trafford to emphasise the vast gulf between the 2 sides. Erling Haaland was the main tormentor with goals in each half before setting up a third for Phil Foden as Pep Guardiola’s side established superiority from the kick-off and rarely looked like relinquishing control. There were poignant scenes before the start as supporters from both sides of Manchester’s footballing divide joined to pay tribute to the late Sir Bobby Charlton. For manager Erik ten Hag and his players, the match that followed was one to forget.
KSh62bn more for education sector in mini- budget
The education sector will receive a third of the KSh187.3 billion mini-budget, the first in the 2023–24 spending plan to cater for multiple shortfalls in the capitation of the docket. The allocation to the sector in the supplementary budget submitted to the National Assembly on Thursday shows that the sector will receive KSh62.1 billion in the proposed additional appropriations. The State Department for Higher Education and Research will receive an additional 29.3 billion, taking the unit’s total budget for the year to June to KSh157.9 billion from KSh128.6 billion. “The increase is on account of a shortfall for scholarships for
Elimu Center: Tale of brink of collapse as a business to high-impact non-profit
From the brink of collapse due to the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, Elimu Center is now set to relaunch as a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization at a colorful gala set to be held on 28th October 2023 and will now be known as a Elimu Community Center. The launch will also serve as a a fund-raising event to kick-start the Center’s operations. “We plead with you to help us realize this goal. We hope to secure a spacious building where events and programs will be affordable and accessible,” says Julie Weche, the Founder, in her message to well
Hernia patients to benefit from KNH medical surgery camp
The second annual Hernia and Undescended Testis medical surgical camp at Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi will help over ninety people suffering from these conditions. According to Francisca Syovata, a pediatric surgeon at KNH, patients who cannot afford this life-changing procedure will benefit immensely from the five-day medical camp, which began on Monday and is scheduled to end on Friday. The National Hospital and Insurance Fund will pay for the patients’ treatment. According to Syovata, the number of patients with hernias and undescended testicles has increased, necessitating the urgent necessity to hold a second medical camp at the hospital. She
Effects of Israel-Hamas war to Kenya
As oil prices rise due to worries about an unstable Middle East and a potential strengthening of the dollar against the shilling as investors flee to the safe haven of the US economy, the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian organization Hamas is expected to cause Kenya new economic suffering. The Middle East, which is Kenya’s main supplier of gasoline and a major market for it’s exports of food and livestock products, is threatening to send more participants to the battle, which started 2 weeks ago. Thus, the repercussions of the war are likely to be similar to those of
National government expenditure drops by KSh8 billion in first quarter
Following the conclusion of the election campaign, the cost of administering the national government decreased slightly in the first quarter of the current fiscal year, which ends in June 2024. In the 3 months leading up to September, the Ruto administration spent KSh268.10 billion on operations, maintenance, and salaries and wages, a decrease of 2.90% from KSh276.11 billion during the same time in the previous year. The KSh8.01 billion decrease in daily operating expenses for the administration, Parliament, the judiciary, and independent commissions year over year is mostly attributable to lower election spending after the conclusion of the bitterly contested
Gates foundation to advise on Maisha Namba rollout
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation will advise the State on the rollout of a new digital ID system dubbed Maisha Namba. The plan for a digital identity includes the Maisha Namba, which is a unique personal number assigned to the Maisha Card — a third-generation digital identity card, and the National Master Population Register, which is expected to consolidate existing and independent databases into a single register. The Maisha Card will replace the current second-generation identity card. “Our role is always as an adviser. We can connect the government to key technical experts and partners, but we’re very encouraged
Services to be charged at Huduma centres
According to Moses Kuria, the Public Service Cabinet Secretary, the government intends to charge a fee for the services provided at Huduma centers all around the country. After officially taking over from Aisha Jumwa on Monday, Mr. Kuria stated that the tax will be applied to both public and commercial sector services. The CS stated that the fees on the 60,000 daily transactions will make the centers self-sustaining without specifying how much would be charged. “My first area in that endeavour is to ensure Huduma centres do not depend on money from the Exchequer but we generate our own revenue,”
Power prices rise 3.7% on higher cost of fuel
Kenyans will pay more for electricity this month after the energy regulator increased prices owing to higher fuel costs and a weaker shilling. The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority has raised the Fuel Energy Charge (FEC) to KSh4.94 per unit, an increase of 18.7% from KSh4.16 last per unit month. EPRA also raised the foreign exchange rate fluctuation adjustment (Ferfa) from KSh1.38 per unit to KSh2.05, an increase of 48.5%. This has pushed up the cost of a unit of electricity to about KSh28 for an ordinary domestic customer, an increase of about 3.7% from about KSh27 per unit in
Nairobi is wealthier than twenty nine combined counties
Nairobi City County is contributing more to Kenya’s economy than twenty nine other counties combined, a new report shows. Highlighting the concentration of wealth and the importance of Kenya’s capital to the GDP of East Africa’s biggest economy. An analysis of government data also shows that the share of economic productivity for city residents is nearly 3 times higher than that of other Kenyans. Controlling Kenya’s manufacturing, construction and services industries, Nairobi generated 27.5% to Kenya’s gross domestic product (GDP) over the past 5 years, its productivity growing by about KSh700 billion in the past 2 years alone. On the
Foreigners to be compelled to buy local health cover
Regardless of the length of their stay, all visitors to Kenya will be required to purchase local health insurance coverage. Generating a new source of revenue for the insurance business, from the more than 1.5 million foreign visitors who come to the country every year. All international visitors to Kenya will now be required to carry travel health insurance, according to a proposal made by the National Assembly’s health committee. Which is evaluating the Social Health Insurance Bill, 2023. “A person who is a non-Kenyan and intends to enter the territory of Kenya for a period of less than twelve
Ruto assents to the privatization bill 2023
President William Ruto has signed into law a legislation which seeks to speed up the process of privatising State owned corporations by allowing the National Treasury the authority to sell off the entities without Parliamentary approval. The President who is on a tour of Kisumu and Siaya counties of Nyanza region, assented to the Privatisation Act 2023 on Monday as he hopes it will spur his plans to sell a number of State-owned firms through the Nairobi Securities Exchange this year. The head of state said in June that his government would bring consider Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) between 6
DP Gachagua maintains no apology stance over ‘shareholder’ remarks
In a steadfast response to the backlash he has faced, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua stood his ground, defending the controversial remarks he made in February, asserting that priorities within the Kenya Kwanza administration would be directed toward what he termed as “shareholders.” His statements, which President William Ruto labeled as “primitive,” have sparked widespread criticism. Speaking at a fundraiser at the Kapsabet ACK church in Nandi County on Sunday, Deputy President Gachagua made it clear that he had no intentions of retracting his comments, which have ignited a nationwide debate. Addressing the gathering, he reiterated his stance, stating, “The matter
Teachers rewarded for stellar performance in last year national exams
Kenya marked World Teachers’ Day Thursday by honoring educators from schools who performed exceptionally well in the previous year’s national exams. The Teachers Service Commission acknowledged their exceptional work and commitment to raising the future generation. Jackson Yebei, a teacher at AIC Kaptich Primary School in Nandi County, excelled in the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education exam. Last year’s exam results showed that his school had the best performance nationally, which was a result of the diligence of both pupils and teachers. Mr. Kiplimo was honored for his dedication to academic success, which was highly deserved. The second-place finisher nationally
New bill to put an end to public transport fare hikes
A ground-breaking bill to control commuter fees that the National Assembly is presently debating, may soon put an end to fare increases planned by public transportation providers. Didmus Barasa, a Kimilili MP, is the primary sponsor of the National Transport Safety Authority Amendment Bill, which aims to create a new section particularly devoted to formulating policy guidelines for the control of passenger fares in Kenya’s public service vehicles. According to the Bill, the Cabinet Secretary would have the authority to create regulations that specify the maximum and minimum tariffs that motorists in public service vehicles must pay. They will do
New NHIF management team announced after competitive recruitment
The National Health Insurance Fund has announced the appointment of a new Chief Executive Officer and 6 directors to lead the transition of the Fund into its successor. The Board of the NHIF made the announcement on Thursday 5 October, 2023, after conducting a competitive and open recruitment process. The new CEO is Elijah Wachira, who will be joined by 6 directors who will oversee various functions of the Fund. Hazel Koitaba was appointed as the Director of Beneficiary and Provider Management, while Ibrahim Mohamed Alio became the Director of Corporate Services. Mr. Pariken Ole Sankei is the new Director of
State to declare new maize prices this week
The government will announce maize producer price this week as the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) starts buying from farmers. The Ministry of Agriculture has reassured farmers that NCPB stores across the country will be opened. “Farmers should be on standby because any time from this minute, the price will be announced. The government will factor operation and input costs before determining the price to ensure producers earn good returns from their investment,” said Kello Harsama, Principal Secretary, Crops. He cautioned farmers not to rush to sell their produce to middlemen at throw-away prices. Farmers in the North Rift
Data protection and schools to hold crisis meeting over pupils photos
In order to address the rules and precautions to take while dealing with children’s images that are either published online or on print, the Kenya Private Schools Association (KPSA) has scheduled a meeting with Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait. According to Commissioner Kassait, who was speaking on Hot 96 on Wednesday, the meeting will increase compliance even though parents continue to voice their worries about schools posting their kids’ pictures online without their permission. In the interview, Kassait highlighted that publishing photographs of children online exposes them to dangers like cyberbullying, which is particularly dangerous for young children. Kassait emphasized the
Fuel consumption drops to 5 year low as Kenyans keep cars at home
With the exception of the Covid-19 epidemic era, fuel consumption declined to it’s lowest levels in more than 5 years between January and June due to high pump costs that suppressed demand and encouraged the middle class to leave their cars at home. According to official figures, super gasoline consumption declined by 5% to 1.01 billion liters from 1.074 billion liters the previous year, while diesel consumption dropped by 4% to 1.31 billion liters from 1.36 billion during the same time. With the exception of 2020, when limits put in place to stop the coronavirus’s spread caused demand from the
Restrictions on foreign travel for government officials
The government has enacted stringent restrictions on foreign travel for it’s officials with an aim of allocating resources more prudently. The restrictions apply to a wide range of categories, including benchmarking and study visits, training and capacity-building initiatives, research endeavors, academic gatherings and symposia, conferences and general participation meetings, side events, showcase exhibitions, and caucus and association meetings and events. In a press statement sent to newsrooms on Monday, 2 October, State House Chief of Staff Felix Kosgei said officials scheduled to travel and attend events in the mentioned categories should request for virtual participation where available. “As an alternative,
Inflation in Kenya rises slightly to 6.8%
Kenya’s inflation rose marginally in September after all sectors recorded a general increase in prices. According to data released by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), inflation was 6.8% year on year in September from 6.7% a month earlier. The agency notes that prices of commodities under transport, food and non-alcoholic beverages and housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels, increased by 13.0%, 7.9%, and 6.3%, respectively between September 2022 and September 2023. “Food and non-alcoholic beverages index increased by 0.7% between August 2023 and September 2023. This food inflation was mainly attributed to the increase in prices of
NTSA extends operating hours to clear backlog
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has announced an extension of it’s operating hours in a bid to fasten the processing of new number plates, licenses, and logbook collection. NTSA Director General in a statement on Friday, 29 September, stated that the authority’s offices will be open from Monday to Friday 7.30am to 6.00pm. The offices will be operational for close to eleven hours on weekdays and 8 hours during the weekends for the next 2 weeks. “All NTSA Banking Halls and offices will operate, Monday to Friday, from 7.30 am to 6.00 pm. Additionally, NTSA offices will remain
Rachel Ruto invites Benny Hinn for government sponsored crusade
Popular American televangelist Benny Hinn is set to visit the country following an invitation from First Lady Rachel Ruto. Speaking during a church service, Hinn announced that Rachel had extended a government-sponsored trip invitation. “Something amazing happened, the First Lady of Kenya flew from Nairobi to New York, just for one reason to ask me to come back to Nairobi for a national government-sponsored crusade,” the pastor revealed. The government will foot all the costs for the nationwide crusade whose date will be communicated later. According to Hinn, the offer was unexpected, especially from the First Lady. “We haven’t had
Kilifi couple arrested after their 2 children die in suspected cult
Police in Kilifi have arrested a couple that refused to seek medication for their 2 children, causing their death. The couple, Thuo Kimutu and Wanjiru Babu, who believe in faith-healing, were arrested today to face charges. Police reports indicate that 1 of the children died on Saturday, while the second one on Sunday in the hands of a local preacher, where they had gone to seek ‘heavenly’ intervention. Kilifi North Police boss Kenneth Maina confirmed the incident, saying the deceased were a boy and a girl aged thirteen and eleven respectively. Until their untimely demise, the children were learners at
KSh15,000 electricity connection fee for households to continue
Under the third phase of a subsidized scheme, households close to transformers will continue to pay KSh15,000 for access to the national grid, according to Kenya Power. The Kenya power company announced that the new phase of the project, which aims to connect around 150,000 new houses in forty five counties to the national grid, will begin in September of next year. The program does not include Nairobi and Mombasa. Customers paid KSh35,000 in connection fees at the project’s beginning in 2015, but this amount was cut in half to KSh15,000 in 2019, making it easier for households to afford
Extra KSh5bn on taxpayers for hospitality, seminars and rent
Top government officials gobbled up an extra KSh4.99 billion on rent, hospitality, and seminars in the year ended June compared to the previous period, defying calls to cut the wastage of taxpayer funds and ease pressure on the Exchequer. Official data from the Controller of Budget (CoB) on government spending for the period show that the bill on the 3 items shot to KSh25 billion, a 24% jump from KSh20.01 billion spent in the year ended June 2022. The rise defied the new administration’s calls to cut spending on non-critical items as Kenyans bear the brunt of increased taxation to
Nationwide crackdown on illegal internet providers launched
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has commenced plans to rid the country of illegal internet providers. In a statement, CA informed the public that in the recent past, the agency has recorded an increase in cases of illegal connections. Regretting that most Kenyans have fallen for this specific type of unscrupulous trade. The authority further revealed that besides unauthorised internet providers, there are other operators offering postal services without requisite licenses. “It has come to the notice of the Authority that certain entities, including individuals, are providing Internet services, installing communication systems, and providing postal/courier services without requisite licenses,”
Relieve for small traders as they are spared VAT obligations
The Treasury plans to increase the revenue threshold for a trader to qualify as an agent for collecting value-added tax in what will be the first review in more than one and a half decades. Under the draft Medium Term Revenue Strategy, which will run between July 2024 and June 2027. The Treasury has proposed to review upwards the current requirement for a trader to have a minimum of KSh5 million in annual sales to qualify for VAT obligations. The strategy further proposes to harmonise the VAT rate to 18% in line with it’s peers in the seven-nation East African
Prior Learning policy recognition approved by Ministry of Education
The Ministry of Education has approved the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy which recognises skilled workers in the informal sector who do not have any academic documents. Through the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA), the policy will be launched mid-next month with hundreds of immigrants and refugees set to be among the beneficiaries. According to data from the government, 92% of youths in the country have unrecognized competencies acquired through formal and informal means but not certified to practice. Acting Director-General of KNQA Alice Kande said that once in place, the policy would recognize the thousands of skilled workers
How to appeal HELB scholarship if denied
The Universities Fund has advised students whose applications for government scholarships have been rejected that they still have a chance to get the funding. In a statement published by Universities Fund on Thursday, 14 September, the agency invited students to file appeals, to allow them another chance to secure much needed finances for their higher education. According to the Universities Fund, the decision to deny students the scholarships could be due to a number of reasons including; an oversight or by mistake on the part of the government officials. Universities Fund explained that even students who got less money than
Ruto eyes more taxes from food and medicines in IMF deal
As the Ruto government appears to capitulate to ten-year-old pressure from the International Monetary Fund to abandon broad reliefs on consumption, the cost of necessary products and services is expected to rise in a proposed reform of taxes legislation. Njuguna Ndung’u, the Treasury Secretary, has revealed a plan to end the zero-rating of value-added tax on the sale of a number of items, including maize flour, cooking gas, regular bread, medications, agricultural pest management products, and animal feeds. Additionally, the proposed revision will increase the price of necessities like locally made mobile phones, motorbikes, electric bicycles, solar batteries, and electric
EACC challenges in pursuing high-profile corruption cases
The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission, has shed light on the challenges the anti-graft organization faces while pursuing prominent people connected to significant corruption scandals in the nation. The judicial system, according to EACC Chairperson David Oginde, is a major problem since suspects have mastered the court system and it is difficult to hold them accountable. He emphasized the difficulty of establishing guilt in cases of corruption beyond a reasonable doubt. “The way the law is structured on corruption cases especially for criminal, you have to prove your case beyond reasonable doubt. That is not easy in corruption cases,” Oginde said
Religious leaders, lobby groups oppose supreme court decision on LBGTQ
A section of the Mombasa residents, religious leaders and lobby groups on Wednesday protested against Supreme Court decision that reaffirmed the LBGTQ community’s right to associate. The Mombasa anti-LBGTQ group staged a protest along Moi Avenue, faulting the Supreme Court for upholding the right of the National Gay and Lesbian Rights Commission to register. The apex court threw out an application by Homa Bay Town Member of Parliament Peter Kaluma that sought to challenge an earlier court ruling on the registration of the LGBTQ lobby group. In Mombasa, the anti-LBGTQ group carried up banners and posters with messages that demonized
Omena becoming a delicacy in China as Kenya exports 52 tonnes
Kenya has exported it’s first consignment of anchovies, locally known as ‘omena,’ to China, marking a significant milestone in their bilateral relations. This achievement follows the signing of a bilateral agreement between Nairobi and Beijing in January 2022. A total of fifty two tonnes of omena were shipped to China, strengthening the ties between the 2 nations. Wu Peng, the Director-General of the Department of African Affairs, MFA, in China, expressed his satisfaction with the development, highlighting the mutual benefits it brings to the citizens of both countries. “Glad to see the first fifty two tonnes shipment of Kenyan Omena
State proposes KSh20 least betting amount
Gamblers will be restricted to staking amounts of not less than KSh20, if a proposal meant to curb the growing appeal of betting among Kenyans is adopted. The Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) has proposed the minimum stake for online gaming and those using gambling machines. Currently, gamblers stake less than KSh5, which has made betting cheap and fuelled rapid growth among the young and vulnerable persons hoping to win millions in prize money. “A player in an online gambling activity shall not bet an amount of less than twenty shillings in a competition,” BCLB says in the draft
Ikolomani MP Shinali tables Bill to establish unemployment fund
This comes as Ikolomani MP Bernard Shinali tabled the Unemployment Insurance Authority Bill, 2022 seeking to provide benefits to employees who unexpectedly lose their jobs and have no other source of income to sustain them and their beneficiaries. “Kenyans in employment are the ones spinning the wheel of economic growth through paying taxes but there is no safety net to cushion them in the event a disaster strikes or any other eventuality occurs and renders them jobless,” Shinali told The Standard. The lawmaker cited the Covid-19 pandemic which caused many Kenyans to lose their jobs because employers could not manage
Sakaja increases parking fees despite protests from motorists
Nairobi motorists are expected to dig deeper into their pockets to settle parking fees after Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja gazetted the new date for their implementation. In a Gazette Notice dated Friday, 8 September, all motorists have a period of fourteen days to align themselves with the new charges. The levy will begin on Friday, 22 September, 2022. According to the notice, individuals with saloon cars will pay KSh300 at on-street parking zones across the city, an increase from KSh200. Vans and pick-ups, on the other hand, will part with KSh500 for a day’s parking, an increase from KSh200 while
Switching to electric vehicles urgent but not easy
The Transport Ministry has revealed plans to ban the sale of petrol and diesel-powered vehicles in the country by 2030. President William Ruto also said recently there are plans to phase out petrol-powered motorcycles in favour of electric motorcycles. This is a laudable move and would come with a number of benefits including reduction in air pollution and fighting climate change, something that is increasingly becoming urgent. Internal combustion engines emit pollutants including greenhouse gases and continue to make global warming worse. Transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs), therefore, can significantly reduce these emissions. Full adoption of electric vehicles would also
African Union becomes a permanent member of G20
The African Union achieved a historic milestone by securing a permanent seat at the G20 table, marking a significant diplomatic victory. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the host of this year’s G20 summit, made the proposal to admit the AU, and it was met with unanimous approval from member nations. This development is particularly notable as India, a member of BRICS, has been emphasizing it’s commitment to multi-alignment, maintaining strategic autonomy, and avoiding alignment with any particular camp or alliance while working towards a multipolar world. Before delivering his opening speech, Prime Minister Modi warmly greeted the African Union Chair
Most corrupt counties in North Eastern
The anti-corruption agency is investigating sixty seven high profile cases, touching on allegations of corruption and irregular procurement in Marsabit, Mandera, Samburu and Wajir Counties. The EACC, Chief Executive Officer, Twalib Mbarak said the cases are part of 231 graft-related cases received and processed by the Commission touching on the 4 counties. In a report submitted before the Senate Justice and Legal Affairs committee yesterday, the EACC boss said Marsabit county leads with ninety cases, followed by Samburu with eighty seven cases, Wajir thirty two and Mandera twenty two. “The Commission has prioritized sixty seven high impact cases which have
In the past 2 years insiders have defrauded Saccos KSh118m
Savings and credit co-operative societies have lost KSh118.1 million in the past 2 years to fraud, mainly driven by staff, pointing to the increased need for reinforced systems and insurance covers to protect members’ billions of shillings. Sacco Societies Regulatory Authority (Sasra), which oversees 359 Saccos, has for the first time disclosed the fraud in the latest supervision report that sheds light on the operations of these entities that held KSh620.45 billion deposits at the end of last year. The loss was reported to Sasra’s investigative unit, Sacco Societies Fraud Investigations Unit, in addition to a KSh114.4 million that is
Somali journalist union under DDoS attack
The Somali Journalists Syndicate (SJS) is a union with the mission to defend the rights of journalists and promote press freedom in Somalia, a country where journalists operate in a corrupt and violent environment. With more than fifty media workers killed since 2010, Somalia is the most dangerous country for journalists in Africa. On 11 August, SJS was targeted by a large denial-of-service attack and their website was brought down. When the case landed at Qurium’s desk, SJS had already had it’s hosting service disabled by 2 hosting providers as a result of the attacks. “SJS is all about
Two new models launched by Suzuki CFAO Motors
CFAO Motors has launched 2 new mid SUVs from the Suzuki franchise in the Kenyan market, a move that will see it grow it’s market share in the automobile business. The introduction of the Suzuki Grand Vitara and the Suzuki Fronx will see CFAO Motors increase it’s product offering to customers looking to purchase a vehicle in the mid-SUV segment. The Suzuki Fronx is a 1500-engine capacity crossover new model coming to Kenya going for KSh4.29 million including value-added tax. The second car is the Grand Vitara, a 1500-engine capacity SUV that goes for KSh5.3 million inclusive of VAT for
DRC reciprocates Visa requirement lift on Kenyan citizens
The Democratic Republic of Congo has lifted visa restrictions on Kenyans travelling to the Central Africa state. DRC’s Ministry of Interior, Security and customary Affairs made the announcement Wednesday through a circular note addressed to all airline managers. “The Directorate General of Migration informs you that from 1 September, 2023, nationals of the Republic of Kenya are exempt from entry visas to the Democratic Republic of Congo,” read the note signed by Roland Kashwantale Chihoza, DRC’s Head of the Directorate General of Migration (DGM), DRC made the move 5 days after Kenya removed visa requirements for its citizens. DR Congo
KSh250,000 fine to Passaris for defying ODM on finance bill
Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris has been fined KSh250,000 for supporting the controversial Finance Bill that was opposed by his party, Orange Democratic Movement. Passaris was fined by the party’s National Executive Committee which found her guilty of defying the party’s stand. She is required to pay the fine in 2 months. The Raila Odinga-led party was opposed to the Finance Bill that sailed through in the National Assembly after lobbying by the ruling party. United Democratic Alliance that rallied other MPs to vote for it. ODM Chairman John Mbadi said Passaris is also required to issue a written apology
Application window for university and TVET student scholarships extended
The application window for Government scholarships by freshmen at universities and technical colleges, has been extended by a month, to 7 October, after a lower-than-expected number of students showed interest. Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, extended the window after it attracted just 60% or 156,532 students out of the 265,000 who were eligible for the scholarships. “The application period for loans,and scholarships that was initially scheduled to lapse on 7 September, 2023, has now been extended to 7 October, 2023,” Mr Machogu said on Wednesday. There have been concerns that many needy students are at risk of being locked out
The single paybill puts billions at risk of being stolen, Auditor General
Auditor General Nancy Gathungu has warned that President William Ruto’s directive to have one paybill account for all government payments raises the risk of billions being stolen due to weak controls. Ruto’s directive which started in July requires all state entities to channel all their collections including charges and fees through the 222222 paybill, as opposed to when each agency had a separate paybill collection. Treasury projects to collect about KSh350 billion from service fees and other charges in this financial year, which Gathungu now warns is at risk of being embezzled due to weak internal controls. “I have already
Ruto calls for review of loan rates for African countries
President William Ruto has asked multilateral banks to consider reviewing their terms in relation to loans lent to African countries. Speaking during the second day of the Africa Climate Summit, Ruto said that most African countries are in a debt crisis as their interest rates are too high. “This is the continent that has the highest potential; however, we are limited by high-interest rates for development capital. Many of our countries are already in debt distress,” said Ruto. He remarked that the biggest contributor to debt distress is high interest as Africa pays five times more than others. “This means,
Lobby group calls for balanced trade climate solutions
A pro-climate lobbying organization has urged African leaders to seize the opportunity provided by the current Africa Climate Summit to advance legislation that will help the continent’s economy become more resilient and it’s commerce more balanced. The summit presents an ideal opportunity for all stakeholders to get around the table and talk about African climate solutions, according to the lobby group operating under the banner of ONE Campaign. A framework for the Global Goal on Adaptation that is needs-based, includes targets and/or indicators, and removes barriers through multilateral development banks will be committed to by donor governments as part of
Counties urged to establish internal audit units in war on corruption
Pressure is mounting on county governments to establish working internal mechanisms to detect and prevent theft, wastage and other forms of loss of public funds, with the Auditor-General now joining in the call by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission. Auditor-General Nancy Gathungu said on Monday, her office has been raising concerns about the lack of internal audit units at the devolved units. One of the main loopholes through which public resources are lost. Her sentiments came within a week after the EACC directed counties to establish internal audits within sixty days. Accounting officers in counties will now be hard-pressed to
Maximum security at KICC ahead of the Africa Climate Summit
With foreign leaders due to arrive on Monday, the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, the main location of the Africa Climate Summit, has been secured by at least four thousand security personnel. The multi-agency security team will secure the arena and it’s surroundings, according to a statement made on Saturday by the Ministry of Interior and National Administration. Delegates will receive the necessary logistical support from the team prior to, during, and after the Summit. The squad is made up of members of the National Youth Service (NYS), the General Service Unit (GSU), the Kenya Defense Forces (KDF), and the General
Used cars imports hit with more taxes by KRA
The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has hit used car importers with a fresh round of tax increments after capping the maximum depreciation rate at 65% of the value of the vehicle from 70% previously. Pamela Ahago, the acting commissioner for the Customs and Border Control department, instructed the KRA staff to apply a new depreciation rate schedule for cars effective Friday. The directive will see taxes rise by more than 14% for vehicles manufactured in 2016, largely imported by dealers currently because of Kenya’s 8 year age limit for used cars. Lowering the maximum depreciation rate, which the taxman says
Chiloba defends Kassait in Worldcoin saga and blames regulatory lapses
Kenyans have been exposed to data abuse as a result of regulatory authorities’ oversights and the lack of a coordinated effort to rein in Tools for Humanity, the parent company of Worldcoin. Kenya’s Communication Authority (CA) claimed in it’s presentations to the National Assembly Adhoc Committee, looking into Worldcoin activities that competing regulatory powers among authorities made it difficult to coordinate a response. Ezra Chiloba, director general of CA, told lawmakers that although the Office of Data Commissioner is responsible for ensuring data privacy protection, implementation of consumer protection may have been hampered by legal snags. “I believe that the
Meteorologists issues El Niño rains warning for October and December
The Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning, about the likelihood of El Niño rainfall occurring in the country between October and December 2023. David Gikungu, the Director General of the Department, said during this period the country will experience heightened rainfall, as well as the potential for flooding and landslides in certain regions of the country. In light of the forecast, Gikungu emphasized the importance of proactive preparations by the relevant government agencies, to mitigate possible deaths and loss of property. “The short rains during the period will have both negative and positive impacts across various sectors hence there
Data commissioner Kassait on the spot for endorsing Worldcoin activities
The Office of Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) has come under fire for giving a certificate of registration outside of the law to Tools for Humanity, a business under which Worldcoin operated. The information was released by the State Law Office on Wednesday when Attorney General Justin Muturi testified before a National Assembly Adhoc committee looking into Worldcoin activity in Kenya. The Department of Justice informed parliamentarians that Worldcoin, doing business as Tools for Humanity, lacked the local business license needed by the Companies Act. “Worldcoin is not registered as a company for whatever purpose in Kenya. An application for registration
Army annuls elections and seizes power in Gabon
Army officers have appeared on national television in Gabon to say they have taken power. They said they were annulling the results of Saturday’s election, in which President Ali Bongo was declared the winner. Military officials later said that Mr Bongo had been placed under house arrest and one of his sons arrested for treason. His overthrow would end his family’s 53-year hold on power in Gabon. Gabon is one of Africa’s major oil producers, while nearly 90% of the country is covered by forests. It joined the Commonwealth in June 2022, becoming one of it’s few members not to
KPLC: 10-hour power blackouts to be experienced in seven counties
Kenya Power has announced a major outage that will affect 7 counties including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kiambu, Makueni, Murang’a, Nyeri and Kirinyaga. The scheduled power blackout will run for more than 10 hours, beginning 8am to 5pm on Wednesday, 30 August. Kenya Power attributed the blackout to scheduled maintenance work on the power grid, noting that it would be working to restore power as soon as possible. The planned blackout will affect a number of installations in Nairobi and the other areas including police stations, schools and businesses. In Nairobi, the scheduled power outage will affect Kayole, Saika, Maili Saba, Mwengenye,
Eldoret to be a city in 6 months
Eldoret town, the major business hub in the North Region, may become a city early in the next year, according to a Senate Committee. After a recent visit, the committee recommended the county of Uasin Gishu to improve its sewer infrastructure and requested the federal government to hasten the building of the Eldoret Eastern bypass. Critical facilities required for the town’s elevation to city status were inspected by the Senate Committee on Devolution. The committee, led by Senator Sheikh Abbas of Wajir, expressed confidence that Eldoret will meet the requirements for city status within the following 6 months. Eldoret would
PLO Lumumba shares 5 proposals in push to change constitution
PLO Lumumba, a prominent attorney and pan-Africanist, has stated plans to begin the process of revising the Constitution. The professor addressed the media on Sunday, the 13th anniversary of the 2010 Constitution’s promulgation. He brought up important points about the composition of the Executive, Devolution, and independent Constitutional Commissions. He urgued that the Executive created several posts that weren’t mentioned in the Constitution, so the laws needed to be changed to either recognize or invalidate them. “We are saying that on a day to be announced, we shall commence the process of collection of signatures, which are to be a
No evidence to link me to terrorism, woman tells court
A woman arraigned before Kahawa Law Court in a probe over alleged terrorism links on Wednesday , persuaded the court not to allow anti-terror police to hold her for 20 more days. While terming the investigations as a fishing expedition, Zuena Nakhumincha Machabe told magistrate Gideon Kiage, that legally in Tanzania the authorities cleared her. While those in Zambia at first failed to clear her owing to consent by the father of her 3 children, to show that he had accepted that she travels with them. To hold her further In her reply to the application by the prosecution, Zuena
New KRA Commissioner-General as Humphrey Wattanga is sworn in
Humphrey Wattanga Mulongo was on Thursday, 24 August, sworn in as Commissioner-General of the Kenya Revenue Authority. He took the oath of office at a ceremony presided over by Judiciary Chief Registrar Anne Amadi. Mulongo was appointed by Treasury Cabinet Secretary Prof Njuguna Ndung’u, in a gazette notice dated 22 August, 2023. He replaces Githii Mburu, who resigned in February 2023 after serving for 3 years and 7 months. Mburu’s exit came amid a shake-up that affected several heads of departments. KRA Board Chairman Antony Mwaura said Mburu left to pursue personal interests. Mulongo has a bachelor’s degree in Biochemical
Police roadblocks to be removed from 1 November
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, now says the roadblocks will be replaced with patrol security officers who will man the highways, after an uproar over escalating incidents of bribery at the roadblocks. “This is a presidential directive and honestly roadblocks are an old form of security and should only be mounted on the request of the security operators, with a specific agenda and once achieved should be dismounted,” Kindiki told the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security. The Interior CS was answering questions, when he appeared before the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security on Thursday, 24 August.
Electricity infrastructure vandalism put on notice
Detectives have intensified a crackdown on a syndicate responsible for vandalism of electricity infrastructure across the country. The infrastructure like transformers, cables, and electrical apparatus, have for a long time been targets to vandalism, leading to huge loses to the government and electricity consumers. In an operation that was conducted on 23 August, in a palatial home in Mutonguni, Machakos County, 5 sacks of vandalised aluminum wires were recovered. The raid was conducted by officers from the Crime Research & Intelligence Bureau, and investigators based at the Kenya Power & Lighting Company. Consequently, the owner of the house, Josphat Mutuku
Clarification on new university funding model demanded by MPs
The new university funding formula has continued to stir a debate among lawmakers , with Members of Parliament demanding it’s stopping, citing gaps in ensuring equity in access to education in the country. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, has directed Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah to seek a statement on the new funding model and to allay the anxiety among members which has ignited elicit reactions. Ichung’wah emphasized that there was need for more public awareness and public participation on the new funding model. Even though it’s aimed at ensuring the more vulnerable children benefit from the government loans and scholarship.
Amboseli national park to be managed by Kajiado county
The Kajiado County administration will now be in charge of overseeing and managing the Amboseli National Park, according to President William Ruto’s announcement. President Ruto stated that the county has proven beyond a shadow of a doubt that they have a passion for wildlife and the ability to care for the wildlife that is both a county and national asset during his speech during the Maasai Culture Week in Sekenani, Maasai Mara. “Former President Mwai Kibaki did acknowledge the efforts of conserving Maasai Mara Game reserve and issued an executive order for the Maasai Mara National Reserve to be under
Ababu Namwamba under siege over ministry mismanagement
Leaders have criticised Youth Affairs, Arts and Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba over his leadership at the ministry. National Assembly Deputy Speaker Gladys Shollei on Tuesday, 22 August, in an interview, said that the CS has failed to discharge his duties as required duty and does not seem bothered about the well-being of the athletes. Shollei revealed that she has on several occasions hosted a majority of athletes at her house in Kitisuru, Nairobi, where they shared their plight. “I have hosted them (athletes) for breakfast and lunch. They have told me about their challenges and horror stories of what
President to attend Maa cultural festival in Narok
Governors from the Maa community have redoubled their efforts to persuade President William Ruto to give the Kajiado County government Amboseli National Park back from the Kenya Wildlife Service. The governors of Kajiado, Joseph Ole Lenku, and Samburu, Jonathan Leleliit, Patrick Ole Ntutu, and Joseph Ole Lenku They made the comments on the opening day of the first-ever can also profit from the tourism industry’s earnings through money received from the National park.Maa culture week takes place in Narok County’s renowned Maasai Mara Game Reserve at Sekanani. Today’s event will be graced by President William Ruto. They claimed they will
Lobby groups take Ruto to court over single paybill number
A lobbying group has submitted a legal appeal to stop the government from using a single paybill number for all payments. President William Ruto issued State agencies a deadline of the end of September, to transition all government services to the e-Citizen online platform. This deadline was set a few weeks ago. Several different multiple paybill numbers are now utilized to pay for services. According to Dr. Ruto, the onboarding program aims to increase accountability by centralizing payment for government services under the paybill number 222222. Opposition to the plan has come from Operation Linda Ugatuzi, which claims that the
Tensions escalate along Kisumu-Kericho border as 3 die
Following a daring cattle rustling episode that generated animosity between 2 villages along the Kisumu-Kericho border, 3 people have died and numerous more are recovering from injuries. In Jimo East village, in Nyakach Sub-County, Kisumu, the assailants set a number of homes on fire while other victims died from arrow wounds. A Form 4 student from a nearby school who was attacked by the intruders, who also drove away cattle, is among those who have died. Witnesses said that, the heavily armed terrorists raided settlements in North Nyakach and attacked a number of homes. Older man Oyugi Owili, one of
Isaac Gitonga bags NCBA Golf series title in Kitale
Kitale Golf Club hosted the twelfth leg of the 2023 NCBA Golf Series yesterday, with the tournament attracting a turnout of eighty four golfers who battled for the tournament’s top honors. The golfers aimed to secure a chance to play at the tournament’s Grand Finale. With qualifiers emerging in the overall gross, men’s gross, women’s gross, juniors’ and men and women nett categories. At the end of the play, it was home player Isaac Gitonga who emerged as the overall winner with an impressive score of seventy gross. He fended off stiff competition from Phillip Shiharsy, who secured the top
KPLC CEO Joseph Siror on why electricity costs are high
Chief Executive Officer of Kenya Power Joseph Siror has provided insight into the technicalities behind the high cost of power. The country’s poor rainfall and low dam levels, Siror claimed in an interview with Spice FM on Tuesday, 15 August, have restricted the amount of power that can be dispatched from hydroelectric plants, which are the cheapest form of electricity. He made this declaration as the nation’s electricity prices reached an all-time high. According to the most recent statistics from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), the average cost of 50 kWh of power climbed from KSh796.83 in August
Tusker sign striker Erick Kapaito
Tusker FC has completed the signing of striker Eric Kapaito, who has penned a one-year contract with the brewers. Arriving as a free agent after the end of his contract with Ethiopian premier League side Arba Minch City. The 27-year-old put pen to paper on his contract at Ruaraka on Wednesday evening, and was officially introduced to his new teammates on Thursday, after which he had a light training session. “I am delighted to join Tusker because this is one of the biggest clubs in the country. When I had an opportunity to come back home and pick a team,
Kitale the next stop for NCBA Golf series
Kitale Club will this Saturday, 19 August play host to the ongoing NCBA Golf Series. This will be the twelfth event on the tournament’s calendar. At least one hundred golfers will tackle the par-seventy two course as they aim to qualify for the Tournament’s Grand Final to be held at the Sigona Golf Club in December. Speaking ahead of the tournament, NCBA Group Director John Gachora said, “We are delighted to be taking this series to Kitale County once again. Being the twelfth event in the series, this has been nothing but an amazing journey for us.” “This tournament has provided an
Malkia Strikers stroll to third victory in Yaounde
National women’s volleyball team Malkia Strikers, bagged another routine victory on Friday against neighbours Uganda, on day 3 of the ongoing CAVB African Nations Championship in Yaounde, Cameroon. Luizomar de Moura’s charges kept their clean sheet going, seeing off the Tonny Peter Lokany’s Uganda 3-0 (25-15, 25-16, 25-14) at the Mfandena Indoor gymnasium. The Kenyan technical bench handed the returning Sharon Chepchumba her first start in Yaounde, having been sidelined with an ankle injury in the opening match against Rwanda and used sparingly against debutants Burkina Faso on day two. As expected, Kenya went ahead 25-14 in a highly one-sided
Suppliers oppose new procurement levy
A plan to impose a tax on vendors who provide goods and services to the State has been met with opposition from vendors who claim it would equate to indirect taxation. The idea to having the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority train public and private organizations on public procurement was criticized on Thursday by the Association of Public Sector General Suppliers. “Granted the right to raise funds is key to sustainability of key government institutions, we as the association totally oppose this proposed levy,” said the lobby. This week, the National Treasury proposed the Public Procurement Capacity Building Levy, which would
‘Chumba’ returns as Malkia Strikers thrash Burkina Faso
Kenya’s Malkia Strikers showed their class as the top-ranked African women’s volleyball team with a 3-0 (25-10, 25-09, 25-10) drubbing of Burkina Faso, in a one-sided clash at the Palais Polyvalent des Sports arena in Yaounde, Cameroon on Thursday. For the first time in the championship and in his reign, coach Luizomar de Moura used all fourteen of his players in the match, including Sharon Chepchumba who is on the recovery trail, after suffering a slight injury scare a day to the competition. The tactician started with the same squad that did duty against Rwanda in the opener, albeit for
US, Canada reject Kenyan jeans over choking risk
Due to potential choking hazards, the US has recalled almost 100,000 pairs of kids’ trousers made in Kenya. On 10 August, 2023, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission issued the order, and The Children’s Place, the biggest retailer of children’s specialty clothing in North America, was required to comply by giving customers refunds. The metal snaps of the jeans may come apart, creating a choking risk to youngsters, according to the recall information posted on the commission’s website. “Consumers should immediately take the recalled jeans away from children and return the jeans to any The Children’s Place store for a
Senator Mandago and three others to be arrested
As a result of the KSh1.1 billion Finland Education Programme scandal, a court in Nakuru has ordered the arrest and detention of Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago and 3 other county officials. The others are Joshua Lelei, Meshack Rono, the County Education Revolving Fund’s Deputy Director and Trustee, Joseph Maritim, the recently retired Chief Officer of Youth and Sports, and Meshack Rono. The orders were given by Nakuru Senior Principal Magistrate Peter Ndege in response to a request by Senior Assistant Director of Public Prosecution (ODPP) Hassan Abdi. While speaking to the court on behalf of Abdi, prosecutor Angeline Chinga
Worldcoin stopped from collecting data from Kenyans
In order to prevent the Data Protection Commissioner’s office from collecting data on Kenyans, the High Court has prohibited cryptocurrency company Worldcoin from doing so. In addition, Justice Prof. Nixon Sifuna ordered Worldcoin to hold onto the data it obtained from Kenyans between 19 April and 8 August while the State agency conducted it’s inquiry. The office of the Data Commissioner filed a lawsuit in order to have Worldcoin’s data preserved, claiming that it is concerned that the company’s agents are storing personal data in their database at risk of loss, modification, deletion, transfer, or further processing that would violate
Varane gives nervy Man Utd win against lively Wolves
Raphael Varane scored the winner 14 minutes from time as Manchester United gained a fortunate win against Wolves in their opening game of the new Premier League season. Erik ten Hag’s side hardly created a chance of note until Bruno Fernandes found Aaron Wan-Bissaka with a superb pass inside the area. The right-back calmly lifted the bouncing ball to the edge of the 6-yard box, where Varane used his height to get above Nelson Semedo and head home. It was extremely harsh on Wolves, who made light of last week’s change of manager to produce a superb performance in Gary
U-turn from the government as fuel subsidies are reinstated
In a dramatic U-turn, the government restored fuel subsidies on Monday in an effort to protect customers from increasing pump prices in response to the arrival of a cheaper shipment last week that alarmed oil marketers. After reinstating the subsidies that would have caused pump prices to surpass KSh200, the Energy regulator decided to maintain the fuel prices at their current levels. “In order to cushion consumers from the spike in pump prices as a consequence of the increased landed costs, the government has opted to stabilise pump prices for the August-September pricing cycle,” the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority
CBK allows Safcom to raise M-Pesa transaction limit
After Safaricom announced a revised ceiling for mobile money transactions on Monday, Kenyans will now have larger transaction limits. The company announced that, with the Central Bank of Kenya’s clearance, the ceiling would be raised from the existing KSh300,000 to KSh500,000. This enhanced account limit will become effective for all Safaricom users on Tuesday, August 15, as stated in the release. “The increased account limits will provide customers and especially small businesses with increased convenience as the share of cashless transactions continues to rise,” Safaricom CEO, Peter Ndegwa said in a statement. The telecom noted that although Kenyans will be
Government unveils Maisha Namba after signing deal with UNDP
The Kenyan government has unveiled a new name for the upcoming rollout of the Unique Personal Identifier (UPI) scheduled for 2 October, 2023. While signing a memorandum of understanding between the Kenyan government and the United Nations Development Programme, Immigration PS Julius Bitok noted that the UPI will henceforth be referred to as Maisha Namba. He noted that the deal will support the development and rollout of Digital Identity in Kenya and will be anchored on resource mobilisation, technical advisory and project monitoring. The Maisha Namba, he stated, will be integral to the Kenyan Digital ID. A source from the
Transfer of High Court judge Mugure Thande raises eyebrows
A transfer policy for judges developed a few years ago, requires that one should not be moved from a station until he or she has served there for at least 3 years. The judge being transferred is to be notified at least 3 months to allow him or her to conclude part-heard matters and also not inconvenience litigants. Justice Martha Koome has been using the policy to routinely effect transfers since her appointment as the country’s third Chief Justice after the promulgation of the new Constitution. Last week, Justice Koome, who is also the president of the Supreme Court, transferred
Total ban for Kenya in all swimming competitions
After Kenya Swimming Federation (KSF) failed to organize elections as originally planned, World Aquatics, the organization that governs swimming and other aquatic sports worldwide, completely barred Kenya from competing in international competitions. After multiple attempts to select new leaders had failed, the governing body had given the federation until 8 July, to hold an election or face being excluded from international gatherings. Since 2014, KFS has not held elections because of disputes among the present executives, including those involving the election’s format. Kenya was initially suspended, with swimmers permitted to compete in international competitions individually but prohibited from flying the
New University funding model allocated KSh19.6B by the Government
The University Fund has made loans and scholarships available to 130,485 students enrolled in public universities, while 9,662 of the 140,107 students admitted to universities will receive loans. The government has made KSh 19.6 billion available for the financing institution in the new funding model for the new cohort of students enrolling in Universities and Technical and vocational education and training (Tvet) institutions. Geoffrey Monari, the chief executive officer of University Fund, drew attention to the fact that, for the current fiscal year, the budget estimate is higher than the number of students enrolled in the KUCCPS‘s centralized system. “There
Caicedo: Chelsea agree £115m deal for midfielder
Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo for a British record fee of £115m. The midfielder will sign an eight-year contract, with the option of a further year. Liverpool had agreed a £111m deal for the 21-year-old Ecuador player on Friday, but the move fell through. But Caicedo’s preference was Chelsea and they have finally succeeded with a bid after having a succession of proposals rejected by Brighton this summer. The fee means Chelsea will break the British record twice in 2023, following the £107m purchase in January of Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez. Caicedo, who was
Former banker detained in probe over terror links
A Nairobi court has authorized the Anti-Terrorism Police Unit to detain a banker as part of an inquiry into potential ties to terrorism. ATPU was given fourteen days by Kahawa Law Court Magistrate Gideon Kiage to look into allegations against Zuena Nakhumicha Machabe of aiding and abetting terrorism. According to reports, Machabe was a prominent banker in Kenya until allegedly joining the terrorism scene in 2021. Prior to leaving her position with tier two banks in the middle of 2021 and reportedly joining a terrorist organization linked to Daesh or the Islamic State in Puntland, Somalia, as a logistician, the
Olaf Grothey wins the 11th leg of NCBA golf series
The par-71 Nyali Golf & Country Club played host to the eleventh leg of the 2023 NCBA Golf Series on Saturday, attracting a remarkable assembly of 180 golfers, including 6 juniors, who converged to compete for the top honors. Home player Olaf Grothey, playing off handicap 3, carded an impressive round of 72 gross to claim overall title of the tournament. He finished the day four points better than fellow club mate, Mohdhar Abubakar. Playing off handicap 6, who carded a round of 76 gross to claim the winner’s position in the men’s category, ahead of handicap 10 Jimmy Kingori who
Saka strike helps Arsenal win over Forest
Bukayo Saka’s superb first-half strike helped Arsenal begin their Premier League campaign with a 2-1 win over Nottingham Forest on the opening weekend. The 21-year-old England forward added to Eddie Nketiah’s 26th minute opener with a curling effort from outside the area that nestled itself into the top left corner of the Forest net, well past the reach of former Gunners keeper Matt Turner. But last season’s Premier League runners-up had to survive a late charge by Forest after substitute Taiwo Awoniyi clawed a goal back in the 83rd minute. The game had been delayed by 30 minutes because of
Bayern lose to RB Leipzig as Kane makes debut
England captain Harry Kane made his Bayern Munich debut as they lost 3-0 to RB Leipzig in the German Super Cup. Only hours after completing his £86m move from Tottenham on Saturday, the striker came on as 64th-minute substitute to a huge cheer at the Allianz Arena. He had only three touches and made little impact. Dani Olmo scored a hat-trick for Leipzig to deny 30-year-old Kane the first trophy of his career. Olmo’s first goal was into the bottom corner after a cross was not cleared. His second was brilliant, spinning Matthijs de Ligt before slotting through Sven Ulreich’s
KSh210B will be required to finance new student-centred model: Helb CEO
At least KSh210 billion will be required for university financing by 2028 under the new student-centred model. Higher Education Loans Board, Chief Executive Officer, Charles Ringera ,has said that the loan component will require at least KSh145 billion while scholarship will need at least KSh75 billion. “Small simulation numbers that we have done show that by 2028 through this model, university financing will require KSh145 billion from loans only. Scholarships will be looking at another around KSh75 billion so we are talking about KSh210 billion as the amount that will be required,” Ringera said in a media session on university
Paris St-Germain sign Dembele for £43.5m
Paris St-Germain have signed France forward Ousmane Dembele from Barcelona for £43.5m (50.4m euros). Dembele, 26, joined Barcelona from Borussia Dortmund for £135m in 2017 and scored 40 goals in 185 games, winning three La Liga titles. The 2018 World Cup winner has signed a five-year contract with the Ligue 1 champions. “I am very happy to join Paris St-Germain and can’t wait to play in my new colours,” said Dembele. “I hope I can continue to grow here and make all the club’s fans proud.” Dembele, who also won the Copa del Rey twice, signed a new two-year contract
KeBS mark of quality not guarantee of quality
Chances could be high that the goods you buy from the supermarkets and other outlets are of substandard quality. This is after Kenya Bureau of Standards confirmed before a parliamentary committee that it does not undertake tests on goods sold locally to ascertain their suitability. The fears of consuming substandard goods appeared to be confirmed during a session of the Public Accounts Committee of the National Assembly on Thursday, when KeBS acting Managing Director Ms Esther Ngari said that KeBS relies on the trust of manufacturers to produce goods that are quality. Ms Ngari had been summoned by PAC chaired
St. Anthony beat Shanderema to book the final with Dagoretti
The solidarity boys knocked out Shanderema High school by a solitary goal. The match pitting the two soccer giants was well attended by over thirty thousand fans supporting their teams. The well balanced match was full of skillful talents with almost equal chances to score, but goalkeepers from both teams proved hard to beat. Though Shanderema continued with their push to equalize, their efforts were fruitless with most of the chances missed. St. Anthony’s tough talking coach Peter Mayoyo praised his boys for the performance in today’s match despite some few players previously injured. “I have some players with injuries
NCBA opens a new branch in Eastleigh
National Commercial Bank of Africa has announced it’s newest branch in the vibrant Eastleigh neighbourhood, at the newly opened Business Bay Square Mall to tap into the thriving business community in the area. This development underscores NCBA’s drive to grow it’s retail banking, with a target of 10 branches at the end of 2023. Hon. Yusuf Hassan, MP Kamukunji, commended NCBA’s initiative, highlighting it’s potential to amplify economic prospects in the area and Kamukunji Constituency at large. He emphasized the key role of financial inclusivity in fostering equitable economic expansion and prosperity. This follows the successful launch of NCBA’s Kahawa
Morticians want Koome proof of ‘hired dead bodies’
The Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome has been requested by the Morticians and Allied Professionals Association of Kenya (MAPAKe) to supply the names of the people and locations allegedly responsible for hiring dead bodies during the anti-government protests. On Tuesday, 8 August, Koome made the allegations, claiming that opposition party members had conspired with morgue staff to hire dead bodies before later claiming that police had killed them. In a statement released on Friday, 11 August, MAPAKe Chairperson Elkana Mwinami denounced Koome’s remarks, claiming they were damaging the institution’s well-deserved reputation. “We demand the Inspector General to furnish both
Land rates review to tap extra KSh8 billion
Following approval of the Ministry of Lands’ request for a review in an effort to raise an additional KSh8 billion by the Treasury, land prices in Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, Kisumu, Eldoret, and Kiambu are expected to increase. The government receives KSh3 billion annually in land rent and rates, which last underwent an evaluation decades ago, according to Lands Principal Secretary Nixon Korir, who spoke before Parliament. Kenya uses the Rating Act of 1963 and the Valuation for Rating Act of 1956, which have denied counties billions of shillings in funding as real estate prices increased. Due to rising demand, prices
NCBA Golf Series heads to Nyali for 11th leg
The coastal city of Mombasa is set to play host to the eleventh leg of the National Commercial Bank of Africa Golf Series this Saturday, 12 August. Over 180 golfers are set to congregate at the par-72 Nyali Golf & Country Club, looking to battle it out for top honors of the tournament. The golfers will be competing for their chance to secure a spot to play in the tournament’s finals, with winners emerging in the overall gross, men’s category winner, men’s runner up, ladies’ winner, ladies’ runner up and juniors’ categories. Also up for grabs at the tournament will
Wage bill to hit KSh1.1 trillion after salaries review
Following the most recent salary review, the total compensation for government workers will increase to KSh1.17 trillion in the current fiscal year. Following public participation in a review in which MPs were among the largest beneficiaries, the Salaries and Remuneration Commission increased the remuneration of State personnel by KSh21.7 billion. The review will result in a 2% increase in the wage bill, pushing it past the KSh1.17 trillion threshold. “This pay review is about the harmonisation of pay to get some sense of equity and fairness in pay. It’s not about just increasing pay. We still had to give a
KWS plan to triple park entry fees from January
The Kenya Wildlife Service is planning to more than triple park entry fees to KSh2,000 from January 2024 in a move that will see tourists dig deeper into their pockets. A schedule of fees currently out for public participation shows the highest entry amount will be at parks such as Nairobi National Park, which is frequented by visitors within the city. The East African Community and resident adults will pay KSh2,000 during the high season which starts from July to March to visit the park, up from KSh430. Adults from the rest of Africa, as well as those from international
West Ham agree deals for Maguire, Ward-Prowse
West Ham United have agreed deals for Manchester United’s Harry Maguire and Southampton’s James Ward-Prowse worth about £60m in total. Each deal is thought to be worth in the region of £30m. Maguire, 30, struggled for first-team opportunities at Old Trafford last season and has been stripped of the captaincy this season. He joined United in August 2019 for a world record £80m for a defender. He is understood to be keen on the move with personal terms yet to be agreed but not expected to be a problem. West Ham have been trying to sign Ward-Prowse for much of
Uganda funding suspended by World Bank over LGBTQ law
Due to Uganda’s adoption of the contentious Anti-Homosexuality Act, the World Bank has temporarily halted its approval of public financing in that country. The Washington-based lender announced on 8 August that it will pause the financing while it reviews the steps taken to protect sexual and gender minorities from discrimination. According to the World Bank, Uganda had transgressed its moral principles of eliminating poverty without prejudice. “The World Bank Group’s values are fundamentally at odds with Uganda’s Anti-Homosexuality Act.” The World Bank declared, “We think that our ambition to eradicate poverty on a livable planet can only succeed if it
Shanderema beat Khorof Harar in KSSSA opener
Western region soccer champions, Shanderema Boys’ High School, kicked off the National Championship games on a high note. They defeated the Northeastern champions Khorof Harar eight goals to nil at a match played in Kakamega’s Bukhungu Stadium. Striker Maxwell Wamalwa inspired Shanderema boys’ with his hat-trick, while Nixon Mutimi scored a brace in front of the over ten thousand fans who turned up to cheer them up in the stadium. Kelly Madada opened the scoring in the early minutes of the first half, while other goals were scored by Elvis Omondi and substitute Collins Kati in the second half. The
Leaders in perpetual campaign mode months after elections
The election fever has persisted a full year after Kenyans cast their ballots in the general election. Leaders continue to dispense strong doses of politics from the sunroofs of their cars to podiums. Just 12 months later, the nation feels as though there will soon be another election. As a candidate in the last stretch of their campaign, President William Ruto has spent the last several days in the Mt. Kenya region, speaking at numerous events. Along with that, he also holds weekly church services where the sermon for the day is nearly completely replaced by political discourse. Although the
Koome: Azimio hired dead bodies during demos
Japheth Koome, the inspector general of police, has justified how police personnel behaved during the anti-government demonstrations protesting about the high cost of living. The IG charged that the opposition conspired with morgue staff to hire corpses in order to damage the “good reputation of the National Police Service” during the demonstrations. Following accusations that police had fired live ammunition at protestors to disperse them, Koome said that his officers had not contributed to the violence that had been witnessed throughout the demonstrations. On Tuesday, 8 August, Koome addressed the media at the Kiganjo Police College and claimed that the
Christie Sevens: KBL gives KSh2M boost for rugby tourney
Preparations for the 56th edition of the annual Christie Sevens rugby tournament are underway, with organizers expressing confidence of a successful tournament. The tournament which is hosted by Kenya Harlequin is the fourth of six tournaments in the 2023 National Sevens Circuit and is set to be held this weekend. Speaking during a media briefing at RFUEA Grounds today, the Tournament’s Director Nekesa Were said; “We are very excited to be hosting the oldest Sevens Tournament as it reaches its 56th edition. Rugby is a sport that combines strength, strategy and sportsmanship and we strive to provide an excellent platform for teams
Epra boss date with the court over fuel taxes
Daniel Kiptoo, the director-general of the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, has been called to testify about why he defied a court order that barred the implementation of the Finance Act 2023 and raised petrol prices. As they heard petitions contesting the Act’s provisions on Monday, three High Court judges ordered Mr. Kiptoo to appear before them on September 13 as requested by Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah. Mr. Omtatah has charged the CEO of Epra with violating the court’s decision by altering fuel prices in accordance with the Finance Act of 2023. The summons was issued by Justices David Majanja,
Kenyan shilling at KSh150 against the dollar
The Kenyan shilling has, in one of the costliest freefalls in history, lost its value trading against the US dollar by nearly half in under 50 months, making consumers pay dearly for imported goods. Several commercial banks are already selling US dollars above the KSh150 mark in Nairobi, piling pressure on the Kenyan shilling while setting up consumers for a new wave of currency-driven price increases across imported products including fertiliser, electronics and cars. A spot check on Monday afternoon showed the exchange rate to the dollar at I&M and Sidian Bank had breached the KSh150 mark as the country
Understanding new higher education financial model
The presidential working party on Education Reforms was constituted at the end of November 2022. Part of its mandate was to give recommendations on funding at higher learning institutions to salvage financial muddles experienced at Kenyan universities. Part of its recommendation in February was a meeting with university vice-chancellors, president and other stakeholders that took place in early May 2023 and proposed the following funding model to be implemented in September 2023 beginning with 2022 KCSE candidates. Universities and TVETS will no longer receive block funding in the form of capitation based on a Differentiated Unit Cost. Funding to students
Vitisia shine at 10th leg of 2023 NCBA series
The tenth leg of the 2023 NCBA Golf Series took place at Muthaiga Golf Club on Saturday, 5th August, attracting 250 golfers in a highly competitive event. The golfers battled it out for a chance to secure slots in the tournament’s Grand Finale. The day witnessed remarkable performances across various categories, with Evans Vitisia claiming the Overall Gross Winner title with a remarkable score of 73 gross. In the Men’s Gross category, handicap 2 golfer Kavit Bhakoo secured the top spot with 74 gross, beating Ben Murimi, playing off handicap 6, on countback. Nancy Ndungu, playing off handicap 7, emerged as
Big fish versus small fish Twitter debate
The arrest of the Officer-in-Charge of Zimmerman Police post in Kasarani by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has become a subject of serious debate online following a Tweet by the EACC drew a negative response from controversial lawyer Ahmednassir Abdullahi. ARREST OF THE OFFICER-IN-CHARGE OF ZIMMERMAN POLICE POST IN KASARANI DIVISION TO FACE GRAFT CHARGESThe Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) on Thursday arrested the Officer-in-Charge of Zimmerman Police Post in Kasarani Division, Inspector of Police Susan Wambui… pic.twitter.com/NOzndtiHaj — EACC (@EACCKenya) July 28, 2023 In response to the EACC Tweet, Ahmednassir, a Senior Counsel member of the bar, rubbished the
Lake region bloc abandons KSh2.8b bank plan nine years later
The Lake Region Economic Bloc has abandoned ambitions to create a multibillion-dollar bank after encountering numerous implementation challenges. One of the bloc’s main projects for 2014 was the idea for the creation of a Ksh2.8 billion bank. Members of the bloc include the counties of Kakamega, Siaya, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Bomet, Kericho, Nandi, Busia, Bungoma, Vihiga, and Trans Nzoia. But because of reservations voiced by the Office of the Controller of Budget over the bank concept, the bloc has now turned its focus to the development of a cooperative society. The COB informed the bloc that it would
Ndindi Nyoro widens KPLC stake with KSh48m shares
Ndindi Nyoro, a lawmaker, has increased his ownership of Kenya Power by purchasing an extra 5.2 million shares, further solidifying his position as the company’s largest individual stakeholder. According to regulatory documents, Mr. Nyoro increased his interest in the company from 27.29 million shares at the end of June 2022 to 32.5 million shares at the end of June 2023, or roughly 1.67% of the utility. His present stake in the failing utility is about Ksh48.75 million, and the additional purchases made in the fiscal year that ended in June were around Ksh7.92 million in value. Kenya Power shares closed
Trump pleads not guilty to election charges
In a court in Washington, DC, former US President Donald Trump entered a not guilty plea to a charge of planning to rig the 2020 election. He spoke gently during the brief arraignment to reaffirm his not-guilty plea, identity, and age, as well as the fact that he was not under the influence of any drugs. Later, he told reporters that the case involved the “persecution of a political opponent”. This is the former president’s third court appearance as a defendant in four months. On Thursday afternoon, Mr. Trump entered the courthouse through a back entrance in the heart of
James Mwangi appointed virtual varsity chancellor
The CEO of Equity Bank, James Mwangi, has been named by President William Ruto as the first chancellor of Kenya’s fully accredited online university, the Open University of Kenya (OUK). The appointment was made just a few days after Dr. Mwangi’s two five-year stints as chancellor of Meru University came to an end on 20 July. The information was revealed on Thursday at the university’s chartering event, which was attended by Ruto. “Dr. Ruto, I want to thank you for providing me the chance to lead this brand-new institution as its first chancellor,” said Mwangi. “I am honored that you
Finance Act: Bench set to give further directions
Next Monday, a High Court bench of three judges will convene to provide guidance on the hearing of the disputed Finance Act, 2023 case. The parties were told to come before the bench of Justices David Majanja, Christine Meoli, and Lawrence Mugambi on 7 August to receive instructions. After Justice Mugure Thande certified that the nine petitions established meaningful legal issues, Chief Justice Martha Koome chose the judges. The judge had also prevented Treasury Chief Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u from putting the Act into effect, but on 28 July, the Court of Appeal removed the freeze, allowing the government to begin
Kindiki halts WorldCoin as Capital Markets issues fraud warning
The government has halted operations for the cryptocurrency project WorldCoin until investigations into the security of the data being collected are concluded. In a statement on Wednesday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki said the measure would continue until assurances of the security and reliability of financial transactions were given. The statement reads, “Until relevant public agencies certify the absence of any risks to the general public whatsoever, the government has suspended forthwith activities of World Coin and any other entity that may be similarly engaging the people of Kenya.” Any natural or legal person who promotes, assists, abets, engages in,
Murder suspect released on Ksh5m cash bail
Evans Kamau the main suspect in the murder of his 34 year old wife Esther Njigi has been granted a cash Bail. A three judge bench of the appellate court has ordered that Kamau pay of a cash bail of Ksh 5 million or a bond of ksh 10 million or and two sureties of a similar amount. Kamau is accused of stabbing his wife Esther Njigi 17 times in August of 2021 at their home in Elmark Estate in Juja subcounty, Kiambu county. Through his lawyer, Kamau argued that the trial court had no firm basis for denying him
Kenya among nations with suffering suppliers in Africa
Given how long it takes to receive payment for provided goods, Kenya is one of the continent’s most difficult countries for suppliers. Over 80% of Kenyan businesses take longer than a day to process invoices, and it might take some enterprises over a year to receive payment, according to a recent analysis by Duplo, an African payments platform. Only 19.7% of Kenyan businesses process invoices within 24 hours, and 57% of them take up to a week to get them ready for payment, according to the most recent Duplo report, “Exploring The State of B2B Payments in Africa.” This emphasizes
KUCCPS releases varsities, colleges placement report
The Kenya Universities and colleges Central Placement Services (KUCCPS) have released the much awaited placement results for candidates of KCSE 2022. The results have been released by Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, who said a total of 285,698 students submitted applications for placement to Universities and Colleges. According CS Machogu, 870,561 students were eligible for placement to Universities and colleges, but out of that number only 285,698 students submitted their applications. A total of 285,167 students have been placed to pursue degree and TVET courses. The students placed to pursue degree courses are 140,107 and for TVET courses ,145,060 students.
Court of Appeal lifts orders on Finance Act 2023
After Treasury CS Prof. Njuguna Ndung’u claimed that the government loses half a billion shillings per day as a result of the freeze, the Court of Appeal removed an order made last month blocking the execution of the Finance Act 2023. A three-judge panel of the appellate court lifted the June 30 suspension while awaiting the outcome of Prof. Ndung’u’s appeal. Through Attorney General Justin Muturi, the CS filed a petition with the appellate court, claiming that the government will lose about Ksh211 billion during the current fiscal year. If the government is not permitted to increase money as suggested
Uhuru joins Raila in prayers for victims
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta participated in interdenominational prayers in Nairobi alongside Azimio leader Raila Odinga, Kalonzo musyoka and other leaders. Originally, the prayers were supposed to take place at De Paul Grounds in Karen, but the location was altered a few hours later. The mass honoring those killed during the anti-government protests will now take place today at the Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka (SKM) Command Center in Karen, Nairobi. The Raila Odinga-led coalition issued a statement yesterday calling for somber interdenominational prayers to be held at specific locations for all of their supporters across the nation. “Azimio gives these prayers, which
Relief as cooking gas prices drop after tax cuts
For the first time since July, the price of a 13-kg cylinder of cooking gas has fallen below Ksh3,000 after the State eliminated three tariffs on the product that are currently the subject of a legal dispute. Cooking gas is no longer subject to the 8.0% Value Added Tax (VAT), the 3.5% Import Declaration Fees, or the 2.0% Railway Development Levy thanks to the Finance Act, which was passed by President William Ruto’s government. The taxes go against the court decision suspending the Finance Act of 2023 from last month. According to Daniel Kiptoo, director-general of the Energy Petroleum Regulatory
Man Utd confident of signing Hojlund before season starts
Rasmus Hojlund is expected to leave Atalanta for Manchester United before the start of their season against Wolves on August 14. The Manchester club does not want to spend more than £60 million on the 20-year-old striker, but it is widely believed that he will sign with them within the next two and a half weeks. It is also believed that they do not need to sell any players in order to get the money needed. Erik ten Hag was questioned about H0jlund following Wednesday’s 2-0 loss in a friendly match against Real Madrid at Houston’s NRG Stadium. The manager
Safaricom unveils Faraja M-Pesa loans
The zero-interest credit program for purchases of items up to Ksh100,000 has now been made available by Safaricom after being initially prohibited by the financial regulator. The credit service, Faraja, is anticipated to shake up the market for mobile loans, which has been dominated by products like Fuliza, an M-Pesa-based mobile overdraft service. More than 32 million Safaricom subscribers will be able to use the service to make credit-based purchases from merchants using the telco’s Lipa Na M-pesa system. Customers would be able to make purchases between Ksh20 and Ksh100,000 with no interest rates and finish the payment within 30
Disrupted Government services after being hacked
Variety of services provided by the government and the telecoms company Safaricom are temporarily unavailable. Several Safaricom and Mpesa application services, including Lipa na Mpesa, Mshwari, Bank to Mpesa, and the Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) USSD code used for payment of power tokens, were affected, according to a spot check on Thursday afternoon, July 27. Earlier on Thursday, a KPLC client who attempted to make a payment received the following response: “Transaction failed, M-PESA could not complete payment of Ksh2000.00 to KPLC PREPAID. Please try again later as the organization’s system experiencing technical difficulties.” Customers’ complaints about being
Owalo confirms eCitizen was hacked
Eliud Owalo, the cabinet secretary for information, communication and the digital economy, has verified that the eCitizen platform was actually compromised. On Thursday, July 27, Owalo indicated that the online platform had recently been hacked and that they are working to resolve the situation. He claimed that the hackers first slowed down the system before attempting to break in but failed. “Yes, the eCitizen platform was compromised, we are working to fix it. By sending the system more unusual queries, they attempted to jam it. However, neither data nor access to it has occurred,” according to Owalo. CS OWALO: There
Banks to access secret State database in money laundering fight
Financial institutions will soon be given access to a State database on covert owners of firms, enabling them to quickly identify and report transactions involving individuals who are abusing the anti-money laundering statute by employing proxies, acquaintances, and family. This is a component of the anti-money laundering law revisions that are currently making their way to Parliament and which aim to lift the blinders that have hampered the efforts of banks to flag questionable transactions. According to a source from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, the amendment will fundamentally alter how the nation combats money laundering. “Access
NHIF pays five times more for drugs
The Amal and Beirut hospitals in Eastleigh were found to have committed fraud as a result of investigations by the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) into how medical facilities preyed on the elderly to earn millions of shillings. Afya Bora Hospital, Afya Bora Hospital Annex, Jekim Hospital Nkubu Ltd, Jekim Medical Center, Joy Nursing and Maternity Eastleigh, and St Peter’s Orthopaedics and Surgical Specialty are among the hospitals that have been stopped and are the subject of investigations, according to Samson Kuhora, the interim CEO of the NHIF. “According to media reports, there was fraud in regards to the members
KRA raises tax on employee benefits
Workers have suffered a setback as a result of the Kenya Revenue Authority boosting the tax rate assessed to firms providing employee benefits. Due to the current high market interest rates, the taxman adjusted the fringe benefits tax to 11% for the upcoming three months until September—the second increase since the April–June timeframe. “The market interest rate is 11% for the purposes of Section 12B of the Income Tax Act, this rate will be valid for the three months of July, August, and September 2023.” According to KRA Employers are responsible for paying the levy on specific benefits provided to
EAC currencies gain against dominant Kenyan shilling
In less than a year, the Kenyan shilling has lost about 20% of its value relative to regional currencies, diminishing its dominance in the area and hurting importers of products from Tanzania and Uganda. When compared to mid-July of last year, the value of the Kenyan currency is currently 19.7% lower against the Uganda shilling, while its value against the Tanzania shilling and the Rwandese franc has decreased by 12.1% and 4.4%, respectively. According to data from the Central Bank of Kenya, at the start of trade last Friday, one Kenyan shilling was selling for an average of USh25.80, Tsh17.30,
Man Utd unwilling to pay Atalanta over £60m for Rasmus Højlund
If Atalanta demand more than £60 million for Rasmus Hjlund, Manchester United will lose interest in the center-forward. Randal Kolo Muani of Eintracht Frankfurt is also a player that Erik ten Hag is seriously considering. The 20-year-old Hjlund is the forward the United manager is interested in signing. Atalanta are rumored to seek a minimum of £70m for the Denmark international, despite the fact that he has only played one season of Serie A and is unproven in the Premier League. United is unwilling to pay this price. A different option is 24-year-old French attacker Kolo Muani, who Ten Hag
Azimio suspends Wednesday protests, calls for vigils to honor ‘martyrs’
Azimio la Umoja have called off Wednesday this week’s protests, instead calling on Kenyans to hold countrywide vigils to remember those who died during the anti-government protests that got underway in March. Amnesty International, a non-governmental organization, has denounced the use of unlawful force against protestors and claims that since the protests began in March 2023, at least 30 people have been killed by police. “We are calling Kenyans to come out and lay light candles and lay flowers in remembrance of and respect of the victims,” read the statement. “During the vigils, candle lighting and laying of flowers, we
How diseases killing Kenyans have changed in 60 years
Sixty years after Independence, Kenyans still find themselves in hospitals for diseases that were killing in the 1960s, including pneumonia, diarrhoea, cholera, malaria, and the neglected tropical diseases. Kenya is also experiencing an increase in the burden of diseases that were in the past labelled Western ailments, including diabetes, stroke, high blood pressure and cancer, anxiety, depression and heart disease. The World Health Organisation estimates that in the next four years, countries will suffer more from these new illnesses than traditional diseases. But thanks to a better healthcare system than what was there at Independence, life expectancy has significantly improved.
Placement agency takes over KMTC admission after nine-year battle
The dispute over where to place medical students in certificate and diploma colleges has been settled after almost ten years of turf warfare, sibling rivalry, and court fights between two government departments. All students may now apply through the national central placement agency if they intend to pursue medical studies at any of the Kenya Medical Training College facilities. Dr. Mercy Wahome, the chief executive of Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service, said that the portal would launch on 22 July, 2023. The submissions must be done by 4 August, 2023. “This is a milestone because KMTC and KUCCPS
Kindiki: 23 firearms recovered in raids on three homes in Karen
During a police raid on three homes in Karen, Nairobi, on Friday, 23 guns, according to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, were found. In a statement, the CS stated that they believe those living in the homes that were raided are providing the guns used in the most recent anti-government demonstrations. “According to security intelligence, some of the items, including rifles and other simple weapons, have been used to incite violence during violent demonstrations. We think they are supplied by a big network of recognized criminal gang leaders and civilian gun owners,” said Kindiki. “Today afternoon, an operation has been
Protests have cost businesses Ksh2.8 billion KMA says
In a statement to the media on July 21, association chairperson Rajan Shah stated that the 14 sectors they represent have collectively suffered approximative losses. “Therefore, if the protests continue to disrupt companies as we have seen in the past two weeks, the government could lose up to Ksh2.86 billion every day,” according to Rajan Shah. The manufacturing sector provides at most Ksh1 trillion to the national economy, according to the Economic Survey 2023. According to the Association, it results in a daily value addition of about Ksh2.86 billion shillings. Shah added that the disruption to the chain and logistics
Elon Musk satellite data firm enters Kenya market
With a pledge to provide download speeds of up to 250 Mbps and upload rates of up to 35 Mbps, the multinational, which is a spinoff of Elon Musk‘s space technology company SpaceX, has also named local internet company Karibu Connect as its first authorized reseller in Kenya. According to a notice posted on Starlink’s website, buying a terminal to enable connections will set Kenyan home users back Ksh89,000 plus a Ksh3,100 delivery fee, while the monthly membership rate will be Ksh6,500. While the monthly subscription fee has been set at Ksh13,572 for commercial use, the hardware purchase will cost
Nairobi deserted shops closed
Even after the government prohibited the protests organized by opposition leader Raila Odinga, the third to take place this month, shops remained closed and there were intense security patrols across the city as well as adjacent towns including Kisumu, Nakuru, Mombasa, and Kisii, among others. On Wednesday of last week, when protestors disobeyed a government ban and marched on, there were violent skirmishes that left nine people dead in various regions of the nation. Similar protests the week before claimed the lives of six additional people. More demonstrations against the high cost of living brought on by the Finance Act
Schools to lose 20hrs of learning to demos
Learning time will be lost by students in primary school for 14 hours and in secondary school for roughly 20hours. Additionally, since it has been revealed that the Azimio coalition’s planned protests would begin today, protesters have been warned to stay away from educational facilities. Kahi Indimuli, chairman of the Kenya School Heads of Association, warned that students stand to lose more if protests are not put an end to and called for talks between the government and opposition. He also urged the police to use patience when dealing with demonstrators and stop using tear gas inside of buildings. “The
Treasury CS appeals the order of blocking Finance Act
On June 30, the High Court halted the Treasury from putting the Act into effect, warning that if the petitions opposing the Act are successful, Kenyans would be forced to pay illegal taxes. However, the CS claims that the government will likely lose around Ksh211 billion in the current fiscal year, making it challenging to carry out the 2023–24 budget as intended. According to Prof. Ndung’u, some projects must be put on hold. The purpose of the Finance Act of 2023 was to increase tax collection, the main source of money for the execution of the national budget. The CS
Shakahola massacre death toll rises to 384
The dead were found in seven graves in a community called “Judea,” according to the cops, and they are thought to belong to Paul Mackenzie’s followers. Due to the daily discovery of additional graves, the homicide detectives claim the work will take much longer than initially thought. We discovered 40 new mass graves at the start of the week, but we continue to discover fresh graves. In some cases, we discover graves right where we set up camp. Coast Regional Commissioner Rhoda Onyancha reports that 253 people have had DNA samples taken, 95 have been rescued, 37 have been arrested,
NCIC urges Ruto and Raila to dialogue for stability
The appeal comes in the aftermath of increasingly violent protests that have cost millions of dollars in losses due to the loss of life and substantial property damage. Speaking on Friday, NCIC Vice Chairperson Wambui Nyutu stressed the critical requirement that the two leaders look for peaceful solutions to the urgent problems confronting the country. Nyutu advocated enlarging the bipartisan membership committee in order to promote a more inclusive and thorough discussion, arguing that a lack of proper representation may be one of the causes of the bipartisan talks’ inaction. “We urge H.E. President of the Republic of Kenya and
Government sets up a GSU camp in Transmara border
There have been fatalities, evictions, and property losses as a result of the dispute at the Transmara boundary between Nkaararo and Enoreetet. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki gave security personnel orders to seize all illegal firearms from residents and maintain peace in the Kilgoris Constituency during the launching of the camp on Friday. The Interior CS stressed the need for historical grievances, particularly land disputes, to be settled amicably and legally. Violence should never be used to settle a quarrel, and it never can. “People killing each other, hurting others, and destroying property cannot solve historical grievances, including land disputes,
US refuses climate reparations for developing nations
Prior to traveling to China to examine the matter, climate envoy John Kerry made the comments at a congressional meeting. Some nations want developed economies, which are the biggest producers of greenhouse gases, to pay for previous emissions. Poorer countries have a fund set up for them, but it’s not clear how much the wealthy nations will contribute. During a hearing before a House of Representatives foreign affairs committee, Mr. Kerry, a former secretary of state, was questioned about whether the US would compensate nations hurt by floods, storms, and other climate-related calamities. When asked by committee chair Brian Mast,
Eyes on EPRA ahead of new prices plan on Friday
Following the High Court’s suspension of all taxes imposed by the Finance Act of 2023, Kenyans are eagerly awaiting the results of the fuel price review scheduled for Friday. By virtue of the court’s ruling, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) was essentially prevented from raising the value added tax on fuel from 8% to 16%. The revised prices, which are valid through August 14th, will be made public by EPRA. During the most recent assessment, the cost of petrol in Nairobi increased to Sh195.53 for super fuel and Sh179.67 for diesel, respectively, as of 1 July. The High
Elon Musk launches xAI firm to take on OpenAI
Musk, who is now the CEO of the electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla, the CEO of the rocket launch firm SpaceX, and the owner of Twitter, will serve as the startup’s CEO. Musk has previously stated that the development of AI should be put on hold and that the industry requires control. Musk has frequently expressed his worries about the potential “civilizational destruction” that AI could cause. Musk outlined his strategy for creating a more secure AI during a Twitter Spaces event on Wednesday night. xAI will aim to develop a “maximally curious” AI rather than overtly coding morality into its
Africa Climate Summit To Showcase Continent Climate Action Potential
She emphasized that specialized industries like renewable energy, carbon sinks, sustainable agriculture, and essential minerals will receive attention. “Dr. William Samoei Ruto, His Excellency the President of Kenya, and the leadership of the African Union Commission will lead the continent in exhibiting Africa’s green energy potentials during the summit, which include solar, wind, and hydro.” She said there is energy that, if harnessed, could power the entire planet while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. “At the summit, we will invite African nations to present their potential for vital minerals. We will argue in favor of processing lithium, cobalt, and other vital
KEPSA: Kenya loses Ksh3 billion daily from protests
The losses are linked to property destruction, looting, and vandalism during the anti-government protests that were seen across the nation. KEPSA stated in a statement on 12 July that “every time the country’s economic engines are shut down out of fear of theft and destruction from people who are taking advantage of the demonstrations, occasions unnecessary losses to the tune of about Ksh3 billion daily.” The Alliance has issued a warning that the nation cannot support the current political activity due to the difficult economic conditions and the slowing of economic growth. “Kenya can ill-afford the political activities at hand,”
How salaries for public servants are set by SRC
Among those who openly weighed in on the discussion was President William Ruto, who urged the SRC to exclude the review’s high-cadre officials. However, the SRC, which is constitutionally independent of the executive, is still anticipated to wrap up what will be its third review cycle and publish adjustments to the public service’s compensation structure later this month. What constitutes the SRC salary review? According to the 2010 Constitution, the SRC must determine and periodically evaluate the salaries and benefits of all State offices and provide guidance to the federal and local governments on the salaries and benefits of all
IMF seeks tighter controls on Kenyan loans
The World Bank claims in a new study that supports the recent issuance of a KSh141 billion ($1 billion) loan to Kenya that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other parties are working on amending the Act and that they should be ready soon. “The IMF undertook an updated safeguard evaluation of the Central Bank of Kenya in September 2019. CBK is still adhering to ethical external and financial reporting procedures, and its board is actively engaged in supervision activities. The CBK also keeps up efficient operating controls,” according to the World Bank. “The CBK has put most of the
Freeze order extended on Finance Act
As a result of the arguments made by all parties who appeared before Justice Mugure Thande, she determined on Monday that the petitioners had the upper hand because the CS had failed to persuade the court that the order should be suspended. The CS had contended, through Attorney General Justin Muturi, that the conservatory decision poses a threat to impede government operations as several other financial measures remain suspended. The judge stated, “Upon evaluation of the submissions, I have no difficulty finding that the petitioners have established a case with a probability of success,” adding that the general public will
Investors made billions in first six months of 2023
In the first half of this year, investors received better returns from lending to the Kenyan government and purchasing hard currency for investments compared to gains from holding real estate and stocks listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE). The seven-year infrastructure bond sold last month, which also has the added benefit of being tax-free, is returning investors 15.84%, which is the highest return on a bond released this year. Returns on Treasury notes have also increased this year, rising from an average of 9.8% at the start of the year to breaking the 12% mark for all three tenors
MPs give nod to first Kenyan virtual university
The first virtual university in Kenya has been approved by MPs, offering Kenyan students a low-cost alternative to the country’s traditional higher education system. The first cohort of 7,100 distance learners will be able to enroll in the Open University of Kenya (OUK) after the National Assembly last week adopted the draft charter for the institution. The Technical Committee on the Establishment of the Open University of Kenya stated in a report that “the fee students must pay for the identified programs should be between Ksh10,400 and Ksh10,900 per module based on the principle of affordability and in comparison to
Safaricom CEO and board pocketed Ksh534m in 2022
According to Safaricom, the pay package, which totalled Ksh534 million, was Ksh62 million higher than the Ksh471 million Mr. Ndegwa and the board received in compensation the previous year. According to documents by Safaricom, Mr. Ndegwa earned a gross yearly salary of Ksh313.11 million thanks to larger bonuses and a competitive remuneration plan. Compared to the Ksh288 million he received a year prior, this was Ksh24 million higher, or a gain of 8.37%. As with other Kenyan corporations, Safaricom, the most successful business in east Africa, has been making every effort to keep its top executives and board members satisfied
Public officers to declare spouses’ income and assets
If a proposed law that aims to handle conflicts of interest in public office is approved, public officers will be required to disclose all of their wives, their income, and assets together with their dependent children in their wealth disclosure forms. Investigations into corruption and court cases involving public officials point to a growing pattern in which spouses and children are utilized to conceal income that has been obtained through corruption in order to circumvent the law. “Public officials are hiding ill-gotten gains under the guise of genuine wealth amassed by their spouses. The occupation of the spouses is disclosed
Court extends Finance Act freeze order
Justice Mugure Thande stated that on July 10 the court would decide whether the orders will be in place until the cases brought up in opposition to the new law are heard and decided. The government and groups opposed to the Act on the extension of the orders have been at odds for some time. The Kenya Kwanza government did not submit its revenue predictions to Parliament for approval, according to those opposed to the new Act’s implementation, therefore it is hard to predict how it will use the money it receives from taxpayers. At the same time, the petitioners,
CS Owalo speaks on media attacks
The remarks were delivered by Owalo on a live show on Wednesday night. Despite this, the CS maintains that the action is a reaction to new problems in the media ecosystem rather than an attempt to destroy the media. “As you can see, funding the media is not the responsibility of the government. Despite the fact that the government must develop advertising in the media, it cannot be the exclusive source of funding for it. You need to think creatively. Possibly without the packaging. You can’t carry on operating your company in the same manner as before. Furthermore, you cannot
Ali to sell Brookside cows over Ksh.05m debt
On July 3, the court granted the outspoken lawmaker’s request to ask auctioneers to seize assets of the business connected to the family of former President Uhuru Kenyatta in order to satisfy a Ksh500,051 debt. The debt resulted from expenses that the court granted Mr. Ali in November 2022 after he prevailed in a lawsuit that the business had brought against him. Following a petition from the milk processing company trying to have him silenced and reparations for financial losses, the MP was given costs. Adrian Kamotho, the attorney for Mr. Ali, gave Fisra Auctioneers the order to seize and
AG to appeal CAS judgment
Justin Muturi, the attorney general, has vowed to appeal a High Court decision by a three-judge bench that deemed the creation of the Chief Administrative Secretary position unlawful. Please provide the Office of the Attorney General with typed proceedings and a certified copy of the judgment and decree in order for us to file an appeal in this regard. The case was heard by Justices Alansir Visram, Hedwig Ongundi, and Kanyi Kimondo. It was brought by a Kenyan living in the UK named Elijah Matindi, along with the Law Society of Kenya, Katiba Institute, and Multy Touch International. Attorney General
How fuel hike affect your matatu fare
The tariff adjustments, according to the Association’s chairperson Albert Karakacha, are intended to provide a buffer for investors in the transportation industry who are directly impacted by pump costs. Depending on their routes and the matatu saccos they use, Nairobi commuters will need to pay an additional Ksh10 to Ksh30 over and above the regular fares. Ummoiner, Dandora Usafiri, Nawaku, Eastleigh Service Commuters, Kayoline, Embassava, Baba Dogo, Kani Sacco, Utimo, and Forward Travellers Saccos are a few of the listed Nairobi routes. The cost of their regular fares will increase by between Ksh20 and Ksh50 for those who live in
TSC announces plans to recruit 20,000 intern teachers
Government has announced plans to recruit at least 20,000 teachers in a bid to bridge the national shortage, the Teachers Service Commission saying 18,000 of these intern instructors will be assigned to junior high and high schools. The balance of 2,000 intern teachers will be sent to primary schools to assist with the implementation of the new curricula. As a result, qualified educators will now have twelve days to submit their applications for open teaching posts in both junior secondary and primary schools. Those hired for Junior Secondary will be expected to teach a variety of subjects as part of
Kindiki seeks community support to end N. Kenya terrorism
Community and religious leaders, as well as inhabitants in the North Eastern region, have been urged to work with security agencies in the battle against terrorism by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki. Speaking to the public on Tuesday while touring the counties of Wajir and Mandera, Kindiki pleaded for tips on local criminal groups so that proper action could be taken. Kindiki stressed the value of forging a unified front in the fight against the threat, which he claims jeopardizes the stability of the nation. “In the fight against Al-Shabaab and other deadly extremists, residents are essential allies. You may
Risks of sacking ‘poor performers’
A precedent-setting judgment from a court is expected to tip the scales in favor of workers who have been fired for subpar performance It was noted that, especially when the employee has indicated areas that, if left in employment, can assist them attain their goals, employers can no longer overlook the causes for below-average performance. The Employment and Labour Court held that an employer would be unreasonable if they failed to consider a worker’s complaints about the workplace, which could have contributed to their subpar performance. Even after making valid complaints or grievances in accordance with the Employment Act’s requirements,
SA President hails BMW for hybrid X3 plant in country
Last week the BMW Group announced that it will be spending R4.2 billion (US$220 million) over the next five years to prepare its local manufacturing plant for the production of the next-generation BMW X3. The plug-in hybrid X3 will be exclusively manufactured in South Africa at BMW’s Rosslyn plant in Pretoria from the second half of 2024 making it BMW’s first locally-produced electric vehicle. “This investment announcement affirms the confidence investors continue to have in our economy. It also gives effect to the principle of our transition to low carbon energy. While there are fears that the move towards de-carbonisation
Backlash from Kenyans as president lifts tree cutting ban
Although Sunday’s developments were a much waited relief for saw millers and timber merchants, some environmentalists have castigated the move citing that it will cause deforestation and do away with the progress that had been made since the ban was implemented in 2018. Nevertheless, Ruto said the move was long overdue and was aimed at creating jobs and opening up sectors of the economy that rely on forest products. “Trees are decaying in the forest and people are struggling to get timber. You see the foolishness? We have lifted the ban so that we can harvest mature trees. Whoever imports
Meta to launch Twitter rival on Thursday
Screenshots depict a dashboard that resembles Twitter. Threads is referred to as a “text-based conversation app” by Meta. Elon Musk, the owner of Twitter, and Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg have been at odds for some time. The two guys agreed to a physical altercation last month, but it’s not apparent how serious they were about actually holding one. In an apparent retaliatory move against Mr. Zuckerberg, Mr. Musk tweeted in response to a tweet about Threads, “Thank goodness they’re so sanely run.” Twitter has announced that TweetDeck, a well-known user dashboard, would become pay-to-use after 30 days. The move is
FKE fears job loses and operational reductions as Finance Act takes effect
On Monday, June 25, the National Assembly approved the Act, and President William Ruto then gave his assent. The 16% value-added tax on fuel is one of the Act’s provisions that has already been put into effect, raising the cost of gasoline to Ksh195 a litre. The FKE spokesperson, Steven Obiro, stated on KTN News’ program The Impact on Monday, July 3, that the Finance Act was likely to have consequences, such as business closures, increased unemployment, and slowed economic growth. “The Finance Act includes taxes that will have varying effects on employers. The implementation of VAT on petroleum is
Court quashes appointment of 50 CASs
The three judge-bench has also argued that even though there was public participation for the initial 23 positions, the same was not done for the newly created 27 positions. The case was determined by Justices Hedwig Ong’udi, Kanyi Kimondo, and Aleem Visram. Further, the court has also ruled that the Public Service Commission failed in its mandate by creating extra 27 CAS positions without public participation. Three months ago, the High Court stopped the 50 newly appointed Chief Administrative Secretaries from assuming office or receiving any salary. At the time, Justice Ong’udi said the new appointees will only assume office
Twitter temporarily restricts tweets users can see
There are 500 new unconfirmed accounts. Accounts with the status “verified” can only make 10,000 posts per day at the moment. The tech billionaire first placed tighter restrictions, but he soon altered them after making the announcement. The interim restrictions, according to Mr. Musk, were put in place to combat “extreme levels of data scraping and system manipulation”. In this instance, he did not define what he meant by “system manipulation.” Users were shown displays requesting them to check in to read Twitter material on Friday. “We were getting data pillaged so much that it was degrading service for normal
New Zealand bans plastic bags in supermarkets
The decision, which became effective on Saturday, is a component of a larger government initiative to ban single-use plastics. Since take-home plastic bags were outlawed in 2019, the majority of customers now carry their own bags to stores. Many nations have recently implemented a levy or a ban on plastic bags. Associate Environment Minister Rachel Brooking stated that New Zealand creates an excessive amount of garbage, particularly plastic waste. She noted that since the prohibition on thicker bags went into effect in 2019, more than one billion plastic bags had been avoided. The new initiative is anticipated to stop the
SRC to continue salary review despite Ruto objection
The panel, which is independent of the Executive under the Constitution, stated that it will continue to accept public feedback on the planned review until July 13 before gazette[ing] the new wage structure for State officers later this month and offering recommendations on changes to other public offices. The SRC claimed that it had accepted the President’s views and compared them to any other remarks made during the stage for public involvement. “We are in the public participation process, and the President has a responsibility in providing the commission with his opinions and suggestions. Employing entities have also shared their
Epra ignores levy cuts
Kenyans have been forced to pay the revised charges as a result of Epra’s hasty decision to hold the Import Declaration Fee and Railway Development Levy at the previous rates. In order to protect Kenyans from the anticipated fuel price increase following the doubling of Value Added Tax from 8.0% to 16% on July 1, the Finance Act of 2023 amended the Miscellaneous Fees and Levies Act of 2016 to reduce IDF from 3.5% to 2.5% and RDL from 2.0% to 1.5%. The state referred to these reductions as offsets. Kenyans have suffered more than they should have from the
Salaried Kenyans unfairly burdened in the Finance Act
Budget writers haven’t felt compelled to add a new tax since a long time, except from the PAYE that is already directly levied against employers and employees. The fact that the president and other notables believe hustlers should take pride in their unemployment since they don’t earn wages that can be taxed is both terrible and absurd. According to several agencies, 20% to 25% of Kenyans with jobs earn more than Ksh50,000 per year. There are 80,000 Kenyans who make more than Ksh100,000 every year, according to estimates. Uhuru Park can accommodate this number. The fact that few employed Kenyans
Payraise for civil servants from July 1
President William Ruto stated on Friday, June 30, at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre that it was necessary to protect civil servants from the challenging economic climate. “I am aware that the SRC has proposed raising the pay for many cadres of public employees, including government officials. Therefore, we have decided that from tomorrow, the pay of our teachers, police officers, military personnel, and government employees will be increased by 7% to 10%,” Ruto remarked during the unveiling of the new e-citizen platform. Additionally, the president requested that SRC postpone any salary adjustments for State authorities, such as himself, his
EPRA increases oil prices despite court order
Okiya Omtatah, a senator from Busia and an activist, the Law Society of Kenya, and three other parties petitioned the High Court for an injunction to halt the implementation of the Finance Act 2023 while their claims are being considered and decided. LSK asks the court to declare the Act illegal in their case, contending that Members of Parliament broke the law, especially the statute governing public participation, and that the bill is unconstitutional. On Monday, June 26, President William Ruto signed the Finance Bill 2023 into law after it had been approved by the National Assembly. According to the
Court suspends Finance Act
The High Court temporarily suspended the Finance Act 2023 last evening, giving Kenyans a cause to breath easy and with hope despite the decisions being a significant blow to the government. The Treasury’s proposal to achieve the Ksh3.6 trillion budget via increasing taxes. After the law increased the fuel charge from 8% to 16%, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority had just announced new petroleum rates. When this action is slated to be mentioned for directions on July 5, 2023, Justice Mugure instructed, “I am satisfied that the application meets the test for conservatory orders and I do grant prayers
Ruto, Gachagua, MPs set for 14% pay raise in SRC review
The Salaries and Remuneration Commission has suggested a review that would provide state offices, such as the President, the Deputy President, Cabinet Secretaries, and MPs, a 14% pay increase on average over the next two years starting next month in order to protect them from the growing expense of living. In contrast, those who get a salary, work part-time, or are employed in the unorganized sector will continue to struggle in a harsh inflationary climate. From July 2023 to July 2024, President William Ruto’s gross monthly compensation would increase by a further 6.7% to Ksh1,650,000. Currently, it is Ksh1,443,750. From
IEBC selection panel lays ground to recruit seven commissioners
President William Ruto and Azimio leader Raila Odinga are engaged in bipartisan negotiations aimed at resolving their political differences. In an exclusive interview with The Standard yesterday, Nelson Makanda, the chairperson of the IEBC selection panel, rejected claims that their operations were suspended to make room for those negotiations. “The IEBC panel is still in operation and is currently performing its tasks. The panel has been established, is functioning, and is in session. In fact, we’re scheduled to meet at 2:30 pm tomorrow. Nothing needs to be concealed, he declared. Makanda refuted claims that President Ruto gave them orders to
US supreme court rules against affirmative action in Harvard and UNC cases
The US supreme court, driven by its conservative supermajority, on Thursday ended race-conscious admissions at universities across the country, tossing out decades of precedent in American life and delivering a huge blow to the cause of greater student diversity on campuses. The conservative justices concluded that admissions policies at Harvard University and the University of North Carolina violated the US constitution’s equal protection clause. This effectively prohibits the use of affirmative action policies in the US that acted as a tipping point, among many other admission factors, to raise the number of Black, Hispanic and other underrepresented minority students at
Wrestler Omumasaba wins second medal for Kenya in Hammamet
Omumasaba beat South Africa’s Machiel Johannes Grobler 3-0 in the silver medal match. He was delighted to finally find a place on the podium having been in Tunisia last month during the African Championships and losing to the same opponent. “I really feel delighted. I have grown in the game from my first bout in the morning. I was calmer when I approached this game and I am happy to have won my first ever medal in these games,” Omumasaba said after the match. He added; “It was a really tough match because my opponent knew what he was doing
Why you are likely to fail a refresher driving test
Last week, the National Transport and Safety Authority started retesting all drivers of commercial vehicles and public service vehicles. According to the NTSA, the re-test is required for drivers of commercial and public service vehicles and is a requirement for renewing driving licenses with the class endorsement(s) 83, D1, D2, D3, C, Cl. CE, and CD2. These groups include matatu, taxi, and commercial and school bus drivers. Experienced drivers’ skills and knowledge can be updated and improved through refresher driving courses. People who have been driving for a while and wish to stay current on the most recent traffic laws,
EPRA to announce new fuel prices as 16% VAT takes effect
As the 16% VAT is implemented tomorrow, EPRA will release new fuel pricing. On Friday, June 30, the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) will reveal new pump prices. Every month on the 14th, EPRA announces modifications to fuel prices. Fuel prices are expected to rise as a result of the increase in the value-added tax on petroleum products from 8% to 16%. Industry insiders believe that this will cause the price of diesel and super petrol to climb by more than Ksh12. In support of the National Treasury’s request to raise taxes, the Committee on Finance and Planning of
MPs to scrap idle and disorderly offence from law
Due to the way law enforcement uses the idle and disorderly offense in the Penal Code to harass the people, a parliamentary committee has backed a bill that would eliminate it. The Penal Code (Amendment) Bill, according to the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee, intends to shield the general population from unwarranted harassment by law enforcement. George Murugara, the committee’s chair, stated: “While considering the Bill, the committee observed from a majority of the submissions that law enforcement agencies have abused Section 182 of the Penal Code to harass the public and infringe on fundamental human rights and freedoms.” The
Counties you are likely to be poor in Kenya
Kenya has significant regional income disparities as evidenced by the fact that over a fifth of the country’s impoverished live in just five counties. The Nakuru, Bungoma, Nairobi, Kakamega, and Kilifi counties are home to 3.92 million of the 19.1 million poor Kenyans, according to data from the Kenya Poverty Report published by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics. The results of the poll showed that Nakuru, with 893,000 people, had the largest percentage of people living in poverty, followed by Bungoma with 775,000. The survey defined poverty as having a monthly income of less than Ksh3,947 in rural areas
Treasury imposes hiring and cash limitations in expenditures
As part of a broad range of steps to combat the wastage of public funds during tight budget conditions, the Treasury has established monthly funding restrictions for government ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) and prohibited hiring new workers, promotions, and pay hike negotiations. In a memo to MDA accounting officials, Prof. Ndung’u stated, “Cash planning and setting of cash limits are intended to ensure more predictable execution of the budget, and consequently delivery of services and public investments.” Category one expenditures under the new disbursement plan will pay for statutory obligations, such as debt repayments, wages, cash transfers to the
Kenyans to lose Ksh2.5b as KRA stops Swiss firm contract
MPs now want the KRA to explain why it decided to re-advertise the tender rather than remaining with the present supplier and purchasing the stamps at a discounted rate starting in July 2024. The problem first came to light yesterday when Swiss company SICPA, which is currently carrying out a service contract to monitor the production of cold beverages like beer and soft drinks, appeared before the National Assembly Public Investments committee on Commercial Affairs and Energy to provide more information on the contract. According to documents presented to the committee, KRA paid SICPA Ksh2 billion for a five-year license
InDrive gets Kenya licence
With competitors like Uber, Little Cabs, and Bolt, the US-based mobility company inDrive has gotten an official license to operate in Kenya, which is expected to strengthen competition in the ride-hailing sector. According to Godfrey Mabula, inDrive’s business representative in Kenya, “With the official licensing to operate in Kenya, inDrive is excited to contribute to the local transportation ecosystem, providing safe, dependable, and affordable mobility options to the people of Kenya.” “The business is eager to work with local drivers and give back to the community while preserving its commitment to safety and ethical business practices.” Added Godfrey. Ride-hailing services
Suppliers to wait longer as Cabinet orders pending bills audit
The creation of a special committee to audit the outstanding invoices before payment can commence, thus contractors and suppliers to wait longer as Cabinet orders pending bills audit of products and services to the national government would now have to wait longer to be paid for more than Ksh537.2 billion. According to a statement from the Cabinet, “the pending bills verification committee will be tasked with the auditing of liabilities for the period between 2005 and 2022.” Crucially, the committee will suggest a way to halt pending measures in the future. The committee would deliver its final report within a year,
KTA: We will shut down parliament, key govt offices
Kenyans from all the sectors of our nation having rejected the Finance Bill (93% of Kenyans), have watched as President Ruto intimidated the National Assembly to pass the draconian Finance Bill 2023 which he has assented into Law this morning. A while ago, The Senate of Kenya slashed the funds for county governments from Kshs 408b as advised by the CRA to Kshs 385 b denying the counties more than 28b! Both Houses of Parliament have confirmed that they do not represent the people of Kenya but the Presidency. Parliament has generally refused to do its oversight work. Reports of
Pain for borrowers as key lending rate is raised
It will be Pain for borrowers as key lending rate is raised highest in seven years. You will now pay more to maintain your loan or apply for a new one. The persistent increase in prices of goods and services, as well as the elevated global risks and their potential impact on the domestic economy, were cited as some of the main reasons for tightening the money supply by the Monetary Policy Committee, which held its first meeting on Monday, June 26, under the chairmanship of the recently appointed CBK governor Kamau Thugge. However, it is anticipated that the reduction
How I would deal with economic crisis in Kenya – Reuben Kigame
There are short-term, mid-term and long-term solutions that my team and I are ready to offer. Here, allow me to share the short-term or immediate solutions we would implement given a chance: 1. Suspend all mega projects for at least two years to allow a forensic audit, appraisal and restructuring. 2. Reduce the size of government as well as government spending by removing all duplicate and ghost staff members and departments. 3. Hire only relevant professionals of character and performance record. 4. Suspend all unnecessary foreign trips and instead use virtual options, and reduce the number of delegates that go
MP rescued from angry teachers
At the time of the incident, Milemba was at a secondary school teachers’ sporting event at Tom Mboya University in Homa Bay. The union secretary general, Akelo Misori, and the KUPPET chairman arrived at Tom Mboya University in good spirits and were warmly welcomed by the teachers, who appeared to be enjoying the competition. Four minutes later, the master of ceremonies welcomed Milemba to make his opening remarks, laying the groundwork for the eagerly anticipated final football game. Milemba, who is also the MP for the Emuhaya Constituency, stepped up to the podium and started speaking to the instructors. However,
Ruto approves the Finance Bill
At State House in Nairobi on Monday morning, according to officials, Ruto approves the Finance Bill and signed it into law. “The Finance Bill has received the president’s approval,” according to State House Press Secretary Emmanuel Talam. The contentious Bill was approved during a turbulent session that the Opposition largely avoided. Following its ratification, President Ruto declared that the tax law will let his government to fulfill its promise to Kenyans in its manifesto and reduce its heavy reliance on foreign debt. The Kenya Kwanza administration’s Ksh3.6 trillion budget for the 2023–24 fiscal year will be funded by an additional
KRA to set minimum prices for alcohol
The Finance and National Planning Committee proposed the amendments that were approved by the National Assembly on Wednesday evening, mandates KRA to set minimum prices for alcohol. Following the modifications, the 2010 Alcoholic Drinks Act will now be a part of the written laws governing revenue after originally being included in the 1995 Kenya Revenue Authority Act. By publishing notices in the gazette, they grant the taxman the authority to establish and modify the price of alcoholic beverages. The 2010 Alcoholic Drinks Act was further amended, and the minimum input cost definition was added. This definition now refers to the
Ogier wins 2023 Safari Rally
The Toyota Gazoo speedster finished ahead of teammate and world champion Kalle Rovanpera by 6.7 seconds as Ogier wins 2023 Safari Rally, and the race came to an end yesterday in Naivasha, clocking a time of 3:30:42.5. Elfyn Evans (3:33:41.0) and Takamoto Katsuta (3:34:06.3) finished third and fourth, respectively, for Toyota, completing a three-peat in the Kenyan leg. Ogier, a daredevil, has won the Safari twice; the first time was in 2021, when the event returned to the nation after a 19-year absence. Ogier stated at the Wolf Power Stage in Hells Gate, where he was raucously greeted by joyful
Facebook, Instagram to restrict news access in Canada
Facebook, Instagram to restrict news access in Canada after the passage of a contentious internet news bill by parliament. The legislation mandates that major platforms pay news publishers for the content that is posted on their websites. Both Meta and Google have already conducted tests limiting some Canadians’ access to news. Due to a similar regulation, Australian users were prohibited from posting or reading news on Facebook in 2021. The Online News Act of Canada, which passed the senate on Thursday, establishes guidelines that mandate companies like Meta and Google to make business agreements and compensate news organizations for their
Alcohol manufacturers want advance excise duty halted
According to the Kenyan Alcoholic Beverages Association, forcing legal alcohol producers to pay excise duty within 24 hours of removing their products from the stockroom will punish innocent participants for Kenya’s shortcomings in controlling illegal alcohol. They pointed out that although the idea was supposed to stop the trafficking of illicit alcohol, it is more likely to end up boosting it because it was not taken through public input and was simply included to the Finance Bill by the National Assembly’s Finance Committee. The implementation of the provision through the Finance Bill, according to ABAK Chairman Eric Githua, is not
Jekim hospital Meru re-opened
Jekim Hospital Meru re-opened as a result of a High Court ruling that was issued on Friday, June 23. This is taking place as authorities look into reports that some hospitals took part in the NHIF scam. Jekim Hospital re-opened and resumed its regular services, albeit, when the hospital management sought legal assistance. In a matter that was brought before Meru High Court Judge Edward Muriithi, Jekim Hospital Nkubu Ltd and John Kirimi Kirimania T/A Jekim Medical Centre (petitioners) opposed the closure of the institution in South Imenti Sub County. The first, second, and third responders were identified as the
Chaos in UDA Mombasa meeting
After both leaders and their followers arrived to take part in the grassroots mobilization activity that UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala had organized, the Chaos in UDA Mombasa meeting, had it adjourned. Security personnel were had to step in to break up the conflicting factions before things got out of hand. According to reports, prominent figures who were present at the event were escorted to safety as the two crowds fought. Malala verified the conflicting sides arrived at the meeting with Hassan Omar and MP Mohammed Ali of Nyali, both members of the East Africa Legislative Assembly, after the situation
Omar, Ali differ on UDA control in Mombasa
In a recent development, Omar has switched to Hassan Joho’s side and advised President William Ruto’s administration not to pursue the Joho family’s business. Ali has also backed Governor Abdulswamad Nassir , a political rival of Omar. Prior to the party’s grassroots election, which is scheduled for August of this year, the two politicians, who served as the face of UDA throughout the 2022 campaigns in the county, have been attempting to install members of opposing parties or lineups connected to them. Intense rivalry between Mr. Omar and Mr. Ali is also reported to be tied to their intentions to
Finance bill battle not over,Azimio to KK
In order to investigate the validity of the Finance Bill, 2023, which was approved by Parliament this week, they claimed to be seeking other options. Speaking at an education day on Friday in Rarieda sub-county, the leaders said that they have already filed a lawsuit to halt the Bill, which they characterized as punitive. Otiende Amollo, a Rarieda MP, advised the Kenya Kwanza government to postpone their festivities and stated that they would also consult the Kenyan populace before taking any more action. Amollo claimed that despite their efforts to oppose the Bill at every level, the Kenya Kwanza MPs
Women handball team counting on Global Tour experience in Hammamet
The Kenyan team clinched silver in the global tour, played just a few days before the Beach Games starts, in Hammamet as well. They lost to hosts Tunisia in the final, but they say the lessons picked will be vital for them heading to the African showpiece which starts Saturday. They have within their ranks the experienced Michelle Adhiambo, also the skipper of the Nairobi Water Handball team, and she says they have prepared well enough to push themselves into the medal bracket. “We have had a chance to play against some of the teams during the Global Tour and
Sprint rowers target smooth sailing in Hammamet wavy waters
The duo of Harrison Malenga and Diana Natecho will be flying Kenya’s flag on the waters of Hammamet, Tunisia on Saturday when they saddle up for their first event in sprint beach rowing. The duo, alongside their coach Mathew Lidaywa have been in Tunisia for the past one week training and acclimatizing as well as getting used to competition equipment, and they say they are ready to do their best in the competition. “We have been here for a week now, and we are getting used to the equipment and the water as well, and I believe we are doing
4.4m submit tax returns before deadline
In comparison to a target of six million taxpayers, the KRA data released on Thursday reveals that more than 4.4 million taxpayers have filed returns by June 20. According to the taxman, it has been processing more than 120,000 submissions each day and anticipates that number to rise to 500,000 as the deadline draws near. “Returns from 4.41 million taxpayers had been submitted, up 15% from the same time in 2022. This includes resident and non-resident taxpayers as well as individual and non-person taxpayers, the taxman said on Thursday. The Tax Procedures Act of 2015 gives the KRA the authority
Parents kill son over Ksh50
The deceased was a student at Kiang’inda Secondary School, according to Paul Makonge, the director of criminal investigations for Nyamira South. On Thursday morning, while receiving treatment at a nearby hospital, he passed away from his wounds. According to police records, the youngster reportedly had family members beat him up and as a result, he had serious injuries. “The deceased was severely battered, he was unable to walk. Up until Thursday morning, when they transported him to a neighboring private hospital, the family kept him hidden in their home without any medication. Moments after he arrived, he was declared dead,”
Kenya Power monopoly to end
According to the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority, the rules would pave the way for generators like KenGen to sell electricity directly to significant customers like companies. If the regulations are implemented, they will make the Energy Act of 2019’s requirements for the opening up of the energy distribution market operative. The state-owned electricity distributor’s earnings are predicted to suffer from the sector’s openness, but it also aims to increase electricity dependability as more and more major users choose to alternative energy sources because of the national grid’s high costs and instability. “The wheeling rules will soon be implemented. In
Ruto wants $500bn credit line for weak economies
President Ruto wants $500bn credit line for weak economies yearly, be established for the purpose of refinancing official debt that is coming due for failing economies into brand-new, long-term loans with a 50-year maturity and a 10- to 20-year grace period. Dr. Ruto advocated for the establishment of a just global financial architecture that will ensure equality for all members. Kenya has received loans from the IMF and the World Bank totaling billions of dollars. The President advocated for a new global financial tax that would be paid by all members in accordance to their economic might, he was speaking
Sweeteners MPs got to pass punitive taxes
The sweeteners MPs got to pass punitive taxes , even while resisting the contentious Housing Fund, which was later turned into a levy, raged, the Treasury also gave MPs Ksh1.5 billion, hived off from the first supplementary budget for the 2022/2023 fiscal year, as a seed fund for constructing 100 houses per constituency. MPs have been tasked with locating public land where such homes could be built in their respective areas. With the support of President William Ruto’s government, the lawmakers are also working to pass two bills that will guarantee they keep the Ksh44 billion National Government Constituencies Development
OceanGate-Titan sub five were ‘true explorers’
According to a statement from OceanGate-Titan sub five were ‘true explorers’ , the men “shared a distinct spirit of adventure”. The US Coast Guard believes that the guys perished in a catastrophic implosion. On Thursday, five pieces of the submersible were discovered around 1600 feet from the Titanic wreck’s bow. The thing had vanished on Sunday. Stockton Rush, the 61-year-old CEO of OceanGate, British-Pakistani businessman Shahzada Dawood, 48, and his son Suleman, 19, as well as 58-year-old British businessman Hamish Harding were among the men on board the sub. Paul-Henry Nargeolet, a 77-year-old explorer and veteran diver in the French
Titanic sub search fears over oxygen levels
Based on past calculations, the sub might only have a little amount of oxygen left if it is still operational and intact. With enough oxygen for its five crew for four days, it vanished on Sunday in a desolate area of the North Atlantic. And on Thursday, there were still many unanswered questions about how it could be found. The private company OceanGate Expeditions owned and operated the minivan-sized submersible, but it has not yet been found. If it is discovered, it will need to be accessed with sophisticated rescue tools before being taken to the surface in a process
Alexandra Ndolo to compete in Olympics 2024
The National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOCK) is pleased to announce that Alexandra Ndolo, a renowned fencer, has received official confirmation and approval from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to represent Kenya at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Ndolo, who previously fenced for Germany, made the decision to switch her nationality to Kenya, and her recent remarkable feat of becoming the African Champion has solidified her place in Kenyan fencing history. She is the first Kenyan fencer ever to achieve this extraordinary accomplishment, bringing pride and inspiration to the nation. The International Olympic Committee’s communique’ regarding Ndolo’s eligibility to
Airtel 5G rollout in July
At a press conference on Wednesday in Nairobi, Bharti Airtel Chairman Sunil Mittal stated that the company is at an advanced stage of Airtel 5G rollout in July, and that the launch will take place sometime early next month. “Our launch of 5G services, possibly early next month, is not too far away, we are now in the final lap of the launch of 5G services.” Mittal continued. The telco has already pushed out its 4G network throughout all of Africa, including Kenya. According to information released by Airtel in February, the sophisticated network service’s initial rollout will concentrate on
Shilling to fall to150 against dollar next June
According to a recent Treasury report, the nation would spend Ksh301,513,774,986 in total to purchase a $2 billion international sovereign bond. This results in a conversion rate of 150.76. According to information from the Central Bank of Kenya, the shilling was trading at an average of 140.2 against the dollar. The shilling has been breaking records every day and has since crossed the 140-mark. The Treasury estimated the cost of redeeming the first Eurobond at Sh241.75 billion in March, or Ksh120.87 at the time. In his budget speech on Thursday of last week, Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u provided this
Ksh5.7bn salaries paid outside payroll- Budget controller
The results of an assessment of salaries paid by ministries, departments, and agencies in the nine months leading up to March 2023 cast doubt on the government’s resolve to make pay bill spending transparent. Due to difficulties with manual payroll processing, the government has in the past paid phantom workers with billions of shillings each year. “A review of recurrent spending reveals that 40.3% of MDAs’ total gross recurrent expenditures, or Ksh399.96 billion, were spent on employee remuneration. The Integrated Personnel and Payroll Database and other authorized payroll management systems processed Ksh363.66 billion, according to further study., Ksh5.66 billion was
Effects of fuel tax on households and motorists
The Kenya Kwanza administration hopes to raise Ksh50 billion from fuel taxes, thus the higher fuel prices, which are anticipated to take effect on July 1, would also be more painful for drivers, distributors, and manufacturers. Consumers will be charged more for food, transportation, and electricity as a result of these additional costs. After the new taxes, a litre of super gasoline in Nairobi will cost Ksh193.77 instead of the current Ksh182.04; diesel may cost Ksh177.94 instead of Ksh167.28. Consumers might anticipate paying Ksh171.71 for a litre of kerosene instead of the current Ksh161.48. After a contentious debate in the
Tougher Times For Kenyans
After a contentious debate in which Azimio and Kenya Kwanza MPs sparred in the House, 184 lawmakers voted to raise the VAT to 16% against 84 who abstained, paving the way for a potential hike in fuel prices of more than Ksh.10, and tougher times for Kenyans ahead. The majority of the Azimio opposition coalition MPs opposed raising the fuel tax to 16%, arguing that doing so would raise living expenses. The Finance Bill 2023‘s clause on increasing the VAT on gasoline was removed after an amendment was filed by Kitui Central MP Makali Mulu. He made the case that
Safari Rally windfall for Naivasha hotels
This week, Kenya will host the World Rally Championship, which will draw tens of thousands of spectators from around the globe to the Safari Rally, one of the world’s toughest competitions. Which will continue till Sunday. Due to the large number of guests traveling to the lakeside town for the event, the major hotels in Naivasha are aiming to make significant profits with several of their facilities fully booked. Kenyan hoteliers anticipate that the most recent iteration of the iconic march will generate more revenue than the Ksh8 billion achieved in 2021. The earnings for the previous year have not yet
Decriminalisation of suicide law that punishes people with mental illness
Suicide is one of the stigmatized signs of mental illness, but under Kenyan law, it is a crime. Should the victims be held accountable in a country where people with mental illness have so few options? And what choices do they have? One of the most contentious issues in Kenyan and African society continues to be suicide. Suicide, also referred to as self-murder, is defined as dying as a result of intentionally harming oneself. An individual makes a suicide attempt when they harm themselves with the intention of taking their own life, even if they are not successful in doing
Azimio fight to stop Kuria senate appearance
Senators from the opposition left the chamber in protest of Kuria’s presence in the plenary prior to the discussion of a motion to condemn him for using the media as a weapon during his outburst. The Senate Speaker, Amason Kingi, decided not to allow attempts to have the alleged motion debated because it had not yet been procedurally submitted, which led to the walkout. “As far as I’m concerned, [Senator] Sifuna hasn’t presented any motions that I’m aware of. This particular motion cannot be the topic of today’s floor discussion because I have not seen it. Even if it was
Drivers to retake courses if they fail NTSA re-test
According to the National Transport and Safety Authority, drivers who fail re-test tests must enroll in driving schools and retake the required course. Following an instruction from the Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen to have all commercial and public service vehicle drivers undergo re-examination, the transport authority is conducting the retesting process. The rule went into effect on 1 June, 2023. For their driving license to be renewed, they must pass the retest. The rule was inspired by several accidents that lost Kenyans their lives and were partially attributed to driver mistake. A notice issued by the transportation department on
Risks posed by AI to security,economy must be addressed-Biden
At a San Francisco speech, Biden stated, “My government is devoted to defending Americans’ rights and safety while protecting privacy, to eliminating bias and misinformation, and to ensuring AI systems are secure before they are launched.” To discuss artificial intelligence, Biden met with a group of civil society leaders and activists who have previously decried the sway of powerful tech firms. He remarked, “I wanted to hear firsthand from the professionals.” Many governments are thinking about how to lessen the risks associated with the new technology, which has seen a surge in consumer interest and investment since the publication of
Private hospitals biggest NHIF beneficiaries
According to Susan Nakhumicha, the Health Cabinet Secretary, private hospitals in Kenya are the largest recipients of funding from the National Health Insurance Fund. Approximately 60% of NHIF funds, according to Nakhumicha, go to private establishments. Small private facilities perform more surgery than all public hospitals combined. “How come over 60% of NHIF contributions go to private facilities? The fact that we discovered the facility that needed to be paid the most was one that we had halted is startling given the considerable delays from Exchequer in our payments,” the CS explains. “in all honesty,I am still not sure that
Sifuna files censure motion against Kuria
The Senate is currently debating a motion by Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna asking for a declaration that Kuria is unable to serve in office as a result of his comments to deny advertising to specific journalistic outlets, which he mocked in a string of offensive tweets. Kuria’s comments are described as “concerning” by Sifuna in the vehement move, which also claims that Kuria’s assaults on Nation Media Group violate Article 34 of the Constitution, which guarantees press freedom. “…the CS for Investments, Trade and Industry, whose reckless tongue has now reached an unrivaled level of infamy in the nation and
Kenya,EU economic partnership agreement
President William Ruto said the collaboration will be a step forward for the East African Community Partner States in a statement at State House on Monday, June 19 morning. According to him, the alliance will expand upon the terms of the EPA between the EU and EAC nations. “The EU-Kenya Agreement will therefore retain the potential to evolve as an intrinsic feature, insofar as it shall remain open to accession by EAC Partner States, in line with the decision of the Summit, which recognized the need to permit some Partner States to move forward and commence engagements with the EU
CS Kuria is a national shame-Media
“Let me finish by saying this to those in the media industry, Nation Media should decide whether you are a gazette, a broadcasting house, a media house, or an opposition party,” said Kuria in a speech on Sunday, June 18, at the Akorino Annual Convention in Embu. He further stated that any government agency discovered to be working with the aforementioned media outlet will suffer the repercussions. “And I declare that starting today, any government office that I see running Nation Media ads will leave, God bless you everyone.” Kuria said. Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria threatens to sack any
Leadership disputes rock Supkem
Elections were supposed to take place in 2020, according to a segment of the leadership, but they were delayed because of Covid-19. Director General of Supkem Abdulatif Shaban contended that a letter from the Registrar of Societies confirming Naado as the legitimate National Chairman did not outline the steps used to confer the post on him. Since Ambassador Yusuf Nzibo was chosen as the Supkem National Chairman in 2017, no election has been held. As a result, Shaban remarked, “we have yet to comprehend the procedure that Hassan ole Naado used to become the National Chairman.” He said that Naado
Tough July as Ruto taxes take effect
The Finance Bill 2023 contains new taxes with three start dates: 1 July 2023, 1 September 2023, and 1 January 2024. However, the Kenya Kwanza administration has delayed the start of most taxes until next month in order to raise money for the Ksh3.68 trillion budget. From July, small enterprises with yearly sales revenues between Ksh1 million and Ksh25 million will pay a 3% turnover tax, an increase from the current Ksh1 million–Ksh50 million turnover tax of 1%. Social media influencers, including those advertising companies, will now be required to reserve 5% of their gross earnings related to the creation
Kindiki supports IG Koome promotion of officers
The CS stated that police officers should be honored for the hardships they have endured in the name of public safety. “We are promoting the officers who have worked for the public,” the CS declared. Koome received criticism from the National Police Service Commission last week for promoting 500 police officers. Furthermore, Kindiki voiced her concerns about rogue police officers terrorizing the public and demanding money from boda boda drivers on Sunday at Pefa Church in Kamahuha Village, Maragua. To preserve the reputation of the force, he declared, “I will deal with rogue police officers.” The advertising stated, in part,
Four point-plan for restructuring KPLC
In his budget statement on Thursday, Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u stated that the government will infuse Ksh19.4 billion to pay the debt owed to Kenya Power under the plan, as well as commercialize all future dealings with the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation. Kenya Power is facing billions of shillings in unpaid bills for operating and maintaining the entire network on behalf of the Rerec for a program to extend the grid to rural areas. Aside from repaying Kenya Power and commercializing future projects with State agencies, the restructure aims to improve the company’s overall performance. “The government
Ksh3.4b boost for Ruto,Gachagua,Mudavadi offices
The Treasury has recommended additional billions to the three offices in its second 2022/23 supplementary budget, which covers spending in the fiscal year ending June 30, despite a Ksh39 billion decrease in development allocations. The Executive Office of the President will receive the lion’s share of budget increases, totaling Ksh3.1 billion, while the Deputy President’s and Prime Cabinet Secretary’s offices will receive Ksh166 million and Ksh81.3 million, respectively. State departments and ministries, on the other hand, such as the Treasury, correctional services, infrastructure, the National Assembly, the Teachers Service Commission, crop development, and agricultural research, are among the biggest losers
Ruto budget has imprints of IMF, World Bank
The 129-page Budget address aimed to explain the motivation behind the far-reaching revenue-raising plan, which will see the State embrace several policies from the two Washington-based organizations that Kenya pledged to implement, including boosting the value-added tax on petroleum to 16%. Several items were also removed from the zero-rating list, which means they will now be subject to the 16% sales tax, a step long supported by the World Bank. Dr. Ruto, whose first objective after taking office was to phase out gasoline subsidies in accordance with IMF requirements, has refused to back down from the proposal to raise VAT
Sugar price to remain high
Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u stated in his Budget statement on Thursday that the duty, which will be passed on to the final consumer, is intended to discourage sugar consumption for health reasons. The staple, on the other hand, is a constant in almost all houses and, along with bread, flour, rice, and milk, is one of the most widely eaten household food products. Sugar prices have risen to over $675.69 (Ksh94,400) per tonne due to a global scarcity, up from $560.46 (Ksh78,301) in February. The Kenyan market is also experiencing a scarcity, with the country’s weekly ideal stock dropping
Salaried workers to lift hustlers
In keeping with the Ruto administration’s pledge to go after the privileged in order to help the poor, amendments to the Finance Bill 2023 proposed by the National Assembly’s Budget and Finance Committee target the middle class for higher taxes and levies while providing some relief to low-income earners. The Robin Hood effect refers to a policy in which the less well-off benefit economically at the expense of the better-off. The committee has lifted the Ksh2,500 restriction on housing charge contributions while keeping the higher VAT on fuel and the new tax bracket of 35% for upper earners. By converting
Equity takes Rwanda bank for Ksh6.7b
The lender, which leads the Kenyan profitability chart, revealed on Wednesday that it has inked an agreement to buy a 91.9% share in Compagnie Générale De Banque Plc (Cogebanque) in a deal worth Ksh7.26 billion. Equity will purchase the interest from the Rwandan government, Rwanda Social Security Board, Sanlam Vie Plc, and Ms Judith Mugirasoni, and will eventually make an offer to purchase the remaining shares. “By acquiring Cogebanque, Equity Group will be able to expand its footprint and consolidate its position in Rwanda,” Equity Group CEO James Mwangi stated in a statement. This is Equity’s second effort to acquire
The Ksh1.2b fertilizer factory in Western Kenya
This is due to the construction of a new fertiliser plant in Kakamega County, which will also create over 1,000 jobs in and around the region. The County Government of Kakamega and the US government have agreed to build the multibillion-dollar plant, with Regen Organics serving as the implementing business. Kakamega County Governor Fernandes Barasa commissioned the facility’s construction in the Matawa district of Mumias West Constituency in May. Regen Organics will build and outfit the organic fertilizer plan for 18 months at a cost of Ksh1.2 billion. The project was made feasible by a collaboration between the US government
Counties prioritising salaries over development- Controller of Budget
County governments are now being obliged to prioritize salary payment over development, according to the national and county governments budget implementation evaluation report for the third quarter of 2022/2023. According to a report released on Wednesday by Controller of Budget Margaret Nyakang’o, county development is at an all-time low, with only Ksh29.7 billion (12%) spent on development out of the Ksh239.7 billion released to counties in the last nine months. Nyakang’o revealed that of the cash allocated to devolved units, Ksh135.8 billion was spent on salaries, while Ksh74.09 billion was spent on maintenance and operations. Lamu, Tharaka Nithi, and Embu
KK dishonest about Finance bill concessions-Azimio
Despite President William Ruto’s concessions to the Bill, the opposition pledged Wednesday to kill it, accusing him of insincerity in recent revisions to the controversial Bill. Azimio’s legislative leadership is now urging President Ruto to remove the Bill in its entirety and reintroduce a more populist one. The National Assembly Finance and National Planning Committee said on Monday that it has withdrawn and changed several of the problematic elements in the fiscal Bill, which was put on the House floor yesterday. However, while the committee reduced the 3% housing levy to 1.5% of basic salary, it kept the idea to
Iebc election officials still unpaid six months after delivering results
As we daily discuss Shakahola, taxation, the house levies and how to vote in parliament, we have forgotten something as a country and it is going to affect us badly. We have neglected the plight of patriots who put the current government into office. Thousands of Kenyans including Returning Officers, clerks, I.T. experts and numerous service providers continue to wonder in the dark about what happened to their dues after they faithfully delivered last year’s by-elections. The Commission cannot conduct any election without adequate funding, so the question is, who is sitting on the monies owed to Kenyans six months
MPs to modify contentious Finance Bill provisions
After a five-day retreat in Naivasha, the committee led by Molo MP Kuria Kimani agreed to alter some of the contentious sections. Though it did not specify which parts had been altered, the committee stated that all public comments and petitions had been addressed. The 3% housing charge and 16% value-added tax on petroleum items have dominated discussions in recent weeks, with the opposition demanding for the Bill to be removed. However, speaking to the press in Naivasha, Kuria expressed optimism that the Bill would be approved by the National Assembly. He stated that they had reviewed all of the
Cartels poisoned my brother, DP Gachagua
Gachagua alleged in a live televised interview on Inooro that his elder brother was poisoned, which resulted in his health deterioration and death. The former governor died on 24 February 2017 as a result of pancreatic cancer, according to his family. Nderitu Gachagua, the Mathira Constituency MP before becoming governor, died at the age of 64 while receiving treatment at a London hospital. In a fresh twist, the DP claimed that deep-pocketed coffee cartels were involved in his late brother’s death. “Our family believes and knows that our brother was poisoned by the cartels; he was very healthy before declaring
300 university slots for Djibouti students at local rates
“I have informed the President that Kenya is extending an offer of 300 positions in our higher learning institutions to Djiboutian students, at the same fees applicable to Kenyan students,” he stated at a joint press conference with his host, Ismail Guelleh. Ruto also consented to the mutual acceptance of credentials by higher education institutions in both countries. “We have also agreed to expedite the negotiation of a framework that allows for the reciprocal recognition of certificates issued by our respective institutions of higher learning.” He also stated that Kenya will provide the necessary assistance to enable Djibouti integrate English
Physical AGMs remain backburner
Companies are clinging to virtual annual general meetings despite investor pressure for real meetings to resume once the prohibition on sizable indoor gatherings was lifted. Many businesses, particularly those listed on the Nairobi Securities Exchange, have kept up their virtual AGM practice, which they began when Kenya was struck by the Covid-19 outbreak in the middle of 2020. Due to the pandemic, businesses had to ask investors for permission to modify internal policies to permit either in-person or virtual meetings. However, businesses have chosen the virtual alternative even though some shareholders want to see a return to actual meetings. The
New passport printer to cost Ksh70m
The government could not keep up with the enormous demand for passports from Kenyans, thus the Budget and Appropriations Committee suggested the allocation. Even still, the budgeted amount falls short of the projected $200 million needed to buy contemporary printers. The budget and appropriations committee noted in its report on the discussion of estimates of revenue and expenditure for the fiscal year starting July 1 that “The State department for immigration and citizen services could not cope with the number of Kenyans seeking passports to travel abroad for other economic opportunities due to inadequate capacity of the current printer, which
Gap between rich and poor gap widens in Kenya
Income inequality rose to 38.9% in 2021 from 35.8% a year earlier, according to data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics released on Thursday. It is measured using the Gini coefficient and varies from 0%, representing perfect equality, to 100%, representing the most unequal distribution. Inequality fell during the pandemic as higher incomes suffered a greater share of income losses, while the poorest benefited from a temporary benefit increase that ends in early 2021. KNBS data show the extent to which wealth distribution is skewed in favor of smaller groups, with Nairobi having the highest income inequality among Kenya’s
Félicien Kabuga: Rwanda genocide suspect unfit to stand trial, UN court rules
An 88-year-old man suspected of being a significant financier of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda has been declared unable to stand trial by a UN war crimes court. He is reported to have funded ethnic Hutu militias that killed about 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus. He is said to have been Rwanda’s richest man at the time. He disputes the accusations. The president of the organization for Rwandan genocide survivors, Ibuka, told BBC Great Lakes that he was “saddened” by the jury’s verdict. When he was captured, the survivors felt relieved because they believed they would finally receive justice,
Afrithrive honored with Montgomery County Proclamation
The proclamation was presented to CEO Dr. Truphena Choti at the Afrithrive Cultural Farm in Poolesville in the presence of several other small-holder farmers from Montgomery County. “(I celebrate) The immigrant farmers and as the only immigrant farmer at the County Council I am very proud of you for (being able) to get things done and to give back to the community,” said Councilmember Fani-Gonzalez. “You (Afrithrive) and others setting a good example makes me get really emotional because I am so proud. “We arrive at this special place after a very long journey to help shape the future where
Orengo Deputy Impeached for misconduct
As a result of his egregious misconduct and misuse of position, the 42 Siaya County Assembly members unanimously decided to remove him from office. Oduol’s brief tenure as the devolved unit’s second in command is now at the mercy of the Senate, which will determine his destiny. The MCA’s decision came after a report from a special committee investigating his conduct determined that the accusations made against him were true. The embattled DG was criticized by MCAs during the discussion of the report for not appearing and providing his perspective. Nearly all MCAs criticized Oduol for allegedly abusing his position
Kenyans abroad avoiding banks
According to the World Bank, the reduced exchange rate and cash transfer fees in the banking industry are encouraging Kenyans living overseas to use traditional money transfers. According to the international lender, sending Ksh27,806 through banks from the US to Kenya costs Ksh1,549 ($11.14). It continues by stating that banks now pay less per dollar than conventional money transfers and forex bureaus due to the spread, or the difference between the prices at which a dealer buys and sells a currency. Traditional ways are not listed by the World Bank, but the Central Bank of Kenya states informal channels include
Tax proposals will reduce purchasing power-World Bank
It also portends harsher times ahead for businesses struggling with decreased demand as a result of the high cost of goods, as this is likely to exacerbate the current inflationary pressures brought on by an increase in the costs of essential commodities, particularly food and fuel. The Washington-based organization claimed in a new analysis that the current tax measures, which include increasing the normal value-added tax on fuel from eight to sixteen percent, will slow development in the short run. On its 27th Kenya Economic Update, the World Bank stated that private consumption is expected to continue on a robust
KRA given Ksh1.2 billion to hire spies to find tax evaders
In new efforts to increase revenue and reduce reliance on borrowing, the Kenya Revenue Authority has been given an additional Ksh1.2 billion to hire more intelligence and enforcement agents who will detect and apprehend tax fraudsters. When reviewing the budget for the fiscal year that begins in July, the Parliament’s Budget and Appropriations Committee requested from the Treasury additional billions to help the taxman hire more staff. As the Treasury aims to gather at least Ksh400 billion in additional taxes for the fiscal year beginning next month, the personnel will strengthen revenue collection from new scheduled levies and go after
Félicien Kabuga unfit to stand trial, UN court rules
An 88-year-old man suspected of being a significant financier of the 1994 genocide in Rwanda has been declared unable to stand trial by a UN war crimes court. He is reported to have funded ethnic Hutu militias that killed about 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus. He is said to have been Rwanda’s richest man at the time. He disputes the accusations. The president of the organization for Rwandan genocide survivors, Ibuka, told BBC Great Lakes that he was “saddened” by the jury’s verdict. When he was captured, the survivors felt relieved because they believed they would finally receive justice, according
Ksh45bn fuel subsidy arrears turned into bonds
According to individuals acquainted with the situation, the companies want their estimated Ksh45 billion in arrears to be converted into a three-year debt instrument that will provide them the chance to pay interest on a regular basis during that time. The arrangement is viewed as mutually beneficial since it will protect a government under financial stress from having to raise the billions up front while giving gasoline dealers recurring interest payments over the course of three years. Marketers could earn interest of around Ksh6.25 billion in the first year if their arrears would be set at the market rate given
CBK approves Faraja lending product.
After nearly a year of waiting for regulatory approval, the Faraja product will be released later this month. It is owned by EDOMx Ltd, a financial technology company with offices in Kenya, and Safaricom and Equity Bank are named as its partners. The CBK’s approval of Faraja lending program,comes after EDOMx was granted clearance as a digital credit provider in March in accordance with legislation released last year that permit the central bank to regulate fintech in order to reign in predatory lending and invasions of consumer privacy. Before a September deadline passed, which called for the digital lenders to
Illegal police promotions by IG Koome
The promotion of at least 500 officers by Inspector General of Police Japheth Koome has been ruled illegal by the National Police Service Commission since it was not involved. However, the promotions were promptly cancelled by Police Commission Chairman Eliud Kinuthia through CEO Peter Leley. In a statement, Leley claimed that the advancements were against Article 246 of Kenya’s 2010 Constitution, the 2015 Promotion Regulations of the National Police Service Commission, Chapter 34 of the National Police Service Standing Orders of 2017, and the National Police Service Career Guidelines. Koome, he claimed, “has no such authority in law” because the
I was wrongly dismissed-PS Mburu
Mburu was testifying before the Senate Health Committee, which is presided over by Senator Jackson Mandago of Uasin Gishu, to address claims of anomalies in KEMSA’s acquisition of long-lasting insecticidal nets. The former PS said she was wrongfully terminated and demanded a fair hearing when testifying before the Committee on Tuesday, June 6. “I was not a part of the procedure. I was informed that the new government had to carry on the procedure that had already begun. I think the personnel provided sound advice,” Mburu said. “When I watched on television, it shocked me. I appreciate President Ruto allowing
State abandons proposal to privatize sugar firms
The government is now leaning toward a leasing model, according to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who stated that Kenyans and sugarcane farmers are not enthusiastic about the privatization of any of the State-owned sugar firms. The Kenyan people and farmers in the sugar belt were given full public involvement consideration by the Ministry. As a result, Mr. Gachagua stated during a meeting of the intergovernmental budget and economic council on Monday that they are not interested in privatization and would rather use a leasing model. He mentioned that the Ministry of Agriculture had agreed to the requests of the people
Sameer to get Ksh879m after land sale
The corporation, which has been carrying the land at the historical cost of merely Ksh15 million rather than the current market value, is anticipated to make a sizable profit from the transaction. 3.75 acres of undeveloped leasehold land are included among the assets held for sale. The sale began in 2022 and is anticipated to be completed by the third quarter of 2023, according to the Nairobi Securities Exchange-listed company’s most recent annual report. “The asset held for sale is estimated to have a fair value of Ksh879,036,000,” Sameer continued. The corporation had stated in 2021 that it was considering
Equity Bank loses 1 billion tax dispute to KRA
Invoice and bill discounting, temporary overdrafts, cleared checks, letters of credit, bank guarantees, and loan and credit evaluation reviews all fall under the Income Tax Act’s definition of interest, Justice David Majanja concurred with the Kenya Revenue Authority. The taxman filed an appeal with the High Court after the Tax Appeals Tribunal decided in Equity Bank’s favor in a ruling made in March of last year. The judge concluded that the tribunal erred in concluding that the fees levied by the lender in relation to the transactions were interest and, as a result, exempt from excise duty by relying on
Counties to receive Ksh33 billion for April allocation this week.
The news coincides with new fears that the devolved entities will be shut down because the Treasury has not given the counties the money they need. The counties are owed Ksh94.35 billion as allocations for April, May, and June, according to Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, who spoke after a meeting of the intergovernmental budget and economic council on Monday. The Treasury would disburse the April allocation by the end of the week, and another Ksh31.4 billion for May by 19 June 2023, according to an agreement made at the meeting. The Exchequer has already paid out Ksh305.25 billion to the
Azimio warn Ruto over grand Mt. Kenya region mistreatment
The meeting took note of the desire of the people of Mt. Kenya to have a healthy political environment like other Kenyans. Unfortunately, this desire is being thwarted by the KK regime. It must stop. Whereas the Constitution under Article 37 gives the people of Kenya the right to peacefully assemble, demonstrate, picket, and present petitions to public authorities, the actions of this regime indicate a determination to deny the same to the people of Mt. Kenya. We saw this during the questioning of Maina Njenga at DCI on 25 May 2023 and the subsequent court appearance in Nakuru. Maina’s
University freshmen and state funding
According to Geoffrey Monari, CEO of University Funding, a needs assessment of all 2022 KCSE applicants who scored C+ and above would be undertaken in August after the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service completes its placement in mid-July. UF and the Higher Education Loans Board will jointly categorize applicants into four groups on which scholarships and loans will be distributed. The four categories are vulnerable, extremely needy, needy, and less needy. The new model will utilize eight characteristics to determine whether poor households receive more assistance than well-off households, including parents’ background, gender, course type, marginalization, handicap, and
22 new mass graves discovered in Shakahola
Kindiki stated that the detectives will begin the third round of exhumation tomorrow, amid fears that more people are still buried in hidden graves. “All buried bodies will be exhumed and postmortem on them,no matter how long it takes,” said Kindiki. On Sunday, the CS addressed in Sagana during a church service at Kenya Assemblies of God church in Ndia Constituency, Kirinyaga County. He stated that all exhumed bodies had undergone postmortem examination. “It’s a sad reality, but we’ll leave no stone unturned until we find out the truth. So far, over 242 people have lost their lives in Shakahola,
NHIF irregular tendering of multi-billion insurance
The NHIF published a tender for public servant and National Youth Service insurance despite the ministry’s advice. It has been revealed that NHIF’s decision to extend the tender for three months went against the ministry’s guidance, which wanted the tender extended for a year. On Tuesday, NHIF issued an advertisement for the supply of co-insurance and facultative insurance services for the Work Injury Benefits Act and Group Personal Accident for public officials and NYS personnel. The insurance was supposed to cover 120,047 officers, which included 81,388 government servants, NYS employees, and 38,659 devolved staff. According to records, the move could
Orengo wants his deputy investigated by EACC
Orengo, who dissaproved allegations of financial mismanagement that have shaken his administration, defended his administration and urged the EACC to look into all the allegations. The new development ushers in a new chapter in the long-running dispute that imperils Orengo’s aspirational platform. During a news conference on Friday, 2 June 2023, Orengo stated that he has ordered the EACC to look into any allegations that his deputy submitted misleading information to government agencies in order to paint his administration in a negative light. The governor requested that EACC conduct a comprehensive investigation of the deputy governor’s involvement in preside over
US Senate approves debt ceiling, prevents default
One day after passing the US House of Representatives, the bipartisan resolution was swiftly passed in the Senate by a vote of 63-36. According to president Joe Biden, the measure will become law. With his signature on the bill, the US will avoid a disastrous default on its $31.4 trillion (£25 trillion) in debt. On Monday 5 June 2023, the nation is anticipated to exceed its current debt cap. In the event of a default, the government wouldn’t be able to borrow more money or cover all of its obligations. Additionally, it might perhaps cause turmoil abroad by impacting pricing
Man City beat Man Utd to win the FA Cup
City, having already won the Premier League, will face Inter Milan in the Champions League final next Saturday in Istanbul, with the chance to repeat United’s accomplishment of 1999. And City captain Gundogan was the game-winner once more, ensuring his place in history with the quickest goal in FA Cup final history, a magnificent volley after only 12 seconds, surpassing Louis Saha’s strike for Everton after 25 seconds against Chelsea in 2009. After 33 minutes, the video assistant referee determined that Jack Grealish had handled, and Bruno Fernandes calmly sent Stefan Ortega the wrong way from the spot. The pivotal
Gold merchant want Amadi removed as judge for fraud
Demetrios Bradshaw, a director of Bruton Gold Trading LLC, has petitioned the JSC to remove Ms. Amadi for alleged Gold fraud. In a case currently ongoing in the High Court, Mr. Bradshaw is requesting the return of more than Ksh100 million that he claims was paid in a gold scam to the legal team of Amadi and Associates. Justice Alfred Mabeya prolonged the order freezing Ms. Amadi’s and the law firm’s accounts on Friday until June 9, when he will decide on her request for the accounts to be unfrozen and the lawsuit to be dismissed. The petition demands that
Ksh1.4 trillion ports lease plan,as Ruto make U-turn
In what appears to be a U-turn on the previous administration’s proposal to hand over ports to private investors, the Kenya Development Corporation, has revealed that the Kenya Kwanza administration is looking for private players. KDC is now seeking to have private entities run sections of Kilindini Harbour, Dongo Kundu Port, Lamu Port, Kisumu Port, and Shimoni Fisheries Port in order to make the northern corridor more competitive. “The ports face the challenge of congestion and, as a result, longer cargo dwell times. The ports will be leased/contracted to private operators with a landlord-type port management system,” the KDC says
Fertilizer factory launched in Mumias
Kakamega County Government in conjuction with the United States Government today has launched the construction of a company to manufacture fertilizer from waste in Matawa area, Mumias West. Speaking on the event, the ambassador of the united states in Kenya, Margaret whiteman, said that his government has committed to partner with the government of Kenya to make different developments and through this fertilizer manufacturing company, it will help this nation to increase food production. Meanwhile, the Governor of Kakamega County Fernandes Barasa has said this company will help clean up the environment, create job opportunities and raise the economy in
Ruto government raises electricity prices by 67%
The average cost of 50 kWh of power has climbed from Sh796.83 in August of last year to a mean of Sh1,326.54 at the end of May, according to statistics from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) analyzed by Business Daily. With electricity inflation recorded at 66.5% last month, this has seen the cost of power impose the largest pressure on consumer spending. In contrast to larger consumers, consumers with smaller electricity consumption have been hit hardest by growing power prices, with the price of 200 units of electricity rising by a lower 47.2% last month to Sh6,436.28 from
Hustler Fund for Chamas launched by Ruto
Towards the end of his speech, the President unveiled the Hustler Chama Loan, which will be distributed through cooperatives and groups to assist members to grow their companies and raise their standard of living. According to him, loans are being offered in this stage of the hustler program starting at a minimum of Sh50,000 and going up to Sh1 million. Dr. Ruto described the Hustler fund’s initial phase as groundbreaking and stated that loans will be determined by the group members’ average credit scores. The President mentioned that the Credit Reference Bureau has banned nearly 10 million Kenyans, preventing them
The exorbitant expense of living is keeping me up at night, says President Ruto
The Head of State stated that the cost of living is a key priority for his office and acknowledged the worries and concerns of Kenyans about it. Ruto said, “The cost of living is keeping all leaders awake, including myself, and this is exactly as it should be,” on June 1 during the Madaraka Day celebration in Embu. The president also praised Kenya’s standing as a trailblazing country that excels at holding in-depth conversations on important political subjects like the Finance Bill and the Affordable Housing Policy. “This vibrant national debate sets an inspiring example for others, reaffirming Kenya’s position
Why employers will face difficulties as of July 1
In the new tax mobilization and social welfare funds that the William Ruto administration is creating, employers will be one of the most severely impacted groups. The measures will raise the cost of paying employees, which will affect businesses’ operating expenses and the bar for raising wages and adding new positions. The Finance Bill promises to harm employers by increasing statutory deductions, raising tax rates, and tightening tax regulations. Statutory deductions that are added on Employers will be responsible for half of the burden associated with the National Housing Development Fund required deductions. Employers will never be reimbursed for such
May inflation climbs to 8% on rising food, energy costs
The cost of living measure increased slightly in May by 0.1% on soaring food, energy and transport costs. The inflation rate stood at 8% from 7.9% in April when it had declined to a 10-month low at the onset of rains. According to Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) data, the price changes in food, energy and transport, which cover about 57% of household budgets, peaked at 10.2%, 9.7% and 10.1%, respectively. Housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels, which make up the energy index, and transport were fueled by an increase in the cost of petroleum products, with petrol,
Delays in Passport Printing Affect Kenyans Seeking to Travel
The delay in passport printing is having a far-reaching impact on Kenyans seeking to travel abroad. Those seeking to acquire passports have encountered difficulty for more than two months since a printer broke down at Nyayo House in Nairobi. The Immigration Department has yet to repair it and those looking to obtain a passport have been stuck with limited options.The machine that still works is capable of printing 34-page passports, and while the department had received the booklets necessary for printing the 66-page and 50-page passports last Friday, those seeking the larger documents will still be left disappointed by the
Kenya to roll out a million locally assembled smartphones in 2 months
ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo said the affordability of smart devices has been a major hindrance to digital inclusion, hence the need to produce the gadgets locally. He said the low-cost smartphones are being assembled at the Konza Technopolis in Malili, Machakos County and will retail at $40 (Sh5,484 at the current exchange rate). “Based on feasibility studies undertaken, we can locally assemble smartphones at a unit cost of about $40. We’ve partnered with the private sector to ensure in the next two months, we can roll out our first consignment of low-cost smartphones,” said Mr Owalo during the official
Storm over State plan to tax insurance payouts
Insurance customers will start parting with 16% 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 Finance Bill 2023 is proposing to introduce a new sub-section to section 17 of the Value Added Tax (VAT) Act to allow for the owner of taxable supplies who is compensated for the loss of the goods to pay 16% VAT. “Where a bona fide owner of taxable supplies, who has deducted input tax under subsection (1), is compensated for the loss of the
President Biden pushes President Ruto to open doors for US professionals
The US government is pushing Kenya to smoothen the licensing regime for American professionals seeking to set up shop in the country as part of ongoing negotiations for a proposed bilateral trade deal. The US negotiators want Kenya to improve transparency and fairness of processes for licensing American professionals such as accountants, lawyers, engineers and architects to provide services. Washington argues difficulties in getting permits in a foreign jurisdiction like Kenya could be a barrier to small firms seeking to export services. The clause aimed at growing trade in services is part of the text tabled by the Biden administration
Ndegwas overtake Kenyattas in NCBA stake
The Philip Ndegwa family has bought an additional 31.6 million shares of NCBA Group with a current market value of Sh1 billion in transactions that have seen them overtake the Jomo Kenyatta family to become the bank’s top shareholder. The Ndegwas’ investment vehicle First Chartered Securities raised its stake in the lender to 14.44% –currently worth Sh8 billion— in the year ended December 2022 according to disclosures in the company’s latest annual report. This was up from the 12.52% stake that First Chartered held a year earlier. The Kenyattas’ investment vehicle Enke meanwhile maintained its ownership at 13.2% which is
Safaricom plans to set up smartphone factory
Safaricom has revealed that it is setting up a factory in Kenya, which will assemble between 1.2 million and 1.4 million smartphones a year, making it one the biggest players lining up to implement President William Ruto’s plan of producing Africa’s cheapest gadgets. Appearing before the National Assembly’s Finance and Planning committee on Tuesday, the telco put up a spirited fight against new taxes on mobile phones as contained in the Finance Bill, 2023, arguing that it will be impossible to achieve the target price of a $ 50-smartphone (Sh6,850) since the proposed taxes will raise the cost of locally
Chinese hackers attacked Kenya in part to assess debt – Reuters
Chinese hackers targeted Kenya’s government in a widespread, years-long series of digital intrusions against key ministries and state institutions, according to three sources, cybersecurity research reports and Reuters’ own analysis of technical data related to the hackings. Two of the sources assessed the hacks to be aimed, at least in part, at gaining information on debt owed to Beijing by the East African nation: Kenya is a strategic link in the Belt and Road Initiative – President Xi Jinping’s plan for a global infrastructure network. “Further compromises may occur as the requirement for understanding upcoming repayment strategies becomes needed,” a
Sudan ceasefire: Khartoum largely quiet
The latest ceasefire aimed at ending the devastating conflict in Sudan appears to be largely holding in the capital and two adjacent cities. For the first time in more than five weeks there appears to be relative peace, residents say. But there have been some breaches of the truce in Khartoum, and across the River Nile in Bahri and Omdurman. The military carried out air strikes minutes after the ceasefire came into force on Monday evening. The air strikes, targeting the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), have since stopped. However, sporadic artillery fire could still be heard in Khartoum, residents
G7 Summit: Africa seeks new role as nations eye its resources
Africa will not accept that it “should just continue to be a source of raw materials” for the rest of the world, the African Union’s Trade Commissioner has told the BBC. Albert Muchanga says instead his continent wants a future of “genuine and mutually beneficial relationships” with its trade partners. It comes as the AU’s chair has been invited to the G7 summit in Japan amid intensifying competition with China for Africa’s natural resources. With Western powers seeking greater trade links with the continent, there have been visits to a host of African countries in the run-up to the summit
Sudan warring factions agree seven-day ceasefire, US says
A temporary ceasefire in Sudan has been agreed as fighting between two warring factions entered its sixth week. Previous truce attempts between Sudan’s regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) have tended to collapse within minutes of beginning. But the new deal will be enforced by a “ceasefire monitoring mechanism,” according to a US-Saudi statement. As part of the seven-day humanitarian ceasefire, Sudanese officials have agreed to restore essential services. Fighting between the two sides has plunged the country into chaos since it began last month, with more than a million people thought to have been displaced. Qatar
Rwanda top profit earner for Kenyan banks
Rwanda contributed the highest volume of profit earnings for Kenyan bank subsidiaries in East Africa and beyond last year, a new report by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) said. The CBK said the regional subsidiaries of Kenyan banks posted a combined pre-tax profit of Sh32.51 billion as of December 31, 2022, an increase of 88.65% from Sh.17.23 billion reported on December 31, 2021. “Rwanda contributed the highest earnings capacity recording Sh.10.16 billion in profits, translating to 31.26% of the total profits. Subsidiaries operating in DRC (Democratic Republic of Congo) and Uganda contributed 30.10% and 16.11% of the total profits
Four counties hold 55% of all bank branches in Kenya
Four counties account for more than half of all the bank branches in Kenya, revealing the concentration of wealth in a few parts of the country. Data from the Annual Banking Sector Supervision report by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) reveals the four counties — Nairobi, Mombasa, Kiambu and Nakuru — had 819 branches in 2022, out of the 1,475 outlets, which account for 55.5% of total bank branches in Kenya. The concentration of banks in a few counties highlights the economic inequality experienced in the country where areas away from commercial hubs are underserved by financial institutions. The
Yunia Oseko burial saga: Family wants KCB to act on employee
The family, through Patrick Ondieki Oseko, who is the eldest son of the deceased’s has written a letter requesting that KCB helps to get their brother – Joseph Ngala Oseko, one of the managers of the bank to surrender an yet-to-disclosed amount of money which he had collected from the public and wellwishers towards the burial. Kurunzi understands that Joseph Oseko has been against his mother’s burial citing a land dispute but now his elder brother says the bank must intervene and have the money that was collected relinquished for the mother to be interred on 9th June. Currently, the
Global warming set to break key 1.5C limit for first time
Our overheating world is likely to break a key temperature limit for the first time over the next few years, scientists predict. Researchers say there’s now a 66% chance we will pass the 1.5C global warming threshold between now and 2027. The chances are rising due to emissions from human activities and a change in weather patterns expected this summer. If the world passes the limit, scientists stress the breach, while worrying, will likely be temporary. Hitting the threshold would mean the world is 1.5C warmer than it was during the second half of the 19th Century, before fossil fuel
Kenya Power resumes Sh26.76bn cheap electricity project
Kenya Power has resumed the fourth phase of the last mile project that connects homes to the national grid at a subsidised cost which was stopped after local contractors were locked out. Local contractors moved to Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPARB) in 2020 to challenge the project citing unfair treatment in the tendering process, delaying the project. PPARB terminated the contract in February 2020 and ordered Kenya Power to retender within 45 days from the date of this decision which the distributor did not do. The loss-making firm has now cancelled the 2020 tenders and invited new bids that should
Safaricom to buy M-Pesa cash firm from Vodafone
Safaricom is set to buy M-Pesa Holding Company Limited — the firm that holds hundreds of billions of shillings powering its mobile money service — from London-based Vodafone Group Plc. The Nairobi Securities Exchange-listed company will pay the British multinational –which was previously it’s top shareholder— a token amount of $1 in the transaction deal to receive regulatory approvals in the next few weeks. The transaction, disclosed by Vodafone, has the potential to boost Safaricom’s cash flows besides earning the company interest income through investment of part of the M-Pesa war chest in short-term securities. “On 17 April 2023, the
Changes in pump prices after President Ruto proposes 16 percent VAT
Pump prices will nearly breach the Sh200 per litre mark if Parliament approves a proposal by President William Ruto’s administration to double Value Added Tax (VAT) on fuel in a plan that could make Kenya have the highest prices in the region. An analysis by the Business Daily shows that a litre of Super will rise by Sh13.51 to Sh196.21 after the additional taxes while diesel will increase by Sh12.40 to Sh180.88 if lawmakers adopted the proposal in the Finance Bill to double VAT to 16%. In total, it is projected that VAT collections will double to an estimated Sh128.98
Kenya seeks $600 million loan from International Banks
The Kenyan President William Ruto is seeking a $600 million loan from International Banks to help plug the budget deficit for the 2022/23 financial year. The loan is expected to hit Central Bank of Kenya’s accounts “in the coming weeks”, according to sources familiar with the transaction. According to a local newspaper, the central bank of Kenya (CBK) is expected to receive a credit facility from several leading banks in order to bolster its foreign currency reserves. CitiGroup, Rand Merchant Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, and Standard Bank are said to be the transaction advisors for the loan. This move comes
Raila Odinga: Why former PM was relieved from the African Union role
Raila Odinga, former Prime Minister of Kenya and the leader of the opposition was relieved of his duties as the High Representative for Infrastructure Development by the African Union Commission (AUC) on February 23, 2023. The discontinuation of the position was confirmed in a letter to Mr. Odinga from the Chairperson of the Commission, H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, on 8 February 2019. In the letter, the Chairperson thanked Mr. Odinga for his commitment and contribution to the work of the Commission, in particular, his role in chairing the High-Level Panel on Infrastructure (HLPI) which provided valuable insights and guidance on
Nigeria Elections: Can Peter Obi win the presidency?
It is still too early to say whether Peter Obi of the Labour Party can win the 2023 Nigeria presidential elections, which took place on 25 February 25 but there is no denying that he has shaken up the country’s politics. Hitherto dominated by two major parties since the end of military rule in 1999, Nigeria’s political dynamics going into this election are such that outsider Obi has given a very good account of himself but analysts suggest he still faces an uphill struggle. Obi, who is from a relatively new and small party, is hoping to defeat the two
Raila Odinga: Why former PM was relieved from the African Union role
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga is no longer the Africa Union’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development, following an announcement by the AU Commission on 23 February 2023. Odinga took up the role in October 2018, only a few months after the handshake deal with former President Uhuru Kenyatta, which ended the then anti-government civil disobedience campaign. Commission chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, explained the position was no longer required since the the AU Development Agency Act 2019 established the African Union Development Agency as its specialized agency for infrastructure development. AUDA marks a transition from the New Partnership for Africa’s Development
Revealing what led to Githii Mburu’s resignation as KRA boss
Kenya Revenue Authority Commissioner General Githii Mburu’s resignation has come as a shock to many because the man has been credited with turning around the tax agency from one riddled with corruption and inefficiency to a better entity serving the public. Those familiar with the goings-on at Times Tower give testimony to a rein that had positives and challenges in, almost, equal measure. His tenure was characterized, not just, by significant progress in increasing tax compliance and collections but also controversy, including allegations of corruption and misuse of power. So what really led to Mburu’s departure? Kurunzi understands that the
Facebook owner Meta launches paid subscription, for whom and why?
Meta platform users will soon be able to follow in Twitter denizens’ footsteps in affixing a blue badge to their profiles as a token of authenticity and boosting their posts — all for a fee. Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg announced the subscription service for platforms Facebook and Instagram on Sunday, after almost 20 years of defending an economic model based on free services and advertising. Two-speed system Subscribers to Meta Verified will be able to verify their account on Facebook and Instagram by providing an official ID and getting a blue badge, indicating they are who they say they are.