AIRTEL CUSTOMERS CAN NOW EARN FROM REFERRING FRIENDS TO THE MY AIRTEL APP

Airtel customers can now earn from referring family and friends to the MyAirtel App through a newly launched referral offer.

Dubbed Refer and Earn, the offer allows MyAirtel App users to share a referral link or code with friends, who will immediately receive 1GB of free data upon sign-up for the first time. The person referring will earn Ksh 20 monthly, for five months, paid into their Airtel Money wallet. This payment will be made once their referred friends purchase airtime or data worth Ksh 100 or more via the app.

“At Airtel Kenya, we continue to invest in our network, products, and services to deliver the best value to our customers. Digital transformation remains a key priority, and we are constantly enhancing our digital platforms to ensure all our offerings are easily accessible on the app. The MyAirtel App provides a seamless, user-friendly experience that enhances convenience and drives digital adoption,” said Airtel Kenya Managing Director Ashish Malhotra.

On the Mobile Money front, this offer enables customers to refer multiple friends, unlocking ongoing earning potential and complements the existing cashback program dubbed Airtel Money ‘Rudishiwa,’ which offers 50% guaranteed cashback on transaction fees for all bill payments, all bank-to-wallet transfers, and all withdrawals done at any of the over 260,000 Airtel Money agents countrywide.

“Mobile money in Kenya has evolved from a simple platform for person-to-person transfers into a comprehensive wallet supporting everyday transactions. This offer is designed to drive app downloads to meet these evolving needs all under one platform while encouraging consistent app usage,” said Airtel Money Managing Director Anne Kinuthia-Otieno.

On the My Airtel App, customers can also enjoy app-exclusive offers such as 2GB valid for three days. The App works with any SIM slot and is accessible on Wi-Fi and Data even without active bundles, ensuring continued connectivity. It also allows customers to seamlessly send money to any network, its simple, user-friendly interface enables instant Airtel Money transactions, allows users to order, activate and top up home broadband (HBB) devices, and manage multiple HBB accounts and mobile numbers on a single platform. In addition, built-in data management features help customers control usage and avoid out-of-bundle charges.

PAYKIT LAUNCHES IN KENYA

Payments platform PayKit has launched in Kenya to help businesses manage complex, high-volume transactions more efficiently. Built to support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and digital platforms, PayKit is positioning itself as the infrastructure layer for businesses that need to move money at scale.

Development began in 2023 and over the past three years the company has continuously refined its technology in response to market demand. During this period, the company focused on setting up its operations and securing the necessary regulatory approvals to operate in Kenya. This evolution took place against the backdrop of Kenya’s position as a global leader in digital payments, where mobile money penetration now exceeds 98% of the adult population, with more than 51 million active accounts, according to the Communications Authority of Kenya. Annual transaction volumes surpass KES 8.6 trillion. 

However, even with this scale and sophistication, a persistent gap exists for businesses managing complex flows of money. This gap is particularly significant given the trajectory of the broader market. Kenya’s digital payments ecosystem continues to expand rapidly, mirroring a continental trend where Africa’s digital payments market is projected to reach approximately $1.5 trillion (about KES 193 trillion) by 2030, driven by rising mobile adoption, e-commerce growth and deepening financial inclusion.

Despite this progress, most payment service providers in Kenya and the wider African continent still focus primarily on consumer-facing wallets or basic collections solutions. This leaves many businesses, especially SMEs, without the infrastructure required to manage more complex financial operations. This is especially important because Kenya has approximately 7.4 million MSMEs, which constitute about 98 percent of all business entities in the country, as per data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics. These enterprises are vital to the economy, contributing roughly 30 – 40 percent to the GDP and employing over 14.9 million people. 

“Digital payments in Kenya have largely solved access. The next challenge is scale and efficiency because businesses today need need to send, reconcile, settle and manage funds across multiple channels and currencies in real time, in addition to receiving payments,” said PayKit’s CEO Beatrice Okeyo 

PayKit responds to the challenge by enabling high-volume disbursements, allowing businesses to pay suppliers and employees quickly and reliably. It also supports faster settlement, helping companies improve cash flow.

Regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya, the platform offers multi-currency capabilities, which are becoming increasingly important as Kenyan businesses expand across borders. The growth of regional trade, alongside the emergence of new payment corridors, now requires businesses to work with systems that can handle cross-border transactions seamlessly. 

Another key feature of the platform is intelligent reconciliation, which saves businesses from manual processes in matching payments with transactions, processes that often create inefficiencies and errors. PayKit automates reconciliation, giving companies better visibility and control over their financial operations.

In the past 2.5 months, PayKit has conducted a pilot phase, processing approximately KES 30 million in transaction value, demonstrating early traction and validation of its platform.

“There is a clear need for more advanced payment infrastructure because many businesses in Kenya, and indeed most of Africa, continue to face challenges such as limited interoperability and high operational overheads. In many sectors, cash and manual processes still play a significant role, highlighting the gap between access to digital payments and the ability to use them efficiently at scale. This is the gap that PayKit sufficiently bridges,” noted Ms. Beatrice

Looking ahead, PayKit has set ambitious growth targets, aiming to process between 50 million and 60 million transactions across its merchant portal and mobile application by the end of the year.

The company also plans to onboard approximately 15,000 merchants within the same period, while targeting 500,000 mobile app downloads as it scales adoption

PayKit’s focus comes at a time when Kenya’s payments ecosystem is maturing. Having gained traction during its pilot, the company’s next phase of growth is envisioned to make it a trusted partner for businesses in Kenya and across Africa.

Beyond Kenya, PayKit is already evaluating regional expansion opportunities within the next 18 to 24 months, with Rwanda identified as a priority market due to its enabling regulatory environment, which allows payment service providers to operate more seamlessly without the need to register afresh in the country.

UDA SET TO HOLD REPEAT GRASSROOT ELECTIONS TOMORROW AND SATURDAY

The rulling party will hold a repeat of it's grassroot elections following last year June elections which left some areas out,this will commence tomorrow Wednesday 23 April and expected to onboard 580 thousands members by the end of the exercise.

This repeat elections will be held in eighteen counties,kisii,siaya,migori,makueni, machakos,kwale,kilifi,lamu among others while kajiado repeat will be held on Saturday.

According to rulling party chairperson Cecily mbarire over eight million voters will participate in the phase two of the election which has already been conducted in 25 counties.

The voting starts at 8 am and is expected to close at 5pm.It will deploy the best technology to avoid malpractice.The party is urging it's members to maintain peace during the exercise to ensure free and fair elections.

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC SHOWCASES CLIMATE SMART VILLAGE MODEL REAFFIRMING COMMITMENT TO AFRICAS INCLUSIVE ENERGY TRANSITION

As millions of people globally still lacking access to electricity  with Sub Saharan Africa accounting for the largest share of the gap   Schneider Electric has reaffirmed its commitment to an inclusive energy transition across the region.

Speaking during a media session on the sidelines of the energy forum the president schneider  highlighted how the company is accelerating access to affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy while driving long term socio economic and climate resilience in underserved communities.

EAIF 2026 comes as Africa intensifies efforts to close its energy access deficit accelerating its transition to clean, reliable, and inclusive energy systems. Achieving universal access by 2030 will require accelerated deployment of distributed renewable energy solutions, alongside stronger collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders.

At the forum, Schneider Electric will showcase its portfolio of decentralized energy solutions designed to bridge the energy access gap. Central to its EAIF presence is the Climate Smart Village model  an innovative, community centered approach that combines technology, local engagement, and sustainable development to deliver measurable impact on livelihoods.

The model integrates solar microgrids, energy-efficient productive-use equipment, water pumping, cold storage, and digital monitoring, all tailored to community needs. By linking energy access with agriculture, health, education, and small enterprise, the approach aims to create climate resilience and income generation beyond basic lighting.

Schneider Electric’s session aligns with broader forum themes, including blended finance, productive use of energy, and commercial and  industrial applications. EAIF has evolved since 2016 into a key deal making platform for renewable electrification across Africa.

With 2030 universal access targets looming, stakeholders at EAIF 2026 are expected to push for faster project preparation and financing.

Schneider Electric’s Climate Smart Village model will be presented as a replicable blueprint for counties and rural districts seeking to combine energy, water, and livelihoods interventions. The company says its decentralized solutions are already deployed across multiple Sub-Saharan markets, with EAIF 2026 marking a renewed push to scale through partnerships.

AFRICA PUSHES FOR BANKABLE CLEAN ENERGY AS NAIROBI HOSTS ENERGY ACCESS INVESTMENT FORUM

Nairobi plays host to the Energy Access Investment Forum (EAIF) 2026 from April 21 to 24 at Safari Park Hotel, bringing together over 1,000 investors, policymakers, utilities, and energy innovators to accelerate renewable electrification across Africa. 

Organised by the Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE) and co-hosted by the European Union and Kenya’s Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, EAIF is the top annual investment event fostering partnerships for energy access, productive use, commercial and industrial power, and the green energy transition.

The European Union Delegation to Kenya, led by Ambassador H.E. Henriette Geiger, said the forum reflects a broader push to scale up investment in sustainable energy under the Global Gateway framework. “EAIF provides a practical platform for translating policy ambition into bankable projects by connecting public and private capital to emerging energy markets,” she said.

The 2026 edition is expected to draw private equity firms, development financiers, government representatives and industry executives for deal-making sessions, exhibitions, and structured networking aimed at unlocking financing for clean energy projects. 

A key highlight will be the launch of COMESA’s ASCENT Project Preparation Facility, a US$25 million World Bank–funded initiative aimed at boosting renewable electrification across Eastern and Southern Africa. The ASCENT PPF will provide technical support to developers to ensure proposed initiatives are well structured, bankable, and ready for financing. Cygnum Capital has been appointed Fund Manager to oversee the portfolio and ensure projects meet international investment standards.

Africa faces one of the world’s largest energy access gaps, with around 600 million people lacking electricity and more than a billion without clean cooking solutions. EAIF has evolved since 2016 into a key platform for structuring energy access deals, particularly in renewable electrification and productive use of energy.

AGA KHAN FOUNDATION SIGNS PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENT WITH PORTUGAL TO ADVANCE COASTAL RESILIENCE AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN KENYA

The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) has signed a partnership agreement with the Camões Institute the Portuguese Cooperation Agency to support the ‘Gazi Bay Coastal Restoration and Eco-Tourism Initiative (G-CORE)’ in Kwale County, Kenya.

The partnership agreement signed during a visit to Kenya, will support coastal ecosystem restoration and community-led development in Kenya.

“The Aga Khan Development Network remains committed to working with partners across sectors to advance climate resilience, environmental stewardship, and inclusive development across the regions it serves. The visit by His Excellency Mr. Paulo Rangel, Minister of State and Foreign Affairs of the Portuguese Republic, underscores the deepening engagement between Portugal, Kenya and the Aga Khan Development Network and reflects a shared commitment to advancing sustainable development, climate resilience and inclusive economic growth,” said Amin Mawji, Diplomatic Representative of the Aga Khan Development Network in East Africa.

Through G-CORE, AKF Kenya and its partners are implementing a community-led approach that combines ecological restoration with economic opportunity. Activities include planting approximately 65,000 mangrove seedlings across six hectares, as part of AKF’s broader effort to restore 226 hectares of mangrove forest in Gazi Bay in partnership with the Kenya Forest Service, alongside training community members in conservation practices, upgrading eco-tourism infrastructure such as the Gazi Boardwalk and strengthening local enterprises, with a particular focus on women and youth. 

This initiative forms part of AKF’s broader Indian Ocean ‘ReGeneration’ Initiative and focuses on restoring degraded mangrove ecosystems while strengthening community livelihoods through sustainable eco-tourism.

Gazi Bay, a critical coastal ecosystem, has experienced significant degradation due to deforestation, altered hydrology and coastal erosion, compounded by climate-related pressures such as rising sea levels and storms. These challenges have adversely affected both biodiversity and the livelihoods of local communities. 

Portugal’s contribution through the Camões Institute will partially fund the initiative, aligning with shared priorities on climate adaptation, marine conservation and the development of Kenya’s blue economy.

ABSA BANK KENYA PARTNERS WITH WORLD NAVI TO SIMPLIFY VEHICLE IMPORTATION

Absa Bank Kenya has announced a strategic partnership with World Navi, a global vehicle exporter headquartered in Japan. This collaboration, delivered through Absa’s Asset-Based Finance (ABF) offering, is set to transform the vehicle importation experience for Kenyan customers by making the process more accessible, efficient, and financially manageable.

The partnership integrates financing and vehicle sourcing into a single, seamless solution. Customers can directly import vehicles through World Navi while accessing structured asset financing from Absa Bank, simplifying what has traditionally been a complex and fragmented process.

“A growing number of Kenyans are opting to import vehicles directly from Japan due to the availability of high-quality units, competitive pricing, and a wider range of models. However, the process has traditionally been complex, often involving high upfront costs, fluctuating shipping expenses, and extended delivery timelines,” said Renato D’souza, Absa Bank Kenya Business Banking Director, during the signing ceremony in Nairobi.

“Through this partnership, we are seeking to address these challenges by offering an integrated solution that combines trusted vehicle sourcing with tailored financing support,” he added.

Customers will be able to access import financing that covers key upfront costs, including vehicle purchase and shipping expenses. This allows them to preserve working capital and better manage cash flow while still acquiring the vehicles they need. Additionally, customers will benefit from access to reputable, quality‑checked vehicles through a trusted partner and enjoy a smoother, guided process from Japan to Kenya.

On his part, World Navi Co. Ltd Managing Director Yoshifumi Sawada, said: “This partnership with Absa Bank Kenya represents a defining step for World Navi as we bring together our global vehicle sourcing expertise with Absa’s strong asset financing capabilities to deliver a seamless, trusted, and customer-centric importation experience. It not only expands access to high-quality vehicles for individuals, SMEs, and corporates, but also sets a new standard for industry by integrating financing and supply into one streamlined solution that prioritizes reliability, transparency, and value. Together, we are making the importation journey simpler, faster, and more predictable for Kenyan customers."

By leveraging World Navi’s expertise as a reputable global exporter, customers are assured of vehicles that meet international standards. The streamlined process is also expected to significantly reduce turnaround times, enabling faster delivery compared to traditional import channels.

Absa’s Asset-Based Finance (ABF) offers attractive financing options, including:

Up to 95% financing on general motor vehicle units.

90% financing on Chinese/Indian models.

100% loan-to-value (LTV) financing for personal units valued below KES 6 million, payable over up to 72 months.

Financing limits of up to KES 10 million for school buses.

Customers will also benefit from bundled insurance with Insurance Premium Financing (IPF) at no facility fees, alongside access to an additional 10% working capital facility to support their businesses.

In addition, the partnership offers a safe and reliable importation process, backed by rigorous quality assurance through physical inspections by Japanese engineers, certified genuine mileage, and guaranteed accident-free vehicles, as well as a 90-day warranty on engine and transmission. Customers will also enjoy faster delivery through priority shipping, seamless end-to-end handling from purchase to delivery, and dedicated local support in Nairobi and Mombasa for clearing, logistics, and vehicle handover. Altogether, the offering delivers a premium, customer-centric experience, with VVIP handling of transactions, pre-shipment service, and added value benefits such as a full tank of fuel on delivery.

This partnership reinforces Absa Bank Kenya’s position as a leading provider of asset-based financing solutions in the region. By integrating financing with trusted global supply partners, the bank continues to deliver holistic solutions that address real customer needs.

As demand for direct vehicle importation grows in Kenya, this collaboration marks a significant step toward making the process more efficient, predictable, and customer friendly.

JUBILEE LIFE INSURANCE UNVEILS ‘FAIDA ELIMU INSURANCE PLAN’ IN RENEWED EFFORT TO ADDRESS EDUCATION FINANCING GAPS

 In a move to address the escalating financial pressures on Kenyan households, Jubilee Life Insurance has officially launched Faida Elimu Insurance Plan, a transformative education protection and investment solution designed to ensure that a child’s academic journey

remains uninterrupted, regardless of life’s uncertainties.

While education is often hailed as a key pillar of Kenya’s economy, the reality for many Kenyan families is increasingly defined by education uncertainties and uneasiness.

According to Kenya’s Inequality Crisis Report by Oxfam, approximately 36% of Kenya’s population is under the age of 15, with over 14 million pupils currently enrolled in primary and secondary schools. However, significant financial barriers persist, with households spending up to 14% of their income on school fees alone.

Faida Elimu Insurance Plan strengthens the Vision 2030 Goal by the Kenyan Government to achieve basic education supported by the state’s primary mandate to ensuring successful transition through the education system by enforcing policies that prevent learning disruptions by empowering parents to proactively secure their children's transition to the next education level, thereby supporting national human capital development.

Faida Elimu Insurance Plan moves beyond traditional insurance by functioning as a high-yield, investment-linked policy that mandates a long-term savings discipline. It is engineered to provide a financial safety net against school fee shocks, the sudden disruptions caused by loss of income or family tragedy that often force children out of school.

Asman Mugambi CEO and Principal Officer at Jubilee Life Insurance Company Limited said, “As a company, we are called to think beyond products and intentionally design practical solutions that relieve both the psychological and financial burdens among Kenyan families. Every parent wants their child to go further than they ever did, without anything limiting that dream. Predictability and dignity ensure that a child’s education journey continues even when life takes unexpected turns.”

Faida Elimu Insurance Plan is designed for accessibility, allowing for monthly contributions starting from as low as KES 5,000 or a one-off deposit of KES 100,000 with a top option. It integrates an investment-linked with Life risk component that offers competitive returns alongside a mandatory Last Expense cover of KES 100,000 and Life cover of up to KES 1M. 

This structure is specifically tailored for Kenyan parents and guardians who are navigating the rising costs of private and specialized education and seek a secure way to plan, save, and protect their children’s academic future.

BEAMS GLOBAL TARGETS EAST AFRICA EXPANSION WITH CLEAN ENERGY, WATER AND EV CHARGING SOLUTIONS

 

BEAMS GLOBAL CEO DURING A MEDIA BRIEF IN NAIROBI 

Beams Global, a California-headquartered clean technology multinational, has announced plans to establish its African headquarters in Kenya as part of an aggressive push into East Africa’s renewable energy and mobility markets.

Speaking in Nairobi during his East Africa tour, Beams Global CEO Desmond Whealley said the company is eyeing Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda to roll out off-grid solar solutions aimed at improving energy access, mobility, water security, and public infrastructure.

“We see enormous potential in East Africa. Kenya will be our base to serve the region with technology that delivers immediate impact and long-term value for communities,” Whealley told reporters. “Our focus is safe, reliable energy, clean water access, and charging infrastructure for electric mobility.”

Beams Global’s expansion is anchored on four flagship solutions:

- Beam Sport, Off-grid solar-powered community hubs providing lighting, device charging, and Wi-Fi for sports and recreation centers.

- Beam Well: Solar desalination and water purification units designed to deliver clean water without grid connection or high installation costs.

- Beam Mobile: Rapid-deploy solar EV charging stations for motorcycles, tuk-tuks, and electric buses in urban and peri-urban areas.

- Beam Patrol, Solar-powered security and surveillance infrastructure for public spaces, roads, and critical facilities.

Whealley emphasized Beam Well’s role in water-scarce counties. “Our off-grid solar desalination is not expensive to install and offers immediate impact. Communities can access clean water within days, not years.”

During the Nairobi leg of his tour, Whealley held meetings with county officials from Machakos, Kiambu, and Nairobi counties to explore public-private partnerships. The discussions centered on piloting Beam Sport hubs in youth centers, deploying Beam Well units in water-stressed wards, and integrating Beam Mobile chargers into county-level e-mobility programs.

“Counties are the frontline of service delivery. Working directly with them ensures our solutions match real local needs,” Whealley said.

From Kenya, the Beams Global CEO flew to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, for talks with energy and infrastructure stakeholders before concluding his tour in Kigali, Rwanda. The company says Rwanda’s national e-mobility strategy and Tanzania’s push for rural electrification align closely with its product suite.

Beams Global has not disclosed investment figures but confirmed that Kenya will host its first African assembly and service center, creating technical jobs and local supply chain opportunities.

The company’s entry comes as East Africa accelerates clean energy adoption, with Kenya’s grid already 93% renewable and regional governments targeting wider EV uptake and universal water access by 2030.

KEPSA PARTNERS WITH IEBC TO ADVANCE CREDIBLE ELECTIONS

 

 The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) today held a high-level consultative meeting in Nairobi to establish a structured partnership aimed at enhancing peace and harmony in the run-up to the 2027 General Elections, with a focus on transparency, credibility, and peaceful co-existence.

 

The engagement marks a crucial revival of the collaboration that has been in place since the formation of the Mkenya Daima Initiative, a non-partisan, multisectoral initiative spearheaded by KEPSA Foundation, focusing on peaceful elections, smooth political transitions, and economic prosperity.

 

In his keynote address, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Edung Ethekon detailed the Commission’s roadmap, noting that over 12,000 staff have been deployed across the country. He said that the Commission aims to register 2.5 million new voters in the first phase, targeting a total of 28 million registered voters by 2027.

 

However, the Chairperson highlighted a significant Ksh 20 billion budget deficit that is,.threatens critical operations such as civic education and media campaigns. "We are prioritising legal reforms and have engaged Parliament to fast-track laws that will enhance our capacity to deliver transparent elections," stated Mr. Ethekon, while urging the private sector to bridge resource gaps.

 

“The private sector is our key pillar and our number one partner in strengthening trust; enhancing preparedness; and supporting credible, inclusive, and peaceful elections. Today’s engagement is a key part of the IEBC’s commitment to robust, sustained, and transparent engagement with all electoral stakeholders, as we move closer to the 10th August 2027 General Election,” said Ethekon.

 

KEPSA CEO Carole Kariuki reaffirmed the business community’s commitment through the Mkenya Daima Initiative. She emphasised that “political stability is a prerequisite for economic resilience, especially at a time when Kenyans are feeling the impacts of the global uncertainties, like the Middle East tensions affecting oil prices.” Noting the need to foster posterity and continuity of a good business environment that delivers Kenya's global competitiveness, Carole called for inclusion, tolerance and participation to ensure a peaceful and credible election.

 

On his part, Mucai Kunyiha, Chairperson of Mkenya Daima Initiative, identified corruption, political violence, and an evolving media landscape as primary hurdles that require resilient institutional responses. He noted that Mkenya Daima has developed a Peace Pledge that requires citizens, politicians and political parties to pledge to conduct peaceful elections and follow the system and process. “Politics is too important to be left to the politicians alone. Mkenya Daima will engage with other like-minded Kenyans and have a platform where people can speak about the leadership of the country,” said Mucai.

 

IEBC Ag. CEO Moses Sunkuli recognised KEPSA’s consistent support of the Commission in various activities in the electoral process, including voter education and civic participation. "I look forward to tapping into KEPSA’s rich influence to set the right pace for the General Election. Your insight and priority on Kenya’s socio-economic and political environments are key to the conduct of a peaceful General Election," said Sunkuli.

 

Gloria Ndekei, the Executive Director of KEPSA Foundation, underscored the spirit of the partnership: "The IEBC is committed to ensuring a credible and transparent election. The private sector stands ready to assist them in fulfilling that promise for the betterment of our country," she concluded.

 

During a robust plenary session, stakeholders raised critical issues regarding the current electoral environment, including the trust deficit, security risks brought about by goonism and the impact of election-related violence on the economy. Another main concern was the digital dynamics, including the rise of AI, misinformation, and a digitally active youth demographic.

 

The meeting reaffirmed IEBC’s commitment to restoring institutional credibility through enhanced transparency and open communication. To ensure a seamless transition to 2027, KEPSA and IEBC agreed on a structured implementation roadmap focusing on multi-agency coordination with security agencies to protect citizens and businesses and combining efforts to scale up voter and civic education to drive informed participation through the Mkenya Daima initiative. The two institutions also agreed to leverage technology to enhance transparency in results management and champion for an inclusive voter registration process to ensure no Kenyan is disenfranchised.

 

ABSA BANK KENYA PARTNERS WITH TRANSAFRICA MOTORS TO DRIVE GROWTH IN TRANSPORT AND LOGISTICAL

Absa Bank Kenya has entered into a strategic partnership with Transafrica Motors, one of Kenya’s leading distributors of commercial vehicles, to support businesses in scaling their transport, logistics, and mobility operations.

Through this collaboration, Absa Bank will provide customers with tailored financial solutions that make vehicle acquisition easier, more affordable, and business‑focused. Customers will be able to access financing of up to 90% payable over 72 months to facilitate the acquisition of select truck models, enabling them to strengthen their transport and logistics capabilities.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Absa Bank Kenya CEO, Abdi Mohamed, highlighted the importance of the partnership in the current business environment:

“Businesses today are navigating rising operating costs, global market volatility, and ongoing supply chain pressures. In this context, transport and logistics have become even more critical to business performance. Access to reliable and productive assets is no longer just about expansion, it directly impacts efficiency, speed to market, and profitability. That is why structured and flexible asset‑based financing is so important in helping businesses remain competitive, resilient, and positioned for growth.”

The partnership will benefit businesses seeking to upgrade or expand their commercial vehicle fleets by offering flexible financing that preserves working capital and avoids heavy upfront payments. Customers will also enjoy a seamless experience from vehicle selection to financing and deployment, supported by coordinated engagement between Absa Bank and Transafrica Motors.

On his part, Transafrica Motors CEO, Ali Zubedi, noted: “This partnership with Absa Bank makes it easier for businesses to access reliable vehicles and flexible affordable financing. Together, we are helping companies scale operations, preserve capital, and drive growth in Kenya’s transport and logistics sector.”

The Absa Bank Kenya Business Banking Director, Renato D’souza, emphasized that the partnership goes beyond financing: “This is about building an ecosystem that supports our customers end‑to‑end. From asset acquisition to operational efficiency, we are providing integrated solutions that empower them to move goods, create jobs, and contribute to economic growth. Our goal is to ensure clients can access vehicle financing through a simple, prompt, and tailored process.”

In addition, Absa Bank also signed an agreement with Global Motors Centre to facilitate the acquisition of Jetour personal vehicles, offering up to 100% financing payable over 72 months.

Together, these partnerships form part of Absa’s revamped Asset Finance proposition, representing a significant step in the Bank’s commitment to supporting Kenya’s economic growth by providing practical, accessible, and customer‑focused solutions.

GOVERNMENT BLASTS OPPOSITION FOR POLITISATION OF FUEL PRICES

The rulling coalition united democratic alliance (UDA) has this morning issued a statement regarding the global oil prices and the politisation of the the increase of the pump price which saw the opposition call for mass action at the lapse of seven days should the government not lower the price of the fuel.

Speaking to a journalists at a press conference in Nairobi,the Secretary general of UDA Hassan Omar has blasted the opposition for what he termed as politisation of fuel prices.The government lowered the prices last evening following public outcry of the high prices which saw public transport rise the fares.The SG has loaded the G to G from cushioning kenyans from high prices.Has eliminated the brokers in the oil market and protect the economy against flactuating dollar price.

According to Hassan Omar the opposition is castigatingation  of the G to T arrangement is misleading to kenyans,however the importation of the substandard oil was a criminal act and must be handled as such since it violated the G to G arrangement.inflated price of the oil and failure by exporting companies to notify the government of any challenges.

EABC PAYS TRIBUTE TO RWANDA ON THE 32nd COMMEMORATION OF THE 1994 GENOCIDE AGAINST THE TUTSI

 The East African Business Council (EABC) pays tribute to the people and Government of the Republic of Rwanda on the 32nd commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

We stand in solemn solidarity with the people and leadership of Rwanda, honoring their strength, resilience, and unity. We commend the remarkable progress achieved in rebuilding and transforming the nation.

Rwanda’s journey is a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of its people, and a reminder to the East African region of the vital importance of peace, reconciliation, and inclusive development.

As the East African business community, we reaffirm our shared responsibility to advance unity, stability, and economic cooperation, recognizing that sustainable development can only flourish in an environment of peace.

Together, we stand with Rwanda in remembrance, unity, and renewal, as we continue to build a stronger, more integrated, and prosperous East Africa.

PEOPLE -FIRST LEADERSHIP IS KEY TO LONG-TERM BUSINESS RESILIENCE AND GROWTH

OPINION 

By Karimi Kiogora 

McKinsey & Company’s research on organisational health has consistently shown that companies with strong people-centric practices dramatically outperform their peers. Organisations in the top quartile of organisational health have been found to be nearly three times more likely to deliver long-term financial outperformance than those at the bottom. Given such findings, culture and employee experience are increasingly shifting from being viewed as just ‘HR issues’ to being recognised as core business drivers.

This shift has become even more critical because the world of work has changed tremendously. Employees today aremore informed, more values-driven and more mobile than ever before. Multiple studies estimate that voluntary attrition and disengagement cost organisations billions of dollars globally each year through lost productivity, recruitment costs and leadership gaps. From a Human Resources perspective, these losses are not abstract – they manifest in execution failures, reduced morale and exhausted management teams.

Responding to these pressures requires a fundamental rethinking of leadership assumptions. A people-first culture is often misunderstood as being soft or permissive, but in reality, it is one of the most demanding leadership choices a company can make. It requires clarity of purpose and deep investment in capability building. Organisations that systematically invest in employee development are significantly more resilient in the face of disruption because their people are equipped to adapt and not just comply.

In practice, this resilience comes from cultures that deliberately balance care with high performance standards. From my experience, the strongest people-first organisations raise expectations while providing the support needed to meet them.Clear goals, transparent decision-making and fair performance management systems create trust, which in turn, accelerates execution. Teams move faster when they are not second-guessing leadership intent.

There is also a compelling inclusion and diversity case that companies can no longer afford to ignore. Research by the Melbourne Business School shows that companies in the top quartile for gender and ethnic diversity are significantly more likely to outperform financially. Diverse and inclusive teams make better decisions and more effectively reflect their customers and partners. In African markets - where demographics skew young, and expectations for meaningful work are rising - people-first leadership has broader implications. Organisations are inherently skills builders and leadership incubators, and thus, when they invest in their people, they strengthen the ecosystems around them, ultimately benefiting entire value chains.

When this commitment is sustained and systematic, it often results in external recognition. I say this with conviction, as my organisation recently attained the overall 1st Runner-Up (Silver) Employer of the Year Award, conferred by the Federation of Kenya Employer Award, as well as the world-class Top Employer certification. Such recognition reflects deliberate, long-term choices to place people at the centre of performance - although it is a by-product of the strategyand not the goal.

The goal, from my perspective, is longevity because technology will change, business models will evolve, and competitive advantages will erode. But what endures is an organisation’s ability to learn, grow and lead responsibly. If we treat people as costs to be managed, that mindset will cascade. But if we treat them as the source of value creation and innovation, organisations will respond accordingly. 

The writer is the People and Culture Director, Coca-Cola Beverages Africa in Kenya

HEINEKEN UNVEILS UEFA CHAMPIONS LEAGUE ‘fandom’ EXPERIENCE IN KENYA

New marketing campaign features in bar match viewing experiences in Nairobi

and other cities, and seeks to connect football fans with new friends Nairobi, Tuesday, April 7, 2026……Beer brand Heineken through Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL) has launched a marketing campaign dubbed Fans Have

More Friends in Kenya with a series of UEFA Champions League (UCL) fan events

lined up in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu and Nakuru.

The campaign seeks to encourage football fans to make new friends and connect

with each other while cheering their favorite teams thus transforming match viewing

experiences from a passive affair into vibrant social events around shared

conversations about football and life.

The UCL fan events hosted by Heineken kick off in Nairobi this week as Bayern Munich take on Real Madrid on Tuesday in the UEFA Champions League quarter finals in Madrid. Other events will be held in Mombasa, Nakuru and Kisumu at later

dates, with the last event on May 31, 2026 when the UEFA Champions Leagues final

will be played in Budapest, Hungary.

 KWAL Commercial Director, Alice Mwalimo, said Fans Have More Friends is inspired

by research done by Heineken  showing that fandom can be a social catalyst to

build communities around shared passions and interests. “This campaign is about

turning the energy that fans exhibit when watching their favorite game into a moment

of real connection, moving from just being fans into being friends,” said Mwalimo. This was echoed by Heineken Senior Brand Manager at KWAL, Prudence Mutembei, who said, “This campaign celebrates the random, unscripted ways fans

connect during football- and the role Heineken plays in bringing them together. Heineken creates the space where fandom becomes a shared experience. We are

telling fans that you have more friends than you realize.”

Last year, Heineken hosted similar events as part of the highly successful UCL

marketing campaign the highlight of which was the Kenyan leg of the UEFA

Champions League Trophy Tour, featuring German football legend Bastian

Schweinsteiger.

Globally, Heineken  launched the Fans Have More Friends campaign in New York in

January this year. The campaign is about encouraging fans to make new friends and

connect with each other when watching a game of football. The campaign will run

throughout 2026 extending to fans of football, F1 Grand Prix and Coechella, a music

and arts festival to be held in California, US on April 10-19, 2026.

Research by Heineken  shows that 75% of fans say their fandom has helped them

meet new people while 59% say it has led to some of their closest friendships. 72%

of football fans say language is not barrier to making “football mates” in a bar, signaling the powerful impact of footbal in bringing people together. Many brands are now turning to fandom to tap into social communities and create

immersive experiences built around shared passions and interests. Football has one

of most developed fan communities. Global tournaments like UEFA Champions

League boast strong following.

Heineken  is a global beer brand marketed in Kenya by KWAL as an alcoholic lager and, Heineken 0.0, a non-alcoholic version.

MAKING INVESTING ACCESSIBLE FOR EVERYONE

by David Macharia

Investing plays a central role in wealth creation, financial security, and long-term economic growth. Yet for many individuals, investing still feels distant or complex. Perceptions around the need for high capital and technical language have historically limited participation in investment products.

Investing remains unevenly distributed across global markets. According to the Global Findex Database by the World Bank, while 76% of adults globally have access to a financial account, only about 26% report saving through a formal financial institution for long-term goals. Participation in capital market instruments such as mutual funds, bonds, or equities remains significantly lower, particularly in emerging economies.

Reducing barriers to entry

One of the primary obstacles to investing has been the perception that it requires substantial capital. Historically, certain asset classes were indeed limited to high-net-worth individuals. However, the evolution of collective investment schemes such as unit trusts and money market funds has transformed this landscape. By allowing investors to pool resources and start with manageable amounts, modern asset management solutions have enabled broader participation without compromising investment discipline and professionalism.

Simplifying investment products

Accessibility is not only about inclusivity; it is also about clarity. Financial terminology can create unnecessary complexity, discouraging potential investors from engaging with formal products. Clear product descriptions, transparent fee structures, and straightforward reporting frameworks help demystify investing. When investors understand how their funds are allocated, the associated risks, and expected time horizons, they are better positioned to make informed decisions aligned with their financial goals.

Strengthening financial literacy and investor confidence

Accessibility must be accompanied by education. According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), financial literacy levels remain modest across many markets, limiting individuals’ ability to fully utilise financial products. Investor education initiatives, including market insights, advisory support, and thought leadership content play a vital role in building long-term confidence. An informed investor is more likely to remain disciplined, avoid reactive decision-making, and pursue sustainable wealth accumulation.

Leveraging technology to enhance inclusion

Digital transformation has significantly improved access to investment services. Online onboarding, mobile platforms, and digital reporting tools have reduced traditional barriers such as paperwork and geographical limitations. As digital adoption increases, investors can now monitor portfolios, make contributions, and receive updates with greater convenience. Technology serves as a bridge, connecting individuals to investment opportunities in a seamless and secure manner.

Regulatory oversight and investor protection

In Kenya, the asset management industry operates under the regulatory framework of the Capital Markets Authority (CMA), which provides oversight to ensure transparency, accountability, and investor protection. Strong regulatory governance is fundamental to maintaining trust and promoting responsible market participation. Robust compliance standards reinforce the credibility of collective investment schemes and protect investors’ interests, contributing to a more stable and inclusive financial ecosystem.

Expanding access to investment opportunities is essential to deepening financial inclusion and supporting long-term economic resilience. By lowering entry barriers, simplifying communication, leveraging technology, and strengthening investor education, the investment landscape can become more inclusive and opportunity-driven.

At Orient Asset Managers, accessibility is not about lowering standards. It is about removing barriers that prevent individuals from participating in structured investment opportunities. By combining disciplined portfolio management with transparent processes and client-focused solutions, Orient Asset Managers is committed to enabling more Kenyans to move beyond traditional saving and toward long-term wealth creation. 

The writer is the Investment Manager at Orient Asset Managers.

KENYA MUST STRENGTHEN FINANCING ECOSYSTEMS TO UNLOCK SUSTAINABLE GROWTH

At the just concluded Kenya International Investment Conference (KIICO) 2026, financial experts and industry leaders have reached a firm consensus that Kenya’s ability to accelerate economic development and attract tangible investment hinges on how effectively the country can coordinate, structure, and deploy capital.

Speaking during the “Financing Ecosystem” side event, the MD and CEO of Absa Bank Kenya Abdi Mohamed emphasized that the nation must shift away from fragmented financing approaches toward more integrated, ecosystem-driven models to successfully bridge the infrastructure gap.

The Absa CEO noted that Kenya stands at a pivotal moment where the ambition to accelerate industrialization, deepen inclusion, and build resilience in an increasingly complex global environment is clear.

Addressing the forum, he stated, “Kenya stands at an important moment. The ambition to accelerate industrialisation, deepen inclusion, and build resilience in an increasingly complex global environment is clear. The question before us is not whether capital exists to support this ambition, but how effectively we can mobilise and deploy it.”

He maintained that the primary challenge is no longer the availability of funds, but the mechanisms through which the public and private sectors mobilize that capital.

Reinforcing this need for a strategic pivot, the Permanent Secretary for the National Treasury Chris Kiptoo highlighted the fiscal urgency of these reforms, noting that the country currently spends 40% of its ordinary revenue on debt service.

The Permanent Secretary emphasized that such a high debt-service-to-revenue ratio is a trend the government is determined to reverse, stating, “To averse these trends, as Treasury we are pursuing reforms to bring this down. Continued borrowing is not a sustainable strategy for prosperity. We are implementing structural reforms across both revenue and expenditure to mobilize capital more effectively. This shift is supported by the President’s recent signing of the National Infrastructure Bill, which introduces a new framework designed to reduce reliance on public debt in favor of a sustainable, investment-led approach.”

This shift requires a departure from traditional commercial banking in order to meet the nation’s vast development needs. While capital exists across government, development finance institutions, and the private sector, large-scale project funding remains constrained by inconsistent structuring and operational silos. To unlock value across entire value chains, the discussions highlighted a need to look more deliberately at domestic capital sources such as pension funds, institutional investors, and other long-term pools that represent sustainable opportunities for the country. By focusing on execution across the entire ecosystem, Kenya can move beyond intent to achieve delivery at scale.

The path forward requires significant clarity in policy frameworks, the strengthening of project preparation, and the creation of clear risk-sharing mechanisms to attract a broader range of investors. When public-private partnerships are well-structured, they align public priorities with private capital to ensure that projects are positioned for successful execution. If the country succeeds in these efforts, the impact will extend far beyond infrastructure to shape the overall competitiveness of the economy, deepen capital markets, and accelerate truly inclusive growth.

The conference concluded with a call for unprecedented coordination between government, financial institutions, and development partners to unlock the long-term capital flows essential for Kenya's future.

The Kenya International Investment Conference (KIICO) 2026 brought together 500 global investors, policymakers, and industry leaders, collectively representing trillions of US dollars in capital, to explore Kenya’s investment landscape and forge partnerships capable of creating millions of jobs while reinforcing Kenya’s position as Africa’s leading destination for doing business.

KENYAN FIRMS IMPROVE KNOWLEDGE OF SERVICE EXPORT PLANNING FOLLOWING EABC–EU–GIZ LIFTED PROJECT CAPACITY-BUILDING

Over 30 Kenyan firms have improved their knowledge on service export planning following a capacity-building workshop organized by the East African Business Council (EABC), in collaboration with the East African Community (EAC), under the European Union (EU)–GIZ Leveraging Integration Frameworks for Trade in Services (LIFTED) Project.

 

The remarks of EABC Executive Director Mr. Ahmed Farah, highlighted that services are the fastest-growing sector contributing approximately 55%–70% of Kenya’s GDP in recent years. Travel services dominate exports at about 40%–50%, followed by transport services at 25%–30%. ICT and digital services contribute around 10%–11%, while financial services and other business and professional services each account for an estimated 5%–10%. The remarks were delivered by Mr. Adrian R. Njau, EABC Trade & Policy Advisor.

 

Mr. Vital Habinshuti representing the EAC Secretariat, stated that the workshop comes at a critical time when services trade is increasingly driving growth, innovation, and job creation across the region. He emphasized the importance of strengthening private sector capacity to take advantage of opportunities under regional and continental frameworks such as the EAC Common Market Protocol and the AfCFTA. He also noted that while progress has been made in liberalizing services, the full benefits will only be realized through an informed and empowered private sector capable of navigating market access requirements and regulatory environments.

 

The training focused on bridging the gap between policy frameworks and business practice by equipping participants with practical skills in export readiness, market entry strategies, and regulatory compliance. Participants explored approaches such as establishing commercial presence, forming strategic partnerships, and bidding for regional opportunities.

Overall, the workshop strengthened awareness, enhanced export readiness, and fostered regional networks among service providers, with strong participation from SMEs, including women- and youth-led enterprises. It also highlighted persistent challenges such as regulatory barriers and limited market intelligence, reinforcing the need for continued capacity building, policy advocacy, and post-training support to fully unlock the potential of services trade in the EAC.

 

DEMAND FOR BETTER HOUSING BY KENYA'S MIDDLE CLASS SPURS UPTAKE OF BUILT-IN KITCHENS

 The demand for better-built apartments with modern amenities is rising in Kenya as tenants place greater emphasis on quality, functionality and long-term living standards rather than rent alone, according to housing market data and industry players.

The shift comes as the country’s real estate sector continues to expand, growing by 33.7% between 2019 and 2023, according to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), driven by rapid urbanisation and sustained housing demand.

Market observations indicate tenants are increasingly prioritising factors such as construction quality, security, reliable utilities and fitted interiors, prompting developers to incorporate built-in features at the design stage to improve property competitiveness.

More than 77% of rental housing in Kenya consists of flats and apartments, reinforcing demand for space-efficient designs and integrated layouts suited to urban living. Built-in kitchen appliances, including hobs, ovens, extractor hoods and microwaves, are increasingly being installed during construction rather than after occupation.

Developers say this approach helps standardise unit quality, reduce modification costs and improve tenant appeal in a market where renters are becoming more selective.

“There is a growing preference for housing that is delivered as a complete product rather than unfinished space,” said Eric Otieno, Regional Product Manager for Cooking at LG Electronics East Africa.

“Built-in kitchens are becoming important because they allow developers to optimise space and deliver consistency across units while responding to changing tenant expectations.”

Industry players say cost efficiency remains central to adoption, particularly within Kenya’s price-sensitive housing market. LG’s entry-level built-in kitchen packages are increasingly positioned as cost-efficient additions when installed during construction, typically ranging between about KES 90,000 and KES 120,000 depending on configuration. Such pricing, developers say, is becoming viable even within mid-market and affordable housing segments when factored into overall project costs.

The approach reflects a growing strategy among developers to use standardised fittings to balance quality improvements with cost control, particularly as competition increases within the expanding apartment sector in Kenya’s urban areas.

Kenya faces an estimated annual housing demand of about 200,000 units, which continues to drive construction of multi-family developments, student housing and mixed-use residential projects where standardisation of fittings is becoming more common.

Industry data also shows that tenants are increasingly evaluating properties based on overall living costs, including maintenance reliability and infrastructure availability, rather than monthly rent alone.

Alongside fitted kitchens, developers are also investing in shared amenities such as commercial laundry facilities as part of efforts to differentiate properties and improve tenant retention.

LG said it has supported the installation of more than 200 laundromat facilities across Kenya, with expansion expected in cities including Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Eldoret as developers incorporate shared services into residential projects.

While still concentrated in Nairobi, such facilities are increasingly being viewed as complementary infrastructure in high-density developments, where convenience services can improve occupancy performance.

DOCTORS IMPLANT PACEMAKER WITHOUT SURGICAL BLADE IN REGIONAL FIRST

Specialists at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) have successfully implanted a leadless pacemaker for the first time in sub-Saharan Africa, a milestone expected to expand treatment options for patients with heart rhythm disorders across the region.

The procedure was performed by a multidisciplinary cardiac team led by Dr Mohamed Jeilan, Head of Cardiology at AKUH, positioning the hospital among a select group of centres globally offering this next-generation technology.

Unlike conventional pacemakers, which require a surgical incision in the upper chest and electrical wires (leads) inserted through veins into the heart, leadless pacemakers are miniature capsule-sized devices delivered directly into the heart through a catheter inserted via a vein in the leg. The pacemaker lives entirely within the heart, eliminating the need for a surgical pocket or transvenous leads.

The first patient treated at AKUH required this advanced approach because traditional pacemaker implantation was not feasible. The patient had severe obstruction of the central veins normally used to insert pacemaker leads, related to long-term dialysis access and prior radiotherapy treatment, a combination that made conventional device placement difficult and high risk.

“Leadless pacing provided an ideal solution for this patient,” said Dr Jeilan. “In cases where veins are blocked or access is compromised, this technology allows us to deliver effective therapy without the need for surgical pockets or transvenous leads.”

The device used was the latest-generation Micra AV2 leadless pacemaker, which can coordinate electrical activity between heart chambers in selected patients, expanding the number of individuals who can benefit from leadless technology compared with earlier systems.

Leadless pacemakers are roughly the size of a large tablet and are implanted inside the heart during a minimally invasive procedure that typically lasts under an hour.

Pacemakers are among the most impactful treatment options available in medical science, and the technology has evolved dramatically over recent years.

Dr Mzee Ngunga, President of the Kenya Cardiac Society, who was also part of the procedural team, described the development as a major step forward for cardiac care in the country.

“Increasingly, patients in our region are able to access cutting-edge technologies in heart care, something which contrasts with previous decades where most patients were unable to access advanced cardiac treatments,” he said. “Introducing leadless pacing demonstrates that we continue to provide world-class, cutting-edge care locally.”

Experts recommend leadless pacemakers in specific situations where they may offer advantages over conventional devices. These include patients with blocked veins, those on long-term dialysis, individuals with a high risk of infection, and patients who have previously experienced device infections.

Because the device sits entirely within the heart and does not use leads, it reduces infection risk and long-term mechanical complications, two important concerns in regions where managing device complications can be challenging.

Medtronic, the manufacturer of the Micra system, said the introduction reflects confidence in the hospital’s expertise and regional leadership.

“We are committed to expanding access to innovative cardiac technologies globally. Aga Khan University Hospital has demonstrated strong clinical capability, infrastructure, and commitment to advancing cardiovascular care, making it an important centre for the introduction of leadless pacing in the region.” a Medtronic Spokesperson said.

Experts also note that the use of leadless pacemakers is expanding as technology advances, with future systems expected to treat more complex rhythm disorders and potentially heart failure conditions without traditional wires.

The achievement builds on a long tradition of pioneering cardiovascular innovation at Aga Khan University Hospital, which has introduced several minimally invasive cardiac technologies to Kenya over the past two decades, including coronary physiology (FFR) in 2006, rotational atherectomy in 2013, renal denervation for hypertension in 2013, and transcatheter aortic valve replacement in 2015. In 2017, the hospital also launched the country’s first cardiology specialisation training programme.

Healthcare leaders say the milestone reinforces Kenya’s growing reputation as a regional hub for specialised medical care.

“Our goal is not only to treat patients, but to build capacity. We want to train African cardiologists, expand access to modern therapies, and reduce the need for patients to travel abroad for treatment. This achievement demonstrates that, with the right expertise and institutional commitment, highly specialised therapies can be delivered locally,” said Dr Jeilan.

Cardiovascular disease is rising rapidly across the continent, and specialists believe innovations such as leadless pacing will play a significant role in strengthening cardiac care systems in the years ahead.

ABSA COMMITS KES 35 MILLION TO 2026 KIP KEINO CLASSIC AS EVENT GOES UNDER FLOODLIGHTS FOR THE FIRST TIME

NAIROBI, KENYA APRIL 2, 2026 – Absa Bank Kenya has today renewed its title sponsorship for the Absa Kip Keino Classic Tour with a KES 35 million investment for the race to be held at the Nyayo National Stadium on Friday, April 24, 2026.

For the first time in the championship’s history, the 2026 edition will be staged under floodlights, running from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. This evening schedule will deliver a high-energy atmosphere for spectators and create a world-class night-track environment for the athletes.

As part of its broader commitment to athletics in 2026, Absa has committed KES 60 million to support the national athletics calendar. This includes a KES 35 million investment in the Absa Kip Keino Classic, of which Kes. 27 million will cover rights fees, and the rest to support event execution, and fan and stakeholder experiences, as well as continued support for media amplification and engagement.

The 2026 sponsorship marks Absa’s sixth year as the title partner, bringing its total investment to KES 196 million over this period. This sustained commitment has ensured that the stories of Kenya’s elite and emerging stars reach a global audience, while successfully positioning brand Kenya as both a sporting and tourism destination on the world stage.

The World Athletics Continental Gold Tour Race, known as the Absa Kip Keino Classic, will bring together top-tier local and international athletes for an exceptional track and field competition. This event will showcase some of the fastest sprinters, most skilled field athletes, and emerging global talents, all vying for substantial prize money and valuable world ranking points on Kenyan soil.

Speaking on Absa’s support to sports, Absa Bank Kenya Marketing and Corporate Affairs Director Mwihaki Wachira, reaffirmed the Bank’s long-term commitment to supporting athletics and strengthening Kenya’s sports ecosystem.

“At Absa, our purpose is to empower Africa’s tomorrow, together one story at a time, and we see sport as a powerful platform to do that by supporting talent and strengthening the ecosystems around it. Through long-term partnerships, we are contributing to the growth of athletics in Kenya, while helping to position the country as a global sporting and tourism destination.

Over the past decade, we have invested close to KES 2 billion in Kenya’s sports ecosystem, and we are proud to continue that journey with the Kip Keino Classic, working alongside government and Athletics Kenya to deliver another world-class event.”

On his part, the Athletics Kenya Meet Director Barnabas Korir expressed optimism that this year’s floodlight event will attract huge numbers both locally and more tuning in globally.

“We are all set for this year’s Absa Kip Keino Classic Tour event which will for the first time be under the flood lights commencing with a curtain raising national event at 1.40pm on 24th April 2026 at Nyayo Stadium and conclude with the 100m men’s race followed by the closing ceremony from 8pm. In a historic first, the schedule will also feature the introduction of the Under 20 (U20) at the Absa Kip Keino showcase, adding a fresh layer of youthful energy to the meet.”

“This year’s event is free. We therefore expect Kenyans to show up in huge numbers and support our local athletes,” he added.

Among the athletes expected to compete at the Absa Kip Keino Classic are the fastest man in Africa Ferdinand Omanyala, Olympic champion Thomas Rohler, World Champion and Diamond League Final winner Timothy Cheruiyot , American Olympic athlete Dalilah Muhammad, African record holder in Javelin Julius Yego, Canadian hammer thrower, 2024 Olympic champion and two time World Champion Ethan Katzberg, Kenyan middle-distance runner, Olympic and World champion Emmanuel Wanyonyi and Ugandan middle distance runner and 2019 World champion Halima Nakaayi, among others.

Athletics Kenya Competition Director Kennedy Tanui expects fast times in the 100m and 200m, probably even world record paces, with the newly installed Mondo track at the Nyayo Stadium.

As part of its ongoing partnership with Athletics Kenya and this year, Absa has committed KES 60 million to the athletics calendar. This includes support for the Sirikwa World Athletics Gold Cross Country held in February this year, an event that showcased the highest standard of cross-country competition in Kenya and reinforced the country’s capacity to host international cross-country events.

MTETEZI CALLS FOR MASS ACTION ON TUESDAY

Mtetezi a grassroots economic justice forum has today issued a notice for mass action on Tuesday next week to hold a citizen arrest of energy Cabinet secretary Opiyo Wandayi following expiry of resignation notice issued on Tuesday.

Speaking to journalists in Nairobi the National convenor of mtetezi Francis Awino has condemned his attack by goons after a press conference in milimani court which occured at nation centre.

Francis has challenged the Energy CS to appear and face kenyans and explain what he knows in the substandard fuel exportation which lead to resignation of energy PS,Epra boss and kpc boss.