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Banks urged to prioritise trade infrastructure as global disruptions intensify

Jane Muia
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Banks urged to prioritise trade infrastructure as global disruptions intensify

Financial institutions in East Africa are being challenged to go beyond traditional transactions and position themselves as critical enablers of regional trade, as geopolitical tensions, rising operating costs, and supply chain disruptions continue to reshape global trade.

That was the central theme at the Absa Trade and Connectivity Thought Leadership Forum held in Nairobi, which brought together bank executives, trade finance experts, fintechs, and development finance institutions to discuss how the region can build resilience and better support businesses in a volatile global environment.

Absa Group Regional Trade and Working Capital Product Specialist, Jeremiah Mutune noted that payment infrastructure, cross-border settlement efficiency, and integrated trade finance systems are the foundation on which competitive trade ecosystems are built.

“Against the backdrop of geopolitical tensions, the strongest infrastructure we have as banks is to make sure that we remain connected. Transactional banking is a key infrastructure in the sense that it facilitates payments, enables efficient cross-border settlements, and ensures integrated trade finance systems, and that paints a good picture in terms of transparency when we are conducting trade between ourselves, other banks, and our clients,” said Mutune.

He emphasised that banks capable of offering seamless, end-to-end supply chain and payment solutions are better positioned to give clients a competitive edge.

“Any bank that has seamless integrated supply chain and payment solutions will have a competitive advantage, because trade goes hand in hand with liquidity and payments,” he added.

Absa Bank Kenya Transactional Banking Director, Lydia Karanja explained that the current environment calls for a fundamental restructuring of how financial institutions support trade.

Karanja cited the ongoing Middle East conflict as a key driver of disruption, affecting shipping routes, fuel costs, and supply chain predictability across the region.

“The global and regional economic recovery remains uneven and continues to be shaped by persistent geopolitical tensions affecting trade, global supply chains, and energy markets. Our role is not simply to facilitate transactions, but to enable businesses to scale confidently across borders and access opportunities wherever they exist,” said Karanja.

Despite the challenges, Karanja pointed out that East Africa, and Kenya in particular, is increasingly recognised as a strategic commercial hub, with global multinationals establishing regional headquarters here as they expand across the continent.

For banks, this means building better relationships, processing payments faster, and making it easier for businesses to operate across different countries.

“As financial institutions, this evolution calls on us to think differently about how we support trade and position ourselves as ecosystem enablers. It requires stronger partnerships, faster and more efficient transaction flows, deeper correspondent banking relationships, and greater investment in innovation and connectivity,” added Karanja.

Experts noted that there remains a persistent financing gap affecting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), particularly in accessing trade finance tools such as purchase order financing.

Additionally, the experts called on banks to simplify and digitise trade finance solutions to make them more accessible to smaller businesses, which continue to play a critical role in regional commerce and job creation.

Also Read: Kenya Airways makes history as first African airline to join ALL Accor loyalty network

Kenya Airways makes history as first African airline to join ALL Accor loyalty network

Peninnnah M
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Kenya Airways makes history as first African airline to join ALL Accor loyalty network

Kenya Airways, the national carrier of Kenya, together with ALL Accor, the award-winning booking platform and loyalty programme, has announced a strategic partnership that marks a significant milestone for African travel making Kenya Airways the first African airline to partner with the globally renowned programme.

Members can exchange their rewards effortlessly through seamless two-way conversions, 3,000 Asante Rewards points can be converted into 1,000 ALL Accor Reward points, and 3000 All Accor program points can be converted into 1000 Asante reward points redeemable across Accor’s 5,800 hotels and over 45 brands worldwide, from complimentary nights and in-hotel privileges to exclusive lifestyle experiences. Likewise, ALL Accor members will enjoy access to Kenya Airways rewards, including flights and travel-related benefits.

Speaking on the partnership, Julius Thairu, Kenya Airways Chief Commercial and Customer officer said: “This collaboration represents a significant milestone not only for Kenya Airways, but for African aviation. As the first airline on the continent to partner with ALL Accor, we are proud to give our loyal customers even more ways to earn, convert, and redeem their rewards across a world of travel and hospitality experiences.

As we continue to enhance our offering, Kenya Airways has increased daily frequencies to Paris, reintroduced the previously grounded Dreamliner into service, and will deploy a higher-capacity Boeing 777 on the London Gatwick route to meet peak season demand.”

“Our partnership with Kenya Airways marks a pivotal moment, responding to the demand for connected, experience-driven travel across Africa and the Middle East where loyalty is key. By bringing hospitality and aviation together, we’re significantly enhancing the ALL Accor ecosystem by providing members with seamless access across our 45+ brands, from luxury to economy, including stays, dining, and exclusive events.

This collaboration empowers our members with greater flexibility, stronger recognition, and more avenues to transform points into truly meaningful travel experiences.” said Kerry Healy, Chief Commercial Officer for Accor’s Premium, Midscale & Economy brands in the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific.

Raki Phillips, Regional President, Premium, Midscale and Economy, Middle East, Africa & Türkiye, at Accor added “This partnership reflects the growing momentum of Africa and the Middle East as increasingly connected travel markets. For our guests, this makes travel feel easier and more connected. Kenya is a key market for us, and through this partnership their journey flows.

Through this partnership, members of the Asante Rewards and ALL Accor can seamlessly earn and redeem points across both platforms, unlocking greater flexibility, enhanced value, and a more rewarding experience both in the air and on the ground.

Members can exchange their rewards effortlessly through seamless two-way conversions, 3,000 Asante Rewards points can be converted into 1,000 ALL Accor Reward points, and 3000 All Accor program points can be converted into 1000 Asante reward points redeemable across Accor’s 5,800 hotels and over 45 brands worldwide, from complimentary nights and in-hotel privileges. to exclusive lifestyle experiences. Likewise, ALL Accor members will enjoy access to Kenya Airways rewards, including flights and travel-related benefits.

Kenya Airways & Rubis to launch Africa’s first dedicated SAF refinery

Speaking on the partnership, Julius Thairu, Kenya Airways Chief Commercial and Customer officer said: “This collaboration represents a significant milestone not only for Kenya Airways, but for African aviation. As the first airline on the continent to partner with ALL Accor, we are proud to give our loyal customers even more ways to earn, convert, and redeem their rewards across a world of travel and hospitality experiences.

As we continue to enhance our offering, Kenya Airways has increased daily frequencies to Paris, reintroduced the previously grounded Dreamliner into service, and will deploy a higher-capacity Boeing 777 on the London Gatwick route to meet peak season demand.”

“Our partnership with Kenya Airways marks a pivotal moment, responding to the demand for connected, experience-driven travel across Africa and the Middle East where loyalty is key. By bringing hospitality and aviation together, we’re significantly enhancing the ALL Accor ecosystem by providing members with seamless access across our 45+ brands, from luxury to economy, including stays, dining, and exclusive events.

This collaboration empowers our members with greater flexibility, stronger recognition, and more avenues to transform points into truly meaningful travel experiences.” said Kerry Healy, Chief Commercial Officer for Accor’s Premium, Midscale & Economy brands in the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific.

Raki Phillips, Regional President, Premium, Midscale and Economy, Middle East, Africa & Türkiye, at Accor added “This partnership reflects the growing momentum of Africa and the Middle East as increasingly connected travel markets. For our guests, this makes travel feel easier and more connected. Kenya is a key market for us, and through this partnership their journey flows.

Kenya Airways The Priste Apim

seamlessly from flight to stay, earning and redeeming along the way. It’s about simple, intuitive experiences that feel genuinely rewarding, wherever they go.”

This strategic partnership combines the strength of Kenya Airways’ growing global network with Accor’s global footprint of more than 5,800 properties across over 110 countries, spanning economy to premium and luxury brands including ibis, Novotel, Pullman, Swissôtel, Sofitel, Fairmont and Raffles.

Members can now enjoy a seamless travel and lifestyle experience by redeeming their points for flights across Kenya Airways and its SkyTeam partners’ regional and international destinations, as well as lounge access and additional baggage as well as across Accor’s network for stays dining, wellness, and lifestyle experiences, delivering greater travel flexibility and enhanced loyalty rewards value.

With more than 100 million members worldwide, ALL Accor continues to grow rapidly and plays. a central role in enhancing guest engagement across the Accor ecosystem. Members of both programmes can begin enjoying the new benefits through their respective loyalty platforms.

 

TSC proposes new entry grades for teacher training, announces mass promotion

Jane Muia
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0
TSC proposes new entry grades for teacher training, announces mass promotion

The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has unveiled proposals that could reshape teacher training requirements in Kenya, in a move aimed at expanding access to the profession and responding to the increasing demand for trained educators nationwide.

Under the proposed amendments to the TSC Code of Regulations for Teachers (CORT), the Commission plans to reduce the minimum entry grade for diploma teacher training programmes from the current KCSE mean grade of C+ (plus) to C (plain).

If approved, the reforms would mark a significant shift in teacher education policy, opening the door for more learners to join the teaching profession at a time when Kenya’s education sector continues to face staffing needs in various regions.

According to the draft regulations, anyone seeking registration as a teacher must still meet strict professional and ethical standards. These include demonstrating good moral character, holding relevant academic and professional qualifications from a recognised teacher training institution in Kenya, and fulfilling all registration conditions set by the Commission.

TSC says the proposed changes are part of wider efforts to make the profession more accessible, inclusive and aligned with the evolving needs of the country’s education system.

The revised entry requirements, if adopted, will affect a range of diploma teacher training programmes. These include the Diploma in Early Childhood Teacher Education (DECTE), Diploma in Early Childhood Development Education under the Montessori Curriculum, Diploma in Primary Teacher Education (DTE/DPTE), Diploma in Secondary Teacher Education (DSTE), Diploma in Technical Teacher Education (DTTE), Diploma in Special Needs Education (DSNE), and Diploma in Adult and Continuing Teacher Education (DACTE).

The proposed regulations also offer special consideration to persons living with disabilities. Applicants registered as persons with disabilities may qualify for selected programmes with a minimum KCSE mean grade of C- (minus), depending on specific course and subject requirements.

TSC announces promotion of 30,000 teachers

The Commission has further announced plans to promote more than 30,000 teachers before the end of 2026 as part of efforts to strengthen career growth within the public teaching service.

TSC Acting Chief Executive Officer Eveleen Mitei told the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Education that the promotions will be carried out once the National Treasury releases Sh2 billion allocated for the exercise in the 2026/2027 financial year.

Speaking at Bunge Towers on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, Mitei noted that the number of teachers promoted will largely depend on available vacancies created through retirements, resignations and other departures from service.

She also revealed that the Commission intends to confirm 20,000 intern teachers out of the current 44,000 into Permanent and Pensionable terms.

The intern teachers are expected to complete their mandatory two-year internship period by January 2027, after which they will be absorbed into permanent positions.

Mitei explained that TSC is unable to conduct further large-scale permanent recruitment while thousands of intern teachers are still awaiting confirmation, noting the need to maintain proper staffing structures and ensure smooth career progression within the teaching service.

She further disclosed that more than 100,000 teachers have been recruited in the last three years following increased government support.

Also Read: Alliance Girls principal on the spot over illegal school fees hike to Sh120,000

German Embassy extends IPS scholarship deadline for Kenyan applicants

Jane Muia
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0
German Embassy extends IPS scholarship deadline for Kenyan applicants

The German Embassy has extended the deadline for Kenyan applicants seeking to join the International Parliamentary Scholarships (IPS) Africa Programme, giving prospective candidates more time to submit their applications.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, May 13, the embassy announced that the application deadline had been pushed from May 15, 2026, to May 29, 2026.

“The application deadline has officially been extended from 15 May 2026 to 29 May 2026. More time to apply for the IPS Africa Programme,” the embassy said.

The IPS Africa Programme is designed for young university graduates from selected African countries who are actively involved in politics, governance, or social impact initiatives. The scholarship offers participants an opportunity to gain first-hand exposure to Germany’s parliamentary system and the political decision-making processes within the German Bundestag.

The initiative is run in collaboration with leading German universities, including Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Technische Universität Berlin.

Successful applicants will take part in the programme for five months, although the embassy did not specify the exact start date.

The scholarship is fully funded, with fellows set to receive a monthly stipend of Sh106,000. In addition, accommodation will be provided at no cost, while travel expenses to and from Berlin will be fully covered.

The German Bundestag will also provide participants with comprehensive health, accident and personal liability insurance for the duration of their stay.

To qualify, applicants must be citizens of one of the participating countries, which include Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Candidates must also be below the age of 30 by the start of the scholarship period, and must hold a university degree.

Further requirements include a strong command of the German language, with applicants expected to have at least a B2 proficiency level under the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Applicants must also demonstrate a clear interest in politics and show evidence of social or political engagement.

Applications can only be submitted through the IPS digital platform, and all submissions must be made in German.

Also Read: Nairobi to host Government and Public Sector Project Management conference

CBK invites Kenyans to invest in Sh50 billion Treasury bond offer

Jane Muia
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CBK invites Kenyans to invest in Sh50 billion Treasury bond offer

The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has invited investors to participate in a reopened Treasury bond auction targeting Sh50 billion, as the government seeks to raise funds to support its budget.

In a prospectus issued on Wednesday, May 12, the CBK said it is reissuing two fixed-coupon Treasury bonds, a 15-year paper and a 20-year paper

The two instruments have remaining maturities of 8.3 years and 15.3 years, respectively, offering investors an opportunity to buy into longer-term government debt.

The 15-year bond carries a coupon rate of 12.34 percent and will mature on July 10, 2034, while the 20-year bond offers a coupon rate of 13.444 percent and is set to mature on July 22, 2041.

CBK noted that non-competitive bids will be accepted from a minimum of Sh50,000 up to a ceiling of Sh50 million.

Competitive bids, on the other hand, will require a minimum investment of Sh2 million per Central Depository System (CDS) account for each tenor.

The sale period for the 15-year bond will run from May 13 to May 20, 2026, while the 20-year bond will be available from May 18 to May 20, 2026.

Both bonds will be auctioned on May 20, 2026, with bids required to be submitted by 10am. Settlement is scheduled for May 25, 2026.

The regulator said bids must be submitted electronically through the CBK DhowCSD platform or the Treasury Mobile Direct (TMD) system.

Successful bidders will be required to obtain their payment details through the CBK DhowCSD Investor Portal or mobile application.

“All successful bidders should obtain the payment key and amount payable from the CBK DhowCSD Investor Portal/App under the transactions tab on Friday, 22/05/2026,” CBK stated in the prospectus.

The regulator also cautioned that investors who fail to meet payment obligations risk suspension from future participation in government securities auctions.

Secondary trading for the two bonds is expected to begin on May 25, 2026, through the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), in multiples of Sh50,000.

Also Read: Ruto govt goes after M-Pesa money transfers in Finance Bill 2026

Ruto govt goes after M-Pesa money transfers in Finance Bill 2026

James Oundo
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Ruto govt goes after M-Pesa money transfers in Finance Bill 2026

The government of President William Ruto is planning to slap heavy taxes on M-Pesa money transfers. This follows a taxation proposal that is contained in the Finance Bill 2026. In the proposal, President Ruto’s government through the National Treasury is planning to slap a 16 percent VAT charge on money transfers made through M-Pesa, Airtel Money, Pesapal and another 39 payment platforms used to transfer cash across the country.

 In pushing for this taxation, the government has claimed that the VAT charge of 16 percent will be paid by payment service providers such as Safaricom and Airtel, and not by the people who actually use these mobile transfer services.

“The person who supplies ICT to enable payments, including paybills or tills, is the one subject to VAT. Persons making payments would be out of the scope for VAT as they are not supplying any services,” the National Treasury’s Director General of Budget Albert Mwenda told a local newspaper.

However, this line of argument has been criticized as deceptive, with payment service providers expected to pass the burden of paying the VAT onto service users through increased money transfer fees.

“This is the same reasoning that we have seen being deployed by proponents of trade tariffs globally; the claim that it is not the people who pay tariffs but countries and big businesses, which is a huge misconception,” said financial analyst Jefferson Ndunge.

“In this case, just as has happened with tariffs in other jurisdictions, ordinary Kenyans who use mobile money will end up paying higher fees to cover for the new VAT charge.”

READ MORE: State ignores World Bank, ends Kenya Power monopoly

Previously, Safaricom, which runs the largest money transfer platform M-Pesa, has opposed attempts to hike taxes on mobile money transfers. The telecommunications firm has argued that such an increase would hurt low-income earners and their families who rely on mobile money services such as M-Pesa.

But according to the National Treasury, M-Pesa was licensed by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) in the late 2000s as a pay service provider (PSP) and as a result, its charges on money transfers are subject to VAT of 16 percent as proposed by the Finance Bill 2026.

Currently, Safaricom charges Sh7 for M-Pesa transfers of between Sh101 and Sh500 and a maximum of Sh108 for transfers of Sh50,000 and above. Transfers that fall below Sh100 are not charged.

Nairobi to host Government and Public Sector Project Management conference

Bizna Team
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Nairobi to host Government and Public Sector Project Management conference

Project Management Institute (PMI), Kenya Chapter, will convene public sector leaders, development partners, and project management professionals for the Government and Public Sector Industry Project Management Conference 2026, set to take place on 28th May 2026 in Nairobi.

Held under the theme “Delivering Kenya’s Development Agenda Through Project Management” and the tagline “From Policy to Impact,” the conference will focus on strengthening the link between national policy formulation and measurable development outcomes through structured project execution.

Investment in public sector projects

Kenya continues to invest heavily in public sector projects, with government expenditure on development projects accounting for approximately 30–35% of the national budget in recent years. However, multiple reports indicate that up to 40% of public projects in developing economies face delays, cost overruns, or fail to achieve intended outcomes due to weak project management frameworks. The conference aims to address these gaps by promoting standardized practices, capacity building, and cross-sector collaboration.

The event is expected to attract participants drawn from government ministries, state corporations, county governments, donor-funded programs, and private sector organizations working closely with the public sector. Discussions will center on improving project delivery efficiency, enhancing accountability, and aligning implementation with Kenya’s long-term development strategies, including Vision 2030 and subsequent national development plans.

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Project management awareness

Maureen Ochang’, PMI Kenya Chapter President, notes that the conference also seek to expand awareness of project management as a strategic enabler within the public sector. Currently, PMI estimates that organizations using standardized project management practices waste 28 times less money than those that do not, underscoring the potential economic impact of improved execution.

Onchang’ goes on to emphasize the urgency of strengthening project delivery systems within government institutions. “Kenya has no shortage of strong policies and ambitious development plans. The challenge has consistently been in execution. This conference is about equipping public sector professionals with the tools, frameworks, and networks needed to translate policy into tangible, measurable impact,” she says.

The conference will also contribute to increasing member value for PMI professionals working in the public sector, a segment that continues to grow as governments adopt more structured approaches to project governance. Globally, demand for project management-oriented roles is expected to grow by 33% by 2027, translating to nearly 22 million new jobs, with the public sector playing a significant role in this expansion.

Sessions will include panel discussions, case studies, and technical presentations focusing on areas such as project governance, risk management, digital transformation, and performance measurement in public projects.

Co-op Bank Profit Jumps 18.1% to KSh 11.4 Billion in Q1 2026 on strong digital growth and MSME lending

Bizna Team
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Co-op Bank Profit Jumps 18.1% to KSh 11.4 Billion in Q1 2026 on strong digital growth and MSME lending

Co-op Bank has reported a strong start to 2026, posting an 18.1 per cent growth in profit before tax to KSh 11.37 billion for the first quarter ended March 31, 2026, up from KSh 9.63 billion in a similar period last year.

Profit after tax rose even faster by 21.3 per cent to KSh 8.41 billion, marking the lender’s best-ever quarterly performance and reinforcing its position among Kenya’s top-tier banks.

The performance reflects sustained execution of the bank’s 2025–2029 “Good to Great” strategy and the ongoing “Soaring Eagle” transformation agenda.

Balance Sheet Expansion Signals Strong Market Position

Co-op Bank’s balance sheet continued to expand, underpinned by growth in deposits, loans, and government securities.

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Total assets grew by 14.3 per cent to KSh 884.6 billion, while customer deposits increased by 16.6 per cent to KSh 612.2 billion. Net loans and advances rose by 13.6 per cent to KSh 436.8 billion, indicating sustained credit demand across key sectors of the economy.

The bank also increased its holdings in government securities by 12.7 per cent to KSh 272.9 billion, supporting liquidity management and income diversification.

Shareholders’ funds rose by 11.5 per cent to KSh 173.8 billion, reflecting retained earnings growth and a strengthening capital base.

Profitability and Efficiency Metrics Remain Strong

The lender maintained strong profitability metrics, with return on average equity standing at 20.4 per cent—well above industry benchmarks.

Net interest income rose by 12.2 per cent to KSh 15.98 billion, while total operating income increased by 13.6 per cent to KSh 24.05 billion.

Operating expenses grew at a slower rate of 8.4 per cent, resulting in an improved cost-to-income ratio of 44.3 per cent before provisions, demonstrating operational efficiency gains.

Liquidity and capital adequacy remained robust, with a liquidity ratio of 63.4 per cent and total capital to risk-weighted assets at 23.2 per cent—well above regulatory thresholds.

Asset Quality Improves Despite Market Pressures

The bank reported improved asset quality, with the non-performing loans (NPL) ratio declining to 14.5 per cent from 17.0 per cent in Q1 2025.

Provisioning coverage stood at 80.1 per cent, reflecting prudent risk management in a still-challenging macroeconomic environment characterized by high interest rates and constrained liquidity.

Co-op Bank Profit Jumps 18.1% to KSh 11.4 Billion in Q1 2026 on strong digital growth and MSME lending
Co-op Bank Profit Jumps 18.1% to KSh 11.4 Billion in Q1 2026 on strong digital growth and MSME lending

Digital Banking Now Dominates Transactions

Co-op Bank’s digital strategy continues to deliver scale and efficiency.

Over 90 per cent of all customer transactions are now processed through alternative channels, including mobile, internet, and USSD platforms. This shift significantly reduces cost-to-serve while enhancing customer convenience.

The bank’s distribution network remains extensive, supported by:

  • Over 16,200 Co-op Kwa Jirani agents
  • 615 ATMs and cash deposit machines
  • 222 branches across Kenya and the region
  • 619 SACCO front offices
  • Diaspora banking also gained traction, with the customer base exceeding 22,000.

MSME Lending and E-Credit Drive Financial Inclusion

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) remain central to Co-op Bank’s growth model.

The bank disbursed KSh 19.11 billion in digital E-credit during the quarter, with cumulative disbursements surpassing KSh 520 billion since inception.

Over 264,000 MSMEs are now onboarded onto tailored banking solutions, while more than 71,000 entrepreneurs benefited from capacity-building and training programs.

MSMEs account for 16.8 per cent of the loan book and 22.6 per cent of total deposits—highlighting their strategic importance.

Unlock instant loans, free transactions with Co-op credit card

Youth Banking Strategy Targets 10 Million Customers

The bank is aggressively expanding its youth banking segment through a dedicated Youth Financial Services division.

During the quarter, over 100,000 young people accessed financial literacy programs, while digital platforms enabled seamless access to savings, credit, and investment products, including money market funds and bonds.

The long-term target is to serve over 10 million youth customers, positioning the bank at the center of Kenya’s next generation of economic participants.

Subsidiaries Deliver Strong Growth

Co-op Bank’s subsidiaries posted solid performance, reinforcing the group’s universal banking model.

  • Kingdom Bank nearly doubled its profit before tax to KSh 446.2 million
  • Co-op Bancassurance grew its profit by 39.5 per cent to KSh 560.4 million
  • Co-optrust Investment Services more than doubled its profit, supported by KSh 489 billion in funds under management
  • Co-op Bank South Sudan returned to profitability
  • Kingdom Securities recorded a 38 per cent increase in profit

Sustainability and ESG Commitments Deepen

The bank continued to embed environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into its operations, aligning with global standards such as IFRS sustainability frameworks and Kenya’s Green Finance Taxonomy.

Through the Co-op Bank Foundation, over 12,500 students have benefited from education scholarships, while advisory services supported nearly 4,000 cooperative enterprises during the quarter.

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Global Recognition and Outlook

The lender’s growth has earned international recognition, including being named among Africa’s fastest-growing companies by the Financial Times and winning the “Best Bank in Kenya 2026” award by Global Finance.

Strategic Outlook

Co-op Bank’s Q1 performance reflects a disciplined execution model anchored on digital scale, MSME financing, and a deeply embedded cooperative ecosystem.

In the current Kenyan context—defined by tight liquidity, elevated borrowing costs, and cautious consumer spending—this model offers resilience. The bank is not merely growing; it is compounding advantages across distribution, customer segments, and capital efficiency.

For business leaders and policymakers, the signal is clear: institutions that align technology, financial inclusion, and sector-specific ecosystems will outperform in volatile markets.

The long-term question is not growth alone, but the quality and inclusiveness of that growth. Co-op Bank is positioning itself on the right side of that equation.

Kenchic accelerates Mtaani Butchery expansion across Kenya

Bizna Team
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Kenchic accelerates Mtaani Butchery expansion across Kenya

Kenchic PLC has opened a new Kenchic Mtaani Butchery in Imaara Daima, the latest addition to a rapidly growing network of neighbourhood outlets being rolled out across the country. The expansion signals a deliberate push by Kenchic to build a meaningful retail channel within residential communities, putting fresh, hygienic, and fairly priced protein directly where Kenyan families live and shop.

Kenchic Mtaani Butchery near you

The Kenchic Mtaani Butchery model has been developed to address a longstanding market gap: consumers who want the quality assurance and food safety standards of a national brand, combined with the convenience and flexibility of a local butchery. Unlike supermarket formats, Mtaani outlets are embedded in residential neighbourhoods, allowing customers to buy in portions that suit their daily needs, access consistent stock, and shop from a business built to serve the immediate community.

Kenchic accelerates Mtaani Butchery expansion across Kenya
Jim Tozer, Kenchic PLC, MD

The Imaara Daima outlet, located in the heart of the estate, will serve households, walk-in shoppers, caterers, and small food businesses in the area. It follows recent openings in other Nairobi neighbourhoods and forms part of a broader rollout that will see the Mtaani network continue to grow in the months ahead.

Speaking on the expansion, Jim Tozer, Managing Director of Kenchic PLC, said the company sees neighbourhood retail as one of its most important growth channels going forward.

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“Kenchic Mtaani is about more than opening butcheries. It’s about building a credible, trusted retail presence at the community level, one outlet at a time. Kenyan families deserve access to fresh, well-handled protein without having to travel far or compromise on quality.

The Mtaani network is how we make that happen at scale,” said Mr Tozer.

Food safety and hygiene standards

Each Kenchic Mtaani outlet operates under strict food safety and hygiene standards, offering a range of fresh chicken cuts at transparent, competitive prices. The format is designed to serve both households and small commercial buyers, such as eateries, caterers, and food vendors, who depend on a reliable daily supply.

As the network expands, Kenchic aims to make the Mtaani channel a recognised and trusted feature of more Kenyan neighbourhoods, strengthening access to safe, affordable protein while deepening the brand’s presence in the communities it serves.

Residents of Imaara Daima and surrounding areas are invited to visit the new outlet.

First lady Rachel Ruto leads African call to protect children in an AI-driven digital world

Peninnnah M
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First lady Rachel Ruto leads African call to protect children in an AI-driven digital world

In a significant gathering at the State House Nairobi, Her Excellency Rachel Ruto, First Lady of the Republic of Kenya, led an important call to action focused on “Building Safer Digital Spaces for Children in Africa in an AI-Driven World.” This event was a key part of the Africa Forward Summit (AFS) and highlighted a shared commitment across the continent to ensure that technological growth does not compromise child safety.

The event attracted notable African leaders, including First Ladies and spouses such as H.E. Lauriane Darboux épouse Doumbouya from Guinea, H.E. Marisoa Elisa Berthine from Madagascar, H.E. Philile Dlamini from Eswatini, and Hon. Neema Ngure Nchemba, wife of the Tanzanian Prime Minister. Adding significant historical weight to the dialogue was H.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, former President of Liberia, along with representatives from World Vision International, the United Nations, and global technology leaders.

In her keynote address, First Lady Rachel Ruto stressed that while Africa’s rapid digital growth offers unprecedented educational and economic opportunities, it also brings complex risks that current systems cannot address. She called for a “safe-by-design” approach to Artificial Intelligence, arguing that safety should be a core part of the digital economy. “Progress must never outpace protection,” she said, pointing to Kenya’s proactive rollout of the National AI Strategy (2025-2030) as a model for responsible innovation.

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The discussions shifted from theory to practical solutions. Participants focused on creating harmonized regional regulations to stop digital offenders from taking advantage of gaps in jurisdiction and on ensuring sustainable funding for survivor services. Hon. Neema Ngure Nchemba highlighted the need for digital content to remain culturally sensitive and age-appropriate.

By emphasizing the “voice of the youth,” the event incorporated views from young representatives who will shape this digital future. As the Africa Forward Summit wraps up, the resolutions arising from this session show a united African commitment to ensure that the next generation is not only connected to the world but also protected within it.

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