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Details of new TSC promotion reforms for all teachers in Kenya

Maina Andrew
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Details of new TSC promotion reforms for all teachers in Kenya

Details of the new TSC promotion reforms for teachers in Kenya can now be revealed. According to the promotion reforms, Kenyan teachers will no longer have to wait for decades in order to achieve the highest ranked promotion level.

At the same time, Kenyan teachers will be able to achieve these credentials and the accompanying pay raise without leaving the classroom. These TSC promotion reforms are contained in the 2026 Career Progression Guidelines (CPG) document.

In this document, the Teachers Service Commission has slashed the amount of time that is required for teachers to reach the highest grade from 30 to 18 years.

The reforms indicate that the teachers commission shall introduce separate career tracks to cater for classroom teachers and teachers who hold leadership and administrative roles. Under these tracks, teachers will move up within a unified grading structure that shall range from Teacher 9 to Teacher 1. Teacher 9 represents the entry-level grade while Teacher 1 represents the highest-level grade.

Teachers in primary school level will start their progression from Teacher 9 while those in secondary schools who hold diploma qualifications will start off at Teacher 8. According to the TSC, this shall mean that a diploma qualification will attract the same entry grade regardless of whether the teacher practices at primary school or secondary school.

For the second track catering for secondary school teachers, the majority will start off at Teacher 7. This group will mainly be made up of teachers who hold university degrees.

The proposed reforms show that this category of teachers will benefit from the first common cadre promotion of Teacher 6. After Teacher 6, subsequent promotion will primarily be based on the teacher’s demonstrated competency and performance instead of the current mode of automatic advancement.

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The majority of teachers based at Teacher Training Colleges (TTCs) will start at Teacher 5 and move up through the full career structure up to the top level of Teacher 1.

After the release of the proposals, the Kenya National Teachers Union (KNUT) came out to raise the red flag on how youthful teachers with higher academic qualifications will be moved up.

“How will the framework accommodate such teachers so that they are not demoralized or disadvantaged by differences in the timing of qualification attainment?” KNUT Deputy Secretary General Hesbon Otieno asked.

Isuzu East Africa hosts 2026 IEA-1 grand prix skills competition, Elevating automotive excellence

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Isuzu East Africa hosts 2026 IEA-1 grand prix skills competition, Elevating automotive excellence
In a powerful demonstration of technical mastery and service excellence, Isuzu East Africa hosted its flagship 2026 IEA-1 Grand Prix Skills Competition on June 10, 2026. The annual event serves as the company’s premier internal platform, designed to test, refine, and reward the brightest talents across its expansive dealer network. By bringing together the region’s top automotive professionals, the competition underscores a vital industry truth: in the modern automotive landscape, continuous training is just as important as the engineering under the hood.
The IEA-1 Grand Prix is far more than a routine evaluation. It is an intense, multi-disciplinary arena that gathers top-performing dealership personnel across four core pillars of operational success. Automotive technicians are tested on complex mechanical diagnostics, electrical troubleshooting, and precision repair under tight time constraints, while service advisors are evaluated on customer handling, accurate symptom diagnosis, and clear communication under pressure.
Concurrently, spare parts specialists were challenged on logistical efficiency and inventory accuracy, while sales representatives were assessed on product knowledge and consultative relationship-building. Participants faced a rigorous mix of theoretical, knowledge-based exams and hands-on, practical simulations modeled closely after real-world dealership challenges.

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For Isuzu East Africa, investing in this competitive showcased directly influences the end-user experience. The precision, speed, and problem-solving skills honed during the Grand Prix translate directly to reduced vehicle downtime and higher first-time-fix rates for everyday truck and commercial vehicle owners.
Beyond individual accolades, the event was a knowledge-sharing hub where dealership teams from diverse regions collaborated, swap best practices, and collectively elevated their alignment with rigorous international automotive standards. The initiative reflects a long-term strategy to cultivate a high-performance workforce, ensuring vehicle safety, reliability, and superior after-sales support across the board by pushing teams to benchmark against global standards.
The stakes at the IEA-1 Grand Prix extend far beyond regional bragging rights. Outstanding performers from the June 10 competition earn elite recognition within the company and put themselves in the running for a massive career milestone: the opportunity to represent East Africa at global Isuzu technical competitions in Japan. As the 2026 edition concludes, Isuzu East Africa firmly cements its position not just as a leading vehicle manufacturer, but as a primary driver of industrial workforce development and customer service innovation in the region.

Yamal award shifts betting focus

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Yamal award shifts betting focus

Lamine Yamal has been named LaLiga Player of the Season for 2025/26 after a campaign that made him one of Barcelona’s main attacking references. The award follows a title-winning season for the club, with Yamal finishing the league campaign on 16 goals and 11 assists. In betting media, partner content linked to the afropari affiliate program may sit near award stories and season forecasts, but the real sporting angle is clear: Yamal’s influence changes how Barcelona are priced before the next campaign. His numbers now matter for title markets, player props and big-match previews.

Why the award matters

Individual awards do not win matches by themselves, but they do shape expectations. Yamal was not rewarded for one highlight or one strong month. His season combined end product, creativity, one-on-one threat and consistency across Barcelona’s title run.

That is important for betting analysis because markets react to repeatable impact. A player who creates chances, scores, assists and draws defensive attention can influence several types of prices. Barcelona’s match-winner odds, team goals, player assist markets and futures lines can all move when one attacker becomes this central to the team’s output.

The key is balance. The award raises confidence in Yamal’s level, but it also raises market attention. A popular player can become overpriced if public money follows the name more than the actual matchup.

Betting angle Why Yamal matters
Barcelona outright markets His form supports title confidence
Match winner odds He increases attacking trust
Player goal markets His finishing output is now proven
Assist markets His creative volume adds value
Team total goals Barcelona looks stronger with him active
Big-game previews Opponents must adjust defensive plans

Barcelona gets more than numbers

Yamal’s 16 goals and 11 assists are strong enough on their own, but his wider value comes from how he changes Barcelona’s attack. He stretches defenses, opens space for teammates and forces opponents to shift cover toward his side.

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That creates betting relevance beyond player props. If a rival doubles him, Barcelona may find space elsewhere. If the opponent leaves him isolated against one defender, the match can tilt quickly. This is why tactical context matters more than award status alone.

For pre-match betting, the better questions are simple:

  • Is Yamal starting and expected to play full minutes?
  • Does the opponent defend wide areas well?
  • Are Barcelona likely to control possession?
  • Does the match suit goals, assists or team totals?
  • Has the market already shortened too much?

These checks help avoid betting only on hype.

Betting markets will watch his next step

Yamal’s award also affects long-term expectations. Barcelona will enter the next season with a proven match-winner in attack, but that brings extra pressure. Teams will prepare more specific plans against him. Referees, tactical fouls, rotation and fixture congestion can all influence his week-to-week output.

For bettors, this makes selective markets more useful than automatic backing. In some matches, Yamal to score may look attractive. In others, assist markets, Barcelona over goals or team win plus goals may fit better. The choice should depend on opponent’s style and starting lineup, not only on the award.

Affiliate and media operators covering LaLiga may also use season awards to frame betting content. A phrase such as revshare gambling affiliate program can appear in business discussions around traffic and player acquisition, but editorial betting analysis still needs sporting evidence. Yamal’s award is a strong signal, not a shortcut.

The risk of overreaction

The biggest betting mistake after an award is assuming the same output will appear every week. LaLiga is not static. Rivals adapt. Coaches adjust. Barcelona may rotate. A player can perform well and still fail to score or assist in a single match.

That is why responsible staking matters. Player markets can feel exciting, but they should stay inside a fixed budget. No award should push larger stakes, recovery bets or careless accumulators.

The smarter approach is to treat Yamal as a major factor in Barcelona analysis, then test each market separately. If the price is fair and the matchup supports it, he belongs in the betting conversation. If the odds are too short, the better bet may be elsewhere.

What the award says now

Yamal’s LaLiga Player of the Season award confirms his place at the centre of Barcelona’s current project. It also gives bettors a clearer reference point for future forecasts: he is not only a talent with promise, but a player whose production already changed a title race.

The most realistic betting read is measured confidence. Barcelona should remain strong in outright and match markets if Yamal keeps this level. His player props will attract attention, but value will depend on price, role and matchup.

The award is deserved. The betting lesson is colder: great players matter, but the right market matters more.

US embassy cancels hundreds of visas over birth tourism

Patricia Akinyi
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US embassy cancels hundreds of visas over birth tourism

The United States government has cancelled hundreds of tourist visas over birth tourism.

This is after investigations by the US State Department unearthed elaborate networks promoting thia type of visa fraud in Africa.

“Under President Trump, the State Department is defending the integrity of US citizenship by ending illegal visa schemes. No foreigner is permitted to obtain a visitor visa for the primary purpose of acquiring citizenship for a child by giving birth in the US,” a statement by the department said.

The statement further said that a US embassy in West Africa had uncovered a sophisticated birth tourism network of more than 100 foreign nationals using fraudulent documents and visa “fixers” to get themselves visas in order to get citizenship for their children.

“We shut it down, revoked these foreign nationals’ visas, and are coordinating with local authorities to systematically identify and cut off any similar operations,” the department said.

“In Europe, a US embassy identified more than 400 suspected cases since 2024. Investigators traced them to at least six companies that coached applicants on what to say in their visa interview, arranged U.S. housing, and set up delivery plans. We shut it down, revoked their visas, and permanently banned several fraudsters from traveling to the United States ever again.”

The rise of birth tourism appeared to be more prevalent in West and North of Africa. According to the State Department, one embassy in North Africa revoked over 100 visas for “birth tourist” parents who came to the United States primarily to give birth so their children would get citizenship.

“Consular officers – working with law enforcement and using data analytics – identified several networks abusing the system and put a stop to it,” the statement said.

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“A US visa is a privilege, not a right. The State Department is taking action around the world to stop this abuse, dismantle birth tourism networks, and hold accountable those who try to scam our system.”

Secure Escrow and Trade Facilitation Platform

Bizna Team
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Secure Escrow and Trade Facilitation Platform

Look at how finance has changed in Kenya over the last ten years, it’s like a whole new world. Not long ago, investing in global markets felt reserved for professionals in Nairobi’s financial district or big institutions with deep pockets. Now anyone with a smartphone and an internet connection can open a trading account and access markets in New York, London or Dubai within minutes.

And the numbers don’t lie. Kenya’s mobile money ecosystem is one of the most advanced globally. Over 90% of adults use mobile-based financial services like M-Pesa for daily transactions. That digital comfort has spilled over into online trading. More people are trying their hand at forex, commodities and global indices.

But here’s the thing: Not every platform is created equal. Kenyan traders, especially the growing middle class and young professionals, are picking up on what separates a solid platform from a risky one.

What online trading platforms actually do

Basically, an online trading platform is a digital gateway to financial markets. It lets traders buy and sell currencies, stocks, commodities and indices in real time.

There’s no more calling a broker. Everything happens through apps or web platforms. Prices update on the spot, trades go through in seconds and users can keep track of their portfolios from anywhere.

Globally, retail trading has taken off. Industry reports say retail forex trading alone handles trillions globally in daily volume, and most new traders are jumping in through mobile-first platforms. Kenya’s right there, actually among the fastest-growing regions in Africa for retail trading.

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Why Kenyan traders are comparing platforms more carefully

There’s a shift happening. Traders are not signing up based on flashy ads or random referrals anymore. They’re checking features, trying demo accounts and reading reviews.

One major factor is global market access. Kenyan traders don’t want just forex anymore. They’re after commodities, such as gold and oil, and international stocks and indices too. That thinking is growing because people are looking long term. Instead of chasing quick wins, more traders want to balance risk across different markets.

That’s also why platforms marketing themselves as the best trading platform in Kenya tend to get attention, especially if they offer global market access, fast execution and secure systems.

Security is not optional anymore

If Kenyan traders talk about one thing constantly, it’s trust. And it’s not surprising. With online scams still floating around, traders want platforms that feel legit from day one. That means regulated operations, encrypted transactions and clear fees.

A platform that offers a secure trading environment gets noticed. People want to know their deposits are safe and they can withdraw without waiting forever or worrying about their money disappearing.

Instant withdrawals are a game changer here. Nobody wants to wait three to five business days just to access their funds anymore. Speed is now part of trust.

Execution speed can make or break trades

Ask any active trader, and they’ll tell you the same thing: Timing is everything. In the forex or commodities world, prices can change in seconds. Gold spikes after a US inflation report, oil drops after some geopolitical news. If your platform slows you down, you miss out.

Ultra-fast execution is one of the hottest topics right now. Even milliseconds make a difference, especially for short-term traders.

Platforms with instant execution and stable servers stand out. It’s not just about convenience, it’s survival in volatile markets.

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The mobile-first reality in Kenya

How do people usually trade here? It’s all about mobile. From banking to shopping, almost everything happens on phones. Trading has followed the same path.

The majority of retail trading activity in emerging markets happens on mobile devices now. So if a platform doesn’t have a slick mobile app, it’s losing ground. Traders want something simple. They want to check prices on the go, make trades fast and see profits without needing a laptop.

Tools that actually help, not confuse

Kenyan traders are getting wise about trading tools too. A few years ago, most ignored charts and indicators. Now, that’s changing fast.

People are learning about technical analysis, support and resistance and economic calendars. Platforms that offer these tools in a straightforward way are getting loyal users.

The rise of faster payments and expectations

There’s also a big shift in how traders handle their money. Kenya’s digital payment culture sets a high bar. If people can send money instantly via mobile money, they expect the same speed when withdrawing trading profits.

Instant withdrawals are a must now, not just a perk. Slow payouts are often the reason traders ditch a platform.

List of businesses that seemed profitable until we started them

Jane Muia
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List of businesses that seemed profitable until we started them

Many aspiring entrepreneurs are often attracted to business ventures based on reports and success stories highlighting their profitability.

The prospect of substantial returns, rapid success, and financial independence frequently inspires individuals to commit their time, effort, and resources to these opportunities.

However, while some ventures may indeed generate significant profits, relying solely on hearsay rather than thorough research can result in unrealistic expectations and significant financial losses.

In the Facebook group Tujengane, several members have shared frustrations over businesses they launched with hopes of strong returns, only to encounter disappointing outcomes.

The discussion emerged after one member posed a question about ventures that appear lucrative in theory but turn out differently once they are established.

“What business or project did you hear was profitable, but after you started it and got it off the ground, the reality was completely different? Please share your experience,” the user wrote.

Among the businesses that were named are Mitumba business, general shop, fast food business, wines and spirits and poultry farming, among others.

According to Jedie Karuhiu, who had a fast food joint, the profit margin of the venture is low and this makes it unsustainable.

“Fast food’s business,,,, I did good pricing but Mimi niliona nikama tu pesa inarotate kwa business faida ni kidogo it’s not worth the hard work…Kwanza chipo, ukitoa every expense and I mean everything unabaki na kidogo sana, Iko busy Kila saa, kuuza unauza but faidi ni less na vile kazi yenyewe ni tiresome,” She wrote.

Other users who shared their experiences wrote:

Denis Fundi: Hotel is not for the faint-hearted, has many tricky areas kitchen, procurement ,counter, waiter management, customer management. All these must tendem to make sales.

Juma Shaban: Dopper farmers they exaggerates issues hapa..once umenunua kwao ..wewe kupata wakuuzia ninoma sana .

Mwari Wa Kamau: Wines and spirits shop, makarao hukula kama walikupea capital

Marya Kendi: General Shop. Your valued customers start buying when they finish there shopping they shopped @the supermarket ,after 3days shopping daily wanaanza kukukopa hadi end month then on the 1st weekend of end month they come clear their debt as they head to do the massive supermarket shopping till the shopping is done.

Undoubtedly, hundreds of entrepreneurs have succeeded in some of the aforementioned businesses, which highlights the need for proper research before venturing into any business.

“Most people fail because of location choice, not following their passion and over expectation,” Bonye Ndoch, one of the members noted.

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Family Bank receives regulatory nod to list on the Nairobi Securities Exchange

Bizna Team
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Family Bank receives regulatory nod to list on the Nairobi Securities Exchange

Family Bank has received formal approval from the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) to list on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) by way of introduction.

Listing by introduction will allow current shareholders to trade their shares on the NSE, broaden investor participation by allowing other investors to trade the Bank’s shares in a more efficient way and enable the market to establish a fair and transparent price for the Bank’s shares.

“Our vision to positively transform people’s lives in Africa has remained unchanged and this listing will accelerate the realization of that vision. In line with this ambition, and in our commitment to enhancing shareholder value and improving liquidity, the decision for the Bank to list follows years of strategic preparation to ensure we list from a position of strength,” said Family Bank Managing Director Nancy Njau.

The Bank’s decision to list by introduction is underpinned by its strong capital position as it remains well capitalized and does not seek to raise additional capital. In 2025, the Bank conducted a Private Placement Offer which successfully raised Ksh 8 billion against an initial target of Ksh 6.09 billion, representing a 131% achievement.

Family Bank ready for NSE listing after shareholders’ approval

“Through the capital raising initiatives, we have strengthened our balance sheet and remain confident in our strategy, our capital position, and our ability to deliver sustainable growth and long-term value. The Bank is well positioned for growth as per our 2025 – 2029 strategic plan anchored on being The Preferred Bank for Biashara,” added Ms Nancy.

Following the exceptional 55.4% growth profitability in 2025, Family Bank sustained its growth trajectory in Q1 2026 delivering a 52.6% increase in Profit After Tax to KES 1.6 billion up from KES 1.0 billion, driven by sustained growth in interest-earning assets and diversified income streams, supported by a strong balance sheet.

With the approval, the Bank will list on the Nairobi Securities Exchange on 23 June 2026 further reaffirming its commitment to deliver sustainable growth and marks the next step in the Bank’s growth trajectory and long-term value creation journey.

The lead transaction advisors are Standard Investment Bank (SIB), PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) as the reporting accountants and Mboya Wangong’u & Waiyaki Advocates as the legal advisors.

Family Bank receives regulatory nod to list on the Nairobi Securities Exchange 
Nancy Njau, Managing Director – Family Bank

JICA and LIXIL partner to launch “Sanitation Economy” in Africa, targeting 500,000 people

Bizna Team
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JICA and LIXIL partner to launch “Sanitation Economy” in Africa, targeting 500,000 people

Sanitation Economy: The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and LIXIL Corporation (LIXIL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to accelerate global access to safe sanitation and hygiene. This public-private partnership aims to reach 500,000 people across Africa, the Middle East, and Asia by fostering a self-sustaining “Sanitation Economy.”

The global sanitation crisis remains a critical development challenge, impacting health, education, and economic stability. Diarrheal diseases linked to poor hygiene claim the lives of approximately 440,000 children annually. As climate change increases the frequency of natural disasters, the need for resilient, localized infrastructure is urgent.

A New Model for Sustainable Change

This partnership bridges JICA’s institutional expertise with LIXIL’s SATO business model, which provides affordable, accessible sanitation solutions. Moving beyond traditional aid, the initiative focuses on creating local ecosystems, encompassing manufacturing, sales, and maintenance, that empower communities to sustain their own facilities.

“Global challenges surrounding water and sanitation remain severe, and many people still lack access to safe sanitation and hygiene services. It has also become clear that simply building facilities does not ensure that hygiene practices take root, “ commented Akihiko Tanaka, President of JICA, highlighting the urgent need to create mechanisms that function sustainably on the ground.

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“This partnership with LIXIL brings together JICA’s strengths in institutional development and government cooperation with LIXIL’s expertise in product development, market creation, and field-level business expansion. By doing so, we aim to move beyond conventional aid and realize a ‘Sanitation Economy’ where sanitation services circulate autonomously.

By accumulating concrete achievements on the ground, starting with Kenya and Malawi, we will deliver sustainable changes to the lives of people in developing countries as a model for Japanese public-private partnership.”

“Globally, approximately 3.4 billion people still lack access to safely managed sanitation,” added Kinya Seto, President and CEO of LIXIL. “LIXIL has set a goal to improve sanitation and hygiene for the ‘next 100 million people’ by the fiscal year ending March 2031.

To address complex and profound global challenges, including sanitation access, refugee self-reliance, and climate change, we must further accelerate the creation of a market-driven ‘Sanitation Economy’ that grows autonomously on the ground, leveraging this new public-private partnership with JICA and national governments.”

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Initial Focus: Kenya and Malawi

The partnership will launch in Kenya and Malawi, targeting homes, schools, and healthcare facilities:

  • Kenya: In collaboration with the Kenyan government’s “Shirika Plan,” the initiative will support refugee self-reliance in the Kakuma region by integrating JICA’s water infrastructure with LIXIL’s SATO products.
  • Malawi: The partnership will focus on climate-resilient water and sanitation systems capable of withstanding natural disasters.

This initiative does more than solve local challenges; it contributes to global health and stability while demonstrating the impact of Japanese corporate technology and expertise in sustainable development.

UNDP opens 500 paid placement opportunities for young Kenyan graduates

Jane Muia
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UNDP opens 500 paid placement opportunities for young Kenyan graduates

Thousands of young graduates across Kenya are set to benefit from a new employment initiative unveiled by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) aimed at tackling youth unemployment in the country.

The programme, dubbed NextGen, is expected to provide 500 paid placements for recent graduates, with the pilot phase expected to commence within the next two months.

UNDP says the initiative is designed to equip young professionals with practical workplace experience while enhancing their prospects for long-term employment.

Speaking during a television interview, UNDP Kenya Resident Representative Dr. Jean-Luc Stalon announced that the organisation is in the final stages of developing a digital platform that will manage applications, recruitment and placement of successful candidates in private sector companies across the country.

“We are in the final stages of developing the platform and expect to launch the pilot programme soon, starting with approximately 500 placements,” said Stalon.

Under the programme, graduates will apply through a dedicated online portal. Successful applicants will then be matched with participating companies through a recruitment system being developed jointly by UNDP and the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA).

The placements will run for a period of one year, providing participants with valuable hands-on experience while earning a monthly stipend of between Sh20,000 and Sh25,000.

According to UNDP, the financial support is intended to encourage companies to take on young professionals while enabling graduates to develop workplace skills, gain industry exposure and improve their employability.

The initiative will be open to employers across a wide range of economic sectors, with organisers seeking broad participation from businesses committed to supporting youth development and workforce growth.

Stalon said measures are also being put in place to ensure equitable regional representation among beneficiaries and to promote gender balance throughout the selection process.

UNDP further revealed that several corporate leaders have already expressed interest in joining the programme by offering placement opportunities within their organisations, signalling strong private sector support for the initiative.

It further expressed confidence that the program would play a significant role in bridging the gap between education and employment, providing young graduates with a pathway to meaningful work experience while helping employers access emerging talent.

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KCB Group disburses KShs. 48.8 Billion worth of Green Loans as it screens KShs. 587.9 Billion to support its sustainable finance targets

Bizna Team
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KCB Group disburses KShs. 48.8 Billion worth of Green Loans as it screens KShs. 587.9 Billion to support its sustainable finance targets

KCB Group Plc disbursed KShs. 48.8 billion in green financing loans to support environmentally sustainable projects in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, green buildings, clean transportation, water management, and climate-smart investments. Out of this, KShs. 9.9 billion was independently verified as climate-eligible using the Climate Assessment for Financial Institutions (CAFI) tool.

At the same time, the lender screened KShs. 587.9 billion worth of transactions under its Environmental and Social Due Diligence framework covering operations across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Rwanda as part of its commitment to accelerating the transition toward a low-carbon economy. The milestone enabled the Group to surpass its strategic target of allocating 25% of total lending to green projects, reaching 25.84% in 2025, up from 21.6% in 2024.

The disclosures are contained in the 2025 KCB Group Sustainability Report themed “Transitioning Economies” marking a defining moment in the Group’s strategic journey to position sustainable finance as a driver of inclusive economic transformation across East Africa.

KCB Exceeds Green Lending Targets Across East Africa

Commenting on the progress, KCB Group CEO, Paul Russo noted that the Bank is intentionally aligning its financing decisions and business strategy to support climate resilience and sustainable enterprise growth as a catalyst for long-term economic prosperity, environmental stewardship, and inclusive development across the markets in which it operates.

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“KCB seeks to be a bigger player in shaping a robust and sustainable financial ecosystem throughout East Africa by continuously developing tailored green financing solutions for MSMEs, households, and corporates in order to support the adoption of sustainable practices across key sectors. This will be enabled through strengthened partnerships with global climate financiers to mobilise capital at scale, product innovation and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon and climate resilient economy throughout the region,” said Russo.

Tree Planting and Clean Energy Initiatives Deliver Environmental Impact

Beyond financing, the Group continued to invest in practical environmental conservation initiatives through the ongoing tree growing campaign which has become a significant milestone in supporting Kenya’s national climate action agenda and ecosystem restoration efforts. In 2025, the Bank surpassed its 2025 target of 1.5 million trees to plant more than 3.5 million trees. This achievement was driven by over 200 regionwide tree planting events, in collaboration with 1,778 schools and other partners.

The Group also made significant strides in advancing clean energy, particularly within the education sector through the Learning Institutions Customer Value Proposition (CVP) where the Bank supported 266 schools in adopting cleaner cooking systems, backed by KShs 782.5 million in financing, accelerating the transition away from traditional biomass fuels.

KCB Group Disburses KShs. 48.8 Billion Worth of Green Loans as it screens KShs. 587.9 Billion to Support its Sustainable Finance Targets
KCB Group Disburses KShs. 48.8 Billion Worth of Green Loans as it screens KShs. 587.9 Billion to Support its Sustainable Finance Targets

During the year, KCB also scaled its solarization agenda with installations now operational in 16 branches across the Group. Some of the branches benefiting from the initiative include Maasai Mara, Wajir, Mandera, Watamu, Lamu, Loitoktok, Kakuma, and Namanga, as well as the Karen Leadership Centre. The Group plans to expand solar power to 30 additional branches this year, further accelerating its shift toward cleaner energy sources.

As a result, KCB registered a 2% reduction in resource use for fuel and electricity, contributing to an overall 13% reduction in emissions across the Group. This highlights the Group’s continued focus on environmental sustainability through renewable energy adoption and operational efficiency initiatives aimed at reducing its carbon footprint and supporting the transition toward cleaner energy sources.

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KCB Foundation Supports Youth Employment and Enterprise Growth

Through the KCB Foundation programmes, over 265,300 jobs were supported, while 16,549 youth benefited from workforce readiness and skills development initiatives designed to enhance employability and enterprise growth. In addition, 38,635 youth-led businesses received structured business development support under the 2Jiajiri Young Africa Works programme, helping young entrepreneurs build sustainable enterprises and livelihoods. The Group has supported a total of 67,090 businesses, as part of its broader vision of driving inclusive economic transformation, empowering communities, and expanding opportunity for individuals and enterprises across all segments of society.

Women and Refugee Entrepreneurs Benefit from Inclusive Financing

The Group further advanced its inclusive financing agenda by disbursing KShs. 149 billion to women-led businesses through the Female-Led and Made Enterprise (FLME) programme, a key pillar of its broader five-year commitment to unlock KShs. 250 billion in financing for women entrepreneurs and enterprises.

In addition, KCB continued to deepen financial inclusion efforts among displaced and underserved communities, with 20,299 refugees gaining access to formal banking services. Leveraging UNHCR identification documentation, KCB has disbursed KShs. 71.4 million in loans to refugee entrepreneurs, enabling them to establish and grow businesses while supporting their economic participation and integration within local communities.

The report marks the lender’s third sustainability report to undergo a limited assurance review. Prepared in reference to the IFRS S1 and S2 Standards and published alongside the 2025 Integrated Report, it demonstrates the Group’s voluntary early adoption ahead of the mandatory deadline set for the 2027 reporting period.

KCB Group Disburses KShs. 48.8 Billion Worth of Green Loans as it screens KShs. 587.9 Billion to Support its Sustainable Finance Targets
KCB Group Disburses KShs. 48.8 Billion Worth of Green Loans as it screens KShs. 587.9 Billion to Support its Sustainable Finance Targets
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