ABSA BANK KENYA ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP TRANSITION

The Board of Absa Bank Kenya PLC has today announced the resignation of Abdi Mohamed from the role of Managing Director and CEO, effective 30 June 2026, to pursue other career opportunities.

Mr. Mohamed is leaving the Bank after a 32-year career during which he served in various leadership roles, including the last three years as CEO and MD of Absa Bank Kenya. He also previously served as Managing Director of Absa Bank Tanzania.

During his tenure, Mr. Mohamed has steered the Bank through defining moments that have not only enhanced organizational resilience but also created strong business growth, leading to the doubling of the Absa Kenya share price over a three-year period.

“The board and management of Absa Bank Kenya appreciate Mr. Mohamed for his leadership, diligence, outstanding service and contribution to Absa and wishes him the best in his future endeavours,” said Absa Bank Board of Directors Chairman Mr. Mohammed Nyaoga.

To ensure a smooth leadership transition, the Board has appointed Absa Bank Kenya’s Chief Financial Officer Yusuf Omari as Interim Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer with effect from 1st July 2026, subject to regulatory approvals. The Board will concurrently initiate the recruitment process for the substantive appointment for the position.

Mr. Omari is a highly accomplished executive with more than two decades of experience spanning Finance, Strategy, Risk Management, ESG, and Corporate Governance. With his rich strategic acumen, strong leadership capabilities, and commitment to driving sustainable growth, he is well equipped to guide the Bank through this transition and ensure continued momentum in the delivery of its strategic priorities.

“The Board is fully committed to supporting Mr. Omari and is confident in his ability to provide strong, steady, and effective leadership during this period of transition. We believe his extensive experience and deep understanding of the business will ensure that the Bank remains focused on executing its strategy, delivering value to stakeholders, and sustaining its growth trajectory,” said Mr. Nyaoga.

Commenting on the announcement, Abdi said, “Serving Absa for the past three decades has been one of the greatest privileges of my professional life. I have had the opportunity to work alongside exceptional colleagues, supportive boards, and valued customers across different markets, including Kenya and Tanzania. I am proud of what we have achieved together, particularly over the last three years. As I embark on a new chapter, I do so with immense gratitude and confidence in the Bank’s future. Absa Bank Kenya has a strong leadership team, a clear strategy, and tremendous potential, and I wish Yusuf and the entire team continued success.”  

Mr. Mohamed will proceed on gardening leave while serving notice and will remain available to the board and management to ensure a seamless transition process.

Absa remains well positioned to continue executing its strategy, supported by a strong leadership team and focused on delivering value for customers, colleagues and stakeholders. 

400 WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS WITH DISABILITIES SUPPORTED BY CCBA IN KENYA

Four hundred women vendors and small-scale retailers with disabilities have received beverage stock boosts and business training to help strengthen their micro-retailer businesses, supported by Coca-Cola Beverages Africa (CCBA) in Kenya in partnership with TechnoServe.

As part of the REsilience for Women with disAbilities through micro-Retail Development Support (REWARDS) programme, CCBA in Kenya has provided beverage stock boosts and branded merchandise to TechnoServe for distribution. The initiative aims to empower women entrepreneurs who face challenges such as limited market access, slow capability development, regulatory constraints, and competition from larger businesses.

Micro, small, and medium enterprises remain the backbone of Kenya’s economy, contributing about a third of GDP and providing the majority of employment opportunities, particularly in informal markets. However, women and persons with disabilities continue to encounter structural obstacles that hinder their growth and income stability. The REWARDS programme addresses these challenges by combining practical business training with tangible enterprise support, enabling participants to strengthen operations, increase product availability, and improve customer engagement. 

“At CCBA, our purpose is to refresh Africa and create shared value,” said Eric Githua, Public Affairs, Communication, and Sustainability Director at CCBA in Kenya. “Our business is centred on a local approach: we produce locally, distribute locally and where possible, source locally. Community involvement allows us to bring positive, measurable change to both the communities in which we operate and our business.”

Each participating retailer received Coca-Cola products and branded merchandise, as well as training delivered by TechnoServe. The training focused on strengthening operational efficiency, improving customer engagement, and supporting long-term business stability.

According to Githua, the programme reflects a commitment to creating practical pathways for local communities to strengthen their livelihoods. “Supporting small retailers requires solutions that respond directly to their daily realities. By combining skills development with tangible business tools, we are helping entrepreneurs stabilise and grow their enterprises,” he said.

TechnoServe’s Kenya Country Director, Kris Ansin, highlighted the value of collaboration in inclusive economic development. “Combining capacity building with stock support and improved visibility enables women micro-retailers to translate new skills into measurable improvements in their businesses and livelihoods,” he said.

The REWARDS programme is structured around clear implementation timelines and measurable indicators, including participation rates, stock distribution and observable improvements in business practices and sales consistency. Through this integrated approach, CCBA in Kenya and TechnoServe aim to stabilise and grow micro-enterprises, ultimately promoting participation in Kenya’s local economies.

ABSA BANK KENYA PARTNERS WITH GOOGLE HUSTLE ACADEMY TO TRAIN 3,000 SMEs OVER THE NEXT 12 MONTHS

Absa Bank Kenya PLC and Google Hustle Academy have announced a strategic partnership to provide comprehensive business training and financial support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the country over the next 12 months. The programme aims to reach and impact 3,000 SMEs and has so far rolled out 3 cohort training sessions with attendance of over 600 SMEs.

The collaboration seeks to equip entrepreneurs with the necessary digital skills, financial expertise, growth strategies, and knowledge to formalise and sustainably scale their businesses.

The Google Hustle Academy is a free, one-day virtual boot camp designed to help small businesses thrive in the digital economy. The programme focuses on scaling reach by training individuals in the latest AI-centered tools and techniques and by doing so, creating a long-term pathway for growth that connects learners directly to world-class Google products. The participants are taken through a structured curriculum on AI adoption and digital skills training to help them enhance and scale their business operations.

The programme is designed to be a highly interactive programme, combining practical workshops and mentorship sessions as well as peer-to-peer mentorship opportunities to ensure entrepreneurs leave with actionable insights for their businesses. 

Speaking about the partnership, Absa Bank Kenya Business Banking Director Renato D’souza, said: "We are thrilled to partner with Google to bring the Hustle Academy to more Kenyan entrepreneurs. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to empowering businesses with the tools they need to succeed. By combining Google's digital expertise with our financial solutions, we are confident that we can help SMEs formalise and grow their businesses."

Through this partnership, Absa Bank Kenya will provide participants with financial expertise and support, mentorship, and access to tailored SME banking solutions, including credit facilities, cash flow management tools, and market linkages. The collaboration aligns with Absa's long-term commitment to supporting the growth and development of the SME sector, which is a key driver of the Kenyan economy, contributing to more than 30% of the country’s GDP, and remains a critical driver of job creation.

The initiative also complements Google's mission to make digital skills and tools accessible to everyone, ensuring that small businesses can leverage technology to scale their operations and reach new customers.

On their part, Kristy Grant from the Google Hustle Academy said: “We believe that the future of Africa’s digital economy lies in the hands of individuals and entrepreneurs alike. Our new strategy focuses on scaling reach by training individuals in the latest AI-centered tools and techniques. By doing so, we are creating a long-term pathway for growth that connects learners directly to world-class Google products.”

KCB AND AIRTEL MONEY PARTNER TO DEEPEN FINANCIAL SERVICES

Airtel Money and KCB Bank have today unveiled a partnership that will enable Airtel Money customers to deposit and withdraw cash at the over 22,000 KCB Agents across the country.

The collaboration is expected to deepen financial inclusion by supporting the ongoing efforts by industry stakeholders to promote interoperability across Kenya’s financial sector, reducing barriers to financial access, enhancing customer experience and strengthening the country's digital financial ecosystem.

Speaking during the partnership signing, Airtel Money Kenya Managing Director Anne Kinuthia-Otieno said the collaboration reflects Airtel Money's commitment to making financial services more accessible and convenient for customers across the country.

"By opening access to KCB's extensive agent network, we are bringing Airtel Money services closer to more Kenyans and making it easier for customers to deposit and withdraw money wherever they are. As Airtel Money continues to grow, partnerships such as this help us expand access to financial services while supporting the country's financial inclusion agenda," said Anne Kinuthia-Otieno.

KCB Bank Kenya Managing Director, Mrs. Annastacia Kimtai noted that the partnership reflects the Bank’s commitment to leveraging innovation and collaboration to create a more inclusive and interconnected financial services landscape.

“What we are doing is recognizing the fact that diverse and interconnected opportunities are still core to the mobile money value proposition. Reaching critical mass will require mobile money ecosystems to become more dynamic and productive and such a move will enable mobile money services to take root, proliferate, and scale up. It is against this background that we are offering our agency network for more Kenyans to strengthen mobile money ecosystems and help the industry mature fully,” Annastacia noted.

Customers will require a valid national identification document and a registered Airtel Money account to access the service. Deposits will be free, while standard withdrawal charges will apply.

KCB’s non-branch solutions, including its agency banking network, continued to play a pivotal role in driving customer convenience, accessibility, and operational efficiency. Notably, the deal comes as KCB continues to bolster its agency banking capabilities through the acquisition of Riverbank Solutions by bringing on board its robust social payments and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) solutions. As a result, the bank has deepened its digital channels offerings with 99% of transactions being conducted through non-branch channels.

ACORN PARTNERS WITH ABSA BANK KENYA PLC AND CO-OPERATIVE BANK GROUP TO EASE ACCESS TO AFFORDABLE STUDENT ACCOMMODATION AND START-UP CAPITAL

 Acorn Holdings Limited has partnered with Absa Bank Kenya Plc and Co-operative Bank Group to launch the Zinduka Graduate Enterprise Programme, an innovation designed to enable students to gain access to affordable accommodation through unsecured housing loans and start-up capital.  

The programme is expected to support between 5,000 and 10,000 new enterprises annually, with eligible graduates accessing business loans ranging from KES 200,000 to KES 500,000, empowering young entrepreneurs to start, grow, and sustain businesses while contributing to Kenya’s economic development and job creation.

The programme is aimed at addressing two key challenges facing university students, the first being access to quality and affordable accommodations. Kenya has approximately 500,000 students enrolled in universities, but fewer than 40,000 university-provided beds, leaving 460,000 students in informal, unregulated makeshift accommodation that is unsafe, poorly serviced, and more expensive than they appear.

The second challenge is access to enterprise funds upon graduation. Only an estimated 15 per cent of graduates secure formal employment, leaving the majority to create their own livelihoods, often without business skills, a financial track record, or access to startup capital. Zinduka addresses both problems through a single, connected programme.

“The formal job market is only able to absorb about one in ten graduates. This means the vast majority must create their own opportunities through entrepreneurship rather than rely on formal employment. 

Zinduka bridges a critical gap by connecting a student’s journey from securing their first home away from home to accessing the capital needed to launch their first business. It is a pioneering model that no housing company in Kenya, and arguably across the continent, has implemented before,” said Edward Kirathe, Chief Executive Officer, Acorn Holdings Limited.

Zinduka addresses these challenges through a two-stage process. The first stage is unsecured housing loans that give students access to affordable accommodation, while the second stage gives students start-up capital under the Zinduka Enterprise Programme

In the first stage, the student and parents are listed on the unsecured loan as co-borrowers, enabling the students to generate a credit record that banks can use to assess their creditworthiness. The loan’s monthly repayments start from KES 4,000.

A student who completes four years of on-time payments graduates not only with a degree but with a verified four-year credit history: a financial asset that most Kenyan graduates spend years attempting to build after the fact.

“Financial institutions find it difficult to lend to fresh graduates because they have no basis to assess their creditworthiness. Through Zinduka, students will be able to create a usable four-year credit record, making it easier to access funding for their businesses. The record will be backed by an Acorn-funded first-loss guarantee on their enterprise loan,” said Kirathe.

Speaking during the official launch of the Zinduka Graduate Enterprise Programme, Abdi Mohamed, MD and CEO, of ABSA Bank Kenya, said:

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to investing in the future of Kenya’s young people. Through the Absa Kenya Foundation, all Qwetu and Qejani students will have access to our ReadytoWork programme, equipping them with workplace readiness skills to prepare them for the world of work. We will also explore internship opportunities and support the establishment of a seed fund to help viable student-led businesses grow and thrive.

 Additionally, more than 5,000 students are expected to benefit from tailored financing solutions, making quality student accommodation more accessible and affordable.”

“Co-op Bank’s role has been to design and deliver a practical financing solution, anchored on a co-borrowing model where students and parents jointly access funding, making the opportunity both accessible and sustainable. With Kes 1 billion committed to this initiative, we are proud to play an instrumental role in bringing this vision to life and scaling its impact for young people across the country”, said Joel Kaba, Director Youth Financial Services at Co-op Bank.

 

During their study period, students under the Zinduka Graduate Enterprise Programme will attend quarterly entrepreneurship modules delivered at Qwetu and Qejani properties and submit a viable business plan, becoming eligible for an Acorn-guaranteed enterprise loan processed through banking partners.

THE ÀLKÉ SOLUTION

ÀLKÉ, The Architecture: Why Africa Must Build the Institutions That Protect Its Cultural Intelligence

By Lulu Shabell

For a long time, I have asked myself the wrong question. I have spent years placing African designers in Porto, Paris, Dubai, New York, and London for international buyers who arrived with their own frameworks of value, selected what resonated with them, and then departed. The work has been meaningful, and I do not regret any of it. But the question I keep returning to is not how to get more designers through those doors. It is why the doors are always theirs to open, and whether we should be building our own house entirely.

The core issue was never access. It was architecture. We have been trying to contain an expansive heritage within structures that were never designed to hold it. The honest answer, when it finally came, was to build our own.

That is what ÀLKÉ is.

Not a brand, not a fashion week, not an access programme with a finite horizon. ÀLKÉ is an institution, one designed to outlast all of us, grounded in a single clarifying truth: Africa has never been in the business of fashion. It has always been in the business of culture. The garment is simply one of the ways that culture travels. The bead, the woven cloth, and the pattern are vehicles, not destinations.

Once you understand that distinction, every question changes. The challenge is no longer how to integrate African designers into existing luxury markets. It is how to build institutions that protect, value, and amplify Africa's cultural intelligence for enduring economic benefit across generations.

What History Is Trying to Tell Us

On the southern coast of Africa, inside a sandstone cave overlooking the Indian Ocean, archaeologists at Blombos Cave discovered 41 perforated shells bearing microscopic traces of red ochre, evidence that they had been threaded, worn, and used to communicate identity.

They date back approximately 75,000 years.

The same site produced what is now recognised as the earliest known human drawing: a cross-hatched image rendered in ochre, predating comparable European evidence by more than 30,000 years.

The Kuba Kingdom, in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo, was home to master weavers who created geometric pattern systems of extraordinary sophistication, deploying symmetry in ways that encoded lineage, ceremony, cosmology and power.

The Kuba had been operating systems of authorship, design value, and cultural ownership for centuries before Europe's first major intellectual property framework, the Berne Convention, was signed in 1886.

The Educational and Economic Gaps

Research published through the Design Education Forum of Southern Africa has found that the history of costume taught in many fashion schools continues to focus primarily on Western frameworks, with little to no African design knowledge addressed.

Africa's fashion industry generated approximately $4.2 billion in fashion exports in 2022 and, despite its profound global influence, accounts for only a marginal share of the global luxury economy.

Africa's share of the global creative economy stood at approximately 1.5 percent in 2022, up from 1 percent in 2018.

With the right structural investment, Africa's creative economy could generate between $150 billion and $160 billion annually by 2030.

ÀLKÉ is designed to capture a specific share of that opportunity through three interlocking mechanisms: a craft centre, a venture studio, and an endowment.

The inaugural ÀLKÉ Ball will take place in Cape Town, launching the ÀLKÉ Endowment, the institutional foundation through which Africa's cultural declaration becomes a permanent economic fact.

Future editions will move across Lagos, Nairobi, Dakar, Addis Ababa, Accra, and Cairo, because this institution belongs to the continent, not to a city, a season, or a founder.

WHAT FATHERHOOD TEACHES US ABOUT SECURITY

By Jules Delahaije

When we think about fathers, we often think about the lessons they teach us. This June, as the world celebrates fathers, we are given an opportunity to celebrate the men who have shaped our lives through their guidance, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to their families.

Throughout generations, fathers have taken on the role of teachers, some of them teaching us how to ride a bicycle, overcoming obstacles, or how to navigate life's challenges. Others teach us through the quiet everyday decisions they made and roles played to keep loved ones safe. It is checking that the doors are locked before bed, teaching a child how to cross the road, planning for emergencies, and making sacrifices to provide stability and security for their loved ones. It is in these everyday actions that we begin to understand something deeper: fatherhood and security are closely connected. Both are rooted in a simple but powerful commitment, ensuring others can live, work, and thrive without fear.

At its core, fatherhood is about responsibility. It is about creating an environment where others feel safe, supported and empowered to thrive. In many ways, these same principles form the foundation of security.

Contrary to popular belief, security is not only about responding when something goes wrong. The most effective security often goes unnoticed. It is found in preparation, vigilance and prevention. It is the ability to identify risks before they become problems and to put measures in place that protect people from harm.

Fathers understand this instinctively.

A father teaches a child to look both ways before crossing the road not because danger is imminent, but because preparation matters. He ensures emergency contacts are available, encourages responsible behaviour and imparts values that help children make sound decisions long after they have left home. These actions may seem ordinary, yet they reflect a mindset centred on protection and preparedness.

The same approach applies to communities, workplaces and businesses. Safety is not achieved through reaction alone. It is built through consistent actions, careful planning and a commitment to looking ahead.

Across the world, thousands of men and women work every day to help create safer environments. Among them are security professionals who spend long hours safeguarding homes, businesses, schools, hospitals and public spaces. According to industry estimates, tens of thousands of private security personnel support safety and business continuity across the country, often serving as the first line of response during disruptions.

For these professionals, many of them fathers, the responsibility of protection does not begin or end with their work shifts. They understand what it means to care deeply about the wellbeing of others because they carry that responsibility both at home and in their profession.

Like many fathers, security professionals often make sacrifices that are rarely seen. They work nights, weekends and public holidays. They miss family celebrations and important milestones so that others can go about their daily lives with much needed peace of mind. Their contribution, much like that of many fathers, is often most visible when something goes wrong, yet their greatest achievements are the incidents that never happen because they remained alert, prepared and present.

This is where technology plays a supporting role, but never the leading one.

CCTV systems, access control systems, radios, and alarms extend vigilance, but they cannot replace human judgment. A camera does not interpret intent. A radio does not calm panic. A system does not decide between escalation and de-escalation. Behind every tool is a person whose values, training, and discipline determine the outcome. Fatherhood operates on the same principle. It is not the rules, routines or resources that shape a child most profoundly, but the judgment, character and example of the person behind them. Like security, effective fatherhood relies not only on systems, but on the people who bring them to life.

This is why security, at its best, is ultimately about people.

Fatherhood also reminds us that true protection extends beyond physical safety. It involves creating environments where people feel respected, supported and valued. Children flourish when they feel secure. Communities prosper when people trust those around them. Businesses grow when employees and customers feel safe.

Ultimately, fatherhood teaches a quieter but equally important lesson, leadership is not about visibility, but consistency. The most effective leaders are rarely the most visible. They show up. They build trust over time. They reduce fear not through words, but through dependable action. This is as true in a home as it is in a security operation.

As we celebrate Father’s Day, it is worth reflecting on these shared values. The importance of preparation. The discipline of responsibility. The power of calm communication and the quiet strength of consistency. This Father’s Day, take a moment to thank a father, a father figure, or a security professional who helps create stability in our daily lives

After all, both fatherhood and security share a common purpose: helping others live with confidence, knowing that someone is looking out for their wellbeing.

Jules Delahaije is SGA Security Group Chairman and CEO

AIRTEL KENYA RENEWS COMMITMENT TO KEEPING MUKURU’S VULNERABLE LEARNERS IN SCHOOL

Airtel Kenya, through the Airtel Africa Foundation, has renewed its scholarship partnership with Mukuru Promotion Centre, extending access to secondary education for vulnerable learners from Mukuru informal settlement.

 Under the renewed agreement, 22 students from St. Michael's Secondary School will receive full tuition sponsorship between 2026 and 2028, enabling them to complete their secondary education. Since the programme's inception in 2017, Airtel Kenya has supported over 190 students, many of whom would otherwise have faced significant challenges accessing and completing their education. The sponsorship programme has helped reduce the risk of school dropouts among vulnerable learners while creating pathways to further education and future opportunities.

Speaking during the partnership renewal ceremony, Airtel Kenya Managing Director Ashish Malhotra underscored the transformative role of education in creating sustainable social and economic change.

"Education remains one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives and unlocking opportunity. Through this partnership, we are investing in the potential of young people and giving them the support they need to stay in school, pursue their ambitions, and build brighter futures. We are proud to continue working with Mukuru Promotion Centre to ensure that more learners can access quality education regardless of their circumstances," said Airtel Kenya Managing Director Ashish Malhotra.

The renewal of the partnership comes at a time when many families continue to grapple with economic pressures that threaten children's access to education. Beyond school sponsorship, Airtel Kenya staff have also been supporting girls at St. Michael's Secondary School through menstrual health initiatives, including the provision of sanitary pads, helping ensure that learners can attend school with dignity and confidence.

In 2008, Mukuru Promotion Centre (MPC) opened St. Michael’s Secondary School to provide quality secondary education to children from disadvantaged backgrounds in Mukuru. St. Michael's Secondary School continues to play an important role in expanding access to education within one of Nairobi's largest informal settlements, with an estimated population of 700,000 residents.

The scholarship programme forms part of the Airtel Africa Foundation's broader commitment to advancing education and creating opportunities for underserved communities across Africa under its FEED sustainability strategy, which focuses on Financial Inclusion, Education, Environmental Sustainability, and Digital Inclusion.

OPALNET CELEBRATES 14 YEARS WITH ENHANCED INTREST-FREE FINANCING AND EXCLUSIVE OFFERS

Opalnet, the leading distributor of LG products in Kenya, has announced a series of customer-centric initiatives designed to make premium home appliances and electronics more accessible. This milestone coincides with the company’s 14th-anniversary celebrations.

To ease the financial burden on consumers, Opalnet has enhanced its in-house, interest-free payment plan allowing customers to secure any product with a 10% deposit, locking in the current price and protecting themselves against any future price hikes. The remaining balance can be paid in any combination of installments over a 90-day period.

Opalnet has also significantly upgraded its e-commerce platform, enabling nationwide shopping.

"Someone from any corner of Kenya can make a purchase, and the best part is that we deliver and install free of charge within 24 hours in Nairobi and its environs," said Sunny Sharma, the Head of Marketing at Opalnet. 

"We have a dedicated team supporting our digital infrastructure to ensure the entire online purchase experience is seamless."

As part of its month-long customer appreciation campaign, Opalnet is also offering exciting gift hampers to everyone who purchases a product at any of its eight outlets. Additionally, partnering with satellite TV provider MultiChoice, the company is giving a free one-month DStv streaming subscription to anyone who purchases an LG television set, ensuring fans don't miss a single moment of the ongoing football extravaganza.

Donghun Lee, Regional President of LG Electronics, congratulated Opalnet on its journey and reaffirmed the deep bond between the two brands.

"As LG, we are especially proud because we have had the privilege of being part of the Opalnet journey from the very beginning," Lee stated. 

"We have witnessed the company's growth firsthand, and it has been rewarding to see our partnership strengthen year after year. We look forward to continuing this successful collaboration in the years ahead."

The anniversary promotions, gift hampers, and flexible payment plans will run throughout the next month. Customers are encouraged to visit Opalnet outlets or shop online to take advantage of these limited-time offers while stocks last.

ADM Supports 184,000 Nutritious Meals for Students at Starehe Girls’ Centre

More than 200 girls at Starehe Girls’ Centre and School will receive three nutritious meals every day for an entire school year through a new initiative by ADM Cares, ADM’s corporate social investment program. 

The program will provide more than 184,000 meals, helping ease financial pressures on the institution while supporting student wellbeing and academic performance. ADM in Kenya operates a state-of-the-art laboratory focused on innovation in beverage and food applications, as well as animal nutrition. 

The company identified Starehe Girls’ for the support because it provides education and accommodation to some of Kenya’s most academically talented yet financially disadvantaged students. 70% of the school’s students are on 100 per cent sponsorship.

The initiative comes amid research consistently showing that access to balanced and nutritious school meals helps improve concentration, cognitive development and academic outcomes by reducing hunger-related distractions and providing essential nutrients.  Studies by the Center for Global Development have also linked regular nutritious meals to improved classroom participation and stronger performance in subjects such as mathematics and literacy. 

“At ADM, we believe that access to good nutrition is fundamental to learning and growth. Supporting Starehe Girls Centre means investing in the future of these young women and the broader community,” said Herbert Pohle, VP Middle East and Africa – Animal Nutrition at ADM. “We’re proud to help ensure that every student can focus on her studies without worrying about her next meal.”

Sr. Jane Soita, Director, Starehe Girls Centre and School, said the support would have a lasting impact on the students. 

“We are grateful to ADM for their generous support. This contribution will enable us to provide nutritious meals for our students throughout the year, ensuring they are well nourished and able to focus on their schoolwork. It is truly humbling to receive this kind of support, and we remain thankful to ADM for empowering our girls,” said Sr. Jane Soita, Director, Starehe Girls Secondary School.

Beyond the meal program, ADM will also facilitate job-shadowing opportunities for students to expose them to potential career paths, alongside a fishpond restoration project led by the company’s animal nutrition experts. 

These initiatives are expected to provide students with practical, hands-on learning opportunities while revitalizing an important resource within the school

KENYAN PROMINENT LAWYER VOWS LEGAL BATTLE OVER ARRESTED DEMONSTRATORS

Following the second anniversary of Gen z lead protest which saw over a hundred and twenty seven young souls lost during the 2024 finance bill protest and last year first anniversary of the protest victims,the capital of Nairobi was sealed off to prevent demonstrationd which turn violent due to infiltration by goons.

Speaking at Nairobi central police station,Embakasi East law maker and a prominent lawyer Babu Owino vowed to mount a legal battle against the government to release protesters who were arrested following the second anniversary.

According to Kenyan interior minister Kipchumba Murkomen said over three hundred and fifty five protesters were arrested across the country and will face difrent charges from attempting to steal, obstruction, loitering and robbery with violence charges.

THE FAMILY GROUP FOUNDATION KICKS OFF NATIONWIDE PARENT ENGAGEMENT FORUMS TO STRENGTHEN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT WELL-BEING

 The Family Group Foundation has commenced parent engagement forums across the country aimed at strengthening collaboration between families, schools and the Foundation in supporting the more than 970 high school learners currently enrolled under its Tufuzu na Elimu High School Programme.

The initiative comes at a time when concerns around student discipline, mental health and school safety have sparked renewed national conversation, highlighting the need for stronger partnerships between parents, educators and communities in nurturing well-rounded learners.

As part of the outreach, the Foundation will engage more than 600 parents and guardians across 16 counties this month, creating platforms for dialogue, awareness and shared responsibility in supporting learners' academic, social and emotional well-being.

"Supporting a child's education goes beyond paying school fees or providing learning materials. Young people today face social, emotional and behavioral challenges that require parents, schools and communities to work together. These forums are designed to strengthen that partnership and ensure every learner has the support system they need to succeed," said The Family Group Foundation Executive Director, John Waimiri during a parents' meeting in Nakuru.

"Parents remain central to the success of every beneficiary. By bringing parents, schools and the Foundation together, we are championing a co-parenting approach that positions parents as active partners in the educational journey of their children, building a stronger support system around each learner and creating an environment where students can thrive academically, socially and emotionally," he said.

Through the forums, the Foundation is creating a platform for dialogue, awareness and shared responsibility, enabling parents and guardians to engage on issues affecting students, including emotional well-being, peer influence, academic performance, personal development and positive behaviour.

OVER 400,000 KENYAN CHILDREN TRAPPED IN DOMESTIC LABOUR

An estimated 400,000 children across Kenya are currently trapped in domestic labor, facing systemic abuse and a complete denial of their basic rights to education and a normal childhood.

The figure emerges as child protection advocates raise the alarm over the widespread social acceptance of a practice that has quietly become Kenya's second-largest form of child labor, surpassed only by agriculture.

Because the work takes place entirely behind the closed doors of private households, it remains one of the country's most hidden and least scrutinized forms of exploitation. Data from 2015 placed the number of child domestic workers at 350,000, but conservative projections show the crisis has by now surged past the 400,000 mark.

To confront this invisible crisis, a new national awareness campaign titled Not Invisible Anymore has been launched to coincide with the Day of the African Child, also International Domestic Workers' Day. The information drive is led by a partnership involving the Freedom Fund, an organisation dedicated to ending modern day slavery and human trafficking, through its Not Invisible Anymore (NIA) program, in partnership with 12 local organisations.

The centrepiece of the campaign is a week-long public monument installation designed to disrupt everyday routines and provoke reflection among commuters, employers and caregivers. Over the course of the week, the monument will be installed at several high-traffic transport hubs across Nairobi, including National Archives (June 16), Koja (June 17), Afya Center (June 18) and Country Bus (June 19).

The awareness drive comes at a time when economic pressures continue to push more children into domestic work. Rising living costs, climate-related shocks, food insecurity and uneven post-pandemic recovery have left many vulnerable households struggling to cope. In many cases, children enter domestic labour following family crises such as illness, bereavement or parental separation.

Reports from grassroots child protection partners reveal that some children enter domestic service as young as seven years old. Many work from early morning until late at night, remaining effectively on call 24/7 with highly restricted physical mobility and zero contact with peers. Furthermore, these children receive little to no financial compensation while facing widespread exposure to physical, emotional and psychological mistreatment, alongside highly under-reported instances of sexual exploitation.

Advocates warn that the true scale of the problem is heavily masked by language, as the exploitation is frequently downplayed by employers and guardians as mere "helping" or an informal family arrangement.

"Child domestic work is one of the most pervasive yet overlooked forms of child exploitation in Kenya," said Ruth Kimani, the Head of Programs, Africa, at the Freedom Fund. "Because it happens in homes rather than workplaces, it often escapes public scrutiny, legal enforcement and even recognition. The result is that thousands of children are denied their right to education, protection and a normal childhood."

Meanwhile, important policy gains have been recorded in some parts of the country over the past year following earlier awareness drives. In Busia, for example, child domestic work has been formally recognised within the child protection framework, a significant development given the county's status as a known source area for child domestic workers. While implementation structures are still being established and measurable outcomes will take time to emerge, stakeholders say the policy strengthens accountability and coordination around child protection.

At the national level, Kenya's ratification process for International Labour Organisation Conventions 189 and 190 has advanced beyond the Ministry of Labour and is currently under executive consideration. The conventions seek to strengthen protections for domestic workers and address violence and harassment in the world of work. Their progression marks an important step towards stronger labour safeguards and greater recognition of domestic work within Kenya's policy framework.

Advocates stress that ending child domestic work requires action beyond government, including stronger oversight, better-resourced labour inspectors and consistent integration of child domestic work into national protection systems.

"The message is simply to stop child domestic work. Every child deserves safety, education and opportunity. What happens behind closed doors matters, and ending child domestic work is a responsibility shared by families, employers, communities and institutions," said Brian Mulama, Nairobi County CECM for Talents, Skills Development and Care, at the monument unveil.

Members of the public who suspect a child is experiencing exploitation or abuse are encouraged to call 116, the national toll-free helpline number for children facing abuse and exploitation.

KENYA RANKS 6TH IN AFRICA'S DIGITAL RIGHTS AND INCLUSION INDEX

Kenya has been ranked sixth in the latest report on the state of digital rights and inclusion across the continent. The Digital Rights and Inclusion in Africa Report-Londa is the most comprehensive continental assessment, covering 29 countries across Central, East, North, South, and West Africa. 

In the latest report, the country has jumped three places, up from 9th place in 2024.

In the 2025 report, South Africa has retained its top position as Africa’s leading digital rights-respecting country for the second time in a row. It is followed by Ghana, Namibia, Senegal, Egypt, Zambia, Kenya, Rwanda, Malawi and Nigeria in that order. 

The research draws on desk-based legal and policy analysis, secondary data review, key informant interviews with regulators and sector stakeholders, and media monitoring to assess trends, developments, and emerging challenges.

Kenya and Rwanda are the only countries featured among the top ten in East Africa. The country’s score is 37 out of 60, which is a three-point improvement on last year’s performance, placing it as moderately compliant with international digital rights standards, well below South Africa’s benchmark score of 47 out of 60. 

According to the report, “Kenya’s media landscape is among the most vibrant on the continent, though journalists face harassment and intimidation, and press-freedom restricting laws remain on the books.”

Rwanda scored 36 out of 60, retaining its 2024 score. The country performed well in infrastructure and e-government, but continued to record low scores in freedom of expression and in arbitrary arrests. Kenya marginally outperforms Rwanda overall, more so in judicial independence and emerging technology strategy.

The Londa 2025 report calls on the Kenyan government to halt internet throttling and disruptions during protests, repeal overbroad provisions of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Amendment Act 2024, ensure the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner has adequate enforcement resources, build a comprehensive Artificial Intelligence (AI) regulatory framework, and close the urban-rural digital inclusion gap.

It further urges the government to establish harmonised rules on cross-border data transfers, data localisation and cloud contracts to ensure that Kenyan public data and sensitive information are protected under the Kenyan law. Additionally, it calls on the government to expand affordable connectivity by prioritising infrastructure in rural, informal and marginalised communities.

The report is compiled by Paradigm Initiative, a leading pan-African organisation advocating for digital rights and inclusion. Kenya and 28 other African countries were evaluated using the Score Index, a 12-point indicator that ranks countries by performance. Key indicators include access to information, freedom of expression, privacy protections, and digital inclusion, among others. The index highlights areas for improvement and persistent structural challenges across the region. 

The most improved countries in the ranking are Botswana and Egypt, which moved up by more than nine places. This was in stark contrast to countries like Nigeria and Cameroon, which dropped by five and ten places, respectively. On the other hand, Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sudan all dropped in rank, placing them among the bottom five in the list. 

The report provides a comprehensive, data-driven assessment of internet freedoms, policy environments, and emerging digital rights risks across the continent. It provides an annual benchmark of progress and setbacks in digital rights protection, drawing on extensive country-level research and stakeholder engagement.

Londa is named after a Zulu word meaning “to protect or defend” and serves as a call to action for safeguarding digital rights on the continent.

AIRTEL MONEY KENYA AND CHILDFUND PARTNER TO EXPAND ACCESS TO INCLUSIVE EDUCATION FOR OVER 2,000 LEARNERS

Over 2000 learners across Baringo, Wajir, and Garissa counties are set to benefit from an inclusive education programme between Airtel Money Kenya and ChildFund.

The initiative will focus on improving access to quality education for children with visual and hearing impairments by creating more inclusive and supportive school environments. The investment will be directed towards addressing critical gaps in learning infrastructure, water and sanitation services, and access to digital learning resources that continue to affect educational outcomes in these underserved communities.

The beneficiary schools include Marigat Integrated Day and Boarding Primary School and Marigat Special School for the Visually Impaired in Baringo County, Garissa School for the Deaf in Garissa County, and Catholic Integrated Primary and Junior School in Wajir County. Together, the four institutions serve more than 2,000 learners, including children with visual and hearing impairments who often face additional barriers to accessing quality education.

By creating safer, healthier, and more inclusive learning spaces, the project aims to boost student wellbeing, increase school attendance, and widen access to quality education for children in some of Kenya's most marginalised communities.

Speaking during the partnership signing, Airtel Money Kenya Managing Director Anne Kinuthia-Otieno underscored the importance of removing barriers to quality education.

"Education is a powerful force for transforming lives, yet many children still face obstacles such as inadequate facilities, poor sanitation, and limited digital access. Through our partnership with ChildFund Kenya, we are investing in practical and sustainable solutions to create more inclusive learning environments, especially for children with disabilities. Our mission is to ensure every child can access quality education and reach their full potential," said Airtel Money Kenya Managing Director Anne Kinuthia-Otieno.

Through this partnership, we will construct new classrooms, improve sanitation facilities, handwashing stations, enhance water infrastructure, and establish ICT centres equipped with digital learning devices. Special interventions for learners with disabilities will include enhanced dormitories, accessible sanitation, and expanded water access to foster dignified and supportive learning conditions.

“In Kenya, inequality is often layered. Even within underserved communities, children living with disabilities frequently face additional barriers to accessing quality education and miss on opportunities to reach their full potential. For the learners who will benefit from this initiative, these improvements will help create safer, healthier, and more inclusive schools where every child with disabilities will learn, participate and succeed. Together, we are choosing to see those who have too often remained unseen and to invest where the need is greatest. We believe that no child's future should be limited by where they live, the circumstances they are born into, or the challenges they face. We are grateful for this shared commitment to ensuring that all children are seen. This partnership is bigger than infrastructure. It’s an intentional investment in the dignity and future of children with disabilities," said ChildFund Kenya Country Director Sankara Gitau.

The project will also improve access to clean water by installing pipeline extensions, solar-powered pumps, water storage facilities, and school hygiene infrastructure, creating healthier learning environments for learners and teachers alike.

KENYA SEEKS MODERN TECHNOLOGY TO ACCELERATE INDUSTRIAL GROWTH

Kenya is positioning itself to benefit from modern industrial technologies and international partnerships through the upcoming Africa International Construction Machinery Expo Conference (AICMEC 2026), scheduled to take place at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) from June 17 to 19.

Speaking during a media briefing in Nairobi, Chairman of the Kenya-China (Asia) Trade and Investment Promotion Initiative, Richard N. Ndung’u, said access to advanced machinery and technology is essential for enhancing productivity and competitiveness across key sectors of the economy.

Ndung’u noted that the exhibition will bring together manufacturers, investors, technology providers and industry players from Africa and beyond to showcase innovations in construction, mining, agriculture, transport and manufacturing.

He said the event will provide a platform for local businesses to explore new technologies, establish partnerships and identify investments

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Stakeholders from Kenya’s trade and investment sector brief the media on opportunities in industrialization, technology transfer and international trade ahead of AICMEC 2026 at KICC, Nairobi.

AIRTEL EXPANDS NAIROBI PRESENCE WITH FOUR NEW CUSTOMER TOUCHPOINTS AMID RISING DEMAND FOR DIGITAL SERVICES

 As demand for mobile connectivity, digital services and mobile financial solutions continues to grow, Airtel Kenya has expanded its customer access network across Nairobi with four new customer touchpoints.

The new locations, comprising customer care shops at Development House in Nairobi's Central Business District (CBD), Freedom Heights in Lang'ata, Magunas Superstores - Utawala, and at Garden City Mall, are intended to improve service accessibility across some of Nairobi's fastest-growing residential and commercial corridors.

The expansion forms part of Airtel Kenya's broader strategy to double its customer service footprint across the country before the end of the year in a bid to bring services closer to customers while enhancing convenience, reducing service turnaround times and strengthening in-person customer support.

Customers visiting the new locations will be able to access a wide range of services including SIM registration and replacement, Airtel Money support, customer onboarding, device support, and Airtel's voice and data solutions for both individual and business customers.

Speaking on the expansion, Airtel Kenya Managing Director Ashish Malhotra said the investment reflects the company's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of customers as digital adoption continues to accelerate across the country.

"As Nairobi continues to grow and evolve, so do the needs of our customers. We are seeing increasing demand for reliable connectivity, digital services and mobile financial solutions. These new customer touchpoints are designed to make it easier for customers to access Airtel products, services and support wherever they are, while reinforcing our commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience," said Malhotra.

The new locations strengthen Airtel's presence across key growth areas in the capital. The Lang'ata outlet marks Airtel's first customer care shop in the area, while the Development House location becomes the company's third customer touchpoint within Nairobi's Central Business District. The Utawala shop-in-shop extends service access to customers along the rapidly growing Eastern Bypass corridor, while the Garden City kiosk enhances accessibility for customers along the busy Thika Road commercial corridor.

The latest expansion comes as telecommunications providers continue to invest in customer-facing infrastructure to support Kenya's growing digital economy and deepen access to connectivity and financial services.

LG Bets on the Living Room as East Africa’s Stadium Ahead of International Football Month

After the end of the popular European football season, attention now shifts to the international football games of June – July, 2026.

Ahead of the competition, LG Electronics (LG) East Africa is encouraging fans to bring the stadium experience home. The company has launched its football discounts campaign across the region, offering reductions of up to 45% on selected televisions and audio products through its network of LG Brandshops.

The 65-inch LG OLED B5 AI TV, which comes with a free soundbar, for instance, is now available at KSh249,995, a massive KSh120,000 discount from its typical price of KSh369,995. This is as the 65-inch LG QNED 70 AI TV sells at a discounted KSh99,995, down 35% from KSh154,995.

The campaign was officially launched with a high energy roadshow at the Opalnet Shop in Kitengela, Kenya, in partnership with Opalnet, LG’s principal distribution partner in Kenya.

Speaking at the launch, Donghun Lee, President of LG Electronics East Africa, recognized the expected changing viewing habits expected during the tournament, as an opportunity for Kenyan fans to upgrade their entertainment systems.

“Football is about the moments shared with family and friends. This year’s games present a unique situation where many matches will be played late at night, yet fans still want to support their favourite teams without compromising their comfort. Our goal is to make it easier for fans to enjoy the world’s biggest sporting event from their homes and with the best systems available,” he said.

The campaign positions LG’s latest OLED AI and QNED AI televisions, alongside its premium audio solutions like soundbars, as the ideal setup for immersive home viewing. These products are designed to deliver vibrant picture quality, enhanced brightness, wide viewing angles, ultra-high-definition resolution and advanced sound processing that recreates the atmosphere of a live stadium.

Rakesh Singh, Managing Director of Opalnet, said the campaign is aimed at helping fans enjoy a memorable football experience.

“East African football fans are passionate and deeply invested in international football. They deserve a viewing experience that matches the scale and excitement of the tournament. We are proud to partner with LG to ensure that they can enjoy every moment in immersive quality without leaving their living rooms,” he said.

The campaign reflects a broader shift towards home-based sports viewing, driven by growing smart TV adoption, improved streaming infrastructure and increased household investment in home entertainment technologies.

Available data shows a clear shift toward smart TVs with advanced features such as 4K resolution and connectivity, as consumers prioritize better viewing experiences[i]. There is also a growing preference for larger screen sizes and premium formats, driven by improving affordability and lifestyle changes. This aligns with market observations of increasing uptake of big-inch TVs (65” and above) across East Africa.

TV penetration is also rising, with Kenya reaching a 48% household penetration, leaving significant room for upgrades and new purchases.

BRAIN HEALTH RESEARCH CRITICAL FOR AFRICA’S CHILDREN AS NEW CONSORTIUM BUILDS AFRICAN SCIENTIFIC CAPACITY

 Africa faces a significant burden of child developmental delays and disabilities, with an estimated 29 million children in Eastern and Southern Africa affected, according to global estimates. At the same time, the region continues to experience a critical shortage of locally generated brain health evidence and trained neuroscientists to guide context-specific solutions solutions for its rapidly growing population.

Experts highlighted the need to strengthen brain health research capacity in Africa as they gathered at the Aga Khan University’s Institute for Human Development (IHD) 10th anniversary celebrations, held in Nairobi. The call came during discussions under the theme “Unlocking Human Potential for Optimal Development Across the Lifespan: A Decade of Evidence, Innovation, and Policy Impact,” with stakeholders advocating for increased investment in research, innovation, and evidence-based policy solutions to improve health and development outcomes among children.

"Every child deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive. Yet for many children, circumstances beyond their control prevent them from reaching their full potential. Investments in research allow us to identify effective interventions, understand local realities, and generate the evidence needed to improve child health and development outcomes," said Prof. Amina Abubakar, Director, Aga Khan University Institute for Human Development.

According to the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS) 2022, 18 percent of children under five are stunted, while only 31 percent of children aged 6–23 months receive a minimum acceptable diet and 37 percent meet minimum dietary diversity. Poor nutrition during early childhood is a key risk factor for brain development, particularly in the first eight years of life when rapid brain growth occurs, and is associated with poorer cognitive and learning outcomes later in life.

Speaking during the conference, the Guest of Honour, Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak, Principal Secretary for Science, Research and Innovation in Kenya’s State Department for Science, Research and Innovation, underscored the importance of investing in science and research, particularly in child development and brain health, to drive sustainable development.

"When we invest in research, we invest in better decisions. Evidence helps us understand what challenges our communities are facing, and which solutions are most likely to improve lives. For governments, this knowledge is essential for designing policies and programmes that respond to people's needs and create opportunities for future generations," said Prof. Abdulrazak.

At the centre of this call is the Africa Leadership for Measuring Brain Health in Children and Adolescents (ALMA) consortium, an African-led initiative working to strengthen neuroscience research capacity and train the next generation of scientists in child and adolescent brain health.

Launched in 2023, ALMA is currently training more than 50 early-career researchers across four African countries; Kenya, Malawi, South Africa, and Zambia; to conduct high quality, locally relevant research on brain development and mental health in children and adolescents.

The programme is implemented through a network of leading African and global research institutions, including the Aga Khan University’s Institute for Human Development in Kenya, the University of Cape Town in South Africa, the University of Zambia, and Kamuzu University of Health Sciences in Malawi, with additional collaboration from the University of Oxford and Massachusetts General Hospital.

In Kenya, ALMA research is already contributing to emerging evidence on child and adolescent mental health, including the development of a Mental Health Literacy Toolkit for adolescents, designed to improve awareness of mental health conditions, reduce stigma, and strengthen supportive learning environments in schools.

“The challenges facing human development today requires the participation of everyone, researchers, practitioners, policy makers and communities. The conference provides a platform to strengthen our understanding and contribute to creating equitable evidence-based impact for all,” said Dr. Tania Bubela, Provost and Vice President, Academic, Aga Khan University.

The initiative builds on growing evidence from Kenya, including findings from early childhood development research and implementation programmes in Nairobi County, which highlight persistent gaps in school readiness, unequal developmental outcomes between informal and formal settlements, and limited access to nurturing care such as early stimulation and responsive caregiving.

These findings align with broader national efforts to strengthen early childhood development systems and reinforce the need for locally generated evidence to guide policy and practice. Kenya’s Social and Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) Strategy for Early Childhood Development (2023–2026) highlights ongoing gaps in nurturing care practices and service delivery, and calls for strengthened investment in caregiver support, health systems, and early learning environments.

VOICES IN MOTION SET TO INSPIRE A NEW GENERATION OF AFRICAN CREATORS

Rolling Stone Africa (RSA) and ON Kenya recently launched Voices in Motion, a groundbreaking storytelling platform designed to nurture and elevate the next generation of African creators who will shape how the continent’s sporting stories are documented, shared and celebrated.  

The initiative seeks to bridge the gap between Africa’s world-class athletic achievements and the stories behind them by creating opportunities for emerging photographers, filmmakers, writers, videographers and digital creators to develop their craft and tell authentic African narratives. 

Built around the belief that every athlete’s journey deserves to be seen and understood, Voices in Motion will culminate in a first-of-its-kind Creative Summit in July 29th to 2nd August, bringing together athletes, journalists, storytellers, industry leaders and aspiring creators for learning, collaboration and mentorship. 

Despite producing some of the world’s most celebrated athletes, Africa's sporting stories are often told through external lenses, leaving many of the personal sacrifices, triumphs and cultural contexts behind these achievements untold. Voices in Motion seeks to change that by investing directly in the people who tell these stories. 

“Across Africa, we have extraordinary athletes whose achievements inspire millions, yet many of their journeys remain unseen,” said Navalayo Osembo from ON Kenya. “Through Voices in Motion, we are creating pathways for young creators to develop the skills, networks and opportunities needed to tell these stories authentically and powerfully. We believe that the future of sports storytelling in Africa should be shaped by Africans themselves.” 

The platform will provide aspiring storytellers with access to industry professionals, mentorship opportunities, practical training, and collaborative experiences designed to strengthen Africa’s creative ecosystem. 

Speaking during the launch, Gwen Madiba- Editor in Chief, Rolling Stone Africa noted that storytelling has become one of the most powerful tools for shaping culture, preserving history and inspiring future generations. 

“Every record broken, every sacrifice made and every triumph achieved deserves to be documented by storytellers who understand the communities and cultures from which these stories emerge. Voices in Motion is about ensuring that Africa not only produces world-class athletes but also world-class storytellers capable of sharing these journeys with the world.” 

The launch event brought together leading creators, media personalities, athletes, journalists, and cultural influencers in a symbolic celebration of storytelling.  

Following the launch, applications will open for aspiring creatives from across Kenya to participate in the Voices in Motion program. Successful applicants will gain access to mentorship opportunities, industry exposure, and participation in the Creative Summit. 

Mansa-X Special Fund Maintains Dominance, Commanding 73.5% of the Special CIS Market Share per CMA Report

 

 

Kenya’s largest Special Collective Investment Scheme (CIS) Mansa-X Special Fund, powered by Standard Investment Bank, has maintained its dominance growing its market share to 73.5% in the three months ending March 2026. The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) Collective Investment Schemes Quarterly Report for Q1 2026 showed that Mansa-X Special Fund saw a 22% increase in Assets Under Management from KES 125Bn in December 2025 to KES 153 Billion by the end of March 2026.

 

The Mansa-X Special Fund - KES closed the quarter with a 64.9% market share with its AUM hitting KES 132.2 Billion while Mansa-X Special Fund - USD placed second with KES 17Bn in AUM, representing 8.6% of the market share.

 

Standard Investment Bank Executive Director for Global Markets Nahashon Mungai attributed the growth to increased interest rates as well as the investors' appetite for diversification. “Mansa-X is a highly diversified fund with the ability to trade over 200 asset classes across global markets enabling 24-hour trading and maximizing the earning potential. This is what investors are looking for in a highly unpredictable environment.”

 

On the other hand, Mansa-X Shariah Special Fund - KES grew 30.4% from KES 2.3Bn to close at KES 3 Billion, while the Mansa-X Shariah Special Fund - USD saw a 44.6% increase from KES 365Mn to KES 528Mn by the close of Q1 2026.

 

SIB Executive Director for Islamic Investment Banking Abdullahi Adan said that the uptake shows the appetite for ethical investment options in the Kenyan market which the Shariah Funds offer. “Over the past decade, Shariah-compliant products have emerged as both an alternative and a complement to conventional finance, widening participation for individuals and institutions seeking faith-aligned investment opportunities.”

 

The CMA Report showed that in the period ended March 31, 2026, the total assets under management by the Collective Investment Schemes (CIS) amounted to KES 851.7Bn, a 13% increase from KES 756.3Bn reported in the period ended December 31, 2025 (Q4 2025).

Standard Investment Bank also increased its overall CIS market share from 16.6% in December 2025 to 18% in March 2026, further narrowing the gap between SIB and the current market leader.

 

AIRTEL AFRICA FOUNDATION INVESTS $6.2 MILLION TO EXPAND EDUCATION, DIGITAL ACCESS, AND INCLUSION ACROSS AFRICA

 Airtel Africa Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Airtel Africa plc, has reported an investment of $6.2 million across financial inclusion, education, environmental sustainability, and digital inclusion initiatives across Africa during its first full year of operations and its impact on millions of learners and communities across Africa, with education receiving the largest share of investment.

Key achievements include connecting 1,028 schools to the internet through its partnership with UNICEF, bringing the total to 3,296 schools connected across 13 countries, reaching over 2 million learners and nearly 39,000 teachers. In addition, 64 zero-rated digital platforms enabled over 11 million learners to access free educational content.

The Foundation also improved the condition of public schools, with 7 fully renovated and 43 undergoing upgrades under the School Adoption Programme, which integrates infrastructure improvements with digital access and holistic student development. Through the Airtel Africa Tech Fellowship, 257 full university scholarships were awarded in Malawi, Nigeria, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda, expanding access to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education and building a pipeline of high-potential African technology leaders. In addition to this, 30,530 youth and women were trained through digital skills initiatives delivered with national, multilateral, and private-sector partners.

Segun Ogunsanya, Chair, Airtel Africa Foundation, said: “The Airtel Africa Foundation was established to help dismantle barriers caused by unequal access to opportunity. While talent and ambition are abundant, access to education, digital tools, and economic participation remains uneven. Through partnerships and our continental reach, we are committed to investing in communities furthest from opportunity.”

The report also underscores the Foundation’s growing focus on measurable outcomes and long-term systems change.

The Foundation aims to scale proven interventions in the year ahead, including expanding its School Adoption Programme to over 80 schools, increasing scholarships to more than 600 youth, providing free internet connectivity to an additional 2000 schools, and extending digital skills and financial inclusion initiatives to underserved communities.

"As a Foundation, we are positioned to deliver skills development and lasting change at the individual and household level, while partnering with governments to unlock Africa's economic transformation”, Mr Ogunsanya added.