Local detectives are on high alert after an increase in the gold smuggling syndicate from war torn Democratic Republic of Congo through Kenya to several destinations in Middle East, Asia and parts of Europe.
DCI sleuths have discovered a consignement of 100kg of gold smuggled through the country from Goma in Eastern DRC to Dubai last week Two German nationals known as Marc Schuman (35) and Tobias Steinherr (42) are believed to be behind the latest racket, where they used fake documents to evade the detection by the sleuths. The consignment finally reached the end buyer in Dubai, a Pakistani businessman in Dubai who is a frequent visitor to Kenya with connection to influential government officials. The due also have a close relationship with the Congo rebels they support in procurement of military materials and medicine It is believed that the current instability in Eastern DRC that has witnessed the death of more than 1,000 soldiers and civilians has fueled the smuggling syndicate. The ongoing conflict, particularly around Goma and Bukavu creates a chaotic environment that smugglers exploit with the help of the rebels to move gold and other valuable, Many armed groups in the region, including the M23, are heavily involved in the illegal mining and smuggling of gold to finance their operations. They often control mining sites and establish smuggling routes, using force and intimidation to maintain their control.
In a bold endorsement of financial sector reform, digital lender Jijenge Credit Limited has thrown its weight behind calls for a standardized base lending rate, a move spearheaded by commercial banks to streamline interest rate determination. The firm argues that adopting a unified rate will inject much-needed predictability into the lending ecosystem, fostering stability for both borrowers and financial institutions.
Peter Macharia, CEO of Jijenge Credit, stressed the urgency of adopting a scientific and objective loan pricing model that aligns with global banking best practices. He highlighted that such a framework would optimize financial resource allocation, ensuring that borrowers are better served while reinforcing the nation’s economic resilience.
“It is imperative to construct a scientific and objective loan pricing model to keep pace with the competitive rhythm of commercial banks in mature economies. This will ensure financial resources are allocated efficiently while protecting market stability,” Macharia remarked during an industry forum on Tuesday.
He further elaborated on the mechanics of loan pricing, noting that banks employ a base rate as a benchmark, to which they add a margin—commonly referred to as the spread—to determine the final interest rate for borrowers. However, under the current risk-based pricing framework, interest rates vary widely, leading to market inefficiencies and inconsistencies.
Commercial banks are currently engaging the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) in discussions to overhaul loan pricing models and establish a unified base lending rate. This follows concerns that banks have not been adjusting interest rates in tandem with reductions in the Central Bank Rate (CBR), a discrepancy that has raised alarms across the financial sector.
Macharia concurred with the sentiment that the existing risk-based pricing model lacks the adaptability required for market fluctuations. He attributed the high cost of loans to this rigid pricing mechanism, warning that it has led to a surge in business closures and increased asset repossessions.
“One of the major challenges facing Kenya’s economy today is the prohibitive cost of credit, which has rendered many businesses unsustainable. This explains the rising number of foreclosures and vehicle repossessions due to borrowers struggling to meet their financial obligations,” Macharia noted.
The Central Bank of Kenya has been actively working on a new loan pricing framework and is poised to present it for public consultation. CBK Governor Kamau Thugge revealed that a formal proposal will be unveiled within a fortnight, incorporating international best practices tailored to Kenya’s unique economic landscape.
“I hope within the next two weeks we will have a concrete proposal. We are studying global models and adapting them to suit our domestic financial ecosystem,” Dr. Thugge stated during a recent parliamentary committee hearing.
Banks have long lobbied for a transition from risk-based pricing to a common reference rate, contending that the existing model creates undue complexity and inconsistencies within the industry. Ideally, a base rate serves as the foundation upon which banks calculate interest rates for loans, mortgages, and other credit products. A hike in the base rate typically translates to higher borrowing costs, whereas a reduction should theoretically lead to lower interest rates.
This ongoing reform push comes in the wake of several commercial banks slashing lending rates following CBK’s decision to cut both the benchmark Central Bank Rate (CBR) to 10.75 percent and the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) to 3.25 percent. The apex bank has implemented a cumulative 225-basis-point reduction in the CBR since August last year, marking a strategic shift towards a more accommodative monetary policy stance.
In February, CBK mandated that banks align their lending rates with the revised monetary policy framework, warning of regulatory action against non-compliant institutions.
As the financial sector braces for transformative policy shifts, the call for a standardized base lending rate is gaining traction. Industry players, including Jijenge Credit, view this move as an essential step towards fostering a more predictable and sustainable credit market—one that balances the interests of borrowers and lenders while bolstering economic growth.
Nairobi, Kenya – 28.03.2025 – Leading retailer Naivas, in collaboration with the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), is proud to announce the launch of the “Retail Ready – Partnering for Growth” workshop. The event, set to take place at Prestige Plaza, will showcase 60 KAM-registered Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) from key sectors such as Household & Personal Care, Food & Beverage, and Agribusiness. This strategic workshop is designed to provide local SMEs with a vital platform to present their innovative products, engage with industry experts, and explore new growth opportunities. With a focus on fostering innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, the initiative seeks to equip these businesses with the tools and resources needed to thrive in today’s competitive retail landscape. Naivas’ continued commitment to supporting local suppliers underscores the significance of the partnership, highlighting the vital role that SMEs play in the company’s growth and the broader Kenyan economy. The retail giant’s involvement in the workshop is part of its ongoing efforts to empower local businesses, drive job creation, and promote sustainable economic development in Kenya. “The ‘Retail Ready – Partnering for Growth’ exhibition reflects our commitment to not only offering quality products to our customers but also supporting the growth of local suppliers,” said Andreas Von Paleske , Chief of Strategy at Naivas.
“We believe in the transformative power of partnerships, and by providing this platform, we aim to help SMEs navigate the retail landscape and unlock new opportunities for expansion.” In addition to product displays, the workshop will feature networking sessions, enabling SMEs to connect with industry professionals, potential partners, and investors. This collaborative environment is intended to foster business growth, encourage knowledge exchange, and strengthen partnerships within Kenya’s SME sector. The workshop will also offer insights on sustainability practices, retail strategies, and the evolving consumer market. Attendees will have the chance to engage in workshops and discussions, providing them with valuable industry insights to further enhance their business strategies. “We are excited to be part of this initiative that will empower SMEs to scale their operations and become more competitive in the marketplace,” said Joyce Njogu, Head of consulting and sustainability at KAM. “The exhibition not only serves as a showcase for innovation but also as a catalyst for business growth, job creation, and sustainable development.”
The Kenya School of Government (KSG), through its Regional Centre of Competence for Digital and AI Skilling, has partnered with the University of Nairobi’s Africa Center for the Study of the United States of America to host a one-day seminar celebrating six decades of U.S.-Kenya collaboration in digitization and technology. What began as an early cooperation has evolved into a strong alliance, combining American technological expertise with Kenyan innovation to drive economic transformation and foster digital growth.
The seminar brought together leading voices from government, business, academia, and civil society to discuss the impact and future of this partnership. Among the distinguished speakers were Prof. Bitange Ndemo, Kenya’s Ambassador to Belgium; James Potts, Economic Counselor at the U.S. Embassy in Kenya; Prof. X. N. Iraki, an Economic Analyst from the University of Nairobi’s Faculty of Business and Management Sciences; and Magdalene Chepkemoi, Founder and CEO of EldoHub. Their insights highlighted the significant strides made in digital technology and artificial intelligence, as well as the opportunities that lie ahead for Kenya’s growing tech ecosystem.
Welcoming the delegates, Vera Obonyo, Deputy Director of the e-Learning and Development Institute (eLDi), acknowledged the long-standing collaboration between KSG, the University of Nairobi, and the U.S. She emphasized how this partnership has played a crucial role in developing training programs for both national and county governments, strengthening Kenya’s digital capacity at multiple levels.
As Kenya continues to position itself as a hub for technological advancement, the seminar underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between Kenya and the U.S. in leveraging digital innovation for economic and social development.
Senator Veronica Maina and Kiharu MP Ndindi Nyoro spent their Friday mentoring students at Kahuhia Girls High School, urging them to embrace education, discipline, and strong values as they work toward their dreams. The two leaders were the chief guests at the school’s prize-giving ceremony and fundraiser, where they motivated the students and emphasized the importance of hard work, integrity, and visionary thinking.
As an alumna of Kahuhia Girls, Senator Maina expressed her deep appreciation for the institution, describing it as a pillar of excellence that has nurtured many successful individuals. She urged the students to stay focused on their studies, embrace discipline, and develop resilience in the face of challenges.
“Kahuhia Girls is a great institution that has mentored and produced exceptional individuals in various fields. I am a proud alumna of this school, and I can confidently say that the discipline and education I received here played a huge role in shaping my journey to leadership,” she said.
Senator Maina also pledged her continued support for the school’s development projects, commending the teachers, administration, and parents for their dedication to providing quality education. She further encouraged the students to take advantage of mentorship opportunities, scholarships, and extracurricular activities that could shape their future careers.
MP Ndindi Nyoro echoed the senator’s sentiments, stressing the importance of virtues such as honesty, trustworthiness, and integrity in shaping a successful future. Taking to the podium, he urged the students to develop strong communication skills and cultivate a clear vision for their lives.
“Start behaving like the doctor, professor, or lawyer you want to become. Write your vision in indelible ink,” he advised, encouraging the students to embody their future ambitions in their daily lives.
He emphasized that success is built on self-discipline, determination, and unwavering focus, reminding the students that dreams must be accompanied by action.
The event also served as a fundraiser for various school projects, aimed at improving infrastructure and enhancing the learning experience for the students. The presence of the two leaders was met with excitement and appreciation from the school community, with many expressing gratitude for their inspirational messages and commitment to education.
Kahuhia Girls High School remains a center of excellence, and with the support of leaders like Senator Maina and MP Nyoro, it continues to nurture and empower the next generation of trailblazers.
The Ministry of Health has issued a renewed and urgent call for comprehensive reforms in maternal healthcare, with a focus on eliminating preventable maternal deaths across all 47 counties. Speaking at the Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS) Religious Caucus Meeting, Dr. Edward Serem, Head of the Reproductive and Maternal Health Division, underscored the critical need to safeguard the health and well-being of women, particularly during childbirth.
“The health of a woman has to be taken care of in all 47 counties. We have developed an Acceleration Plan for the Reduction of Maternal Deaths, a strategy that prioritizes urgent, evidence-based interventions to ensure that no woman dies while giving life,” stated Dr. Serem.
The Acceleration Plan, developed by the Ministry of Health, is a meticulously structured framework designed to address the systemic challenges that have long plagued Kenya’s maternal healthcare sector. It prioritizes key interventions such as enhancing access to skilled birth attendants, strengthening emergency obstetric care, expanding comprehensive reproductive health services, improving maternal health infrastructure, and encouraging community engagement and education to break cultural barriers that hinder women from seeking proper medical care during pregnancy and childbirth.
The Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS), a leading professional body in reproductive health, plays a pivotal role in advocating for improved maternal care. Its partnership with the government has been instrumental in shaping policies that promote safe motherhood. Additionally, the involvement of faith-based organizations in this initiative is crucial. Religious leaders wield significant influence in communities and can help drive behavioral change, particularly in regions where cultural and traditional beliefs hinder women from seeking modern healthcare services. By integrating medical expertise with religious advocacy, the government aims to ensure a holistic approach to maternal health reforms.
Kenya continues to grapple with high maternal mortality rates, with statistics indicating that approximately 342 women per 100,000 live births die due to pregnancy-related complications (according to the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey). The leading causes include excessive bleeding, infections, high blood pressure, and unsafe abortions—many of which can be prevented through timely medical intervention.
While significant progress has been made in recent years, challenges such as inadequate healthcare facilities, limited access to skilled healthcare providers, and socio-economic barriers continue to pose risks to expectant mothers. Rural and marginalized communities, in particular, face the greatest burden due to poor healthcare infrastructure and deep-seated cultural norms that discourage hospital deliveries.
Dr. Serem’s remarks reinforce the urgency of sustained investment, policy reinforcement, and multi-sectoral collaboration in addressing these issues. As the Ministry of Health rolls out its Acceleration Plan, the expectation is that Kenya will take significant strides toward reducing maternal mortality and ensuring that every woman, regardless of her socio-economic status or geographic location, has access to quality reproductive healthcare.
Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs, Ms. Roseline Njogu, hosted Ms. Mercy Kamanja, a Scotland-based Kenyan diaspora, at the State Department for Diaspora Affairs during a special DiasporaTime session.
The discussions focused on key issues affecting Kenyans abroad, including proposed electoral reforms, the newly launched Kenya Diaspora Policy 2024, and various government initiatives aimed at supporting and empowering the diaspora community.
Ms. Kamanja shared insights on investment opportunities across multiple sectors, highlighting the significant role the diaspora can play in driving economic growth and development in Kenya. She encouraged more Kenyans abroad to explore ways of contributing to the country’s progress through investment and knowledge transfer.
PS Njogu praised the Kenyan diaspora for their unwavering commitment to promoting Kenya’s global image. She recognized their role as brand ambassadors who not only enhance the country’s reputation internationally but also attract foreign investors keen on exploring opportunities in Kenya.
“The State Department is fully committed to supporting diaspora-led investment missions in Kenya. We recognize the immense potential and impact of our people abroad in driving economic growth and fostering international partnerships,” said PS Njogu.
The meeting was also attended by Mr. David Mugane and Mr. John Muinde, officials from the Foreign Service Office, underscoring the government’s commitment to strengthening ties with Kenyans abroad.
With the rollout of the Kenya Diaspora Policy 2024, the government aims to create a more structured approach to engaging and empowering the diaspora, ensuring that their contributions continue to shape Kenya’s economic and social landscape.
The Nairobi Hospital has once again solidified its position as a beacon of medical excellence by hosting the Magical Kenya Medical Tourism Forum, a high-profile convention aimed at redefining Kenya’s role in the global medical tourism industry. The prestigious event, held at the hospital’s state-of-the-art Amphitheatre, brought together healthcare leaders, tourism strategists, and policymakers to chart a new course for Kenya’s growing reputation as a world-class healthcare destination.
As the medical tourism sector surges towards a projected KSh 5.2 trillion ($40 billion) valuation by 2025, The Nairobi Hospital is positioning itself at the forefront of this transformative industry. Boasting cutting-edge facilities, internationally trained specialists, and an unwavering commitment to medical excellence, the hospital is laying the foundation for Kenya to rival the world’s leading medical tourism hotspots.
Speaking at the forum, Mr. Samuel Odede, OGW, Director of Medical Services & Research at The Nairobi Hospital, underscored the institution’s pivotal role in attracting international patients and enhancing Kenya’s healthcare standards. “The Nairobi Hospital is more than a healthcare provider; it is a symbol of excellence, innovation, and trust. Our commitment to world-class medical care places Kenya in a prime position to compete on the global medical tourism stage. By fostering collaboration between healthcare and tourism stakeholders, we can unlock unprecedented opportunities for both our economy and our healthcare sector,” he asserted.
The forum, organized in collaboration with Magical Kenya and the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), featured thought-provoking discussions on enhancing Kenya’s visibility as a medical tourism hub, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and forging strategic partnerships to drive sustained growth. A panel discussion led by Mr. Muthuri Kinyamu, CEO of Accessible Travel, brought together industry leaders who deliberated on actionable steps to refine Kenya’s medical tourism strategy.
Key takeaways from the discussions emphasized the urgent need for aggressive global marketing, enhanced quality assurance in medical services, and the integration of Kenya’s healthcare and tourism sectors to create a seamless experience for international patients.
As the event concluded, The Nairobi Hospital reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to medical innovation, excellence, and accessibility, reinforcing its status as a pillar of Kenya’s healthcare industry and a driving force behind the nation’s medical tourism aspirations. With a clear roadmap and industry-wide collaboration, the hospital is set to propel Kenya into the ranks of the world’s most sought-after medical destinations.
This afternoon, MSEA CEO Henry Rithaa and the management team hosted a delegation from the Tony Elumelu Foundation, led by Director of Operations Hakeem Onasanya.
The meeting introduced both organizations’ efforts in supporting entrepreneurs to scale their businesses. The Tony Elumelu Foundation has been empowering African entrepreneurs since 2015.
In Kenya, they plan to launch a program offering training, mentorship, economic empowerment, and $5,000 in funding, focusing on agribusiness, creative industries, health, education, the green economy, and ICT.
MSEA highlighted its partnerships, including KYEOP for startup grants, ILO for capacity building, and collaborations with Stanbic and UNDP in digital literacy. Upcoming initiatives such as NYOTA and KJET were also discussed.
The meeting explored potential collaboration areas, including policy solutions to improve the ease of doing business, also access to grants & strategic partnerships to strengthen entrepreneurial support.
A caucus of youthful leaders expresses profound gratitude to His Excellency President William Samoei Ruto and the Right Honorable Prime Minister, Raila Amollo Odinga, for the well-deserved appointment of Fikirini Katoi Kahindi Jacobs as the Principal Secretary, State Department for Youth Affairs.
This appointment marks a pivotal moment for youth representation in leadership. It signals a new era where young people are no longer spectators but active participants in governance, ensuring that policies and programs reflect the aspirations of Kenya’s youthful population.
Fikirini Jacobs embodies the true Kenyan dream. Born and raised in Bamba, Ganze Constituency, Kilifi County, he has risen through sheer determination, navigating the challenges faced by many young people. His journey, from humble beginnings to earning degrees from two of Kenya’s leading universities, is a testament to resilience, ambition, and the power of opportunity. His appointment proves that youthful leadership is not just a possibility but a necessity in building a prosperous nation.
For decades, young people have remained on the periphery of governance, with their voices often overlooked in key decision-making processes. This appointment is a breakthrough, not just for Fikirini Jacobs but for millions of young Kenyans who have long sought representation in the corridors of power. This is only the beginning, and more young, capable leaders will soon take up similar roles in government. There is nothing for the youth without the youth.
As Fikirini Jacobs assumes this critical role, he is called upon to be a champion for youth empowerment. His leadership will be judged by his ability to create opportunities, drive policies that uplift young people, and ensure that youth affairs take center stage in national development. The expectations are high, but confidence in his ability to rise to the occasion remains unwavering.
All young people, irrespective of political affiliations, are urged to rally behind this appointment. This is not just a win for Kilifi County; it is a win for every young Kenyan who dreams of a better, more inclusive future. Moving beyond political and ethnic lines is essential to support one of our own as he embarks on this transformative journey.
Comrade Fikirini Jacobs is celebrated as the youngest Principal Secretary in modern Kenya. His passion for youth affairs, understanding of the struggles young people face, and unwavering commitment to change inspire confidence that he will make a significant impact in a docket that has long been neglected.
Hongera tena, ndugu Fikirini! Serve with integrity, boldness, and a vision that uplifts the youth of Kenya. May your tenure be marked by progress, empowerment, and lasting transformation.
