Author: staff reporter

𝐓𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐅𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝟐𝟎𝐭𝐡, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓.
𝐁𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫, 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬.

The Committee on Housing, Urban Planning and Public Works held sessions with the State Departments for Housing & Urban Development and Public Works to consider the 2025/26 Budget Policy Statement (BPS) in preparation for the next financial year’s Budget.

Chaired by Hon. Johanna Ng’eno, the Committee was briefed on the Budget Implementation status of the financial year 2025/26. Key policies underpinning the expenditure ceilings and indicative performance targets linked to the policies and programs in the 2025 BPS, among others.

The Committee noted that the State Department for Housing and Urban Development (SDHUD) had utilized Kshs. 21,110.07 million out of the approved budget of Kshs. 85,195.80 million as of 31st December 2024 representing an absorption rate of 25%.

The committee members demanded explanation as to the slow uptake of funds in the 1st half of the year, which sought to be apprised on why markets stall, utilization of Boma Yangu proceeds and utilization of accrued interests of the Affordable Housing monies invested in Treasury Bills.

Speaking before the Committee Members, the Permanent Secretary for SDHUD, Mr. Charles Hinga attributed the slow absorption rate to delays in the disbursement of funds by the Affordable Housing Board caused by lengthy onboarding of Board onto Government payment system being a new state corporation. The Board came into being in March 2024.

The PS explained that the onboarding process was lengthy and involved the National Treasury and the Central Bank of Kenya. As a result, The Board only accessed funds in October, more than 3 months into the new financial year.

The PS assured the committee that the absorption in the last half of the year shall be much faster given the many contracts for construction of affordable housing in virtually every part of the country.

The PS informed the committee that there were 124k units under construction with another 121k awarded and under negation.

20th February 2025: MANSA, a global fintech innovator in cross-border payments, has announced the successful close of its $10 million funding round. This marks a significant milestone for the company in its mission to alleviate liquidity challenges for payment companies worldwide. MANSA’s stablecoin-based solution offers payment providers in emerging and mature markets a flexible and reliable way to manage liquidity challenges in cross-border payments.

MANSA has raised $3 million in a pre-seed funding round led by Tether and co-led by Polymorphic Capital with participation from other prominent investors, including Octerra Capital, Faculty Group, and Trive Digital. The fintech company has secured an additional $7 million in liquidity funding from institutions, including corporate investors, quantitative funds, and alternative investment firms. The funds will support MANSA’s further market expansion into Latin America and Southeast Asia, alongside the rollout of bespoke liquidity and ancillary solutions tailored to address complex cross-border payments needs.

Co-founded by Mouloukou Sanoh and Nkiru Uwaje, MANSA has deep expertise across traditional finance, payments, and Web3. The team shares a passion for innovation and is committed to transforming how money moves globally and building next-generation market infrastructure for payments and financial services.

“Securing $10 million in pre-seed and liquidity funding marks a significant milestone in our mission to transform the way money moves. By bringing payments on-chain and leveraging efficient liquidity solutions, we are addressing critical challenges in cross-border transactions—making payments faster, cheaper, and more reliable worldwide” said Mouloukou Sanoh, CEO and Co-Founder of MANSA. “This funding accelerates our global expansion, enabling us to empower payment companies with seamless, real-time settlement infrastructure and drive the future of payments”

Since its launch in August 2024, MANSA has gained traction by building partnerships with major payment companies across Africa, Asia, and South America. These strategic alliances have contributed to the proliferation of its instant liquidity solutions, resulting in $27 million in transaction volume to date, with nearly $11 million in on-chain transaction volume in January – reflecting a 574% growth from August 2024. MANSA leverages stablecoins, thereby reducing settlement delays and transaction costs, and giving payment providers the resources to scale their operations efficiently.

“MANSA’s vision for addressing liquidity challenges in cross-border payments aligns with our mission to create a more efficient and inclusive financial system. By leveraging USDT for real-time settlements and instant payouts, MANSA is solving critical pain points for payment companies operating in emerging markets. We are proud to collaborate with MANSA and support their efforts to reshape global payment infrastructure.” said Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether.

Strategic Expansion Plans
The newly secured funds will be instrumental in MANSA’s strategic expansion into Latin America and Southeast Asia – regions where liquidity challenges hinder cross-border transactions. MANSA intends to expand its reach and influence by enabling faster, more affordable payment solutions through scaling its liquidity infrastructure and developing strategic partnerships.

MANSA’s commitment to financial inclusion and innovation is consistent with its objective to transform cross-border payments. The company’s solutions are intended to address global liquidity shortages and provide a faster, more accessible way for businesses and individuals to transact across borders.

Cross-border payments are at the heart of global commerce, yet many payment providers face significant liquidity shortages. These liquidity gaps can lead to delayed settlements and increased operational costs, particularly in emerging markets, where reliable and scalable solutions are scarce. Globally, the remittance already costs an average of 6.5% of the amount sent, disproportionately impacting developing regions. And with the total value of cross-border payments projected to hit $290.2 trillion annually by 2030, inefficiencies in the current system could cost businesses billions.

By John Kariuki

Many young people tend to overlook the importance of retirement planning, often believing it is something to think about later in life. However, financial experts agree that the earlier you start, the better. The power of compound interest makes a strong case for beginning your savings journey as soon as possible. When you start setting aside money in your 20s, you don’t just earn interest on your initial savings—you also earn interest on the interest accumulated over time. This continuous cycle of growth allows your money to work for you, ensuring financial security in your later years.

Delaying retirement savings can have significant consequences. Waiting until your 40s or 50s to start saving means missing out on decades of potential growth. A person who begins saving even a modest amount in their 20s is likely to end up with significantly more wealth than someone who starts saving a larger amount much later in life. The secret lies in time—your greatest asset when it comes to financial planning.

SasaPay is making it easier for people to take control of their financial future by offering a simple, affordable, and accessible savings solution. Whether you are employed, self-employed, or running a business, you can secure your future by developing a saving habit today. Every coin counts, and with the right plan in place, financial freedom in retirement is within reach.

By John Kariuki

In a significant show of commitment to enhancing school feeding programs, Hon. Eng. Kiragu, Member of Parliament for Limuru, hosted Hon. Benard Kitur, Member of Parliament for Nandi Hills, at Kamandura Comprehensive School. The visit focused on the logistics and operations of the Limuru Tap to Eat feeding program, whose Mega Kitchen has been instrumental in ensuring that no child in Limuru learns on an empty stomach.

Hon. Kitur had the opportunity to witness firsthand how the program prepares and distributes meals to various schools before lunchtime. This initiative, which serves over 15,000 pupils, ensures that students receive nutritious hot meals at an affordable cost—15 shillings per day, 75 shillings per week, 300 shillings per month, and 2,700 shillings per term. Additionally, the program supports 10% of the student population in each school by providing meals for free, ensuring inclusivity and support for vulnerable children.

During his visit, Hon. Kitur also actively participated in serving lunch to the pupils of Kamandura Comprehensive School. Sharing a meal with the children, he experienced the profound impact the feeding program has on their well-being, concentration, and overall academic performance.

The Limuru Tap to Eat Mega Kitchen has been recognized as the best among the 25 kitchens where similar feeding programs have been established. Its efficiency, affordability, and sustainability make it a model for other constituencies looking to implement structured feeding programs in schools.

Hon. Eng. Kiragu reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that no child in Limuru has to study on an empty stomach. He also extended an open invitation to leaders from across the country to learn from Limuru’s success, with the goal of replicating the initiative in other regions.

With programs like these, the future of Kenyan children remains brighter, healthier, and more promising.

By John Kariuki

The Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS) has taken a strong stance on the ongoing debate surrounding the scope of practice in reproductive healthcare, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to professional medical standards. Speaking at the 49th Annual Scientific Congress at Sarova Whitesands in Mombasa, KOGS President Dr. Kireki Omanwa made it clear that Cesarean sections and hysterectomies are beyond the scope of Clinical Officers and should only be performed by appropriately trained and qualified medical professionals.

Dr. Omanwa urged the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards to ensure that Clinical Officers operate strictly within the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) recognized scopes of practice. He cautioned that allowing unqualified practitioners to conduct specialized medical procedures poses a significant risk to patient safety and the overall quality of healthcare in the country.

In his address, Dr. Omanwa also called on the Ministry of Health (MOH) to take decisive action in safeguarding women’s healthcare, particularly in reproductive health. He emphasized that ensuring the highest standards of care for Kenyan women is a national priority and that any deviations from established medical guidelines could have dire consequences.

The KOGS Annual Scientific Congress has convened leading gynecologists, obstetricians, and healthcare policymakers to discuss critical issues affecting women’s health. With maternal and reproductive healthcare at the forefront of Kenya’s health agenda, the need for clear professional boundaries has become a key focus of discussion. Dr. Omanwa stressed that the medical profession must uphold ethical standards and ensure that only those with the requisite training perform specialized procedures.

As the congress continues, KOGS has announced that it will issue a comprehensive statement tomorrow regarding the Scope of Practice in Reproductive Healthcare. This statement is expected to provide further guidance on professional responsibilities, ethical medical practice, and policy recommendations to strengthen Kenya’s healthcare system.

The KOGS Congress 2025 remains a vital platform for advancing reproductive healthcare standards in Kenya, ensuring that patient safety, medical ethics, and professionalism remain at the core of healthcare delivery.

By John Kariuki

Principal Secretary Harsama Kello has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to professionalism, integrity, and teamwork in public service as he presided over the induction of new officers.

Addressing the newly recruited civil servants, PS Harsama underscored the importance of upholding ethical standards and ensuring transparent, accountable service delivery. He emphasized that public servants must always act in the best interest of citizens, maintaining high levels of professionalism and integrity in their duties.

In his address, the PS also called for unity among officers, stating that “the only tribe in civil service is Kenya.” He urged the inductees to embrace national cohesion and work together to foster an inclusive and effective public service that prioritizes the needs of the people.

With a focus on teamwork and collaboration, PS Harsama encouraged the new officers to build a culture of excellence, where efficiency and accountability define their service to the nation.

The induction marks a crucial step in preparing the new officers for their roles, equipping them with the values and principles necessary for effective governance and service delivery.

In a bold move to strengthen its foothold in Kenya, Asian merchant China Square has inaugurated its latest branch, a sprawling 75,000 square-foot store at Nairobi’s prestigious Two Rivers Mall. This marks the company’s latest step in an aggressive expansion strategy across the country.

Since its first entry into the Kenyan market in 2022 with an outlet at Unicity Mall in Kenyatta University, China Square has attracted attention for its low-priced, high-quality products. Despite initial resistance from some local traders and politicians in early 2023, who raised concerns about its pricing strategy, the retailer’s appeal to Kenyan shoppers has proven irresistible. The store quickly became a go-to destination for a wide variety of affordable products, including household appliances, electronics, furniture, hardware, stationery, and much more.

Riding on the success of its Unicity Mall store, China Square has now expanded to six more locations nationwide, with outlets in Karen Waterfront Mall, Lang’ata Uchumi Hyper, Mombasa Nyali Bazaar, and Kisumu Mega City Mall. The latest branches opened in January 2025 include the Two Rivers Mall location and a branch at Greenspan Mall in Donholm.

At Two Rivers Mall, China Square joins a prestigious lineup of retailers, including the French multinational Carrefour. With its spacious layout and ample parking, Two Rivers is a prime spot for the growing retailer. China Square’s expansion has also boosted the mall’s occupancy rate to an impressive 95 percent, according to Centum Investments CEO James Mworia.

With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, China Square continues to provide Kenyans with an exceptional shopping experience, while promising further expansion beyond Nairobi in the near future.

𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟏𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐅𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐲, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓
𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫

Chepalungu MP, Hon. Victor Koech has sought a statement from the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security regarding delays and inconsistencies in the operationalization and gazettement of various administrative units.

“Honourable Speaker, I rise to seek clarification over inconsistencies in the alignment of administrative and political boundaries. These delays continue to disadvantage residents of Chepalungu Constituency in critical areas such as access to services, recruitment opportunities, and security.” read Hon. Koech.

Hon. Koech argues that inconsistencies and misalignment in the administrative boundaries has created significant disadvantages, especially in recruitment exercises such as for teachers and for the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF). He asserts that some residents are often excluded due to geographic and logistical challenges.

“It is against this background that I request the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security to provide the status of operationalization of the administrative units and provide a detailed report on the delays.” stated the Chepalungu MP.

Hon. Koech also sought to know the measures that the government had taken to ensure administrative boundaries in the affected areas are aligned to the provisions of the National Government Co-ordination Act of 2013.

The National Government Co-ordination Act, 2013 provides for the gazettement of new administrative units aimed at improving access to government services and security.

Gilgil MP, Hon Martha Wangari in agreeing with Hon Koech’s concern also sought to be enjoined in the request for a statement stating,

“I want to laud Hon Koech for bringing up this issue. So many units have been gazetted all over the country over the years but nothing is being done. The Committee while looking into this matter should also do a general overview of the whole country and all the constituencies affected.”

Taita Taveta County MP, Hon Haika Mizhigi noted, “delay in the formation of these administrative units has caused a lot of inconveniences and inequity across the country. This matter needs to be looked at with the urgency and importance that is required.”

The Deputy Speaker, Hon. Gladys Boss Shollei directed the Committee on Administration and Internal Security to consider the matter and provide a response that includes the status of operationalization of administrative units across the country.

𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫
𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐅𝐞𝐛 𝟏𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

Members of the National Assembly have commenced debate on the Gold Processing Bill (National Assembly Bill No. 17 of 2023) which seeks to establish a legal and institutional framework for gold processing in Kenya.

The Bill proposes the creation of the Gold Processing Corporation. The Bill also seeks to establish a legal and institutional framework for collecting, purifying, smelting, fabricating, homogenizing, sampling, registering, monitoring and transporting of gold or products of gold.

Sponsor of the Bill, Hon. Bernard Shinali noted that proper regulation of the gold sector could significantly contribute to the economy. “Gold processing has boosted exports and revenue in other countries including Sudan. A comprehensive legal framework will enable the country to accumulate good reserves and encourage foreign exchange,” he said.

The Bill which is at the second reading stage also seeks to ensure environmental management and safety standards in gold mining and processing. “We need regulations to govern exploration, extraction, and processing of gold. This Bill provides a comprehensive framework that takes into account modern extraction methods and safety,” added Hon. Shinali.

Hon. Fred Ikana highlighted the economic potential of gold mining, particularly in regions rich in gold deposits such as Ikolomani Constituency, Shinyalu Constiuency, Turkana and Migori Counties.

“Kenya is a resource-rich country. This Bill will establish a framework that allows communities and the nation at large to benefit from their natural resources,” Hon. Ikana stated.

Hon. Ikana also pointed out the importance of safety in the mining sector, noting that the Gold Processing Bill would protect miners from exploitation and ensure the gold’s value remains within the country. “If enacted, this Bill will guarantee the safety of our miners and ensure they are not exploited. It will also promote value addition through local processing, generating foreign exchange,” he said.

The Chairperson of the Committee on Environment, Hon. David Gikaria about Kenya exporting gold in raw form, depriving the country of potential revenue. “Currently, our gold is exported without any value addition, meaning we don’t fully benefit. This Bill will help artisanal miners and ensure processing is done locally,” he remarked.

Migori County MP, Hon. Fatuma Mohamed, who represents a gold-mining region, voiced strong support for the Bill, citing challenges faced by small-scale miners. “The licensing process is prohibitive. It used to cost Ksh 20,000, but was increased to Ksh 500,000. Many small-scale miners come from areas without electricity or internet, making it difficult to apply for a license. It can take up to four years to acquire one. This Bill is necessary to protect small-scale miners,” she said.

Lawmakers noted that the Gold Processing Bill also seeks to combat illegal mining and the black-market trade in gold, which has led to revenue losses for the country.

If passed,it will regulate gold collection, purification, smelting, and value addition, with the aim of boosting revenue, formalizing small-scale mining, and curbing illegal trade.

Additionally, the establishment of gold processing plants is expected to create jobs and improve the livelihoods of mining communities.

Debate on the Good Processing Bill, 2023 is expected to continue next week.

𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫
𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐅𝐞𝐛 𝟏𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

Isiolo County MP, Hon. Mumina Bonaya, has raised concerns over the transparency and accountability in the management of the Sports, Arts, and Social Development Fund (SASDF), calling for a forensic audit of the fund’s expenditures.

Speaking in the National Assembly, Hon. Bonaya sought a statement from the Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Sports and Culture, questioning the use of public funds meant for sports development.

“There has been public outcry over the mismanagement of funds in the sports sector. Despite huge allocations, our national teams struggle with inadequate playing fields, poor-quality gear, and unprofessional event organization,” said Hon. Mumina Godana.

“A forensic audit to be undertaken by the Office of the Auditor General on the Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund for the last two financial years, including an audit of all companies contracted to supply goods and services, and be submitted to the Departmental Committee for consideration,” she added.

Hon. Godana demanded clarity on the criteria used by the Kenya Academy of Sports and the Sports, Arts and Social Development Fund in identifying and assessing the needs of sports development in Kenya, and the measures in place to ensure equitable distribution of funds across all regions.

“We need to know why the quality of preparations, the playing fields, the sports gear, and the entire organisation of sports events do not reflect the budget allocated for their procurement, despite the seemingly large amounts of financial resources directed toward these purchases,” she asked.

The Isiolo legislator further demanded a detailed report on all companies awarded tenders to supply playing kits and equipment.

The Chairperson of the Departmental Committee on Sports and Culture, Hon. Dana Wanyama is expected to respond with a comprehensive statement in the three weeks.