Smart Times

Development bank of Kenya chairman, Ndungu Githinji (L) , Chief Executive Officer and Managing director Johnson Kiniti (R) and Mombasa County Executive committee member for Finance and economics Evans Owanda (C) during DBK Mombasa branch opening  NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 29... The strategic move aligns with the bank's strategy to enhance their customers base and further solidify the banks presence in the ever growing Kenyan banking sector Mombasa county government executive committee member for finance and economics Mr Evans Owanda , Mr Ndungu Githinji who serves as Chairman Development bank of Kenya as well as bank's top management personnel are among Officials who graced the opening ceremony  "The opening of this branch in Mombasa county marks another significant stride in our strategic expansion across the country with our unwavering commitment to serve our customers and fulfilling their diverse needs"  said mr Ndungu Githinji chairman Development Bank of Ken

NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 28... Kenya's national carrier, Kenya airways (KQ) has introduced two daily flights to London from 29th October 2023 "The airlines customers can now choose between a morning flight through KQ 100 and an evening flight through KQ 102 allowing more travel options, convenience and flexibility" reads a statement  Kenya airways has been operating its flights to London since its inception as a gateway to United Kingdom (UK) for business travel, leasure travel , trade and education  In addition KQ will deploy the Boeng dreamliner B787 on the route bringing the total flights per week to 14 up from 10 flights  "The additional weekly flights will cater to increase market demand for the route and growing passenger demand" the statement reads further

Principal secretary, State department of Interior and security Raymond omollo NAIROBI, Kenya Sep28... The plan encompasses an array of transformative interventions designed to elevate every section of the society with citizens and communities at the lowest level of the social ladder  "We have set about cementing the position of National government Administrative officers  (NGOs) as the driving force behind these strategic interventions and save an environment where every single mwananchi will not only thrive but also contribute meaningful to our collective prosperity" read a statement  In addition the government has conducted a re-orientation programme for the officers with the intend to infuse a lead by example mindset across the structure and ensure  effective, efficient and responsive services at all levels  "To kickstart the process we have launched a training for thirty trainers of trainers (TOTs) who will be taken through organisation and functions of g

NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 25... Family bank has set aside 50 billion on program dubbed 'queen Banking' kitty for the next two years to cater for diverse individual and business needs of women to promote women's economic empowernment and deepen financial inclusion in the country The product is exclusive to businesses with at least 51 percent of shares controlled by women or 100 percent owned by women , businesses where women constitute of 30 percent of the board or more than 25 percent of senior management  " We are of the partnership we have fostered with family bank since 2015 and today's launch of their new women banking proposition is supported by our capacity development initiative under the affirmative finance action for women in Africa (AFAWA) program" African Guarantee fund Group CEO Jules Ngankam said Subsequently women can access up to KES 7 million secured and unsecured loans through Biashara boast , unsecured lending of up to 2.5 million , unse

         During the launch of Electric vehicles           comprehensive insurance cover  NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 23... As electric vehicles gain momentum in the country's automotive landscape , GA insurance Kenya has launched first ever comprehensive insurance cover tailored exclusively for electric vehicles (EVs) in Kenya  The growing adoption in the country has seen steady rise with remarkable 108 percent increase in Electric vehicle sales during 2022-2023 financial year  Battery cover, charging cable cover, cover for private charging station,  Out of charge recovery benefit, Autonomous driving cover, cyber attack coverage In-car entertainment unit and satellite Navigation systems cover are key features and benefits of GA ECO drive insurance cover  Mr.Sandip Bhadury , GA insurance Kenya limited CEO while speaking during the launch said that GA Eco drive cover is specialized insurance policy specifically targeted to cover unique risks faced by the e-mobility segment and bus

KBL Head of sales Nairobi, Joseph kagigite, CEO Ponty Pridd Holdings Anthony Wainaina,  PS Gender and affirmative action Veronica Nduva and HR Director ponty pridd holdings Stella Mputhia during the launch  NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 22... She delivers is an internship program aimed at bridging the gender gap in the industry as the program is set to train 80 women anually with 6 month internship program for 20 interns per cycle as they navigate their careers in the dynamic world of transport and logistics  CEO Ponty Pridd Holdings Anthony wainaina said that there is need to diversity for driving innovation and progress in the transport and logistics sector "She delivers, our women in transport and logistics program is a testament to our commitment to empowering women an we are excited to see the positive impact it will have on the industry" said Wainaina "Logistics industry has traditionally been regarded as 'no place for women' with women been under- represe

Cabinet Secretary for East African community Arid and semi-arid lands and regional development Rebecca Miano speaking during the conference  NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 22... The one day conference hosted by USAID Kuza and partners themed "why Northern Kenya, why now? brought together public, private and development sector actors addressing the growing need to close the funding gap which hinders enterprise development in Northern Kenya  Over $14 million has been disbursed to over 9000 small and micro enterprises in the region through the impact of Northern Kenya Fund targeting various sectors including Agriculture, Livestock, energy, Climate and tourism Under the USAID Kuza project has seen creation of over 16, 500 jobs in the arid and semi arid counties of Garissa, Isiolo , lamu , Mandera, Marsabit , Samburu, Tana River,  Turkana, Wajir and West pokot  Cabinet secreatary for East African community Arid and Semi-arid lands regional development , Rebbeca miano while addresing th

A photo of Allan Mwenda senior sales agent Aspira,  Irshadd muttur Aspira COO and Chrys Rhys Head of marketing Hotpoint NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 21... The new plan will see making high end products acessible to kenyans as shoppers can conviniently acquire home appliances and electronics on credit following a collaboration between Aspira and Hotpoint  Aspira's flexible payment plans range from 1 month to 6 month have been received by kenyan shoppers subsequently addition of 24-month plan allows consumers to spread the cost of their purchases over a more extended period alligning with the lifespan of many durable appliances  "Our vision is to make quality appliances and a comfortable lifestyle affordable and manageble for people in Kenya " said Mr.Irshad muttur, COO of Aspira  The Kenya buy now pay later 2023 report shows that BNPL payments industry in the country has recorded strong growth over the last 2 years due to increased  e-commerce penetration "Customers

US president Joe Biden with UN secretary General Antonio Guterres at the Summit  NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 20... World leaders agree to urgently step up there efforts to deliver  the sustainable developement goals (SDG) as global roadmap out of crisis by 2030 Leaders adopted a decisive, action oriented  political declaration at the summit highlighting their collective commitment to build a sustainable, inclusive and prosperous world by 2030 with a strong focus on the means of implementation and in particular on financing on development  "I am deeply encouraged by the detailed and wide ranging draft political declaration under consideration here today especially its commitment to improving developing countries acess to the fuel required to SDG progress" stated UN secretary general Antonio Guterres In addition over 100 countries will present national committments to SDG transformation and areas of investments setting national benchmarks for reducing poverty and inequalitie

        A photo of Media council of Kenya               CEO David omwoyo at a past event NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 19... Media Council of Kenya strongly condemn attack on journalists who were covering a security operation at an illegal alcohol brewing den in Matungulu machakos county Mike Ndunda from Kamba TV, Richard muasya from Athiani FM and Boniface mutisya of Mutongoi TV had been invited to cover the raid of conducted by katine are chief Francis mulinge and were attacked while recording the operation  "We wish to remind members of the public that freedom of the press is a fundamental pillar of a democratic society an journalist play a crucial role in keeping the public informed by highlighting societal evils" reads a statement  In addition media council of Kenya added that attacks on journalists not only vialote basic human rights but also undermine principles of free speech and open discourse that are vital for a healthy society  "We urge our law enforcement

NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 18... National council of churches of kenya (NCCK) has come out to commend the progress of reaching agreement on the agenda for bipartisan consultative process This comes as Azimio coalition issued demand on the criteria to be used in selection of new IEBC commisoners to take up the role saying that the process should be inclusive of all parties to enhance transparent and fair process "In view of foregoing review of the apointment of IEBC commissioners in the past,  we strongly recomend that political parties should not play a role in the process as a core principle a player should not be the one to select the referee" reads a statement  In addition they said that they recognise that the operations of the selection pannel have been paralyzed by political process especially with regard to the Bipartisan talks They further stated that IEBC act be ammended to provide that in future processes adding that the selection panel will be present only 1 na

NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 18... Multichoice Kenya has annouced widening of customer access to its premium 24-hour local content channel Maisha magic plus to even more kenyans in a campaign dubbed "Tumefungulia magic" Maisha magic  plus (MMP) which was previously only accessible on compact , compact plus and premium on DSTV and on Supa, supa plus on GOTV will be available for customers access Managing director Multichoice Nzola Muranda while speaking during the media content showcase said that the company is proud of its latest content  offering the richness and diversity of its people and the value of hyperlocalisation to its customers  "We are excited about what the future holds and we beleive that by working together we can countinue to showcase the talent and diversity of Kenyan culture create a thriving local film industry that contributes to growth and development of the country" said Nzola miranda  In addition the showcase gave the audience a deep-dive in

NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 17... WAMA International Group, a holding company that oversees franchise operations across Africa is celebrating a successful partnership with ALDO Group International by opening the second ALDO Store in Nairobi at Westgate Mall.  The first store opened its doors on April 15th at The Sarit Center Mall. Therefore, it has been granted the exclusive license to establish, own, and operate ALDO stores in Kenya. This follows the Distribution Agreement between ALDO Group International and Gedeon & Co, SARL.  WAMA International's expansion plans in East Africa continue to flourish with this exciting partnership following their successful ventures with various brands in Libya, Rwanda, and Uganda. The ALDO Group International brings a wide range of fashion footwear and accessories all offered at accessible prices the partnership will pave the way for up to four new stores to open soon, as WAMA International seeks to expand its presence in the region.

NAIROBI, Kenya September 15.. .Energy and petroleum regulatory Authority (EPRA) has announce new fuel prices which has seen it rise significantly  Kenyans have express disappointment with EPRA as it has for the first time in history Super petrol , diesel and kerosene has crossed the KSH 200 mark bearing the high cost if living being experienced in the country  Super petrol have increased by Ksh 16.96, diesel ksh 21.32 and kerosene by 33.13 per litre which significantly indicates that petrol will retail at ksh 211.64, diesel at 200.99 and kerosene at 202.61 per litre  The average landing cost of imported super petrol increased by 6.8 percent from $691.76 per cubic metre in June 2023 to $739.09 per cubic metre in july 2023, Diesel increased by 4.29 percent from $673.14 per cubic metre to $701.99 per cubic metre while kerosene increased by 7.41 percent from $642.91 per cubic metres to $690.58 per cubic metre "The prices are inclusive of 16 percent Value added Tax (VAT) in

NAIROBI, Kenya September 15... The strategic collaborations between the two  organisation employ data-driven insights to address the escalating healthcare costs resulting from civic unrest in the country  "Balance between safeguarding civil liberties and maintaining public well being necessitates a through examinations of correlation between political demonstrations and healthcare facilities" "With bipartisan talks underway collaboration between smart Applications international and the Kenya healthcare federation seeks to foster economic revival and tangible benefits for kenyan citizens " reads a statement  Chairman of Kenya healthcare federation Dr. kanyenje Gakombe said that the goal is to provide comprehensive insights into dynamics of healthcare services costs across major cities and towns during the preriod of unrests  "The analysis , spanning key demonstration periods reveals parttens of increased healthcare costs with protesrs notably sabasab

NAIROBI, Kenya September 13... The two day conference in Nairobi brings together delagates from different counties and organisations to discuss and advocate for sustainable resilient and inclusive agri-food systems in kenya  Ministry of Agriculture puts access of Nutritious food by working with small scale farmers and private sector to provide a sustainable intergrated market in advocting of more indegenous food  In addition the conference is set to address critical issues affecting kenyans food system as represenatatives urge kenyans to adopt more of indegenous foo 5 percent of kenyans consume vegetables which shows a low number as they urge people to enhance more consumption of vegetables  Subsequently the ministry aims in improving food security to enhance food security in a bid of reducing malnutrition especially on women and children  Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with ministry of Health is set to provide information of diet that will be nutritious to people

NAIROBI, Kenya September 12 ...The new strategy aims to ensure secure payments experience for a diverse range of businesses The sectors include financial services players banks,  saccos and digital lenders as well as SMES in general trade , healthcare facilities, educational institution, transport sector , agricultural and Manufacturing enterprises "Through our rebrand, we aim to redefine the role of payments and act as meeting point between Kenyan businesses and their customers" said Sasapay Chief operating officer Daniel Njoroge  In addition the firm unveilved disruptive models will focus more on strategic partneships engeenered to enable it customers derive more value from there wallets through solutions in savings , lending , investments and automated payments  "We shall be the first to enable kenyans transact in foreign currency through there wallets a breakthrough that has been enable through its Central bank of Kenya regulated patner Wapipay" adde

          President William Ruto with AU               chairperson Mousse Faki NAIROBI, Kenya September 10... The Africa climate Summit co-hosted by the African Union commission the United Nations framework convention on climate change (UNFCCC) President William Ruto announces the release of the African leaders Nairobi declaration on climate Change and call to action The inaugural ACS was held in Nairobi with the presence of African and global leaders , Intergovenmental organisations, Regional economic communities , United Nations agencies , private sector , civil society organisations,  indegenous people, local communities  and youth  "Our summit recognises that Africa is affected by the climate crisis but equally importantly it highlights that investing in the continent future can significantly benefit  the region and the world" said Joseph nganga, CEO of Africa climate summit The declaration urges developed countries to honour their commitment  on providing $10

Nairobi, Kenya September 8... Non state actors committee (NSAC) has expressed disatisfaction over Africa Climate summit (ACS) 2023 saying that the summit missed an opportunity to have a strong African position established route to address climate crisis  "We express dissapointment that the declaration does not prioritize adaptation as a critical concern for Africa an leaves it a mere peripheral issue , we would like to remind the head of states that adaptation is not only crucial for survival but also as a matter of justice" reads a statement The committee further said that the declaration does not adequately address emotive issue of just transition which is crucial in leaving no one behind in the shift to low-carbon economy  "We note that the declaration only mentions just transition one without details or commitments on how we should define it in our own narrative and perspectives and how it will be implemented" stated a statement NSAC urged heads of s

Nairobi, Kenya September 8.. . The Pan-African Climate Justice alliance (PACJA) launches a campaign as they steer up in advocating for climate justice across the continent  The campaign "Keep the promise" calls for developed nations, leaders to fulfil their promises and be accountable in climate actions calling on commitments of head of states in pushing for financing to help combat climate crisis in the continent  It comes as the climate week historic event held in Nairobi comes to an end where dozens of Heads of states, parliamentarians, institutions , partners and other delegates convened at the Africa climate summit (ACS) 2023 In addition the campaign will work together with various groups of people to enhance effectiveness of climate response measures While calling on leaders to honour their commitments for climate action saying that its time for less talk and more action on Climate  This comes as road to Cop28 begins which is set to take place in Dubai urgin

Nairobi, Kenya September 7... The UAE's clean energy champion has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Africa50 which work to bridge infrastructure funding gap and mobilize public and private finance  Masdar one of the world's largest clean energy companies and the largest in Africa committed $2 billion of equity as part of the UAE finance initiative which was announced during the Africa Climate Summit (ACS) by HE Dr. Sultan Al Jaber chairman of Masdar and Cop28 president-designate  In addition the initiative brings together public, private and development capital from UAE institutions notable from Abu Dhabi fund for development (ADFD) , Etihad credit insurance (ECI) , Masdar and AMEA power  Africa is expected to join the initiative as a strategic partner  "We welcome this important partnership with Africa50 which brings a key stakeholder to the table for inclusive , equitable and energy transition we look forward to working with Africa for Africa&qu

Nairobi, Kenya September 6... Devki group has taken the lead in reducing it carbon footprint with 4MWp rooftop solar plant deployed at the Ruiru Devki steel manufacturing site installed by distributed power Africa (DPA) Kenya limited Subsequently the move will see devki operations sustainable allowing for greater efficiency business countinuity during power outages and cost savings  "By investing in solar energy , Devki has not only prioritized cost savings but also positively impacted the environment , our commitment to renewable energy aligns with global efforts to combat climate change" Said Mr. Narendra Raval , Chairman Devki group  Anually the initiative saves 41, 000 trees and reduces carbon emmisions by 4, 000 tones with environmental impact significant which is a practical demonstration and commitment to the African climate summit's theme of driving Green growth and climate finance solutions for Africa and the world  "DPA Kenya limited applauds co

Nairobi, Kenya September 5... Stakeholders from across the country convened at a national conference to provide space for the exchange of experiences , perspectives learning and scale up on practical lessons  Inclusive of challenges faced by communities, governments and funders in promoting locally-led climate action with a specific focus on financing locally led climate action (FLLOCA) programme in Kenya ActionAid Exucutive director Susan Otieno urge for need for transparency and aaccountability are respected to ensure community has access to locally led climate Action  Most importantly it should be noted that the program has successfuly disbursed KSH 979 million under the county climate institutional support grants to 45 and 44 counties respectively since its inception in 2021 Mithika mwenda exucutive director PACJA reiterated that there must be a protocal to be followed to ensure that communities have access to funding which should enable them address impacts of climate

Nairobi, Kenya September 5... The worsening climate crisis in East Africa has been extreme as Kenya,  Ethiopia, Somalia and South Sudan incurred $7.4 billion of livestock loses as a result of climate change  According to Oxfam report shows that the biggest polluting nations have fallen short of meeting humanitarian funds that East African countries need to recover from climate fuelled hunger crisis "Even by their own generous accounts, polluting nations have delivered only pittance to help East Africa scale up mitigation and adaptation efforts with nearly 45 percent of the funds they did give were loans thus plunging the region on further debt" Oxfam in Africa director Fati N'zi-Hassane said  Furthermore the prolonged drought and ematic rainfalls have killed nearly 13 million animals and decimated hundreds of thousands of hectares of crops leaving people without income nor food In addition the four countries have significantly lost approximately $7.4 billion w

Nairobi, Kenya September 5... The launch and signing of Kenya's Green Hydrogen Strategy. Signed by Thomas Östros  European Investment Bank, Dr. Bärbel Kofler Parliamentary State Secretary, German(Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (Bundesministerium für wirtschaftliche Zusammenarbeit und Entwicklung (BMZ))  H.E. Ursula von der Leyen  President, European Commission and H.E. President Republic Of Kenya, Dr. William Samoei Ruto

Nairobi, Kenya September 4... Africa Climate summit (ACS) 2023 officially kicks off with thousands of delegates and heads of states across the globe attending the historic event in Nairobi, Kenya President William Ruto led other heads of state, parliamentarians, institutions  and partners at the historic event bringing together African leaders and delegates on discussing climate issues across the globe  Speaking during the opening of ACS2023 PACJA Executive director Dr Mithika mwenda emphasized  that historic divide between the North and the South I Climate negotiations and stressed the importance of focusing adaptation and mitigation to combat the existential threat to humanity and the planet  "This summit is not just about conversations , its about restoring hop and dignity to those whose lives have been disrupted by climate changes" reads a statement  The 3-day conference is set to address climate issues across the globe as dozens of leaders gather together to

Nairobi, Kenya Sep 4... The three-day conference will be televised live on DStv Channel 199 (Kenya) and GOtv Channels 59 (Kenya), 159 (Uganda) and 359 (Ghana) from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m additionally the historic conference will also be available on DStv Stream.  The conference which is co-hosted by the Government of Kenya and the African Union Commission is set to take place in Nairobi The  high-level delegation from Africa and other parts of the globe including policy makers, climate experts, civil society organizations, climate actors to find practical solutions to mitigate climate effects In addition Environment and Climate change are areas that form an integral part of MultiChoice’s business ecosystem through the content it airs as well as its long-standing relationship with the global climate initiative " As the leading entertainment company in Africa through its extensive footprint across 50 countries on the continent, through DStv and GOtv there is an opportunit

Nairobi, Kenya September 3... As the much anticipated African Climate summit (ACS) 2023 approach Non-state actors steering committee has express disappointment over the preparations of the summit citing Civil society exclusion and western interest dominance  "We are deeply concerned that the summit agenda remains inclined to promote markets based solutions and Transnational coperation's involvement while neglecting the people" said a statement  "Summit organizers have deliberately failed to ensure adequate participation  and consultation of non-state actors especially those from marginalised communities in the planning and implementation of the summit" adds the statement   As the summit set to kick off in a few hours steering committee wants African leaders to acknowledge the urgent need to address the climate emergency and protects the livelihoods of its citizens In addition the group also rejects false solutions undermining African communities'