
Gov’t moves to dispel myths on proposed 0.8pc Tea Levy, assures farmers of protection
The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has moved to dispel growing concerns over the proposed tea levy, insisting that farmers will not bear the cost and that all proceeds will be reinvested directly into the industry. Under the draft framework, tea exports will attract a levy of 0.8 per cent of the auction value…

Government orders bulk purchase of local rice to stabilise market amid import concerns
Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Kipronoh Rono has directed the Kenya National Trading Corporation (KNTC) and the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) to immediately buy all locally available rice stock from farmers’ stores to stabilise prices and support farmers, as production gaps continue to push Kenya to rely heavily on rice imports. The directive comes…

Microfinance Bill seeks tougher oversight and consumer rights in Kenya’s lending sector
The microfinance industry is poised for its most sweeping regulatory overhaul in two decades, with a new Microfinance Bill before the National Assembly proposing tighter oversight, stronger consumer protections and expanded powers for the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK). Legislators say the reforms are necessary to modernise rules governing microfinance banks, which serve millions of…

Jamii DT Sacco opens branch in Kisumu in its expansion strategy
Jamii DT Sacco has opened a new branch in Kisumu as part of an expansion strategy aimed at growing membership, increasing lending and strengthening its presence in Western Kenya’s rapidly growing economy. The deposit-taking Sacco launched the branch at Mega Plaza in Kisumu City and said it would offer affordable credit facilities to small businesses,…

Equity Group, MSC partner to boost fish farmers with credit, insurance and digital tools
Fishing communities, aquaculture farmers and traders across Kenya are set to benefit from a new programme designed to expand access to credit, insurance, training and modern technology in the fisheries sector. The initiative, launched through a partnership between Equity Group and MicroSave Consulting (MSC), seeks to tackle long‑standing barriers that have slowed growth in Kenya’s…
Co‑operative Bank named Africa’s SME bank of the year at African Banker Awards
The Co‑operative Bank of Kenya has been recognised as SME Bank of the Year in Africa, underscoring its growing influence as one of the continent’s leading financiers of small and medium‑sized enterprises. The award was presented during the 20th African Banker Awards held on the sidelines of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Annual Meetings in…

I&M Bank partners with Google to train Kenyan SMEs in AI and digital skills
Kenyan small and medium‑sized enterprises (SMEs) are set to benefit from free Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital skills training through a new partnership between I&M Bank and Google, aimed at boosting competitiveness in an increasingly digital economy. The initiative will equip entrepreneurs with practical knowledge in AI tools, digital marketing, business strategy and leadership development,…

Ambassador Mucheke calls for equal Africa–Netherlands partnerships in trade and climate cooperation
Kenya’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, Halima Mucheke, has called for equal and sustainable partnerships between Africa and the Netherlands, stressing the need for investment models that prioritise shared prosperity and long‑term development. Speaking after a high‑level meeting with the Dutch Minister of Trade and the African Diplomatic Corps, Amb. Mucheke said discussions focused on strengthening…
Why Resilient Cyber security is key to Saccos’ business transformation
In a rapidly evolving digital business landscape, the financial sector the world over, including Savings and Credit Co-operative (SACCOs), faces unprecedented challenges and opportunities in equal measure. And with this digital transformation regime comes an increased risk of cyber threats and attacks. Indeed, cyber security is not merely an option for any cooperative formation, but…

Mumias Sugar factory resumes operations, pledges prompt payments and fair treatment for all cane farmers
Mumias Sugar 2021 Limited has announced that its factory in Western Kenya is fully operational and ready to receive sugarcane from all farmers following the completion of a planned four-week annual maintenance period. The firm, operated by Sarrai Group under a lease arrangement, said the maintenance work has been concluded and the factory is now…
