Author: Martha Etale

The Government of Kenya has unveiled the National Cervical Cancer Elimination Action Plan 2026–2030, a five-year strategy developed with support from the World Health Organization (WHO). The plan aims to accelerate prevention, early detection, and treatment of cervical cancer — one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in Kenya. Cervical Cancer Burden: Kenya and Beyond Cervical cancer remains the second most common cancer among women in Kenya, with an estimated 5,845 new casesand 3,600 deaths each year. Globally, it is the fourth most common cancer among women, causing 660,000 new casesand 350,000 deaths annually, with 90% of…

Ride-hailing company Uber, has discontinued Visa card payments in Kenya, a move that has disrupted a key payment option for business travellers and expatriates. The decision, which took effect in January, follows Uber’s global review of payment methods amid rising transaction costs. An Uber spokesperson explained: “Payment costs globally are on the rise, which impacts businesses and their consumers. We regularly review our payment methods on a market-by-market basis to ensure we’re keeping costs reasonable while balancing any potential impact on consumer experience.” While Visa cardholders are affected, other payment options such as Mastercard, American Express, M-Pesa, and cash remain…

Co‑working space provider Kofisi has closed two of its Nairobi locations—Karen and Upper Hill—after reporting a KSh 416.7 million (USD 3.2 million) loss in 2024, reversing a profit of KSh 2.3 billion (USD 16.3 million) in 2023. According to its annual report for the year ended December 31, 2024, the London-based company closed the two sites to concentrate on larger, higher-capacity centres in Kenya. The move is designed to enhance client experience through community spaces, hotel‑style services, and economies of scale. Kenya Remains Kofisi’s Largest Market Despite the loss, Kofisi’s revenues rose 24.5% to KSh 1.4 billion (USD 10.3 million) in 2024, supported…

Africa’s leading economists, policymakers, and private sector leaders have kicked off a three-day African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) Research and Policy Summit, a high-level forum dedicated to shaping pathways for sustainable and inclusive growth across the continent. Hosted under the theme “A Renewed AERC for Africa’s New Development Priorities,” the summit brings together eminent scholars, central bank governors, and development partners to debate Africa’s evolving economic challenges and opportunities. Reclaiming Africa’s Economic Narrative Opening the summit, National Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, in remarks delivered by PS Bonface Barasa Makokha, urged delegates to redefine Africa’s development model: “Today, we must reclaim…

NCBA Investment Bank has unveiled a new suite of Offshore Investment Solutions, designed to give clients access to professionally managed global portfolios, currency diversification, and long-term wealth-building opportunities. Strengthening Global Wealth Access Managing Director Muathi Kilonzo emphasised that the platform leverages NCBA’s regional and international footprint to deliver safe, compliant, and client-focused investment options. “We’re utilising our global presence, market knowledge, and expertise to create a solid offshore investment setup. Our goal is to ensure it meets all regulatory standards in various markets and truly connects with our clients’ needs, helping them invest their capital safely while aiming for reliable…

Heineken N.V. has confirmed its withdrawal from eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), selling its Bukavu brewery to Synergy Ventures Holdings Ltd of Mauritius for a symbolic €1. Why the Exit? The Dutch brewer cited humanitarian considerations and the loss of operational control to armed personnel in June 2025. This followed the M23 group’s takeover of Bukavu in February, which left the brewery looted and damaged. Heineken explained: “The transfer is driven by a humanitarian objective to safeguard jobs and livelihoods, maintain vital community services and prevent misuse of the facility in a volatile security environment.” Impact on Operations The…