Renewed protests in Kenya against the Finance Bill 2024 raise fears of violence, impact on safety, investment, and government debt. Kenyans resumed protests Tuesday against the Finance Bill 2024, despite President William Ruto’s assurance of a peaceful response from security forces. Dubbed “#OccupyCBDTuesday”, were infiltrated by “goons” to commit violence and theft as was witnessed in Nairobi, Kenya’s capital. Consequently, the bi-weekly protests have forced most businesses to remain closed. The protests began on Tuesday, June 18. Initial demonstrations started peacefully but turned violent on June 25th, with clashes between protesters and police. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights…
Author: David Indeje
David Indeje
David Indeje is the community engagement editor at Khusoko, a leading digital platform for East African business news. He oversees editorial content, drives audience engagement, and amplifies diverse voices. Indeje also consults on digital strategy for brands in agriculture, governance, technology, and health, while exploring AI’s impact on journalism. In addition, he serves as a communications officer at KICTANet, advancing digital inclusion and policy dialogue.
Kenya’s private sector activity witnessed a modest improvement according to Stanbic Bank’s latest Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for May 2024. The index rose to 51.8, up from 50.1 in April 2024, exceeding the neutral mark of 50.0. This signifies a strengthening of operating conditions compared to the previous month. A PMI reading above 50.0 indicates improvement, while below 50.0 indicates deterioration in business conditions. The May 2024 PMI (51.8) represents a 4.9% increase compared to May 2023 (49.4). During the period, inflation remained relatively unchanged at 5.1%, slightly above the Central Bank of Kenya’s (CBK) target of 5.0%. However, it…
Kenya’s oldest media house, Standard Group Plc, is facing a potential shutdown as journalists threaten to strike over unpaid salaries and limited benefits. The Kenya Union of Journalists (KUJ), a trade union that improves, protects and promotes media freedom, professionalism and ethical standards in the media industry, is accusing the company for violating workers’ rights by withholding salaries for seven months, putting a significant strain on employees during a period of high living costs. Despite previous attempts to resolve the issue, KUJ claims the company’s inaction has pushed staff to the brink. “We raised these issues in the past, but…
The Kenyan High Court on Thursday ruled that the military can assist police in controlling protests, but only for a limited time and under clear guidelines. This decision comes after the deployment of soldiers sparked controversy following violent demonstrations against Finance Bill 2024. The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) argued that the deployment violated proper procedures and was unconstitutional. However, the Court disagreed, stating the government followed the constitution. Justice Lawrence Mugambi expressed concerns about transparency and ordered the government to clearly define the duration and scope of the deployment within two days. “The Judge in his ruling agreed with…
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are the lifeblood of Kenya’s economy, contributing nearly 40% of GDP and employing millions. The sector accounts for over 90% of all private enterprises, forming the backbone of the Kenyan business landscape. Subsequently, it employs 93% of the labour force, providing significant job opportunities. MSMEs cater to local demand for various services, ensuring goods and services reach communities across Kenya besides contributing to industrial development by acting as larger companies’ suppliers, distributors, and partners. However, they are more susceptible to different crises compared to large corporates and their growth is often hindered by limited…
Kenya Airways (KQ) relaunched direct flights reconnecting Nairobi and Maputo with three weekly departures on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. This move benefits travellers from Kenya and provides a convenient connection for passengers from other African cities flying through Nairobi. “As we unveil our 45th destination -Maputo – we mark a major milestone in our network expansion journey,” says the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr Allan Kilavuka. KQ aims to boost intra-Africa connectivity, a key driver of economic growth, trade, and business expansion across the continent. The route complements their existing service to Nampula, Mozambique, solidifying their regional…