Author: David Indeje

Since protests against the Finance Bill 2024 began on June 18, 2024, a disturbing pattern of human rights abuses has emerged in Kenya. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has documented at least 50 deaths, 59 abductions, and 682 arbitrary arrests. These numbers are spread across 17 counties, highlighting the widespread nature of the crackdown. “Despite the continued calls for a stop to the abductions, we have noted that the kidnappings, illegal arrests and torture of innocent Kenyans have continued,” KNCHR adds. Kenya’s Press Freedom Declines: A Troubling Trend The media has not been spared. Journalists have been…

Imagine a world where women-led businesses survive but thrive, where their ingenuity and determination are met with robust financial support. Capital becomes a catalyst for change in this landscape, empowering women entrepreneurs to break barriers, innovate, and create lasting impact.  Women are the backbone of the African economy and Africa is home to the highest percentage of women entrepreneurs in the world. Yet African women continue to face huge hurdles facing prohibitive interest rates, lacking collateral and financial institutions failing to respond to the specific needs of women. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted women entrepreneurs in Kenya, exacerbating existing challenges.…

Morine Mahadi isn’t just a bartender; she’s an artist crafting memorable experiences with every drink. Her passion, dedication, and commitment to connection make her a true asset to the industry. Her journey began in the world of hospitality, but it wasn’t until she landed an internship in a hotel bar that she discovered her true calling. From the front office to the kitchen, nothing resonated with her quite like the energy and connection behind the bar. Tantalized by the rows of colourful bottles and the rhythmic dance of the bartenders, Maureen knew this was where she belonged. “The bartenders with…

Kenya’s private sector activity fell in June, the sharpest drop in seven months, contrasting with the 16-month high recorded in May. Data from the Stanbic Bank Kenya Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) fell to 47.2 in June from 51.8 in May. A PMI reading of above 50.0 indicates an improvement in the business conditions, while readings below 50.0 indicate a deterioration.  During the period, widespread economic challenges, protests surrounding the Finance Bill 2024, and policy uncertainty led to a significant decline in sales volumes across most sectors. “The downturn was partially softened by a rise in new orders across manufacturing, which was…

Kenya’s High Court has declared the laws establishing the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF), unconstitutional. However, the court offered a lifeline, suspending its decision for 45 days. A three-judge bench led by Presiding Judge Justice Alfred Mabeya and justices Robert Limo and Dr. Freda Mugambi ruled that Parliament did not adequately involve the public in crafting the laws – Social Health Insurance Fund Act, 2023; Digital Health Act, 2023 and Primary Health Act, 2023. Sections of the Social Health Insurance Act requiring mandatory contributions to access public services and healthcare were deemed unconstitutional. This violates the right to emergency medical…

Nippon Paint Holdings Co., Ltd, a Japanese paint and paint products manufacturing company has launched its operations in East Africa. The company has established a wholly-owned subsidiary, NIPSEA Paint Kenya, which will introduce cutting-edge Japanese technology in automotive refinishing, car care, wood coating, and industrial coatings. Initially, Nippon Paint will utilize a central hub in Nairobi, Kenya, to serve the entire East African market before setting up individual operations in each country. This strategic move positions them to capitalize on the region’s dynamic economic growth, burgeoning middle class, and increasing investment opportunities. “We’re excited to establish a permanent presence in Africa,…