Author: Muindi

Back in the early 2000s, paying my university fees meant dressing up and making a trip to the bank to deposit the money in person, and of course, the visit was laced with the greater respect of ‘where money lives.’ Fast forward to today, and the ways of banking have significantly changed, and the future of money is here with us. Modern consumers can effortlessly move money from their bank accounts to mobile wallets using basic or feature phones, while the more affluent transact through their wearable devices. As technology continues to evolve and customer needs become more specialized, the…

In today’s digital age, smartphones have become an indispensable part of our lives. However, their constant presence has led to a concerning rise in smartphone addiction, negatively impacting mental health, relationships, and productivity. To address this growing problem, Human Mobile Devices (HMD) has developed devices designed to curb excessive smartphone usage. The Global Smartphone Addiction Crisis Smartphone addiction is a widespread issue, with studies revealing high rates of problematic usage worldwide. A recent meta-analysis found that nearly 60% of smartphone users felt they were using their devices too much. In the United States alone, 48% of adults reported feeling addicted…

China has pledged to provide $50.6 billion in funding to support its 10-point initiative for Africa over the next three years. This includes $21 billion in loans, $8 billion in aid, and $7 billion in Chinese company investments. During the 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), Chinese President Xi Jinping announced these commitments, along with a pledge to create at least one million jobs in Africa. “China is ready to deepen cooperation with African countries in industry, agriculture, infrastructure, trade and investment,” Xi said. “Over the next three years, the Chinese government is willing to provide financial support amounting to…

Curio Collection by Hilton has opened Kwetu Nairobi, Curio Collection by Hilton, in Kenya’s vibrant capital city. The launch marks the debut of the Curio Collection by Hilton in East Africa and Hilton’s latest opening in Nairobi. Kwetu Nairobi is located near the Central Business District, Gigiri, and the edge of Karura Forest, offering a blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. “We are delighted to open Kwetu Nairobi as part of the Curio Collection by Hilton portfolio,” said Guy Hutchinson, President, Middle East and Africa, Hilton. “Nairobi is a key destination for travellers in East Africa and beyond.” This…

Stanbic Bank Kenya has launched its Asset Management business with two investment products: the Stanbic Money Market Fund (KES) and the Stanbic Fixed Income Fund (USD). These funds offer Kenyans accessible, low-risk investment opportunities with the potential for attractive returns. Key Features of the New Funds Stanbic Money Market Fund (KES) Denominated in Kenyan Shillings. Offers an annualized yield of 15.12%. Minimum investment of KES 1,000. Ideal for investors seeking stable returns and high liquidity. Stanbic Fixed Income Fund (USD) Denominated in US Dollars. Provides an annualized yield of 5.56%. Minimum investment of USD 100. Suitable for investors looking to…

The Kenyan government has introduced two new digital platforms aimed at streamlining the management of presidential directives and foreign travel approvals for senior government officials. The Presidential Directives Management Information System (PDMIS) and the Foreign Travel Management Information System (FOTIMS) are designed to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability within the government.  Key Features and Benefits PDMIS Manages and tracks presidential directives. Eliminates the need for hard copies of directives. Accessible only to cabinet secretaries and principal secretaries. FOTIMS Streamlines the process of approving foreign travel for senior government officials. Ensures justified travel and prudent use of resources. The Kenyan government…