Absa Bank Kenya has launched the Empower Her County Program. This initiative aims to empower 30,000 women-led micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs) across Kakamega, Bungoma, and Vihiga counties. The initiative is being implemented in partnership with the Executive Office of the President (Women’s Rights Advisor), Africa Guarantee Fund (AGF), and Masinde Muliro University. The program tackles gender-based economic inequalities faced by women entrepreneurs. It provides them with the tools and resources needed to: upskill their businesses, build resilience and thrive in today’s competitive market The program includes training modules on various business aspects which include: Business registration and taxation…
Author: Muindi
Kenya is one of the few countries in the world that are known to have peculiar habits that have evolved into a recognizable cultural identity. Kenyans exhibit unique behaviours and practices, making a cultural tapestry unmistakable wherever they are encountered worldwide. Notably, Kenya boasts one of the most vibrant and engaged internet communities globally, epitomized by the formidable Kenyans on X (KOX). This online battalion fiercely defends its own against any perceived threats, showcasing the power of social media to amplify voices and catalyse global conversations. Celebrating Traditions: Festivals, Food, Music, and a National Identity Furthermore, Kenya garners international acclaim…
Safaricom’s Spark Fund has shortlisted nine promising startups for its accelerator program. These startups focus on various areas within the tech space, including: Fintech: Chumz (savings gamification), Nobuk (group payments), VunaPay (agri co-op platform) Social Commerce: Twiva (social commerce platform) Productivity Tools: Faidi HR (HR platform), Churpy (task automation) Content & Engagement: Chpter (social sales platform) VR Technology: BlackRhino VR Earlier this week, our Chief Business Development and Strategy Officer @MikeMutiga led the unveil of nine early-stage startups that are set to benefit from the #SparkAccelerator Program, a platform for bold and visionary founders to grow and scale their businesses.…
Absa Bank Kenya PLC says it recorded a 34% year-over-year increase in its profit after tax to Kshs. 5.9 billion for the period ending March 31, 2024. Highlights Profit after tax jumped 34% to Kshs. 5.9 billion. Loans and advances grew 5% to Kshs. 327 billion, demonstrating the Bank’s commitment to supporting customer growth. Customer deposits increased by 14% to Kshs. 355 billion, strengthening the Bank’s balance sheet. Total revenues rose 19% to Kshs. 16.5 billion, driven by revenue diversification strategies and rising customer assets. Interest income saw a significant increase of 22% to Kshs. 11.4 billion. Non-funded income grew…
The 2024 Think Business Banking Awards saw Kenya’s banking sector celebrate excellence and innovation. KCB Bank Kenya emerged as a major winner taking home top honours in two key categories. KCB beat out Equity and Sidian for the top spot, reflecting their efforts in digital transformation and providing innovative financial solutions. In addition, KCB secured first place in Sustainable Corporate Social Responsibility ahead of Equity and I&M, showcasing their commitment to positive community impact. The lender was also the 1st Runner-Up: Best Retail Banking (behind Equity); and 2nd Runner-Up Best Bank in Tier 1 Category (behind Equity and Standard Chartered).…
The University of Nairobi (UoN) is proactively shaping its curriculum to address the critical needs of the future job market, both in technology and environmental sustainability. The institution says it is going to establish an Artificial Intelligence (AI) school. This initiative aims to develop a skilled workforce through Kenya’s first-ever AI master’s degree program. UoN Chancellor, Prof. Patrick Verkooijen, emphasised the economic potential of AI and how the university is well-positioned for this endeavour. “We have the top computer science and business students, and a strong focus on innovation, which creates a perfect foundation for this AI program,” he stated…

