tagresults
[Column] Christopher Saul: Kenya’s AI revolution can happen with the IT you already have
Kenya has been ranked fifth in Africa on the government’s readiness to incorporate AI in public service delivery. The country is also home to several promising startups that are transforming industries with AI-powered solutions.
Huawei boosts Kenya's national esports team with 5G setup
This edition of the competition is running on a 5G network as a result of a partnership between Huawei Kenya and the Esports Federation of Kenya.
[Kenya] ICT Authority to spearhead e-waste management for government agencies
Public institutions in Kenya can now deliver their electronic waste to the ICT Authority (ICTA) to minimize the adverse environmental impacts of e-waste while creating jobs.
[Kenya] Safaricom partners with Signs Media to host the assistALL mini app on M-PESA App
Safaricom has partnered with Signs Media to host the assistALL mini app, which provides on-demand sign language interpretation services, within the M-PESA App in a bid to foster inclusivity and accessibility for Kenyans with hearing impairment.
Cloud adoption in Kenya to generate KES 1.4 trillion economic boost, AWS study
Kenya has the potential to unlock KES 1.4 trillion of additional economic value over the next decade (2023-2033) from cloud adoption according to a new study commissioned by Amazon Web Services (AWS).
[Kenya] Logistics startup Sendy goes into administration after failing to find a buyer
By going into administration, Sendy confirms it has now become insolvent and is now seeking legal protection from the suppliers and organisations it owes money to while it’s developing a restructuring plan.
Safaricom launches new cloud services targeting local businesses
Safaricom on Wednesday launched an in-country cloud computing platform and services targeting local businesses. The new cloud services, hosted in Data centres in Nairobi and Kisumu are powered by VMware technologies.
[Kenya] Britam introduces child-only medical cover
Britam General Insurance has unveiled a stand-alone health insurance package designed exclusively for children aged between 37 weeks and 18 years to cater for their specific needs dubbed Milele Junior.
Fintech firm Lipa Later closes a sh500 million privately placed debt issue
This raise was supported by Rubicon Landing, a reputable transaction advisory firm, acting as the transaction advisors and KN Law, a leading legal advisory firm, acting as the Legal Advisors.
Industry Leaders Ignite Innovation at Women Who Build Africa's Tech Assembly in Nairobi
he Assembly, aimed at fostering connections and stimulating discussions among women in the tech industry, attracted over 200 attendees from across Africa and globally, including notable names like Micheline Ntiru, of Kenya Climate Ventures.
Kenya launches online application platform for offenders seeking presidential pardon
The platform has been launched in collaboration with the Power of Mercy Advisory Committee (POMAC) and will be known as Power of Mercy Petitions Management Information System (ePOMPMIS).
Huawei and Kenyan First Lady join hands to empower women with digital skills
Huawei Kenya has partnered with MaMa Doing Good, a non-government organization led by First Lady Rachel Ruto to empower Kenyan women with digital skills.
Ex-Facebook moderator Daniel Motaung calls on African digital workers to champion digital rights
Daniel Motaung, Former Facebook Content Moderator, Whistleblower and Union Mobilizer has called on digital workers across Africa to come together and champion for digital rights especially on concerns around Artificial Intelligence (AI).
[Kenya] Safaricom joins UN Global Compact’s Forward Faster Initiative
Safaricom has joined the UN Global Compact’s Forward Faster initiative that aims to accelerate private sector action to deliver on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and meet the 2030 Agenda.
[Kenya] Bolt launches reward scheme and improved safety measures for its drivers
On-demand transport platform Bolt has announced the launch of an innovative Driver Reward Scheme for its drivers in Kenya. The company said in a statement that the reward scheme is designed to enhance driver engagement and empower the driver community.
Kua Ventures invests over $1 million in Kenyan SMEs
Kua Ventures, an impact investment firm based in Kenya, has reached a new investment milestone after surpassing USD 1 million (approximately Ksh. 145 million) in funding committed to the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the country.
Lipa Later has secured $5 million in private debt issuance
Lipa Later successfully closes a KES 500 Million privately placed debt issue and sets sights on raising Kes. 2BN
[Kenya] M-Pesa customers can now send money and make payments of up to ksh. 250,000 per transaction
Kenya's leading telco Safaricom has today increased M-PESA transactions limit to KSh. 250,000 for each transaction.
Kenya sets up national council to drive growth of new Internet addressing
The Kenya Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPV6) Council will be responsible for driving the country’s overall uptake of devices and internet connections to homes and enterprises in line with the National IPV6 Strategy developed by the Communications Authority.
[Column] Ruth Njihia: Unleash your business potential with Google Cloud and Incentro Africa
In today's fast-paced world, data is the currency of success. Yet, many businesses across Africa face the daunting challenge of collecting, storing, analyzing, and visualizing their data effectively.
[Charting a Cloud-Driven Tomorrow] Tim Kuria: Incentro Africa's modernization expertise
Today, I'm thrilled to dive into the fascinating world of cloud computing infrastructure modernization with you.
Search interest for Artificial Intelligence at an all-time high in Kenya
Google search trends show that people have searched for AI more than ever in 2023 so far, with interest rising 270% since last year - and 400% over the last five years.
[Google Cloud Security] Irene Mutile: Protect your business data and applications
You’ve probably heard a lot about the importance of securing your digital footprints, but in truth, security is crucial and firms need to prepare for what’s coming.
Equity Bank and Mastercard sign agreement to scale consumer payment experience in the region
Equity Bank has signed an ambitious Customer Business Agreement with Mastercard, aimed at giving customers a broad range of benefits from a wide selection of Mastercard payment solutions ranging from World and World Elite cards, corporate cards and virtual cards
Fintech startup Sendwave launches new banking product targeting Kenyans in the US
Kenyans living in the US stand to gain from a new banking product that allows users to earn interest and pay reduced fees on international remittances. The new product dubbed Sendwave Pay was recently launched by digital remittance company Sendwave.
[Kenya] Five Kenyan cleantech startups selected for JICA’s Project NINJA accelerator
Five Kenyan cleantech startups have been selected to take part in the 3rd cohort of Japan International Cooperation Agency’s (JICA) entrepreneurship support initiative, Project NINJA (Next INnovation with Japan).
Kenyan financial services group Britam unveils aviation insurance solution
The solutions include Crew Personal Accident Cover, Airport Owners & Operators Liability, Hull All Risks Cover, Hull War and Legal Liability covers.
[Kenya] E-Tourism Frontiers relaunches operations with a new focus on Ai and Tourism
E-Tourism Frontiers, a leading online tourism consultancy specializing in developing digital tourism strategies for global markets has relaunched in Kenya today.
Liquid Intelligent Technologies announces two cross-border fibre routes, improving connectivity
This significant achievement will allow for greater efficiency and reliable regional connectivity, both key to the economic development of these countries.
TelCables Nigeria to showcase its connectivity solutions International Telecoms Week in Africa in Nairobi
Commercial and retail ICT and connectivity solutions provider Telcables Nigeria, a subsidiary of Angola Cables, will be participating in the inaugural International Telecoms Week Africa 2023 (ITW) taking place from 12 to 14 September in Nairobi, Kenya.
Sama to hire 2,100 Kenyans for its AI business
Sama, a provider of data annotation and model validation solutions, has announced plans to hire and train 2,000 youth and women to work on computer visioning projects for leading Fortune 500 companies.
[Column] Phyllis Migwi: The digital transformation challenge facing governments
News reports from across the world indicate cyberattacks against state and local governments continue to accelerate, with activity targeting critical infrastructure jumping from 20 to 40 percent of all nation-state attacks.
[Kenya] Bloggers benefit from Digital Security Training by Paradigm Initiative and MCK
Paradigm Initiative (PIN), a pan-African organisation that advocates for digital rights and inclusion, has joined hands with Kenya’s media regulator, the Media Council of Kenya (MCK), to conduct digital security training for bloggers in the country.
[Kenya] Konza Technopolis Appoints John Paul Okwiri as CEO
Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA), the agency mandated to implement the Konza Technopolis project, has today announced the appointment of Mr John Paul Okwiri as its new CEO.
[Kenya] Safaricom revamps device financing plan with new Neon Smartphones
Safaricom has introduced two new neon smartphones to Lipa Mdogo Mdogo as it continues to enable Kenyans to access the internet through smartphones that they can pay-as-they-use on a daily or weekly basis.
[Kenya] Tatu City partners with ForestFood to grow carbon-neutral organic produce
ForestFoods' first farm at Tatu City, located next to Crawford International School, integrates plants and forestry to promote a healthier, sustainable, clean food supply that contributes to reforestation, climate change mitigation and ecosystem restoration.
ICT Authority's Huduma Whitebox Program fuels tech entrepreneurship in Kenya
The Huduma Whitebox Program is run through a partnership between the ICT Authority and Strathmore following the signing of an MOU in February 2023.
[Happening Now] IEA jointly with AfDB are launching Report on Financing Clean Energy in Africa- ACS23
The International Energy Agency (IA) and the African Development Bank Group (AfDB) are jointly launching a report on Financing Clean Energy in Africa.
Africa Finance Corporation partners with Kenya's CPF Financial Services to boost infrastructure investment
The collaboration aligns AFC, with a track record of generating competitive returns on over US$12.7 billion of investments in transformational infrastructure projects across 36 African countries
[Column] Anthony Mwangi: Kenya’s green manufacturing for a sustainable future
Over the last 18 years, KAM, in collaboration with the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, has made tremendous efforts to promote energy efficiency in manufacturing.
UK government commits £15 million funding to strengthen health workforce in Kenya, Nigeria and Ghana
The UK will provide a multi-million pound boost to support healthcare staff recruitment and retention in 3 African countries - Kenya, Nigeria and Ghana - supporting resilience against global health challenges.
[Kenya] Safaricom inks deal with a consortium of Kenyan Banks to fund sustainability agenda
Safaricom has announced the closure of a multi-billion Sustainability Linked Loan (SLL) to strengthen its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) agenda.
Kenya breaks ground for region's first geothermal energy powered data center
The facility will directly benefit from the 953 Megawatts of Geothermal Power Generation capacity at Olkaria and will be the first major investment at the newly created KenGen Smart Industrial Park to fully utilize green, reliable and sustainable power.
[Kenya] 7 in 10 businesses support digital payments for ease of trade, report
An assessment contained in the report dubbed ‘The Future of Finance‘ listed ease of transacting and record keeping among key drivers of digital payments despite a five per cent increment in excise duty.
Fintech firm Lipa Later gets nod for public fundraising in the US
This is a significant milestone for Lipalater as it has become one of the first African companies to secure the green light from the esteemed US Regulator - SEC!
STIHL East Africa responds to region's energy needs with plans to launch battery powered products
STIHL East Africa Managing Director Francois Marais said the move is necessitated by the demand for sustainable energy sources amidst global climate change challenges.
Uber launches Electric Boda in Kenya
Today Uber has announced the launch of Electric Boda in Kenya, a first for Uber in Africa, and a significant milestone in sustainable mobility on the continent.
[Kenya] Medtech conference calls for investment in local solutions to bolster medical devices sector
Kenya is the fourth largest medical technology devices exporter in Africa at 3.1 percent of exports from Africa to the rest of the world ahead of Tunisia and Mauritius according to a keynote speech at the just concluded inaugural Transforming African Medtech Conference.
inDrive to invest in boosting driver safety in Kenya
In a move that demonstrates its unwavering commitment to enhancing safety for urban mobility in Kenya, inDrive has made a significant investment of nearly half a million Kenyan shillings.
[Column] Rajan Shah: Strengthening local value chains key to Kenya’s transformation
The government, through the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), has committed to drive economic and inclusive growth through agricultural value chain approach.
[Kenya] Hewlett Packard partners with Mitsumi Distribution to drive market growth
Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) operated by Selectium has entered into a partnership with Mitsumi Distribution in a strategic move to expand market share and boost revenues.
[Kenya] Visa working with local banks to roll out Tap To Pay payment services
The new Tap To Pay service allows customers to make in-store payments through their banking App by tapping their Near-field communication (NFC) enabled smartphones at any contactless-enabled payment terminal.
[Networking Event] One Africa | Leadership Development Program
One Africa Co-Founder Jan van Betten will be in Nairobi on Wednesday 30 August to discuss the One Africa Leadership Program with CEOs. You are invited to join!
DTB and Boya join forces to introduce virtual cards for business payments
The partnership is a collaborative effort between the two organisations that combines their respective strengths to drive innovation, enhance customer experience, and reshape the financial industry.
Glovo Ads launched in Kenya to drive small businesses’ growth
Glovo, one of the world’s leading multi-category apps, has launched Glovo Ads in Kenya, a new offering designed to enable brands, restaurants, and shops to accelerate their business growth, engagement, and sales between users.
Kenyan fintech Cellulant cuts off 20% of its workforce
Cellulant, the Kenyan-based payments firm is laying off 20% of its workforce. The restructuring exercise the fintech says is expected to be implemented in the coming days.
Kentegra Biotechnology received funds to boost the expansion of pyrethrin production in Kenya
Finnfund and DFC commit 15 million US dollars in equity and loan financing to Kentegra Biotechnology to boost the expansion of pyrethrin production in Kenya.
[Kenya] KCB and GIZ graduate 3,500 2Jiajiri beneficiaries as it scales programme
KCB Group is scaling the 2Jiajiri programme, the youth empowerment and job creation programme in Kenya and extending it to the other markets where the Bank operates in.
[Kenya] CA focuses on curbing emerging cyber threats
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has moved forward to enhance cyber security through the capacity building of young cyber security experts across the country, even as the government is digitizing its services, enabling citizens to engage with the government’s service provision online.
[Column] Mukesh Bector: How Augmented Reality is transforming print technology
The introduction of AR in print technology has redefined user engagement. Print materials are no longer passive entities but gateways to immersive experiences.
Webb Fontaine and Kenya Trade Network Agency unveil platform to support the logistics market
The innovative, first-of-its-kind platform is poised to reshape logistics practices, igniting trade volumes, catalyzing e-commerce growth, and serving as a catalyst for further development of this immense trade marketplace.
[Google Cloud Cost Optimization] The ultimacy of cutting down cloud costs
One of the significant advantages of utilizing cloud technology is the ability to easily adjust the scale of resources based on demand, resulting in reduced operational costs.
[Column] Kelly Bwambok: Data democratization - the key to success in the digital age
In today's digital age, data is king. Businesses that can harness the power of data to make better decisions are at a significant advantage over their competitors.
[Column] Rajan Shah: Rethinking Kenya’s export strategy key for economic prosperity
Historically, the transformative growth of industrialized nations has been propelled by exports.
[Kenya] 10 more counties sign up for Safaricom's MyCounty App
Ten more counties have taken up MyCounty App, an all-in-one app experience for all county services that empowers citizens to seamlessly pay for county government services and engage county leadership.
[Kenya] Fintech startup Hisa appoints Eric Jackson as new Hisa CEO
Kenyan fintech Hisa has announced the appointment of Eric Jackson as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Jackson takes over from Erick Asuma who recently stepped down from the position.
[Kenya] Airtel Money transaction limits also increased
Kenya’s second-largest telco Airtel has also announced that it has received approval from the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) to increase the daily transaction limits for its customers.
[Kenya] Safaricom increases M-PESA account and daily transaction limits
Kenya’s leading telco Safaricom is set to increase M-PESA daily transaction limits to KSh. 500,000 following approval from the Central Bank of Kenya. The higher account limit will be effective from Tuesday 15th August 2023 for all M-PESA customers.
[Kenya] IXAfrica Announces Deal with Tilisi to Establish Second Data Centre Campus in Nairobi
East African Hyperscale-ready data centres operator IXAfrica has partnered with Tilsi Developments to construct its second data centre campus in Nairobi, Kenya.
[Free Event] Experience the Future of Work with Monday.com
The future of work is here and you’re invited to lead the way! Join us for an exclusive monday.com experience event.
[Kenya] Paymentology and Boya simplify expenses for corporates with new partnership
Paymentology, a global issuer-processor has announced its partnership with Kenyan fintech Boya to simplify expenses for corporates in the country.
Paradigm Initiative Joins the National Coalition on Freedom of Expression and Content Moderation in Kenya
Paradigm Initiative (PIN), a leading pan-African Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) working to advance digital rights and digital inclusion, has joined the National Coalition on Freedom of Expression and Content Moderation in Kenya.
Britam, Airtel Money and Inclusivity Solutions partner to offer mobile insurance solutions for MSMEs
The partnership will enable customers to access three innovative insurance products through their mobile phones: Hospital Cash, Last Expense and Personal Accident covers or a combination of the three covers.
[Kenya] BasiGo introduces a 36-seater electric bus
Dubbed “E9 Kubwa”, BasiGo says the bus has been custom designed for the Kenyan market. The E9 Kubwa seats 36 passengers with the option of 18 standing passengers.
[Kenya] Michael Joseph resigns from Safaricom board
In a statement, Safaricom said Joseph was resigning to focus on “other ventures” including his current role as Chairman of Kenya Airways and being a director in various organizations.
Google introduces new privacy tool updates to protect user safety online
Google has announced updates of new privacy tools in Google Search to give its users more control of their personal information, privacy, and online safety.
Kenyan logistics startup Sendy reportedly shutting down
Sendy, the Kenya Fulfillment and logistics startup is reportedly up for sale. Techcabal reports that the startup is currently at an advanced stage with an unknown potential buyer and is hoping to make the official announcement soon.
[Kenya] Government visits Sama, commits to relook labour laws to foster job creation in the digital economy
In a site visit to Sama, the Government of Kenya, through the State Department for Industrialization, reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with industry stakeholders to address gaps in the country's labour laws that are hindering job creation in the burgeoning digital economy.
[Kenya] CA joins forces with Huawei and KCSFA to train young techies on cybersecurity skills
Over 200 young techies from different learning institutions across Nyanza region have benefitted from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) Cybersecurity Bootcamp and Hackathon series 2023 program held in Kisumu.
Mastercard, Lipa Later join forces to expand Buy Now, Pay Later solutions In Africa
Mastercard has announced a strategic partnership with Kenyan Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) company Lipa Later to accelerate the expansion of BNPL payment services in Africa.
[Kenya] Google and USAID partner to expand SMB growth
This collaboration aims to provide 2,500 Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs) with access to critical resources and digital tools to foster growth over 18 months.
Worldcoin responds to Kenya suspension, says it’s pausing its activities
Worldcoin Kenya Suspension: Worlcoin has responded to Wednesday’s decision by the Kenyan government to suspend its operations over security and privacy concerns.
[Kenya] Craft Silicon targets bank customers with a new Buy Now Pay Later product
Craft Silicon, a Kenyan software company behind Little app this week announced the launch of a new Get Now Pay Later (GNPL) product known as Spotit.
FedEx introduces sustainability insights tool to support customer emissions reporting in Africa
FedEx has launched a new tool, FedEx Sustainability Insights (FSI), giving customers in select African markets access to emissions information on their shipments within the FedEx network
[Kenya] Uber and Safaricom partner to launch M-PESA payments and disbursements
Ride-hailing app Uber has announced a new partnership with Safaricom that will now allow riders across Kenya to pay for trips via M-PESA. The company will also disburse payments to drivers on the platform via the mobile money service.
[Kenya] Government suspends crypto project Worldcoin activities
Less than a week after the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) called on Kenya to be vigilant with Worldcoin, the government has now suspended the crypto project’s activities.
[Kenya] Health-tech Zuri Health secures additional investment from Marula Square
Zuri Health has secured additional Investment from Marula Square, a venture capital firm investing in visionary entrepreneurs across Africa.
Nigeria trails South Africa and Kenya in Africa’s B2B payment revolution
Nigeria trails South Africa and Kenya in the development of key B2B payment processes across Africa, including the adoption of electronic bank transfers, speed of processing invoices and payment automation.
[Kenya] Data Commissioner calls for vigilance amid Worldcoin craze
As the Worldcoin craze continues to hit many parts of the country, The Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) has called on citizens to be vigilant with the platform.
Safaricom Shareholders approve two new subsidiaries to invest in Kenyan tech start-ups
These significant developments, approved at Safaricom’s 15th Annual General Meeting (AGM), represent a momentous step towards supporting tech entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and fortifying Safaricom's role as a key enabler of the Kenyan tech community.
AM Best affirms credit ratings of Kenya Reinsurance
The ratings reflect Kenya Re’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and weak enterprise risk management.
[Kenya] Safaricom, EDOMx to offer Faraja Buy Now Pay Later service for Lipa Na M-PESA businesses
Safaricom and EDOMx have partnered to launch Faraja, a service that will enable more than 32 million customers buy on credit from businesses on Lipa Na M-PESA.
[Kenya] Fntech firm Boya launches Virtual Visa cards for SMEs
The card was launched in partnership with VISA and Diamond Trust Bank and seeks to help businesses manage payments and expenses. with one virtual card solution.
Kenyan electric bus manufacturer BasiGo expanding to Rwanda
BasiGo which recently partnered with the Associated Vehicle Assemblers Ltd (AVA) to assemble its buses in Kenya is entering Rwanda with a new entity, BasiGo Rwanda Ltd.
Nigeria trails South Africa and Kenya in Africa’s B2B payment revolution, Duplo report
A new report from Duplo, a business payment platform for African businesses of all sizes, has revealed that Nigeria trails South Africa and Kenya in the development of key B2B payment processes across Africa, including adoption of electronic bank transfers, speed of processing invoices and payment automation
Agri-food MSEs influence food systems in Kenya, report
An estimated 60 per cent of rural and urban Kenyan households access their daily meals from micro/small enterprises (MSEs) at local markets.
[Kenya] Microsoft ADC completes upskilling for university lecturers
A group of university lecturers from various universities have graduated from a rigorous skilling and immersion program in teaching and research organized by the Microsoft Africa Development Centre.
[Kenya] Jumia and KFC expand food delivery services to secondary cities
Jumia Food has announced the expansion of its operations to Meru and Nanyuki. This is part of Jumia Food’s strategy to deepen its reach in secondary cities in Kenya.
Uber rolling out an audio recording feature for drivers and riders in Kenya for safety
Uber is finally rolling out an in-app audio recording feature to users in Kenya. Uber first rolled out the feature in Europe in 2021 in what it said was to better support riders and drivers who report safety incidents to Uber.
[Kenya] Zuri Health raises an undisclosed amount for funding from Five35 Ventures
Six months after raising an undisclosed amount of funding from Moroccan VC UM6P Ventures, Kenyan health-tech startup Zuri Health has yet again raised another undisclosed amount.
COLUMNS.
[Column] Ruth Njihia: Unleash your business potential with Google Cloud and Incentro Africa
In today's fast-paced world, data is the currency of success. Yet, many businesses across Africa face the daunting challenge of collecting, storing, analyzing, and visualizing their data effectively ...read full column here
[Column] Sandi de Souza: Why top-performing companies use AI to boost procurement
One Deloitte study found that high-performing procurement organisations are eighteen times more likely to have deployed AI capabilities than their lower-performing peers ...read full column here
[Column] Patrick Mweheire: Major investment drive sparks East African trade and development
East Africa is poised to unlock new pathways for trade, development and growth. This comes as businesses, regulators and banks find and drive new direct investment ...read full column here
INTERVIEWS.
[Interview] Vince Goncalves Regional Vice President Africa at ExecuJet MRO Services
ExecuJet MRO Services (ExecuJet) is a leading global multi-OEM MRO company with a strong presence around the world … read full interview here
[Interview] Caroline Mutuku, General Manager, Glovo, Kenya
n this interview, she discusses the outlook for the business environment, upcoming services, sustainability efforts, and more… read full interview here
[Interview] Renate Swanepoel, COO, INC. Networking
Renate Swanepoel is an entrepreneur, global networker and inspirational speaker that has helped thousands of people around the world to find their purpose … read full interview here