Author: Muindi

Unga Farm Care (EA) Ltd, a subsidiary of Unga Group Plc has commissioned a biomass boiler at its manufacturing facility in partnership with Lean Energy Solutions, a leading provider of renewable thermal energy solutions for industrial customers in Kenya, reducing reliance on imported diesel. The company expects to save the agricultural inputs producer about USD 1 million (KES 129 million) annually in foreign exchange, a major shift toward renewable energy and lower operating costs. Lower Costs, Greater Efficiency The investment replaces diesel‑powered thermal energy with renewable biomass, stabilizing energy costs and reducing exposure to fuel price volatility and currency fluctuations…

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Central Bank of Kenya has lowered the Central Bank Rate (CBR) by 25 basis points to 8.75 percent, down from 9.00 percent, following its meeting on February 10, 2026. Why the Cut Matters The MPC said the move reflects scope for further easing of monetary policy to stimulate private sector lending and support economic activity, while keeping inflation expectations anchored and the exchange rate stable. Kenya’s inflation eased to 4.4 percent in January 2026, below the midpoint of the target range of 5±2.5 percent. Stable food and energy prices, alongside exchange rate stability,…

Kenya’s economy is expected to strengthen in 2026, with growth projected at 5.3%, up from 4.9% in 2025, according to the Diamond Trust Bank (DTB) Economic Outlook 2026. The report highlights resilient domestic demand, easing financial conditions, and targeted government spending as key drivers of recovery. “The outlook for 2026 is broadly positive with improving momentum across sectors. Even then, execution of public projects, fiscal discipline and management of risks around government borrowing, climate shocks and global uncertainty, will be crucial to sustaining the momentum,” DTB Research noted. Global Backdrop: Slower Growth, Easier Monetary Policy Global GDP growth is forecast…

South Africa has confirmed it will withdraw its contingent of approximately 700 soldiers from the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO), ending more than two decades of peacekeeping involvement. In a statement issued on 8 February 2026, the Presidency said President Cyril Ramaphosa had formally notified UN Secretary-General António Guterres of the decision. The move was driven by the need to “consolidate and realign the resources of the South African National Defence Force” after 27 years of continuous deployment. “President Ramaphosa informed the Secretary-General of the government’s decision to withdraw its contribution of…

The Macallan, one of the world’s most renowned single malt Scotch whiskies, has launched its refreshed visual identity in Kenya, introducing the Timeless Collection. The redesign reimagines the Double Cask, Sherry Oak, and Colour Collections through the artistic lens of graphic designer David Carson, while preserving the brand’s heritage and distinctive flavour. Whisky Market Context In Kenya, whisky accounts for about 13% of all spirits consumed, according to IWSR industry research. Globally, single malt Scotch is part of a growing whisky category valued at over USD 10 billion in 2025, with premium segments driving demand as consumers increasingly trade up…

As lovers across the globe hunt for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift, sweethearts, across East Africa, central banks are raising alarm over a growing trend: the misuse of currency banknotes in decorative and celebratory displays. From cash bouquets to ornamental arrangements, these practices may look festive, but they carry serious consequences for the economy and the public. Why It Matters Banknotes are designed to serve as a medium of exchange, unit of account, and store of value. When folded, glued, taped, pinned, or stapled, their integrity is compromised. As the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) cautioned, such actions “interfere with…