Nairobi's property market currently faces a puzzling housing mismatch, where high demand coexists with significant supply issues. Despite ongoing development and a busy real estate market, many Nairobi residents struggle to find affordable, adequate housing that meets their needs. This mismatch highlights challenges in urban planning and economic pressures affecting the capital’s housing sector.

Kenya is modernizing its land surveying methods by adopting digital mapping and precision technology. Surveyors are moving away from traditional field reconnaissance to use digitized maps, enhancing accuracy in land measurement and helping to resolve long-standing boundary disputes. This shift promises faster and more reliable land registry processes across the country.

Equity Group Holdings' net profit for the first half of 2026 rose sharply by 32% to a record Sh43.8 billion. Meanwhile, Standard Chartered Bank Kenya faced a 16.8% decline in net profit, pressured by lower lending margins. This marks a contrasting financial performance within Kenya's banking sector during the same period.

Bar owners and entertainment industry stakeholders have petitioned Parliament to ensure broad public involvement in the Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill, 2024. They call for a nationwide platform where the public can contribute to discussions before the bill progresses. The petition highlights concerns that current engagement efforts may be insufficient and urges lawmakers to include all affected parties in the decision-making process.

A recent study highlighted by Prof Hiroyuki Hino warns that Kenya's efforts to bring small businesses into the formal tax system may unintentionally harm informal sector practices. Formalisation policies could disrupt established informal networks that many small traders rely on for survival. This raises concerns about the potential negative impact on livelihoods if the current approach continues without careful consideration of the informal economy's unique dynamics.

Kenya will host the Africa Blockchain Festival from October 15 to 17, 2026, in Nairobi. This event will gather global technology leaders, investors, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to discuss blockchain innovation and its impact across Africa. The festival represents a key moment for Kenya to showcase its growing technology sector and leadership in digital finance.

TVS Motor Company has introduced its iQube electric scooter in Kenya, targeting the growing urban demand for affordable and sustainable mobility solutions. With fuel prices climbing and lower operating costs, this move positions TVS to tap into the expanding electric two-wheeler market. The launch reflects increasing consumer interest in cost-effective alternatives for daily commuting across Kenyan cities.

Family Bank reported a 62% rise in half-year profit to Sh3.7 billion, signaling strong growth. Meanwhile, Absa Bank Kenya’s earnings declined by 10% to Sh10.5 billion, yet it increased its interim dividend to Sh2.72 billion. The contrasting performance highlights varied financial strategies and market conditions affecting Kenyan banks in 2026.

Kenya's paint sector is enjoying strong double-digit growth fueled by a rebound in construction activities. Growth drivers include new housing developments, property renovations, and increased demand for specialised paints, reflecting a broader recovery in Kenya’s construction market. This surge is opening opportunities across the supply chain, benefiting manufacturers and retailers alike.

Kenya's financial sector is embracing advanced digital technologies to improve credit assessment and lending processes. Lenders are increasingly using digital assets, alternative data, and cloud computing to provide more accurate credit scoring and expand access to loans. These innovations aim to make credit more accessible and affordable for Kenyans.

Kenya has been selected as the regional base for the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS), the largest professional body in procurement and supply worldwide. This move highlights Kenya's growing importance in the East African business landscape and recognizes its emerging role in procurement development.

Caetano Kenya is pushing into Kenya's Coast region, focusing on commercial truck sales. So far in 2026, the dealer has sold 32 vehicles in Q1 and plans to grow using flexible credit options alongside localized aftersales services. Their offering includes trucks from France and China, aiming to capture a larger market share in the competitive commercial segment.

Kenya’s tourism earnings rose sharply to Sh564 billion in the 2025/26 financial year, from Sh224 billion just four years earlier. The Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife attributes this growth to a surge in tourist arrivals, signaling a strong recovery and expansion in the sector. This boost highlights tourism’s critical role in Kenya’s economy and its potential for further growth.

Sanlam Allianz Holdings (Kenya) announced a significant increase in net profit, reaching Sh124.6 million for the half-year ended June 2026. This marks a fourfold rise compared to the same period last year. The growth demonstrates strong performance amid challenging market conditions, reinforcing Sanlam's position as a leading financial services provider in Kenya.

Kenya is increasing efforts to modernise its electricity grid to better accommodate growing renewable energy sources. This upgrade aims to enhance the grid’s capacity and reliability as renewable energy contributes a larger share to the national power supply. The move supports Kenya’s goal of cleaner energy and economic growth by ensuring an efficient, stable electricity system.

Business and investment leaders in East Africa are calling for urgent reforms to accelerate integration within the East African Community. They urge removal of trade and investment barriers that currently slow regional economic growth and hinder market access. Faster integration is seen as key to unlocking new trade opportunities and attracting investments across member countries.

Konza Technology City has partnered with Amazon to support Kenya’s digital transformation goals. The partnership aims to enhance digital infrastructure, boost technology skills development, and attract investments in emerging tech sectors. This move aligns with Kenya’s broader vision to become a regional tech hub by leveraging strategic collaborations to drive innovation and economic growth.

Kenyans planning trips for the August school holidays are advised to book flights early to avoid steep fare hikes and limited seat availability. Research highlighted by Standard Business reveals that peak travel periods push prices higher due to demand. Booking earlier offers significant savings and better travel options, helping holidaymakers stretch their budgets while accessing preferred flights.

The Kenya Institute of Supplies Management (KISM) has called for reforms to strengthen the legal framework governing procurement practices in Kenya. The focus is on enhancing accountability and oversight to curb mismanagement and corruption in public procurement. These reforms aim to promote transparency and professionalism within the procurement sector across the country.

Co-operative Bank of Kenya has announced an 18 billion shillings net profit for the first half of the year, representing a 28% increase from the previous period. This marks the bank’s strongest ever half-year performance, largely attributed to growth in its subsidiary businesses. The gains demonstrate resilience and effective diversification in a competitive banking sector.

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) have agreed to collaborate closely to fast-track cargo clearance at Mombasa Port. The move aims to reduce congestion and delays that have impacted the efficiency of the port's operations. This partnership is expected to streamline processes and enhance the flow of imported goods, helping ease pressure on the main gateway to East Africa.

A recent report by NAYA Kenya and UNFPA reveals that Kenya’s current tax policy keeps sanitary towel prices artificially high. The report urges the government to zero-rate menstrual products for VAT to improve affordability. This tax loophole has sustained costs for consumers, despite ongoing debates about menstrual health and access.

A Kenyan SME exploring export opportunities to Uganda encounters a common hurdle: the potential buyer requests proof of business registration and customer references before proceeding with a quotation. This reflects broader trust issues faced by Kenyan businesses in cross-border trade, where personal meetings are not always feasible.

The Kenyan Government has urged engineers to take a more significant role in the country’s economic planning, highlighting their importance in achieving sustainable development goals. This appeal positions engineering as central to national progress and the realization of Kenya’s long-term ambitions.

The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has kept the benchmark lending rate steady at 8.75% for the third consecutive review since February. This decision reflects optimism about Kenya's economic outlook, with no immediate need for monetary tightening. The move aims to support stable borrowing costs amid ongoing economic growth. Businesses and consumers can expect continued lending conditions under this steady rate.

Kenya Power has voiced worries about the growing contribution of solar and wind energy to the national grid, citing a negative impact on the quality of electricity supply. The utility says the intermittent nature of these renewable sources is challenging stable power delivery. As Kenya increases reliance on clean energy, balancing cost and reliability remains a critical issue for the country’s power sector.

Kenya's policy on taxing sanitary towels is under fresh review following a report by NAYA Kenya and UNFPA urging VAT zero-rating on menstrual hygiene products. The move aims to reduce the hidden tax burden that makes these essential items expensive and less accessible, especially for low-income women and girls. Advocates highlight that removing VAT could improve menstrual hygiene management and promote gender equality in access to basic health necessities.

Safaricom has launched the Pata More campaign in the Rift Valley region to offer its customers, particularly small-scale traders, better value across its products and services. The initiative aims to ease financial pressures faced by traders by providing more affordable options. This move follows Safaricom's ongoing commitment to support Kenya's business community by enhancing access to cost-effective digital tools.

Safaricom has introduced the 'Pata More' campaign in the Rift Valley region to help small-scale traders and other customers get better value across its products and services. The initiative aims to ease the financial burden on traders by enhancing affordability and access to Safaricom's offerings, supporting local businesses in the area.

The Nairobi High Court has temporarily halted the planned rise in licensing fees for betting firms and casinos. This ruling offers relief to gambling operators who faced higher operational costs under the proposed fee hike. The court’s decision comes amid concerns about the financial impact on the betting industry, which has been growing in Kenya. The freeze on new fees means current charges will remain in place while the matter is reviewed further.

Kenyan coffee auctions recorded a total of 637,444 bags traded in the past 10 months, generating revenue of Sh38.3 billion. This performance highlights sustained demand in the coffee sector, contributing significantly to the nation's agricultural earnings during the year so far.

Kenya’s economy has recorded strong growth recently, but many Kenyans have not experienced better living conditions. Challenges such as limited access to long-term financing, external economic pressures, and slow job creation are stopping the average citizen from benefiting. Despite robust economic indicators, these obstacles continue to widen the gap between macroeconomic success and personal financial security.

Kenya is focusing on reducing the mismatch between technical vocational education and training (TVET) graduates' skills and horticulture export industry demands. The government and industry players plan to strengthen collaboration with TVET institutions to tailor training programs to actual market needs. This initiative aims to equip graduates with relevant skills, boosting Kenya’s horticulture export sector and supporting economic growth through a more competent workforce.

Kenya's development plan beyond 2030 faces calls to focus on national benefits rather than political interests. Standard Business highlights the importance of evaluating the country's future growth strategy on its long-term value for all citizens. The debate signals a push for cohesive policy-making that advances economic progress and stability over short-term political gains.

Kenya is encouraged to move beyond partisan politics by evaluating ideas on their merit, a hallmark of mature democracies. Emphasizing long-term national development over political divides can help Kenya achieve sustainable growth and stability. This approach advocates for unity and constructive dialogue to foster economic progress and social cohesion.

A recent analysis by a Kenyan state think tank highlights risks associated with raising the Value Added Tax (VAT) rate. The report suggests that increasing VAT could drive more businesses into the informal sector, which often operates beyond regulatory oversight. Instead, lowering VAT rates is proposed as a potential strategy to stimulate economic growth by encouraging formal business activity. The findings underscore the delicate balance policymakers must strike between tax revenue and economic expansion, a key consideration for Kenya's business environment.

Global Credit Ratings (GCR) has reaffirmed Kenya Re's financial strength ratings at B and AA. These ratings reflect the company’s solid financial position and capacity to meet its obligations. GCR ratings are a key benchmark for insurers, reinsurers, brokers, and regulators across Africa, underscoring Kenya Re’s continued stability and reliability in the insurance sector.

KNCCI and Co-operative Bank have partnered to improve financial access for Kenyan small businesses, farmers, and cooperatives. Addressing the ongoing challenge of limited affordable trade finance, this initiative aims to unlock international market opportunities for thousands of MSMEs. The collaboration focuses on expanding credit facilities, enabling smaller enterprises to scale and compete globally.

A new smart solar inverter designed to enhance energy management and provide more reliable solar power has been launched targeting Kenyan households and businesses. This technology aims to reduce dependence on Kenya’s national grid by optimizing solar energy use, marking a key step in expanding clean energy access. The launch responds to growing demand for sustainable, efficient power solutions across the country.

Rwanda’s Mpazi redevelopment project successfully delivered nearly 800 homes by using land-sharing agreements, community consultations, and innovative financing methods. This contrasts sharply with Kenya’s ongoing challenges over the contested housing levy, which has faced public distrust and resistance. The Kigali approach prioritizes stakeholder engagement and transparent funding, providing a model for Kenya’s housing sector as it seeks to improve public trust and housing delivery.

Rising economic challenges are causing a slowdown in property and land prices across many of Nairobi's satellite towns. While most areas face declining values, a select few continue to experience modest growth according to recent market assessments. Property investors and homebuyers should approach satellite town markets with caution amid these mixed trends.

Rwanda’s affordable housing approach in Kigali emphasizes community participation, transparency, and sustainable funding, contrasting Kenya’s ongoing challenges with its housing programme. While Kenya faces issues of public trust and financing gaps, Kigali’s model shows the benefits of involving residents directly in housing development and maintaining open management of resources. This difference offers lessons for Kenya’s housing sector on how to improve credibility and project outcomes.

NCBA has introduced PropertyDuka, East Africa's first integrated property platform combining home search, financing, and related services in one ecosystem. The platform aims to make acquiring homes and investing in property easier and faster for Kenyans by streamlining access to listings and financial solutions.

NCBA has announced an interim dividend payout of Sh6.18 billion following a 12% increase in half-year profits. This financial performance is reported amid Nedbank's planned majority acquisition of NCBA, which is currently awaiting regulatory approval. The strong profit growth and dividend reflect NCBA's solid market position and ongoing business resilience.

Kenya Ports Authority is investing in reviving 13 ports around Lake Victoria, aiming to create a modern lake transport network. This development is expected to enhance regional trade, improve connectivity between communities, and boost local livelihoods through increased transport and business activities on the lake.

Kenyan creatives are positioning themselves to benefit from Africa’s growing film market, valued at $5 billion (Sh650 billion), following the expansion of a prominent Ugandan film awards ceremony to a continental scale. This move creates new opportunities for Kenyan filmmakers to gain recognition, access broader audiences, and increase earnings within Africa’s dynamic entertainment sector.

Corporate debtors often resemble everyday borrowers in Nairobi’s estates, differing mainly in the formality of their communication. Despite operating in high-level boardrooms, companies sometimes resort to informal excuses similar to those used by neighbours borrowing small sums. This insight, from a recent Standard Business analysis, highlights how corporate debt recovery in Kenya blends formal procedures with local street-level dynamics.

Mogo Kenya has injected more than Sh44 billion into the local economy over the past seven years. This investment has helped over 500,000 Kenyans gain access to productive assets, supporting livelihoods and economic empowerment. The financing firm continues to play a key role in expanding asset ownership across the country.