The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) has lost its bid to reinstate a KSh 52.1 million levy demand against Oxford University Press, after the High Court ruled against the standards agency in a landmark case.•The court ruled that while the law casts a wide net over what counts as manufacturing, the standards agency failed to prove the publisher actually carried out any of the activities that attract the charge.
Blog
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Kenya Bars Sugar Imports as Local Production Rebounds
Kenya has moved to shield its sugar industry from foreign competition after a rebound in domestic production left farmers unable to sell cane and millers struggling to clear growing stockpiles.•Agriculture Principal Secretary Kipronoh Ronoh has barred local sugar milling companies from importing sugar, saying domestic production has risen to a level capable of meeting national demand.
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Africa’s Cybersecurity Gap is Growing Faster Than its Defences
Africa's greatest cybersecurity risk is not simply the growing number of attacks but also a persistent – and growing – gap between digital expansion and institutional preparedness. Writes Dr Jannie Zaaiman, Secretary General, Technology Information Confederation Africa (TICON Africa).Africa is rapidly expanding mobile financial services, digital government platforms, cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), e-commerce and cross-border trade, connecting more citizens with public and private sector services.
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Africa’s Electricity Demand Set to Record World’s Fastest Growth in 2026
Africa's sustained growth in electricity demand comes despite volatility in global energy markets and elevated electricity generation costs resulting from higher fuel prices. Writes Ossama El-Khattib, Export Sales Director, El Sewedy Electric Industries, Egypt.According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), Africa is projected to register the fastest growth in electricity demand worldwide in 2026, driven by expanding electricity access for millions of people, rapid industrialization, accelerating urbanization, and sustained economic development across the continent.
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Kenya Moves to Merge Investment Zone Agencies
A proposed legislation before the National Assembly would fold Kenya's two investment-zone regimes into a single authority, though its most consequential feature is not the merger but a wide gap in how much of what these zones produce can now be sold to ordinary Kenyans.•The Kenya Economic Zones Bill seeks to dissolve the Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA) and the Special Economic Zones Authority (SEZA), replacing both with a single Kenya Economic Zones Authority.
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What the Gulf Oil Rollercoaster Means for Your Pocket and Your Portfolio
As the Gulf war escalates after the ceasefire between the US and Iran failed, businesses and households should plan for the possibility that Kenya's frozen pump prices are a temporary calm, not a new normal. Writes Rufas Kamau, Regional Market Analyst, FXPesa.Kenyan motorists have had a strange kind of luck this year.
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Multinationals, Tier One Banks Slash Borrowing Costs as Small Banks Hold High Ground
Average commercial bank lending rates in Kenya maintained a downward trajectory through June 2026, dropping to 14.38% from 14.49% in May, according to the latest interest rate data released by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK).•The data reveals a stark divergence in credit pricing strategies across tier-one institutions and smaller lenders, highlighting how individual bank liquidity and risk appetites are shaping credit market dynamics.
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Mercy Masai Celebrates New SUV Purchase With Prayer as She Reflects on Her Journey From Nkama Village
Kenyan influencer, philanthropist and aspiring Kajiado Woman Representative candidate Mercy Masai has captured the attention of her supporters after celebrating the purchase of a brand-new SUV. The community activist shared photos and a video showing family members and close friends gathered around the vehicle in prayer, expressing gratitude for what she described as a blessing from God. Her heartfelt social media post quickly attracted thousands of reactions, with followers congratulating her on reaching another important milestone. Many supporters also viewed the moment as a symbol of how determination, faith and hard work can transform lives. The celebration has sparked conversations about her personal journey and growing influence as she prepares for the 2027 General Election.
In the post shared on Facebook on July 26, Mercy Masai described the occasion as a moment of deep thanksgiving. The images showed the bonnet of the new SUV open as those present prayed over the vehicle before it hit the road. Rather than focusing solely on the material achievement, Mercy emphasized the importance of acknowledging God’s role in her journey. She expressed overwhelming gratitude, saying that God had continually shown up in her life in ways that exceeded her expectations. Her message resonated with many followers who admired both her faith and her humility despite her growing public profile.
What made Mercy’s announcement especially meaningful was her decision to reflect on where her journey began. She reminded her followers that she grew up in Nkama, a small village in Oloitoktok, Kajiado County, where life was far from easy. According to Mercy, remembering her humble beginnings helps her remain grounded regardless of the success she achieves today. She described herself as a village girl who never imagined receiving such blessings but who has witnessed remarkable opportunities through faith, perseverance and hard work. Her story inspired many people who saw it as proof that one’s background does not determine one’s future.
Mercy’s message also carried a powerful reminder about treating others with respect regardless of their current circumstances. She encouraged people never to underestimate anyone simply because of where they come from or the challenges they face. Her statement reflected a belief that every individual has the potential to achieve greatness when given opportunities and supported by determination. Many followers praised this part of her message, saying it encouraged hope for young people growing up in rural communities across Kenya. Her reflections reinforced the idea that success is often built through resilience rather than privilege.
Beyond her role as a social media influencer, Mercy Masai has earned recognition through her work as a community activist and trained psychologist. She is the founder of the Mercy Mission Foundation, a community-based organization dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable children and young girls. Through the foundation, she has been actively involved in campaigns against female genital mutilation while supporting girls through education initiatives. The organization also provides sanitary towels, school uniforms and other essential supplies to children living in rescue centers and disadvantaged communities. Her charitable work has established her as a respected advocate for education, child protection and women’s empowerment.
Supporters believe Mercy’s commitment to community service has strengthened her reputation beyond social media. Over the years, she has consistently used her platform to highlight issues affecting marginalized communities while encouraging collective action to create positive change. Her philanthropic efforts have earned praise from many Kenyans who appreciate leaders that remain connected to grassroots challenges. As a result, her growing popularity extends beyond her online influence and into community development initiatives that have directly impacted many families. This combination of activism and public engagement continues to shape her image as a leader focused on service.
The timing of the SUV announcement has also attracted attention because of Mercy’s political ambitions. She has expressed her intention to contest for the Kajiado Woman Representative seat in the 2027 General Election, and many supporters see her latest milestone as another step in her personal and professional growth. Her comments section quickly filled with congratulatory messages, with numerous followers referring to her as “Mheshimiwa,” a title commonly used for elected leaders in Kenya. Others wished her success in her political journey, expressing confidence that her experience in community service would serve her well in public office. The overwhelming response reflected the strong connection she has built with many Kenyans through both her charitable work and public engagement.
Social media has become an important platform for public figures to share personal milestones while connecting with their supporters on a deeper level. Mercy’s decision to publicly celebrate her new vehicle through prayer rather than focusing only on luxury appealed to many people who value gratitude and faith. The moment highlighted how achievements can also serve as opportunities to inspire others rather than simply showcase success. Her story encouraged conversations about perseverance, humility and the importance of acknowledging those who have supported one’s journey. For many followers, the SUV became more than just a vehicle because it represented years of dedication and determination.
Mercy Masai’s latest milestone reflects a journey marked by resilience, service and unwavering faith. From her humble upbringing in Nkama village to becoming a respected philanthropist, influencer and aspiring political leader, she continues to demonstrate that success can be achieved through commitment to both personal growth and community development. Her heartfelt celebration of acquiring a new SUV resonated with thousands of Kenyans because it combined gratitude with an inspiring reminder never to look down on anyone based on their circumstances. As she continues expanding the impact of the Mercy Mission Foundation while preparing for her 2027 political bid, Mercy remains committed to using her platform to uplift others. Her story continues to inspire many people who believe that with faith, hard work and compassion, even the most modest beginnings can lead to extraordinary achievements.
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Africa’s Farmers Are Not Unbankable
Africa’s farmers do not need to be made bankable. They are already productive economic actors. What they need are financial systems intelligent enough to see them. Writes Abraham Nyabera, Co-founder, FarmFuzion.Africa’s farmers power one of the continent’s most important industries, yet remain among its least adequately financed participants.
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Daniel Ngumy Re-elected as ALN Kenya Managing Partner, Ensuring Continued Leadership Stability
Nairobi Tuesday 28 July 2026: We are delighted to announce the re-election of Daniel Ngumy as ALN Kenya | Anjarwalla & Khanna Managing Partner with effect from 1 August 2026.ALN Kenya has been led jointly by Rosa Nduati-Mutero and Daniel Ngumy since 2022. Rosa took the considered decision not to seek re-election for a second term as Co-Managing Partner.
