Kenya–UK trade hits record Sh360 billion

By

-

February 5, 2026

Bilateral trade between Kenya and the United Kingdom reached Sh360 billion in the third quarter of 2025, sustaining the highest level ever recorded for the second consecutive quarter.

Kenya’s exports to the UK in Q3 were dominated by tea, coffee, and horticultural products, which accounted for nearly 70 percent of total exports.

On the hand, imports from the UK included refined petroleum, vehicles, machinery, and power generation equipment.

The record trade figures followed the first UK–Kenya Business Forum in Nairobi on January 22, which brought together more than 200 businesses and nearly 400 participants to discuss investment opportunities and strengthen commercial links.

Key outcomes included the signing of MoUs to expand agri-tech supply chains, the launch of the Climate Finance Accelerator to support green investments, and accelerated technical discussions on a Digital Trade Agreement.

“Sustaining over £2.1 billion in trade for a second consecutive quarter underscores the growing confidence of UK businesses in Kenya as a trade and investment partner. The Economic Partnership Agreement continues to secure predictable market access for Kenyan exports, supporting jobs and value-added trade,” said Trade and Investment Cabinet Secretary Lee Kinyanjui.

Trade data for Q3 shows Kenyan exports to the UK rose 12 per cent compared with the previous quarter, while UK exports to Kenya increased by 4.5 per cent.

Despite the growth, the export mix remains heavily reliant on agricultural commodities, a pattern that exposes Kenya to price volatility and limits gains from higher-value manufacturing sectors.

Further, while the UK–Kenya Business Forum identified new investment opportunities, sustaining growth will require structural reforms, including diversification of Kenya’s export base and increased local value addition.

Initiatives such as liberalizing the insurance market and enabling partnerships between British and Kenyan firms are expected to expand the scope of trade, but the underlying imbalance remains a strategic challenge for Nairobi’s economic planners.

“These record trade figures reflect the energy at the inaugural Business Forum. We are committed to removing barriers and deepening supply chain links so that both UK and Kenyan businesses can benefit,” UK Chargé d’Affaires Ed Barnett added.

Guardiola wants permission for Guehi to play in League Cup final

By

John Mutiso

-

February 5, 2026

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola will ask the Football League for permission to play Marc Guehi in the League Cup final against Arsenal even though the England defender is ineligible for the Wembley showdown.

Guehi, signed from Crystal Palace in January, was forced to watch from the sidelines as City beat Newcastle 3-1 in the semi-final second leg on Wednesday.

City’s 5-1 aggregate victory set up a date with the Premier League leaders Arsenal in the final on March 22, but Guehi is not currently allowed to feature in the showpiece.

Unlike Antoine Semenyo, who also arrived at City in January from Bournemouth, Guehi is ineligible to play in the League Cup this season because the centre-back joined after the first leg against Newcastle took place.

Guardiola acknowledged he did not expect City to be successful in their plea.

But the Spaniard, aware of his team’s defensive issues this season and the threat posed by Arsenal, plans to make the case for Guehi’s inclusion regardless.

“Why should he not play? Why not?” Guardiola said. “He’s our player, we pay his salary, we hired him.

“We want to ask. I said to the club we have to ask definitely. I don’t understand the reason why he cannot play in the final of the League Cup in March when he has been here a long time.”

“Of course we are going to ask because it’s pure logic. But to change the rule, no way. But we will try,” added the coach.

Omar Marmoush was the star for City as the Egypt forward scored the opening two goals before Tijjani Reijnders added the third before half-time.

Anthony Elanga’s 62nd-minute reply for Newcastle came after City had taken their foot off the gas.

City are back in the League Cup final for the first time since 2021 as they look to win the competition for the fifth time in the Guardiola era.

Trailing six points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal after a frustrating 2-2 draw at Tottenham last weekend, City’s progress to Wembley was a welcome boost for Guardiola.

“I do not take it for granted,” Guardiola said. “I know how difficult it is.

“I don’t know how many semi-finals and finals we have played in the FA Cup but it’s really good, and in 10 years five League Cup finals so it’s really good: top, top, top.”

Marmoush grabbed his chance to impress against the Magpies after Erling Haaland was reduced to a substitute role following a disappointing recent run for the Norway striker.

“He gives us a special quality,” Guardiola said of the Egyptian. “His pace, his moments in behind, and his work ethic.”

Newcastle’s reign as League Cup holders is over after a pair of error-strewn performances over the two legs left boss Eddie Howe fuming.

“Really annoyed with the first half display,” Howe said. “We pride ourselves on being really organised and tactically we want to be able to handle any problem the opposition gives us.

“That first half we weren’t good enough individually and our duels were off and it gave us huge problems.”

Ruto says government is delivering on its plan

By

John Mutiso

-

February 5, 2026

President William Ruto has challenged the Kenyan youths to take advantage of the programmes that the government is rolling out across the country, saying his government is delivering on the promises it made during the campaigns.

Speaking during the NYOTA Project Business Start-Up Capital Disbursement Forum for 5,040 young entrepreneurs drawn from 60 wards in Lamu, Kilifi, and Tana River Counties in Buntwani Waterfront Park, Malindi, Kilifi County, President Ruto reiterated that his government is keen in uplifting the disadvantaged youths who did not progress in their studies.

A total of Sh252 million has been disbursed to the 5,040 young entrepreneurs drawn from 60 wards across the three counties: Kilifi (35 Wards), Tana River (15 wards) and Lamu (10 wards).

In the first phase of the project, each beneficiary will receive Sh25,000; Sh22,000 credited directly to support their business operations and Sh3,000 deposited into a Haba na Haba Savings Account managed by the National Social Security Fund (NSSF).

In the second phase, beneficiaries will receive an additional Sh25,000, bringing the total start-up capital support to Sh50,000 per young entrepreneur.

The President reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to empowering the young people by creating employment opportunities and equipping youths with skills to grow businesses and access contracts, saying the programme will enable them become job creators and strengthen the country’s workforce through skills development.

Deputy President Prof Kithure Kindiki highlighted major programmes being undertaken by government including affordable housing, digital jobs, overseas opportunities saying it is bridging the employment gap in the country.

Kindiki lauded the President for his government decision to waive PAYE for low-income earners saying it will be a big relief for the workers.

IEBC appoints Moses Ledama Sunkuli as acting CEO after Marjan’s exit

By

John Mutiso

-

February 5, 2026

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) Thursday appointed Moses Ledama Sunkuli as its Acting Chief Executive Officer and Commission Secretary with immediate effect.

In a statement on Wednesday, IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon said the appointment follows the exit of the former Chief Executive Officer Marjan Hussein and is aimed at ensuring continuity in the Commission’s operations.

Sunkuli currently serves as the IEBC’s Director of Electoral Operations and brings with him extensive experience as well as deep institutional knowledge of the Commission’s processes.

He will serve in an acting capacity for a period of six months or until the recruitment and appointment of a substantive Chief Executive Officer and Commission Secretary is concluded.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to fast-tracking the recruitment process while ensuring a seamless transition and maintaining high standards of service delivery to the Kenyan people.

The position fell vacant after Marjan Hussein Marjan resigned after a mutual agreement to terminate his services.

IEBC Chairperson Erastus Ethekon expressed appreciation for Marjan’s contributions since his appointment in March 2022, noting his leadership during a period when the Commission operated without fully constituted Commissioners until July 2025.

“We thank Mr. Marjan for his dedication and professional service to the IEBC and wish him well in his future endeavours,” Ethekon added.

Marjan stepped down after mounting pressure from opposition parties demanding his exit ahead of the next General Election. Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka warned that the upcoming election might not be free and fair if Marjan remained in office.

IEBC noted that Sunkuli brings extensive experience and internal institutional knowledge to the role.

CS Mutua reveals how Kenyans are being smuggled to fight for Russia

By

John Mutiso

-

February 5, 2026

Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua has raised concerns over rising cases of Kenyans being lured into unsafe or illegal jobs abroad, including reports involving recruitment to countries such as Russia.

CS for Labour and Social Protection Dr Alfred Mutua. [File Courtesy]

Speaking during the NYOTA Capital disbursement led by President William Ruto in Malindi, Kilifi County, on Thursday, February 5, CS Mutua warned job seekers to verify all overseas opportunities through the government’s official labour migration channels to avoid falling victim to rogue agents and trafficking networks.

Over the past months, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has recorded an increase in complaints from Kenyans who travelled abroad under questionable arrangements, including some who used the wrong visa categories or were misled about the nature of the work awaiting them.

“If that agency or the job opportunity is not on the website, know that you are being duped. If you cannot do it through the website just dial 08002222223 for free you will communicate with an agent who will ask you questions, they will confirm if the agents are rogue,” Mutua said.

Mutua cautioned that some recruiters are fraudulently sending Kenyans abroad on visitor or tourist visas instead of proper work permits, leaving them vulnerable upon arrival in foreign countries.

The CS further revealed worrying cases involving young Kenyans being recruited into foreign conflicts or disappearing after travelling overseas under unclear circumstances.

“We have Kenyans who have been taken to foreign countries using visitors’ visas. People here from Malindi who are abroad went on employment visas. Those giving out tourist and visitors visas are rogue agents,” he said.

“We have young people being taken to foreign countries to fight for foreign countries. Others are going and go missing there.”

Mutua’s remarks come amid mounting concern over Kenyans being recruited into Russia’s war against Ukraine.

In November 2025, Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi said about 200 Kenyans were known to be fighting for Russia and warned that recruitment networks remained active in both Kenya and Russia.

Among those recruited were reportedly former members of Kenya’s security forces. Some rescued Kenyans said they were forced to assemble drones and handle chemicals without proper training or protective gear.

President Ruto has since asked the Ukrainian government to facilitate the release of Kenyans detained in the conflict zone.

Ukrainian authorities estimate that about 1,400 citizens from across Africa are fighting alongside Russian forces, many recruited through deception.

Kenya’s embassy in Moscow has also recorded injuries among some recruits, who were allegedly promised up to $18,000 to cover visas, travel, and accommodation.

Mudavadi warned that some Kenyans abroad are being drawn into forced criminal activities such as drug trafficking and forced labour.

“These crimes present a serious threat not only to the national security of Kenya but to global security as well,” he said.

In September, Kenyan authorities rescued more than 20 nationals preparing to join the war near Nairobi, while a suspected recruitment coordinator was arrested and is facing prosecution.

Treasury opens car loan applications for civil servants

By

John Mutiso

-

February 5, 2026

The Ministry of Treasury and National Planning has invited all civil servants to apply for car loans under the Motor Car Loan Scheme Fund.

In a statement released on Thursday, February 5, the Treasury explained that all state and public officers, irrespective of their job group, were eligible for the car loan.

It explained that the purpose of the scheme was to enable eligible officers to access affordable motor vehicle financing to support safe, reliable mobility, reduce personal financial strain, and enhance efficiency and effectiveness in public service delivery.

The National Treasury disclosed that the loans under the Motor Car Loan Scheme Fund attracted very low interest.

“All financing under the scheme attracts a concessional interest rate of 4% per annum on a reducing balance, making it significantly more affordable than commercial alternatives,” the statement read in part.

PHOTO | COURTESY An image of details on the Motor Car Loan Scheme shared by the National Treasury.

The Ministry listed the loan limits for each job group as follows:

• Up to KSh 5 million – Chief Executive Officers of Government Agencies/Organs

• Up to KSh 4 million – Civil Service Grades S, T, U and equivalent

• Up to KSh 3 million– Civil Service Grades P, Q, R and equivalent

• Up to KSh 1.5 million – Civil Service Grades K, L, M, N and equivalent

• Up to KSh 800,000 – Civil Service Grades G, H, J and equivalent

• Up to KSh 600,000 – Civil Service Grades A, B, C, D, E, F and equivalent.

A Ksh1,000 non-refundable fee will be charged for all applications. Successful applicants will make repayments by the 10th of every month.

The Ministry guaranteed a transparent application process and asked applicants to follow the application process.

The State Officers and Civil Servants Car Loan Scheme Fund was established vide Legal Notice 195 of 25th September 2015 under the Public Finance Management Act (No. 18 of 2012).

How to Apply

1. Visit the Treasury website: treasury.go.ke

2. Click on the ‘Information and Services’ tab

3. On the drop-down list, select ‘Motor Car Loan Scheme Fund’

4. Click ‘Downloads’ to display a list which contains guidelines, car tracking companies, the application form and a loan checklist.

5. To view each form, right-click and select ‘Open in a new tab’.

6. Download and fill out the required forms and submit it to the Treasury

KTDA Issues update on Tea Payment for Nyamira Tea Farmers

By

John Mutiso

-

February 5, 2026

The Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) has issued an update to tea farmers in Nyamira County regarding green leaf payments.

In a notice on Thursday, February 5, KTDA confirmed that current rates will remain unchanged following a review of the factories’ financial performance.

“Tea factories in Zone 10, Nyamira County, will maintain the current monthly green leaf payment rate of Ksh24 per kilogram after reviewing their current financial status,” the notice read.

KTDA explained that the decision was influenced by difficult market conditions that negatively affected factory revenues over the past financial year.

“The factories in the county realised low tea absorption and prices in the 2024/2025 financial year which negatively affected their cash flows,” the notice added.

KTDA noted that factory boards had also observed a decline in the volume of green leaf delivered by farmers and urged continued supply in anticipation of better returns.

While confirming the status quo on payments, factory leadership indicated that the rate is not fixed permanently and could change once conditions improve.

“The boards of the five factories, Nyansiongo, Nyankoba,Sanganyi, Kiberigo and Gianchore also noted a reduction in green leaf deliveries and encouraged farmers to continue supplying tea to benefit from improved returns expected in the coming months.

“While the current payment rate will remain in place for now, factory leadership indicated that the rate will be reviewed once the financial position improves,” the notice further read.

KTDA further highlighted the role of quality in boosting earnings, calling on farmers to adhere to best harvesting standards to support stronger auction outcomes.

“Factory leaders further called on farmers to uphold good plucking practices to enhance tea quality and improve auction prices as efforts continue to improve overall factory performance,” the notice concluded.

Machakos Senator Agnes Kavindu’s Only Son Moses Muthama Dies

By

John Mutiso

-

February 5, 2026

Machakos Senator Agnes Kavindu and Parliamentary Service Commission member Johnson Muthama are mourning the death of their son, Moses Nduya Muthama, who died on Wednesday evening after collapsing at his home.

Family members said Moses was rushed to a nearby medical facility following the collapse, but medical efforts to save his life were unsuccessful.

His death comes after the family previously lost a daughter, Janet Njoki, who died in 2022.

Leaders from across the political divide have sent messages of condolence to the family. Kitui Senator Enock Wambua expressed his sympathies to Kavindu and her family, offering prayers and support during what he described as a difficult period.

Machakos Governor Wavinya Ndeti also conveyed her condolences, noting that Moses had been appointed Director of Administration in the county government in 2024.

She acknowledged his service and said the county administration would stand with the family during the mourning period.

Several leaders and colleagues remembered Moses for his personal character. Local politician Chris Muthini described him as humble and approachable, while ODM communications director Philip Etale said he was easy-going and well liked by those who knew him.

Dualling Project Cuts Traffic at Mariakani Weighbridge

By

Editor

-

February 5, 2026

Traffic congestion at the Mariakani weighbridge has significantly reduced following the dualling of the Northern Corridor road from the Port of Mombasa, the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has revealed.

Speaking during a press briefing, Victor Kithome, the External Auditor for Ebenezer Commercial Works, said the road dualling project has greatly improved traffic flow along the busy corridor.

“From the Port of Mombasa along the Northern Corridor, KeNHA has completed road dualling up to Mariakani, and the project is now more than 80 per cent complete,” Kithome said.

He noted that the improved road infrastructure has played a major role in easing congestion that previously affected the area.

In addition, the introduction of a high-speed weigh-in-motion system at the Mariakani weighbridge has further reduced traffic snarl-ups. Unlike before, when trucks experienced long delays due to slow weighing processes, vehicles are now able to move smoothly through the station.

The combined impact of the road dualling project and modern weighing technology has enhanced efficiency along the Northern Corridor, a key transport route linking the Port of Mombasa to inland destinations.

Concerns Mount Over Transparency of Safaricom Privatization Funds

By

Editor

-

February 5, 2026

In early 2026, public debate in Kenya has intensified over the government’s plan to sell a 15% stake in Safaricom to Vodacom Group, with residents and political leaders expressing fears that the KSh 245 billion proceeds could be mismanaged or “lost”.

Some leaders have warned against the sale by citing the collapse of other state-linked entities like Mumias Sugar, suggesting that divesting from profitable national assets could lead to similar long-term losses.

Opposition leaders and some residents have accused the National Treasury of a lack of transparency, specifically regarding the “negotiated block trade” approach rather than a public-market offering.

Allegations have surfaced that the KSh 34 per share price tag may undervalue the company’s long-term potential, despite the government’s claim that this represents a 20.6% premium over recent market closes.

Concerns have been raised that the state is forfeiting significant future dividends in exchange for a one-time “windfall” to plug current budget deficits.

Treasury CS John Mbadi has moved to calm these fears, vowing that the proceeds will be used productively for development projects rather than recurrent expenditure.

Both the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) and the Capital Markets Authority have backed the sale, assuring the public that the transaction will not threaten the country’s financial stability.

Following significant uproar, the National Assembly initiated public hearings in late January 2026 to allow Kenyans to weigh in on the divestiture plan.

Officials emphasize that even after the sale, the government will retain a 20% stake, ensuring it remains a significant shareholder with a say in the company’s operations.

Anthony Solly

Create a free account, or log in.

Upgrade your subscription