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Staff Writer

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Airtel Kenya has crossed the 24 million subscriber mark through its network campaign as expansion plans continue. This achievement, highlighted in the latest Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) sector statistics report, reflects growing public trust in Airtel’s commitment to serve all Kenyans, from urban centres to the most remote parts of the country. Speaking during the launch of the ‘Na Bado Tunagrow’ network coverage campaign, Airtel Kenya Managing Director Ashish Malhotra spoke on Airtel’s commitment to prioritising innovation to meet the changing needs of customers. “We are deeply humbled by the support of over 24 million customers who continue to believe in us. This is not the destination, it is part of a longer journey. We are committed to Kenya, and whilst we have made huge investments, our mission of enriching lives and driving progress is still not done,” said Airtel Kenya Managing Director, Ashish Malhotra. Over the years, Airtel has steadily and heavily invested in the country to better serve Kenyans. The investments span network, customer care touch points and distribution infrastructure. Through Airtel Money, the company has also endeavored to bridge the financial inclusion gap in the country with its financial services offerings. Courtesy of the rapid Airtel network expansion in the North Eastern region of the country last year, Kenyans in the underserved areas of Mandera, Wajir, and Garissa can now access connectivity and digital opportunities. “With the recent upgrade of our Airtel Money platform, which brings speedy, reliable, and innovative services, we are seeing more Kenyans trusting us with their financial needs and we continue to improve as we promote financial inclusion,” said Malhotra. The ‘Na Bado Tunagrow’ campaign is a reflection of Airtel’s ongoing journey driven by the trust of its customers and the belief that every Kenyan deserves access to reliable and modern digital services. “This is a thank you to every Kenyan who has supported our journey. We are not done. We will continue to grow, improve, and serve; Na bado tunagrow,” Malhotra concluded.
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OVER 450 MARSABIT HOUSEHOLDS TO BENEFIT FROM CLEAN WATER ACCESS THROUGH...

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Equity Group Foundation Board Member, Dr. Ruth Kagia plants a tree seedling during the 16th Annual Education and Leadership Congress held at Alliance Girls High School. Equity Group Foundation (EGF) is hosting the Annual Education and Leadership Congress for 4,404 Wings to Fly and Elimu scholars across the country, during the August school holidays, including 3,402 refugee scholars from Dadaab and Kakuma. The experience is designed to transform how scholars approach daily decisions, equipping them to generate meaningful change in their academic journeys, personal growth, and community impact. To date, 60,009 scholars, (22,009 Wings to Fly Scholarships and 38,000 Elimu) have benefited from these programs, receiving full scholarships and mentorship support throughout their secondary education journey.
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SCHOLARS FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY MENTORED ON INNOVATION AND LEADERSHIP AT...

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Sinotruk, known for its affordable quality trucks in the tipper and prime mover segments, is expanding its offerings by introducing light and medium duty vehicles aimed at strengthening its market dominance across the segment. The trucks which include the Sinotruck H2 (light duty) and H3 (medium duty) models are set to revolutionize the transportation industry. These models offer higher payload capacities and larger fuel tanks, reducing the need for frequent refueling and enabling longer hauls, which translates to overall fuel cost savings. Additionally, they are affordable with higher horsepower, delivering strong performance, with enhanced driver comfort and additional features such as air suspension seats and sleeper cabins. With proven reliability and long-term durability, these trucks stand out as leading options in the light and medium-duty truck categories. Speaking during the launch ceremony, Sinotruk General Manager, Mr. Sarfraz Premji said, “Investing in Sinotruck by CFAO for our customers means that they will be getting a truck that delivers everything that matters for their business, which is more power, efficiency, durability, comfort and supported by a trusted aftersales network across the country. The launch of these models will cater for both the last-mile delivery and the heavy load delivery in addition to long haulage.” The Sinotruck H2 light duty truck can carry a higher payload, provide drivers comfort and be fuel efficient. It is equipped with a 160-horesepower engine, a fuel tank capacity of 120 liters and a full air braking system. The vehicle is suitable for transporters, bakeries, FMCG distributors, flour millers’ wholesalers, exporters, manufacturers among others. On the other hand, the Sinotruck H3 medium duty truck can carry a bigger load capacity by having a reinforced double chassis which provides greater strength and rigidity that can operate in highly challenging environments. It also caters for the drivers’ comfort, especially for long-distance haulage and its ideal for sand harvesting, water bowsers, hardware stores, contractors, horticulture, construction among others. CFAO Mobility Managing Director, Arvinder Reel commented, “Transport and logistics costs in Kenya remain relatively high, driven largely by rising maintenance and fuel expenses leading to shrinking profit margins for businesses. Today, we deliver an unmatched value proposition as these trucks will deliver the best value in higher return on investment for your business.” “CFAO Mobility has consistently demonstrated a customer-centric approach by actively listening to feedback and delivering innovative solutions. This initiative aligns with both companies’ commitment to affordability, operational excellence, and improved service accessibility and customers can take advantage of its extensive branch network for spare parts and reliable after-sales support countrywide,” he added. CFAO Mobility, in partnership with Equity Bank, is making truck ownership more accessible to customers by offering up to 90% financing, a 60-month repayment period, a 60-day moratorium, and working capital of up to KShs 1 million. In addition, to further enhance value, the first 200 customers will receive a 1-year or 50,000 km free service package, underscoring CFAO Mobility’s strong after-sales commitment. Customers will also benefit from free driving training, ensuring the motorists are well-equipped to operate the vehicles safely and efficiently. Recently, Sinotruk International and Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers (KVM) signed a Memorandum of Understanding that marked the beginning of a strategic collaboration aimed at boosting the local assembly of Sinotruk vehicles in Kenya. The move is to significantly reduce delivery times, improve product availability, and enhance aftersales support for customers across Kenya.
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Sinotruk by CFAO introduces Affordable quality light and medium duty trucks

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High Court in Nairobi rejects Paradigm Initiative's bid to join Data Protection Case as Friend of Court
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High Court in Nairobi rejects Paradigm Initiative’s bid to join Data...

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Stanbic Holdings Plc (“the Company”) has posted a Profit After Tax (PAT) of KES 6.5 billion and delivered a return on equity of 17.4% in the half year ended 30th June 2025. Stanbic Holdings PLC’s performance for the period was underpinned by resilient non-interest revenue generation and lower credit impairment charges, which helped cushion the impact of a decline in net interest income. The listed lender, with operations in Kenya and South Sudan, noted that while year-on-year organic growth remained subdued, its continued focus on operational excellence and robust risk management enhanced its fortitude and strengthened its long-term growth outlook. During the period, Stanbic recorded a 9% increase in active clients, driven by the continued optimization of its products and digital platforms. This growth, coupled with targeted client support initiatives, strengthened the Bank’s credit position, contributing to a 4% expansion in the balance sheet from the December 2024 closing position. Speaking on the half-year performance, Dr Joshua Oigara stated, ‘’ The Kenyan economy remained stable amidst persistent headwinds. Nonetheless, some pressures persist as evidenced by sluggish private sector credit uptake, high fiscal deficits and geopolitical risks. Our focus in this period was largely on supporting our clients navigate shifting market conditions, while fortifying our growth through robust risk management, capital strength and well managed liquidity levels. We believe that our business will continue to demonstrate resilience and keep momentum even as the market continues to post recovery.’ During the reporting period, all four business lines demonstrated robustness and strategic execution. Corporate and Investment Banking played a key role in facilitating a new USD 1.5 billion Eurobond issuance, Tender Offer for the Republic of Kenya, reinforcing our leadership in sovereign advisory. Business and Commercial Banking continued to support the real economy, disbursing KES 16.4 billion in loans to SMEs across various sectors. Personal and Private Banking achieved a fourfold increase in scheme disbursements, reflecting growing client demand and effective distribution. We also made significant strides in digital banking, with the enhancement of our Omni Channel mobile app, introducing key features that drove active users beyond 100,000 mark. The Insurance and Asset Management business maintained positive momentum, with assets under management surpassing KES 4 billion (in nine months since launch), underscoring the strength of our diversified financial services offering. Notably, Stanbic Bank, the Company’s main subsidiary, was ranked among the top 5 banks in SME lending by the Kenya Banker’s Association, with the lender allocating capital to impact sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, and trade, delivering both returns and national development outcomes in the first half of the year. The Bank was also awarded the 2nd runners up on the Best Bank to Borrow from and Best Bank in Mortgage Finance at the Think Business Awards. Commenting on the performance, Dennis Musau, Chief Financial and Value Officer said, ‘’ Our H1 2025 results signal steady progress, anchored in a stable macroeconomic climate and recovering private sector credit growth. Commercial lending to the private sector grew by 2.0% in May, up from a contraction of 2.9% in January—signalling a rebound in demand alongside easing interest rates. We continue to refine our strategic focus, leveraging our core strengths to unlock long-term value and deliver sustainable returns for our shareholders in an evolving market landscape.’’ The Bank recorded an NPL ratio of 9.5%, which is below industry levels at 17.6%, and representative of a healthy asset book. ‘’ Credit quality is a priority for us, which is why we have adopted a proactive, data-led approach to managing risk. We have strengthened our credit assessment frameworks and developed sector-specific models that enable us to better anticipate and support clients during volatile cycles," Musau added. The Bank also reduced its lending rates by 180bps cumulatively in response to Kenya’s easing monetary policy stance. Financial Performance Summary: During the first half of 2025, Stanbic Holdings Plc delivered a robust performance amidst a dynamic operating environment, with key highlights as follows: Profit after tax declined by 9% to KES 6.5 billion, largely impacted by lower net interest income and elevated operating expenses, primarily due to prior year base effects. Trading revenue contracted by 7%, reflecting the impact of narrower margins in the current period. Customer numbers grew by 9%, driven by effective market positioning and continued investment in customer experience. Other non-interest revenue excluding trading revenue rose by 9%, supported by higher customer transaction volumes and a more diverse suite of product offerings. Operating expenses increased by 16%, attributable to 2024 base effects, driven by the appreciation of the Kenya Shilling as well as investments in long-term strategic initiatives. The cost-to-income ratio stood at 48.1%, reflecting a contraction in total income alongside elevated cost levels. Credit impairment charges decreased by 26%, underlining enhanced risk management practices and improved credit portfolio quality. Customer deposits closed at KES 330 billion, a 4% increase from December 2024, while loans and advances stood at KES 233 billion, representing a 1% growth over the same period. The NPL ratio remained at 9.5%, as the Bank continues to prioritize asset quality and proactive credit management. The Bank recorded a Return on Equity (ROE) of 17.37%, supported by active capital and liquidity management across the portfolio. Strengthening Impact and Delivering Value – H1 2025 Highlights Stanbic Bank continued to advance its sustainability agenda during the first half of 2025, directing funding and capacity-building efforts across four key impact areas: enterprise growth and job creation, infrastructure development and a just energy transition, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and financial inclusion. Key sustainability achievements include: Issuance of KES 4.5 billion towards green infrastructure projects Lending of KES 1.2 billion to support climate-smart agriculture Disbursement of KES 900 million under the affordable housing program enabling over 200 new homeowners Facilitation of KES 94.8 billion in trade loans, driving economic activity Planted 30k trees as part of climate change mitigation Through the Stanbic Kenya Foundation, the Group deepened its social impact via strategic partnerships with GIZ, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, American Tower Corporation, and Microsoft Corporation. These collaborations supported job creation, financial inclusion, and youth empowerment. Notably, the Foundation disbursed KES 24 million in catalytic loans to MSMEs and delivered financial literacy and entrepreneurship training to over 33,000 women entrepreneurs across Kenya. In recognition of this performance and commitment to shareholder returns, the Group has recommended an interim dividend of KES 3.80 per share, marking a 106.5% increase year-on-year.
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STANBIC POSTS PROFIT AFTER TAX (PAT) OF KES 6.5 BILLION, RAMPS...

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KCB Group PLC delivered strong financial results in the first half of 2025 driven by growth in earning assets, amid a difficult operating environment. The Group sustained its focus on deepening and leveraging regional scale to catalyse ongoing economic transformation and deliver value to shareholders, customers and other stakeholders. As a result, the Board of Directors has recommended an interim dividend of KShs.2.00 per share for the 2025 period and a further special dividend of KShs 2.00 per share (in relation to the sale of National Bank of Kenya). This means shareholders will get a payout of KShs.13 billion, the largest interim payment and first ever special dividend in the Bank’s history. Profit after tax grew 8% from KShs.29.9 billion to KShs.32.3 billion as all business franchises posted higher earnings, riding on customer-focused initiatives. Commentary from Group Chief Executive Officer Paul Russo “The business across markets remains resilient despite the tough operating environment in key markets like Kenya. Despite this, we have placed our customers at the fore, to ensure we meet their needs in a timely manner” said Paul Russo, the Group Chief Executive Officer during the release of the results on Wednesday. Subsidiaries outside KCB Bank Kenya continued to turn in stronger performance, with their profit before tax making up 33.4% of the overall Group earnings, and 31.4% of the balance sheet. PBT contribution from non-banking entities—KCB Investment Bank, KCB Asset Management and KCB Bancassurance Intermediary Limited was up to 2.1% from 1.8% a similar period last year. Total assets remained stable at KShs1.97 trillion, despite the sale of NBK in the second quarter of the year, demonstrating the Group’s capacity and capability to support its customers across the seven countries where KCB operates in.
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KCB Group Plc to Pay KShs.13B in Dividends as Net Profit...

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KCB Bank has signed agreements with 29 public and private universities to provide tailored financing and digital solutions aimed at supporting infrastructure development, operations, and financial access for staff, students, and suppliers. Click here to connect with us on WhatsApp The initiative will offer project finance, working capital, and digitized payment systems for institutions, alongside salary advances, mortgages, asset financing, and insurance products for teaching and non-teaching staff. Universities will also have access to green energy financing options such as solar power and biogas. Students will benefit from fee payment plans, digital banking tools, and a three-month internship programme targeting over 10,000 learners to boost practical skills and industry exposure. KCB says the programme will also extend credit and training to SMEs and suppliers linked to the universities, while surrounding communities will access enterprise development, environmental conservation projects, and scholarships through the KCB Foundation. The move comes as public universities grapple with funding shortfalls amid rising enrolment and infrastructure needs. Government data shows that most institutions face growing financial pressures, prompting calls for private sector partnerships to sustain the sector. According to Higher Education Principal Secretary Dr. Beatrice Inyangala, the collaboration aligns with government efforts to promote sustainable, inclusive, and digitally enabled higher education.
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KCB to offer tailored financing to universities

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Isuzu opens Sh3.1bn spare parts hub in Lukenya
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Isuzu opens Sh3.1bn spare parts hub in Lukenya

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Bezo’s firm Perplexity Ai in surprise bid for Google Chrome

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Pictorials: Equity Bank Group profits soar to KSHS. 34.6 BILLION

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