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The National Oil Corporation of Kenya Ltd (NOC) has entered into a strategic partnership with RUBiS Energy Kenya, marking a significant milestone in the enhancement of Kenya's oil and gas sector. This collaboration follows the successful completion of the Specially Permitted Procurement Procedure (SPPP) for a non-equity strategic partner, in compliance with the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act, 2015 (PPADA). During the signing of the agreement, Hon. Opiyo Wandayi, Cabinet Secretary for Energy and Petroleum, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "This collaboration marks a transformative step in strengthening the National Oil Corporation of Kenya, enhancing its capacity and creating long-term value for the citizens of this great republic. With this renewed profitability, the Corporation will be well-positioned to generate returns and, in the future, begin paying dividends to its shareholder." Leparan Ole Morintat, CEO & Managing Director of NOC, highlighted the industry's challenges, noting, " “This sector is highly complex and capital-intensive, requiring substantial investment and operational flexibility to stay competitive. Given the significant demand for government resources, securing shareholder capital injection was not feasible. As a result, NOC sought a non-equity strategic partner to provide the financial support and technical expertise needed to revitalize the company and restore profitability. This process, initiated in 2019, has now culminated in the selection of RUBiS Energy Kenya as our non-equity strategic partner.” The partnership is a key component of NOC’s broader turnaround strategy, which aims to scale up its downstream operations and strengthen its position in the petroleum products trading and marketing space. NOC’s turnaround plan is designed to ensure security of petroleum supply, stabilize fuel prices, and reduce the cost of living and doing business in Kenya. The partnership will also aid in clearing legacy debts and improving financial sustainability. As a non-equity strategic partner, RUBiS Energy Kenya will provide financial support, working capital financing, market development initiatives, and capital expenditure (CAPEX) financing for rebranding, rehabilitation, and expansion of NOC’s retail network. The partnership also encompasses training, capacity building, skills transfer for NOC staff, the deployment of a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to improve business processes and customer experience, and collaboration in the fuel card business to enhance customer engagement and service delivery. Olivier Sabrié, CEO of RUBiS Energie East Africa and Managing Director of RUBiS Energy Kenya, emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships, stating, “In today’s dynamic market environment, collaborations are key to driving growth and success. By leveraging diverse expertise, resources, and networks, we can create a competitive edge and generate value for all stakeholders involved. RUBiS Energy Kenya is committed to supporting the Corporation through working capital financing, management and branding support, and transferring critical capabilities and skills to the National Oil team.”

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By Amos Wachira As we navigate an era of economic uncertainty and widening inequality, microfinance continues to stand as a beacon of hope for millions around the world. This issue of Business insights Africa Magazine delves into the transformative power of small-scale financial services, showcasing how access to credit, savings, and insurance can uplift individuals, families, and entire communities. Microfinance is more than just loans—it’s a tool for empowerment. For low-income entrepreneurs, especially women, a small loan can mean the difference between subsistence and self-sufficiency. It enables a seamstress to buy her own sewing machine, a farmer to purchase better seeds, or a street vendor to expand her inventory. These seemingly modest investments create ripple effects, fostering local economies and breaking cycles of poverty. In this edition, we highlight inspiring stories of borrowers who have turned microloans into thriving businesses, proving that financial inclusion is key to sustainable development. Yet, the microfinance sector is not without its challenges. High interest rates, over-indebtedness, and regulatory hurdles remain pressing concerns. Critics argue that some institutions prioritize profits over social impact, risking the very mission they were founded to serve. We examine these issues head-on, featuring Dr. Patrick Gthondu, chief Executive of Bimas Kenya on responsible lending practices and the evolving role of fintech in making microfinance more transparent and accessible. One of the most exciting developments in recent years is the fusion of microfinance with digital technology. Mobile banking, blockchain, and AI-driven credit scoring are revolutionizing how financial services reach the unbanked. In our cover story, we explore how fintech startups like SasaPay are bridging gaps left by traditional institutions, particularly in remote and underserved regions. These innovations are not just changing microfinance—they’re redefining financial inclusion altogether. As we look to the future, the potential for microfinance to drive social change has never been greater. Climate resilience loans, education financing, and health-related microinsurance are emerging as critical tools in addressing global challenges. We must continue to advocate for ethical practices, investor accountability, and policies that prioritize the underserved. At Business Insights Africa, we believe that finance, when wielded with purpose, can be a force for good. Whether you’re an investor, practitioner, or simply someone passionate about economic justice, we invite you to engage with these stories, share your insights, and join the conversation on how microfinance can build a more equitable world. Thank you for reading, and for being part of this mission. editor@businessinsights.africa

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