The rollout of Kenya’s new digital identity cards, the Maisha Cards, has generated debate, particularly regarding their 10-year expiry date. On the other hand, civil society organizations (CSOs) have expressed concerns about a potential link between the expiry and manipulation in the 2027 elections. “What has been christened the Maisha number has an expiry date. IDs are critical in matters to do with voting. We want an explanation. It raises a lot of suspicion, and one can see it is a scheme to rig elections in 2027,” the CSOs expressed during a press conference Sunday. Understanding the 10-Year Expiry Julius…
Author: David Indeje
David Indeje
David Indeje is the community engagement editor at Khusoko, a leading digital platform for East African business news. He oversees editorial content, drives audience engagement, and amplifies diverse voices. Indeje also consults on digital strategy for brands in agriculture, governance, technology, and health, while exploring AI’s impact on journalism. In addition, he serves as a communications officer at KICTANet, advancing digital inclusion and policy dialogue.
Stanbic Holdings Plc channelled over KES 100 billion in 2023 towards projects, solutions, and initiatives promoting sustainability, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and trade across Kenya and South Sudan. According to the bank’s 2023 Sustainability Report “Creating Shared Value by Living Our Purpose,” the impact aligns with its commitment to integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices into its core operations. “Our sustainability report highlights the progress we’ve made in green lending, housing initiatives, financial inclusion, and diversity. These are the pillars of our sustainability strategy,” Dr Joshua Oigara, Chief Executive Stanbic Bank Kenya and South Sudan, stated during the launch.…
Uncover, a Kenyan-founded women’s skincare brand focused on melanin-rich skin, has successfully closed a $1.4 million Seed II funding round. This investment will fuel further development of their tech platform, product launches, and expansion into new markets. Focus on Data and Personalization Founded three years ago, Uncover utilizes data-driven insights and K-Beauty technology combined with African botanicals to create personalized skincare solutions. They prioritize testing products on women in Africa, a market often overlooked by global brands. The funding round was led by EQ2 Ventures and IgniteXL Ventures, with participation from African venture capital firms Chui Ventures, Samata Capital, and…
A Kenyan court has issued a temporary suspension order halting the ban on protests in Nairobi and surrounding areas. The Milimani High Court issued the ruling on Thursday afternoon in response to a petition filed by the Katiba Institute, a human rights organization. The petition challenged the ban imposed by Acting Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, arguing it violated the right to peaceful assembly. Justice Bahati Mwamuye ordered the suspension until a full hearing can be held. “Pending the inter-parties hearing of the Application dated 18/07/2024, a conservatory order be and is hereby issued restraining the Inspector-General of Police and…
European phone manufacturer HMD has unveiled its latest flagship, the HMD Skyline. This phone prioritizes camera capabilities and features a unique built-in “Detox Mode” for managing digital well-being. HMD, known for its focus on user-centric design and repairability, stood out at the Mobile World Congress with its innovative approach. The Skyline embodies this strategy, partnering with lifestyle brands and emphasizing repairability features alongside powerful features. Designed for Creators The Skyline boasts a powerful camera system, catering to a Gen Z audience. The 50MP front-facing camera offers autofocus and eye-tracking for sharp selfies. It even includes “selfie gesture” technology, allowing users…
Since protests against the Finance Bill 2024 began on June 18, 2024, a disturbing pattern of human rights abuses has emerged in Kenya. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has documented at least 50 deaths, 59 abductions, and 682 arbitrary arrests. These numbers are spread across 17 counties, highlighting the widespread nature of the crackdown. “Despite the continued calls for a stop to the abductions, we have noted that the kidnappings, illegal arrests and torture of innocent Kenyans have continued,” KNCHR adds. Kenya’s Press Freedom Declines: A Troubling Trend The media has not been spared. Journalists have been…