Author: David Indeje

Kenya’s GDP is projected to grow by 4.9 per cent in 2025, driven by a sectoral shift from agriculture to construction and financial services, according to Absa Bank. Absa Bank Senior Economist Phumelele Mbiyo predicts inflation will average 4.5 per cent, with core inflation remaining stable at around 2 per cent since July 2024. The impact of mild La Niña on food prices is expected to peak in the first quarter and subsequently ease. These insights were shared at Absa Bank Kenya’s 2025 Economic Forum, a week-long event for customers, industry peers, and financial market stakeholders to discuss macroeconomic trends,…

Kenya’s wheat sector faces a supply deficit, with the Agricultural Food Authority (AFA) reporting that the country produces only 8% of its annual demand, relying on imports for the remaining 92%. According to the AFA’s report, “The national wheat demand is 2.2–2.4 million metric tons annually. The country produces about 8% of total consumption, while 92% is imported.” In 2023, Kenya’s wheat production was 135,000 MT, compared to a consumption of 2,200,000 MT, a figure that has been steadily increasing. “The deficit of about 1.9-2.2 MT has been filled through imports, primarily from Russia, Ukraine, and the EU,” the AFA…

OPPO launched its Reno 13 series 5G in Kenya on Friday, featuring the Reno 13 F 5G (Plum Purple and Graphite Grey) and the Reno 13 F (Graphite Grey and Skyline Blue). These devices integrate generative AI features, including summary, rewrite, reply, and circle-to-search functionalities, as well as AI enhancements in photography. “It is not just a smartphone, it is a trendsetter,” says Fredrique Achieng, PR Manager, OPPO Kenya, focusing on encouraging users to live fully in the present. “OPPO Reno13 Series is also an AI imaging expert, equipped with flagship-level functions including AI Livephoto and AI Clarity Enhancer. Offering incredible…

Regulatory sandboxes are gaining traction across Africa’s tech sector, offering controlled environments to test data and AI innovations, according to the Datasphere Initiative’s inaugural “Africa Sandboxes Outlook,” launched at the East Africa Data Governance Conference 2025 in Nairobi. The report defines sandboxes as “time-bound and multistakeholder collaborative environments that test innovative technologies and practices against regulatory frameworks or experiment with new uses, capabilities, resources, or business models.” According to the report, “They have emerged as key mechanisms for experimentation, providing a safe environment and enabling regulatory and technical innovation.” It highlights 25 national sandboxes in 15 African countries, with early implementations…

Sharon Wendo is the visionary founder and creative director of Epica African Jewellery, a Kenyan brand that’s redefining how we see African culture through fashion. Sharon isn’t just creating accessories; she’s crafting narratives, celebrating heritage, and empowering individuals. Her latest offering, the Maua collection, is a testament to this mission. Through intricate beadwork, inspired design, and a powerful message of self-love, Sharon’s Maua collection invites everyone to embrace their unique beauty and cultural identity. This collection is not just about beautiful pieces; it’s an invitation to self-love and empowerment. Sharon sat down with Khusoko, and let me tell you, her…

Kenyan businesses are facing significant headwinds, including rising operational costs, unpredictable taxation, and limited access to affordable credit, which CEOs warn could impede economic recovery in 2025. A Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) survey conducted between January 13-24, 2025, of over 1,000 CEOs revealed that while there is optimism about future economic prospects, these persistent challenges are creating substantial uncertainty. The CBK survey indicated that 63% of the surveyed CEOs represent privately owned domestic firms, with 52% overseeing companies with a turnover exceeding $11.5 million (KES 1 billion). Despite expectations of higher growth in the next 12 months driven by…