As global trade dynamics shift and economic gravity tilts toward the Global South, Africa finds itself at a defining moment. With 1.4 billion people and vast natural resources, the continent holds immense potential. Yet it contributes less than 3% to global trade and GDP, despite accounting for 17% of the world’s population. This disparity underscores the urgency of transforming Africa’s trade architecture. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), launched in January 2021, offers a historic opportunity to unify markets and boost intra-African trade—from today’s modest 16% to levels exceeding 50%, on par with the EU and Asia. But ambition…
Author: Khusoko
This World Mental Health Day, the message is clear: mental health is a universal human right. In 2025, the World Health Organisation is spotlighting those caught in humanitarian emergencies from climate shocks and conflict to digital exclusion and displacement. At Khusoko, we have long covered mental health as a cornerstone of Kenya’s development. From workplace wellness and youth resilience to digital inclusion and survivor-centred advocacy, we’ve seen how mental well-being shapes productivity, innovation, and dignity. But what happens when a crisis hits? Mental Health in Humanitarian Emergencies According to the WHO, one in five people affected by humanitarian emergencies will…
Kenya’s largest supermarket chain has announced a major leadership shift, appointing Andreas von Paleske as Chief Executive Officer effective November 1, 2025. The move signals a new chapter for the retail giant as it steps away from founder-family leadership after more than three decades of growth. Von Paleske, who has served as Naivas’ Chief of Strategy for the past eight years, brings deep experience in retail and investment. His appointment follows a long-term succession plan designed to sustain the company’s growth trajectory. “This is a moment of continuity and renewal,” said von Paleske. “Naivas is built on strong foundations, and…
The opportunities that artificial intelligence (AI) offers African teachers and students are immense; the AI education market in the Middle East and Africa is projected to hit $1.7 billion by 2030. Yet in Sub-Saharan Africa, where student–teacher ratios can reach 50:1 and many children still lack access to quality learning resources, the need for innovative solutions is urgent. What excites me most about AI in African education is the potential to address persistent inequalities in ways that haven’t been possible before. For too long, students in under-resourced schools have had fewer opportunities simply because their teachers lacked access to support,…
Betika, Kenya’s leading sports and gaming brand, has unveiled a six-week mega campaign—Beba Beba Uki Betika—offering customers a chance to win prizes worth over Sh100 million. The promotion runs from October 1 to November 11, with weekly and grand prizes designed to reward loyal players and reinforce Betika’s position as a top-tier gaming platform. Grand Draw: Win a 33-Seater Isuzu Bus The campaign will culminate in a grand draw on November 14, where one lucky winner will drive away in a brand-new Isuzu NQR 81 33-seater bus. Two additional winners will each receive a Suzuki Baleno GLX. Weekly Prizes: Motorbikes…
Kenya’s middle class is facing one of the toughest financial squeezes in recent memory. Rising taxes, spiralling living costs, and mandatory deductions are shrinking disposable income at alarming rates. By the time statutory deductions like NSSF, NHIF, and AHL are factored in—before even considering PAYE—salaried Kenyans are often left with nearly half of their gross pay. What remains must stretch to cover rent, utilities, transport, school fees, food, domestic support, and remittances upcountry. It is no wonder that by the second or third day after payday, many households are already struggling to make ends meet. This is the reality of…

