The Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) Board of Directors has appointed Mr. Tobias Alando as the Chief Executive, effective January 2025.
With over 20 years of experience, Tobias brings expertise in corporate vision execution, public policy development, government relations, and stakeholder engagement.
Tobias joined KAM in 2005 and has held several positions, including the Head of Membership and Governance and the Chief Operating Officer, before his appointment as acting chief executive in August 2024.
During this period, Tobias has played a strategic role in expanding KAM’s membership base and leading the development and execution of strategies on membership growth and retention; enhancing operational efficiency and organizational sustainability; and promoting good company culture, steering KAM into a world-class Business Membership Organization (BMO).
Speaking on Tobias’ appointment, KAM Chairperson Jane Karuku expressed her optimism, saying, “We are excited to have Tobias Alando on board as the substantive Chief Executive for the Association. We focus on efficient service delivery to our members and advocating for an enabling environment for a competitive manufacturing sector.”
Following the appointment, Tobias noted, “I am honored to be appointed to this role, and I am committed to leveraging my experience to support local industries to thrive and grow and to contribute to the aspirations of the manufacturing sector.”
Tobias holds a Master of Management and Leadership from the Management University of Africa and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University in India. His professional development includes certifications in private sector development, the green economy, and corporate governance.
(L-R) Commercial Director, EABL Joel Kamau, KBL MD, Mark Ocitti, Kisumu County Deputy Governor, Matthew Owili & Group Corporate Relations Director, Eric Kiniti
Kenya Breweries Limited’s (KBL) Senator Keg brand has kicked off a nationwide celebration marking 20 years since its launch, under the theme “Tuzidi Kuinuana” (Let’s Keep Uplifting Each Other). The campaign highlights Senator Keg’s contributions to economic growth, community development, and its role in curbing the proliferation of illicit brews in Kenya.
The celebrations officially began in Western Kenya with vibrant events held in Ahero, Kisumu County, and Bungoma County. Consumers were treated to electrifying performances from local artists and DJs, alongside engaging activities that showcased Senator Keg’s rich history and enduring legacy.
Speaking at the Kisumu event, KBL Commercial Director Joel Kamau highlighted the transformative role Senator Keg has played over the last two decades. “We are celebrating the impact of Senator across the value chain in the country—from farmers, aggregators, and threshers to retailers and transporters. Senator provides an affordable, high-quality beer that counters the illicit brew menace while uplifting the lives of many Kenyans,” he said.
Since its introduction in 2004, Senator Keg has become a pillar in Kenya’s beer market, offering a safe and affordable alternative to unregulated brews. By partnering with small-scale farmers, the brand has stimulated local sorghum production, created thousands of jobs, and generated significant tax revenue for the country. Senator Keg has also invested in community development projects, such as a water project in Siaya, which serves over 40 households and impacts more than 500 people.
Rachel Wambui, KBL’s Shopper Manager, emphasized the importance of the Western Kenya celebrations: “We came to Ahero to thank our consumers, bar owners, distributors, and farmers who have been with us for the last 20 years. Senator Keg has not only provided an affordable, quality beer but has also made a positive impact on the community. Through initiatives like our water project, we continue to uplift lives.”
The celebrations move to Makuti Bar, Eldoret Uasin Gishu County, this weekend, to engage consumers and their larger stakeholder community. The nationwide celebration will thereafter continue in the coming months, with more consumer events planned in various regions, including Thika, Meru, Nyeri, Kakamega, and more. The full schedule spans from October 2024 to April 2025, showcasing Senator Keg’s enduring presence across the country.
Principal Secretary (PS) for the State Department of the National Treasury, Dr. Chris Kiptoo, appeared before the National Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Monday.
The National Treasury is exploring alternative public-private partnership (PPP) models to finance the country’s mega infrastructure projects following the cancellation of Adani Group-led initiatives for the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and the Kenya Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO).
Principal Secretary (PS) for the State Department of the National Treasury, Dr. Chris Kiptoo, stated that the country’s fiscal position is untenable, making it impractical to finance key infrastructure projects like the upgrading and modernization of JKIA through the national budget.
He emphasized that the current tax regime already burdens taxpayers.
Appearing before the National Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee on Monday, Kiptoo highlighted the urgent need for JKIA’s modernization.
He noted that the airport, designed in 1978 to handle 5–7 million passengers annually, is now managing over 10 million passengers, straining its capacity and functionality as East Africa’s primary aviation hub.
“JKIA, when it was built and designed, was meant to handle about 5–7 million passengers. Today, as the East African hub, it is handling over 10 million passengers. Therefore, it is in dire need of upgrading and modernization to accommodate these numbers,” said Kiptoo.
The PS explained that the amount required for such a significant project cannot be raised through the national budget.
“The only viable way to finance this is through a public-private partnership (PPP) model. Since Kenyans have rejected the Adani Group, we will need to identify a partner with better ideas and options to execute the project, not necessarily Adani,” he added.
The PS had appeared before the Butere MP, Tindi Mwale led the committee to respond to and address the Auditor General’s report for the financial year ending June 30, 2022, concerning the State Department for the National Treasury.
Funyula MP, Wilberforce Oundo, emphasized that a majority of Kenyans now favor public-private partnership (PPP) models, citing the successful completion of the Nairobi Expressway as a prime example.
However, he argued that projects like the modernization of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) present challenges that might make them unsuitable for PPP models under certain circumstances.
“PPP is the way to go when it comes to financing mega projects, given the limited and constrained fiscal space our country is currently facing,” Oundo stated.
He underlined the necessity of PPP models to bridge the gap between ambitious infrastructure goals and the reality of strained public resources.
On his part, Bura MP, Yakub Adow, also voiced support for PPPs but stressed the critical need for transparency and public engagement in their implementation.
He stressed the importance of conducting thorough public participation to educate citizens, ensuring legitimacy and widespread acceptance of such partnerships.
“The National Treasury must involve the public sufficiently to enlighten the masses and secure legitimacy for these projects. If these deals are shrouded in secrecy, as was perceived in the case of the Adani Group’s proposals for JKIA and KETRACO, it will be disastrous,” Adow warned.
Chepalungu MP, Victor Koech-Mandazi also agreed that while PPPs represent a viable path forward for financing large-scale projects in Kenya, the government must adopt a transparent, inclusive approach to avoid public mistrust and opposition.
According to Koech, the state should ensure that all agreements align with the interests of the nation and address concerns raised by all stakeholders.
“If executed properly, PPPs can play a transformative role in advancing Kenya’s infrastructure agenda without overburdening taxpayers. However, success hinges on transparency, accountability, and meaningful public engagement at every stage of the process,” Koech stated.
Airtel Money Kenya has signed a partnership with Naivas Supermarket that will allow Airtel Money customers to deposit and withdraw cash across Naivas branches countrywide. The deal is part of Airtel Money’s proactive strategy to expand its agent footprint and get closer to the customer.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Airtel Money Managing Director, Ms. Anne Kinuthia Otieno, said the partnership will significantly bolster their ongoing efforts to enhance access to financial services for their customers through their Mobile Money platform.
“Today marks a significant milestone for us, as we join hands with Naivas Supermarket to enhance our customers’ convenience. This partnership underscores Airtel Money’s commitment to expanding our reach and ensuring our services are easily accessible. By offering cash deposit and withdrawal services at Naivas branches nationwide, we are strengthening our presence and reaffirming our dedication to providing seamless and affordable financial solutions through our Mobile Money platform,” said Ms. Anne Kinuthia Otieno.
In addition, customers transacting at the Naivas branches will enjoy free withdrawal services as part of the ongoing ‘Rudishiwa Transaction Fee Campaign.’ Launched in December last year, this campaign refunds withdrawal transaction fees as Airtel Airtime with each withdrawal done. For instance, if a customer withdraws Kes 1,000, incurring a Kes 25 withdrawal charge, they will receive the Kes 25, which can be utilized for airtime, data bundles, or SMS.
On his part, Airtel Kenya Managing Director Ashish Malhotra highlighted the partnership’s impact in aligning with the company’s mission to prioritize customer convenience. “By leveraging our network expansion, we believe this partnership with Naivas Supermarket is timely and aligns with our commitment to deliver unparalleled convenience. At Airtel Kenya, we are ensuring access and affordability for all our customers, and strategic partnerships like this play a crucial role in achieving that,” emphasized Mr. Ashish Malhotra.
“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Airtel Money, enabling our customers to deposit and withdraw cash across all our 109 branches conveniently. This collaboration enhances accessibility and convenience, empowering our customers with seamless financial services. This move perfectly aligns with our mantra: We exist to make other people’s lives better. Our partnership with Airtel Money exemplifies this commitment, as this move ensures smooth and convenient financial transactions. We are proud that this collaboration is a testament to our dedication to improving the lives of our customers.” Said Naivas Chief of Operations, Peter Mukuha.
Airtel Money Kenya is committed to building an extensive network of agents and anticipates forging additional strategic partnerships with key stakeholders in the market soon.
Gerald Arita, the nominee for Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Kenya, has informed Parliament that his 36 years of experience in various roles within the institution have thoroughly equipped him to assume the position if his appointment is approved.
Appearing before the joint-led committee by Mandera Senator Ali Roba and Molo MP Kuria Kimani Senate and National Assembly Finance, he revealed that he played a pivotal role in establishing mobile money banking.
Arita told the MPs that then Safaricom CEO Michael Joseph approached him. At the same time, he served as the Director for Bank Supervision with the idea of the telecommunications company coming up with a system in which money could be sent using mobile phones. After that, he advised then Finance Minister John Michuki on the importance of the matter, which was adopted.
“I was the first person that Safaricom met when it wanted to share a money transfer proposal. Michael Jackson met me when they were introducing M-Pesa. I had a choice of chasing him away or listening to him. I took the initiative to listen to him and went through the product finally and gave them a pilot license; that was one of my biggest achievements.”
He added, “I then proceeded after that by advising then Finance Minister late John Michuki on the importance of the government allowing that, and it has now revolutionized how money transactions in the country are carried out,” emphasized Arita.
Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale questioned Arita on how he plans to avoid potential conflicts with Central Bank Governor Kamau Thugge, raising concerns that he, having served at the Central Bank for his entire career since joining as a management trainee in 1988.
‘’ Listening to your long resume, you’ve been very senior in the bank, and I’m afraid because this many years in the bank you ran the risk of being a Mr. ‘‘know it all,’’ to the extent you might not accept to work under the governor of the central bank who has not grown in the central bank unless you convince us we might not recommend you.’’
“I’m a team player; there is no fear the Governor of the Central Bank has the duty of allocating responsibilities to the two Deputy Governors based on their experience and expertise. I do not see how there will be conflict among us since each one of us has got his clear roles to play spelled out; I have represented CBK to market the Eurobond in the US together before, and we’ve worked together when he was a PS,” said Arita.
Turkana South MP, John Ariko, inquired about the new measures the nominee intends to introduce to the institution, seeking clarification on the security of Kenya’s currency printing, which is currently being handled in Germany, raising concerns about the potential risk of unauthorized individuals replicating the currency abroad.
If approved, Arita stated that he is committed to ensuring better market coordination and increased liquidity, highlighting the ongoing efforts to provide cash transfers to vulnerable communities as a means of empowerment. He added that lowering inflation remains a key priority, assuring that money printing processes are secure and tamper-proof.
Baringo North MP Joseph Makilap questioned Arita, saying he was satisfied with his accomplishments so far and ready to retire, and why he chose to apply for the job instead of enjoying a peaceful retirement.
Arita said, “I retired last month having attained 60 years having served the country in the Central Bank in various capacities for the last 36 years but I still have energy and the necessary experience to serve the country, That is why I believe President William Ruto has nominated me to this position and if approved by this house, I will work.’’
Kenya has 40 commercial banks, while Nigeria has 20. It is not easy to regulate the number of commercial banks in the country, but the market will determine their viability.
Mombasa Senator, Mohammed Faki, asked Mr. Arita to comment on the incidents of clients being defrauded in their Bank accounts and what the possible solutions he will offer to end Arita clarified that it’s a serious issue with the Central Bank doing penetration vetting to seal off any loopholes that may lead to customers losing their money with cyber security centers being set up.
Arita’s net worth is KES 169 million, with his home contributing significantly to this figure. Although he built the house 20 years ago for KES 20 million and acquired the land for KES 5 million, he has valued the property at its current market rate, reflecting its appreciation over time.
The Special Funds Accounts Committee has raised concerns over the purpose and effectiveness of the State Officers and Public Officers Motor Car Loan Scheme (SOPOMCLS).
During a meeting convened to address pending audit queries, Legislators revealed that the fund valued at Kshs. 3.8 billion, has only facilitated transactions worth Kshs. 641 million since its inception.
According to reports by the Auditor-General, the fund was dormant between 2015 and 2019, with Kshs. 3 billion sitting idle during that period.
Further analysis of audit reports uncovered an alleged accounting error where a car grants worth Kshs.9.8 million was recorded in the wrong ledger.
The scheme’s CEO, Edna Atisa, explained that the fund was established to provide car loans to state officers in the Executive and civil servants under the Public Service Commission.
She attributed the delay in the fund’s operationalization to challenges in securing a financial institution to administer the scheme.
MPs questioned the necessity of involving a financial institution that charges a 1 percent interest fee, suggesting that the fund could manage loan processing internally.
Atisa further stated that the accounting query was because the fund at its inception lacked capacity and therefore staff from the National Treasury, initially managed the fund. Members questioned the competency of the officers who had handled the matter.
Currently, Kshs. 3.4 billion of the fund is invested with the Central Bank of Kenya, generating a profit of Kshs. 533 million through government securities.
Lawmakers criticized this approach, arguing that the fund prioritizes investments over fulfilling its mandate of offering car loans to state and public officers.
“Does this Car Loan Scheme exist to provide car loans to state and public officers, or is your mandate to focus on investments while your clients are neglected?” Session-Chair, sought Kivasu.
The Committee has directed the fund’s management to reappear for further investigation of financial records leading to 2024.
In a separate meeting, the Committee examined pending audit queries linked to the Public Service Superannuation Fund.
The fund’s CEO, Dr. Jonah Aiyabei was tasked to respond to unremitted pension contributions from employers over a one-year period.
Dr. Aiyabei attributed the issue to system lags during the fund’s initial operations and assured Members that an automated system is being developed and will be operational by March 2025.
The National Treasury is required to pay a penalty in line with the fund’s regulations for the delayed remittances. The Committee directed the fund’s management to present additional evidence to support their responses to the audit query.
The Kenya Bankers Association (KBA), in collaboration with IFC and WWF Kenya, has today launched the revamped Sustainable Finance Guiding Principles and the Landscape of Sustainable Finance in Kenya’s Banking Industry Report as part of ongoing efforts to deepen financial inclusion and sustainability within Kenya’s financial services sector.
Developed with IFC’s support, the revamped Sustainable Finance Guiding Principles provide a robust framework for banks to integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations into their operations. Alignment with global standards fosters responsible lending, sustainable investments, and innovative financial solutions that address Kenya’s socio-economic and environmental challenges.
The Landscape Report, supported by WWF-Kenya, highlights key achievements and challenges in sustainable finance. The report indicates that gross loans across 11 key sectors grew by 23 percent since 2020, reaching Sh3.6 trillion in 2022, with MSMEs receiving Sh783.3 billion.
However, the report cites challenges such as high costs for sustainability-linked bonds, inconsistent sustainability reporting, and limited data standardization that persist. The report identifies opportunities for further investment in green growth sectors, including agriculture, energy, water, manufacturing, and real estate.
Quotes by Partners and Speakers
“Sustainable business models and green financing are not mere trends but essential pathways for ensuring long-term economic stability and environmental stewardship. By integrating sustainability into our lending and investment decisions, we can help mitigate climate risks, support green projects, and grow our economies while safeguarding the future of our planet.” Betty Korir, Kenya Bankers Association Vice Chairperson.
“The Sustainable Finance Initiative has enabled over 50,000 bank employees to make lending decisions that benefit the environment, society, and economy. With the revamped guiding principles, the banking industry is better equipped to adopt best governance and risk management practices, further driving innovation and financial inclusion.” Raimond Molenje, KBA Ag. CEO.
WWF Kenya Quote
‘’Kenya has rich natural resources, a dynamic entrepreneurial spirit, and a robust financial sector that provides a unique platform to champion sustainability. However, with these opportunities come significant responsibilities to adopt an integrated approach that aligns economic activities with the sustainable development agenda. WWF-Kenya will continue to collaborate with the Kenya Bankers Association because we believe in a future of financial prosperity grounded in sustainability a safe legacy that connects people, nature, and the economy.” Mohammad Awer, WWF-Kenya Chief Executive Officer.’’ IFC Quote
‘’Application of the SFI principles is important for Kenyan banks as it will promote financing for renewable energy, energy efficiency, sustainable agriculture, and other eco-friendly projects. It will also encourage banks to support projects that enhance social inclusion, gender equality, affordable housing, healthcare, and education. Finally, it will help banks manage environmental and social risks, making informed decisions to protect financial stability.’’ Mary Potter Peschka, IFC Regional Director.
GIZ Quote
“As Sustainable Agricultural Systems and Policies (AgSys) through Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, we have initiated a partnership with Kenya Bankers
Association (KBA) to support financial institutions in exploring sustainable financing opportunities for the agricultural sector. We believe that how we finance our agri-food systems from both public and private sources of capital may be the ultimate game changer since financing is both a driver of food system inefficiencies and an essential ingredient to their transformation. We recognize that climate change impacts how financial institutions perceive risks, especially in the agricultural sector. Therefore, our partnership will enable financial institutions to implement sustainable financing options such as blended finance for investments into nature-based solutions that benefit the planet, beneficiaries, and the financial institutions.’’ Sophia Baumert, Project Manager, Sustainable Agricultural Systems and Policies (AgSys).
World Wide Fund for Nature Kenya (WWF-Kenya) is a locally registered non-governmental conservation organization and an affiliate of WWF International. WWF has been working in Kenya since 1962 alongside the government, civil society, private sector organizations, and local communities to contribute towards providing an enabling environment for the achievement of a healthy natural environment supporting people and sustainable development in Kenya.
The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) has today rolled out a photography contest aimed at showcasing various travel destinations across the country with a focus on hidden gems.
The contest dubbed ‘Tembea Kenya, Capture Magical Kenya’ will run on social media with Kenyans encouraged to take photos of various destinations, indicate their location, and tag KTB on its social media handles on X, Facebook, or Instagram.
According to KTB CEO, June Chepkemei, the contest aims to engage the wider public in promoting destinations in their home counties that have gone unnoticed despite their tourism appeal.
“At the County level, Kenyans have invested in the growth of tourism through accommodation and other hospitality services around nontraditional tourism destinations. These investments continue to open up urban and remote areas to tourism activities. Unfortunately, most Kenyans are not aware of these attractions, through this contest we hope to leverage the power of photography to publicize these hidden gems.” Said the CEO
The contest will also seek to highlight the traditional tourism sites that are often viewed as targeting international travelers and are not frequented by domestic tourists.
“As an industry, we recognize the important role played by domestic tourism in not only promoting Kenya as a global destination but also in sustaining the entire hospitality sector, especially during low season occasioned by low international visitors into the country. This contest will therefore go a long way in unearthing more diverse experiences for domestic tourists to enjoy.” Miss Chepkemei added
The Photography Contest will run from the 5th of November to the 11th of December with Kenyans highlighting various tourism products through photography ranging from; Wildlife, Culture, Adventure, city life and landscapes alongside conservation and sustainability.
The contest which will culminate in a photo exhibition will run under 8 categories namely; Hidden Gems of Kenya, Kenyan Wildlife Wonder, Rich Cultural Heritage & Traditions, Breath-taking Landscapes, 50 Million Smiles – Kenyan People and Faces, Adventure in Kenya, Urban Vibes: Kenya’s Vibrant Cities and Sustainable Travel – Community & Conservation Efforts. Winners across the 8 categories stand a chance to win a top cash prize of Ksh. 150,000, Ksh. 70,000 for second place and Ksh. 30,000 for third place. The prizes will be awarded across all 8 categories.
MPs have fined the Kenya Airports Authority Managing Director Mr Henry Ogoye Shs. 500,000 for skipping accountability meeting.
The Committee on Cohesion and Equal Opportunities chairperson Hon Adan Haji said they imposed the fine on the MD after he skipped four meetings.
He had been invited to shed light on employment diversity among other issues.
Mr Ogoye was to appear before the Committee to explain measures put in place to ensure all Kenyans have equal opportunities in employment of the organisation.
“The Committee has acted in accordance with Article 191 A (1) which compels the Committee to impose a fine on such an absentee witness,” said the Mandera West MP.
During the meeting chaired by Haji at Parliament Buildings today, members of the Committee expressed their anger at the non-appearance.
“This is the fourth time the MD is skipping Committee meetings. We have taken stern action against him to serve as an example to other senior government officers who ignore invites by the Committee for accountability,” said Hon Haji.
Hon Ong’ondo Were expressed anger that the MD had appeared before another Committee in Parliament after skipping the Cohesion team.
“The fact that the MD has chosen to honour invites of another Committee and not the Cohesion one shows he has low regards about this Committee,” stated the Kaspul MP.
Kajiado North MP Onesmus Ngogoyo said the Committee will not tolerate senior government officers who show disrespect to the Cohesion Committee by skipping meetings.
“Witnesses need to take serious invites by parliamentary committees. A fine on the MD should sound as a warning to others with similar characters,” said Ngogoyo.
The Committee has established ethnic imbalance in employment where one community got a giant share of jobs.
Following a recent article spotlighting concerns surrounding Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH), it has sparked a wave of varied reactions among residents.
Community members have taken to social media and local forums to voice their thoughts, with opinions spanning from support and calls for reform to criticism of healthcare services.
The coverage has ignited an important conversation around the quality of care, patient experience, and broader issues within the hospital system, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in Kenya’s healthcare sector.
Earlier, there were claims meted on Dr. Oimeke Mariita, the CEO moving county staff out of KTRH, and transfers of Specialist Clinicians and Community Health nurses.
James Kembero, a frustrated resident, says, “I spoke with several former colleagues at KTRH, and they expressed deep frustration and demoralization under the current management. There is uncertainty about their future work placements, and they question the leadership style that reassigns people almost daily.”
He has rejected claims, saying it’s only the mandate of the Health Department under the supervision of the Chief Officer, who is the Chairperson of the Departmental Human Resource Advisory Committee (DHRAC). He says he is only mandated to do internal rotations.
In a televised clip from the management, ‘’I have seen a lot of negativity about our CT scan, but as of 23rd October 31, 2024, or CT scan was up and running, we have attended to patients and all other imaging is functional, we want to dispel rumors that this machine is not working.’’ Mariita said.
The hospital with 5 theatre rooms as depicted by the CEO in a live radio interview.
“We have a 700-bed capacity and most of the time 90-95 percent of beds are occupied for an approximation of 630 people and in ICU and HDU oxygen is needed,” said Mariita.
In general wards, “At any given time, out of 630 patients 63 are on oxygen. The demand for oxygen in KTRH is high surpassing the plants we have. “Plans of adding Oxygen Plants?
The hospital boss reports that “In theatre, already quarter one (July, August, and September) we have managed to do 1,650 operations and if we continue with the same rate, by the end of this financial year we shall clock over 7,000 as compared to financial year, 4,202.”
The hospital has been accused of poor customer care services and poor hospitality disadvantaging the underprivileged.
Residents have affirmed that several activities are running despite the private wing services which are in limbo.
‘’There are challenges in the hospital but there is a smooth running of events efficiency remains the puzzle. Private wing is unclear to the public but the management should adequately spend more time and educate the public on the services it’s offering to set the clear picture for the public.’’ Obed Ongori a resident in Kisii who received services recently at the hospital.
KTRH is projecting to have a cardiologist take the task of open-heart surgeries.
Without giving the timelines, Spine surgeon services have been introduced and the services are operating. Mariita, reports that neurosurgeon services and machines performing the tasks are set to kick off.
By the time of publication, Mr. Ronald Gideon Nyakweba, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Medical Services, Public Health, and Sanitation, had not responded to repeated requests for comment regarding the current conditions at the county health facility.
