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  • 49 gas plants closed as Embakasi explosion victims now set to experience further compensation delays

    49 gas plants closed as Embakasi explosion victims now set to experience further compensation delays

    CS Energy and Petroleum David Chirchir appearing before Joint Energy Parliamentary Committees on 29th, Feb 2024.
    CS Energy and Petroleum David Chirchir appearing before Joint Energy Parliamentary Committees on 29th, Feb 2024.

    In the aftermath of the tragic Embakasi explosion incident on February 1, where non-compliance issues were starkly highlighted, the government has taken decisive action by suspending the operating licenses of 49 Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) companies.

    The progress unfolds alongside the revelation that individuals affected by the explosion, resulting in a minimum of 10 fatalities and over 300 injuries, will experience a delay in receiving State compensation.

    Appearing before the Senate Energy Committee on Thursday 29, Energy and Petroleum CS Davies Chirchir said the National Disaster Committee has made regular visits to the Deputy President’s office but is yet to release updates on the compensating progress.

    CS Chirchir faced hard times in responding to Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who had demanded to know why the victims had not been compensated a month after the incident, despite being promised by the DP.

    “Why have the residents of Mradi, Embakasi East, not been compensated? A month is now over.” Sifuna Questioned.

    “It is tough, like under the budget policy statement that is going through the due process now for every Ministry to put a budget for this kind of incidence, and therefore, there is a National Disaster Committee in place under the Office of the Deputy President as we’ve nominated officials from every ministry to sit in that committee to respond to such cases,” Chirchir responded.

    The Cabinet Secretary elucidated that there are gaps in surveillance and crackdown on non-compliant facilities, attributing it to the understaffing of the enforcement department.

    EPRA’s recent initiatives were prompted by legislative pressure, highlighting concerns about the regulator’s perceived laxity in enforcing safeguards to prevent a recurrence of the Embakasi explosion incident.

    “We learned of the operation of an illegal plant at midnight when the incident happened. We had demolished the LPG plant before, and if we had arrested them before the incident happened, we would have averted this,” Chirchir said.

    “The third attempt for a construction permit was made on July 31, 2023, but the application was referred on August 23, 2023, with the request for more information since a detailed qualitative risk assessment had not been attached. EPRA noted the presence of a church and residential neighborhood,” the CS said.

    He added that

    The CS revealed that Derrick Kimathi, the proprietor of the illegal plant where the incident happened, was a rogue operator who operated the premises as a garage during the day and as an LPG filling station at night.

    Mr. Derrrick Kimathi, the possessor of the deadly LPG site, according to records submitted by CS Chirchir, was denied a license in three attempts on March 19, 2023, June 20, 2023, and July 31, 2023, all of which were rejected.

    CS added, “Preliminary investigations indicate that the explosion was caused by the uncontrolled release of LPG from road tanker registration number KBJ 185X ZD2234 registered to Mr. Abraham Mwangi Nguyo. At the time of the incident, Mr. Mwangi, operating under the business name Klear Mwiki Gas Suppliers, was licensed by EPRA to transport LPG in bulk by road under License No.EPRA/LPG/10342,” CS Chirchir informed the members.

    Mr. Chirchir informed the committees that Maxxis Nanyuki has already served EPRA with a stay order notice.

    “However, it is worth noting that Maxxis Nanyuki Energy has already served EPRA with a stay order dated February 16, 2024, from the High Court at Milimani, terming the revocation of the license as illegal and unlawful,” he said.

    The chair of the National Assembly Energy Committee, Hon. Vincent Kawaya, urged the ministry and EPRA to consider putting the new regulations into work.

    “Do you think you have enough systems or networks in place to assure Kenyans that this is not going to stop because, when you look at the document by the CS, it’s fantastic? It is really what must be done.’’ Hon. Vincent Kawaya affirmed.

    Nyeri Senator, Hon. Wamatinga, led the committee; however, his side pleaded with lawmakers to sensitize Kenyans to resist cheap and undefined products for use.

    “I think we as members must also take it upon ourselves to go and talk to our people so that they know that cheap can be very expensive. These are some of the things that we as a country must change, and it must start with us. Sen. Wamatinga Wahome.

  • Leading retailer unveils its 103rd Branch along Thika Road

    Leading retailer unveils its 103rd Branch along Thika Road

    Naivas Supermarket top officials cutting cake to mark the unveiling of the newest branch.
    Naivas Supermarket top officials cutting cake to mark the unveiling of the newest branch.

    Dominating the retail landscape in Greater Eastern Africa, Naivas makes a triumphant return to the iconic Thika Road with its 103rd store, marking the second opening this year.

    Just a month ago, the retail giant celebrated the inauguration of its 102nd branch at Mwanzi Market along Mwanzi Road in Westlands.

    The newest addition solidifies Naivas’ presence in the Thika Road region, boasting a total of 12 branches that encompass all store formats.

    Strategically located in a mixed-use development, the new outlet harmoniously coexists with various complementary businesses, including a renowned multinational fast-food chain and a petrol station. This symbiotic relationship ensures a holistic shopping experience for every customer.

    Beyond catering to diverse needs, the establishment offers easy accessibility from the highway, allowing shoppers to seamlessly continue their journey.

    Of paramount importance is the well-stocked inventory, featuring a diverse array of quality products ranging from fresh produce to commodities and fast-moving consumer goods.

    Andreas von Paleske, Chief of  Strategy at Naivas, expressed confidence in the groundbreaking achievement, noting,

    “We are charting unexplored territory as the first supermarket in the country to surpass 100 branches. This success story, rooted in the strong foundations laid by the Mukuha family and fortified by strategic partnerships, will undoubtedly be etched in history and research papers for generations to come.”

    “Leading a consortium of investors, IBL, with a legacy spanning 190 years of a successful global family business, strengthens Naivas’ corporate governance. “Our mission has always been to provide a world-class shopping experience, standing shoulder to shoulder with global brands. True to our roots, anyone who walks into our outlets experiences authentic Kenyan hospitality. In keeping with our promise to ‘saves you money,’ we remain committed to offering relief to Kenyans during these challenging times,” remarked Peter Mukuha, Chief of Strategy at Naivas.

    As the retail giant looks ahead, upcoming outlets in Lang’ata and Buruburu are on the horizon, promising continued growth and a commitment to delivering exceptional value to customers.

  • CAK Approves the Proposed acquisition of African Originals Limited

    The Competition Authority of Kenya has approved the proposed acquisition of minority control of African Originals Limited, the ulimtate owners of the KO brand of alocoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, by Phoenix Beverages Limited unconditionally.

     

    1. The Competition Authority of Kenya has approved the proposed acquisition of minority controlof African Originals Limited by Phoenix Beverages Limited unconditionally.
    2. This approval has been granted on the finding that the transaction is unlikely to negatively impact competition in the market for manufacture, processing, distribution, and sale of alcoholic ciders, alcoholic spirits and non-alcoholic ready-to-drink (NARTD) beverages, nor elicit negative public interest concerns – the two key considerations during merger analysis.

    3. Phoenix Beverages Limited (PBL) is a limited liability company incorporated in Mauritius. PBL is publicly listed on the Stock Exchange of Mauritius Ltd. PBL’s ultimate holding company is IBL Ltd (IBL), which is a publicly listed company incorporated in Mauritius.
    4. PBL is involved in the manufacture, processing, distribution, and sale of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, but has no operations in Kenya. However, through IBL, the acquiring group
    directly and indirectly control several undertakings with operations in Kenya, including its affiliate Naivas Limited.
    5. African Originals Limited is a private company limited incorporated in England and Wales. It controls an entity in Kenya, Savannah Brands Company Limited, that manufactures, processes,
    distributes and sells alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages including Kenyan Originals (KO)Alcoholic Fruit Cider, Kenyan Originals Gin, and Kenyan Originals Iced Tea and Tonic.
    6. The proposed transaction involves the acquisition of a minority controlling stake (28.15%) of
    African Originals Limited’s ordinary shares by PBL, alongside minority controlling rights relating to, among others, budgets, annual business plans, and appointment of senior executives.
    This will result in de facto control.
    7. The transaction, therefore, qualified as a merger within the meaning of Section 2 and 41 of the Competition Act No. 12 of 2010. The Act stipulates that a merger, or takeover, may occur when an undertaking directly or indirectly acquires control over another business within Kenya. This
    may happen through, among others, purchase/lease of shares, exchange of shares, or vertical integration.

    8. Further, merging parties whose combined turnover or assets, whichever is higher, is over Ksh. 1Billion are required to seek approval from the Authority prior to implementing the proposedtransaction. The transaction between PBL and African Originals Limited met this threshold for mandatory notification and full analysis as provided in the Competition (General) Rules, 2019.

    9. During merger analysis, and in order to determine the impact that a transaction will have on competition, the Authority identifies the relevant product market as well as the relevant geographic market.
    10. The relevant product market comprises products/services that are interchangeable or substitutable by the consumer due to their characteristics, prices and/or intended use. Based on this criterion, the relevant product market for the proposed transaction is the market for the manufacture, processing, distribution, and sale of alcoholic ciders, alcoholic spirits and nonalcoholic ready-to-drink (NARTD) beverages.
    11. It is noteworthy that the activities of the acquirer’s affiliate, Naivas Limited, and the target are vertically integrated since Savannah Brands Company Limited supplies the supermarket chain with products.
    12. Determination of the relevant geographic market involves interrogating the area in which merging parties undertake the business and in which competition conditions are sufficiently similar. With regard to the proposed transaction, the target sells its products throughout the country. Therefore, the relevant geographic market is national.
    i.Market for Alcoholic Ciders in Kenya
    13. Cider is an alcoholic drink made from fermented apple juice. Ciders are distinguished from wine by their lower alcohol content and higher natural sugars. Further, the production lead-time for ciders typically is shorter.
    14. Some of the manufacturers and/or suppliers in the alcoholic cider market in Kenya include East African Breweries PLC (EABL) which produces Tusker Cider & Sikera, Kenya Wine Agencies Ltd (KWAL) which produces Savannah and Hunters, and the target – Kenyan Originals (KO) Ciders. The estimated market shares for the players and brands of cider according to data provided by the parties is as indicated below.

     

    15. As earlier indicated, the target is in a vertical relationship with Naivas Limited, which is engaged
    in retail distribution and sale of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, among other
    commodoties.
    16. Although the target and Naivas are vertically intergrated, none of them holds a dominant position or has ability to exercise market power in both the upstream and downstream markets since there have effective competitors. Therefore, there is no incentive to foreclose supply of targets products to other retailers or customers.
    ii)Market for Spirits in Kenya
    17. Spirits are alcoholic beverages produced through distillation of wine, fermented fruits, or grains.
    Due to distillation, the spirits’ alcohol content is much higher than that of most wines and beers, typically ranging between 20% and 50% alcohol by volume (ABV). The spirits segment is further divided into various sub-segments: gin, rum, whisky, vodka, brandy, liqueurs, among others.
    18. Spirits are the second most popular alcoholic beverage in Kenya, accounting for approximately
    27% market share. Some of the manufacturers and/or suppliers of alcoholic spirits market in Kenya include EABL, Keroche Breweries Limited, Anheuser-Busch In Bev NV, London Distillers Kenya Ltd, Distell Group Ltd, and KWAL.
    19. Data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) 2023 Statistical Abstract estimated the earnings of the alcoholic spirits industry at KES 1.9 Billion in 2022. The target’s market share inthe spirits market was less than 1% in 2022.

    20. The value of annual sales arising from the vertical relationship between the target and Naivas with regard to spirits is 12%. When coupled with the retailers’ market share in terms of alcoholic beverage sales in the country, the Authority is of the view that the proposed transaction does not raise competition concerns, specifically regarding foreclosure in the spirits market.
    iii)Market for NARTD Beverages in Kenya
    21. NARTD beverages refer to beverages that do not contain alcohol, excluding hot drinks,
    powdered drink mixes, and syrups. The market for NARTDs can be segmented into ccarbonated and non-carbonated soft drinks. This market in Kenya is characterized by a mix of multinational corporations and local companies. The market is hihghly diverse, with various products catering to different consumer preferences.
    22. The Coca-Cola Company has the largest market share of NARTDs in Kenya, accounting for approximately 70% of the market followed by Kevian Kenya (4.76%); Excel Chemicals (2.29%); Del Monte (1.42%); Highlands (1.59%); Suntory (0.48%), and others (19.46%), including the target’s brands.
    23. According to the parties, the vertical relationship between the target and Naivas accounts for approximately 5% of its total annual sales of KO Iced Teas and Tonics. When coupled with the retailers’ market share in terms of alcoholic beverage sales in the country, the Authority is of the view that the proposed transaction does not raise competition concerns, specifically regarding foreclosure in the NARTD market.
    24. One criterion of assessing a merger’s impact on competition is the post-merger market share of the undertakings involved in the transaction. Based on the Authority’s assessment of applicable
    market shares, the structure and concentration of the market in the marekts for alcoholic ciders,
    spirits and NARTD beverages will not change as a result of the proposed transaction.
    25. During merger analysis, the Authority also considers the impact that a proposed transaction will have on public interest. Public interest in this case refers to various economically-inclined concepts that, when considered, protect the welfare of the public. In the Competition Act, some
    of the public interest considerations are;
    a) extent to which a proposed merger would impact employment opportunities;
    b) impact on competitiveness of SMEs;
    c) impact on particular industries/sectors; and
    d) impact on the ability of national industries to compete in international markets.
    26. As per the parties’ submissions, this transaction will not elicit negative public interest concerns. Specifically, there will be no loss of employment. All the target’s 87 employees will be retained.
    Premised on the above, the Authority approved the proposed acquisition of minority control of African Originals Limited by Phoenix Beverages Limited unconditionally.

  • Ministry of Interior and National Administration Embarks on enhancing Citizen Participation and Peace Building

    The Ministry of Interior and National Administration met with development partners to work together on enhancing citizen participation, peace building and conflict resolution.

    Various development partners were present where the meeting was held at Serena Hotel, Nairobi, hosted by Internal Security and National Administration Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo to review their collective achievements, challenges and to chart a path for the year 2024.

    The Principal Secretary Ministry of Interiror and National Administration observed that, the challenges the country faces from evolving security threats demands continuous vigilance and unwavering resolve, a matter he emphasized that requires greater collaboration and support from development partners.

    In 2023, the ministry joined forces with development partners where they embarked on a consultative and collaborative journey to anchor the foundations of security, resilience and progress within the country.

    “In 2023 our vision was to utilize the multi-sectoral approach and promote inter-agency coordination not only in the management of security but also in planning, budgeting, monitoring and delivery of security related programmes,” Said PS Raymond Omollo Ministry of Interior and National Administration.

    The PS singled out the European Union, the International Organization for Migration, the German Development Agency and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime as partners who funded numerous programmes to enhance Kenya’s border security management and capacity building for border officials, modernization of border infrastructure and technological support for passport and visa management.

    He further noted that, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the International Monetary Fund along with other development partners and donor countries, have been working closely with the ministry to provide humanitarian assistance and protection to the refugees who are a vulnerable population.

     

  • EAPP Convenes in Nairobi

    The Secretary General of the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP), Eng James K. Wahogo has issued the following statement following the EAPP Steering Committee and Council of Ministers’ Meetings at Ole Sereni Hotel, Nairobi.

    The forum saw the attendance of Members who included; Burundi,DRC, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Libya, Rwada, Somalia, S.Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda.

    The Eastern Africa Power Pool Secretary further observed that, the they are happy to announce the significant progress in collective efforts toward fostering regional collaboration and advancing sustainable energy solutions and power trade across Eastern Africa.

    The Eastern Africa Power Pool remains committed to enhancing energy security, promoting crossborder electricity trade, and driving the development of renewable energy sources within our member countries.

    Cabinet Secretary Mr. Davis Chirchir Ministry of Energy and Petroleum

    “It has been an honor to host the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP) Steering Committee and Council of Ministers Meetings here in Nairobi. We had representations from member states along
    with key development partners like the World Bank, the African
    Development Bank (AfDB), USAID/Power Africa.
    The representatives from the member countries and utilities in the Eastern Africa region actively participated in these meetings, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing regional cooperation
    in the energy sector.
    Together, these countries have an installed capacity of 90.6GW against a peak demand of 59.4MW which is estimated to grow at a rate of 6% annually. In total, the cross-border trade in terms of electricity sales within the EAPP member countries was about 2,527GHh between quarter 1 and quarter 3 of 2024.
    The discussions held were key in strengthening the organisational
    structure of the EAPP with a view of enhancing coordination, streamlining decision-making processes and to fortify the EAPP’s capacity to address emerging challenges head-on.” Said Davis Chirchir Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Energy and Petroleum Kenya.

    EAPP continues to facilitate the implementation of cross-border transmission projects aimed at strengthening regional connectivity and ensuring the reliable supply of electricity to our growing population. Together, we have the potential to impact over 600 million people through increasing
    of electrification rates within the region.
    Currently the countries are trading over 3,400GWh annually, which represents a big achievement compared to the 504 GWh of power transferred in the region when the EAPP was first establishedin 2005. Ongoing efforts to enhance the interconnection of national power grids are progressing
    well, contributing to increased efficiency in power exchange and supporting economic
    development across member countries.
    To build on the benefits of this interconnectivity, we are striving to have the competitive day-ahead power market go live by the end of December 2024. This market will take us from bilateral trade to trade amongst countries all countries in the region, ensuring not only regular supply but efficient use of energy.

     

    Finally, we are actively promoting the harnessing of renewable energy sources to meet the region’s power demands sustainably. We are sourcing partnerships and financing for projects in solar and hydropower for a greener and more cost-effective energy future.

    All this is made possible by the Steering Committee and Council of Ministers, whose
    recommendations form the guiding principles within which the Secretariat operates to fulfil its mandate. EAPP is pleased with what has transpired here and extend the gratitude to the ministers, CEOs, senior officials, and delegates who endeavored to participate in these meetings.

  • EAPP Convenes in Nairobi

    The Secretary General of the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP), Eng James K.Wahogo has issued the following statement following the EAPP Steering Committee and Council of Ministers’ Meetings at Ole Sereni Hotel, Nairobi.

    The forum saw the attendance of Members who included; Burundi,DRC, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Libya, Rwada, Somalia, S.Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda.

    The Eastern Africa Power Pool Secretary further observed that, the they are happy to announce the significant progress in collective efforts toward fostering regional collaboration and advancing sustainable energy solutions and power trade across Eastern Africa.
    .
    The Eastern Africa Power Pool remains committed to enhancing energy security, promoting crossborder electricity trade, and driving the development of renewable energy sources within our member countries.
    EAPP continues to facilitate the implementation of cross-border transmission projects aimed at strengthening regional connectivity and ensuring the reliable supply of electricity to our growing population. Together, we have the potential to impact over 600 million people through increasing
    of electrification rates within the region.
    Currently the countries are trading over 3,400GWh annually, which represents a big achievement compared to the 504 GWh of power transferred in the region when the EAPP was first establishedin 2005. Ongoing efforts to enhance the interconnection of national power grids are progressing
    well, contributing to increased efficiency in power exchange and supporting economic
    development across member countries.
    To build on the benefits of this interconnectivity, we are striving to have the competitive day-ahead power market go live by the end of December 2024. This market will take us from bilateral trade to trade amongst countries all countries in the region, ensuring not only regular supply but efficient use of energy.

    Finally, we are actively promoting the harnessing of renewable energy sources to meet the region’s power demands sustainably. We are sourcing partnerships and financing for projects in solar and
    hydropower for a greener and more cost-effective energy future.

    All this is made possible by the Steering Committee and Council of Ministers, whose
    recommendations form the guiding principles within which the Secretariat operates to fulfil its mandate. EAPP is pleased with what has transpired here and extend the gratitude to the ministers, CEOs, senior officials, and delegates who endeavored to participate in these meetings.

  • Sinapis Launches New Offices as It Turns 13

    What began as a seed in Nairobi, Kenya, has grown into a global community serving thousands of entrepreneurs in over 11 countries.

    Sinapis equips local entrepreneurs in emerging markets to build profitable Kingdom businesses that create jobs, grow the economy, and alleviate poverty.

    The opening of the new Sinapis office is an event to be proud of in the entrepreneurship space. The Sinapis office will be a hub for entrepreneurs and house capital providers such as the Faith Driven Investor community. State-of-the-art training and boardroom facilities with teleconferencing will be available for hire, as well as floating desks. “Our sweet spot is serving Small and Growing Businesses (SGBs) of 5 to 250 employees. Our programs serve them each step of the way from the idea stage through the growth stage.

    We offer training, advisory services, coaching, access to capital, and ongoing alumni support. Most importantly, we train entrepreneurs to integrate Christlike values into their businesses and make disciples
    ,” said Matthew Rhors, CEO of Sinapis. “We have served 8,223 entrepreneurs through workshops and training programs. Since our founding in 2011, our alumni have created over 9,000 new jobs that impact over 45,000
    lives.

    In addition, their companies indirectly impact more than 270,000 people in their supply chains,” added Matthew. Salome Ayugi, the Kenya Country manager said “Sinapis is very excited about this grand opening as it has created an opportunity for us to better serve the people we care about the most, entrepreneurs. We look forward to celebrating our expansion by ensuring everyone interacting with us in our new space has an unforgettable
    experience.”

    The Sinapis network of global partners offering our training now includes partners in Brazil, Burundi, Egypt, Liberia, Mexico, Mongolia, Mozambique, and Cameroon.

  • Ministry of Energy and Petroleum Plans to Maximise the use of LPG Gas with strict Regulations Proposed

    CS Davis Chirchir Ministry of Energy and Petroleum during a LPG Stakeholders meeting

    The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) today held a National
    Stakeholder Workshop and Public Participation on the Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) National Growth Strategy at Kenya School of Government Nairobi.

    The stakeholder Meeting was graced by the Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Energy and Petroleum Davis Chirchir, EPRA Director General Daniel Kiptoo and other Industry Stakeholders.

    The meeting saw discussions on; Improvement on Current Market regulatory framework to solve any loopholes in terms of policies and regulations. The need to ensure that, regulators and traders adhere to the laws governing liquified Petroleum Gas.

    “There is need to have value addition chain in the whole sytem through establishment of LPG Gas storage cylinders to different counties and reach the common mwananchi at an affordable price. Getting the price right, fair to the village people in kenya.
    The people in rural areas to also stop buying charcoal and firewood. As a Government we are serious in delivering clean cooking and also save the environment.
    We target to distribute Gas cylinder at 1kg at an affordable price, through also following all regulations required and locally Manufactured as part of bottom up economy model approach.” Said Davis Chirchir CS Energy and Petroleum.

    He also appealed to the Stakeholders and energy sector to embrace the new regulations.

    Yusuf Osman Chairman Enforcement Unit on LPG observed that, they are mandated to ensure no infringement on the LPG product is witnessed.
    The trend of counterfeit LPG product must end and curbing this by proper pricing, harmonized licencing to curb counterfeit,
    To enlighten the public on buying authentic and original products and through Curbing the illegal Gas trade.
    Consumer are also advised to source the LPG products from Genuine sellers and dealers.

    In addition, the Director General EPRA Daniel Kiptoo ibserved that, the problem on LPG needs to be solved by the LPG dealers.
    There is need to be ready for price regulations, issues like inflation of gas cylinders should be delt with and also added that, Schools and Institutions are advised to turn to LPG gas inorder to save environment.
    The incident of Gas explosion witnessed last month Embakasi was due to poor enforcement of the law. He further noted that,
    Education to the consumers is also needed to avoid incidents such as that in future.

  • BRAZIL MULTI-SECTORAL TRADE MISSION TO NAIROBI, KENYA 2024 KICKS OFF TOMORROW

    Brazil Trade Mission in Kenya is expected to start tomorow 26 – 28 February 2024 at Villa Rosa Kempinski, Nairobi.

    CECIEx – Brazilian Council for Import and Export Companies and Apex Brasil, will lead a business delegation on a Trade Mission to East Africa – Nairobi from 26th to 28th February.

    The Trade Mission forms part of CECIEx (Brazilian Council for Import and Export Companies) and Apex Brasil’s objective to identify and create export markets for Brazilian value-added products and services.

    It will also serve to promote Brazilian products, whilst creating business partnerships between business communities of Kenya and select East African countries.

    The Trade Mission is open to all Kenyan companies directly or indirectly active in the Sectors of Agro, Food & Beverage, FMCG, Home & Construction, Interiors & Furniture, Import & Export, Clothing & Footwear, Cosmetics & Personal Care, Automotive Sector and Farm and Agricultural products
    The aim of the Brazil – East Africa Trade Mission is to network, exchange knowledge, develop trading and collaborative relationships, promote bilateral trade, enhance regional and international trade and explore investment opportunities between Brazil and Kenya. The event will bring participating Brazilian companies into
    contact with potential agents, importers, distributors/ wholesalers, retailers, joint venture partners, local businesses and
    Government agencies in Kenya. Hosted Buyers from Tanzania, Ethiopia and Rwanda will also be present at the event.

    The Brazilian companies will be connected and introduced with key potential business partners in Kenya with prearranged one-on-one Live In-Person B2B meetings as well as commercial site visits.
    The event is supported by Sao Paulo Chamber of Commerce, The Embassy of Brazil in Nairobi, Kenya National
    Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KNCCI)and B2B Africa Ltd.

  • CAK LAUNCHES LAW DIGEST AS INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION NETWORK ADVOCACY WORKSHOP CLOSES

    The Competition Authority has today launched a Competition and Consumer Protection Law Digest. The publication provides concise but detailed briefs on select matters that the Authority has handled since establishment in August 2011 to June 2022.

    The main objective of the
    Digest, which has been developed in collaboration with the National Council for Law Reporting (Kenya Law), is to enhance understanding of competition and consumer protection law in the country, expose stakeholders to the Authority’s decision-making processes, and further develop
    jurisprudence.

    “In the course of executing our mandate, the Authority endeavors to be highly transparent, predictable and accountable to all our stakeholders. The Digest has been developed in fulfillment of this aspiration,” said Mr. Shaka Kariuki, the Authority’s Board Chairman.

    The cases covered in the Digest relate to Mergers & Acquisitions, Restrictive Trade Practices and Consumer Protection, and Abuse of Buyer Power. The Digest also provides detailed accounts of
    the market inquires and studies the Authority has conducted in various sectors in a bid to address anti-competitive and consumer welfare concerns and, more importantly, inform policy decisions.
    Finally, the Digest contains judicial decisions that the Authority has been party to at the
    Competition Tribunal and the High Court.

    One of the goals under the Authority’s Strategic Plan is entrenching the CAK as a center of excellence for competition and consumer protection law. It is in furtherance of this objective that the Authority prioritized the development and dissemination of the Digest, outlining the
    procedural and substantive application of the Competition Act.

    “The Authority generates and proactively publishes information regarding our mandate execution, including determinations, orders, and market studies, which are available in disparate
    formats and locations,” said Dr. Adano Wario, Acting Director-General.

    “The Digest now provides a one-stop reference for stakeholders. This publication is the first of many that the Authority plans to produce. We look forward to receiving feedback regarding the inaugural edition from stakeholders,” he added.

    The Digest is available free of charge on the Authority’s Website https://rb.gy/3zycxq

    The launch of the Digest was the culmination of the two-day 2024 International Competition
    Network (ICN) Advocacy Workshop which the Authority organized under the theme Bouncing Back: Competition Advocacy and Resilience to Global Shocks. The Workshop unpacked the role of advocacy in advancing the tenets of competition law enforcement, thereby supporting recovery of economies from disruptions. Competition law practitioners from 36 countries, as well as other stakeholders, discussed relevant
    issues relating to enforcement of competition law and exchanged best practices. The Workshop
    provided an opportunity for stakeholders to foster collaborations that will advance competitive markets in their respective jurisdictions.

    “The ICN is a peer forum of over 135 competition law practitioners from across the World. It was therefore an honor for Kenya, through the Authority, to win the bid to host the event. The onus is now on all the delegates to execute the recommendations and learnings from the Workshop in
    their jurisdictions, while tailoring them to their unique circumstances,” said Mr. Kariuki.

    The Competition Authority of Kenya (‘the Authority’) is established under section 7 of the Competition Act No.12 of 2010 (‘the Competition Act’). The Authority enforces the Competition Act with the objective of enhancing the welfare of Kenyans by, among other roles, undertaking advocacy initiatives to enhance knowledge of and compliance with the law.
    Competition advocacy refers to a collection of activities that promote a competitive environment in markets through non-enforcement mechanisms, including creating awareness about the benefits of competition to the public and the economy.