The **Best Western Plus Meridian Hotel** in **Nairobi** is up for sale at an asking price of **Sh1.29 billion**, according to a listing by **Knight Frank**. This sale occurs amid a challenging period for the hospitality sector, despite claims of overall industry growth.

• The asking price for the **Best Western Plus Meridian Hotel** is **Sh1.29 billion**.
• **Kenya Hotel Keepers Association** Chairman **Mike Macharia** insists the industry is robust despite some hotel exits.
• **Nairobi** has seen over **2,000** new hotel rooms added in the past **18 months**, increasing competition.

Loans to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Kenya have surged by 2 percent to Sh153 billion this year, surpassing the annual target of Sh150 billion.

• MSME lending exceeded its target by Sh3 billion, reaching Sh153 billion, demonstrating robust growth.
• The Kenya Bankers Association (KBA), represented by CEO Raimond Molenje, confirmed banks' commitment to strengthening MSMEs.
• The newly released Nature Positive Financing Assessment Report identified potential investment opportunities in sectors like manufacturing and agriculture worth up to Sh19.4 trillion ($150 billion) over the next decade.

Umeme Limited has issued a profit warning after reporting a significant net loss of USh 166.7Bn (KSh 6.1Bn) for the half year ended June 30, 2025. This follows the expiry of its 20-year electricity distribution concession in March, leading to a sharp decline in financial performance.

• Revenue plunged by 56% to USh 503.5Bn, down from USh 1,151.8Bn in H1 2024.
• Umeme received USh 433.8Bn (KSh 16.0Bn) from the Government of Uganda as part of a buy-out amount, boosting its cash reserves despite the losses.
• The company has declared a formal dispute with the Government of Uganda over the final buy-out amount and is preparing for arbitration after talks failed.

Pepsi Beverages Kenya has secured an exclusive agreement to supply its soft drinks and water on all Skyward Airlines flights. This partnership expands Pepsi's reach into the Kenyan travel market, offering its products to Skyward's 26,000 monthly passengers.

• Skyward Airlines operates approximately 547 flights a month across 11 domestic and regional routes.
• Country Manager John K’Otieno stated that the deal ensures Pepsi's brands are enjoyed by families across Kenya and the region.
• This agreement positions Pepsi in an industry where food and beverage choices are closely tied to passenger satisfaction.