Naivas Supermarkets, Kenya’s largest retail chain, has appointed Andreas von Paleske as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), marking the first time a non-family executive will lead the company. He succeeds founder David Kimani, who steps down after 35 years.

• Andreas von Paleske joined Naivas in 2017 as Chief Strategy Officer, a role he held for eight years.
• The appointment is part of a long-term succession plan focused on stability and institutional growth for the retailer, which transformed from a small family-run store in Nakuru, founded in 1990.
• The Mukuha family retains a majority shareholding, and David Kimani will remain engaged as a board adviser.

The Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) has initiated a search for a new Chief Executive Officer as Agnes Mercy Wahome's term concludes next year. Applications for the position are open until October 28, 2025.

• Applicants must possess at least 15 years of relevant work experience and a master’s degree.
• The incoming CEO will be responsible for the day-to-day operations and implementation of board policies.
• The KUCCPS was previously criticized by the Office of the Ombudsman in 2023 for charging students Sh25 per SMS to access placement results.

M-KOPA Holdings Ltd., a prominent African consumer lender, has announced its first-ever annual profit, achieving US$9.2 million in 2024 after a US$20.6 million loss the previous year. This significant milestone was driven by booming credit-financed sales of smartphones and solar devices, with the company now setting its sights on e-mobility for future growth.

• M-KOPA's revenue surged by 66% to US$253.5 million, while its customer base reached seven million, having disbursed over US$2 billion in cumulative credit.
• The Nairobi-based fintech increased its risk-adjusted gross profit by 80% to US$173 million and operating income fivefold to US$51 million.
• The company is expanding into electric mobility, having financed over 4,000 electric motorbikes and collaborating with manufacturers like Ampersand, Spiro, and Roam, and fleet operator Bolt.