The Social Health Authority (SHA) has started disbursing Sh11.1 billion to hospitals across Kenya to settle approved claims under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). This move aims to alleviate financial strain on healthcare providers and ensure the continuity of medical services.

• Sh11.1 billion being disbursed to settle approved claims.
• The disbursement is being managed by the Social Health Authority (SHA).
• The payments began on March 13 and are scheduled to conclude by March 19.

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) has decided to maintain current fuel pump prices for the upcoming month, despite a recent surge in global oil prices attributed to tensions in the Middle East.

• Super petrol will continue to retail at Sh178.28 per litre, diesel at Sh166.54, and kerosene at Sh152.78.
• The EPRA made this decision even as the average landed cost of imported fuel rose significantly between January and February.
• This comes amidst intensified global supply concerns and a surge in international benchmark Brent crude oil prices to above $100 per barrel.

KCB Group is targeting a market entry into Ethiopia by the end of 2026 through the acquisition of a local bank. The Kenyan lender has finalized its shortlisting process and identified a potential target entity.

• KCB Group aims to expand its regional footprint in Ethiopia.
• The bank plans to finance the acquisition using proceeds from the sale of National Bank of Kenya.
• Entry may involve navigating Ethiopian regulations on foreign shareholding, which currently caps at 49 percent but allows for exceptions by the National Bank of Ethiopia.