Kenya and France have signed 11 agreements to boost cooperation in key sectors including transport, energy, and the digital economy. The deals were finalized at State House Nairobi following discussions between President William Ruto and President Emmanuel Macron.

• A significant agreement includes a Sh12.5 billion project for the rehabilitation and modernization of the Nairobi Commuter Rail.
• Key figures involved include President William Ruto and President Emmanuel Macron.
• Other agreements cover digital transformation, cybersecurity, and a joint venture for port infrastructure development estimated at around Sh104 billion.

Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote is considering a shift for his proposed multi-billion dollar oil refinery project, potentially moving it from Tanzania to Mombasa, Kenya.

• The estimated cost of the refinery is between $15 billion and $17 billion.
• The key figure is Aliko Dangote, with a potential decision to be made after discussions with President William Ruto.
• Mombasa is favored due to its deeper port, existing infrastructure, and larger regional fuel market, potentially reducing East Africa's reliance on imported refined fuels.

A proposed 25% excise duty on mobile phones in Kenya's Finance Bill, 2026 could make smartphones unaffordable for low-income households, potentially widening the digital divide.

• A Sh10,000 smartphone could increase to over Sh12,500.
• The Kenyan Treasury aims to raise an additional Sh120 billion in new tax measures.
• Critics argue this contradicts the government's digital transformation agenda and its support for the "hustler economy."

The National Assembly has initiated public consultation on the Finance Bill 2026, which proposes significant tax changes across various sectors.

• The bill aims to generate an additional Sh120 billion in revenue through tax reforms.
• Key legislative bodies involved include the National Assembly's Departmental Committee on Finance and National Planning and the Treasury.
• Proposed changes include a 25 percent excise duty on mobile phones and new taxes on digital financial services, potentially impacting the cost of living and business operations.