Kenyan startups secured Sh16.3 billion in funding during the first half of 2026, a slight decrease from the previous year, according to Africa: The Big Deal.

• Kenyan startups raised Sh16.3 billion in the first half of 2026.
• Kenya ranked third in Africa for startup funding, behind Egypt (Sh42.3 billion) and Nigeria (Sh32.8 billion).
• This follows a strong 2025 performance where Kenyan startups raised approximately Sh126 billion, driven by clean energy ventures.

The founder of Kenyan Afro-luxury fashion brand Zanta Adeyde, Anyango Omondi, was inspired to create her business from her previous work in a Kenyan abattoir, transforming animal by-products into high-end fashion items.

• Zanta Adeyde, founded in 2015, transforms animal by-products into jewelry and leather goods.
• The business started with Sh25,000 in savings.
• Anyango Omondi works with women and young artisans in Kibera.
• The brand aims to redefine global luxury through sustainable African design, heritage preservation, and social impact.

A Kenyan skincare retailer, The Ivy League Beauty Shop, has introduced a unique payment platform called the "Skincare Wallet" to overcome customer purchasing barriers related to upfront costs.

• The platform, launched in April 2026, allows customers to spread payments for premium skincare products over time, a strategy inspired by Kenya's 'lipa pole pole' (pay slowly slowly) culture.
• Joseph Sosi, the founder of The Ivy League Beauty Shop, noticed customers delaying purchases due to price, leading to the implementation of this embedded finance solution.
• The Skincare Wallet has attracted over 130 users and integrates payments through mobile money, with plans to add Visa and credit card options, offering interest-free instalments.