The value of card payments in Kenya significantly decreased by 11.55 percent in the six months leading up to June 2026, indicating a shift towards alternative payment methods and tighter household budgets.

• The value of card transactions fell to Sh220.04 billion, down from Sh248.8 billion in the same period the previous year.
• Analysis of Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) data highlights the trend, supported by economist Mr Churchill Ogutu.
• Factors contributing to the dip include shrinking disposable income, the impact of global conflicts, and a growing preference for mobile money platforms like M-Pesa, direct mobile banking apps, and cash.

Former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju has urged Members of Parliament to strip the National Treasury of its power to unilaterally determine the amount of public funds transferred to the East African Development Bank (EADB).

• Mr. Tuju argues that granting the Cabinet Secretary discretion over funds from the Consolidated Fund is akin to giving a "blank cheque."
• He is concerned that the proposed East African Development Bank (Amendment) Bill, 2026 offers excessive immunity to the bank's directors, staff, and consultants, potentially shielding them from civil and criminal prosecution.
• Mr. Tuju also highlighted concerns about a provision that deems parliamentary approval of fund disbursements if not completed within 30 days, even if Parliament is in recess.