Co-operative Bank of Kenya and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) have signed a Sh13 billion ($100 million) financing deal to boost foreign currency access for Kenyan businesses.

• The initial Sh6.5 billion ($50 million) tranche utilized a cross-currency swap, marking the first use of KESONIA as a benchmark rate.
• Key organizations involved are Co-operative Bank of Kenya and EBRD.
• The financing targets businesses in sectors like manufacturing and agriculture, enhancing access to dollar-denominated loans and trade finance.

The newly formed Pack Hunters Investment Consortium is exploring strategies to mobilize private capital for crucial infrastructure projects in Kenya.

• The consortium aims to bridge the funding gap for national infrastructure needs by leveraging private sector investment.
• Key players include the National Infrastructure Fund (NIF), represented by its CEO James Mworia, and consortium president Hosea Kili.
• Discussions also focused on potential policy changes, such as using Development Real Estate Investment Trusts (D-REITs) and offering tax incentives for infrastructure bonds.

The rising university enrolment in Kenya is fueling a new investment frontier in student housing, with developers and investors shifting focus to Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA).

• The increasing university student population is driving a high demand for safe and affordable accommodation near campuses.
• Developers and institutional investors are actively seeking opportunities in the PBSA sector.
• Key considerations for students and parents include proximity to campus, reasonable pricing, and essential amenities like reliable water, electricity, and internet.