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Matatu Strike Drags Into Second Day After Government Talks Collapse
A nationwide matatu strike has entered its second day after negotiations between transport operators and the government failed to reach a resolution on Monday, causing significant disruption for commuters. Police used force to disperse angry protesters on Kamiti Road, where bonfires were lit causing major disruptions to movement. Police also intensified patrols along Kihunguro and Ruiru Bypass to maintain order as the strike continued. Transport along Kamiti Road was paralyzed with no matatus operating on Thika Road, as operators protested against increasing fuel prices.
Treasury to Wait Longer for Sh244bn Safaricom Windfall
The High Court has extended a freeze on the sale of a 15 per cent stake in Safaricom Plc to parent firm Vodacom Group Limited, delaying a potential Sh244.5 billion windfall for the National Treasury. Separately, Equity Group Holdings has reported a significant 24 per cent year-on-year rise in Profit After Tax, reaching Sh19.1 billion for the first quarter ended March 2026, driven by strong performance from its regional subsidiaries and insurance arm. The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industries has also raised concerns that the proposed Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill, 2024 could exacerbate the illicit tobacco trade, estimated to cost the government Sh12 billion annually in lost taxes.
Kenya Pitches AI-Driven Industrial Solutions as Tech Funding Tops Sh134bn
Kenya is showcasing its AI-driven industrial solutions at a major tech summit, aiming to solidify its position as Africa's leading technology investment destination following a significant surge in tech funding for the country. ASUS is strategically positioning Kenya as its regional hub for East Africa, aiming to capitalize on the nation's growing AI adoption among its youth and small to medium-sized enterprises. Meanwhile, TikTok has removed over 820,000 videos in Kenya during the fourth quarter of 2025 as part of a major safety crackdown.
Kenya’s Evolving Crypto Framework Signals Commitment to Global Standards
Kenya is implementing a new framework for virtual asset service providers (VASPs), marking a significant shift towards global standards and aiming for removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list. Spearhead Africa Asset Management has separately launched Kenya's first infrastructure fund on the Nairobi Securities Exchange, enhancing investment opportunities in the nation's capital markets. Former Industrialisation Cabinet Secretary Adan Mohamed has been appointed the new Commissioner General of the Kenya Revenue Authority.
