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Chinese firm CRBC wins Sh154bn JKIA upgrade contract
The Kenyan government has awarded a Sh154.2 billion contract to Chinese firm CRBC for the expansion and modernization of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). This has triggered a fresh legal showdown, with the government through the Attorney-General asking the High Court to dismiss a petition challenging the procurement process. A consumer lobby group has contested the tender, reigniting the legal dispute.
Omtatah questions Sh101bn in 'other expenses' budget allocations
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has raised serious concerns regarding a substantial allocation of Sh101.37 billion in the proposed 2026/27 national budget categorized as 'Other Operating Expenses,' arguing it lacks transparency. Meanwhile, numerous government agencies are failing to comply with President William Ruto's directive to migrate services to the e-Citizen platform, with 1,695 services yet to be migrated, significantly lagging behind the targeted transition rate. Separately, Nandi County has emerged as the leader in development spending absorption, achieving the highest rate nationally according to a recent report.
Kenya's China loan revamp sparks wider interest in yuan switch, AidData says
Kenya's successful conversion of Chinese loans from US dollars to Chinese yuan to lower borrowing costs has generated significant interest from at least five other countries, including Ethiopia, Mozambique, Zambia, Pakistan, and Indonesia, according to a study by AidData. Kenya has also significantly increased the duty-free allowance for travellers, raising the threshold to Sh260,000 for goods brought into the country. This change aims to ease the tax burden on returning Kenyans and other visitors.
Ex-Uchumi workers petition Parliament over unpaid dues
Former employees of Uchumi Supermarkets have petitioned the Kenyan Parliament regarding unpaid salary arrears, gratuity, and terminal benefits, years after the retailer was placed under a recovery programme. Separately, Eldoret traders represented by the Bar, Hotels and Liquor Traders Association of Kenya (BAHLITA) are calling for a review of the proposed Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill, citing concerns that it may negatively impact small businesses and foster illicit trade.
