Kenya Mining Sector Lobby Sends Letter To Head of State

Nairobi, Kenya 31st December 2023

The Kenya National Chamber of Mines early today morning in a letter addressed to His Excellency President and Commander in Chief of the Kenya Defense Forces Dr William Samoe Ruto outlined the potential of the Kenya Mines industry and expressed commitment by the industry to spur growth in the sector and increase the contribution to Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product GDP in line with the ruling regimes bottom Up economic transformation agenda. Here is a copy of the letter to his excellency the president by President of the Kenya Chamber of Mines Dr. Kanyoro Patrick

Attn: H.E Dr. William Ruto, C.G.H. President of the Republic of Kenya
Commander-in-Chief of Kenya Defense Forces
Your Excellency,
The Kenya Chamber of Mines (KCM) is the authoritative body in Kenya representing the interests of miners, exploration companies, mineral dealers, mineral processors, suppliers and professionals in Kenya. Established in the year 2000, KCM serves the artisanal and small scale miners as well as the large scale operators across Kenya. KCM currently is the voice of nearly one million stakeholders, engaged at various levels across Kenya’s mineral sector value chain.
KCM is deeply proud of the contribution our members and all actors across Kenya’s mineral value chain have made in developing Kenya’s nascent mining industry as it evolves into a robust ecosystem. At the least, KCM remains focused on working with the Kenya Kwanza administration to demystify mining as an economic activity. Over the last decade, the mining industry has unfortunately only managed a meagre average of 0.7% to Kenya’s GDP, despite its latent potential. Kenya boasts a strategic geological and geographic location as well as an unparalleled endowment with well trained, skilled and innovative manpower. As an industry, we are certain that we can drive our sector’s contribution to 10% to Kenya’s GDP; more than USD 10 billion well before year 2030. We are the sector that offers the promise for employment and wealth creation at the least cost to the exchequer, across Kenya. Mining as an economic activity has the capacity to create well over two (2) million jobs besides the obvious benefit to contributing towards Kenya’s industrialization.
1

Excellency, as the Chairperson and Coordinator of the Committee of the African Heads of State and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC) you are well aware of the ravages climate change is wrecking on our economy and communities. Climate change has aggressively and unrelentingly battered Kenya’s core sectors; agriculture and tourism. This has adversely impacted our export earning capacity, cost and standards of living, unabated inflationary tendencies and acute foreign currency shortages. The mining sector without a doubt offers brilliant counter measures to support rural livelihoods, Kenya’s current account and economic outlook. The mineral value chain’s climate dependence is minimal plus the commodity prices in green minerals such as; lithium, graphite, copper, cobalt, nickel, etc. continue to skyrocket, buoyed by soaring global demand for a decarbonized world; batteries to power homes, electric vehicles and tech devises as the world moves to a greener net zero future. Kenya can and should be part of this green mineral revolution; now not tomorrow.
Excellency Sir, despite Kenya’s well endowed geology and a hardworking populace, the sector has been dogged and held back by lack of information to the citizenry on the opportunities that exist now and in the future. Mining as an economic activity was very key cog in the colonial economy, yet independent Kenya has not enjoyed the obvious benefits that accrue from this God given opportunity. The much touted Mining Act 2016 that replaced the colonial relic referred to as the Mining Act 1940 gave a ray of hope that is yet to delivered the benefits to the citizenry. The decision by the Cabinet for a partial lifting of the moratorium in October 2023 was a sigh of relief to the industry constricted since 2019. We further appreciate your patriotic and candid action of decriminalizing artisanal mining and by dint of the action by the cabinet formalizing the artisanal miners’ subsector. Your commitment to the sector is evident and the recent appointment of the Chairperson of the Mineral Rights Board is a step in the right direction. We appreciate the various actions by the State Department for Mining (SDM) geared towards reinvigorating the sector through a consultative approach by engaging all stakeholders. The approach and strategy by the State Department for Mining is spot on and with sustained open and inclusive consultations, we shall all without doubt bear much fruit in the year 2024 and beyond. With all hands on deck, it will be feasible to have the mining sector contribute at least 10% to Kenya’s gross domestic product well before 2030.
The decision to lift the moratorium and have the Mineral Rights Board commence operations will go a long way in having the applications for the various mineral rights considered, within reasonable time. It is the efficient and timely issuance of prospecting and mining licenses and permits that will attract both direct domestic and foreign investors and transform the sector. Kenya as a nation deserves a seat at the table of countries that leverage on its natural resources for the current and future generations. We must work together on creating a balance between people, profits and the planet. The industry appreciates the decision by the Cabinet to have some minerals now enlisted as strategic. This is a noble initiative that must be supported by all. As industry, we seek further engagements to ensure that the transition is seamless and does not discourage investments, especially for green garnet and copper. Industry players fully support the Kenya Kwanza administration policy on value addition as our finite resources must yield maximum benefits for citizens while delivering a fair return to the investors. Value addition, progressive and mineral specific, will unlock real employment and wealth creation opportunities.
Your Excellency, the exchequer without doubt needs enhanced and purposeful domestic resource mobilization, with appropriate import substitution strategies. As sector players, we are aware that the government is losing enormous revenue due to smuggling and this needs honest engagements with all stakeholders. The Artisanal and
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Small Scale Miners (ASMs) are in mining as a business for basic livelihood needs; food, school fees, clothing, shelter, medicare, etc. KCM leadership and membership fully support of the Bottom Up Transformation Agenda (BETA). Indeed, there could be no better sector to roll out the agenda; mining offers that platform. ASMs, especially those in gemstones and gold, will greatly benefit from joining cooperatives as they will have the opportunity to ride on economies of scale, both in production and marketing. Kenya has an opportunity to stand as a bastion of investment and economic progress by embracing the concept of madini jua kali. This will facilitate local communities mine and aggregate mineral ores that they can sell to mineral dealers and processors.
Your Excellency, we thank your government for extending respectable budgetary support to the State Department for Mining so as to facilitate the staff render service and reach out to the field. We yearn to see more geologists and mining engineers render technical support to the ASMs across villages in Kenya. This kind gesture will facilitate investments through exploration, mining, mineral dealership and processing by more Kenyans. And perhaps an independent authority or mineral council that will consist of captains of the mining industry and technocrats can leapfrog the sector to unprecedented levels, making it truly a growth sector. This country is blessed with resources and under your leadership, the nation has the opportunity to transform lives and livelihoods through responsible mining.
Finally, Your Excellency Sir, we count on your leadership to realize Kenya’s mineral potential and transform lives across Kenya: from Turkana to Taita Taveta, Kisumu to Kitui, Marsabit to Makueni, Kakamega to Kwale and across the breadth of this great nation. Our dream deferred for the last sixty years; we believe, can be a reality with servant leadership. KCM and stakeholders in the mining sector across Kenya remain open to engaging at all times. As you lead Kenya in 2024 and beyond, “plenty be founded within our boarders” as well take counsel from Deuteronomy 8: 7-10 “For the
you.”
God bless you. God bless Kenya. Yours sincerely,
Dr. Kanyoro Patrick
Chairman – Kenya Chamber of Mines

Airtel Africa registers its 150 millionth customer

Africa, 19 December 2023: Airtel Africa has registered its 150 millionth customer. Airtel Africa is very proud to give millions of people access to reliable and high-quality digital and mobile money services, often for the first time. Led by the purpose of transforming lives, connecting 150 million customers is a significant milestone that underscores the company’s commitment to enriching the lives of its customers. Looking forward, Airtel Africa is focused on further expansion, increased innovation, and continued investments to ensure a digitally empowered future for all.
The growth reflects Airtel Africa’s commitment to reaching more people, with more services, in more places than ever before. By bringing mobile banking, data, and telecoms to underserved communities across sub- Saharan Africa, Airtel Africa is driving financial and digital inclusion and helping to unlock the potential of people, businesses, and societies.
In response to the increased demand for accessible and affordable services, Airtel Africa is continuing to expand its network and invest in the future through fiber and 5G. This is supported by new, best-in-class digital products, services, and content.
Airtel Africa’s Group CEO, Segun Ogunsanya, would like to thank each one of the stakeholders for their continued commitment and support in helping the company reach this milestone. But as everyone knows, this is just the beginning of a journey that will see many more milestones in the coming years.

Global Credit Rating Firm, Fitch Ratings assigns I&M Group Plc and I&M Bank Kenya National Long-Term Ratings of ‘A+(ken)’ with Stable Outlooks

21st December 2023: Global credit rating agency Fitch Ratings has assigned I&M Group Plc (the Group) and its core banking subsidiary I&M Bank in Kenya (the Bank) National Long-Term Ratings of ‘A+(ken)’ with stable outlooks relative to that of other Kenyan issuers.
Both entities have also been assigned Long-Term Issuer Default Ratings (IDRs) of ‘B’ with a negative outlook. The respective negative outlooks mirror the outlook on the sovereign rating.
These ratings are driven by their standalone creditworthiness and are also reflective of the business resilience and a solid strategic focus by all the business units across the East African region and beyond.
“I&M Group’s business profile is underpinned by its established banking franchise in Kenya and growing regional businesses, which provide some competitive advantages and revenue diversification’’, Fitch Ratings said in a statement which also read, “I&M Bank is a Tier 1 bank in Kenya with a moderate domestic market franchise of around 6% of sector loans and 5% of sector deposits at end-1H23.”
Commenting on the report from Nairobi, I&M Group’s Regional Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Kihara Maina noted that the Group is embarking on its 3rd iteration of their iMara Strategy (2024 – 2026) which is focused on impacting lives through expansion into new horizons in terms of regional operations, segments served, and products offered.
“As a group we are pleased with this rating by Fitch which indicates strong profitability and reasonable capital buffers amidst challenging operating conditions. We remain focused on implementation of the refreshed strategy to deliver on our short- and medium-term objectives,” said Mr. Maina.

Joan Okorodudu Announces Plan to Scout And Empower Diverse Models from Kenya

Nairobi, Kenya – December 20, 2023, Joan Okorodudu, the founder of Isis Modelling Agency, one of the most prestigious modelling agencies in Africa, has announced her plan to revolutionize the modelling industry by scouting and empowering talented models from all over Kenya and the continent.
Okorodudu met with local and international media personalities on Wednesday at Isis Models Nairobi office at Darosa Plaza, Karen, to share her vision and strategy for the upcoming year.

She revealed that she will be launching a nationwide talent hunt to discover and nurture models from remote and marginalized areas such as Turkana, Samburu and West Pokot. The selected models will have the opportunity to participate in the next edition of Africa’s Next Super Model, a prestigious modelling competition that showcases Africa’s finest talent in the modelling industry.
Okorodudu emphasized that her goal is to make Isis Models more inclusive and diverse, where girls of any size, height, colour can showcase their talents and represent the beauty and diversity of Africa.

“Isis Models will be inclusive to stay ahead of the trend by making sure that black girls in Kenya and Africa get the opportunity of the runway,” she said.
Okorodudu also highlighted the achievements of Isis Models in the past few years, such as scouting young girls from South Sudan even in the Kakuma Refugee Camp, and helping them launch successful modelling careers in the US, UK, Paris, and other international markets.
She also announced that she had decided to make Kenya the headquarters of Isis Models, after the country hosted its inaugural Africa’s Next Super Model event on October 28, 2023. She said she will create a fashion hub in the country that will create opportunities for fashion designers, make-up artists and models.
She also revealed that she will bring international fashion brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucchi, and other brands to Kenya to work with black models and turn them into world-class professional supermodels.
Okorodudu expressed her optimism and excitement about the future of modelling in Africa and urged the media and the public to support her initiative.

Kenya Airways Leases Aircraft to Enhance Operational Efficiency over the Festive Season

Nairobi, 20th December 2023 – Kenya’s national carrier, Kenya Airways (KQ) has signed a short-term lease agreement with Hi Fly, one of the world’s leading lease and charter specialist airlines to enhance operational efficiency during the peak festive season.

The ACMI lease will see the immediate introduction of an A330 Airbus into the KQ fleet to support operational efficiency as well as enhance capacity in the market.
Commenting on the new development, Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO, Allan Kilavuka said that the airline needed to take practical steps in the short term to address the pertinent challenges in the market. “With the current capacity constraints on the back of the growing demand for airline travel, we need to balance our customers’ immediate needs by bringing more capacity into the market,” said Kilavuka.

The arrival of the aircraft will also support the anticipated increased number of travellers following the recent announcement by President William Ruto on ending visa requirements for all visitors to Kenya starting January in 2024 making Kenya visa-free country.

According to Kilavuka, this was the quickest way to immediately deal with capacity challenges because it enables us to get an aircraft that is ready to fly. “With the arrival of the aircraft, we expect to see improved operational stability and efficiency, as well as enhanced capacity for the convenience of our passengers,” noted Kilavuka.
The wide-bodied aircraft has a capacity for 299 passengers, split into 24 in the business cabin and 275 in the economy class. And as a wide-bodied plane, it augments the existing cargo space with additional belly capacity.

Mdundo.com and Safaricom Launch KSH5 24HOUR SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE FOR MIXTAPE MUSIC LOVERS

· Earning Opportunities for Artists: The partnership also addresses the issue of artists that struggle to monetize their music.



· Exposure: DJs play a pivotal role in the music industry. By including songs from emerging Kenyan artists in these mixes, the partnership will help the artists gain exposure to a broader audience, both locally and internationally.


· Variety: DJ mixes often feature a variety of songs, including those from established and emerging artists. This diversity allows emerging artists to have their music heard alongside more well-known tracks, giving them a chance to stand out and gain more listenership.

Nairobi, 18th December June 2023: Mdundo.com in partnership with Safaricom, has unveiled a new subscription service that will enable Kenyans to access DJ Mixes at Ksh 5 per day. The service also aims at improving monetization of music among artists and reshape user experiences.

The service, which is exclusive to Safaricom customers, can be accessed by registering via http://www.mdundo.com/djmixes, after which customers can discover new artists or enjoy unlimited music downloads and fresh DJ mixes daily.

By providing a consistent income stream, the partnership supports artists in their pursuit of sustainable music careers. A healthy financial pipeline allows artists to focus on creating more music and developing their talent.

“Collaborating with Safaricom to introduce our subscription plan is a partnership that re-enforces our commitment to enriching lives through music. Together, we are unlocking amazing benefits for music and DJ Mixes enthusiasts. Our collaboration with Safaricom not only enhances the user experience but also underscores our shared vision of making music an integral part of everyday life,” says Martin Neilsen, CEO – Mdundo.com.

Mdundo’s user growth stood at 29.2 million monthly active users in September 2023, up from 21.5 million in September 2022 representing a 36% growth. Mdundo’s focus is to deliver a locally relevant service and content to 613 million mobile subscribers in Africa expected by 2025.

“Our goal is to provide Kenyans freedom, choice and control over the content they consume, and we are delighted to embark on this journey with Mdundo.com. This is a collaboration that shows our commitment to enhancing the digital music landscape and empowering our customers to enjoy their favorite music with ease and convenience,” said Fawzia Ali, Chief Consumer Business Officer – Safaricom PLC.

Safaricom, through in-house propositions such as Baze and Skiza, and partnerships with industry leaders including Mdundo.Com, remains committed to growing Kenya’s creative and music industry.

ALDO OPENS THIRD STORE IN EAST AFRICA AT THE KAREN HUB NAIROBI KENYA

Nairobi, Kenya 15th December, 2023

By Clive Ayuko


WAMA International Group, a holding company that oversees franchise operations for Also stores worldwide
across Africa is celebrating a successful partnership with Aldo Group International
by opening the third ALDO Store in Nairobi at the Hub Karen Mall. The first store
at the Sarit Centre in Westlands Nairobi, Kenya.

Founded in 1972 Aldo delivers fashion to a diverse customer base at prices that make keeping up with sensational styles a luxury within reach. Every shoe and accessory according to the store plays a role and the newly opened store has an up-to-date collection which are currently on season worldwide.

The Aldo pillow walk technology which. Company has previously unveiled will hope to elevate the Also customer experience effortlessly effusing style and comfort.


WAMA International has been granted the exclusive license to establish, own, and
operate ALDO stores in Kenya. This follows the Distribution Agreement between
ALDO Group International and Gedeon & Co, SARL. WAMA International’s
expansion plans in East Africa continue to flourish with this exciting partnership
following their successful ventures with various brands in Libya, Rwanda, and
Uganda. The ALDO Group International brings a wide range of fashion footwear and
accessories all offered at accessible prices. This partnership will pave the way for
up to four new stores to open soon, as WAMA International seeks to expand its
presence in the region.
WAMA International expressed their excitement over the new partnership, which
they believe will bring the latest fashion trends and top-quality products to the
Kenyan market. The company is committed to providing a unique shopping
experience to its customers and is confident that the venture will be a success.
The opening of the second ALDO store in Kenya is a significant milestone for the
fashion industry in the region. Customers can expect special promotional discounts
for the grand opening, and the brand promises a unique shopping experience that
has made it a worldwide destination for on-trend fashion footwear and
accessories.

Customers can enjoy upto 50 percent discount during the grand opening and the offer runs for the rest of the opening week.

STALLED GOVERNMENT PROJECT ESTIMATES STAND AT KSH 1.3 TRILLION TREASURY SAYS

Clive Ayuko

Nairobi, Kenya 13th December 2023

The value of stalled government projects is estimated at Ksh1.3 Trillion. This is according to Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning Principal Secretary Dr. Chris Kiptoo was making his opening address during the 2024/2025 Midterm Budget Proposal hearings at the Kenya School of Monetary Studies today morning

Speaking during the ceremony Dr. Kiptoo acknowledged; ” during the financial years 2018/2019 the National Treasure undertook a review of stock of projects in all Ministries, Department and Agencies and found that projects that has stopped being implemented for various reasons to include: having been recieving token budgets which cannot facilitate meaningful implementation and thereby stalled stood at Ksh1.3 Trillion, a situation he argued could be party attributed to government accumulated pending bills amounting to ksh640billion.

“Going forward” He continued to add, ” the government will take stock of all projects to establish if they are aligned with the governments development agenda. Those found to be out of line with the same will be cancelled or suspended until such a time when funds will be available for their implementation.

NATIONAL AND COUNTY GOVERNMENTS OWE SUPPLIERS KSH640 BILLION TREASURY PRINCIPAL SECRETARY KIPTOO SAYS

Clive Ayuko

Nairobi, Kenya 13th December 2023

The National and the County Government owe suppliers of various goods and services procured through is various agencies and departments and ministries approximately Ksh640 Billion. This was made know today during the official opening ceremony for the Public Hearings for the 2024/2025 Medium Term budget proposals at the Kenya School of Monetary Studies.

Speaking during the launch Principal Secretary at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning Dr. Chris Kiptoo acknowledged the indeed the County and National Government are faced with this problem saying, ” Settlement of outstanding pending bills remains a big challenge to the Government”. He continued to add, ” it is estimated that National and county governments could be owing suppliers, merchants and contractors close to Ksh640 Billion from the period between June 2005 and June 2022.”

To deal with the problem Dr. Kiptoo confirmed that the Cabinet has recently approved the establishment of a Pending Bills Verification Committee who will have the mandate to audit all unpaid liabilities for the period between 2005 and 2022.

The Committee Dr. Kiptoo continued to add, ” will be composed to representatives from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), the Institute of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) and the Institute of the Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) who will determine the integrity of all pending bills within a timeline of 12 months.

In conclusion the Principal Secretary urged Kenyans to critically analyse the budget proposals and give input for incorporation in the finalization of the national budget. The public Hearings will be conducted at the Kenya School of Monetary Studies from the 13th to 16th December 2023.

Kenya Airways Successfully Concludes Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) Negotiations

Nairobi, 11th December 2023 – Kenya Airways PLC is pleased to announce the successful conclusion of negotiations of four out of five Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) with the support of our social partners, the most recent being the Kenya Aviation Workers Union (KAWU) in Kenya. Other unions we have engaged with through the year include the General Transport, Petroleum, and Chemical Workers Union (GTPCWU) in Ghana, the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE) in Nigeria, and the Amalgamated and Transport General Workers’ Union (ATGWU) in Uganda.
This achievement is a testament to the collaborative efforts of both parties, particularly dating back to the challenging period brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, which profoundly impacted the aviation sector.
Kenya Airways also acknowledges the resilience and dedication of our unions in navigating these challenges and complexities in our industry today. This achievement reflects our commitment to fostering a harmonious and collaborative work environment. The signing of this agreement signifies a shared vision of progress, mutual respect, and a commitment to the well-being of our employees. It is a testament to what we can accomplish when we come together, listen to one another, and work towards a common goal.
Speaking during the signing ceremony with KAWU officials, Kenya Airways Group MD and CEO, Allan Kilavuka, stated, “KAWU has been extremely patient and supportive of management’s effort to turn around the airline. They have worked with us to systematically address the welfare of our employees. We both agree that we have a convergence of mind to ensure that the airline is sound and sustainable and therefore guarantee the future of our people.”
Kenya Airways further commends KAWU and their leadership, led by Secretary General Moss Ndiema, for their understanding of the economic realities and the importance of affordability and sustainability of these agreements as integral to ensuring the continued success and continuity of the airline.
In response, the Secretary General expressed satisfaction, stating, “KAWU is pleased that, after 8 years since 2014, we have successfully negotiated the long-awaited CBA. We firmly believe that the offer presented by Kenya Airways management is the best achievable under the current economic conditions, serving as a testament to the positive industrial relations at Kenya Airways.”
Key points addressed in the CBAs included staff welfare, fair compensation, affordability, and sustainability.
The recently concluded CBAs will be effective in December 2023 and are set to run for the next two years, 2023/4 to 2025, providing a stable framework for both Kenya Airways and KAWU. The agreement will give the KAWU membership a 22% increment on their basic salary, among other allowances, over the two-year period. This period will afford both parties the opportunity to focus on our shared goals and objectives while upholding the welfare and interests of our dedicated workforce.
Kenya Airways is committed to fostering a collaborative and mutually beneficial relationship with our social partners, including KAWU and looks forward to further strengthening the partnership in the years to come. We appreciate the professionalism, dedication, and constructive approach demonstrated by KAWU throughout this negotiation process.
As we celebrate this milestone, Kenya Airways remains resolute in its commitment to providing exceptional service to our valued customers and contributing to the growth and development of the aviation industry in Kenya.