Kenya Breaks Ground on World’s First Green Garment Factory Made from Recycled Containers

Clive Ayuko

May 20, 2024, Athi River, Kenya

The world’s first green industrial garment factory, constructed from upcycled containers, has begun construction in Athi River EPZ. This pioneering project, backed by a $530,000 investment from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and a $1.3 million loan from Trade Catalyst Africa (TCA), represents a significant step forward in sustainable manufacturing.

Spanning 5,000 square meters, the new green textile center is designed to be a model of sustainability, utilizing solar energy and rainwater harvesting systems. Expected to be completed by December 2024, the factory aims to save an estimated 18 tons of CO2 annually and conserve 1,000 cubic meters of water each year, demonstrating the potential for eco-friendly industrial practices.

The project is a collaboration with Modular Real Estate EPZ Limited (MODULAR), a subsidiary of Container Technology Limited (CONTECH). Duncan Onyango, CEO of Trade Catalyst Africa, emphasized the transformative impact of this initiative: “This investment symbolizes our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable industrial development. By pioneering this unique industrial space, we are setting a new standard for the garment industry and positioning Kenya and Africa as leaders in sustainable manufacturing.”

The global textiles market, valued at approximately $1.5 trillion in 2020, is poised for significant growth. This initiative will place Kenya at the forefront of this expansion, promoting eco-friendly manufacturing practices and enhancing the country’s competitiveness. It is expected to create numerous jobs, particularly for women, boosting Kenya’s export potential and driving economic growth.

Naeem Pasta, CEO of Modular Real Estate EPZ, highlighted the innovative nature of the project: “This project demonstrates that innovative thinking and environmental responsibility can coexist, leading to economic growth and a healthier planet. We are proud to be part of this pioneering effort.”

Significance for Kenya

The green garment and textile center represents a crucial advancement for Kenya’s industrial sector, aligning with the country’s vision of becoming a newly industrialized, middle-income nation. By adopting sustainable practices, Kenya aims to enhance its competitiveness in the global market. The new facility will provide training opportunities and create jobs, particularly benefiting women, thereby empowering local communities and reducing poverty. By setting a precedent for green industrial practices, Kenya can serve as a model for other nations pursuing sustainable development.

TradeMark Africa and Foundation for Civil Society Launch a TZS 2.3Billion Project to Promote Sustainable and Inclusive Trade in Tanzania

Dar Es Salaam Tanzania, 17 May 2024:

The Foundation for Civil Society (FCS) and TradeMark Africa have today sealed a grant agreement to launch a project dubbed Private Sector and CSOs for Inclusive and Greening Trade that will drive sustainable economic growth and inclusive trade practices, addressing the significant systemic challenges in Tanzania’s trade sector.

Funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), Ireland, and Norway, the TZS 2.3billion ($ 900,000), the project seeks to integrate the strengths of private sectors and civil society organisations to promote green economic growth.


Many women in Tanzania, remain in the informal trading sector facing top barriers such as limited access to finance, and inadequate training in trade-related skills. This initiative aims to dismantle these barriers, creating a trading environment that is inclusive and fosters prosperity for all.



The project, which starts immediately, is designed to leverage the unique strengths of the private sector alongside civil society organisations to enhance trade practices that are both inclusive and environmentally sustainable. Over the next 18 months, FCS will implement strategic interventions across multiple trade sectors, focusing on reducing environmental impact and promoting inclusivity in economic benefits.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, TMA Tanzania Country Director Mr. Elibariki Shammy said, “This project is central to our strategic objectives to stimulate trade growth while ensuring that it’s sustainable and inclusive. We believe that through strategic collaborations like this, we can make a significant impact on Tanzania’s trade landscape. Empowering women is not just a moral imperative but a developmental one. Integrating women into trade boosts economic diversity and lifts entire communities. Through this partnership, we aim to develop a trade ecosystem that is inclusive and robust enough to withstand the pressures of global trade demands.”

FCS Executive Director Mr Justice Rutenge expressed enthusiasm about the project’s potential. ” Consumer protection is crucial in today’s global market. Our collaboration with TMA is a monumental step towards establishing fair and green trade practices in Tanzania. We are dedicated to ensuring that the benefits of trade expansion are shared by all, particularly the most vulnerable sectors of our society,” he said.

Mr Rutenge also disclosed that FCS would leverage the unique roles of CSOs and the private sector to address pressing issues of environmental degradation and social inequality.

The initiative also aims to create a trade environment that is inclusive and sustainable by increasing trade opportunities for marginalised groups, collaborating with civil society organisations to address their needs, promoting environmentally friendly trade practices, and enhancing consumer protection. TMA will support marginalised communities through smart-agriculture practices and market readiness programmes, contributing to their sustainable trade growth. Moreover, by advocating for sustainable trade practices, the project seeks to improve trade resilience to climate change, thereby contributing to the long-term viability of Tanzania’s economy and environmental sustainability.

The project also includes the development of innovative digital technologies such as e-learning platforms for smart-agriculture practices, enhancing market readiness, and the global competitiveness of Tanzanian products.

This collaboration represents a model of how public-private partnerships can effectively address systemic challenges in emerging markets, creating pathways for more inclusive and sustainable trade practices.

Tech Skills Key to Fighting Climate Change, Experts Say

Barcelona, May 17, 2024

Experts emphasize that technology and technical skills are crucial in addressing climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering a sustainable future.

Friedrich Huebler, Head of UNESCO-UNEVOC’s International Center for Technical and Vocational Education and Training, stated that tackling climate change necessitates a workforce equipped with both green and digital skills.

“We must find solutions to the global climate crisis, many of which will rely on technology. Therefore, it’s essential to develop a workforce proficient in green skills and digital literacy to create solutions that make our economies and societies greener. This involves not only reducing emissions but also leveraging innovation to transform energy systems, transportation networks, and industries,” Huebler remarked.

Huebler made these comments at the Huawei Green Development Summit during the Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona 2024.

Soledad Patiño, Coordinator of the UNESCO Skills Academy, highlighted the importance of partnerships with private sector entities such as Huawei Technologies in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

“The private sector can provide the expertise and knowledge of rapidly changing labor markets, which is crucial for helping individuals transition from education to employment,” Patiño stated.

The experts also highlighted advancements in energy storage, smart grid systems, and carbon capture and storage (CCS) as essential

Huawei Advocates for Inclusive Connectivity at Connected Africa Summit

Nairobi, April 30, 2024 –  Huawei Kenya is advocating for inclusive connectivity to accelerate national digital transformation

Speaking at the Connected Africa Summit 2024 held in Nairobi last week, Vice President of Huawei Sub-Sahara Africa Mr. Wan Wei highlighted the importance of building network & cloud infrastructure to drive economic growth, social progress, and sustainable development across the continent.

He also presented a proposal for ubiquitous intelligent connectivity networks combined with cloud-based data driven innovation to enable inclusive intelligent service.

“Beyond mere connectivity, such infrastructure holds the key to enhancing social welfare, fostering innovation, promoting economic competitiveness, facilitating regional integration, and ultimately advancing the sustainable development agenda in Africa. It is not just a means to an end, but an end in itself, capable of enriching the lives and well-being of all people,” Mr. Wei said.

Mr. Wei provided insights on policy and technical measures to build low-cost rural mobile networks and speed up fibre-optic networks to ensure high-speed broadband for all people, all homes, all businesses, and all institutions. He highlighted the regulatory interventions that can help, such as lower cost wayleaves, tax incentives for investment, infrastructure sharing between power and telecoms infrastructure and lower taxes for affordable devices.

“Through our collective actions and shared commitment, we aim to lay a solid foundation for Africa’s digital future, positioning our continent at the forefront of the global digital revolution. Let us work together diligently and purposefully to build a digital ecosystem that not only empowers our economies but also uplifts our societies and enhances the quality of life for all citizens across Africa. Through the strategic development of Network and Cloud infrastructure, we pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous digital future for our continent,” he said.

Huawei’s exhibition at the Summit included sharing insights on how to speed up the roll-out of fibre-optic networks and lower the build-out costs though technology innovations such as Quick-ODN as well as regulatory interventions, such as the new Building Code that is being reformed to “ensure all new buildings are fibre-optic-ready” as His Excellency President Ruto highlighted in his opening remarks at the Summit. This includes common ducting outside and inside buildings that telecoms companies can use to quickly and easily run their cables into, manholes and easy-access points for engineers to use to connect fibre and run it into properties as well as maintain it, and the provision of equipment rooms or spaces in buildings.

MOST WEALTHY KENYANS CONSIDER HOME COUNTRY BEST FOR BUYING MULTIPLE HOMES NEW REPORT BY KNIGHT FRANK

Clive Ayuko

Nairobi, Kenya 30th April 2024

Most of the High Net worth Individuals in Kenya – persons who purchase homes in with prices valued at US dollar 1 million and above- consider the country as the most ideal location for purchase or ownership of 1st, 2nd, 3rd and subsequent homes.
This according to the the 2024 Annual Wealth Report by the global property consultancy Knight Frank LLP.
The report which derived it’s finding from interviews with private bankers and wealth advisors based in the country also found out that most of the High Net worth Individuals HNWI hold 60 percent of their wealth in home ownership, with 30 percent of these individuals purchasing a home in 2023 with the same 30 percent also planning to buy a home in 2024.

According to the International Monetary Fund IMF Kenya’s Gross Domestic Product GDP projected to grow at an average of 5 percent well above the global average of 3.1 percent and 4.2 percent for world developing and emerging economies a situation which the CEO of Knight Frank Mr. Mark Dunford Kenya Offices said is bringing a resurgence of HNWI’s buying Kenyan property. This to include second and third home purchases in addition to commercial property investments.

Additionally Mr Dunford who was speaking at the Capital Club in Westlands Nairobi argued that most Wealthy Kenyans have taken a step back from investing in foreign countries in favor of investing more money in the country.

Huawei Introduces a series of products and solutions for Wi-Fi 7 campuses.

Nairobi Kenya, 29th April 2024: Huawei introduced a series of products and solutions for Wi-Fi 7 campuses, production networks in the power and transportation industries, and smart home networks, during Huawei Kenya IP & OptiX Club 2024 held in Nairobi under the them  “F5G Advanced, the Foundation for Industry Intelligence”.

Huawei IP & OptiX Club is a platform for IP and optical technology exchanges among industries. It is organized to facilitate the exchange of ideas on the latest solutions, as well as share Huawei’s best practices worldwide. In addition, future trends of the IP and optical industry are also discussed. This year, customers from the Government, Transportation, ISP, Finance, Energy and Commercial industries attended the event to discuss the innovative applications of IP communication, optical fiber communication and optical fiber sensing in their respective industries.

“Our Value proposition is that Huawei invests heavily in our Research and Development (R&D) producing high quality solutions. Our Company is customer focused in approach and we are committed to always improving customer experience. We look forward to continue working with our customers and partners in delivering our innovative and reliable solutions.”  Kevin Wenkai, Managing Director, Huawei Eastern Africa Enterprise said.


Speaking at the event ICT Director, MOIC & DE Mr. Loyford Murithi, congratulated Huawei for the investment the Company continues to make in Kenya and its  continued partnership with the ICT ministry.

“At the Connected Africa Summit, Huawei introduced the future technology development trend in the network and transmission fields. AI will accelerate network intelligence. Advanced technologies such as digital maps will greatly improve network O&M efficiency. fifth-generation fixed network (F5G), fgOTN and 50G PON, those new transmission technologies will speed up fiber to home, to enterprise, to machine, and to computing, building accurate sensing and ultra-broadband, deterministic networks for industries. I wish to thank Huawei for the investment it has and continues to make in Kenya and in its people. We are looking forward to the success of these products and solutions in the Kenyan market and beyond,”  Mr Murithi said.

The essence of intelligent transformation is to provide more intelligent digital services, thereby helping various industries improve efficiency and productivity. Network quality affects the quality of digital services. Thus, in intelligent transformation, improving network quality is the key for improving digital productivity.


Huawei is at the forefront of Kenya’s ICT landscape, pioneering innovative solutions and driving digital transformation across the nation. We are committed to bringing digital to every person, home and organization for a fully connected world To this end, we will drive ubiquitous connectivity and promote equal access to networks that lay the foundation for a digital Kenya and the world. We hope to continue building long-term relationships with you, in both the private and public sector.

Faulu Bank and Tuk Tuk Operators Network Collaborate to Provide Loans for Three-Wheeler Vehicles

NAIROBI, Kenya, 29 April 2024 – Faulu Bank, a leading financial institution committed to inclusive finance, has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the Tuk Tuk Operators Network to offer loans for three-wheeler vehicles. This partnership aims to empower individuals and members of the Tuk Tuk Operators Network by providing them with accessible financing options for entrepreneurship in the transportation sector.

The partnership between Faulu Bank and the Tuk Tuk Operators Network marks a significant milestone in promoting economic empowerment and fostering financial inclusion within communities. By leveraging Faulu Bank’s expertise in financial services and the Tuk Tuk Operators Network’s deep understanding of the transportation industry, the collaboration seeks to address the financing needs of aspiring entrepreneurs and members of the association.

Through this partnership, individuals and the network members will have access to tailored loan products designed specifically for the acquisition of three-wheeler vehicles, commonly known as tuk tuks. These loans will enable entrepreneurs to enter the transportation sector, expand their businesses, and contribute to local economic development.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Tuk Tuk Operators Network to extend loans for three-wheeler vehicles,” said Justus Kittony, Head of Business Growth & Bancassurance at Faulu Bank. “This collaboration reflects our commitment to providing inclusive financial solutions and empowering individuals to achieve their entrepreneurial aspirations. By working together, we can unlock new opportunities for economic growth and prosperity.”

“The partnership with Faulu Bank represents a significant milestone for the Tuk Tuk Association and our members,” said Vincent Were, Lead of the Tuk Tuk Operators Network. “Access to financing has been a longstanding challenge for aspiring tuk tuk operators and the network. Through this collaboration, we aim to overcome these barriers and empower entrepreneurs to thrive in the transportation industry.”

Faulu Bank and the Tuk Tuk Operators Network are committed to ensuring that individuals and the network members receive the support they need to succeed in their entrepreneurial journey. By providing accessible financing options for three-wheeler vehicles, the partnership aims to drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, and foster sustainable development within communities.

Absa Life Assurance Kenya Reports 90% Growth in Headline Earnings

Nairobi, Kenya 26th April 2024

Absa Life Assurance Kenya (Absa Life) recorded a 90% surge in headline earnings, reaching KES. 862 million for the financial year ending December 31, 2023. This impressive growth was fueled by strategic investments in product diversification, digital capabilities, and expanded distribution channels. Despite operating in an unpredictable environment, Absa Life saw double-digit increases in key performance indicators, with insurance services revenues rising by 29% to KES. 5.9 billion and investment income climbing by 27% to KES. 1.1 billion. The company’s Principal Officer and Managing Director, Githanji Waiguru, highlighted the commitment to maintaining a healthy portfolio and driving value for both policyholders and shareholders. With total assets closing at KES. 11.5 billion, up 26% from the previous year, and a return on equity (ROE) of 50.3%, Absa Life distributed KES. 450 million in dividends to shareholders. The adoption of IFRS17 standards underscored the resilience of Absa Life’s financial results, while significant investments in technology infrastructure supported operational effectiveness and efficiency gains. The company’s digital transformation agenda, coupled with a focus on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, positions Absa Life for continued growth and innovation in the Kenyan insurance market.

Art Master Africa Returns for its Sixth Edition, Igniting Creativity Across the Continent

Nairobi, Kenya – April 22, 2024: BIC, a global leader in stationery, lighters, and shavers, has set the stage for the eagerly awaited return of its flagship art competition, Art Master Africa. Now in its sixth edition, the competition beckons creatives from across the region to breathe life into the theme of Ubuntu (One Africa) using the iconic BIC ballpoint pen.

Artists are invited to submit their interpretations of unity and interconnectedness within Africa, encapsulating the essence of Ubuntu through their artistic lens. With submissions open since April 19, participants have a three-month window to craft their masterpieces before the judging panel deliberates and unveils the winners in the final quarter of the year.

In a celebration of creativity and cultural richness, BIC will reward the first, second, and third place winners with prizes of $2,000, $1,000, and $500 respectively. Additionally, nine outstanding artists from across the region will be acknowledged and awarded for their exceptional contributions.

The selected artworks will not only receive recognition but will also be showcased across various platforms, including the newly launched Art Master Africa Metaverse Gallery, transcending geographical boundaries to amplify African talent on a global scale.

Gregory Alibaux, Art Master Africa custodian and Marketing Director for Middle East and Africa at BIC, expressed his enthusiasm for the competition’s evolution, stating, “We are thrilled to launch the highly anticipated Art Master Africa competition once again. This platform continues to empower artists and creatives, fostering self-expression and innovation. This year, with the introduction of the Art Master Africa metaverse gallery, we are breaking new ground and showcasing African artistry to the world.”

Originating in 2017 in South Africa, Art Master Africa has grown into a cultural phenomenon, captivating the imaginations of artists across the Middle East and Africa. Each year, a theme is unveiled, challenging creatives to push the boundaries of their artistic prowess using the humble BIC ballpoint pen. With over 6,000 participants to date, the competition remains a beacon of creativity and cultural exchange.

For aspiring artists and enthusiasts alike, Art Master Africa beckons as a canvas of limitless possibilities, beckoning individuals to unleash their creativity and weave the tapestry of Ubuntu through the strokes of their pens. For more details and to submit your masterpiece, visit Art Master Africa.

Private Sector Urges Ethical AI Framework Amidst East Africa’s Digital Transformation

Nairobi, April 19, 2024 – As East Africa accelerates its digital evolution, the private sector is championing the need for an ethical Artificial Intelligence (AI) framework to guide the region’s technological advancement. At the ‘Digital Transformation in East Africa Conference,’ industry leaders emphasized the imperative of responsible AI adoption, culminating in a call for the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council.

Bringing together over 50 global thought leaders and more than 1000 delegates from 24 countries, the conference, organized by the Aga Khan University, served as a platform to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital era. Amidst discussions on sustainable development and environmental conservation, the necessity of ethical AI surfaced as a paramount concern.

The proposed Advisory Council aims to unite local and international experts to craft guidelines ensuring the ethical utilization of AI technologies across various sectors. This initiative seeks to foster innovation while safeguarding privacy, respecting human rights, and promoting sustainable development practices.

Acknowledging the pivotal role of government in steering technological progress, Hon. Musalia Mudavadi’s representative, Principal Secretary Aurelia Rono, affirmed the government’s commitment to facilitating the adoption of new technologies. Rono expressed eagerness to integrate the conference’s recommendations into legislative agendas, underscoring the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors.

Dr. Sulaiman Shahabuddin, Vice Chancellor of Aga Khan University, commended the government for creating an enabling environment conducive to digital innovation. He emphasized the symbiotic relationship between governmental support and private sector dynamism, essential for propelling Kenya to the forefront of Africa’s digital landscape.

Highlighting the transformative potential of technology in healthcare, Rashid Khalani, CEO of Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, shared insights into the implementation of an Electronic Health Records system. This system promises to enhance patient care, streamline operations, and facilitate localized research efforts across Africa and Asia.

Distinguished speakers, including Ministry of Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy Cabinet Secretary Hon. Eliud Owalo and Google’s Vice President Vint Cerf, underscored the pivotal role of technology in driving socio-economic development. With luminaries from various sectors lending their expertise, the conference marked a pivotal moment in East Africa’s digital journey.

As East Africa navigates the complexities of digital transformation, the resounding call for an ethical AI framework echoes a commitment