TechPression

Tag: Kenya

  • Kenya’s incoming international calls increase by 57%

    Kenya’s incoming international calls increase by 57%

    The number of international voice calls to Kenya increased by a staggering 57.47 percent year-over-year rise or an increase of 48,989,304 during a 12-month period. This was according to statistics from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).

    There were 134,247,370 international incoming voice calls made via mobile in the first quarter of the fiscal year 2024–2025, up from 85,258,066 in the first quarter of the previous year.

    Read also: Telkom Kenya, Rakuten Symphony, Airspan partner on Open RAN testing, knowledge transfer

    Declined outgoing calls 

    On the other hand, there was a minor decrease in the quantity of outgoing international calls from Kenya.

    In the first quarter of 2023/2024, there were 179,701,005 outgoing calls made via mobile phones; in the same quarter of 2024/2025, there were 175,261,235 calls. A traffic jam of 2.47 percent.

    The number of calls outgoing from Kenya is consistently higher than those coming from other countries.

    Regulatory data shows that international SMS traffic is dwarfed by voice calls, which continue to be the most common method of international communication between Kenya and the rest of the world.

    Read also: Safaricom’s M-PESA officially launches Ziidi Money Market Fund in Kenya

    Decreased international text messages

    However, a significant distinction is that Kenya receives a lot more international SMS messages than it sends.

    Notably, outgoing and incoming international text messages have decreased. International incoming SMS traffic decreased by about 9.97 percent during the time under reference. There was a 30.32 percent drop in outbound SMS traffic from 3,739,629 to 2,605,963.

    The majority of this traffic is going to and coming from the East African Community (EAC) nations. Of the inbound mobile voice traffic, 77.70 percent (104,315,553) came from EAC. The region was responsible for 66.29 percent of outgoing calls (116,182,986).

  • Five major Kenyan associations merge to form FinTech Alliance

    Five major Kenyan associations merge to form FinTech Alliance

    Five associations have united to establish the FinTech Alliance (TFA), with the goal of driving the growth and development of Kenya’s fintech industry.

    The alliance established on Thursday January 23, includes the Association of Fintechs in Kenya (AFIK), Fintech Association of Kenya (FINTAK), Digital Financial Services Association of Kenya (DFSAK), Digital Credit Providers Association (DCPAK), and the Blockchain Association of Kenya (BAK).

    The aim of TFA is to create a single voice for Kenya’s fintech ecosystem, advocating for initiatives that will position the country as a global leader in financial innovation.

    Read also: Nigerian fintech Accrue lands $1.58 million seed investment

    “Today marks a significant milestone for Kenya’s fintech sector. By uniting under the FinTech Alliance, we are better positioned to address challenges, seize opportunities, and drive meaningful change in the industry,” said Ali Hussein, spokesperson for TFA.

    Focus on scaling fintech firms and financial inclusion

    The alliance will focus on scaling fintech companies by improving access to finance and resources, while also working with government agencies, regulators, and other stakeholders to create policies that promote innovation, financial stability, and consumer protection.

    TFA plans to use fintech solutions to promote financial inclusion, create jobs, and help improve lives, contributing to Kenya’s economic and social growth.

    The Fintech Association of Kenya (FINTAK) serves as the umbrella body for fintech players in Kenya, aiming to represent and promote excellence in the sector while providing a platform for education, networking, and information sharing among companies, policymakers, and the public. Additionally, FINTAK advocates for sound regulations, financial literacy, and inclusion to enhance consumer trust in digital financial services.

    In parallel, the Digital Financial Services Association of Kenya (DFSAK) primarily represents digital financial service providers, focusing on advancing digital payment systems and promoting financial inclusion. DFSAK ensures that digital services are efficient, secure, and accessible to underserved populations while setting ethical and professional standards in the industry.

    The Digital Credit Providers Association (DCPAK) represents organisations offering digital credit solutions. Its aim is to standardise practices within the sector, advocate for fair regulations, and ensure responsible lending practices that protect consumers while expanding access to credit.

    Meanwhile, the Blockchain Association of Kenya (BAK) promotes blockchain technology adoption by advocating for its integration across various industries. BAK’s goals include educating stakeholders about blockchain’s potential, influencing policy development, and fostering innovation in decentralised technologies.

    Read also: Safaricom’s M-PESA officially launches Ziidi Money Market Fund in Kenya

    Together, these associations contribute significantly to the growth and regulation of Kenya’s evolving fintech landscape.

    Strengthening Kenya’s position in the global fintech space

    Kenya has been recognised as a center for fintech innovation, and TFA’s formation aims to build on this by fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and competitiveness with international organizations. Through these efforts, the alliance hopes to unlock new opportunities for businesses and consumers, reinforcing Kenya’s position in the global fintech space.

  • Kenya scraps electronic travel authorisation for 52 African countries

    Kenya scraps electronic travel authorisation for 52 African countries

    Kenya has scrapped the electronic travel authorisation (eTA) for incoming visitors from other African nations per a new directive issued by the State House on Tuesday.

    The approval was given at the first cabinet meeting of the year, which was presided over by President William Ruto on Tuesday.

    Read also: Kenya’s Interior Ministry mandates Facebook, other social media companies to establish physical offices

    Somalia and Libya excluded 

    Despite relaxing its travel rules for African countries, Kenya withheld the eTA from Somalia and Libya citing “security concerns.”

    “As part of efforts to support open skies policies and tourism growth, a key proposal is to grant eTA exemptions to all African countries — except Somalia and Libya — due to security concerns,” the statement said..

    “This initiative aims to promote regional integration and ease travel across the continent.”

    According to the statement, East African Community (EAC) like Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda will continue to benefit from a six-month stay under the bloc’s free movement norms, but the majority of African tourists will only be permitted a two-month stay.

    “To improve efficiency, an expedited eTA processing option will be introduced, allowing travellers to receive approval instantly, with processing time capped at 72 hours based on operational capacity,” the State House added.

    “Additionally, the introduction of an Advanced Passenger Information/Passenger Name Record system will enhance pre-screening, strengthen security, and streamline passenger processing at entry points.”

    Read also: Kenya Space Agency denies demanding compensation from India over fallen rocket debris

    Enhancing travellers’ experience at all Kenyan airports 

    According to the statement, the cabinet gave the secretaries of the national finance, transportation, interior, and tourism departments a week to assess, report, and suggest recommendations for enhancing the traveller experience at all Kenyan airports.

    Kenya implemented a “visa-free” policy last year, requiring tourists to register online for approval before departing their nations.

    But the eTA, which eliminated the need for a visa for all travellers, was criticised for being a “visa by another name.”

    The eTA fee, which is $30, is only valid for 90 days.

  • Safaricom’s M-PESA officially launches Ziidi Money Market Fund in Kenya

    Safaricom’s M-PESA officially launches Ziidi Money Market Fund in Kenya

    On Tuesday, Safaricom, in collaboration with two fund managers, Standard Investment Bank and ALA Capital Limited, announced the formal launch of Ziidi MMF, a money market fund that uses M-PESA’s convenience to give clients an easier, quicker, and more intelligent way to invest and build wealth.

    Ziidi MMF is a unit trust that allows users to invest money from their M-PESA wallet into their Ziidi account and receive daily interest. Interest accruals are deposited into the investor’s Ziidi wallet, enabling their funds to increase in value.

    Read also: Safaricom M-PESA partners with Awash to enhance digital payment in the insurance industry

    Customers can use the product to manage, build, and control their wealth and finances by making free deposits and withdrawals through their M-PESA wallet.

    The Ziidi Money Market Fund has more than 450,000 opt-ins and more than KES 2.85 billion in assets under management since it opened to the public in December 2024.

    The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) regulates the fund, which is run by a group of fund managers. The launch demonstrates Safaricom’s dedication to promoting financial inclusion by making wealth creation and investing easy and available to everybody.

    “Ziidi MMF is part of our continued efforts to diversify M-PESA beyond payments and deepen financial wellness. “Ziidi ni Ziidi” introduces the mindset that a little goes a long way, and any kind of growth is valuable. This empowers people to define prosperity on their own terms, and make wealth creation achievable to all,” said Dr. Peter Ndegwa, CEO Safaricom PLC.

    How to start investing 

    Customers can use the M-PESA App or USSD to opt into Ziidi MMF by simply dialling the short code *334*5#. Once they have done so, they can begin investing right away.

    While there is no maximum investment limit in Ziidi MMF, there is a daily M-PESA transaction limit of KES 500,000 and a per-transaction limit of KES 250,000. Ziidi MMF gives customers visibility of the daily interest rate earned, making investing and growing money easy, transparent, and worry-free.

    Understanding the value of flexibility, Ziidi MMF allows users to manage their money as they see fit by providing free deposits to their Ziidi MMF account and withdrawals into their M-PESA wallets.

    With as little as KES 100, clients can opt in and begin their investment experience on Ziidi MMF.

    “As we launch Ziidi MMF, we are making an invitation to every Kenyan, irrespective of their financial standing, to take the first step towards wealth creation. Together, let’s embrace this responsibility and let Ziidi MMF be the catalyst for a future where every Kenyan has the means to wealth creation in their own way,” concluded Dr Ndegwa.

    Read also: Fresh crisis erupts between Genghis Capital and Safaricom over M-Pesa-backed unit trusts

    Fund Managers express enthusiasm over partnership with Safaricom 

    “We are excited to partner with Safaricom as a fund manager for Ziidi Money Market Fund. Our commitment to investors is that we will strive to offer them exceptional profits to help them achieve their financial goals. Based on our track record of providing above-market-average returns, I am confident in our ability to deliver this promise,” said James Wangunyu, SIB’s Founder & Managing Director.

    “By combining our institutional synergies with Safaricom, we hope to provide an attractive investment portfolio, which will, in turn, enhance financial inclusion among low- and mid-income earners in line with the government’s bottom-up economic transformation agenda,” he added.

    “Ziidi MMF represents not just an opportunity for financial growth, but also a reflection of Safaricom’s commitment to innovation, responsible investing, and creating long-term value to its investors. This solution ensures that every Kenyan can achieve their financial goals while enjoying the flexibility of managing their investments directly through their mobile devices,” said Sean Gichuru, ALA’s Chief Investment Officer.

    “At ALA Capital, we believe that success is not just measured by financial returns, but by the positive impact we create in our community and the world around us. We are humbled and honoured to be a part of this historical journey that aims to provide a unique investment experience,” Mr Gichuru added.

    Additionally, customers can choose to lock their money to prevent unforeseen withdrawals.

    Apart from the Ziidi Money Market Fund, Safaricom intends to develop and create additional solutions to meet the diverse demands of its clients in order to guarantee their financial stability and security.

  • Kenya ranked 21st globally in crypto usage as IMF pushes for regulatory framework

    Kenya ranked 21st globally in crypto usage as IMF pushes for regulatory framework

    Kenya ranks 21st out of 155 countries in global cryptocurrency usage, with over 730,000 users, most of whom are under 40. This growing adoption has caught the attention of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which is urging the country to establish a transparent regulatory framework for digital assets.

    According to an IMF technical assistance report released on January 8, 2025, the lack of clear regulations poses potential risks to financial stability, consumer protection, and market integrity.

    Read also: From Kenya to East Africa: Cashlet’s plan to impact 200,000 users by 2025

    The IMF highlighted that, despite the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) prohibiting banks from engaging with cryptocurrency entities, cryptocurrencies, particularly stablecoins like USDT, have gained popularity in Kenya. Businesses are increasingly using these digital assets for international payments, especially during periods of dollar scarcity and the depreciation of the Kenyan shilling.

    A survey conducted by a technical working group, including representatives from the CBK and the Capital Markets Authority (CMA), revealed a wider use of cryptocurrency than previously estimated. The survey also emphasised the need for enhanced financial literacy to protect consumers as cryptocurrency adoption expands.

    Crypto’s economic influence in Kenya

    Kenya’s cryptocurrency sector has become increasingly significant. In 2022, the Kenya Revenue Authority collected Sh10 billion in taxes from cryptocurrency transactions. The sector transacted an estimated Sh42.4 trillion between 2021 and 2022, contributing to approximately 20 percent of the country’s GDP.

    Digital assets are widely used by both corporate and individual users as a hedge against shilling depreciation and foreign settlements, even though individuals usually invest less than Sh100,000.

    Read also: Kenya proposes new licensing rules for Internet cafés, including CCTV and activity logs

    Stablecoins: A growing trend in Kenya’s crypto market

    Stablecoins, in particular, have become a popular choice for transactions due to their stability. Unlike more volatile cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, stablecoins are linked to reserve assets such as the U.S. dollar or gold, making them a reliable medium of exchange in regions with unstable currencies.

    In response to the growing crypto market, Kenya has proposed a National Policy on Virtual Assets and Virtual Asset Service Providers. The policy, which is currently open for public comment until January 24, 2025, seeks to balance the need for innovation with concerns over financial stability and consumer safety. Kenya is expected to finalise and implement this regulatory framework by April 2025.

    The IMF has backed these regulatory efforts, which aim to promote innovation, ensure consumer protection, and mitigate risks in the crypto market. If successful, Kenya could serve as a model for other African nations grappling with how to regulate the rapidly expanding digital asset sector while maintaining financial stability.

  • Kenya Primary School Education Assessment results out: Key details for parents

    Kenya Primary School Education Assessment results out: Key details for parents

    The Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) on Monday announced that the 2024 Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) results are now available online. 

    This assessment is part of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and evaluates Grade 6 students’ skills and knowledge in various subjects. For many families, this is a turning point in their children’s education.

    Read also: WASSCE resit examination not applicable to Nigerian candidates

    Steps to access KPSEA results

    To check the KPSEA results, parents and schools can follow these simple steps:

    Visit the KNEC Website: Go to the official KNEC portal at [cba.knec.ac.ke](http://cba.knec.ac.ke).

    Select KPSEA: Find and click on the KPSEA section on the homepage.

    Enter Student Details: Input your child’s index number and name as registered.

    View Results: Click to view and download the performance report.

    KNEC has stated that only schools can download official result slips, while parents can view individual performance reports online. 

    “Schools that presented candidates for the assessment are advised to log into the portal and access the learner-specific reports,” KNEC mentioned in their announcement.

    Read also: WAEC extends registration deadline for 2025 WASSCE private candidates

    Importance of Kenya Primary School Education Assessment results

    The KPSEA results matter to 1.3 million students who sat the examinations from October 28 to 30, 2024.

    These results will help determine which students move on to Grade 7, where they will continue their education under the CBC framework. 

    The assessment focuses on practical skills rather than just memorising facts, which shows a change in how education is approached in Kenya.

    “Congratulations to all the 2024 KPSEA candidates,” KNEC added, highlighting how these results will shape students’ futures.

    The KPSEA tests students in Mathematics, English, Kiswahili, Integrated Science, Creative Arts, and Social Studies. This method aims to encourage a deeper understanding of knowledge among learners.

    As parents look forward to seeing their children’s results, they can easily navigate the KNEC portal for this vital information. The transition from primary school to junior secondary is an exciting time for students and families, marking a new chapter in their educational journey.

    If you can’t access the results, KNEC recommends contacting schools. This keeps parents updated on their child’s academic development and achievements.

  • Mysterious UFO crash in Moyale: Locals left in bewilderment

    Mysterious UFO crash in Moyale: Locals left in bewilderment

    Something strange happened in Moyale, Kenya, on Thursday when an unidentified flying object (UFO) crashed nearby. A glowing object was seen racing across the sky before it quickly fell and crashed, leaving people confused.

    Many locals were confused with the question, “ni nini?” which means “What is this?”

    Read also: Kenya Space Agency denies demanding compensation from India over fallen rocket debris

    Eyewitness accounts

    Witnesses said they saw the UFO as it moved through the sky and made a significant effect when it landed. They said the object seemed to glow before it crashed, and there was a burnt smell.

    The sighting began over Wajir and Turkana counties before falling near Moyale. Despite the dramatic nature of the event, the Kenya Space Agency (KSA) or other authorities have not issued an official statement about what occurred.

    Residents engage in unbridled speculation. Some speculate that it may be space debris, whereas others contend it could be an unidentified spacecraft. The absence of officials’ information has exacerbated the community’s curiosity and apprehension.

    Previous incidents

    This incident follows another unusual event that happened on December 29, 2024. A metal separation ring from a launch vehicle crashed in Makueni County, damaging property and raising the alarm about falling debris from space. 

    A resident in Mukuku village claims that a 500kg metal ring damaged her home.

    Read also: Kenya Space Agency begins investigation as strange object lands in Mukuku

    The KSA confirmed that this was space debris and took it for investigation. Safety concerns are growing, with over 170 million space debris orbiting Earth.

    As news of the Moyale crash spreads, social media is filled with videos and discussions about its possible causes. The founder of KSA has emphasised public awareness regarding space debris and its risks.

    However, many Kenyans are left wondering what happened without an official response to this latest incident.

    The mystery surrounding UFOs continues to fascinate people in Moyale and across Kenya. As they await answers from authorities, communities reflect on the implications of human activities in space and how they affect life on Earth.

  • From Kenya to East Africa: Cashlet’s plan to impact 200,000 users by 2025

    From Kenya to East Africa: Cashlet’s plan to impact 200,000 users by 2025

    Cashlet, a fintech platform founded by Aggrey Obimbo, announced its plans for expansion into East Africa on Monday. 

    The company aims to enter markets in Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda following its successful regulatory approval from Kenya’s Capital Markets Authority (CMA) in January 2024.

    Read also: Kenya’s ICT Authority seeks public engagement on key regulatory frameworks to advance the ICT industry

    Growth and impact in Kenya

    Since its launch, Cashlet has experienced remarkable growth, boasting over 13,000 active users and facilitating more than $1.2 million in gross inflows. 

    The platform focuses on financial inclusion and allows users to start saving with as little as $1. “This past year has been a turning point for financial empowerment in Kenya,” Obimbo stated. 

    The platform’s features include goal-based savings and automated deposits, which have significantly improved users’ lives. 

    One user shared, “Cashlet has made it possible for me to save for my children’s education and invest for the first time.”

    Read also: Kenya Space Agency begins investigation as strange object lands in Mukuku

    Plans for East African markets

    Cashlet is not just focused on growth; it is also committed to enhancing financial literacy among its users. The company has provided educational resources that have been viewed over 600,000 times. 

    As it expands into neighbouring countries, Cashlet aims to onboard 200,000 users and grow its assets under management to $15 million by the end of 2025. This ambitious plan reflects Cashlet’s dedication to fostering financial empowerment across East Africa.

  • Kenya’s ICT Authority seeks public engagement on key regulatory frameworks to advance the ICT industry

    Kenya’s ICT Authority seeks public engagement on key regulatory frameworks to advance the ICT industry

    The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) is seeking public input on three major regulatory approaches aimed at promoting the expansion of the ICT industry.

    In a public notice dated December 23, 2024, the three regulatory initiatives include the Unified Licensing Framework (ULF), Terrestrial Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB-T2) and the Digital Sound Broadcasting (DSB) framework.

    Read also: Kenya Space Agency begins investigation as strange object lands in Mukuku

    The Unified Licensing Framework

    The first is the telecommunications market structure review, which aims to reconsider the technology-neutral Unified Licensing Framework (ULF), which has been in place for more than ten years.

    Per the present ICT sector strategy, the review will propose new licensing areas, clarify the scope of the various licenses, and address and remove any operational and market entrance hurdles that have been found over time.

    It is anticipated that the opinions of the stakeholders would enhance the review procedure under the Constitution’s mandate that the public be included in the formulation of public policy. Comments from stakeholders are due by January 23, 2025.

    The Terrestrial Digital Video Broadcasting

    Regarding the proposed revised minimum technical standards and requirements for the second-generation Terrestrial Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB-T2) receivers, the Authority is simultaneously soliciting feedback from interested parties.

    To prepare for the digital migration that was put into effect in 2015 in compliance with the international deadline for the switch-off of analogue television, Kenya adopted the DVB-T2 standard for terrestrial digital television broadcasting.

    To make digital receivers available locally for the reception of digital terrestrial television transmissions, the Authority released minimum technical criteria for DVB-T2 Digital Set Top Boxes (STB) and Integrated Digital Television (iDTV) over the same period.

    ‘‘The proposed update will ensure that only those digital receivers that comply with the current technical standards will be approved for use in Kenya,’’ says the Authority in the notice.

    Read also: Mastercard, Boost Technology partner to boost MSMEs growth in Ghana, Kenya, others

    The technical improvements that have since been implemented in the terrestrial digital television broadcasting sector are being included in the DVB-T2 technical specifications and criteria.

    It is expected that television viewers will be able to take advantage of new features that have been made available by technological developments on digital terrestrial platforms if the improved standards are put into practice. The comments must be submitted by January 15, 2025.

    The Digital Sound Broadcasting

    The Authority has also created the relevant license templates for the DSB infrastructure and services in preparation for the implementation of the DSB licensing framework in the 2025–2026 fiscal year, after creating a Digital Sound Broadcasting (DSB) framework to direct the launch of digital radio broadcasting services in Kenya.

    The deadline for submitting input is January 17, 2025, and the Authority is looking for stakeholder advice on ten proposed licensing categories within the DSB framework.

  • Kenyan internet speeds surge by 18.5% as Starlink and Safaricom battle for dominance

    Kenyan internet speeds surge by 18.5% as Starlink and Safaricom battle for dominance

    From 9.78 bps in January to 11.59 Mbps in October 2024, Kenyan fixed Internet speeds grew by 18.5 percent as a result of Elon Musk’s Starlink launch in July 2023, which enhanced competition among regional providers.

    In response, market leader Safaricom increased bandwidth and released 1,000 Mbps speeds for the first time. This was according to Kenya’s Business Daily reports published on Friday.

    Read also: Starlink launches services in Cape Verde, its 18th African market

    Significant market changes due to heightened competition 

    Significant market changes have been brought about by the increasing competition: by June, the number of subscribers with 100–1000 Mbps connections had grown by 53 percent to 15,226; by the same month, the total number of fixed Internet users had climbed by 13 percent to 1.5 million.

    By June, Starlink had 8,324 customers, up from 405 in 2023, and a 0.5 percent market share.

    With Internet usage rising from 32.7 percent to 40.8 percent of the population and daily online time increasing from 4 hours 17 minutes to 4 hours 49 minutes, the competitive environment has boosted consumer welfare without causing price hikes.

    Enthusiasm mixed with scepticism 

    The general attitude among Kenyan consumers is a mixture of enthusiasm and scepticism aimed mostly at the market’s leading operator, building on the spike in internet speeds in Kenya sparked by Starlink’s introduction.

    Read also: Namibia orders Musk’s Starlink to shut down

    The dominant story, which is supported by extensive online debates and social media activity, raises concerns about the rationale and timing of these upgrades: Why was this capability withheld if it had always existed?

    A key component of Kenya’s Vision 2030, which aims to make the country a middle-income one, has historically been the expansion of internet infrastructure, fuelled by projects like the SEACOM and TEAMS undersea cables in 2009.

    A more resilient and technologically advanced economy that is ready for substantial involvement in the global digital marketplace and has the potential to spur innovation and socioeconomic inclusion in the region could be the driving force behind this current wave, which is being driven by private-sector competition like Starlink.