The Kenya International Freight and Warehousing Association (KIFWA) and a group of insurance partners on Monday announced a national rollout of a Digital Marine Cargo Insurance (DMCI) platform ahead of the start of mandatory marine cargo insurance requirements on July 1, 2026.

In a statement dated June 30, 2026, KIFWA said the platform will enable digital issuance of marine cargo insurance certificates and connect to payment and verification channels used in Kenya’s import clearance process. The rollout comes as importers, clearing agents and insurers prepare for an enforcement shift that is expected to increase demand for marine cargo insurance documentation at ports and border points.

According to KIFWA, the participating insurance firms are APA General Insurance Company, Britam General Insurance, CIC General Insurance, Old Mutual General Insurance and Pacis Insurance. The statement also lists Dynamique and eCitizen as partners involved in the rollout, describing the initiative as powered by technology providers.

KIFWA said the DMCI platform is “linked to payment gateways provided by E-citizen, KRA ICMS, M-Pesa, participating banking institutions, and relevant regulatory bodies.” The association added that the system is intended to support “real-time premium payment and certificate verification” and “faster cargo clearance through automated digital processing.”

The statement lists key functions including “instant issuance of Digital Marine Cargo Insurance Certificates,” integrations for payment verification “through eCitizen, M-Pesa, banking institutions, Pesaflow, among others,” and “nationwide customer support and training for clearing and forwarding agents.”

The rollout matters for Kenya’s logistics and trade ecosystem because marine cargo insurance documentation is frequently required as part of import clearance workflows, particularly for consignments entering through the Port of Mombasa and key inland border points serving the Northern Corridor. By linking insurance certificate issuance to digital payment rails and Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) systems, the platform could reduce time spent on manual verification and lower the risk of clearance delays tied to missing or unverifiable documents.

KIFWA said the platform has been accompanied by stakeholder training ahead of the compliance date. “In preparation for implementation, KIFWA and its partners have successfully conducted sensitization and training programmes for members and industry stakeholders in Nairobi, Mombasa, Malaba, Busia, Namanga and Isebania,” the association said.

Training will continue for the next 12 months, according to the statement, covering access to the platform, end-to-end certificate issuance, premium payment, integration with customs clearance procedures, and claims reporting and customer support.

In an implementation update, KIFWA said it will maintain support “through continuous training, technical assistance and close collaboration with its insurance partners to ensure a smooth transition to the new digital marine cargo insurance framework.”

For insurers, the move signals deeper integration with government and payments infrastructure, which could reshape distribution and verification of marine cover for importers and agents. For clearing and forwarding firms, the shift may increase the operational importance of digital readiness at a time when clearance processes are increasingly system-driven across KRA and eCitizen channels.

Next steps will focus on onboarding users and stabilising operations as the mandatory marine cargo insurance requirements take effect from July 1, 2026. KIFWA said members are expected to use the training programme and adopt the platform to avoid disruptions in cargo clearance once compliance enforcement begins.

National Bank of Kenya (NBK) and Centum Real Estate have signed a strategic partnership to offer financing solutions for home purchases, land acquisition and construction, in a move the firms say is intended to broaden access to property ownership for Kenyans. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Kilifi County, according to a joint media release.

The partnership introduces what the companies described as tailored financing options, including mortgages and construction loans, with repayment structured around individual customer circumstances. NBK and Centum Real Estate said the model is designed to shift customers’ focus from a lump-sum purchase price to what they can afford on a monthly basis, as lenders and developers look for new ways to address affordability constraints in Kenya’s housing market.

Kenya continues to face a housing deficit, while tighter household budgets and elevated borrowing costs have weighed on mortgage uptake in recent years. Against this backdrop, banks have been pursuing partnerships with developers to originate mortgages and project-linked financing, while developers seek to expand the buyer pool by aligning payment schedules to construction timelines and expected rental yields.

George Odhiambo, Managing Director at National Bank of Kenya, said the MoU formalises a collaboration aimed at enabling home ownership and real estate investment. “The partnership we are formalizing today represents a shared commitment to enabling home ownership, supporting investment in real estate, and providing customers with tailored financial solutions that help them achieve their aspirations,” Odhiambo said. He added that the partners plan to combine NBK’s “financial expertise and extensive customer network” with Centum’s real estate delivery capabilities.

Martin Kariuki, General Manager, Vipingo Development, framed the arrangement as a way to create more predictable financing for buyers. “A good home should be more than something people admire from a distance. It should be something they can understand, plan for, and move toward with confidence,” Kariuki said. “By connecting quality homes with a more predictable financing path, we want to help more customers see ownership as something they can realistically work toward.”

The statement also included remarks from Ralph Opara, Access Bank Regional Managing Director, East Africa and Country Managing Director, Kenya. “This MOU is not simply about financing property transactions. It reflects our commitment to leveraging Access Bank Group’s international reach, financial strength, and deep market expertise to unlock opportunities for our customers,” Opara said, adding that the partnership aims to support sustainable development and long-term economic growth.

NBK and Centum Real Estate cited an example of a studio apartment priced at KES 2.7 million, saying it can be financed through monthly repayments, which the firms said lowers the barrier to entry for first-time buyers and investors.

A key feature of the offering, according to the release, is an investor-focused structure in which buyers begin servicing their mortgage after the unit has been completed and handed over. The companies said this is intended to allow owners to generate rental income and apply proceeds toward repayments.

For Kenya’s property and banking sectors, such product structures could intensify competition for project-tied mortgages and broaden the menu of lending models beyond traditional buy-to-let and owner-occupier mortgages. However, the commercial viability will depend on delivery timelines, take-up rates, and lenders’ risk management for developments that rely on expected rental cash flows.

The companies did not disclose the targeted number of units, expected mortgage volumes, or the pricing details of the financing products. They said the partnership is intended to expand access to property investment and ownership and support the country’s economic development agenda, with implementation expected to follow the MoU signing.

KCB Group’s Director of Corporate Banking Peter Ng’eno said the lender has issued letters of credit worth more than KSh 1.074 trillion to facilitate petroleum imports under Kenya’s Government-to-Government (G-to-G) fuel importation programme since 2022, positioning bank-backed trade finance as a key pillar in the country’s fuel supply chain.

Ng’eno made the remarks on Monday, June 29, 2026, during the Petroleum Institute of East Africa (PIEA) Q2 State of the Oil Industry Briefing held at the Sarova Stanley Hotel in Nairobi, an event attended by Ministry of Energy and Petroleum Cabinet Secretary Hon. James Wandayi and PIEA chairperson Peter Murungi, according to the prepared remarks.

The G-to-G framework was introduced in 2023 to manage fuel supply and reduce immediate pressure on foreign exchange demand by altering how import financing and settlement timelines are structured. Kenya remains heavily reliant on imported refined petroleum products, making the sector sensitive to global price swings, shipping disruptions and dollar liquidity conditions.

In his statement, Ng’eno linked fuel supply resilience to access to financing, saying disruptions in global markets quickly translate into higher freight costs, insurance premiums, foreign exchange demand and working capital requirements for importers and marketers.

“I am proud to note that to date, KCB has issued Letters of Credit worth over KShs. 1.074 trillion under the programme, facilitating the importation of petroleum products that continue to power industries, businesses and households across the country,” Ng’eno said.

He said Kenya’s 2022 energy financing challenge, which he attributed to rising pressure on fuel imports and intensifying foreign exchange demand, prompted the government to seek a financial partner to operationalise a new importation framework. “KCB stepped forward as the primary financial partner under the Government-to-Government (G-to-G) fuel importation programme,” Ng’eno said, adding that the bank used its capital base and international banking relationships to support the programme’s rollout.

Beyond petroleum trade finance, Ng’eno said the bank finances different parts of the oil and gas value chain, including “upstream exploration and production,” “midstream infrastructure and logistics,” and downstream marketers and distributors. He framed the sector as central to economic activity as East Africa’s population grows and urbanisation and industrial output increase.

The remarks also pointed to recent geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, as a reminder of exposure to external supply shocks. “The recent tensions in the Middle East exposed the vulnerabilities that continue to exist within global energy markets,” Ng’eno said, noting that disruptions around key shipping routes have direct cost implications for import-dependent countries.

For Kenya’s business landscape, the disclosure underscores the scale of bank intermediation that has supported the import system at a time of constrained dollar liquidity and elevated balance-of-payments pressures. Letters of credit are typically issued in hard currency and rely on correspondent banking lines, linking domestic energy supply continuity to the health of local banking liquidity and international credit relationships.

Ng’eno also said energy security and sustainability should be pursued in parallel, calling for an energy mix that supports industrialisation while “progressively embracing cleaner and more efficient energy solutions.” He said the transition creates investment opportunities in renewable energy infrastructure and cleaner technologies, and that KCB is developing financing structures to support “tomorrow’s energy solutions.”

Looking ahead, Ng’eno said the region’s energy sector outcomes will depend on coordinated action by government, industry and financiers. “The future of East Africa’s energy sector will not be shaped by any one institution acting alone,” he said, calling for enabling policies, investment in innovation and capital mobilisation to strengthen energy security and resilience.

Pwani Oil Products Ltd and Carrefour have awarded prizes worth “millions of shillings” to Kenyan shoppers after a month-long consumer promotion run across Carrefour stores nationwide, the company said in a statement dated 29 June 2026.

The prizes were handed over during a ceremony held in Nairobi on 26 June 2026. According to the statement, winners received brand-new vehicles, school fees vouchers, home appliances and fully paid holiday trips after participating in the promotion.

The campaign also offered discounts of up to 50% on selected Pwani Oil household products at Carrefour outlets during the four-week period, the statement said. The company did not disclose the total value of prizes or the number of winners.

The promotion was positioned around household budget pressures, with the statement citing school fees and transport as key cost drivers, particularly for families in urban centres where the cost of living has risen.

“At a time when the cost of living continues to press on Kenyan households, we wanted this campaign to deliver value on two levels, immediately at the till, and through prizes that make a lasting difference,” said Rajul Malde, Commercial Director at Pwani Oil Products Ltd. “The discounts reached every shopper who walked through those doors. The prizes go to families whose lives will look materially different because of a regular trip to the supermarket. That is the kind of impact we set out to create.”

Pwani Oil said customers who purchased participating products during the campaign automatically qualified for the prize draw. The statement said the promotion covered multiple categories, including cooking oil, laundry care, dishwashing, personal care and petroleum jelly.

The initiative highlights the growing importance of modern trade partnerships for fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) manufacturers seeking to protect volumes in a price-sensitive market. Retail-driven promotions have become a common tool for brands to stimulate demand while offering short-term relief to shoppers facing higher living costs.

For Kenyan retailers, such campaigns can support store traffic and basket size by tying discounts to prize draws and multi-category purchases. For suppliers, the approach can strengthen shelf presence and product rotation, though it may also increase pressure to fund promotions in a competitive FMCG landscape.

Pwani Oil said the campaign was designed as a single promotional platform for multiple brands in its portfolio, as part of its strategy to use modern trade partnerships to “deliver direct consumer value.” The company did not indicate whether it plans to roll out similar promotions in future or expand the format to other retail chains.

CFAO Mobility Kenya has unveiled three new Suzuki models in Kenya—the Super Carry, Eeco and Across—positioning them for individuals and small businesses seeking lower running costs and practical mobility options.

In a press statement dated June 29, 2026, the firm said the launch is aimed at buyers who are increasingly driven by value considerations as vehicle ownership costs rise and businesses focus on efficiency, particularly in urban logistics and passenger transport.

The new line-up includes the Suzuki Super Carry, a light-duty pickup targeted at small businesses and last-mile logistics; the Suzuki Eeco, a multi-purpose van designed for both family and commercial use; and the Suzuki Across, an SUV offered with all-wheel-drive capability, according to the statement.

“Kenya’s automotive market is increasingly value-driven, with buyers being cost-conscious and seeking vehicles that offer better value, are reliable, practical, and cost-efficient over time,” said Arvinder Reel, Managing Director at CFAO Mobility Kenya, during the unveiling ceremony. “The Suzuki models are designed to make car ownership more attainable with the models reflecting the brand’s strong commitment to cost-conscious consumers and first-time buyers.”

Reel added that the company is prioritising “safety, reliability, and accessibility” as it targets a broader segment of motorists and commercial operators.

For commercial users, the Super Carry is designed to support daily urban operations and maneuver in congested areas. CFAO Mobility Kenya said the model comes with a 30-litre fuel tank, a payload capacity of up to 730kg and a high-strength steel chassis, with a two-seat, single-cab layout aimed at utility-focused use.

The Eeco, which the company described as a multi-purpose van for passenger and business needs, is designed to carry up to seven passengers and has a payload capacity of 615kg. CFAO Mobility Kenya said the vehicle has a 32-litre fuel tank and is intended for passenger transport and last-mile deliveries, with an emphasis on durability and long-term use.

The Suzuki Across targets motorists seeking a higher-riding vehicle with off-road capability. According to the statement, the model has a five-seat cabin, a 45-litre fuel tank and a 1.5-litre engine. Safety features listed include six airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), dual sensor brake support and hill assist.

The company did not disclose pricing for the new models.

The launch comes as Kenya’s automotive market continues to evolve around affordability, financing availability and total cost of ownership, with demand often concentrated in used imports and value-oriented new vehicles. For distributors, product positioning around fuel consumption and maintenance costs has become a central lever for competing in both personal mobility and commercial transport segments.

CFAO Mobility Kenya said the new Suzuki models will be supported by “over 43 branches, dealerships, and authorised service centres,” an aftersales footprint it says is intended to improve access to maintenance and repairs for customers countrywide.

Looking ahead, uptake of the Super Carry and Eeco is likely to be closely watched in the small business and fleet segments, where vehicle utilisation rates and maintenance downtime can materially affect operating margins. The company’s next milestones are expected to include dealer rollout, fleet engagement and further product updates as it broadens its Suzuki portfolio in Kenya.

Samson Lemayan and Lydia Simiyu won the men’s and women’s 42km races at the 26th Lewa Safari Marathon held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Isiolo County, according to a statement issued by the organisers and sponsors.

Lemayan, a ranger at Samburu National Reserve, defended his men’s title after finishing in 2:27:04. He placed ahead of Victor Miano (2:28:08) and Nehemiah Kimaru (2:32:38). In the women’s race, 32-year-old Kenya Wildlife Service officer Simiyu, from Kitale in Trans Nzoia County, won in 2:50:39, followed by Lydia Nyansikera (2:56:41) and Gladys Otero (3:07:40).

Both the 42km and 21km category winners received KES 150,000 each, while first runners-up earned KES 80,000 and second runners-up KES 60,000, the statement said.

The Lewa Safari Marathon, now in its 26th year, is among Kenya’s high-profile endurance events that combines sports with conservation-linked fundraising at a time when corporate-backed events continue to play a growing role in financing community and environmental programmes in Northern Kenya.

“This is my third year participating in this race and my second time winning it. I have been preparing for this race since last year, and I am happy to have successfully defended my title. This Marathon is more challenging than many other races because of its tough terrain, so winning here means a lot to me as I continue preparing for upcoming races,” Lemayan said.

Simiyu said the win marked her first appearance at the event. “This is my first time participating in the Lewa Safari Marathon, and winning it is a major milestone in my athletics career. It is one of the races I have always wanted to compete in because of its impact on conservation and the surrounding communities, as well as its reputation as one of the toughest marathon courses. I would like to thank the organisers and sponsors, including Safaricom, for making this event such a success,” she said.

In the 21km half marathon, Michael Kamau won the men’s race in 1:06:36, while Mercy Nelima took the women’s title in 1:19:02. Justine Lelintan (1:07:59) and Doreen Kendi (1:23:09) were second, while Simon Saidimu (1:08:30) and Caroline Waithira (1:26:12) finished third in their respective categories. The Executive 10km winners were Wilson Moyer (men) and Jessica Baillie (women), organisers said.

Michael Joseph, an M-PESA Foundation Trustee, linked the event to longer-term corporate support. “Twenty-six years of supporting this marathon reflect our long-standing commitment to creating meaningful and lasting impact in communities, extending far beyond wildlife conservation. I would like to thank our fellow sponsors, partners, participants and everyone who contributed to the success of this year's event. We remain committed to supporting this noble cause and ensuring it continues to deliver even greater impact in the years ahead,” Joseph said.

Organisers said the 2026 edition attracted more than 1,400 participants from Kenya and abroad, a turnout that underscores the continued appeal of destination events to domestic and international runners, with potential spillovers for hospitality, transport and local supply chains in host regions.

Rob Macaire, CEO of Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, said the marathon’s focus goes beyond the race itself. “Today, we celebrate not only the achievements of those who crossed the finish line, but also the lasting impact this event continues to make through conservation, education, healthcare and sustainable livelihoods. Experiencing my first Lewa Safari Marathon as CEO has been both inspiring and humbling,” Macaire said.

The event was sponsored by Safaricom and Huawei, alongside partners including Amref Health Africa, Kenya Red Cross, Atlas Towers, Safari Link, ICEA Lions, and Tropical Heat, according to the statement. Organisers did not disclose the total amount raised, but said the marathon supports conservation and neighbouring communities, with future editions expected to continue relying on corporate sponsorship and participant turnout as key drivers.

Safaricom’s Chapa Dimba Season Five begins on Saturday, June 27, with grassroots matches across the Western region as registrations for the youth football tournament rose to 3,178 teams nationwide, according to a company press release dated June 26, 2026.

The opening round in Western Kenya has attracted 521 teams drawn from Kakamega, Busia, Vihiga and Bungoma counties. Safaricom said the regional entry includes 340 boys’ teams and 181 girls’ teams, which it described as an increase from the previous season.

Nationally, Safaricom reported that 2,367 boys’ teams and 811 girls’ teams registered for the tournament, taking the total to 3,178 teams and exceeding a target of 3,000 teams. The company did not disclose the prior season’s national registration figures in the statement.

The tournament forms part of Safaricom’s broader youth and community programming and sits at the intersection of sport, education and corporate social investment in Kenya. For businesses, such initiatives remain a key channel for brand engagement in counties while also supporting talent development and local ecosystems around sports—ranging from transport and hospitality to small traders around match venues.

Speaking ahead of the kick-off, Safaricom Chief Executive Officer Peter Ndegwa linked the high registration numbers to the tournament’s role in youth football development.

“Every season, we are seeing more teams, more talent, and more success stories emerge from communities across Kenya. While not every team was able to secure a place in this year's competition, we encourage those who missed out to continue preparing and look forward to the next season. Chapa Dimba is a long-term platform, and there will always be another opportunity to showcase talent and pursue football dreams,” Ndegwa said.

Safaricom said last season’s Western Regional champions—Ebwali Boys from Vihiga County and Brenda Girls from Bungoma County—are among teams expected to return this year.

Francis Muhambe, head coach of Vihiga Cranes, said the tournament has previously created progression opportunities for players into the All-Star programme.

“We are excited to have Safaricom Chapa Dimba back. Last season, I led Ebwali FC to become regional champions, and I was proud to see players like Austine Odongo, Derrick Oketch and Edwin Onyango progress to the All-Star team that travelled to Spain. This year, I return with a new team, confident they will perform well and attract interest from national league clubs,” Muhambe said.

Under the competition structure outlined by Safaricom, teams will advance from ward-level matches through sub-county, county, regional and national stages. Safaricom said national champions in both boys’ and girls’ categories will each receive KES 1 million, alongside additional prizes at county and regional levels and individual awards for Most Valuable Player, Top Scorer and Best Goalkeeper.

Beyond match results, Safaricom said 150 players will be selected from county to national level to receive fully funded tertiary education scholarships under its Citizens of the Future programme. The company said the scholarships will cover tuition, accommodation and a monthly stipend at public tertiary institutions in Kenya.

Safaricom added that outstanding players will form an All-Stars team that will represent Kenya at the Gothia Cup in Sweden, which it described as the world’s largest youth football tournament, offering exposure to international competition and scouting networks.

Looking ahead, attention will shift to participation levels in other regions as the tournament rolls out nationally, and to the pipeline from regional stages to the national finals. Safaricom said Chapa Dimba, launched in 2017, has produced players who progress into local leagues, national teams and international clubs, and the company is positioning Season Five to continue those pathways.

Safaricom increased its share of Kenya’s fixed internet market to 35.5% and grew its subscriber base to 941,501 customers in the three months to March 2026, according to sector statistics released by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).

The CA’s third-quarter 2025/26 report shows Safaricom added more than 83,000 new fixed broadband customers between December 2025 and March 2026, lifting its market share from 34.9% in the preceding quarter.

The latest figures underline the importance of fixed broadband in Kenya’s telecoms sector as operators compete on network coverage, pricing and bundled services amid rising demand for home and small-business connectivity.

According to the CA, other key fixed internet providers include Jamii Telecommunications Limited (Faiba) with a 20.1% market share, Wananchi Group (Zuku) at 11.1% and Poa Internet Kenya Limited at 10.7%.

The regulator said affordability continues to shape consumption patterns in the market. “Most fixed internet subscriptions in Kenya are on speeds between the 10 and 30 Mbps bands, mainly due to their affordability and reliability for most subscribers,” the Communications Authority noted in its report.

Safaricom has aligned its entry-level fibre offering around a 15 Mbps package, as operators adjust product structures to capture price-sensitive households and increase broadband penetration, according to the statement accompanying the data.

Despite the subscriber gains, the CA’s report points to continued headroom for growth. The statement notes that while Kenya has more than eight million households connected to electricity, only 2.7 million currently have fixed internet subscriptions.

Safaricom reported that in its financial year ending March 2026 it recorded 32% growth in fixed broadband subscribers and a 12% increase in revenue from the segment, highlighting the contribution of home and enterprise internet services to its overall business performance.

The company said it has adjusted its fibre deployment model to expand connectivity beyond traditional higher-income neighbourhoods, citing lower installation costs and technology-led rollout approaches. It also said existing customers have received doubled internet speeds at no additional cost, while solutions such as WiFi Bamba are being used to expand affordable home fibre connectivity in lower-income communities, including the Affordable Housing Project in Mukuru, Nairobi.

Safaricom further said it is piloting tokenisation models that would allow customers to purchase short-term, high-speed internet access within fibre-enabled zones, and noted a partnership with Huawei on Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) solutions aimed at improving in-home and business connectivity experiences.

Beyond last-mile connectivity, the CA attributed improvements in the broader sector to investments in international capacity. According to the regulator, Kenya’s international internet bandwidth increased by 16.4% to 28,130.3 Gbps during the period under review.

“This growth was driven by increasing demand for higher capacity and faster internet speeds. Notably, SEACOM expanded its capacity by 53.3 per cent to 10,500.0 Gbps. Consequently, total utilized bandwidth capacity grew by 3.0 per cent to 17,758.824 Gbps,” the report noted.

Industry watchers will be tracking whether faster entry-level packages, new purchasing models and expanding international capacity translate into higher fixed broadband take-up, especially outside traditional fibre corridors and among lower-income households. The next CA sector statistics release is expected to provide further clarity on whether the market’s growth momentum continues into subsequent quarters.

Safaricom Plc has grown its share of Kenya’s fixed internet market to 35.5% and increased its subscriber base to 941,501 customers in the three months to March 2026, according to new sector statistics published by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).

The regulator’s third-quarter 2025/26 report shows Safaricom added more than 83,000 fixed broadband customers between December 2025 and March 2026, lifting its market share from 34.9% in the previous quarter.

The gains come as Kenya’s fixed broadband market continues to evolve, with operators competing on speed upgrades, pricing and network expansion aimed at reaching underserved segments.

CA data shows Jamii Telecommunications Limited (Faiba) held 20.1% of the fixed internet market, followed by Wananchi Group (Zuku) at 11.1% and Poa Internet Kenya Limited at 10.7%.

The regulator attributed much of the demand to mid-tier speed packages. “Most fixed internet subscriptions in Kenya are on speeds between the 10 and 30 Mbps bands, mainly due to their affordability and reliability for most subscribers,” the Communications Authority noted in its report.

Within that bracket, Safaricom has set 15 Mbps as the entry-level speed on its most affordable fibre package, according to the statement accompanying the CA data.

The CA figures also point to room for further growth in household penetration. According to the statement, Kenya has more than eight million households connected to electricity, but only 2.7 million have fixed internet subscriptions.

Safaricom said its fixed broadband segment recorded 32% growth in subscribers in the financial year ended March 2026, alongside a 12% increase in revenue from the segment. The company did not disclose absolute revenue figures in the statement.

In response to shifting demand, Safaricom said it has changed its fibre deployment model to lower installation costs and expand connectivity beyond higher-income neighbourhoods. The company also said existing customers benefited from doubled internet speeds at no additional cost, while new offers such as WiFi Bamba are being used to support lower-cost home fibre connectivity in lower-income areas, including the Affordable Housing Project in Mukuru, Nairobi.

Safaricom further said it is piloting tokenisation models that would allow customers to buy short-term, high-speed access within fibre-enabled zones. It also cited a partnership with Huawei on Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) solutions aimed at improving in-home and business connectivity experiences.

Beyond last-mile competition, CA data shows international capacity continues to expand, supporting higher usage and faster speeds. According to the Communications Authority, Kenya’s international internet bandwidth increased by 16.4% to 28,130.3 Gbps. “This growth was driven by increasing demand for higher capacity and faster internet speeds. Notably, SEACOM expanded its capacity by 53.3% to 10,500.0 Gbps. Consequently, total utilized bandwidth capacity grew by 3.0% to 17,758.824 Gbps,” the report noted.

For the Kenyan market, continued growth in fixed broadband subscriptions is likely to intensify competition among fibre and fixed wireless providers, particularly in mid-speed packages where affordability is shaping consumer choices, while higher international capacity could help operators sustain service quality as usage rises.

Looking ahead, sector watchers will track whether operators convert the gap between electrified households and fixed internet subscriptions into new connections, and whether new models—such as short-term access products—translate into meaningful growth in adoption across lower-income and peri-urban areas.

CFAO Mobility Kenya has unveiled three new Suzuki models—Super Carry, Eeco and Across—in Kenya as it targets buyers it says are increasingly cost-conscious and focused on running costs, reliability and practicality.

The company said in a press statement dated June 25, 2026 that the models are intended to expand mobility options for individuals and small businesses, including last-mile logistics and passenger transport operators. The unveiling was attended by National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) Director General Nashon Kondiwa, according to the photo captions shared with the statement.

The launch comes as Kenya’s automotive market continues to tilt towards value pricing and operational efficiency, driven by high fuel costs and tighter household budgets. Light commercial vehicles and multi-purpose vans have also gained relevance as micro, small and medium-sized enterprises seek lower-cost ways to move goods and people in congested urban areas.

“Kenya’s automotive market is increasingly value-driven, with buyers being cost-conscious and seeking vehicles that offer better value, are reliable, practical, and cost-efficient over time,” said Arvinder Reel, Managing Director of CFAO Mobility Kenya, during the unveiling ceremony. He added that the new Suzuki line-up is aimed at making car ownership “more attainable” for first-time buyers.

Reel also linked the product strategy to broader mobility priorities. “By prioritizing safety, reliability, and accessibility, Suzuki by CFAO Mobility Kenya continues to promote inclusive mobility solutions that address the diverse transportation needs of Kenyans,” he said.

According to CFAO Mobility Kenya, the Suzuki Super Carry is a light-duty pickup designed for small businesses and last-mile logistics. The company said the vehicle has a 30-litre fuel tank and a payload capacity of up to 730 kilograms, and is designed to operate in tight urban environments. It is configured as a two-seat, single-cab pickup and uses a high-strength steel chassis, CFAO Mobility Kenya said.

The second model, the Suzuki Eeco, is a multi-purpose van aimed at both family and business use. CFAO Mobility Kenya said it can carry up to seven passengers and has a payload capacity of 615 kilograms. The company added that the Eeco has a 32-litre fuel tank and is intended for urban use, including passenger transport and deliveries.

The Suzuki Across, described by CFAO Mobility Kenya as an SUV, is positioned for drivers who need both city use and off-road capability. The company said the vehicle has all-wheel-drive, a five-seat cabin, a 45-litre fuel tank and a 1.5-litre engine. It also cited safety features including six airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), dual sensor brake support and hill assist.

CFAO Mobility Kenya said the new models will be supported through an aftersales and service footprint of “over 43 branches, dealerships, and authorised service centres” nationwide. The company did not disclose pricing for the three vehicles, or expected unit sales.

For Kenya’s market, the product mix signals continued competition in entry-level passenger vehicles and small commercial segments, where buyers weigh acquisition price against fuel consumption, maintenance costs and parts availability. The emphasis on aftersales reach also reflects the importance of service access for commercial operators, who typically prioritise uptime and repair turnaround times.

CFAO Mobility Kenya, a subsidiary of the CFAO Group, distributes and services multiple vehicle brands in Kenya, including Toyota, Volkswagen, Suzuki and Mercedes-Benz, among others, according to the statement. The company also operates value parts and quick service offerings and a certified pre-owned vehicle line.

CFAO Mobility Kenya did not provide timelines for dealer availability beyond stating the models are being introduced to the market, nor did it outline any financing partnerships. Market watchers will likely look to pricing and financing terms as the next key milestones that will determine adoption among small businesses and first-time buyers.