Business

Eastern Produce Kenya and Nandi County open GBV and mental health clinic at Nandi Hills County Hospital

Eastern Produce Kenya and Nandi County open GBV and mental health clinic at Nandi Hills County Hospital

3 min read

Eastern Produce Kenya (EPK), in partnership with the County Government of Nandi and private-sector partners Taylors of Harrogate and Infre, has opened an integrated Gender-Based Violence and Mental Health (GBVMH) Clinic at Nandi Hills County Hospital. The facility was launched on May 22, 2026, in Nandi Hills and is aimed at improving coordinated support for survivors of gender-based violence by combining medical, psychosocial and referral services in one location.

According to the announcement, the clinic is designed as an integrated centre to offer survivors what EPK described as dignified, coordinated and comprehensive care within a single safe environment. The model brings together healthcare providers, counsellors, social workers and links to law enforcement to improve reporting and case follow-up.

The clinic adds to existing GBV-related infrastructure supported by EPK in the area. EPK said it previously built and equipped a GBV Gender Desk at the Nandi Hills Police Station, and that the new hospital-based clinic is intended to strengthen reporting and referral pathways between the police and the healthcare system.

During the launch ceremony, Noel Lindsay-Smith, Operations Director at Eastern Produce Kenya, said the centre was designed to prioritise survivor privacy and holistic care. “Gender-based violence is not only a health issue; it is a human right and community issue. Survivors deserve spaces that protect their dignity, safeguard their privacy, and support their healing journey in a holistic way,” Lindsay-Smith said. He added, “This clinic was designed with that in mind. It will help create an environment where survivors are less likely to feel alone, ashamed or unsupported when seeking help.”

EPK said the clinic includes consultation rooms, counselling and therapy spaces, separate male and female observation rooms, child-friendly support areas, a reception and referral coordination unit, and integrated systems for case documentation and follow-up. The company added that mental health services have been integrated into the clinic’s care model to address psychological and emotional effects that can accompany gender-based violence.

Survivors can seek help by dialling 1195, according to the statement. EPK said a County Gender Based Violence Coordinator will receive complaints and support survivors with reporting, referrals and case management to help ensure timely and continuous care.

Nandi County officials said the project reflects a broader need for multi-agency collaboration to address gender-based violence and mental health challenges. “This facility demonstrates the power of partnership between government, private sector and community stakeholders in strengthening our health and social support systems. Gender-based violence and mental health challenges require coordinated responses, and this center brings these services closer to the people who need them most,” said Dr. Francis Sang, County Secretary, Nandi County.

The opening comes as Kenya continues to intensify national conversations on gender-based violence and femicide, including the need for stronger prevention measures and survivor protection systems, according to EPK’s statement. For businesses with large workforces and community footprints—particularly in agriculture and manufacturing—workplace and community safety programmes are increasingly intersecting with employee wellbeing, retention and community relations.

In the near term, the clinic’s impact will depend on utilisation, staffing, inter-agency coordination and sustained funding for counselling, documentation and follow-up services. The partners did not disclose the project’s cost or operational budget. EPK said it will continue supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening community safety and resilience for women, children and families.

Eastern Produce Kenya, working with the County Government of Nandi and partners Taylors of Harrogate and Infre, has opened an integrated Gender-Based Violence and Mental Health clinic at Nandi Hills County Hospital. The clinic is intended to strengthen survivor care, referrals and coordination between health services, law enforcement and social support providers.

Carrefour marks 10 years in Kenya with 34 stores, 3,000 jobs and KES 20 million customer rewards campaign

Carrefour marks 10 years in Kenya with 34 stores, 3,000 jobs and KES 20 million customer rewards campaign

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Carrefour, operated in Kenya by Majid Al Futtaim, is marking its 10-year anniversary in the country, reporting that it has grown to 34 stores nationwide and created more than 3,000 direct jobs since entering the market in 2016.

In a press release dated 22 May 2026 in Nairobi, the retailer said it now works with more than 690 Kenyan suppliers and sources 99% of its products locally. Carrefour also said it has strengthened its e-commerce offering over the period and built a modern retail supply chain as part of its expansion strategy.

The anniversary comes as Kenya’s formal retail sector continues to evolve following years of disruption and consolidation, including the exit or restructuring of several local supermarket chains. Carrefour’s decade-long buildout is being watched by suppliers, mall developers and competitors as an indicator of how international retailers can scale in Kenya while maintaining local procurement.

To commemorate the milestone, Carrefour has launched a nationwide customer appreciation campaign dubbed ‘10 Years, 10 Million Stories’, running from 22 May to 11 June across all stores and the Carrefour App. The company said the campaign includes rewards valued at over KES 20 million (KES 20 million stated), including 10 vehicles, school fee vouchers, home appliances, paid holiday trips and discounts of up to 50%.

Christophe Orcet, Regional Director – East Africa at Majid Al Futtaim Retail, said the anniversary reflected what he described as a sustained partnership with the local market. “Reaching this 10-year milestone reflects the strength of our partnership with the Kenyan market. Our focus has been on building a resilient retail ecosystem, working closely with local suppliers, empowering our people and continuously enhancing the customer experience,” Orcet said.

He added that the group expects further growth. “As we look ahead, we see significant opportunities to scale this model further, deepening our contribution to the economy while delivering sustained, long-term growth,” Orcet said.

The company’s update also referenced broader industry indicators. Citing the Boston Consulting Group, the statement said modern retail is expected to increase its market share by around five percentage points by 2030. It also cited Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) data indicating that wholesale and retail trade contributed 5.4% of GDP in the first quarter of 2025, and that employment in the sector grew by approximately 2% between 2023 and 2024.

For Kenyan suppliers, a retail chain that says it sources 99% of its products locally implies a large and relatively structured route to market, particularly for packaged food, fresh produce and household goods. However, supplier development often requires meeting stricter quality, packaging and delivery standards, and maintaining consistent volumes—factors that can reshape how SMEs and agribusinesses invest in production and logistics.

Carrefour’s continued store rollout and app-driven promotions also point to increased competition in urban retail nodes, where location strategy, last-mile delivery partnerships and pricing discipline remain central to winning market share. The growing role of loyalty and reward campaigns may further raise customer acquisition costs across the sector.

Looking ahead, Carrefour said it remains committed to investing in local communities, strengthening supply chains and expanding retail access as it enters its next decade in Kenya. The immediate milestone for customers will be the conclusion of the anniversary campaign on 11 June.

Carrefour, operated in Kenya by Majid Al Futtaim, is marking 10 years in the country, citing expansion to 34 stores, over 3,000 direct jobs and a supply chain that is 99% locally sourced. The retailer has also launched a customer appreciation campaign running from 22 May to 11 June with rewards valued at more than KES 20 million, according to a company statement.

Safaricom commits KES 114 million to 2026 Rhino Charge conservation drive

Safaricom commits KES 114 million to 2026 Rhino Charge conservation drive

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Safaricom Plc and the M-PESA Foundation have committed KES 114 million to support the 2026 Rhino Charge Challenge scheduled for Saturday, May 30, in Samburu, with the bulk of the funding earmarked for Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust’s conservation work, according to a company press release issued in May 2026.

Safaricom said KES 94 million of the total will be channelled through the M-PESA Foundation to support Rhino Ark activities, including fencing and protection of Mount Elgon Forest (Suam Block) and restoration efforts in the Mau Forest Complex across Narok, Kericho and Bomet counties. The company said the support will also extend to the Mount Kenya Forest Rehabilitation and Protection Project in Tharaka Nithi County.

The remaining KES 20 million will be provided by Safaricom Plc to support participation by three entry cars and to provide connectivity during the event. Safaricom said KES 17 million of its allocation will support Car No. 44 led by Adil Khawaja, the EV Explorers team led by Richard Kiplagat, and the all-ladies team Zambarau Heels on the Wheel led by Agnes Mwangi. The balance of KES 3 million will be used for network connectivity during the competition.

Speaking during a cheque handover ceremony at Safaricom headquarters in Nairobi, Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa linked the sponsorship to the company’s sustainability priorities. “This year, we are proud to commit KES 114 million through the M-PESA Foundation and Safaricom. As a company, sustainability remains central to how we create long-term value for our customers, communities, and the environment. Our support for the Rhino Charge reflects our commitment to practical conservation efforts that protect Kenya’s natural heritage while driving innovation and resilience,” Mr Ndegwa said, according to the press release.

Safaricom said the connectivity support will include deployment of 5G at the event site to improve communications for participants and spectators.

Under the team support allocation, Safaricom said Car No. 44 will receive KES 15 million, while EV Explorers and Zambarau Heels on the Wheel will each receive KES 1 million.

The Rhino Charge is an annual off-road 4×4 competition that raises funds for Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust, which focuses on conservation and protection of Kenya’s mountain ecosystems—often referred to as “water towers.” The event’s fundraising model has become a significant funding stream for conservation infrastructure, particularly electric fencing that aims to reduce human-wildlife conflict and protect key catchment areas.

Safaricom’s announcement comes as corporates continue to increase visibility around climate adaptation and water-tower protection, issues that have direct economic implications for Kenya’s agriculture, hydropower generation, and tourism value chains. Funding directed to fencing and rehabilitation can also influence local livelihoods by reducing crop losses and security risks associated with wildlife incursions, while enabling more predictable land use around protected areas.

Participants also framed the support as enabling greater competitiveness and representation. “As Team Zambarau, we are grateful for Safaricom’s support… This support not only empowers our team but also reinforces our shared mission of advancing conservation and protecting Kenya’s natural heritage through the Rhino Ark Kenya Charitable Trust,” said Elizabeth Wanjiku, a team member at Zambarau Heels on the Wheel, according to the statement.

Richard Kiplagat, team lead for EV Explorers, said the sponsorship will support the team’s second consecutive year in the competition. “As the only EV team in the competition, we are highly motivated not only to complete the challenge but also to emerge among the best, building on lessons from last year’s mechanical challenges as we champion the future of electric mobility and environmental conservation,” Mr Kiplagat said.

Safaricom cited Rhino Charge’s 2025 fundraising performance as a benchmark for the scale of giving the event attracts. According to the press release, the 2025 edition in Saimo Soi, Baringo County, raised KES 269.5 million. Safaricom said Adil Khawaja was the top fundraiser for the third consecutive year after raising KES 139.8 million, followed by Car No. 23 led by Peter Kinyua at KES 13.5 million and Car No. 63 led by Tim Carstens at KES 8.6 million.

Looking ahead to the 2026 event, Safaricom said the 37th edition is expected to attract 55 entries, including the 2025 overall winners Team Huzi (Car No. 33) and Team Zambarau. Separately, Rhino Ark Executive Director Christian Lambrechts said preparations were ongoing and projected higher participation. “This year’s preparations for the Rhino Charge Challenge are in full swing, and we expect a total of 65 entries to take part in the challenge and fundraising effort,” Mr Lambrechts said, according to the statement.

Safaricom and the M-PESA Foundation have committed KES 114 million to support the 2026 Rhino Charge Challenge set for May 30 in Samburu. The funding will go to Rhino Ark conservation projects—including fencing and forest restoration—alongside event connectivity and support for three competing teams.

Safaricom-backed Mohit Mediratta targets second PGK Equator Tour win in Thika

Safaricom-backed Mohit Mediratta targets second PGK Equator Tour win in Thika

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Sigona Golf Club’s Mohit Mediratta will seek to extend his early lead in the second edition of the PGK Equator Tour when the series moves to Thika Sports Club for its second leg running from Thursday, May 21 to Sunday, May 24, 2026, organisers said in a statement issued in Nairobi on May 21.

Mediratta, who is backed by Safaricom, enters the Thika event after winning the opening leg held in April at Vet Lab Sports Club, where his victory included a hole-in-one, according to the press release.

The tournament at the par-72 Thika Sports Club is expected to draw more than 50 professional golfers competing for overall honours as well as a corporate category title, the statement said.

The series matters for Kenya’s professional golf pipeline because, according to the organisers, the PGK Equator Tour acts as a competitive platform linked to international ambitions, including a pathway “on the road to the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.” The tour also serves as a pre-qualifier for Kenyan professionals targeting slots at the Magical Kenya Open, the country’s flagship international golf event.

Speaking during a training session ahead of the Thika leg, Mediratta said he expected tougher competition as he tries to defend his standing at the top of the leaderboard.

“I am keen to continue with the strong performance as we head to the second leg of the PGK Tour this week. The pressure is there, but I am looking forward to the challenge. As part of the corporate team supported by Safaricom, I am hopeful that we will retain the top corporate title,” Mediratta said.

Safaricom said other players under its backing who will be competing in Thika include Mutahi Kibugu, Samuel Njoroge and Matthew Wahome.

For Safaricom, the sponsorship links the listed telecommunications firm to a sports property that runs through the 2026/2027 season and reaches multiple venues, offering recurring brand exposure and stakeholder engagement opportunities across Kenya’s golf circuit. In the statement, Safaricom also outlined its business footprint, saying it serves 71.6 million customers across Kenya and Ethiopia and reported annual revenues of KES 400 billion as at March 2026. The company further stated that its total economic value was estimated at KES 1.1 trillion (US$8.5 billion) for the 12 months through March 2025.

The broader industry implication is that structured domestic tours can strengthen athlete development and deepen the sports events economy—supporting club venues, hospitality, logistics and related services in host towns such as Thika. A consistent calendar also provides playing opportunities for professionals who rely on competitive rounds to build form and ranking points ahead of higher-profile events.

According to the press release, the second edition of the PGK Equator Tour began in April 2026 and will run until February 2027, when the season will culminate in a grand finale. The Thika leg will be one of the key checkpoints in that schedule as players chase points, prize positions and qualification opportunities tied to the Magical Kenya Open pathway.

Sigona Golf Club’s Mohit Mediratta will headline the second leg of the PGK Equator Tour at Thika Sports Club from May 21 to May 24 after winning the opening event in April at Vet Lab Sports Club. Safaricom said the tour forms part of Kenya’s competitive pathway for professionals targeting the Magical Kenya Open and longer-term Olympic qualification.

SanlamAllianz Kenya sponsors seven runners for 2026 Cape Town Marathon

SanlamAllianz Kenya sponsors seven runners for 2026 Cape Town Marathon

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SanlamAllianz Kenya has sponsored seven Kenyan runners to participate in the 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, as the South African race enters what organisers describe as an “Evaluation Year” on its path to becoming the 8th Abbott World Marathon Major and the first on the African continent.

In a media release dated May 24, 2026, the insurer said it will provide a full sponsorship package for the athletes to compete in Cape Town. The company named the sponsored runners as Japheth Kiplagat, James Munga, Fridah Chepkite Lodepa, Josephat Kipkoech, Dixon Marende, Meshack Shivina and Emily Chepkor.

The development comes as the Cape Town Marathon seeks to join the global World Marathon Majors series, a list that currently includes races such as London, Berlin, Boston and Tokyo. Organisers say that once the event attains Major status, runners who complete the race will receive an official Abbott World Marathon Major star, with finishers in the candidacy period earning a “provisional star” that will later be upgraded.

According to the media release, the 2026 edition is expected to host more than 27,000 runners, including 8,500 international participants from 102 countries and runners from more than 25 African nations. Sanlam is listed as the title sponsor of the event.

SanlamAllianz Kenya said its sponsorship follows a nationwide challenge run on Strava, a fitness tracking platform, under its “African Champions Unite” campaign. The company said it partnered with running clubs and opened participation to recreational and professional runners.

“At SanlamAllianz Kenya, we stand firmly beside our athletes at every stage of their journey,” said Dr. Nyamemba Patrick Tumbo, Group CEO of Sanlam Allianz Holdings (Kenya) PLC, in the media release. He added: “Beyond sponsorships to professional elite runners, we designed the African Champions Unite Campaign to give back to our community by partnering with running clubs and inviting every Kenyan citizen to take part in the challenge, nurturing the dreams of Kenyan runners.”

The insurer said the campaign ran from April 20 to May 10, 2026 and that winners received a fully sponsored trip to Cape Town. According to the media release, the sponsorship package includes return flights, airport transfers, accommodation, marathon entry, travel insurance, food and beverages, and a race kit.

For Kenya’s corporate sector, the sponsorship highlights the continued role of private companies in financing sports participation and athlete mobility, particularly in events that offer global visibility. It also reflects how consumer fitness platforms such as Strava are increasingly being used to run nationwide engagement campaigns, linking brand activity to measurable participation.

The media release also points to increased competition incentives at the Cape Town Marathon. Organisers have set the 2026 winner’s prize at USD 35,000 (about KES 4.5 million), up from USD 25,000 (about KES 3.2 million) in 2025, according to SanlamAllianz Kenya. The higher purse may attract more elite runners and strengthen the event’s case as it seeks Major status.

Looking ahead, the key milestone will be whether the Cape Town Marathon secures Abbott World Marathon Major recognition following the evaluation period. For Kenyan runners and sponsors, the decision will determine whether the race becomes a permanent top-tier marathon destination within Africa’s time zone and travel radius, potentially opening more opportunities for participation and commercial partnerships in the region.

SanlamAllianz Kenya has sponsored seven Kenyan runners to compete at the 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon as the race undergoes an “Evaluation Year” in its bid to become an Abbott World Marathon Major. The insurer said the athletes were selected through a nationwide Strava challenge that ran from April 20 to May 10, 2026.

Sanlam Allianz Kenya sponsors seven elite runners for 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

Sanlam Allianz Kenya sponsors seven elite runners for 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon

3 min read

Sanlam Allianz Holdings (Kenya) PLC has sponsored seven elite Kenyan runners to participate in the 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, as the South African race enters what organisers describe as an “Evaluation Year” in its bid to become the eighth Abbott World Marathon Major.

In a media release dated May 21, 2026, SanlamAllianz Kenya said it had backed Japheth Kiplagat, James Munga, Fridah Chepkite Lodepa, Josephat Kipkoech, Dixon Marende, Meshack Shivina and Emily Chepkor to represent Kenya at the event.

The insurer said the 2026 marathon is expected to draw more than 27,000 runners, including 8,500 international participants from 102 countries and athletes from more than 25 African nations. According to the statement, finishers will receive a provisional Abbott World Marathon Major star that would be upgraded if the Cape Town Marathon attains Major status.

The announcement places Kenyan participation within a broader push by African cities and sponsors to elevate flagship sporting events to global recognition. For Kenya—home to some of the world’s most successful distance runners—corporate-backed participation in high-profile international races is also a branding and market-positioning tool for firms seeking stronger consumer visibility, particularly in retail-facing sectors such as insurance.

Sanlam Allianz Holdings (Kenya) PLC Group CEO Dr. Nyamemba Patrick Tumbo linked the sponsorship to the company’s community engagement through running clubs and open challenges.

“At SanlamAllianz Kenya, we stand firmly beside our athletes at every stage of their journey,” Dr. Tumbo said. “Beyond sponsorships to professional elite runners, we designed the African Champions Unite Campaign to give back to our community by partnering with running clubs and inviting every Kenyan citizen to take part in the challenge, nurturing the dreams of Kenyan runners.”

SanlamAllianz Kenya said the “African Champions Unite” campaign ran from April 20 to May 10, 2026, and was monitored on Strava. The company said the programme invited running enthusiasts across the country to compete for a fully sponsored trip to Cape Town.

According to the media release, the sponsorship package included return flights to Cape Town, airport transfers, accommodation, marathon entry, travel insurance, food and beverages, and a race kit.

The statement also highlighted an increase in the marathon’s winner prize. The 2026 edition will offer a first prize of USD 35,000 (about KES 4.5 million), up from USD 25,000 (about KES 3.2 million) in 2025, according to the company. Higher prize money typically increases elite-field competitiveness and can strengthen a race’s case for inclusion among global majors, which in turn drives sports tourism, broadcast interest and sponsorship activity.

For Kenyan athletes, an expanded international calendar with better-funded African races could provide more nearby, high-paying competition without the travel demands associated with Europe and North America. For Kenyan corporates, it signals an opportunity to attach brand visibility to endurance sports—an area with strong public resonance—while aligning with wellness and community initiatives.

Looking ahead, the Cape Town Marathon’s Major-status decision will be a key milestone for the region’s sports economy. For SanlamAllianz Kenya, the next test will be the on-road performance of its selected runners and whether the campaign model becomes a recurring sponsorship pathway tied to mass-participation sports.

Sanlam Allianz Holdings (Kenya) PLC has sponsored seven elite Kenyan runners to compete at the 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon as the race seeks Abbott World Marathon Major status. The insurer said the selection followed an “African Champions Unite” challenge run on Strava between April 20 and May 10, 2026.

PGK Equator Tour heads to Thika as Safaricom-backed Mohit Mediratta targets second-leg win

PGK Equator Tour heads to Thika as Safaricom-backed Mohit Mediratta targets second-leg win

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Sigona Golf Club’s Mohit Mediratta will headline the second leg of the PGK Equator Tour at Thika Sports Club from Thursday, May 21 to Sunday, May 24, after winning the opening leg in April at Vet Lab Sports Club, according to a statement issued in Nairobi on May 20, 2026.

Mediratta, who is backed by Safaricom, said he expects increased pressure at Thika’s par-72 course as other players target the top positions in the tour’s second edition, which runs from April 2026 to February 2027.

The tour stop in Thika is expected to attract more than 50 professional golfers competing for overall honours and the corporate category title, the statement said. Safaricom-backed players Mutahi Kibugu, Samuel Njoroge and Matthew Wahome are among those listed as contenders seeking to challenge Mediratta’s position on the leaderboard.

The tournament matters to Kenya’s sports and events economy because it provides competitive platforms that can help develop professional golf talent and sustain corporate sponsorship in local sport. The organisers say the PGK Equator Tour is part of the pathway to international competition and also serves as a pre-qualifier for Kenyan professional golfers seeking to play at the Magical Kenya Open.

In the statement, Mediratta linked his approach to the second leg to maintaining form after the first event, where he was the overall winner. “I am keen to continue with the strong performance as we head to the second leg of the PGK Tour this week. The pressure is there, but I am looking forward to the challenge. As part of the corporate team supported by Safaricom, I am hopeful that we will retain the top corporate title,” he said.

Safaricom’s continued sponsorship of golfers and related events places the listed telecommunications firm among corporates supporting Kenyan sport as part of broader brand and community engagement strategies. In an “About Safaricom” section included with the release, the company said it has more than 71.6 million customers across Kenya and Ethiopia and estimated its total economic value at KES 1.1 trillion (US$8.5 billion) for the 12 months through March 2025. The company also reported annual revenues of KES 400 billion as at March 2026.

Safaricom further said its M-PESA business generated KES 182.7 billion in revenue as at FY26 and that mobile money has contributed to financial inclusion in Kenya rising to 84.8% of the adult population in 2024 from 26.7% in 2006. Business News Kenya could not independently verify the figures; they were presented in the company’s statement.

For the local golf calendar, the tour’s schedule through February 2027 provides a multi-stop competitive series that can influence player rankings and visibility, while also strengthening host venues’ ability to attract spectators, sponsors and hospitality spending. The release said the PGK Equator Tour also plays “a key role on the road” to qualification for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, underscoring the strategic importance of consistent domestic competition for Kenyan professionals.

The second edition of the tour began in April 2026 and is set to conclude with a grand finale in February 2027, the statement said. The Thika leg is the next test for leading players as they pursue points, prize placements and corporate category honours in the months ahead.

Sigona Golf Club’s Mohit Mediratta will lead a Safaricom-backed contingent into the second leg of the PGK Equator Tour at Thika Sports Club from May 21 to 24. Organisers say the tour feeds into Kenya’s elite golf pipeline, including qualification pathways to the Magical Kenya Open and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

ANZA MMA schedules Pro Nights 002 for June 6 at Broadwalk Mall

ANZA MMA schedules Pro Nights 002 for June 6 at Broadwalk Mall

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ANZA MMA will hold its second professional mixed martial arts event, ANZA MMA Pro Nights 002, on Saturday, June 6 at Broadwalk Mall on Ojijo Road in Nairobi, with bouts set to start from 5pm, according to a media statement dated May 19, 2026.

The promotion said the event will feature fighters from across East Africa, listing Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan among the participating countries. The fight night follows ANZA MMA’s inaugural professional event held in December 2025.

The main event is set to pit Kenyan featherweight Ouhsummer Ali Abad, nicknamed “Ninja Turtle,” against South Sudan’s Peter Bushak. ANZA MMA said Ali Abad delivered a “first-round technical finish” during the December 2025 event and will face Bushak in a featherweight bout.

On the main card, Kenya’s George Itumo, known as “The Maverick,” is scheduled to face DR Congo’s Ken Boton in a bantamweight contest. ANZA MMA said Itumo won his December bout in the first round, while Boton comes off a win over Uganda’s Josiah Lumunya at Impact Championship.

Kenyan heavyweight Kevin Odongo is also listed to return, against Congolese heavyweight Romain Kasase. The statement also referenced rapper Octopizzo entering the cage with Odongo after his December fight.

The main card is completed by a featherweight bout between Tanzania’s Rashid Mlegelo of Dar MMA and a Zambian fighter identified as Chilufya.

On the preliminary card, ANZA MMA listed a middleweight bout between Alhassan Mosala of Nairobi Jiu-Jitsu Academy and William Odino, both from Kenya. Other preliminaries named in the statement include Zambia’s Mende against DR Congo’s Angtenda; Kenya’s Brian Munyi of Chanuka Self Defense against Uganda’s Farouk Ogwal; South Sudan’s Thon against Uganda’s Mukiibi; and Kenya’s Leslie Masiga against Uganda’s Justin Okot.

While the event is primarily a sports property, recurring fight nights have become part of Nairobi’s wider entertainment economy, generating demand for venue space, ticketing, security services, brand partnerships and adjacent hospitality spending, particularly for malls and mixed-use developments that host large crowds during weekend hours. Broadwalk Mall, located along Ojijo Road, is among the city’s established retail and leisure venues.

ANZA MMA also used the statement to position the event as a continuation of its December 2025 debut, saying “the first ANZA MMA pro event… completely [sold] out the venue,” and that “demand far exceeded capacity, with many spectators… turned away at the doors due to the packed arena.” The organisation did not disclose ticket prices, attendance figures, or revenue from the previous event.

The promoter also cited the entertainment crossover around the inaugural event, stating that attendees included public figures such as Nviiri the Storyteller, Boutross, Chiki Kuruka and Savara, as well as Kenyan MMA fighter Felista Mugo.

Tickets for the June 6 event are being sold via HustleSasa, according to the statement. ANZA MMA said further event materials, including posters and images from the first event, are available for download through links provided to media.

Next, attention will turn to whether the second event matches the December 2025 turnout and whether ANZA MMA can maintain a regular calendar of professional fight nights in Nairobi, a key factor in building sustainable athlete pathways and attracting regional participation.

ANZA MMA will host its second professional fight night, ANZA MMA Pro Nights 002, on June 6 at Broadwalk Mall on Ojijo Road in Nairobi. The card will feature fighters from Kenya and across the region, with Kenyan featherweight Ouhsummer Ali Abad set to headline against South Sudan’s Peter Bushak.

MUA Insurance Kenya joins Blue Company Project in anti-corruption pledge

MUA Insurance Kenya joins Blue Company Project in anti-corruption pledge

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MUA Insurance Kenya has joined The Blue Company Project, a private sector-led coalition that promotes collective anti-corruption action, the insurer said in a statement dated May 15, 2026 in Nairobi.

The announcement comes as corruption continues to affect households and businesses, with the company citing Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) data showing “more than half of Kenyans” reported witnessing bribery and “nearly one in three” encountering it directly. The statement also cited survey findings that about a quarter of citizens were asked to pay a bribe in the past year, with the average bribe at about KSh 6,724 in 2025, up 38% from KSh 4,878 the previous year.

In the statement, MUA said it is seeking to embed integrity within governance structures, internal controls and company culture, positioning the move as part of a business-led approach to reducing corruption risks beyond enforcement.

“Joining The Blue Company Project reinforces our belief that the private sector has both the responsibility and capacity to lead in addressing corruption. We are keen on ensuring that every decision we make reflects transparency and accountability with integrity remaining a core operational element for our business and associations,” said Nixon Shigoli, Country CEO and Principal Officer at MUA Insurance (Kenya) Limited.

The company’s remarks were made against a wider policy and enforcement environment in which, according to the statement, the EACC reported preventing losses of more than KSh 16.5 billion in the 2024/2025 financial year through enforcement and preventive measures. However, the persistence of bribery across sectors, including within parts of the private sector such as financial services, highlights why companies are being pushed to strengthen compliance and governance frameworks.

For Kenya’s insurance market, anti-corruption and integrity commitments are increasingly tied to trust—an essential factor in customer acquisition, claims handling, procurement, and partnerships with corporate and public-sector clients. Sector players also face growing expectations around governance standards from regulators, investors, reinsurers and corporate buyers, especially where procurement and intermediated distribution models can create points of vulnerability.

The Blue Company Project membership may therefore add to a broader trend of firms formalising ethics and compliance programmes, particularly in financial services where reputational risk can quickly translate into slower premium growth, higher compliance costs or reduced access to partnerships. While the statement does not disclose specific internal measures, MUA framed the initiative as focused on transparency, accountability and governance.

MUA also provided business performance context for its wider operations, stating that in 2024 it reported gross written premium of KSh 22.9 billion across its markets, up 11% year-on-year. It said insurance service results rose to KSh 1.7 billion, profit after tax increased to KSh 1.1 billion, total assets reached KSh 66.1 billion, and assets under management stood at KSh 65.2 billion.

Looking ahead, MUA said its alignment with other organisations through the coalition reflects an intention to support integrity-driven business practices in Kenya. Further detail on implementation—such as supplier due diligence, whistleblowing mechanisms, audit outcomes or compliance reporting—would likely shape how the market assesses the pledge over time.

MUA Insurance Kenya has joined The Blue Company Project, a private sector-led coalition focused on collective anti-corruption action, the firm said on May 15, 2026 in Nairobi. The move comes as EACC data cited in the statement points to persistent bribery in everyday transactions, including an increase in the average bribe reported in 2025.

KCB FC targets FKF Cup final spot against Tusker in Nyayo Stadium semi-final

KCB FC targets FKF Cup final spot against Tusker in Nyayo Stadium semi-final

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KCB FC will play Tusker FC on Saturday at Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium in the FKF Cup semi-final, as the Kenya Premier League side targets a place in the final after falling short in the 2023/2024 title match.

The club said head coach Robert Matano’s squad last reached the FKF Cup final in the 2023/2024 season, losing to Kenya Police on penalties after a goalless draw in regular time. The Nyayo Stadium tie sets up another high-stakes meeting with a domestic rival as KCB looks to convert its recent cup run into silverware.

According to the club’s match preview, KCB opened its knockout campaign with a 1-0 win over Compel FC before advancing with a 4-0 victory over Zetech Titans in the Round of 32. The team then beat Chebaiywa Lions 3-0 in the Round of 16 to reach the quarter-finals. KCB said Richard Omondi scored the decisive goal in the quarter-final to eliminate Nairobi United, a result the club contrasted with its previous season’s exit to the same opponent by a 1-0 scoreline in the Round of 16.

Matano said the team’s preparation has focused on maintaining discipline while managing the challenge posed by Tusker.

“We have worked hard to reach this stage and the players have shown great discipline and character, Tusker is a strong opponent, but we are prepared for the challenge and focused on achieving our objective of reaching the final,” Robert Matano, Head Coach, KCB FC, said in the statement.

Team captain Alembo said the squad believes it has improved tactically since earlier matches in the season.

“The boys are ready. We have had our winnings; we have improved our strategy. We are ready to take on Tusker FC and emerge victorious,” Alembo, Team Captain, KCB FC, said.

KCB also pointed to a clean-sheet run in the competition as a key performance marker ahead of the semi-final. The club said it has reached the last four without conceding a goal, with Fadhili Masoud, Nashon Alembi, Siraj Mohammed and Victor Okello forming the core of the starting defensive unit during the campaign.

The FKF Cup remains an important trophy in Kenya’s football calendar, offering clubs a separate path to silverware beyond league performance while attracting sponsor attention and fan engagement across key urban venues. For corporates that back club football, deep cup runs also provide predictable matchday visibility and media coverage at a time when sports marketing budgets face increased scrutiny on returns.

KCB Group-backed KCB FC sits within the bank’s broader sports portfolio, which the organisation says includes KCB Women Volleyball Club and KCB Rugby Football Club, alongside support for other disciplines such as chess, athletics and golf. The bank said it has spent “millions of shillings” on sponsorships over the years, though it did not disclose a specific figure for current-season football support.

After the FKF Cup semi-final, KCB said it will return to league action in the SportPesa league, with a match against Sofapaka scheduled for May 17 at Kasarani Annex.

KCB FC will face Tusker FC in the FKF Cup semi-final at Nairobi’s Nyayo Stadium on Saturday, seeking to reach the final after last season’s runners-up finish. The club says it has not conceded a goal in the competition so far, underlining a defensive run it hopes will carry into the decisive tie.