STANDARD BANK AND SAFARICOM TELECOMMUNICATIONS ANNOUNCE USD 138 MILLION PARTNERSHIP TO EXPAND NETWORK ACCESS

Standard Bank (Trading as Stanbic in Kenya), Africa’s biggest bank by assets, has partnered with Safaricom Telecommunications, Kenya’s largest telecommunications provider, to provide funding of USD138 million (approximately KES 17.94 billion) as part of investment towards Safaricom Telecommunications Ethiopia PLC, STEP.

The bank acted as the sole arranger, lender, and facility agent on the term facility to STEP and played an advisory role. Standard Bank’s financing facilitates Safaricom’s ongoing rollout of digital infrastructure and services in Ethiopia.

Dr Joshua Oigara, Regional Chief Executive for East Africa, Standard Bank Group, said, “This partnership reflects our commitment to enabling sustainable growth across the region. By supporting the expansion of digital connectivity in Ethiopia, we are strengthening economic linkages, opening new opportunities for businesses and communities, and contributing to the advancement of East Africa’s digital economy.”

Anthony Ndegwa, Executive Vice President for Telecoms, Media and Technology at Stanbic Kenya’s Corporate and Investment Banking, said, “We are honoured to have partnered with Safaricom again in enabling and supporting their ongoing vision to drive digital transformation and inclusion in Ethiopia.” 

The two businesses worked side by side in the development of the financial solutions that were bespoke to the business while responsive to the market’s needs.

Peter Ndegwa, Safaricom Plc Chief Executive Officer, said, “As a business, we are guided by innovation and strategic partnerships. We aim to transform lives at scale, empowering youth, entrepreneurs, and underserved communities to fully participate in Ethiopia’s digital economy and realise the promise of shared prosperity by 2030.” 

“Through this partnership we are given the opportunity to pursue this goal and grow further to digitally enable Africa,” added Ndegwa.

The telecommunication company acquired licence to operate in Ethiopia in 2021, and Standard Bank was one of the advisors and financiers who worked with them as they deployed services and built the network in the country.

The government of Ethiopia has also been deliberate in growing their economy through adaptation of regulations which has resulted in a significant growth in the uptake of internet. According to the World Bank report, Empowering Ethiopians by Laying the Digital Foundations for Economic Growth, between 2020 and 2024, at least 4 million more people gained internet access, increasing coverage from 15 to 19 percent of the population. Although each of the new mobile users has access to broadband internet, not all use data, so 4 million is a minimum estimate for new internet users.

Safaricom recently announced 10.1 million three-month active customers, after only being in the Ethiopian market for four years.

“As a bank we are dedicated in partnering with relevant parties to drive infrastructure development that will help accelerate the growth of the continent’s economy. Digital and financial inclusion in the African market has been one of the key objectives to break barriers and enabling individuals, communities and businesses to access affordable financial products and services that meet their needs,” says Taitu Wondwosen, Head of Standard Bank in Ethiopia.

“This partnership demonstrates the power of regional collaboration in unlocking long term value. Standard Bank remains committed to enabling growth across the region through sustainable investment,” adds Dr. Joshua Oigara, Regional Chief Executive for Stanbic Bank.

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THE KENYA JOBS AND ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION (KJET) PROJECT COMES TO AN END BENEFITING 94 CLUSTERS

PERMANENT SECRETARY SUSAN MANGENI SPEAKING DURING A SESSION 

The Micro and Small Enterprises

Authority (MSEA) has concluded the roll out the Cohort 1 Business Development

Services (BDS) Classroom Training under Component 2 of the Kenya Jobs and

Economic Transformation (KJET) Project 

Speaking during a monitoring exercise of the training in Kiambu and Kajiado counties,

the Principal Secretary State Department for MSMEs Development Hon. Susan

Mang’eni, highlighted the transformational nature of the KJET cluster-based model.

She noted that many MSMEs struggle to grow due to operating individually and lacking

the scale required to negotiate competitively, adopt technology, or access finance.“The KJET Project is redefining how Kenya supports its micro and small enterprises.

According  to the PS the focus is no longer on isolated interventions, but on coordinated, structured, and high impact support that strengthens entire clusters and value chains. Through this BDS programme, we are equipping MSMEs with the tools they need to improve productivity, formalize operations, access new markets, and build sustainable businesses. These trainings are not an end in themselves, they are the foundation on which we will scale Kenya’s competitiveness, job creation, and inclusive economic growth under the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda.”

The training which officially began on 10th November 2025, has been

implemented in all 47 counties over the last 5 weeks, reaching the 94 clusters selected

for the first cohort.

Component 2 of the KJET project aims to strengthen the productivity and growth of

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) clusters operating within the priority

value chains identified under the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda; Edible

Oils, Construction Materials, Textiles, Rice, Tea, Coffee, Dairy, Leather, the Blue Economy, and Minerals. 

Through structured Business Development Services training and targeted co-investment support, the component is designed to stimulate

enterprise development, improve market access, and support the creation and improvement of jobs.

The nationwide training has equipped selected MSME clusters with practical business

skills drawn from a rich 12-module curriculum that enhance enterprise performance,

increase productivity, and build long-term competitiveness. By preparing MSMEs to

access new opportunities and grow sustainably, the programme contributes directly

to Kenya’s broader economic transformation goals. The sessions feature hands-on

exercises, practical case studies, and interactive group work led by experienced

facilitators.

The 94 clusters will proceed to a three 

month mentorship phase, where each group will receive tailored, in-person

support to help them apply the lessons learned, refine operations, and strengthen

business performance.

MSEA encourages eligible cooperatives, associations, and cluster-based MSMEs to

apply for Cohort 2 of the BDS Training, which is currently open until 31 December

2025. Interested clusters are advised to apply early to benefit from this support

offered  Component 2 of the KJET Project via https://kjet.msea.go.ke/

DR. REUBEN KIGAME DISTRIBUTES WHEELCHAIRS IN VIHIGA COUNTY

 Presidential Aspirant Dr. Reuben Kigame today distributed wheelchairs and cool boxes to persons with disabilities in Vihiga County as part of his "Jenga Mkenya" political agenda.

The items were provided by the Reuben Kigame Foundation (RKF) in partnership with Partners for Care. Dr. Kigame was joined by Rev. Dr. Job Osiako, Chairman of the Bunyore Council of Elders, during the exercise.

The team visited Essong'olo village and Emusiriri village in West Bunyore, Luanda constituency, spreading joy and empowerment to persons living with disabilities. Dr. Kigame emphasized RKF's core commitments: dignity, justice, and hope.

"We must work towards integrating persons with disabilities into all aspects of society, be it education, employment, or family life," Dr. Kigame said. "Giving wheelchairs is not just an act of charity, but a way to restore dignity to those often neglected by society."

The event highlighted the importance of making public spaces accessible to all, ensuring equal opportunities for everyone.

INNOVATIVE FINANCING EMERGES AS AFRICA'S KEY TO FOOD SECURITY AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE

Few sectors offer Kenya as much unexplored potential as agriculture does. Despite contributing to over a quarter of the country’s GDP, supplying millions of Kenyans with sustenance and employment opportunities, the sector still remains under-developed and under-funded. Even as the global demand for safe, high-quality food rises and climate shocks intensify, the agriculture sector receives less than five percent of total bank lending. Compared to a Ksh. 250 billion food imports bill, experts warn that the financing mismatch is a signal that can undermine the country’s long-term economic goals.

At the recently concluded Global G.A.P TourStop in Nairobi, experts highlighted that this was a missed opportunity in advancing Kenya’s sovereignty in the global agriculture markets and investment in agri-food systems that could unlock massive economic gains and boost employment.

This challenge is not unique to Kenya. Across Africa, farmers face a financing gap of USD 65 billion, according to AGRA, clearly pointing out the scale of under-investment in the sector. Despite Kenya allocating an additional Ksh 3.8 billion toward agricultural financing, the sector still remains underfunded at only four percent of GDP. According to experts at the forum, bridging this financing gap requires a fundamental shift in how smallholder farmers and agri-SMEs are financed.

In Kenya, while the sector was allocated an additional KSh 3.8 billion toward agricultural financing, it remains underfunded at only four percent of GDP. The message from policymakers, financiers, and development partners at the forum was clear: bridging this gap requires a fundamental shift in how smallholder farmers and agri-SMEs are financed. The 3-day forum that explored solutions under the theme Driving the Region’s Agri-Food Trade Through Compliance and Product Diversification, was supported by the European Union, Global G.A.P, TradeMark Afriva, IFC, and Absa Bank Kenya

“Agri-financing in Kenya sits at about four percent, compared to agriculture’s 22 percent contribution to GDP. That gap must close,” said Simon Kinuthia, Head of Agribusiness at Absa Bank Kenya. He also noted that Absa Bank aims to progressively scale lending to match agriculture’s economic weight of financing from current 4 percent to at least over 20 percent.

During the forum, a recurring theme was the missing middle in agricultural financing, where transactions are deemed too risky for commercial banks and too large for microfinance institutions. In these cases, financial institutions will demand collateral of up to 120 percent, which excludes most smallholder agri-prenuers.

Antoinette Tesha, Investment Director at Trade Catalyst Africa, explained that women-led businesses face even higher barriers. Trade Catalyst Africa is closing this gap through a data-driven climate finance facility, supported by Mastercard Foundation and Trade and Development Bank. Globally, similar innovations are taking shape. Examples include the FarmFit Fund by IDH, which is a €100 million blended finance vehicle, which already reaches more than three million smallholders, while the Asia Climate-Smart Landscape Fund channels capital into sustainable agriculture with climate co-benefits.

Fintech firms have not been left behind in reshaping agri-finance, with companies like Avenews extending credit based on trade data and customer orders, rather than title deeds.

“Agribusinesses need speed and agility. Cash flow is king. We finance based on transactions, not just balance sheets,” said Nancy Kinyanjui, Managing Director, Avenews.

Experts at the forum also expressed concerns about risk exposure and losses due to lack of insurance covers. In fisheries, for instance, many producers lack cooling facilities and have little understanding of risk cover leaving them vulnerable to severe losses. Elizabeth Gathu from MicroSave Consulting advised agri-prenuers to invest in tailored, gender and climate-sensitive insurance covers to mitigate such risks.

The IFC, through the AgriConnect Program, is working with banks to develop bespoke farmer-focused products and strengthen supply chains, with the goal of creating better quality jobs in agriculture. Experts emphasized that these solutions must connect to the broader global food security and hunger reduction objectives.

During the forum, Absa Bank reinforced its strategic shift from lender to ecosystem partner. Moderating a panel discussion, Absa Bank’s Agribusiness Specialists, Daniel Munyambu, outlined the bank’s four-pillar agri-business strategy: access to information, access to markets, coaching and mentorship, and sustainable finance.

“Standards such as Global G.A.P are no longer optional if farmers want access to the European Union or UK markets,” Munyambu said.

Absa, he added, supports farmers to navigate compliance, from traceability and audits to forex solutions, advisory and logistics, to help them integrate into global markets. This places Absa at the center of Africa’s push for climate-resilient, market-ready agriculture. The bank is also developing green financing tools to back climate-smart practices as farmers adopt technologies like solar irrigation, cold storage and resilient seed systems.

In Kenya, smallholder farmers account for nearly 70 percent of national food production, yet remain the most underfinanced, undermining the EU-inspired farm-to-fork approach, which envisions a seamless chain from production to consumption that guarantees food safety, access, and sustainability.

Further, participants highlighted the role of technology in improving risk assessment, loss reduction and transparency in supply chains. They noted that technology levels the playing field, with AI-driven scoring and digital wallets enhancing efficiency and faster processing of loans to farmers.

They also noted that financing alone will not transform agri-food systems. Transport, cold chain logistics, and certification and cross-border standards continue to hinder the sector’s growth. Urgent in the priorities were alignment with AfCFTA standards and tighter regulations to protect farmers from predatory lenders.

As the forum drew to a conclusion, all participants were in consensus that Africa’s agri-food transformation hinges on smart, sustainable, and innovative capital. With accessible financing and compliance, Africa’s food security and household resilience will be strengthened.

In concluding the forum, Kinyanjui reminded audiences that Africa needs to unlock financing that fuels growth, not debt traps.

TIM-SKY MEDIA SERVICES CLAIMS TOP HONORS AT THE 2024 PRSK AWARDS OF EXCELLENCE

Tim-Sky Media Services, an award-winning regional public relations and communications agency, swept this year's 2024 Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK) Awards of Excellence, securing top honours in the Partnership Engagement Initiative of the Year and Internal Communication Campaign of the Year categories.

The Agency won the Partnership Engagement Initiative of the Year for its work on the Absa Kip Keino Classic, a flagship international athletics event now ranked as a Gold-level meet in the World Athletics Continental Tour. Tim-Sky Media Services also received the Internal Communication Campaign of the Year award for the Absa Let’s Move Campaign, an internal communication campaign designed to strengthen employee engagement across the organisation.

Speaking during the gala dinner, Tim-Sky Media Services General Manager and Client Service Director, Bev Naliaka, attributed the Agency’s success to the dedication of the team and the trust placed in them by clients.

“These awards not only highlight the exemplary work delivered here at Tim-Sky Media Services but also reflect the trust our clients continue to place in us. At Tim-Sky Media Services, we believe in the power of communication to connect, build brands, shape culture, and create platforms for authentic storytelling,” said Ms. Naliaka.

The awards further underscore Tim-Sky Media’s commitment to delivering innovative, strategic and dynamic communication solutions that position its clients at the forefront of their industries.

“I would like to thank PRSK for this honour and acknowledge our client Absa Bank Kenya for continually trusting us to tell their stories,” she added.

For Tim-Sky Media Services, this double win marks a significant chapter in the Agency’s expanding presence in the communications landscape. Driven by a youthful, strategic and forward-looking approach, the Agency looks to continue its growth in an increasingly dynamic media environment.

Other winners of the night included IMG Kenya, Ascent, Winnie Gor Africa, Calla PR and Engage Communications who were also recognised for their outstanding work in various categories.

MK-Africa and Absa Kenya Foundation unveil partnership to empower youth sustainability leaders

MK-Africa, the creator of the premier youth-led sustainability innovation platform, MyLittleBigThing, has entered a strategic partnership with the Absa Kenya Foundation (AKF) to empower the next generation of sustainability champions. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed on Monday, coincided with the launch of the two-day MyLittleBigThing Innovation Bootcamp.

MyLittleBigThing by MK-Africa is a leading impact initiative that empowers African youth to develop innovative solutions to sustainability challenges. It is a platform where youth transform their passion for sustainability into scalable, real-world solutions.

This week, 50 high-potential youth innovators are participating in a two-day bootcamp focused on problem validation, prototyping, and strategic clarity. The intensive sessions will culminate in the Final Pitch Showcase, where the innovators present their refined solutions.

"Today marks a pivotal moment for African youth innovation. The MyLittleBigThing Challenge is about seeing tomorrow’s sustainability leaders today and providing them with the tools and mentorship to drive tangible change. This partnership is a powerful validation of our mission to ensure young people are at the forefront of creating a sustainable future. We are proud to be the leader in sustainable youth-led innovation, equipping a new generation with the skills to address society's biggest challenges," MK-Africa CEO, Muthoni Kanyana said.

 

On his part, Absa Bank Kenya Head of Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Charles Wokabi said: “At Absa, we see the stories and potential of the upcoming generations of African innovators. Our partnership with MK-Africa reflects our commitment to nurturing talent, strengthening innovation, and preparing youth for the future of work. Through this innovation bootcamp, we are equipping young people with practical, employability and entrepreneurial skills by empowering sustainable value chains and driving financial inclusion and digital economic empowerment.”

The AKF is focused on empowering the youth through innovation and sustainable development. Through this partnership, AKF is supporting the bootcamp as the official innovation Bootcamp partner, aligning with its pillars of Education & Skills Development and Entrepreneurship & Economic Empowerment.

Among others, the AKF’s support enables the bootcamp to provide suitable logistical support, access to mentors for the innovators and to embed key learning tools, including the #ReadytoWork programme, into the cohort's curriculum.

The one-year partnership will run until December 31, 2026, and establishes a strong collaboration between MK-Africa and AKF.  

“By partnering with MK Africa, we are championing programmes that build practical, future-fit skills, and we look forward to exploring additional avenues to support the growth of the next generation of African sustainability innovators,” added Mr. Wokabi.

MIKE SONKO MAKES A POLITICAL COMEBACK WITH NEW PARTY

Former Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko has today signaled his political comeback to the murky world of politics with the formal registration of his new political vehicle dubbed National Economic Development party (NEDP)

  

Speaking to journalist after the interim registration the former Nairobi boss said this is the party for ordinary Kenyans saying it's time to end political dominance of old parties.Sonko is deputised by KEMU president a calculated move seen to tap the Gen z to his party.

The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) officially handed over the Certificate of  Registration for the Party to Sonko on Tuesday morning. This clearance grants the party the authority to sponsor candidates in the upcoming general elections in 2027.

Sonko has risen through politics from member of parliament to senator and later Nairobi Governor and his re entry into active national politics is set to rattle the already complicated matrix for the united opposition and the ruling party UDA.

KENYA JOBS AND ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATION (KJET) PROJECT BENEFITS 94 CLUSTERS THROUGH TRAINING OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Lenel leather Director Leonard Ng'etich (centre)

The Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) has rolled out the Cohort 1 Business Development Services (BDS) Classroom Training under Component 2 of the Kenya Jobs and Economic Transformation (KJET) Project, which focuses on enhancing MSME cluster competitiveness. 

Speaking during the commencement of the training in Isiolo county, the Director General Micro and Small Enterprises Authority Mr. Henry Rithaa noted that the project’s goal is not just to train MSMEs, but to transform them into engines of innovation, job creation, and inclusive economic growth under the BETA agenda.

“This training marks a pivotal shift in how MSMEs are supported in Kenya. For the first time, clusters across all counties are receiving structured, practical, and market-driven skills that directly address the gaps limiting their growth. Our goal is simple to enhance productivity, unlock new markets, and position Kenyan enterprises to compete regionally and globally. The KJET Project is not just a training intervention; it is an investment in the long-term competitiveness and resilience of our MSMEs under the BETA agenda.” Henry Rithaa, Director General, MSEA

Once the training is done, clusters will move into a three-month mentorship phase, where each group will receive tailored, in-person support to help them apply the lessons learned, refine operations, and strengthen business performance.

The training which officially began on 10 November 2025 across ten counties will be implemented progressively in all 47 counties over the coming 5 weeks reaching the 94 clusters selected under cohort 1. 

Component 2 of the KJET project aims to strengthen the productivity and growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) clusters operating within the 10 priority value chains identified under the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda; Edible Oils, Construction Materials, Textiles, Rice, Tea, Coffee, Dairy, Leather, the Blue /Economy, and Minerals. Through structured Business Development Services training and targeted co-investment support, the component is designed to stimulate enterprise development, improve market access, and support the creation and improvement of jobs.

This nationwide exercise equips selected MSME clusters with practical business skills drawn from a rich 12 module curriculum that enhance enterprise performance, increase productivity, and build long-term competitiveness. By preparing MSMEs to access new opportunities and grow sustainably, the programme contributes directly to Kenya’s broader economic transformation goals.

 The sessions feature hands-on exercises, practical case studies, and interactive group work led by experienced facilitators.

MSEA encourages eligible cooperatives, associations, and cluster-based MSMEs to apply for Cohort 2 of the BDS Training, which is currently open until 31 December 2025. Interested clusters are advised to apply early to benefit from this support offered under Component 2 of the KJET Project via https://kjet.msea.go.ke

The project aims to benefit at least 45,000 Kenyans, including at least 6,800 women through new or improved job opportunities.

MARS WRIGLEY EXPANDS KENYA OPERATION WITH A NEW SUGAR-FREE GUM PRODUCTION LINE

Mars Wrigley Kenya has today unveiled a sugar-free gum production line at its Athi River facility, an investment that builds on the more than $70 million the confectioner has already deployed in the country. 

The company, which already supports over 3,500 direct and indirect jobs, plans to invest an additional $33 million over the next three years. The expansion draws from Kenya’s growing importance as a manufacturing springboard for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region. 

The facility will supply the Orbit brand of sugar-free gum to Sub-Saharan Africa and Extra to Arabic-speaking markets across Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Libya, Lebanon, the UAE and the wider Gulf.

The shift to local production marks a strategic break from the company’s long-standing reliance on its POZ facility in Poland, from where all sugar-free gum for the region has previously been sourced. Moving production to Athi River helps Mars Wrigley to cut lead times, reduce dependence on European imports and improve supply-chain resilience across fast-growing African and Middle Eastern markets. 

Speaking at the launch Ismael Bello, General Manager for Mars Wrigley in Sub-Saharan Africa, said the decision to manufacture sugar-free gum in Kenya for the first time “signals our confidence in the country’s potential as a regional hub”. He added that the investment would boost the company’s ability to supply “high-quality, affordable products” while supporting Kenya’s export performance and job creation. 

“Today is a proud day for our entire team” said Plant Director, Mr. Mustaffa Bin Kamaludin “Our new sugar-free gum line integrates state-of-the-art technology that will help enhance efficiency and elevate our sustainability performance. But more importantly, the line deepens our commitment to developing local talent and positioning Kenya as a center of excellence in confectionery manufacturing. 

The initiative forms part of the company’s wider plan to localize manufacturing and reinforce regional supply networks, a strategy that aligns with Kenya’s ambitions to anchor more value-added production in the country. 

Kenyan Mixologist Billy Kigocha Triumphs in Global Hennessy My Way MixologistChallenge, Showcasing African Craftsmanship.

Billy Matiku Kigocha, a mixologist from Kenya, has cemented his place on the global mixology stage by achieving a remarkable victory in the Mystery Challenge segment at the prestigious Hennessy My Way 2025 Global Finale in Cognac, France.

Kigocha, who first emerged as a finalist in The Hennessy My Way Mixologist Africa competition

with his signature cocktail recipe, Ajabu – “A Ritual of Wonder and Legacy,” represented the

pinnacle of African bartending creativity and sustainability.

The journey culminated in an enriching and challenging week in Cognac from October 27th to

November 1st, where Kigocha joined other global finalists. The Hennessy My Way competition

was launched to inspire mixologists to push creative boundaries while also providing a proving

ground for the use of sustainable techniques, culturally and globally. African finalists, including

Kigocha, were celebrated for their innovative approach, using indigenous ingredients, sustainable practices, and ritualized service to translate heritage into a form of hospitality that travels across

borders.

In a stunning display of skill and ingenuity, Billy Kigocha rose above 16 other elite bartenders

from around the world to claim victory in the intense Mystery Challenge. This segment required

competitors to creatively pair international ingredients with Hennessy, highlighting Kigocha's

exceptional palate, technical mastery, and ability to perform under pressure.

"Billy's success is a testament to the depth of talent emerging from the African mixology scene,"

a spokesperson for Hennessy stated. "His cocktail 'Ajabu' and his performance in the Mystery Challenge embody the spirit of creativity, sustainability, and cultural storytelling that the Hennessy My Way competition champions."Rounding out the experience, Kigocha attended an exclusive masterclass at the Maison’s Grand

Salon with multi-award-winning Australian bartender and photographer, Millie Tang, one of the world’s most celebrated cocktail creatives.

 The session provided him with a crucial opportunity to gain inspiration and spark a creative exchange at the highest level of the craft.

Billy Kigocha’s triumph shines a spotlight on Kenya and the African continent's rich contribution to the global culinary and cocktail landscape, proving that local traditions and sustainable practices can lead to world-class excellence

FAZUL MAHAMED UNDER THE MICROSCOPE AGAIN: EACC FACES PRESSURE FOR TRANSPARENCY

A new complaint filed with the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) on 27 November 2025 has reopened a long-running public debate around the academic history, eligibility for office, and accountability of former NGO Coordination Board boss and former Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) Director-General Fazul Mahamed.

In the letter, citizen Haggai Odiawo urges the anti-graft agency to explain why, despite earlier investigative findings and persistent public concerns, Fazul has allegedly continued to access state benefits tied to offices he previously held. Further, based on publicly available salary structures, Mr Fazul earned approximately KSh. 56,240,000 in cumulative salaries and allowances while serving as the CEO of the NGO Co-ordination Board and the Director General of the Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA). Odiawo wants Fazul to refund these monies.

Odiawo’s petition is not the first to raise concerns, but it appears to be the sharpest yet, and it arrives at a moment when Kenyans are increasingly demanding transparency from public institutions. Odiawo claims that the public deserves clarity on long-standing questions about the academic qualifications presented by Fazul during his appointments to senior public regulatory roles. He further states that, based on publicly available reports, Fazul may have been registered at Egerton University under the name “Mahamed Yusuf” and that he was allegedly discontinued in his third year. Odiawo argues that if these publicly circulated claims are accurate, they raise legitimate questions about whether he met the qualifications required for the positions he held and whether the public should recover any benefits linked to those appointments.

None of Odiawo’s assertions, however, translates into findings of wrongdoing. To date, no court has issued a conviction relating to Fazul’s academic records, and he has publicly maintained his right to hold office. Yet, the existence of official inquiries in the past makes the issue difficult to ignore.

The new petition references previous investigations conducted by oversight bodies, including the Commission on Administrative Justice (CAJ) and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission itself, which, according to their own public reports, raised concerns about inconsistencies in the academic documentation provided at the time of Fazul’s appointment to the NGO Coordination Board in 2014.

In its 2016 report, CAJ stated that it was unable to authenticate the degree certificate said to have been used in the appointment process, and recommended administrative action. EACC, also examining the matter at the time, indicated similar difficulties in tracing the certificate. These reports did not amount to criminal culpability but formed the basis of a long-running public conversation about transparency in appointments to public office.

Despite this history, Fazul went on to serve as the Director-General of the Private Security Regulatory Authority, where he became a prominent and often polarising reformist voice. He drove major regulatory changes and attracted both praise and criticism from across the security sector. His tenure ended in 2024, but Odiawo’s letter argues that unresolved questions from earlier years continue to cast a shadow over his time in public service.

The heart of Odiawo’s complaint is not simply whether Fazul possesses a particular academic certificate, but whether public institutions follow through when questions arise about senior appointments. The citizens’ petition challenges EACC to provide a definitive public position: Was action taken on the earlier findings? Were the concerns ever formally closed? And if so, on what basis?

Odiawo further urges the commission to consider whether any state benefits linked to the questioned appointments should be reviewed, not on the presumption of guilt, but on the principle of good governance and accountability. His letter reflects a broader sentiment among citizens who believe that unanswered questions erode public trust in regulatory bodies.

At its core, the issue is now bigger than one individual: it is a test of Kenya’s institutional integrity. The petition forces the EACC, once again, to confront a file that refuses to disappear and to deliver the clarity that many Kenyans feel has been missing for nearly a decade.

Whether the commission will reopen the investigation, issue a statement, or decline action remains to be seen. But as Odiawo’s letter demonstrates, the public appetite for transparency is not fading, and oversight bodies may finally need to confront the lingering questions head on.