Kenya has converted $3.5 billion of outstanding Chinese railway loans from U.S. dollars to yuan, cutting annual debt-servicing costs by $215 million. Treasury Secretary John Mbadi said the move diversifies currency exposure and could halve the loans’ interest rates. Analysts note the shift may set a precedent for other African countries seeking cheaper financing. The conversion aligns with China’s broader goal of expanding yuan internationalisation while reducing Kenya’s reliance on dollar-denominated debt.

Kenya’s public debt rose by KSh 1.04 trillion between January and August 2025, reaching KSh 11.97 trillion, or 67.4% of GDP, Treasury CS John Mbadi reported. Domestic debt accounted for KSh 6.57 trillion, while external debt stood at KSh 5.40 trillion. The government raised USD 1.5 billion through its latest Eurobond, using part to repay an earlier bond. Mbadi said debt-management measures aim to reduce repayment pressure and safeguard fiscal stability.

Kenya is participating in the 2025 IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C., from October 13–18. The country aims to advance economic reforms, strengthen debt sustainability, and secure development financing, including concessional loans and grants. Delegates will discuss climate finance, regional integration, and private-sector investment, while engaging in bilateral talks to support Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda and long-term growth objectives.

Delays in approving genetically modified maize, cotton, and potato cost Kenya over KSh 20 billion in five years. Regulatory hurdles, misinformation, and ongoing court cases have slowed adoption, reducing crop yields, raising pesticide costs, and limiting food security. Experts warn that immediate commercialisation could generate more than KSh 60 billion over 30 years, cut pesticide use, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and protect biodiversity.

The Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) will suspend sea exports of avocados from Oct. 20, 2025, citing insufficient volumes and the need to ensure only mature fruit is shipped. Air exports of Hass, Fuerte, Pinkerton, and Jumbo varieties will continue under mandatory inspections. The closure also affects avocado oil exports processed after this date. AFA will review crop maturity trends in January 2026 and enforce strict compliance, including penalties for violations.

CIC Insurance Group launched the USD-denominated Global Balanced Special Fund, giving Kenyans direct access to domestic and offshore investments. CIC Asset Management spreads funds across equities, ETFs, and fixed-income instruments to manage risk and enhance returns. The fund partners with Trade Development Bank and Swiss private bank Vontobel for offshore execution. CMA-approved, it targets medium- to long-term capital growth and lowers barriers for investors previously restricted to institutional funds.