Kenya announced plans for a debt-for-food swap of up to $1 billion, allowing the country to redirect part of its debt repayments toward food security programs. The government also intends to raise about KSh 370 billion from international markets to support its budget and development needs. Officials confirmed that Kenya is among the first African nations to pursue such an arrangement and is in ongoing talks with creditors.

The Africa Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) Summit was held in Nairobi, Kenya, on September 10, 2025. The event brought together global leaders, investors, and policymakers to discuss opportunities in business tourism. It aimed to promote Kenya as a destination and support trade and investment across Africa. Officials said the summit is part of Kenya’s plan to develop its MICE industry and contribute to regional economic growth.

Co-operative Bank of Kenya shares closed near a nine-year high at KSh 20.30 on September 8, 2025, driven by strong investor demand and consistent market performance. The bank’s market value is about KSh 119 billion, ranking it among the top six listed firms. Analysts highlight its solid financial results and reliable dividend record as key factors fueling optimism, making it one of the best-performing banking stocks on the Nairobi Securities Exchange this year.

On September 11, 2025, the United Bank for Africa (UBA) announced an investment of KSh 16 billion in Kenya’s roads levy securitization program. This funding aims to support the maintenance and development of the country’s road network. Officials made the announcement in Nairobi, stating the funds will improve transport infrastructure and boost revenue mobilization under the Kenya Roads Board’s management.

In September 2025, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) licensed 27 additional digital credit providers, increasing the total number of licensed providers to 153. This licensing is part of CBK’s ongoing supervision of the digital lending sector, initiated in 2022 to ensure compliance with consumer protection and financial stability regulations. Licensed providers must adhere to established standards on transparency, customer protection, and fair lending.

On September 9, 2025, Kenya and China signed a memorandum of understanding in Nairobi during the Kenya International Investment and Expo (KIIE). The agreement aims to strengthen industrial collaboration between the two countries. It focuses on promoting investment, technology transfer, and cooperation in manufacturing and related industries. Officials from both countries said the alliance will boost trade and industrial growth as part of ongoing bilateral economic relations.

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) announced it had prevented a tax fraud scheme involving irregular rice imports worth KSh 123 million. Officials stopped the shipment at the Port of Mombasa after detecting inconsistencies in the declared tax data. KRA confirmed investigations are ongoing. Those involved could face prosecution for attempting to evade paying the correct duties.

According to reports released on September 9, 2025, Kenya recorded strong growth in Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs). Their total assets reached KSh 1 trillion in 2024. Member deposits also increased, showing higher savings activity. However, the sector faces challenges from rising loan defaults. Additionally, more members are being listed with credit reference bureaus. Industry experts emphasize the need for stronger risk management as SACCOs expand their role in Kenya’s financial sector.

On September 8, 2025, the Kenya Tourism Board and Visa announced a partnership to boost travel spending in Kenya. The agreement will use Visa’s data to provide insights into traveler behavior and help the board develop targeted marketing strategies. The partnership aims to support the tourism industry by encouraging higher visitor spending and enhancing the overall travel experience in the country.