Moody’s Ratings reported rising borrowing costs in Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa over the past five years. Weak economic policies, inflation, and shallow capital markets drove the increase. Funding from international partners, such as the IMF, eased some foreign debt pressures. Interest rates remain high, and in Kenya, government borrowing costs are around 5% above U.S. Treasury rates. Moody’s reported that heavy debt and limited markets are constraining credit, investment, and growth.

The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) reduced fuel pump prices in its September review, marking the second monthly cut. The regulator linked the adjustment to lower import costs, with petrol, diesel, and kerosene all dropping. Prices, which include 16% VAT, will apply until Oct 14 and vary marginally across Nairobi, Mombasa, Thika, Eldoret, and Kisumu.

Kenya’s 364-day Treasury bill received bids worth KSh 23.1 billion against an offer of KSh 10 billion, according to the Central Bank of Kenya. The bank accepted KSh 19.08 billion at a 9.6% yield. It was the second week of strong uptake. Demand rose after the Central Bank lowered interest rates, with investors moving into short-term government securities to secure current returns.

Standard Chartered Bank Kenya began verifying 629 former employees ahead of a KSh 7 billion pension payout. The process followed a Sept 5, 2025, Supreme Court ruling upholding a Retirement Benefits Appeals Tribunal decision. Verification started Sept 22 at Almary Green Business Park in Nairobi, clearing the way for arrears and interest dating back to 2000 and 2009. The bank said it was adequately capitalised to meet the obligations.

Kenya’s Treasury disbursed KSh 2.6 billion to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through the Kenya Development Corporation under the SAFER project. Announced Sept 13, 2025, the funds aimed to expand credit access and support recovery. The move was part of broader efforts to strengthen MSMEs, which account for most of Kenya’s businesses and jobs.

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) appointed Nancy Ngetich as Commissioner for Shared Services, confirming her after serving in an acting capacity since February 2023. KRA also named Doreen Mbingi acting head of the Large and Medium Taxpayers Department, replacing Rispah Simiyu, who was seconded to the Treasury. The appointments aim to ensure continuity and accountability in revenue collection.

Kenya Railways launched the Mombasa Commuter Rail Service on Sept 17, linking the SGR Terminus in Miritini to Mombasa CBD over 16.6 km, including 2.8 km of new track. The KSh 4.2 billion project added stations, track upgrades, and a 2.3 km bridge over the Makupa Causeway. The service was projected to carry 4,000 passengers daily, offering an alternative to road transport and cutting travel times in the coastal city.

Absa Bank Kenya appointed Senior Counsel Mohammed Nyaoga as Board Chairman, effective October 1, 2025. He succeeds Charles Muchene, who completed a nine-year term. Nyaoga, a corporate governance specialist with four decades of experience, has chaired the Central Bank of Kenya, Ecobank Kenya, and the IMF External Experts Panel. He also chairs the AfDB Disclosure and Access to Information Appeals Panel and holds the Elder of the Burning Spear (EBS) honor.

Uber launched Uber Safari in Nairobi, offering three-hour wildlife trips to Nairobi National Park via its app. Day safaris cost KSh 25,000 for up to seven passengers, while night trips are KSh 40,000 for five. Fares covered vehicle entry, driver fees, and a warden for night tours, with park entry charged separately. Uber said the service created new tourism options and income for local safari operators.