Author: Janet Memo

So, do MPs pay tax in Kenya? Brief History Before 2010, Kenyan MPs were exempted from paying taxes on a significant portion of their income, particularly allowances like sitting and housing, and benefits such as car grants. Instead, they taxed the MP’s basic pay which amounted to Ksh. 200,000. This tax exemption led to widespread public discontent as the citizens felt it undermined the principle of equal taxation. Thus, the push for reforms gained momentum in the late 2000s, fueled by public protests and advocacy from civil society organizations, religious groups, the media, etc. Legislative Changes and Taxation Reforms There…

Comedian David Oyando, known by his stage name Mulamwah, joined Generation Z protesters in Nairobi in a video circulating on social media platform X. The popular comedian brought a plastic container of mandazi, two flasks of tea, and disposable cups to share with the demonstrators. Mulamwah was seen participating in the protest chants before he began serving tea and mandazi to the crowd. Although the refreshments were not enough to feed all the protesters, those fortunate enough to receive them, appreciated the snack. The comedian encouraged the demonstrators to continue advocating for their rights without losing hope. The young activists…

In Kenyan campuses’ vibrant and dynamic environment, students increasingly recognize the potential of combining their academic pursuits and entrepreneurial initiatives. College students venturing into business enjoy financial independence, besides developing critical skills through practical experiences, and building networks for post-graduation success. Whether tapping into the digital marketplace, offering personalized services, or starting an e-commerce store, Campus presents an ideal platform to experiment, learn, and grow as an entrepreneur.   Ready to turn your free time into a profitable venture? Here are 10 business ideas for campus students in Kenya. 1. Photography Photography is a lucrative business requiring minimal startup costs…

In a press release dated 14th June and signed by the Director General, Daniel Kiptoo, the price of Super petrol, Diesel, and Kerosene decreased by Ksh.3.00, Ksh.6.08, and Ksh.5.71 per liter, respectively. According to EPRA, the prices above include the 16% Value Added Tax (VAT) in line with provisions of the Finance Act 2023 and Tax Laws (Amendment) Act 2020. The prices also reflect the revised rates for excise duty adjusted for inflation as per Legal Notice No. 194 of 2020. With the new prices in force by midnight, in Nairobi Super Petrol, Diesel, and Kerosene will retail at Ksh.189.84,…

Eid-Al-Adha, also known as the Feast of the Sacrifice, is one of the two major Islamic holidays. The other major holiday on the Muslim calendar is Eid-al-Fitr’ the Festival of Breaking the Fast. Muslims all over the world celebrate Eid-Al-Adha to commemorate the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ismail, an act of obedience to the commands given to him by Allah in a dream. The celebration of Eid-Al-Adha usually falls on the last day of the annual Hajj Pilgrimage to Mecca. Muslims mark this day with special prayers at dawn held in Mosques or Islamic Centers, exchange gifts,…

What is the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF)? The Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) is a new healthcare financing scheme in Kenya designed to provide universal healthcare coverage to all citizens and residents who have lived in the country for at least 12 months. The primary objective of SHIF is to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by pooling resources from various sources including individuals, the government, and donor funding. SHIF aims to offer comprehensive healthcare coverage, encompassing preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative services at level (4,5,6) hospitals. This broad approach ensures that all Kenyans access necessary healthcare services, regardless…

Traveling within Africa is notably more expensive than traveling to destinations outside the continent. According to an IATA report on the Focus Africa Media Briefing, intra-African travel costs 45% more than travel within Europe. This reality has baffled many travelers and hindered intra-African tourism and economic integration. Prominent figures like Larry Madowo (currently a CNN journalist) and Wode Maya (a famous YouTuber) have raised this issue and urged African leaders to find solutions. So, why is it so expensive to travel within Africa? 1. Limited Air Connectivity One of the primary reasons for the high cost of travel within Africa…

Musician Bahati and his wife Diana Marua launched the first Kenyan Reality Show on Netflix, The Bahati Empire, yesterday night. Deputy President H.E Rigathi Gachagua graced the glamorous event and applauded the powerful couple for their great strides. Renowned musician Kevin Kioko Bahati popularly known as Bahati, alongside his wife Diana Yesternight launched their new reality show, The Bahati Empire set to air on Netflix. The event took place at the prestigious Westwood Hotel, Westlands. Deputy President H.E Rigathi Gachagua graced the glamorous event underscoring the government’s commitment to supporting the creative economy. Gachagua, in his speech, emphasized the importance…

Starting a business is an exciting and rewarding venture, especially when you find an idea that aligns with your passions and strengths. Women have unique perspectives and skills that help them thrive in the business world. Whether you’re looking into a side hustle or a full-time endeavor, here are unique business ideas that will inspire and guide you on your entrepreneurial journey. 1. Event Planning Do you love organizing parties and events? Event planning is a lucrative business venture. From weddings to corporate events, you can offer planning services to relieve your clients’ stress. It entails finding the ideal venue…

With a vision of Africa dressing the world, Vivo offers a wide range of official or casual women’s clothing. They include dresses, tops, pants, jackets, and coats. Over the years and in line with its mission of creating economic opportunities in Africa through fashion, Vivo has expanded its outlets beyond Kenya by venturing into Rwandan and Ugandan markets. The company has employed over 360 employees of which 70% are women. Its notable brands are Vivo Woman, Zoya, and Safari. Recently, the company expanded its horizons beyond Africa by tapping into the American market with its latest outlet store in Atlanta…