Author: Janet Memo

The e-commerce landscape in Kenya has seen remarkable growth, with more businesses looking for ways to expand their presence online. Entrepreneurs and business owners are exploring various platforms to help them tap into the booming digital marketplace. Among the e-commerce platforms, shopify consistently comes up as a top choice for setting up and managing an online store. But how suitable is this platform for Kenyan businesses? What tools and features does it offer to help businesses succeed in the local market, and how can Kenyan entrepreneurs leverage it for their ventures? Let’s find out! What is Shopify? Shopify is a…

In today’s digital age, starting an online shop in Kenya presents a lucrative and fulfilling venture for entrepreneurs looking to tap into the growing e-commerce market. Given the increasing internet penetration, a bulging young population, and a burgeoning middle class, Kenya offers a fertile ground for online business. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to start an online shop in Kenya, covering everything from market research to launching, marketing, and monitoring your store. Step 1: Conduct Market Research Before diving into the world of e-commerce, it’s essential to understand the market. Market research helps you identify: Step 2:…

Recent events in Kenya, particularly the passage of the Finance Bill 2024 by the legislative arm of Government despite public outcry sparked widespread protests led by the Gen Z demographic that saw invasion of Parliament by the Protestors. Following this, discussions are emerging on the possibility of the dissolution of parliament for failing to listen to the citizens they represent. This article explores the mechanisms, reasons, and implications of dissolving parliament in Kenya. Can the President Dissolve Parliament in Kenya? In Kenya, the President does not have unilateral power to dissolve Parliament. According to the Constitution of Kenya, the dissolution…

Taxation is a crucial element of the government’s strategy for revenue collection, which in turn funds public services and infrastructure development. The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and the legal framework governing taxation provide specific exemptions to certain groups and entities under defined circumstances. These exemptions intend to support vulnerable populations, encourage charitable activities, and promote investment in certain sectors. So, Who is Exempted from Paying Tax in Kenya? 1. Persons with Disabilities One of the most notable exemptions in Kenya’s tax framework is for persons with disabilities. Under the Persons with Disabilities Act, individuals certified by the National Council for…

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…