Latest news with #KSh
The South African
22-07-2025
- Politics
- The South African
Kenya dropped terror charges against activist Boniface Mwangi
Kenya dropped terrorism charges against activist Boniface Mwangi following widespread criticism on 21 July 2025. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) had arrested Mwangi at his Lukenya home on 19 July 2025. Authorities initially accused him of facilitating terrorist acts during the 25 June 2025 protests. Rights groups condemned the charges as politically motivated and legally unfounded. Furthermore, Mwangi denied all allegations, declaring publicly, 'I am not a terrorist'. Mwangi now faces two charges: possession of blank ammunition and noxious substances without authority. The charge sheet cites one round of 7.62 mm blank ammunition and three teargas canisters found at Mageuzi Hub, Nairobi. Police allegedly recovered these items during a search on 19 July 2025. Mwangi pleaded not guilty and was released on a bond of KSh 1 million (approximately R140 000 – R150 000). His lawyer, Njanja Maina, disputed the legitimacy of the evidence presented. A coalition of 37 rights organisations, including the Police Reforms Working Group (PRWG), criticised the government's use of anti-terrorism laws against protesters. They stated Mwangi's arrest reflects a broader crackdown on youth-led dissent. Former Chief Justice David Maraga accused the government of weaponising the judiciary to silence critics. In addition, Siaya Governor James Orengo called the charges 'ridiculous' and legally baseless. The Anti-Terrorism Police Unit's involvement in protest-related arrests has sparked legal and public concern. CONTEXT: PROTESTS AND POLICE VIOLENCE Mwangi's arrest followed deadly protests against President William Ruto on 25 June 2025. Demonstrators demanded accountability for police brutality and economic hardship. Over 100 deaths have been reported since protests began in 2024, according to rights groups. Mwangi has previously faced arrest in Kenya and Tanzania for activism. As a result, his case at the East African Court of Justice alleges torture by Tanzanian police in May 2025. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Business Insider
14-07-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
Kenyans abroad are sending more money than ever
Kenyans in diaspora continue to play an important part in sustaining the country's economy, with remittances reaching an all-time high of USD 5.08 billion (KSh 656.99 billion) in the year leading up to June 2025. Remittances in June 2025 alone increased by 13.8% compared to June 2024. The Kenyan Central Bank noted remittance growth as a key contributor to foreign exchange earnings. August 2024 saw a significant rise in remittances, showing optimistic perspectives from the diaspora. This is a significant increase in diaspora contributions, confirming Kenya's ranking among the top ten African countries with the greatest remittance inflows. Remittances in June 2025 alone totaled USD 423 million (KSh 54.68 billion), up 13.8% from USD 372 million (KSh 48.06 billion) in June 2024, according to figures from the Central Bank of Kenya. The country's central bank further reported that 12-month total inflows to June 2025 climbed by 12.1% to USD 5.08 billion (KSh 656.99 billion) from USD 4.54 billion (KSh 586.09 billion) in the same period in 2024, as reported by Tuko. "The steady growth in remittance inflows remains a key source of foreign exchange earnings and continues to support the balance of payments," the bank stated. The upward trajectory has persisted, with a notable increase also observed in August 2024. That month, Kenyans living overseas remitted home USD 427.2 million (KSh 55.01 billion), up USD 72.9 million (KSh 9.4 billion) from August 2023. Inflows increased to USD 4.645 billion (KSh 593 billion) for the 12 months ending August 2024 from USD 4.120 billion (KSh 529 billion) during the same period in 2023. The 12.7% increase from the previous year underscores the growing optimism among Kenyans living outside about the economic future of their country. Significance of Kenya's diaspora remittance The unwavering bond between the diaspora and their families in their homeland is powerfully underscored by the consistent and escalating flow of remittances. These financial transfers are not merely private exchanges; they serve as a cornerstone for national development, injecting crucial capital into local economies, stimulating growth, and fostering entrepreneurial ventures. Furthermore, remittances play an indispensable role in bolstering a nation's foreign exchange reserves, providing a vital buffer against external economic shocks and supporting a stable currency. Currently, Kenya ranks high among African countries with the highest diaspora remittances. As Kenya navigates a complex landscape of economic possibilities and formidable challenges, the financial contributions from its diaspora remain an absolutely critical source of resilience. This ongoing support provides a safety net for countless families, enabling access to education, healthcare, and improved living conditions, thereby mitigating poverty and fostering social stability.
Time Business News
10-07-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
How SMS Marketing Can Boost Real Estate Sales in Kenya
Are you looking to sell property faster in Kenya? Discover how Bulk SMS Kenya can revolutionize your real estate sales by connecting directly with serious buyers faster, cheaper, and more effectively than ever before. Key Takeaways ✅Bulk SMS is one of the most cost-effective marketing tools for real estate agents and property developers in Kenya. ✅It offers real-time engagement, high open rates (98 %+ within minutes), and targeted messaging—perfect for showcasing listings. ✅When used correctly, Bulk SMS Kenya can increase lead generation by over 300%, particularly in urban centers such as Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu. ✅SMS marketing helps you stay top-of-mind with potential buyers, reduce listing turnaround time, and boost closing rates. Understanding Bulk SMS Marketing in KenyaWhat is Bulk SMS and How Does It Work? Bulk SMS is a marketing tool that enables businesses to send large volumes of text messages to thousands of recipients simultaneously. It's a powerful, direct channel for reaching customers in seconds, especially in markets like Kenya, where mobile phone penetration exceeds 90%. When you use aBulk SMS Kenya platform, you simply upload a list of phone numbers, craft a message (usually limited to 160 characters), and hit send. These platforms are integrated with mobile networks to ensure fast delivery. What's more, many offer features like scheduling, personalization (e.g., 'Hi John, check out this house!'), delivery reports, and contact segmentation. So, how does it work for real estate? Imagine you have a new listing in Kilimani. Instead of waiting for a buyer to stumble upon your ad online, you can send a message to 5,000 potential buyers in that area saying: '🏠 Hot Deal! 3BR Apartment in Kilimani, only KSh 12 M. Call 0712345678 to view. ' Just like that, you're in the buyer's inbox—instantly. Whether you're a small real estate agency or a big developer, Bulk SMS in Kenya offers scalability and reliability. You can reach hundreds or thousands of contacts in just seconds, and most importantly, people actually read SMS. It's not buried under spam filters or lost in social media noise. And the best part? You don't need a huge marketing team or budget. Just a message, a list, and a good Bulk SMS provider in Kenya. H3: Key Features of Bulk SMS Platforms in Kenya Kenya's SMS marketing platforms have evolved quickly over the last decade. Today, you'll find providers offering robust dashboards that allow real estate marketers to do far more than just 'blast' messages. Here are some of the key features: Personalization : Customize messages with names or property types. Instead of 'Dear Client,' you can say 'Hi James, check out this new home in Syokimau.' : Customize messages with names or property types. Instead of 'Dear Client,' you can say 'Hi James, check out this new home in Syokimau.' Scheduling : Want your SMS to go out at 9 AM tomorrow? No problem. Most platforms support automated scheduling. : Want your SMS to go out at 9 AM tomorrow? No problem. Most platforms support automated scheduling. Delivery Reports : Track which messages were delivered, failed, or pending. This ensures your campaigns are working and helps optimize future sends. : Track which messages were delivered, failed, or pending. This ensures your campaigns are working and helps optimize future sends. Short Codes and Sender IDs : Use recognizable sender names like 'VillaHomes' instead of random numbers. This builds trust. : Use recognizable sender names like 'VillaHomes' instead of random numbers. This builds trust. APIs and Integration : Many platforms offer APIs that let you connect your CRM or website, so messages are sent automatically when leads are generated. : Many platforms offer APIs that let you connect your CRM or website, so messages are sent automatically when leads are generated. Opt-Out Management: Compliant platforms allow recipients to unsubscribe, which helps you stay ethical and legal. Popular Bulk SMS providers in Kenya include Celcom Africa, Africa's Talking, Safaricom Messaging, and SMSLeopard. Choosing the right one depends on your needs, volume, and desired features. Remember, the right tool can make or break your campaign. So always test the features and see which one best fits your real estate workflow. Why Bulk SMS is Gaining Popularity in the Kenyan Real Estate Market Why are so many real estate agents in Kenya shifting from traditional advertising to SMS marketing? Simple: it works. In a fast-paced housing market, timing is everything. By the time a buyer sees a Facebook ad or a billboard, the best deals are gone. But with Bulk SMS, you're instantly in front of your client's eyes—literally. Studies show that SMS open rates are over 98%, and most texts are read within 3 minutes of receipt. It's not just about speed, though. SMS is cost-effective, scalable, and offers direct engagement. No algorithm blocks you. No fees for 'boosted' posts. No printing or courier costs. Just your message, delivered instantly. Moreover, Kenya's real estate buyers span every age group and income level. Whether you're targeting middle-class professionals looking for townhouses in Kiambu or investors seeking plots in Machakos, everyone has a phone—and most prefer texting over calling or emailing. Agents are also seeing higher conversion rates from SMS leads. When someone replies to your SMS, they're likely already interested. That makes them more qualified than leads who just click on ads passively. With growing smartphone usage, SMS can even include clickable links that lead to property videos, virtual tours, or WhatsApp chats. This multichannel synergy makes SMS even more powerful. It's no wonder then that Bulk SMS in Kenya's property market is no longer just an option—it's becoming a must-have for agents who want to close deals faster and stay ahead of the competition. The Real Estate Market in Kenya: Current Trends and Challenges Urban Growth and Rising Property Demand Kenya's urban population is growing at lightning speed. Nairobi, Mombasa, Nakuru, and Kisumu are expanding rapidly, both horizontally and vertically. With that growth comes increased demand for housing, commercial spaces, and investment property. But while demand soars, so does competition among developers and agents. That means standing out is harder than ever. The Kenyan middle class is also growing. More people now have access to credit, Sacco loans, and mobile banking, making home ownership or property investment more achievable. This is creating a surge in first-time home buyers across satellite towns like Rongai, Syokimau, and Thika. Yet, these same buyers are cautious and picky. They spend weeks comparing listings, checking prices, and reading reviews online. This is where real-time engagement through Bulk SMS gives agents the edge. Instead of waiting for clients to find you, you go to them with the right message, at the right time. With urbanization not slowing down, and more infrastructure projects like roads, expressways, and new developments popping up, there's a goldmine of opportunity if you know how to reach your prospects quickly. Challenges Faced by Real Estate Sellers Despite the booming demand, selling property in Kenya is not a walk in the park. Agents and developers face major hurdles: High competition : Multiple listings for similar properties flood the market, making it hard to stand out. : Multiple listings for similar properties flood the market, making it hard to stand out. Budget constraints : Many smaller agents or startups don't have big advertising budgets. : Many smaller agents or startups don't have big advertising budgets. Delayed lead follow-ups : Leads often go cold because they're not engaged fast enough. : Leads often go cold because they're not engaged fast enough. Trust issues : Scams and dishonest agents have made buyers more cautious. : Scams and dishonest agents have made buyers more cautious. Slow conversions: Interested leads might take months to make a decision, if they don't disappear first. This is why adopting SMS marketing in real estate is a game-changer. It's quick, personal, and helps build trust. A simple 'Hello, we have a great deal for you' text can open the door to meaningful conversations that close sales. Need for Cost-Effective, Scalable Marketing Solutions Let's face it—real estate marketing in Kenya can get expensive. Billboards, flyers, newspaper ads, even Google or Facebook Ads, can quickly eat into your margins. And the worst part? You're never guaranteed results. That's why more and more sellers are turning to Bulk SMS in Kenya for its unbeatable cost-to-result ratio. For less than KSh 1 per message, you can reach hundreds or thousands of potential buyers. Compare that to a newspaper ad that costs KSh 30,000+ for one-day visibility, and you see why SMS is the smarter play. And it's scalable. Whether you're listing a single apartment or launching a new estate with 300 units, you can customize your SMS campaigns to match your goals and budget. Need to follow up on a warm lead? Send a quick text reminder. Want to invite buyers to an open house? Schedule an SMS blast. Trying to move unsold inventory fast? Run a limited-time offer through SMS. The real power of Bulk SMS lies in its flexibility—it works for small agents, large developers, and everyone in between. Why SMS Marketing Works for Real Estate Instant Communication and 98% Open Rate When it comes to grabbing attention, timing is everything. This is where Bulk SMS shines the brightest in real estate. The average email open rate sits around 20%, while SMS boasts a staggering 98% open rate, with 90% of texts opened within the first 3 minutes. That's not just fast—it's lightning-fast. In Kenya, where people are constantly on their phones—checking M-Pesa, social media, or chatting on WhatsApp—your text message becomes part of that daily habit. It lands directly in their inbox, no filters, no spam folder, no distractions. That means your property listing or open house alert gets immediate visibility. Imagine sending out a message like: '🏡 Own a 2BR Apartment in Ruaka for KSh 5.9 M. Call 0712***** for a tour this weekend. Limited units!' Within minutes, your phone starts ringing. No waiting for SEO rankings. No algorithm hurdles. Just instant, direct communication. Speed isn't the only advantage. SMS also allows for real-time engagement. If your property is in high demand, a quick message to your leads can create urgency: 'Last 2 units left!' or 'Price drop alert – save KSh 500K today!' In a competitive real estate market like Kenya's, where deals come and go quickly, being the first agent to reach a prospect can be the difference between closing a deal or losing it. And Bulk SMS Kenya helps you do just that fast, simple, and direct. Targeted Messaging for Specific Buyer Segments Not every buyer is the same. Some are looking for starter homes under KSh 5 million, others want luxury townhouses in Karen or beach villas in Diani. The beauty of Bulk SMS lies in its ability to segment and target these buyer groups with precision messaging. With the right Bulk SMS tool, you can group your contacts by location, budget, property interest, or even behavior (e.g., people who clicked your link or attended an open house). Then, you craft messages that speak directly to what they want. Let's break it down with examples: Budget-sensitive buyers : 'Affordable 1BR Bedsitter in Rongai – KSh 1.8 M. Ideal for first-time homeowners. Call now!' : Luxury buyers : 'Live in Style – 5BR Mansion in Runda, KSh 45 M. Private viewing available. Book now!' : Investors: 'Plot Alert: 50×100 in Juja @ KSh 750 K. High ROI zone. Limited availability. Reply YES for details.' This kind of personalized messaging increases conversion rates dramatically. People are more likely to respond to messages that are relevant to their needs rather than generic blasts. In fact, agents using Bulk SMS in Kenya with proper segmentation have reported up to 300% better response rates compared to untargeted messages. It's all about the right message, the right person, right time—and Bulk SMS gives you the tools to make that happen. SMS as a Lead Nurturing Tool In real estate, not every lead converts immediately. Some prospects are just browsing, while others may be planning to buy in a few months. That's why nurturing leads over time is critical, and SMS is one of the best tools for doing just that. Think of SMS as your digital handshake. It helps you stay in touch, build trust, and gently guide leads down the sales funnel. Here's how: Initial Engagement: After a prospect shows interest (e.g., via your website or an open house), send a welcome SMS: 'Thanks for your interest! We'll keep you updated with the latest deals.' Follow-Ups: Use SMS to check in after a few days: 'Hi James, we still have that 2BR in Syokimau. Would you like to schedule a visit?' Educational Drip Campaigns: Send valuable tips like: '3 things to check before buying a plot in Kenya. Click here to read.' Exclusive Offers: 'This week only – get 5% off cash purchases in Juja. Call 0712****** now!' Closing Reminders: 'Your dream home is still available! Call now before it's gone.' All these messages create a consistent, trust-building conversation. And unlike email, where open rates dwindle, SMS keeps your brand front and center on their most personal device—their phone. The best part? It's automated. Most Bulk SMS Kenya platforms allow you to set up drip sequences that send messages based on user behavior or time intervals. That means you're nurturing leads even while you sleep. How Real Estate Agents in Kenya Are Using Bulk SMSCase Studies from Nairobi and Mombasa Let's get practical. How are real estate pros in Kenya actually using SMS? Here are two case studies that show how Bulk SMS Kenya delivers real-world results: 🏙️ Nairobi: Selling Apartments in Kilimani A small agency was struggling to sell 12 units in a new apartment complex. After spending over KSh 100,000 on Facebook and newspaper ads with little to show, they tried SMS. They crafted a message like: 'Modern 2BRs in Kilimani @ KSh 7.5 M. Open viewing this Saturday! Free parking & gym. Call 0722******.' Sent to 5,000 contacts in Nairobi, they got 187 callbacks, 51 site visits, and sold 6 units in 2 weeks. Cost of campaign: KSh 4,000. 🌊 Mombasa: Promoting Beach Plots A coastal developer had beachfront plots in Vipingo. Instead of waiting for tourists or using billboard ads, they launched an SMS campaign targeting investors in Nairobi and Kisumu. Message: '🌴 Beach Plots in Vipingo @ KSh 950K! High ROI area with a ready title. . Call 0790****** today.' Result? They received 90+ inquiries, closed 9 sales, and reduced unsold inventory by 40%—all from a KSh 6,000 SMS budget. Types of SMS Campaigns That Work Not all SMS campaigns are created equal. The best-performing ones have a clear goal, a strong CTA (call-to-action), and deliver value fast. Here are the types of SMS real estate agents in Kenya are using effectively: New Listing Alerts: Promote fresh properties the moment they hit the market. 'New! 3BR Maisonette in Komarock @ KSh 6.2 M. Call for a tour!' Limited-Time Offers: Use urgency to boost interest. 'Flash Sale: 5% off plots in Kamulu this week only. Call now!' Open House Invites: Drive physical visits. 'Open House this Sat, 10 AM-4 PM in Kileleshwa. RSVP 0722******.' Price Drop Alerts: Let hot leads know about changes. 'Price slashed! Thika 4BR now @ KSh 9.8 M. Limited time offer.' Post-Sale Engagement: Build relationships with buyers. 'Congrats on your new home! Need moving tips or mortgage help? We're here.' Each campaign type serves a different purpose, but when done right, they all drive engagement and conversions. How Agents Segment Their Audiences Segmentation is the secret sauce behind high-performing SMS campaigns. Kenyan real estate agents who understand their audience are far more likely to get responses and deals. Here are smart ways agents segment their leads: Location : Nairobi-based leads get different listings than those in Eldoret. : Nairobi-based leads get different listings than those in Eldoret. Budget : Someone looking for KSh 2M properties doesn't want to see KSh 15M mansions. : Someone looking for KSh 2M properties doesn't want to see KSh 15M mansions. Interest Level : Cold leads get informative content, hot leads get direct calls to action. : Cold leads get informative content, hot leads get direct calls to action. Previous Interactions: Repeat clickers get priority offers. Using tools offered by platforms like Africa's Talking or SMSLeopard, agents can create custom contact groups, assign tags, and schedule messages accordingly. The result? Higher engagement, fewer unsubscribes, and most importantly, more closed deals. Crafting High-Converting SMS Campaigns for Property Sales in KenyaElements of a Great Real Estate SMS Creating a successful SMS campaign starts with understanding the anatomy of a great text message. Every single word matters when you're working with only 160 characters. You have to grab attention, deliver value, and inspire action—all in one tiny package. Here are the essential elements of a high-converting real estate SMS: Attention-Grabbing Hook: The first few words must stop the reader mid-scroll. Emojis can help here. For example: '🏠 Hot Deal in Ruiru!' '🚨Price Slash Alert!' Clear Property Offer: Be specific. Mention the property type, location, and key selling point. '3BR Apartment in Utawala @ KSh 5.8M – Modern finishes, ample parking.' Sense of Urgency or Scarcity: Push them to act now. 'Only 2 units left!' or 'Offer valid this weekend only!' Call-to-Action (CTA): Tell them exactly what to do. 'Call 0712******' or 'Reply YES for photos.' Personalization (If Possible): If your platform supports it, use first names or location preferences. Short URL or WhatsApp Link: Direct users to more info, virtual tours, or chat. 'View pics: or 'Chat on WhatsApp: An example of a high-converting SMS would be: '🏡 Exclusive Deal! 3BR in Syokimau @ KSh 6.3M. Ready title, gated estate. 2 Units left! Call 0722****** or view: When done right, this format grabs attention, delivers details, and sparks engagement, leading to more calls, visits, and sales. Writing Compelling SMS Copy SMS copywriting is a unique skill; it's part marketing, part psychology, and part sales pitch. You're not just informing; you're persuading. The trick is to use conversational, concise, and emotionally engaging language. Here are the top tips for writing killer SMS content that works for the Kenyan real estate market: ✅ Use Local Lingo & Tone Speak like your audience. Phrases like 'ready title,' 'prime location,' or '5 mins from Thika Road' resonate more than generic language. ✅ Focus on Benefits, Not Just Features Don't just list specs—tell people why it matters. Instead of: '3BR, 2 bath, 1 parking' Say: 'Spacious 3BR near CBD – perfect for families. Safe, serene & close to schools.' ✅ Use Power Words Words like 'exclusive,' 'limited,' 'free,' 'easy,' and 'urgent' trigger action. ✅ Avoid Spammy Language Too many ALL CAPS, repeated emojis, or fake urgency (e.g., 'You've won a house!' ) can lead to mistrust—or worse, blocks. ✅ Keep It Human Don't sound robotic. Use a warm, friendly tone: 'Hi Esther, we have a perfect home in Ngong that fits your budget. Call us today?' ✅ Test Variations A/B test different messages to see what works best. You might find that messages with a price perform better than ones with photos, or vice versa. Writing SMS copy isn't just about filling space—it's about creating emotional impact with every word. And when you master that, your campaigns will start generating results you never thought possible. Timing and Frequency of SMS Campaigns Timing can make or break your SMS marketing efforts. Even the best-written message will flop if it arrives at the wrong time. Here's what real estate pros in Kenya should know: ⏰ Best Times to Send Morning (8 AM – 10 AM) : Great for professionals before their day gets busy. : Great for professionals before their day gets busy. Lunch Hours (12 PM – 2 PM) : People are usually checking their phones during breaks. : People are usually checking their phones during breaks. Early Evening (5 PM – 7 PM): Perfect when people are commuting or unwinding. Avoid late-night sends—they feel intrusive. And don't send during holidays unless it's a special promo. 📅 Best Days Midweek (Tuesday to Thursday) : These days see the highest response rates. : These days see the highest response rates. Weekends: Ideal for open house invites or time-sensitive deals. 🔁 Frequency Tips 1–2 messages per week is the sweet spot. Enough to stay top-of-mind, not enough to annoy. is the sweet spot. Enough to stay top-of-mind, not enough to annoy. Always give a clear opt-out option like: 'Reply STOP to unsubscribe.' It builds trust and keeps your database healthy. Also, consider timing based on the property cycle: New listing → Immediate alert Open house → 2–3 days before the event Price drop → Instant blast Limited offer → 48-hour countdown reminder The key is consistency and respect. When your audience expects helpful messages, not spam, you'll get better open rates, replies, and ultimately, more closings. Conclusion: Time to Level Up Your Real Estate Sales with Bulk SMS in Kenya If you're in the Kenyan real estate space and you're not yet using Bulk SMS, you're leaving money on the table. Period. Bulk SMS Kenya isn't just a marketing tool—it's a sales engine. It helps you cut through the noise, connect with real buyers in seconds, and drive faster, more cost-effective property sales. From showcasing listings, promoting open houses, sending alerts, and following up with leads, to building long-term client relationships, SMS lets you do it all. And better yet, it does it at a fraction of the cost of traditional or even digital ads. So if you're ready to close more deals, save more time, and make smarter marketing moves, start integrating Bulk SMS into your real estate strategy today. The homes are ready. The buyers are waiting. And your next big sale could be just one SMS away. FAQs (People Also Ask)1. How much does Bulk SMS cost in Kenya? Bulk SMS in Kenya typically costs between KSh 0.250 to KSh 1.50 per message, depending on the provider, volume, and whether you use a custom sender ID. Some platforms offer discounts for high-volume users. Celcom Africa offers the cheapest and most affordable messaging solutions in Kenya at KSh 0.25 to KSh 0.60 per message 2. Is Bulk SMS effective for selling property? Absolutely. Real estate agents using Bulk SMS report higher response and conversion rates compared to social media or email, especially for local property marketing. SMS messages are read within minutes, driving faster decisions. 3. What's the best time to send real estate SMS in Kenya? The best times are morning (8–10 AM), lunchtime (12–2 PM), and early evening (5–7 PM). Avoid weekends unless promoting events. Midweek days like Tuesday–Thursday have the best engagement. 4. Can I use Bulk SMS for land sales in rural areas? Yes. In fact, land buyers in regions like Kajiado, Kitengela, and Machakos are often reached faster via SMS. Most rural prospects rely heavily on SMS over email, making it ideal for targeting investors or first-time buyers. 5. Which Bulk SMS platforms are best for real estate in Kenya? Top platforms include Celcom Africa ,Africa's Talking, SMSLeopard, BulkSMS254, and Safaricom Messaging. Look for features like scheduling, segmentation, sender ID customization, and delivery reports. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Business Insider
25-06-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
Businesses in Kenya hold their breath as the country plans to recall a painful memory
Businesses in Nairobi have shut down, fearing vandalism. This decision is coming in the wake of plans to commemorate the Kenyan anti-bill protest of 2024, which recorded dozens of casualties. The 25th of June marks the first day of the protest's anniversary. Businesses in Nairobi have temporarily closed due to potential vandalism during the protest anniversary. The protest commemorates the anti-bill demonstrations of June 2024, which saw widespread youth participation. These demonstrations were against the Finance Bill 2024, which proposed higher taxes on essential goods and services. Currently, young Kenyans have taken to the streets to keep alive the memory of a protest that shook the country to its core. As a result, businesses in Nairobi, the country's capital, have opted to play it safe and close for the day, fearing any potential damage. This is despite the fact that the police seemed to have increased security in the business district of the commercial hub. Tuko reports that although the protest has been presented as a peaceful demonstration and a call to stop police violence by its organizers, business owners have shown concern and opted to shut down momentarily, till things cool off. Damages to businesses in Kenya during the anti-bill protest Kenyans went to the streets in 2024 to protest a contentious finance bill, resulting in one of the country's largest youth-led rallies in recent memory. This demonstration, while well-intended, led to the destruction of some local businesses. Simon, a business owner in Nairobi, was among the hardest hit, having seen years of hard work go up in smoke. Simon operated a bookshop in the central business area, and noted that he had lost books valued at over KSh1 million. After the smoke had cleared, the Nairobi Youth Business Community revealed that losses of up to KSh 3 billion were incurred due to looting and vandalism. This report was contrary to what the president of the country, William Ruto, had issued, when he disclosed during a round table session that the protest had cost businesses up to KSh 2.4 billion in damages. Kenya's protest of 2024 In June 2024, the Kenyan government introduced the Finance Bill 2024, which, among other things, proposed higher taxes on essentials, like bread, fuel, financial services, and even internet data, to help finance public debt. Young Kenyans, especially Gen Z, quickly took to social media platforms such as TikTok, X, WhatsApp, and Instagram using hashtags like #RejectFinanceBill2024, #OccupyParliament, and #RutoMustGo to organize nationwide demonstrations. Online mobilization escalated to street demonstrations, and mid-way into June, thousands of Kenyans took to the streets to air their greviances. A couple of days after the protests began security forces opened fire, killing at least one protester, and igniting what was later dubbed the 'Seven Days of Rage' Later on thousands stormed the Parliament building in Nairobi, ransacked it, set parts on fire, and stole the ceremonial mace. Police responded with live ammunition, killing between 19 to over 60 people, and injuring hundreds more. Over 130 protestors were arrested.
Business Insider
14-06-2025
- Health
- Business Insider
HIV, TB, malaria treatment in Kenya threatened by KSh 11.4B funding reduction
Kenya's Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi presented the estimates in Parliament on Thursday, showing a drop in HIV, TB, and malaria funding from KSh 28.7 billion in the current financial year to KSh 17.3 billion. This comes after the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the U.S. President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) withdrew their financial support earlier this year, leaving Kenya's health sector exposed to severe funding gaps. In March, the Ministry of Health indicated that KSh 13.54 billion was urgently needed to sustain HIV, TB, and malaria programs for the remainder of the year. This included KSh 7.68 billion for the procurement of essential medical commodities and KSh 5.8 billion to maintain the employment of 11,059 frontline healthcare workers. Within the new allocation, the Treasury has included contributions to the Global Fund for HIV, TB, and malaria, alongside KSh 4.6 billion for vaccines and immunization and KSh 500 million for family planning and reproductive health commodities. Concerns rise amid USAID exit However, it remains unclear whether these allocations will be sufficient to cover the funding vacuum created by the exit of USAID and PEPFAR. For years, these donor programs have played a crucial role in supporting Kenya's efforts against HIV and other communicable diseases. Their withdrawal marks a significant setback for ongoing public health interventions. Geopolitical economist Aly-Khan Satchu described the situation as a major stress test for Kenya's health infrastructure. ' To some degree, there is no HIV or vaccine program without PEPFAR,' he said. ' They are going to have to achieve this now in a shock therapy type moment.' The announcement has raised alarm among health stakeholders, who have previously appealed to the government to act swiftly in addressing the budget gap. As the new fiscal plan awaits legislative scrutiny, questions are being raised about how Kenya intends to meet its public health commitments without the financial backing it has relied on for years.
