Tea auctioners in the country are staring at huge losses that could run into billions, in the wake of a major system failure at the Kenya Revenue Authority.

According to the traders, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) export payment systems (MSS levy) downtime, the failure of the Port Scanners and the perennial ICMS systems failure have resulted to container mapping challenges.

Speaking to the press in Mombasa, the Board of East African Tea Trade Association (EATTA) Chairman George Omuga stated that the halting of exports will have negative ripple effects at the Mombasa Tea Auction which may further depress tea prices that have recently showed improvements at the tea auction.

"A daily average of 100-150 containers of tea are exported through the Mombasa Port and the KRA system downtime has resulted to enormous losses incurred by the tea producers and exporters resulting to accumulation of unshipped teas." said Omuga.

Adding" This is happening at a time when the global shipping industry have been affected by the suez canal closure and the middle east logistics challenges."

According to Omuga, In the recent past tea exports have encountered myriad challenges from the various Partner Government Agencies (PGAs) that has heavily hindered export, increased the operational and export costs for tea exporters and negatively impacted the tea trade.

Omuga charged "Mombasa Tea Auction offers teas from 10 African tea producing countries and the export inefficiencies at the Port of Mombasa may compel the member countries exporting their teas through the Port of Mombasa to consider using alternative neighbouring Ports in the region.

The tea sector is the largest foreign exchange earner to the Country and contributes significantly to the socio-economic development in the country. In 2023 Kenya exported tea worth Kshs. 186 billion through the Port of Mombasa equivalent to 4% of the GDP.

The traders are now calling on the government to address the issue to avoid more damage and loses.

They stating that they have not been able to ship any container from last week Thursday, revealing that exporters have been incurring huge loses in terms of demmurage and logistic costs

"We risk being black listed as unreliable supplier."

Among the issues they want to be urgently resolved includes rescan of containers which they argue costly and leads to delays, rotation of officers especially Verification Officers (Vos) and Head Verification Officers (HVOs) is done abruptly with the people taking over roles not aware of what is expected of them. The officers are also very few, delays encountered at Kilindini exports office and the frequent downtimes of the ICMS system.

The fifth edition of Tusker Oktobafest concluded with an exhilarating finale, uniting beer enthusiasts across Kenya in a month-long celebration of Kenyan beer, music and culture.

This year’s festival expanded across multiple regions, from Western Kenya to the Coast, and included cities and towns such as Eldoret, Kisumu, Mombasa, Nanyuki, Juja, Karatina and Kitengela. Each event was carefully curated to reflect the character of the location’s community, featuring a dynamic lineup of local artists, MCs and DJs.

The final weekend wrapped up with events in Nairobi, Kiambu, Mombasa and Karatina, each offering a unique fusion of music and beer experiences. Headliners drew energetic crowds, captivating audiences and reinforcing Oktobafest’s spirit of celebration.

On Saturday, 2 November 2024, Tusker Oktobafest’s third weekend showcased the festival’s diversity, spreading across five locations with unique atmospheres.

The Orchid on Ngong Road was buzzing with MCs and DJs warming up the crowd for electrifying performances by Khaligraph Jones and Nviiri the Storyteller. Over at Bar XO in Runda, a lively set by Nadia Mukami and Fathermoh kept the energy high, with DJs and MCs adding flavour to the night. 

Mejja and Ndovu Kuu took Mombasa by storm at New Big Tree, while Ayrosh captivated the crowd at Derby Place & Lounge in Karatina.

“Tusker Oktobafest 2024 has been an amazing experience. We have enjoyed taking our flagship festival across the country and appreciate our consumers for turning up in great numbers and showing us how they do beer and culture. It has been a rewarding experience for the brand and we intend to reach more of our consumers across the country with our experiences just like we do with our products,” said Brigid Wambua, Senior Brand Manager, Tusker.

With over ten different beer experiences, including favourites like Tusker Lager, Tusker Lite and Tusker Cider, along with a special limited-edition Oktobafest brew and cocktails, festival goers explored fresh flavours and classic favourites.

Throughout the month, Tusker Oktobafest rewarded consumers with exclusive promotions, online flash sales and discounted experiences, making the festival accessible to all Kenyans and creating a sense of community.

Since its inception in 2019, Oktoberfest has evolved into a premier event that showcases Kenya’s rich brewing heritage and vibrant local talent, drawing passionate music lovers and beer connoisseurs from diverse backgrounds.

The Moi International Airport in Mombasa was on Tuesday Morning abuzz with excitement as the airport welcomed back TUI Fly to Mombasa.

The airline made its maiden flight to the port city of Mombasa after a 6-year hiatus, renewing the hopes of reviving the vibrancy of the airport to welcome international flights.

The charter plane landed in Mombasa carrying on board 70 Dutch tourists who are set to explore and enjoy the flora and fauna of the coast.

Speaking during the event to welcome the plane, Coast regional Airport manager Abel Gogo said that this will be a great addition to the airport and he hopes for more direct flights to Mombasa in the near future.

"This has been made possible through the efforts of both the national government and the county government of Mombasa together with stakeholders. We have a lot of potential as an airport, the county and the country,” said Gogo.

The airline is set to be operating twice a week from Amsterdam and is expected to bring more travel opportunities and enhancing connections between Kenya and Europe.

Mombasa County executive for tourism Osman Mohamed who was representing Governor Abdulswamad Nassir and the County Government of Mombasa lauded the return of the airline noting that the county has been very instrumental in pushing for the open skies policy in Mombasa.

“Mombasa has been on the frontline pushing for open skies to policy so that we can have more direct flights. The tourism season has just started and we hope and look forward to receive more visitors,” said Osman.

His sentiments were echoed by Patrick Kamanga, a member of the newly formed Mombasa Tourism Council (MTC) who alluded to a lot of planning and reaching out that has today culminated with the return of TUI Fly to Mombasa.

Kamanga also said that they were working round the clock with tourism stakeholders and the national government to realize the return of the Turkish Airline back to Mombasa soon.

"We want to have Mombasa rebounded back, hotels full and tour operators busy. We look forward to rebound Mombasa back to its glory,” said Kamanga.

Captain Robbert Gijsbertse representing TUI Fly said that the airline believes in Kenya with Mombasa as its arrival airport and as a growth destination for the Dutch market.

Kenya, he said, guarantees adventure and relaxation with magnificent game parks, beautiful beaches and excellent hotels.

"You combine the big five with the good life. This is a unique combination that has the opportunity to grow,” he said.

He added that now that they can be able to serve this destination with their 787 aircraft, it is a true milestone for the company.

"The first flight is an important step in the right direction. We are looking forward to a constructive cooperation which we can make of most of the potential in this new destination not only in terms of package holiday, but in terms of seat only and cargo.”

In a significant achievement for Kenyan Maritime training, Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) cadets Esther Wanjala, Chepkirui Chebole, and Nowel Watiiri participating in South Korea’s Global On-Board Training (GOBT) Program 2024 have concluded their training with remarkable results.

Among 13 participating countries, Kenya ranked 1st in Engineering and 3rd overall in the Deck department, showcasing the strength and dedication of Bandari Maritime Academy training and curriculum.

This achievement highlights Kenya’s strong presence in Maritime education, which has been strengthened by BMA’s commitment to fostering excellence in the Maritime and Blue Economy sectors.

The GOBT program provided Kenyan cadets with invaluable hands-on training, enhancing their professional competencies and setting them apart in international maritime standards.

In attendance to mark the occasion was Kenya’s Ambassador to South Korea,  Emmy Kipsoi, who met with the cadets, expressed her pride in their performance and commended the efforts of Bandari Maritime Academy and the Kenyan government in promoting Maritime education.

This success story underscores the strategic support provided by Principal Secretary (PS) State Department of Shipping and Maritime Affairs Geoffrey Kaituko who has been instrumental in advancing Maritime education and fostering international partnerships.

PS Kaituko guidance and dedication have enabled Kenyan cadets to thrive on the global stage, reinforcing the importance of Maritime skill development for national growth.

Bandari Maritime Academy CEO Dr. Eric Katana extended his congratulations to the cadets, emphasizing the Academy’s commitment to equipping future Maritime professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to excel globally.

BMA Deputy Director of Maritime Education and Training, Eng. Titus Kilonzi who also is the Coordinator for the GOBT 2024 between Kenyan Trainees and Korea Institute of Maritime and Fisheries Technology (KIMFT) said Bandari Maritime Academy’s participation in GOBT reflects the Academy's growing partnerships and dedication to producing world-class Maritime professionals.

The Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Utalii college aimed at promoting training on various courses.

This strategic partnership is set to unlock collaborative synergies and enhance the quality of training and education in the fields of Maritime, Blue Economy, and Hospitality.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Bandari Maritime Academy C.E.O Dr Eric Katana underscored the MOU's significance in advancing shared goals through multiple avenues of collaboration.

The MOU outlines comprehensive initiatives, including the joint use of specialized training facilities and equipment, the development of cutting-edge training curricula, and the reciprocal exchange of trainers, instructors, and students.

"By leveraging these shared resources, the partnership aims to elevate the standards of Maritime and Hospitality education in Kenya and beyond." reads a statement from BMA.

The MOU also emphasizes joint capacity-building programs for both staff and students and includes frameworks for collaborative research, professional workshops, seminars, and other key initiatives aimed at strengthening the management and operational expertise in hospitality and Maritime sectors.

On his part Kenya Utalii college principal Mr. Peter Muindi highlighted the MOU’s relevance in preparing students for the evolving job market.

"The collaboration will equip students with essential skills in Maritime and Blue Economy, thereby widening their career prospects within the Cruise Ship industry, Shipping companies, and related Blue Economy enterprises." said Muindi

Blue Radio and Khushi Motors have officially launched the Ride to Mombasa Experience, a unique event scheduled for December 27-29, 2024, designed to celebrate and promote the rich cultural heritage and tourism potential of Mombasa.

This three-day journey will not only highlight Mombasa’s beauty and historical sites but will also foster community involvement in environmental conservation and road safety.

The Ride to Mombasa Experience invites participants on a memorable tour through Mombasa, where they will engage in various coastal activities, including beach soccer, mangrove planting, beach clean-ups, and tree planting.

Riders will explore the historic Old Town of Mombasa, taste local street foods, and participate in creative photography and videography challenges, sharing their experiences with #ExperienceMombasa while tagging Khushi Motors, Blue Radio, and the County Government of Mombasa.

Participants can join for a fee of 3,000 KSH, which includes a branded T-shirt, a commemorative medal, and an exclusive event ticket.

This fee also supports a series of initiatives that promote environmental responsibility, including ocean conservation efforts and awareness campaigns on road safety throughout the event.

 “We believe that the Ride to Mombasa Experience will not only boost tourism but also engage communities in meaningful ways,” shared Gilbert Were, CEO of Blue Radio, and Waqas Ahmad, CEO of Khushi Motors, in a joint statement.

Adding “This event brings together people of all backgrounds to celebrate Mombasa’s beauty, culture, and commitment to sustainability.”

A new Coast Tourism circuit in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife has been launched.

The initiative intends to create a robust National,County governments and private sector strategy to increase the number of tourists.

It will involve rigorous marketing of available destinations both locally and internationally, besides creating more appealing packages.

During the launch CS Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano said the move will involve rigorous marketing and resources mobilisation by all stakeholders

"We want to be more organized,we are going to address issues and come up with a unified work plan,"said CS Miano.

She said the country had been hard hit by COVID 19 leading to low numbers of visitors.

The CS said the industry has since recovered and the ministry is targeting 2.5 m visitors in 2024.

The target is to reach 3 million by 2026 and 5 million by the year 2027.

"Tourism is the biggest earner of foreign currency,we want to train our youths to become goodwill ambassadors,their innovation and creativity will drive the industry growth,"said the CS.

The CS later paid a courtesy call to Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Shariff Nassir

CS Miano said the partnership with Mombasa was very crucial as the county was a top tourism destination.

"We look forward to having a robust interaction and have results through an increase in the number of tourists,"said Miano.

The Governor said the county intends to put up more development at Mama Ngina park and urged the national government to revert it to county management.

He said the new partnership will increase the number of tourists visiting Mombasa as a top destination.

He said the newly launched circuit will bring together teams from different counties to come up with a unified strategy.

Following two vibrant weekends of celebration, Tusker Oktobafest enters its third week, bringing thrilling beer and music festivities to five new locations, The Orchid (Ngong Road, Nairobi), New Sarvid Gardens (Kiambu Road), New Big Tree (Mombasa), Bar XO (Runda) and Derby Place & Lounge (Karatina).

The events, scheduled for Saturday 2 November 2024, aim to continue showcasing Kenya’s rich cultural diversity through music and beer, creating memorable moments for festival-goers across the country.

Event lineups:

1. The Orchid, Ngong Road – Gates open at 2pm

Khaligraph Jones, Nviiri the Storyteller, Gibbz Tha Daqchild, Pierra Makena, Sir M.

Hosted by Kwambox.

2. New Sarvid Gardens, Kiambu Road – Gates open at 4pm

Gasheni, Wanjine, Kamande wa Kioi, Timona Mburu, Dj Dibul, Dj Wal, Dj Rayaz.

Hosted by Karwimbo Mukurino.

3. New Big Tree, Mombasa – Gates open at 4pm

Mejja, Ndovu Kuu, Dj Tibbz, Dj Ronyule, DJ Issa Platnumz, Dj Most Wanted.

Hosted by: BM Shaxxy & MC Chapatizo.

4. Bar XO, Runda – Gates open at 2pm

Nadia Mukami, Fathermoh, DJ Gibbz Tha Daqchild, Dj Malaika, Dj Deewiz, Dj Kuuch.

Hosted by: Gudah Man.

5. Derby Place & Lounge – Gates open at 4pm

Ayrosh, Salim Young, DJ Smiles, DJ Sibour Martin, VDJ Sizzlaa.

Hosted by: Steve Kigonyi.

“Tusker Oktobafest continues to bring people together to celebrate our shared love for beer, music and culture. We look forward to delivering unforgettable moments and incredible performances across the different locations,” said Brigid Wambua, Senior Brand Manager, Tusker.

So far, Tusker Oktobafest 2024 has delivered six regional festivals across Nairobi, Eldoret, Kisumu, Nanyuki and Juja, with each location offering a distinct flavour and vibrant celebration of Kenyan beer, music and culture.

As part of celebrating the month of beer, KBL has been hosting a range of offers and experiences to reward beer consumers across the country. The promotions include discounts, online flash sales and exclusive experiences, all aimed at celebrating Kenya’s rich beer culture.

Apprehensions related to fiscal policy changes and social unrest, most notably the June 2024 Finance Bill protests, have contributed to a slight dip in Kenya’s overall trade attractiveness according to the latest Stanbic Bank Africa Trade Barometer (SB ATB).

In the report that evaluates 10 key AfCFTA signatory nations, which together account for 66% of Africa’s GDP, Kenya moved from 5th to 6th position compared to last year’s SB ATB report.

“While Kenya has faced some challenges in trade competitiveness, especially related to inflation and infrastructure, the thriving services sector demonstrates our capacity for growth. By addressing key barriers like access to finance and improving trade infrastructure, Kenya can regain its competitive edge and further boost its regional leadership,” said Paul Mungai, Head of Trade & Africa China Banking at Stanbic Bank Kenya.

Nonetheless, Kenya’s business confidence index scored a steady 55 points, mirroring last year’s score and summarising the mixed economic sentiments amongst businesses.

The stability of this score reflects a delicate balance between optimism fuelled by the successful Eurobond buyback, GDP growth, and subdued inflation, against a backdrop of pessimism due to the contentious tax proposals and resulting protests, which impacted trade and tourism.

The slight decline in Kenya's overall SB ATB ranking can be attributed to persistent inflationary pressures, recent tax reforms, and perceived drops in government support for cross-border trade.

Kenya’s government support index for trade experienced the sharpest decline, dropping from 57 to 45, with surveyed Kenyan businesses signalling a decrease in business sentiment towards government backing of cross-border trade. Larger businesses perceived government support more favourably than smaller enterprises, possibly due to their capacity to leverage available resources and navigate complex regulatory landscapes.

Despite initiatives to embrace trade agreements and policy reforms aimed at facilitating trade and reducing barriers, the need for tax relief and improved customs efficiency remains a key concern for businesses striving to engage effectively in cross-border trade.

Access to credit within the period of the survey proved to be another major challenge for Kenyan business the drop in the index from 49 to 45 signalled tighter credit conditions for Kenyan businesses. Rising interest rates have made borrowing more expensive, pushing many businesses to seek alternative financing options, such as supplier credit arrangements.

In tandem, there has been a noticeable shift towards digital payment systems, with mobile money increasingly being used for cross-border transactions, particularly among small businesses. Mobile money usage for trade has risen to 44%, while the reliance on cash for transactions has decreased by 17%, reflecting growing concerns over security and currency volatility.

Furthermore, infrastructure challenges persist, exacerbated by severe flooding in early 2024 that caused damage across 42 counties, valued at over USD 35 million (approximately Ksh 4.5 billion). The decline in the trade infrastructure index, which dropped from 53 to 48, highlights the urgency of improving Kenya’s transport and logistics systems to support more resilient trade operations. Businesses have voiced concerns about the state of roads, ports, and rail infrastructure, which were significantly impacted by the floods.

“Despite these challenges, Kenya’s cross-border trade continues to expand, buoyed by trade agreements with the European Union, China, and within the East African Community (EAC). Although the trade openness index saw a slight drop from 50 to 49, trade relations with Tanzania and Southern Africa are strengthening, providing new market opportunities for Kenyan exporters. The 2024 FOCAC Summit is also expected to enhance trade partnerships with China, offering a framework for increased cooperation,” said Mungai.

Now in its fourth edition, Standard Bank (trading in Kenya as Stanbic Bank) leveraged its presence and expertise across the continent to create the Stanbic Bank Africa Trade Barometer (SB ATB), which focuses on South Africa, Namibia, Mozambique, Tanzania, Nigeria, Kenya, Zambia, Ghana, Uganda, and Angola.

The report examines trade performance across several vital categories, such as trade openness, access to finance, macroeconomic stability, and infrastructure development.

In Kenya, 235 businesses were surveyed. 59% of these businesses were in Nairobi, 9% in Mombasa, 12% in Nakuru, 11% in Kisumu and 9% in Eldoret.