Kenya’s largest telco, Safaricom Plc, in partnership with the Nairobi Securities Exchange, launched Ziidi Trader, a new feature on the M-PESA app that lets Kenyans buy and sell NSE-listed shares straight from their phones.
With this move, Safaricom is taking financial inclusion to the next level, making investing simple, secure, and accessible for millions.
On the economic front, the Central Bank of Kenya’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) met this week and cut the Central Bank Rate (CBR) by 25 basis points to 8.75%, marking the 10th consecutive cut in the current easing cycle. The move comes as inflation remains low and stable at 4.4% (January 2026), while private sector credit growth continues to improve, aiming to boost lending, investment, and broader economic activity.
It was also an eventful week for leadership in Africa’s corporate scene. Sitoyo Lopokoiyit, the MD of M-PESA Africa, has been appointed as Chief Executive for Personal and Private Banking at Absa Group, effective April 2026. He leaves Safaricom after nearly 15 years, during which he played a key role in transforming M-PESA into one of Africa’s leading fintech platforms.
New Appointments in the Financial Sector
Meanwhile, the banking sector also saw a major leadership change. Rebecca Mbithi, former MD & CEO of Family Bank, has been appointed as the new Managing Director of Ecobank Kenya Limited. A lawyer, certified accountant, and holder of an MBA in Strategic Management, Rebecca brings deep expertise in governance, finance, and strategy, marking a strong return to the executive stage after stepping down from Family Bank in 2023.
Additionally, Former KCB Boss, Dr. Martin Oduor-Otieno, PCC, has been appointed as an Independent Non-Executive Director at Sanlam Allianz Holdings Kenya PLC. Dr. Otieno is the Founder and CEO of The Leadership Group Limited, serves as Group Chairman of East African Breweries Ltd, sits on the boards of BAT Kenya and the AfricaNenda Foundation, and is Chancellor of KCA University, bringing a wealth of experience in governance and strategy.
The Capital Markets Authority (CMA) has granted regulatory approvals for new fund managers and collective investment schemes. Notable entrants include Mema Asset Management, CPF Asset Managers, and Dyer & Blair Investment Bank, who will now offer a mix of unit trusts, sub-funds, and multi-asset investment products. The move expands the range of professionally managed investment options available to Kenyans, giving retail and institutional investors greater access to diversified portfolios and specialist funds under the regulator’s oversight.
This week, KenGen released its half-year results for the period ending 31st December 2025, showing strong growth. The company posted a Profit After Tax of Ksh 4.2 billion, supported by stable revenue and disciplined cost management. Total assets stood at Ksh 505.3 billion, while shareholders’ funds reached Ksh 282.8 billion.
In corporate moves, CIC Insurance Group Plc successfully closed the sale of a 50-acre block near Tatu City and 100 acres in Kajiado, injecting Ksh 1.8 billion into the group’s balance sheet. According to CEO Patrick Nyaga, the transactions strengthen liquidity and improve overall performance, reflecting the group’s ongoing focus on optimizing its investment portfolio in land and real estate.
To wrap up, don’t miss the 75th Abojani Personal Finance, Saving & Investing Masterclass, where we dive deep into practical strategies for growing your wealth, building smart budgets, and making investing simple and effective.
Early bird registration is now open, secure your spot before the end of the month to enjoy exclusive benefits and ensure your place in this transformative learning experience.
#Ziidi Trader
CEO & Co-Founder, Abojani Investment
Robert Ochieng is a visionary entrepreneur and the co-founder of Abojani Investment, a leading financial education platform in Kenya that has empowered over 20,000 Africans to embark on their investment journeys. As CEO, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to financial literacy, successfully demystifying money and investments and making them accessible and relevant to individuals from all walks of life.
Running Thriving Investment Communities
Robert’s influence extends well beyond Abojani Investment’s core offerings. He has actively fostered a sense of community by running investment forums and groups with a vast following of over 300,000 Africans. These communities provide a safe space for individuals to exchange ideas, share experiences, and support each other on their investment journeys.
Vision for the Future
As co-founder of Abojani Investment, Robert envisions a financially empowered Africa. He strives to expand the reach of his financial education initiatives, enabling millions more to gain the knowledge and confidence needed to achieve their financial goals. His vision is to create a society where every individual has the tools and understanding to build lasting wealth and prosperity.
Professional Background
Robert Ochieng is a highly accomplished CEO at the helm of Abojani Investment, an investment and advisory firm in Kenya. He is a seasoned professional with over 14 years of experience in IT, Finance, and leadership.
His career includes key roles at prominent institutions such as Equity Bank, Gulf African Bank, Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) and Airtel.
Robert’s expertise has also been sought after by the National Treasury for consultancy on planning and budgeting systems, showcasing his exceptional knowledge and skills in the field. Passionate about driving meaningful conversations and collaborations between academia, industry, and the public sector, Robert actively engages in research projects focusing on digital transformation within the financial services sector. With his visionary leadership and strategic insights, Robert Ochieng continues to make a significant impact in the business world.
