Business

For many individuals and businesses in Kenya, acquiring assets like vehicles, machinery, and equipment has been a significant challenge. Lengthy and complex financing processes, limited access to tailored options, and insufficient product variety have often caused delays and frustration. These barriers not only hinder growth but also limit productivity and efficiency.

Consider a small business owner who relies on an old, unreliable delivery truck to transport goods. The truck often breaks down, delaying deliveries and frustrating customers. Repair costs pile up, eating into profits, and the business struggles to meet growing demand. For individuals, the challenge could be commuting to work in an old car that constantly breaks down, leading to missed opportunities and unnecessary stress. These scenarios are all too common, but they don’t have to be.

To address these challenges, financiers like Equity Bank have introduced competitive asset financing solutions offering a seamless and flexible solution for individuals and businesses. The solution eliminates the financial burden of upfront costs, making it easier to acquire the tools needed to achieve personal and professional goals.

The solutions span a wide variety of assets, ensuring that customers can find solutions tailored to their unique needs. Motor vehicles such as private cars, light trucks, commercial trucks, pickups, PSVs, and taxis are included in the offering. Agricultural businesses can benefit from tractors, ploughs, combine harvesters, irrigation systems, cold rooms, and storage silos. Industrial equipment such as production lines, generators, and manufacturing plants is also covered, alongside medical equipment like CT scans, MRIs, ultrasound machines, and medical scanners. IT equipment, including mainframes, servers, printers, scanners, and projectors, as well as construction and mining equipment such as crushers, cranes, reach stackers, tippers, and concrete mixers. Special assets like aircraft, ferries, fishing vessels, solar panels, and electric vehicles are also part of the financing options.

With asset finance, one can enjoy a flexible repayment term of up to 84 months, allowing individuals and businesses to manage their cash flow effectively. Additionally, the financing is designed to meet specific needs through partnerships with trusted brands, ensuring customers receive high-quality, durable assets. For businesses, this solution is particularly valuable as it provides access to productive assets without tying up large amounts of capital. Whether it’s a delivery van or pickup, a fleet of trucks, or specialized equipment, businesses can now expand their operations and improve efficiency with ease.

Asset financing directly addresses common challenges faced by individuals and businesses. It simplifies the financing process to reduce delays and frustration, provides access to a wide variety of tailored financing options for different types of assets, and builds trust and confidence in financing solutions through partnerships with leading brands. It also ensures convenience by offering financing through preferred dealers and expands product variety to meet diverse consumer needs.

Equity’s innovative motor vehicle ownership solution is made possible through strategic partnerships with leading automotive dealerships, including CFAO Mobility, Toyota Kenya, Isuzu, Scania, TATA, and Simba Corporation.

By eliminating upfront costs and offering flexible repayment options, this solution empowers individuals and businesses to focus on what matters most – growth and productivity. For individuals, it means access to safer, more dependable vehicles. For businesses, it’s an opportunity to enhance operations, meet customer demands, and scale efficiently.

Whether you are an individual looking for a reliable car or a business seeking to expand your operations, the asset finance solution offers a unique opportunity to transform your individual or business productivity needs. With a wide range of asset options, flexible financing terms, and trusted partnerships, it’s time to power your next move, towards achieving your goals.

In the midst of Kenya’s vibrant hustle and bustle, where opportunities and challenges coexist, it’s easy to overlook one key aspect of financial security: insurance. While life is full of possibilities, it’s also filled with uncertainties. Accidents, illnesses, and even catastrophic events like fires can strike unexpectedly, threatening our financial stability. This is where insurance, especially with partners like Equity, becomes a crucial safety net.

Insurance is more than just a policy; it is protection. Whether it’s covering medical bills after an accident, repairing a car, or safeguarding your business, insurance offers financial security.

In Kenya, many small businesses face severe challenges, as seen in the case of Rose Nyambura — a business owner who lost her business worth millions in a fire during recent protests. Her business was located along Mfangano Street in Nairobi. “I had just bought new stock, and it was a night of endless tears. The compensation from insurance helped me rebuild my dreams and gave me hope,” she shared.

Without insurance, most of these entrepreneurs are left to rebuild from scratch, often without support. However, for those like Nyambura who had insurance, the compensation helped her rebuild her dreams and gave her hope.

One common misconception is that insurance is only for the wealthy. Insurance comes in a variety of ways to suit different budgets. From health coverage to property protection, policies are available for every financial situation. Even for the young and healthy, insurance provides protection against unexpected events that can drain savings.

Equity makes insurance more accessible through services like Insurance Premium Financing, which allows individuals and businesses to secure coverage without upfront payments. This flexibility ensures that more people can protect their health, property, and businesses without stretching their finances too thin. Equity’s ability to offer comprehensive coverage under one roof simplifies the process, helping customers make informed decisions.

“At Equity General Insurance, we understand that resilience is built on preparedness,” said Kris Mbwaya, Managing Director and Principal Officer of Equity General Insurance (Kenya) Ltd.
“Our mission is to ensure that every Kenyan, whether running a small business or managing a household, has access to reliable protection. What happened in downtown Nairobi is a powerful reminder that the right insurance cover can turn tragedy into a new beginning.”

Insurance is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. It provides peace of mind and stability, allowing you to focus on building your future. Equity ensures that, in times of uncertainty, you have a financial cushion to fall back on. With the right coverage, you can face life’s challenges with confidence, knowing that your future is secure.

The sudden collapse of SportyBet Kenya has sent shockwaves through the country’s betting industry, exposing the dark side of a sector plagued by billion-shilling disputes, regulatory crackdowns, and corporate secrecy. By March 2025, the once-popular platform had disappeared from the Kenyan market, leaving thousands of punters without answers and raising serious questions about the stability of the industry.

SportyBet had built a strong following by offering a wide range of betting options, from football, rugby, and cricket to basketball, tennis, e-sports, and virtual games. It allowed punters to place live, in-play bets with shifting odds and provided smooth mobile access through its website and dedicated Android and iOS apps. It marketed itself as the platform for “serious punters,” and for years, it delivered on that promise — at least on the surface. Behind the scenes, however, SportyBet was locked in a quiet but intense battle with Kenyan authorities.

The breaking point came when the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) slapped the company with a Ksh 5 billion tax demand. The move triggered a swift and brutal chain of events: the Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) suspended SportyBet’s license, its paybill numbers were frozen, and its bank accounts were locked. With no access to its own funds, the company could not pay staff, process withdrawals, or maintain its operations.

Regulatory pressure had already been building across the sector. Between September 2023 and August 2024, the BCLB reduced the number of licensed betting firms from 128 to 118. Reports of SportyBet’s licensing troubles date back to late 2022, but the platform continued to operate until the KRA dispute finally brought it to its knees. By March 2025, SportyBet had officially exited the Kenyan market, joining other big-name casualties such as Betway and Betking, which have also struggled under heavy compliance costs and regulatory hostility.

Determined to fight back, SportyBet went to court, claiming that the freezing of its accounts had “severely crippled” its business. It sought to challenge both the tax assessment and the operational restrictions. Despite months of litigation, the company failed to overturn the orders or resume operations, and the silence from its leadership only fueled punters’ frustration.

Long before its shutdown, SportyBet had been facing waves of user complaints. Bettors reported delayed withdrawals despite the platform’s “instant payout” promise, accounts being blocked without notice, and verification procedures that held up winnings for weeks. On social media and betting forums, some accused the platform of deliberately stalling payments to manage its cash flow — allegations the company never publicly addressed.

SportyBet’s collapse is part of a broader crackdown on Kenya’s betting industry. In April 2025, the BCLB imposed a nationwide 30-day ban on gambling ads and influencer promotions, while proposed fee hikes threatened to push smaller operators out of the market. The regulator’s unpredictability, combined with the rising cost of compliance, has made the sector volatile and unstable.

For punters, the shutdown meant more than just losing a betting option. Many lost access to their account balances and pending bets, affiliates lost their income streams, and the market lost one of its biggest players. The incident has raised critical questions: How much money was trapped in SportyBet accounts when the freeze hit? Was KRA’s Sh5 billion claim based on genuine arrears or disputed calculations? And why is there no clear mechanism to protect customer deposits when a betting firm collapses?

SportyBet’s downfall is a stark reminder that in Kenya’s betting industry, size and popularity are no guarantee of security. When regulators move in over tax disputes, licensing breaches, or compliance failures, punters are the first to lose. Without stronger safeguards and transparency, SportyBet’s fate could easily be repeated — and the next collapse could be just around the corner.

Pax Manor Muthaiga stands as a rare jewel in the heart of Nairobi, a sanctuary of elegance and sophistication that redefines what it means to experience luxury hospitality in Kenya.

More than simply a place to stay, this 5-star boutique hotel offers a fully immersive journey into comfort, style, and personalized service.

From the moment guests arrive, they are welcomed into a world where every detail has been thoughtfully curated to inspire tranquility, refinement, and unforgettable memories.

Nestled at 58 Muthaiga Road, the hotel enjoys a location that strikes the perfect balance between accessibility and exclusivity.

The prestigious Muthaiga neighborhood is one of Nairobi’s most sought-after addresses, celebrated for its serene charm, lush greenery, and elite status.

This prime setting allows guests to enjoy the peace of a discreet retreat while remaining within easy reach of the city’s vibrant business hubs, cultural landmarks, and leisure attractions. Whether visiting Nairobi for business, leisure, or a special occasion, Pax Manor Muthaiga offers an unmatched combination of privacy and convenience.

Stepping inside, guests are immediately embraced by an atmosphere of timeless elegance. The hotel’s architecture seamlessly blends contemporary sophistication with a subtle infusion of Kenyan charm. Suites are designed to maximize both space and comfort, with some offering sweeping views of the nearby Karura Forest.

The interiors are marked by custom-crafted furnishings, warm lighting, and a meticulous attention to detail that reflects the property’s commitment to excellence.

Whether savoring a quiet moment by the fireplace, enjoying the fresh air in the manicured gardens, or relaxing in the serene infinity pool after a day in the city, guests are surrounded by an environment that encourages both rest and indulgence.

Wellness is a central part of the Pax Manor experience. The fully equipped Hermes gym caters to fitness-conscious travelers who prefer to maintain their routines in an elegant and inspiring setting.

Those seeking a more leisurely pace can unwind in the cigar lounge, a refined space designed for quiet conversation and intimate relaxation. Every corner of the hotel has been created to offer not just comfort, but a sense of belonging and ease.

Culinary excellence is another hallmark of Pax Manor Muthaiga. The hotel’s signature restaurant, @Royal58, is a celebration of both flavor and finesse, offering a carefully curated menu that fuses Pan-Asian creativity with African vibrancy.

Each dish is prepared with artistry, using the finest locally sourced and seasonal ingredients to create meals that satisfy the palate as much as they inspire the senses.

Guests can enjoy a lavish gourmet breakfast to start their day, followed by an exquisite dinner in a candlelit setting that transforms every meal into a special occasion.

Business travelers will find that Pax Manor is more than prepared to meet their professional needs. The hotel offers state-of-the-art conference facilities and personalized services for meetings, retreats, and events.

Its close proximity to Gigiri and the United Nations headquarters makes it a strategic choice for international delegates, diplomats, and executives who value both discretion and convenience.

Every corporate gathering hosted at Pax Manor is executed with a level of precision, elegance, and professionalism that ensures a lasting impression.

At the helm of this exceptional hospitality experience is General Manager Thomas Joseph, a distinguished leader with a career that spans some of the most respected luxury brands across the globe. His leadership combines strategic vision with heartfelt dedication to guest satisfaction.

Thomas is renowned for his commitment to personalized engagement, ensuring that every visitor feels uniquely valued and cared for.

His focus on staff development, operational excellence, and cultural sensitivity has transformed Pax Manor Muthaiga into a globally respected name in luxury boutique accommodation.

Under his guidance, the hotel harmoniously blends Kenyan warmth with the sophistication of international hospitality.

Pax Manor Muthaiga is more than a luxury hotel in Nairobi; it is an experience that stays with guests long after they check out. From its exclusive location in Muthaiga and its impeccably designed interiors to its exceptional dining and dedicated service, every element works together to create a sense of timeless elegance.

Guests return not only for the comfort and amenities, but for the sense of home and belonging that the hotel cultivates.

For travelers seeking the finest luxury accommodation in Kenya, Pax Manor Muthaiga offers a compelling invitation to indulge in the art of refined hospitality.
Here, every stay is personalized, every detail is perfected, and every moment is crafted to be memorable.

Whether it is a corporate visit, a romantic escape, or a well-deserved retreat, Pax Manor promises an experience where sophistication meets serenity.
From the first welcome to the final farewell, Pax Manor Muthaiga delivers not just service, but a legacy of unforgettable hospitality.

Book your stay today and discover why Pax Manor Muthaiga is celebrated as Nairobi’s premier 5-star boutique hotel.

In this digital era, one can lose money at a click as scammers continue devising sophisticated ways to lure potential victims.

Cybercriminals are even targeting employees’ email accounts within organizations, using fake messages disguised as workplace policy updates. This marks a new variation in their constantly evolving tactics amid the rise of digital interactions.

Consider David, a young professional, who received a text message at work asking him to provide his bank account details for a reward program between his company and bank. The message included a link where he could “provide details.”

David, instead of clicking the link, remembered his bank’s consistent warnings about avoiding suspicious messages and links. Acting cautiously, he visited his HR and also contacted the bank directly.

The bank confirmed the message was a scam and emphasized that they never send reward links via text, urging verification through official channels.

#KataaUtapeli #KaaChonjo

Scammers exploit emotions like fear, urgency, and trust to trick people into sharing sensitive information or transferring money. They use tactics such as phishing messages with fake links posing as trusted institutions and social engineering to manipulate victims

For instance, they may call pretending to be bank representatives, asking for personal information under the guise of “verifying your account.” Others may claim to have accidentally sent you money and ask you to return it, only for you to later discover that the original transfer was fraudulent.

Scammers exploit carelessness in public spaces by offering unsolicited help at ATMs to steal PINs or swap cards. On public Wi-Fi, hackers can intercept data and access banking accounts unnoticed.

They also use lost IDs or passports to impersonate victims and open fake accounts. They also monitor social media for financial clues to take advantage of opportunities.

Some use fake emergencies like relatives asking for money and school fees and rent scams asking you to deposit money to new account numbers linked to your landlord or schools.

Essential Security Tips to Protect Yourself

• Avoid clicking on links in unsolicited messages; verify directly with your bank.
• Use strong passwords and verify passwords with authentication apps.
• Avoid saving your banking passwords on your phone or browser, especially on shared devices.
• Never share a password reset code.

Equity Bank is committed to safeguarding its customers’ accounts. If you’re an Equity customer, keep these essential security measures in mind:

• Never share your ATM’s CVV (three-digit CVV code at the back of your card), PIN, password, or OTP; banks won’t ask for your PIN or password.
• Use different passwords for banking and social media accounts.
• If your card gets stuck at an ATM, don’t leave or accept help; call your bank immediately.
• Use mobile data, avoid using public Wi-Fi for online banking.
• Confirm payment instructions before transferring money.
• Download banking apps only from official stores and enable 2-factor authentication.
• Memorize your PIN, keep it private, and cover the keypad when entering your pin while in public.
• Report lost IDs or passports to your bank immediately and other relevant authorities.
• Don’t accept help from strangers at ATMs; call your bank if your card is stuck.
• Monitor your accounts regularly and report suspicious activity promptly.
• Report any suspicious numbers or SMS lines to 333 for FREE.
• Be wary of calls or messages from unknown numbers. All official calls from Equity Bank will originate from 0763 000 000.

Be Vigilant: Take control of your financial security now, protect yourself from fraudsters and ensure your hard-earned money stays safe!

Looking for a five-star experience in one of Nairobi’s most prestigious and exclusive neighbourhoods? Pax Manor Muthaiga is your ultimate destination.

Nestled in a picturesque location near Karura Forest, the luxurious hotel embodies the perfect blend of hospitality, luxury, convenience, elegance, and tranquility – offering guests an unforgettable escape in the heart of the city.

Some of the amenities at this hidden gem include:

Rooms And Suites

Pax Manor’s rooms and suites are designed to deliver peerless comfort and world-class hospitality.

Located in one of Nairobi’s most exclusive neighborhoods, each accommodation option features contemporary amenities, tasteful décor, fine furniture, and meticulous attention to detail.

Guests enjoy diverse, mouth-watering cuisines, personalized service, and a serene atmosphere that ensures every stay is truly memorable.

Choose from a variety of accommodations to suit your style: Premium Luxury Tents, spacious Deluxe or standard rooms.

Whether for business or leisure, Pax Manor Muthaiga promises an unmatched five-star experience.

Relaxing Gardens

The serene gardens at Pax Manor Muthaiga offer a peaceful escape where nature takes centre stage.
Perfect for a quiet morning coffee, a leisurely stroll, or an afternoon spent unwinding with your favourite book, these beautifully landscaped grounds invite you to slow down and savour the moment.

Events & Conferencing

Pax Manor Muthaiga is also an exceptional venue for events, meetings, and celebrations. With elegantly appointed spaces, state-of-the-art conferencing facilities, and a dedicated events team, every gathering – whether corporate or social – is executed with precision and style.

From private board meetings to elegant weddings, Pax Manor offers a memorable setting complemented by impeccable service.

Dining – The Royal 58 Experience

At the heart of Pax Manor’s culinary excellence is the Royal 58 Restaurant, where fine dining meets warm Kenyan hospitality.

The menu, crafted by expert chefs, showcases an array of local and international dishes made from the freshest ingredients.

Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a light bite, the menu is tailored to satisfy every craving.

Pax Manor’s Bar And Whisky

The master mixologists stir up more than just drinks – they craft experiences. From smoky whisky reinventions to vibrant, fruit-forward creations, every cocktail is designed to surprise your taste buds.

Here, every glass comes with a dash of humor, a splash of magic, and the promise of a deliciously unforgettable night.

Esquire Cinema

Experience entertainment in style at Esquire Cinema, where every seat is first-class and every screening is unforgettable.

Viewing is designed to immerse you in comfort and excitement. Sit back, relax, and let the magic unfold.

Hermes Gym

Train like a titan at Hermes Fitness Center, where luxury meets performance. Enjoy access to top-tier equipment, expert guidance from personal trainers, and a motivating environment designed to help you reach your fitness goals.

After your workout, unwind with unlimited access to our swimming pool, steam room and sauna perfect for relaxation and recovery.

The Unique Msitu Tented Luxury

Welcome to MSITU – a serene sanctuary of luxury and tranquility tucked away in the lush landscapes of Pax Manor Muthaiga.

The exclusive tented suites combine the enchanting charm of the outdoors with refined sophistication, creating an extraordinary retreat where nature’s beauty meets modern indulgence.

Each MSITU tented suite is thoughtfully crafted to immerse you in the beauty of nature, while ensuring that every element of luxury and comfort remains uncompromised.

Whether you seek a romantic getaway, a peaceful retreat, or a unique adventure, MSITU offers an unmatched stay that caters to your desires.

Infinity-Edge Swimming Pool

Perfect for a refreshing dip under Nairobi’s golden sun, where crystal waters meet endless horizons.
Our infinity pool doesn’t just offer a swim – it offers an escape from the city without leaving Nairobi.

When the water meets the sky and the forest whispers below, you’ll understand why guests never want to leave this spot.

Pax Manor Manager – Mr. Thomas Joseph

Thomas Joseph is a seasoned hospitality professional with over 31 years of distinguished international experience in managing luxury hotels, resorts, and restaurants across India, Africa, and aboard prestigious cruise liners.

Currently at the helm of Pax Manor Muthaiga, Thomas Joseph brings a wealth of expertise, strategic insight, and an unwavering commitment to excellence that defines every facet of the guest experience.

A graduate of IHMCT Kovalam and an alumnus of St. Xavier’s School, Ranchi, Thomas Joseph has honed his skills across a broad spectrum of hospitality operations, including catering, food & beverage, front office management, and facilities management. His leadership is marked by a consistent track record of enhancing operational efficiency, improving financial performance, and elevating guest satisfaction.
Renowned for his ability to anticipate needs before they are voiced, Thomas Joseph blends operational mastery with authentic hospitality, ensuring that every guest interaction is seamless and memorable.

His strategic vision, combined with strong administrative acumen, allows him to lead teams with clarity, precision, and passion.

Under his leadership, Pax Manor Muthaiga stands as a benchmark of refined service and timeless elegance—where every detail is meticulously managed, standards are uncompromising, and guests leave not only satisfied but truly valued.