Aston Villa are poised to complete a major move this transfer window, having secured a deal worth approximately €35 million (around £30.4 million) to sign Evann Guessand from French side Nice

Deal Terms & Timeline

• The agreement includes €30 m with up to €5 m in add-ons, confirmed by both Fabrizio Romano and club sources
• Guessand, a 24‑year‑old forward representing Ivory Coast internationally, is expected to undergo a medical in England this week, with a five‑year contract reportedly lined up

Player Profile & Squad Fit

• Guessand scored 12 goals in 32 Ligue 1 appearances last season and recently netted his first international goal in March for Ivory Coast
• Standing at 1.88 m, the forward offers physical presence, strong link‑up play, pressing energy, and positional flexibility across Villa’s attacking front — traits suited to Unai Emery’s tactical style .

In recent months, Guessand had attracted interest from Roma, Brighton, and Fenerbahçe, sparking a competitive race which Villa appear to have won

Squad Context & Potential Impact

• This transfer marks Villa’s first major outlay of the summer, coming after only modest signings like experienced goalkeeper Marco Bizot, kept minimal amid profitability and sustainability rules
• Manager Unai Emery looks to add depth and tactical options alongside Ollie Watkins, the club’s only recognised pure striker currently. Guessand is seen as either a long‑term successor to John Duran or challenge to squad rotation players such as Leon Bailey

Fan & Expert Insight

A popular reaction from r/soccer underscores the broader sentiment:

“Villa always do their business in silence… should be a good signing”
“People expect any incomings to be balanced by an outgoing… they’ve got this guy before a sale must mean they’ve sold someone or are close to”

Looking Ahead

In summary, Aston Villa have secured what could become a pivotal acquisition in Evann Guessand, blending increasing output in Ligue 1 with structural fit in Emery’s system. At around £30 million, with bonuses, Villa have moved decisively in the closing stages of the window to bolster their attacking options for the coming season.

Chelsea FC has officially signed 19-year-old Netherlands international Jorrel Hato from Ajax on a seven-year contract running through June 2032  The transfer fee is widely reported at around €44.18 million (approximately £37 million) 

Player Profile & Career Highlights

• Origins: Born in Rotterdam, Hato joined Ajax’s youth academy in 2018 after initially starting with Sparta Rotterdam 
• Early Breakthrough: He made his professional debut for Ajax at just 16, and by the 2023–24 season, he was a regular starter and vice-captain 
• Player Attributes: Known for his versatility, Hato can play both left-back and centre-back. He’s strong in tackles, comfortable on the ball, and showcases leadership beyond his years .
• International Experience: Hato has earned six senior caps for the Netherlands and captained the U21 side during the Euro qualifiers 

What the Transfer Adds to Chelsea

• Strengthens Defensive Depth: Hato joins Chelsea to compete with Marc Cucurella for the left-back spot while providing cover at centre-back 
• High Investment Sign: His arrival marks Chelsea’s eighth major signing of the summer, pushing their transfer spending past £250 million T
• Youthful Potential: Already highly rated in Dutch and European football circles, the teenager is seen as a long-term defensive asset for the Blues 

Summary Table

Transfer Verdict

Chelsea’s capture of Jorrel Hato underlines the club’s commitment to youth and long-term stability in defence. His elite potential, coupled with the seven-year commitment and high fee, makes this one of their most strategic signings this summer.

As couples grow old together, their love deepens, but physical intimacy often changes. In many Christian marriages, especially in Africa, age brings challenges that test the depth of marital vows. For example, a devout Christian man in Kenya who marries his beloved at 20 may find himself still romantically devoted by age 75, yet facing reduced sexual intimacy from his wife. Despite still being physically capable himself, he is bound by Christian sexual ethics in old age—not permitted to remarry or engage in extramarital relations. How, then, can he remain faithful and fulfilled in a God-honoring way?

This article addresses this rarely discussed but deeply felt dilemma, offering practical, biblical, and culturally sensitive insights for couples navigating long marriages into their 70s, 80s, and beyond.

The Natural Evolution of Sexual Desire in Old Age

Sexual desire is influenced by hormones, health, and emotional dynamics. In women, post-menopausal changes often lead to reduced libido, vaginal dryness, and physical discomfort during intercourse. These changes are natural—not a flaw, sin, or failure.

Men, on the other hand, may retain a functional sexual drive well into their 70s or 80s, albeit with slower arousal and performance. The result is often a mismatch in sexual appetite—one that modern Christian couples, especially in conservative African societies like Kenya, may not know how to address due to cultural silence around aging and intimacy.

Why Second Wives Were Historically Common in Africa

In many traditional African societies, older men took second wives around the age of 50–60. This was not only about satisfying desire—it was also about family legacy, labor division, and social structure. Polygyny was culturally accepted and often encouraged, especially where children signified wealth and continuity. In fact, the ability of an older man to father children in his later years was seen as a mark of virility and blessing.

Islam institutionalized this with a limit of four wives, provided a man could treat them all justly (Qur’an 4:3). But Christianity, rooted in New Testament teachings, upholds monogamy as the ideal model (1 Timothy 3:2, Matthew 19:5-6).

This difference is critical. In Christian sexual ethics, fidelity is not just physical but also spiritual and emotional. The challenge becomes how to honor this ethic while also acknowledging real physical needs.

Christian Marital Intimacy Beyond Intercourse

At age 75 and beyond, intimacy must be redefined. According to Christian sexual ethics in old age, marital affection is not limited to sex. It includes:

• Non-sexual physical touch: Holding hands, cuddling, massaging, and sleeping close reinforce emotional bonding.
• Affectionate communication: Expressing love, admiration, and memories builds intimacy.
• Spiritual intimacy: Praying together and discussing scripture can help couples find shared joy and purpose.

The apostle Paul acknowledged marital needs in 1 Corinthians 7:5, advising couples not to deprive each other except by mutual consent. If one partner cannot meet the other’s needs physically, mutual understanding, compassion, and creative companionship become essential.

What Should the Older Man Do?

A man in this situation—still healthy, desiring physical intimacy, but bound by Christian values—can consider the following:

1. Talk openly and gently: The couple should have honest conversations about changing desires. Shame or silence only creates emotional distance.
2. Seek counseling: Christian marital counselors, especially those familiar with aging, can provide faith-based, private guidance.
3. Accept and redirect desire: Sexual energy can be redirected into service, creativity, or increased emotional bonding. While celibacy within marriage is hard, it is not impossible.
4. Embrace patience and prayer: This may be a “thorn in the flesh” moment (2 Corinthians 12:7–10). Grace is sufficient. Patience can also deepen empathy and holiness.
5. Avoid temptation: Stay away from environments, people, or media that may arouse lust or breed dissatisfaction. Accountability partners can help maintain purity.
6. Keep the body active and healthy: Exercise, diet, and stress management help regulate desire and mood.

Is This God’s Design? A Test or a Transition?

It is neither punishment nor cruelty. Rather, it may be part of the divine design that, as the body fades, the soul ascends in love and patience. Christian sexual ethics in old age invite believers to transition from eros (passion) to agape (selfless love). The season may teach dependence on God more than dependence on physical fulfillment.

Furthermore, the experience can be a testimony to younger Christians that marriage is built on more than sex—it is about covenant, companionship, and commitment.

Advice for Younger Couples Preparing for Longevity

• Plan for aging now: Build emotional and spiritual intimacy early, not just physical.
• Learn your partner’s love languages. They evolve with time.
• Remain open to counseling or marriage enrichment even in old age.
• Remember: sexual changes are not betrayals, just biology.

Christian Sexual Ethics in Old Age as a Testament of Love

Navigating desire at age 75 or beyond may seem lonely or unfair, especially for a man who remains virile while his wife withdraws physically. But Christian sexual ethics in old age remind us that marriage is a lifelong covenant—not a contract based on performance.

For devout Christian couples, especially in African settings where culture once supported polygamy, this season is a spiritual invitation: to love more purely, to wait more patiently, and to serve one another with humility.

God’s grace sustains. His Spirit empowers. And His love teaches that intimacy—though it may change—never has to end.

In a dramatic policy shift that has sent shockwaves across the East African region, Tanzania has moved to bar foreign nationals from engaging in at least 15 categories of small-scale business. The directive, announced by the Ministry of Trade and Industry, affects entrepreneurs from neighbouring countries such as Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi, many of whom have been operating informal and semi-formal enterprises within Tanzanian borders for years. The move, now widely discussed under the banner “Tanzania Bans Foreigner Businesses,” has raised critical questions about the future of regional integration, the sanctity of the East African Community (EAC) protocols, and the economic consequences of economic protectionism in a bloc founded on free movement and shared prosperity.

Why Did Tanzania Do This?

• Economic nationalism and job creation: It’s a deliberate policy to reserve local service niches for nationals in a bid to reduce unemployment and retain more micro‑business earnings domestically
• Domestic political pressures: The government may be responding to political expectations to prioritize citizens’ economic opportunities over foreign competition.
• Tension over integration pace: Tanzania has often been the most cautious EAC member on deeper integration, notably delaying an EU trade deal in past summits

Who’s Hurt If EAC Partners Retaliate?

Tanzania

• Export disruption: About 22% of Tanzania’s exports (~ $2.1B annually) go through neighboring countries, especially through Kenyan ports. If Kenyans retaliate (e.g. barring Tanzanian goods or transport services), transit chains may collapse
• Logistics stranded: Tanzania relies on Kenyan infrastructure for 75% of its transit goods; retaliation could choke supply lines.

Read Also: Why Do Male Dogs Urinate on Objects? The Science Behind a Common Sight in Kenyan Estates

Kenya & Other EAC States

• Displaced cross-border entrepreneurs: Around half a million East Africans, including Kenyans, operate micro‑enterprises in each other’s countries. Bans would fuel job loss and dislocation
• Undermined free movement: The move contravenes EAC’s Common Market Protocol guaranteeing freedom of labor and services, eroding investor confidence across the region
• Regional investment climate: Tit for tat measures signal instability—discouraging foreign and intra‑regional investment.

In short: Tanzania risks logistics and export harm; its neighbors risk job displacement and integration breakdown. The broader region may lose unity and investor trust.

Diplomatic and Legal Pathways to Resolution

1. EAC Mediation and Diplomacy

• Kenya and other states can invoke emergency consultation under the EAC Council of Ministers or Summit to negotiate Tanzania’s tariffs and ban, potentially securing exemptions or staged compliance
• Regional mediation could also include crafting compensatory mechanisms, such as joint small‑business quotas or licensure regimes.

2. Legal Recourse via EAC Treaty Obligations

• Affected Kenyan/EAC traders or states could file a dispute before the East African Court of Justice, arguing that Tanzania is violating the Common Market Protocol. The Court may rule the ban illegal and require reversal or compensation.
• Though enforcement often depends on political goodwill, precedent shows the EACJ can shape legal reform across states

3. WTO or International Arbitration

• Kenya could bring a formal WTO case based on trade discrimination, though that process takes time and enforcement may be limited regionally.

4. Bilateral Negotiations

• Kenya might negotiate sector-specific exemptions in exchange for agreements on Tanzanian exports or investment reciprocity. For instance, joint ventures, licensing, or preferential access for Tanzanian producers in Kenyan markets.

Broader Implications

How Can This Be Resolved?

• Immediate convening of an EAC summit to address the ban, with binding roadmap toward compliance.
• Temporary exemptions, with quotas or licensing for EAC citizens in small‑business categories while Tanzania transitions to a fully local workforce.
• Compensatory agreements, e.g. Kenyan infrastructure or transport commitments in return for Tanzania rewinding restrictions.
• Judicial resolution at the EACJ to interpret and enforce the livelihood clauses of the Common Market Protocol.

Bottom Line

• Tanzania’s focus keyword decision—to ban foreigners in small business sectors—is motivated by economic-nationalist goals but flies in the face of EAC integration obligations.
• If not defused diplomatically, both Tanzania and its neighbors stand to lose: disrupted trade corridors, displacement of cross-border entrepreneurs, and erosion of regional unity.
• A combination of regional negotiation, legal arbitration, and pragmatic compromise offers the main pathway back to mutual benefit and EAC solidarity.

As the diplomatic dust begins to settle, the broader implications of the policy labelled “Tanzania Bans Foreigner Businesses” continue to ripple across the East African landscape. While the Tanzanian government insists the decision is aimed at empowering its citizens, the potential for retaliation by neighboring EAC partners looms large—threatening trade corridors, regional employment, and the spirit of integration. The path forward lies in dialogue, legal recourse through EAC mechanisms, and a shared commitment to balancing national interests with collective progress. Whether this ban becomes a stumbling block or a stepping stone for East African unity depends on how quickly and wisely the region chooses to respond.

A Familiar Scene in Nairobi and Beyond

If you’ve ever walked through a typical estate in Nairobi, Kitengela, or Nakuru, you’ve probably witnessed this: a male dog suddenly veers off the road to urinate on a car tyre, gate post, or tree stump. To many, this might seem like just another odd animal quirk. But in reality, the act of male dogs urinating on objects is deeply rooted in science — a mix of instinct, communication, and territorial behavior.

What Drives This Behavior? Instinct, Not Disrespect

1. Scent Marking: Nature’s Own Billboard

Male dogs urinate on upright objects to mark their territory. Their urine contains complex chemical signals called pheromones. These compounds allow dogs to communicate without ever meeting face-to-face.

When a dog pees on a vertical surface like a car tyre or a wall, the scent stays longer and is easily detected by other dogs. Think of it as a biological signpost that says:

“I was here. I’m male. I’m healthy. I’m in charge.”

This is not unique to Kenya — it’s a globally observed behavior, from the stray dogs of Mumbai to the well-groomed shepherds in Karen, Nairobi.

Read Also: Flying Private in Kenya – A Rising Trend

2. Testosterone and the Territorial Urge

Male dogs, especially unneutered ones, are flooded with testosterone, the hormone that boosts competitiveness and territorial instincts. This makes them more likely to:

• Pee on multiple objects during a walk
• Raise their leg higher to “outmark” others
• Return to the same spots over and over

In places like Ruiru or Athi River where many homes have fenced compounds and pets, dogs frequently mark corners, trees, or even household furniture if not trained properly.

Why Car Tyres, Trees, and Poles?

You might wonder: Of all places, why the car tyre?

It turns out, car tyres are perfect scent retainers:

• They carry smells from different places the car has been.
• They’re vertical and absorbent.
• Other dogs have likely marked them too, making them high-value “communication hubs.”

In rural Kenya, dogs might prefer tree trunks, while in urban estates like Lavington or Syokimau, poles and gate corners are common marking points.

Male vs. Female Dogs: Is There a Difference?

Yes. Female dogs can mark too, but it’s far less frequent. Males are biologically more prone to marking due to hormones and behavior driven by mating competition.

Normal Urination vs. Marking

Should Kenyan Pet Owners Be Concerned?

Not really — unless marking becomes excessive indoors. In such cases, especially for apartment dwellers in Kileleshwa or Westlands, it could indicate:

• Anxiety or stress
• Lack of boundaries or training
• Sexual frustration in unneutered dogs

If marking becomes a nuisance:

• Neuter your dog to reduce hormone-driven marking
• Regular walks help dogs express themselves outside, reducing the need to mark indoors
• Training and positive reinforcement can teach dogs to mark appropriately

Urbanization and Dog Behavior in Kenya

With more Kenyans adopting dogs as pets — especially in gated communities and peri-urban towns like Juja, Rongai, and Ngong — understanding these natural behaviors is important. A pet is not just a companion but a creature wired with instincts.

Ignoring these instincts often leads to frustration on both sides. Instead, learning why your male dog urinates on objects can help you live harmoniously and even enjoy those walks better.

It’s Communication, Not Confusion

The next time you see a dog lifting its leg to pee on a car tyre in Nairobi traffic or a tree in Machakos, know this: it’s not random. It’s a form of non-verbal, chemical communication passed down from wolves and wild dogs, hardcoded into their behavior.

Understanding this helps pet owners in Kenya manage their pets more compassionately — turning what seems like an odd act into something fascinatingly biological.

Healthcare in Kenya is evolving—and so are the ways we access medical insurance. For many individuals and families, finding an affordable, flexible, and reliable health cover can be a daunting task. That’s where Jubilee Health Insurance steps in. As one of Kenya’s most trusted insurance providers, Jubilee has embraced digital innovation to offer affordable health cover options starting from as low as Ksh 6,200 per year, with flexible monthly payment plans and instant online application.

Whether you’re looking to protect your family, your employees, or just yourself, Jubilee offers a variety of medical plans tailored to different needs and budgets. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Jubilee Health Cover—from available plans and what they cover, to how to apply, how much it costs, and why it may be one of the smartest healthcare decisions you can make today.

1. Why Choose Jubilee Health Insurance?

Jubilee stands out as a pioneer in digital health insurance solutions in Kenya. The company has developed a range of health covers that are both comprehensive and accessible. These plans are designed to eliminate paperwork, reduce costs, and simplify access to quality healthcare services—particularly for Kenyans who previously found medical insurance out of reach.

One of their standout products is CoverBora, a budget-friendly plan targeting individuals and families with limited income but still in need of meaningful inpatient medical cover.

2. Affordable Payment Plans: Start from Ksh 6,200 Annually

One of the biggest barriers to health insurance is affordability—and Jubilee has addressed this head-on.

• With CoverBora, policyholders pay as little as Ksh 6,200 per year (or manageable monthly installments).
• No upfront medical examination is required.
• Approval and activation happen almost instantly online.

For those who prefer higher-tier plans, Jubilee still offers flexible premiums depending on coverage level, family size, and age group.

3. Entire Process Is Digital: No Agents, No Paperwork

Applying for health insurance is often a time-consuming process involving long queues, paperwork, and back-and-forths. Jubilee has removed all those hurdles by digitizing the application process.

You can now:

• Visit the Jubilee Insurance website
• Choose a plan
• Fill in your details
• Make your payment
• Get your policy activated immediately

This simple process saves time and makes it easier for first-time users to obtain coverage.

4. What Do the Plans Cover?

Jubilee’s health insurance plans are built around essential healthcare needs. Coverage varies by plan but may include:

• Inpatient care (hospital stays, surgeries, medication, etc.)
• Outpatient services (consultations, diagnostics, etc.)
• Chronic disease management
• Maternity and newborn care
• Dental and optical benefits
• Emergency evacuation and ambulance cover
• Telemedicine services and home delivery of medication

These benefits allow policyholders to receive timely and quality healthcare, whether at home or at their preferred facility.

5. Types of Jubilee Health Plans

Jubilee offers a wide selection of medical covers designed for different customer segments. Here’s a snapshot:

Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, a parent, or part of a chama or SME, there’s a Jubilee health plan tailored to your needs.

6. How to Apply and Make Payments

Jubilee has made applying for health cover a frictionless experience:

Steps to Apply Online:

1. Visit jubileeinsurance.com/ke
2. Select your preferred health plan
3. Enter personal information (name, ID, dependents)
4. Choose annual or monthly payment option
5. Pay via M-PESA or card
6. Receive instant policy confirmation via email or SMS

For those needing guidance, you can call 0709 949 000 or send “HEALTH” to 40643 via SMS.

7. Value-Added Services

Jubilee goes beyond standard insurance by integrating lifestyle and wellness into its packages:

• Free home delivery of medicine
• 24/7 teleconsultation with licensed doctors
• Emotional wellness support, including therapy and counseling
• Preventive health screening

These extras are designed to help policyholders stay healthy and manage conditions before they escalate.

8. Why It Makes Financial Sense

Investing in health insurance is no longer a luxury. With medical emergencies being one of the leading causes of household debt in Kenya, a policy with Jubilee helps mitigate the financial burden of:

• Unexpected surgeries
• Chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension
• Maternity and childbirth expenses
• Dental and vision emergencies

With CoverBora and other flexible plans, it’s now possible to protect your future without breaking the bank.

Jubilee Health Insurance has set a new standard for affordable, digital-first medical coverage in Kenya. With prices starting at Ksh 6,200 per year, flexible monthly installments, and instant online sign-up, it’s never been easier for Kenyans to take control of their healthcare.

Whether you’re protecting your family, employees, or yourself, Jubilee has a plan to match your needs—and your budget. Visit jubileeinsurance.com/ke today to explore your options, and take the first step toward peace of mind.

In recent years, private jet hire in Kenya has become more accessible, albeit still a luxury for the elite. High-net-worth individuals, business executives, politicians, celebrities, and humanitarian organizations are increasingly opting for private air travel over commercial flights. Kenya’s well-developed aviation infrastructure, especially at Wilson Airport and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi, has enabled a thriving private aviation industry.

Whether it’s a quick flight to Diani Beach, a business trip to Kampala, or an emergency evacuation from remote Turkana, private jet chartering offers convenience, privacy, and speed. But how much does it really cost?

Understanding the Cost of Private Jet Hire in Kenya

Hiring a private jet in Kenya involves various pricing models depending on the aircraft type, distance, services, and duration. The cost is generally calculated per hour of flight time and can vary widely.

1. Cost Breakdown by Aircraft Type

Note: These are estimates. Final quotes depend on aircraft age, crew availability, and route demand.

Read Also: Nairobi’s Global Rise: United Nations to Establish Three New Offices in Kenya by 2026

Example Costs for Popular Routes

To give a clearer picture, here are sample round-trip charter prices in USD for popular routes:

Other Cost Factors to Consider

1. Positioning Fees
   If the aircraft is not based at your departure location, you’ll pay for it to “position” from its base. For example, a jet based in Wilson Airport may need to reposition from Kilimanjaro or Addis Ababa.
2. Waiting Time and Overnight Charges
   Charges apply if the crew waits overnight for your return leg. Hotels, allowances, and hangarage fees are added to your bill.
3. Airport Landing and Handling Fees
   Kenyan airports charge between $150 and $1,000 per landing depending on the size of the aircraft and airport.
4. Fuel Surcharges and Insurance
   Given fluctuating global fuel prices, expect a surcharge. Insurance and navigation charges may also apply.
5. Luxury Add-ons
   Catering, VIP ground transport, and concierge services are usually extra and based on preference.

Who Provides Private Jet Hire in Kenya?

Several licensed operators and charter brokers offer private jet hire in Kenya, including:

• East African Air Charters (Wilson Airport)
• Phoenix Aviation
• ALS Limited
• Safarilink (for scenic and short regional flights)
• Aeronav Air Services
• Private brokers like JetClass or XO (via online platforms)

Many clients work through brokers to access a wider variety of aircraft, especially for one-way or urgent flights.

Read Also: Three Things You Should Know About Mosquitoes

Is It Worth It?

While expensive, private jet hire can be worthwhile for time-sensitive business trips, family emergencies, high-profile security needs, or luxurious safari experiences. The time saved bypassing commercial airport queues, delays, and limited schedules offers unmatched value for the right client.

In fact, many corporates and international NGOs consider it cost-effective when transporting teams to remote or insecure regions like Lodwar, Kakuma, or DRC border zones where commercial flights are rare or inconsistent.

Alternatives to Full Private Jet Hire

If full chartering is out of budget, consider:

• Shared charters: Splitting the cost with other passengers.
• Empty leg flights: Discounted one-way trips when jets return empty.
• Jet cards / memberships: Prepaid flight hours at fixed rates.

Flying Smart with Luxury in the Skies

Private jet hire in Kenya is a premium service, with costs ranging from $2,000 to over $10,000 per hour depending on the aircraft and route. While it remains a luxury, the rise of shared charter models and tech-based brokers is slowly making it more attainable.

For individuals or businesses prioritizing time, comfort, and discretion, private flying is not just a luxury—it’s a strategic advantage.

Just How Many Kenyans Own a Car?

When people think about economic growth, mobility and infrastructure, one silent but telling statistic often comes up: car ownership. So, how many Kenyans own a car? As of 2025, the vehicle-to-population ratio in Kenya is approximately 30 vehicles per 1,000 people. This means only about 3% of Kenyans own a car — a relatively low figure compared to global averages.

Despite a growing middle class, rapid urbanization, and aspirational lifestyles, car ownership in Kenya remains restricted by a complex mix of economic, policy, infrastructural, and cultural factors. This article explores those reasons in detail — and compares Kenya to other countries to understand what’s holding it back and where it might be headed.

The Numbers: Car Ownership in Kenya

According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), the number of registered vehicles in Kenya stands at about 4.6 million as of 2024. However, this includes motorcycles, trucks, and commercial vehicles. The actual number of private cars is closer to 2.2 million.

With a national population estimated at over 52 million, that puts Kenya’s private car ownership rate at around 3–4%.

Why Is Car Ownership So Low in Kenya?

1. High Cost of Car Ownership

Even with the proliferation of used imports from Japan and the UK, cars remain expensive. A decent second-hand car in Kenya can cost between KES 800,000 to 1.5 million — a figure far beyond what the average Kenyan earns annually. On top of that are:

• Import duties (25% import tax + 20% excise duty + 16% VAT)
• High fuel prices (KES 190–210/litre for petrol)
• Maintenance and insurance costs

2. Low Incomes and Credit Accessibility

The World Bank estimates that Kenya’s GDP per capita is around USD 2,200 (2024). Coupled with limited access to low-interest auto loans and a large informal sector, many citizens simply cannot afford car financing. Most Kenyans prioritize land, education, or building homes over owning a car.

3. Urban Congestion and Poor Road Infrastructure

Major urban centers like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu face serious traffic congestion. Owning a car can sometimes feel more like a burden than a convenience. With insufficient parking, poor road maintenance, and frequent gridlocks, public transport remains the more viable option.

4. Efficient (Though Crowded) Public Transport

Kenya’s unique matatu system, bodabodas (motorcycle taxis), ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt, and long-distance buses make moving around relatively accessible without a car. For many Kenyans, these alternatives are cheaper, faster, and more practical than owning a personal vehicle.

Global Comparisons: How Kenya Stacks Up

To understand Kenya’s place globally, here is a comparative table showing car ownership rates in various countries:

Data sources: World Bank, OICA, NTSA, KNBS, Bloomberg (2023/2024 estimates)

Kenya’s numbers are among the lowest globally, only slightly higher than some low-income African countries, but far below even developing economies like Brazil or China.

The Rise of Used Car Imports: A Kenyan Lifeline

Over 85% of cars on Kenyan roads are used imports, mostly from Japan. The import age cap of 8 years has allowed a steady flow of affordable vehicles, but it’s also led to a saturated used-car market, clogged roads, and high emissions.

Several Kenyan startups and Saccos now offer car loans, lease-to-own models, and group vehicle financing schemes. However, uptake remains slow due to high interest rates and strict credit profiling.

Is the Future Brighter?

With GDP projected to grow at around 5.5% in 2025, urban development expanding, and young professionals entering the workforce, private car ownership in Kenya is set to grow — albeit slowly.

Electric vehicles (EVs) and local assembly plants (like Mobius, Isuzu East Africa, and associated foreign partnerships) could provide more affordable options in the coming years.

Government policies such as the National Automotive Policy and discussions to reduce taxes on locally assembled cars also point to a long-term effort to make car ownership more accessible.

Car Ownership in Kenya Reflects Economic Realities

Car ownership in Kenya is still a luxury for most — not a necessity. With just around 3% of Kenyans owning cars, the statistics reflect broader structural realities: low incomes, high taxation, weak infrastructure, and relatively efficient public transport systems.

But the story doesn’t end here. As Kenya’s economy grows, infrastructure improves, and more financing options emerge, we’re likely to see a shift in car ownership trends. Whether that comes through conventional vehicles or electric alternatives remains to be seen — but the Kenyan dream of owning a car is very much alive.