Xiaomi has expanded its budget lineup with the Xiaomi Redmi 17. The new device targets shoppers who want strong battery life and a large display without a flagship price tag.

It launches alongside the Redmi Note 17 and slots neatly into Xiaomi’s growing 2026 portfolio.

Design and Display

The Xiaomi Redmi 17 ships with a 6.9-inch display. The panel runs at a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, making scrolling and gaming feel fluid.

Xiaomi built the phone with an IP65 rating, so light rain and dust are not a problem. The design favors durability, a welcome trait at this price point.

Performance and Battery

Two chipsets power the Xiaomi Redmi 17 family. The 4G variant runs on a MediaTek Helio G91 Ultra, built on a 12nm process.

The 5G version uses a Snapdragon 4 Gen 5 chipset instead, aimed at buyers who want faster connectivity. Both configurations deliver dependable everyday performance for browsing, streaming, and social media.

Battery life is where this phone stands out. A massive 7,500mAh battery anchors the device, supporting up to 109 hours of music playback on a single charge.

Xiaomi pairs this with 45W turbo charging, cutting downtime significantly. Heavy users and long travel days will appreciate the endurance.

Camera and Software

The Xiaomi Redmi 17 carries a 50-megapixel AI-enhanced main camera. Photos come out sharp in daylight, with AI processing helping in trickier lighting.

Video capture supports up to 1080p recording. On the software side, the phone runs Android 16 with HyperOS 3, Xiaomi’s latest interface layer. HyperOS 3 brings smoother animations and better multitasking than earlier versions.

Memory and Storage Options

Buyers can choose from several RAM and storage combinations. Options include 4GB+128GB, 4GB+256GB, and 6GB+128GB configurations.

Xiaomi also supports memory extension, pushing usable RAM up to 12GB for smoother multitasking. This flexibility lets shoppers pick a configuration that fits their budget and usage needs.

Read more: Future of computing

Xiaomi Redmi 17 Price in Kenya

Kenyan retailers have already listed the Xiaomi Redmi 17. Prices vary by storage and retailer, ranging from roughly Ksh 17,000 for entry-level 4G models to around Ksh 74,999 for higher-spec variants with more RAM and storage.

Shoppers comparing the Xiaomi Redmi 17 5G against the 4G version will notice the price gap reflects the faster chipset and network support.

How to Buy Xiaomi Redmi 17 in Kenya

Kenyan buyers have multiple reliable options:

1. Authorized Xiaomi retailers — Official Xiaomi stores in Kenya stock genuine units with warranty coverage.
2. Jumia Kenya — Lists multiple Redmi 17 variants with delivery across the country.
3. Local electronics shops — Outlets such as Phones and Electronics Africa and Avechi Kenya carry the device with in-store warranty support.
4. Mobile57 and similar price-comparison platforms — Useful for checking current pricing before purchase.

Always confirm warranty terms and verify the IMEI before paying, especially when buying from smaller retailers.

Xiaomi Redmi 17 Alternatives

Shoppers weighing other options have solid choices nearby:

• Redmi Note 17 — Offers an 8,000mAh battery, a 7.0-inch 120Hz AMOLED screen, and a Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 chip, appealing to buyers who want an even bigger battery.
• Redmi Note 17 Pro — Steps up with a Snapdragon 6s Gen 4 chipset, a 9,000mAh battery, and a 50MP dual rear camera setup.
• Xiaomi 17 — A compact flagship option with a 6.3-inch 120Hz AMOLED display and Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, for buyers ready to spend more.
• Xiaomi 17 Pro — Adds a 200MP triple rear camera system and 8GB RAM, targeting photography-focused users.

Final Word

The Xiaomi Redmi 17 earns its place as a dependable budget pick. Its battery life, large display, and flexible storage options make it attractive for everyday Kenyan users.

Anyone shopping in the mid-range segment this year should keep it on their shortlist.

The post Xiaomi Redmi 17 Full Specs, Price in Kenya & Alternatives 2026 appeared first on Samtash.

Airtel Kenya has entered the small business banking space with force. The telco has rolled out Bizna Wallet, a dedicated Airtel wallet built for micro and small business owners.

The move directly challenges Safaricom’s Pochi la Biashara, setting off a fresh price war in Kenya’s mobile money sector.

What Is Bizna Wallet?

Bizna Wallet is a secondary Airtel wallet designed for entrepreneurs. It keeps business income separate from personal funds.

Kiosk owners, market traders, boda boda operators, and small transport businesses stand to benefit most.

The product answers a real problem. Many traders mix personal and business cash in one mobile wallet.

That habit makes it hard to track sales or plan growth. Bizna Wallet solves this by giving every business its own space.

Key Features Traders Will Notice

Airtel built the wallet around simplicity and protection. Standout features include:

• Fund separation. Business sales stay apart from personal balances.
• Sales tracking. Owners can pull mini-statements and monitor daily income.
• Cross-network payments. The wallet accepts funds from other mobile money networks.
• Reversal protection. Business payments are shielded from unauthorized reversals.
• Zero transfer costs. Customer transfers up to KSh 250,000 attract no fee.

These features push Bizna Wallet beyond a basic mobile wallet. It functions as a lightweight business management tool.

Airtel, Safaricom Locked In Business Wallet Price War

Bizna Wallet’s arrival has intensified competition. Airtel’s zero-fee offer for transactions up to KSh 250,000 directly undercuts rival charges. Safaricom now faces pressure to match or beat those terms.

Traders benefit either way, since lower fees mean higher take-home earnings.

Analysts see this rivalry as good news for small business owners. Competition tends to shrink transaction costs and expand service quality across the mobile money ecosystem.

Airtel Money Deepens Support for Small Businesses

The Bizna Wallet launch fits into a wider Airtel Money strategy. The company is extending 50 percent cashback rewards to eligible transactions across its network.

Customers using Smarta bundles worth KES 1,000 and KES 1,500 also receive full reimbursement of transaction costs. Together, these incentives reward everyday Airtel wallet activity, not just business use.

How to Join Airtel Bizna Wallet

Getting started takes only a few steps to join Airtel Bizna wallet.

1. Dial the USSD code. Enter *334# on your phone.
2. Select Bizna Wallet. Choose the option from the menu.
3. Follow the prompts. Complete registration with your business details.
4. Or use the My Airtel App. Download the airtel apk or update your app, then register through the app menu.
5. Move funds between wallets. Transfer money between your personal wallet and Bizna Wallet as needed.

The process works for both new and existing Airtel Money customers.

Answering Common Airtel Wallet Questions

Many users search for airtel wallet login help, airtel wallet download links, or steps to check airtel wallet balance. Here is a quick guide:

• Airtel wallet login happens through the My Airtel App using your registered phone number and PIN.
• Airtel wallet app is available for airtel apk download on Android and through app stores on iOS.
• Checking your balance requires dialing *334# and selecting the balance option.
• Funding your wallet can be done via agent deposit, bank transfer, or cross-network payment.
• Airtel wallet to bank transfer is supported through the app and USSD menu.
• Airtel wallet customer care can be reached through Airtel’s official support lines for account or transaction issues.

Users in other markets, including Uganda and Zambia, also access similar Airtel money wallet services, though features may vary by country.

Airtel Life and Airtel Lite Congo remain separate offerings under the broader Airtel product family.

Read more: Mkopa Phones

Why This Matters for Kenyan SMEs

Bizna Wallet gives small business owners a practical financial tool. It brings structure to daily sales, protects earnings, and cuts transaction costs.

As competition with Safaricom sharpens, Kenyan traders gain more choice and better terms.

For a country where micro and small enterprises anchor much of the economy, that shift carries real weight.

The post Airtel Bizna Wallet Launch Challenges Safaricom (How to Join 2026) appeared first on Samtash.

A group of Nairobi youth has launched Nishukishe.com, a new website and mobile app built to help commuters navigate Kenya’s matatu industry.

The platform maps over 500 matatu routes and 3,000 bus stops across Nairobi and other major towns. It gives commuters a simple way to find the right matatus and stages, without the guesswork that often defines daily travel.

Public transport in Kenya runs mostly on shared knowledge. Commuters ask around, follow crowds, or rely on years of experience to know where to board. Nishukishe changes that.

It replaces word-of-mouth navigation with a structured digital tool built specifically for Kenyan commuters.

What Nishukishe Offers

The platform centers on three core features.

Stage Locations. Nishukishe pinpoints exact boarding points across Nairobi’s Central Business District and beyond. Commuters can identify stages like Koja, Railways, or Temple Road with precision, cutting down on time lost wandering between pick-up points.

SACCO Details. The app connects commuters to official operators serving specific neighborhoods. With routes drawn from over 70 matatu Saccos across Kenya, users get clarity on which vehicles serve their destination and who runs them.

Route Suggestions. Commuters enter where they are and where they need to go. Nishukishe responds with practical route options, helping travelers plan their journey before they even leave home.

Together, these features turn a fragmented, informal transport network into something commuters can plan around with confidence.

How to Find a Route on Nishukishe

Using the platform is straightforward. Here is how commuters can find their way:

1. Visit nishukishe.com or open the app. The tool is available on both the website and the Google Play Store.
2. Enter your starting point. This can be a neighborhood, landmark, or known stage.
3. Enter your destination. Nishukishe accepts towns, estates, and specific locations across Nairobi and other Kenyan cities like Mombasa and Kisumu.
4. Review the suggested routes. The platform displays matatu options, relevant Saccos, and boarding stages for the journey.
5. Check real-time traffic layers. Interactive map updates help commuters gauge road congestion before setting off.
6. Head to the stage. With the route confirmed, commuters can walk directly to the correct pick-up point, avoiding unnecessary detours.

The process removes much of the friction commuters face daily, particularly newcomers to Nairobi or travelers unfamiliar with a given route.

A Youth-Led Innovation With National Reach

Nishukishe was built by young Kenyan innovators who understood a everyday problem and designed a practical fix.

The team describes itself as a Kenyan collective focused on making public transport easier to navigate, blending community knowledge with transport data to reflect real movement patterns on the ground.

The platform’s ambitions extend beyond Nairobi. It already covers routes in Mombasa and Kisumu, with fare estimates and schedules included alongside route data.

This positions Nishukishe as a tool with relevance well past the capital, reaching commuters in Kenya’s other major urban centers.

Since launching, the platform has powered thousands of transport lookups, connecting commuters to verified Saccos and routes in real time.

That growth reflects a clear gap the app has filled: reliable, centralized information for a transport system that has long operated without one.

Read more: Daniel Miringa People IEBC

Why It Matters

Kenya’s matatu industry moves millions of people daily, yet it has never had a unified digital map. Nishukishe addresses that gap directly.

For daily commuters, it saves time. Also for visitors and first-time travelers, it removes confusion. For Saccos, it offers visibility to a wider pool of potential passengers.

The app is available for download on the Google Play Store, with the full route-planning tool also accessible through nishukishe.com.

As Nairobi’s transport network continues to grow more complex, tools like Nishukishe offer commuters something they have long needed: a clear, dependable way to get from one point to another.

It stands as a strong example of young Kenyans building practical technology that speaks directly to daily life.

The post Nishukishe Find Matatu Routes & Stages in Kenya appeared first on Samtash.

Apple has redefined how customers acquire premium devices. A new leasing model lets buyers use flagship products without paying full price upfront.

For Kenyan consumers watching global tech trends, this shift carries real relevance. Local rental and leasing providers already mirror the same convenience, giving Kenyans a practical path to Apple hardware.

What Is the Kenya Apple Products Lease Option?

A Kenya apple products lease allows customers to access an iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch or Mac through structured monthly payments instead of a single large purchase.

Local providers, including Apple-authorized partners, offer this service to individuals, businesses and event organizers. Devices arrive ready for personal use, corporate deployment or short-term projects.

This model suits professionals who need reliable hardware without tying up capital. It also suits businesses hosting events that require multiple devices for a limited period.

Apple Products Lease Price and Cost in Kenya

Pricing varies by device, lease duration and specification. Customers can lease eligible Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches and other Apple products, for about $18 or KSh 2,330 per month, subject to eligibility, selected device, and lease terms.

Units can also be customized with additional memory, productivity software or media editing tools, which may adjust the final apple products lease cost.

Flexible rental periods make budgeting simpler. Local delivery and pick-up options add further convenience, removing the need for in-person store visits.

Why Kenyans Are Paying Attention Now

Interest has grown following Apple’s official leasing programme launch abroad. That programme, called Apple Upgrade, lets customers lease an iPhone or Apple Watch for 12- or 24-month terms, while Mac and iPad leases run 24 to 36 months.

Though the official Apple Upgrade programme currently operates outside Kenya, it has sharpened local demand for similar flexible ownership models.

Kenyan providers already fill that gap through authorized rental channels.

Apple Replace iPhone Options

Many lease customers eventually want to replace iPhone models with newer releases. Leasing structures make this straightforward.

At the end of a lease term, customers typically choose between upgrading to a new device, purchasing the current unit outright, or returning it. This flexibility means Kenyans are no longer locked into one device for years.

Steps to Upgrade iPhone Through a Lease

Upgrading an iPhone through a lease arrangement follows a clear, manageable process:

1. Confirm eligibility. Providers assess device availability and lease qualification before enrollment.
2. Select a device and term. Choose the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch or Mac, along with a lease duration that fits your needs.
3. Customize where needed. Add memory, software or accessories to match personal or business requirements.
4. Sign the lease agreement. Review monthly payments, duration and end-of-term options.
5. Receive the device. Local delivery or pick-up completes the process quickly.
6. Use the device throughout the term. Enjoy full functionality with ongoing support from the provider.
7. Decide at term-end. Upgrade to a newer model, purchase the device, or return it and start a new lease.

This structured path makes it simple to replace iPhone units with the latest technology on a predictable schedule.

Replace iPhone With New One Smarter Ownership Cycle

Traditional ownership often means holding onto a device long after newer models launch. Leasing changes that cycle.

Customers who want to replace iPhone with new one releases can do so at each term’s conclusion, keeping pace with Apple’s innovation without repeated full-price purchases.

Businesses benefit too. Companies managing fleets of devices for staff can refresh hardware regularly, maintaining productivity and reducing long-term technology costs.

A Practical Path Forward for Kenyan Consumers

Leasing represents a meaningful shift in how Kenyans can access premium technology. A clear monthly pricing, flexible terms and straightforward upgrade paths.

The Kenya apple products lease model offers a realistic alternative to full ownership. As global interest in device leasing grows, Kenyan providers stand ready to deliver the same convenience locally.

Hence, putting the latest Apple products within easier reach for individuals and businesses alike.

The post Kenya Apple Products Lease Prices, Terms & How to Apply appeared first on Samtash.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has rolled out a new DCI multi-biometric identification system, and it is changing how fast police clearance gets processed.

What once took up to two weeks can now be completed in 24 hours.

What Is the New System?

The Multi-Biometric Identification System, known as MBIS-ABIS Version 5, was launched at DCI Headquarters in Nairobi by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen.

It replaces the older Automated Palm and Fingerprint Identification System (APFIS), which had served the country since 2016.

MBIS combines three forms of identification in one platform: fingerprints, palm prints, and facial recognition. This blend gives investigators and clearance officers a sharper, more reliable way to confirm identity.

It also strengthens Kenya’s broader criminal records management, giving courts faster access to an accused person’s history.

Why the Good Conduct 24 Hours Turnaround Matters

For years, applicants for a Certificate of Good Conduct faced long queues and unpredictable waiting periods. Job seekers, students heading abroad, and professionals renewing licenses often felt the pinch of delay.

With MBIS now active, that frustration is easing. Daily fingerprint processing capacity has jumped from 4,500 to 20,000 searches, a massive leap in efficiency.

National biometric storage has also expanded, growing from 2 million to 10 million records. Together, these upgrades mean the DCI can handle far more applications without sacrificing accuracy.

The result: most applicants can now expect their Certificate of Good Conduct within a single day, a dramatic shift from the previous two-week average.

How the System Works

Enrolment and live-capture machines are being deployed across the country, including at Huduma Centres and through eCitizen. Applicants provide fingerprints, palm prints, and a facial scan at designated points.

Manual fingerprint collection is gradually being phased out as the country embraces this fully digital approach.

The upgrade goes beyond speed. It also supports better forensic accuracy. The DCI’s Forensic Evidence Management Unit recently earned an ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) certificate.

Thus, reinforcing the credibility of Kenya’s forensic processes on an international scale.

A Step Toward Wider Integration

Officials have outlined plans to link MBIS with other key institutions, including the National Registration Bureau, Immigration Department, the Judiciary, and INTERPOL.

This inter-agency connection is designed to help authorities identify repeat offenders quickly and give courts a clearer picture of an accused person’s record during proceedings.

DCI Director Mohamed Amin has emphasized that the transition supports both service delivery and public safety.

As biometric data becomes more centralized and accessible, verification processes across government services stand to benefit.

How to Apply for Your Certificate of Good Conduct New MBIS System

1. Log in to eCitizen

Access your eCitizen account and navigate to the DCI Police Clearance (Good Conduct) section. New users will need to register first with their national ID and phone number before applying.

2. Complete the Online Application Form

Fill in your personal details accurately, including your ID number and contact information. This form feeds directly into the DCI’s system, so double-check every entry before submitting.

3. Pay the Ksh 1,050 Processing Fee

Pay through your preferred mobile money option. Keep the payment confirmation handy, as it links directly to your application record.

4. Print Your C24 Form and Receipt

Once payment is confirmed, print both the C24 form and the payment receipt. These documents are required at the biometric capture stage, so carry them along with your original ID.

5. Visit a Live-Scan Station

Head to DCI Headquarters, a select police station, or one of 52 designated Huduma Centres nationwide for biometric capture. Officers will use the new MBIS technology to record your fingerprints and facial data digitally.

6. Complete Biometric Capture

The scan itself takes just a few minutes. Unlike the old manual fingerprinting process, this step is fully digital and feeds straight into the national biometric database.

7. Receive Your Certificate Within 24 Hours

Once your biometric data is captured, processing begins immediately. Most applicants receive an SMS or email notification within 24 hours, after which the certificate can be downloaded directly from eCitizen.

Total cost: Ksh 1,050
Total time: One visit, one day

No more two-week waits, just a same-day certificate, start to finish.

What This Means for Kenyans

For everyday citizens, the takeaway is simple: getting a Certificate of Good Conduct is now faster, smoother, and more reliable.

Job applications, travel plans, and license renewals no longer need to stall while waiting on paperwork.

This modernization effort reflects a broader push within Kenya’s police services to embrace technology. As MBIS continues to roll out nationwide, more citizens will feel the benefit of a system built for speed, accuracy, and trust.

The launch of the DCI multi-biometric identification system marks a meaningful step in Kenya’s police modernization journey, one that puts convenience back in the hands of the public.

The post DCI Multi-Biometric Identification System Cuts Good Conduct Wait to 24 Hours appeared first on Samtash.

Kenya’s startup ecosystem keeps proving its strength. In the first half of 2026 alone, local ventures pulled in $157 million across 16 publicly reported funding deals. Climate tech, clean energy, and agritech sectors led the charge.

Here’s a look at Kenya’s top funded startups, what they build, and who drives them forward.

Kenya’s Top Funded Startups in 2026

Sistema.bio ➠ $53M

Sistema.bio topped the list, raising $53 million in the first half of 2026. That single round made up roughly a third of all capital raised by Kenyan startups this period.

Co-founded and led by CEO Alex Eaton, a former sustainability director at charity: water, the company designs and sells modular biodigesters that turn animal waste into biogas and organic fertilizer.

Farmers across Kenya and beyond use Sistema.bio systems to cut fuel costs and boost crop yields. The startup operates from Nairobi and reaches farmers in multiple countries, including India.

CrossBoundary Energy ➠ $40M

CrossBoundary Energy secured $40 million to expand its distributed renewable energy business. The company sits under CrossBoundary Group, co-founded by Matt Tilleard and Jake Cusack, and builds, owns, and operates solar, wind, and battery storage projects for commercial and industrial clients across Africa.

Its portfolio already covers hundreds of millions of dollars in solar assets, giving businesses cleaner and cheaper power without upfront capital costs.

Zeno ➠ $25M

Zeno, a Nairobi-based e-mobility startup, raised $25 million in Series A funding. Founded in 2022 by CEO Michael Spencer, a former Tesla executive who led Model 3 production ramp-up, the round combined equity and debt, backed by investors including Congruent Ventures and Lowercarbon Capital.

Zeno builds the Emara electric motorcycle and runs a battery-swapping network across East Africa. The new capital will help the company clear a waitlist of over 25,000 retail and fleet customers while expanding its charging infrastructure.

Victory Farms ➠ $15M

Victory Farms raised $15 million to grow its tilapia farming operations on Lake Victoria. Co-founded in 2015 by CEO Joseph Rehmann and Steve Moran, the company has grown into sub-Saharan Africa’s fastest-growing fish farm.

It supplies fresh, affordable tilapia to households and retailers through its Victory Fresh brand, aiming to deliver accessible protein to millions of Kenyans.

Mogo ➠ $6.2M

Asset financier Mogo Kenya, part of the international Eleving Group, secured Ksh 800 million, about $6.2 million, in local-currency debt from a syndicate led by I&M Bank and Ecobank.

The funding supports Mogo’s asset financing for motorcycles, vehicles, and smartphones. Shifting toward domestic funding also helps the company reduce foreign exchange risk while scaling mobility lending for Kenya’s informal sector.

ARC Ride ➠ $5M

ARC Ride raised $5 million to grow its Battery-as-a-Service model for electric motorcycles. Founded in 2019 by CEO Joseph Hurst-Croft alongside co-founder Karl Boyce.

The Nairobi-based company designs and assembles electric bikes, including the Bidii Boda and Corbett models, while running swap stations that let riders exchange batteries quickly. ARC Ride positions itself as a leading provider of clean, affordable urban mobility in Africa.

Sanivation ➠ $3.3M

Sanivation picked up $3.3 million to expand its sanitation and waste management work. Co-founded by CEO Andrew Foote and COO Emily Woods, the company partners with local governments in African secondary cities to treat fecal sludge and convert it into non-carbonized fuel briquettes.

Its Naivasha plant demonstrates how waste can become a resource rather than a public health hazard.

MyCredit ➠ $3M

MyCredit Limited raised $3 million to grow its lending and insurance services. Licensed as a Digital Credit Provider by the Central Bank of Kenya, the company offers quick loans and business financing to individuals and small enterprises.

Its management team includes experienced banking professionals guiding the firm’s growth across Nairobi and beyond.

Apollo Agriculture ➠ $2.1M

Apollo Agriculture secured $2.1 million to continue supporting small-scale farmers. Co-founded by Eli Pollak, the company uses agronomic machine learning, remote sensing, and mobile technology to help farmers access quality inputs, financing, and insurance.

Apollo Agriculture serves farmers across Kenya and Zambia, aiming to make commercial farming more profitable for smallholders.

4G Capital ➠ $2M

4G Capital raised $2 million to expand its financial services for micro and small enterprises. Founded in 2013 by Wayne Hennessy-Barrett, now the company’s Executive Chairman.

The business has supported enterprises across Africa with working capital loans and financial literacy training. Julian Mitchell took over as CEO in 2024, and the company now employs close to 1,500 people across Kenya and other African markets.

Electric Africa ➠ $698K

Electric Africa secured $698,000 in fresh funding, joining the wave of climate-tech and energy startups drawing investor attention this year.

The deal reflects growing interest in Kenya’s clean energy sector as more capital flows toward electrification projects across the region.

Jacaranda Maternity and Family Hospital ➠ $600K

Jacaranda Maternity and Family Hospital raised $600,000 to expand maternal healthcare services. The hospital chain grew out of Jacaranda Health, founded by Nick Pearson, and later spun off its hospital operations as a standalone social venture.

It now runs multiple branches across Nairobi, including Ngong Road, Umoja, and Kahawa West, offering NHIF-accredited maternity and gynecological care focused on affordability and dignity for mothers and newborns.

SokoFresh ➠ $500K

SokoFresh raised $500,000 to expand its solar-powered cold storage network. Co-founded by Denis Karema and Andrew Thinguri.

The award-winning company connects smallholder farmers, particularly avocado growers, to high-value markets. SokoFresh’s cold-storage-as-a-service model has already earned it an Ashden Award for climate innovation.

Cherehani Labs ➠ $300K

Cherehani Labs secured $300,000 to grow its network of solar-powered veterinary labs. The company delivers AI-powered animal health diagnostics to rural livestock farmers, helping extension officers and veterinary doctors collect samples and protect farmers from livestock losses.

Hakimu ➠ $200K

Hakimu, a Kenyan legal-tech startup, raised $200,000 in pre-seed funding from Madica. Co-founded by Rawan Dareer, Ahmed Ahmed, and Ahmed Elbashir.

The company builds AI-powered legal infrastructure and search tools for African judiciaries. The investment includes an 18-month growth program with executive coaching and mentorship.

SafeRide ➠ $100K

SafeRide rounded out the list with $100,000 in funding, one of several notable deals tracked in the State of Tech in Africa Report. The Kenyan startup continues building its presence in the local tech ecosystem.

The Bigger Picture

Kenya’s top funded startups this period show a clear pattern: climate, energy, and agritech dominate investor interest. From biodigesters to battery-swapping motorcycles, Kenyan founders are building solutions that tackle real problems in energy access, food security, and healthcare.

As Kenya’s startup festival season approaches and new companies continue entering the market, expect small startups in Kenya to keep pushing into these same high-growth sectors.

For job seekers, startups in Kenya hiring right now span fintech, agritech, and clean energy, offering fresh opportunities in one of Africa’s most dynamic innovation hubs.

The post Kenya’s Top Funded Startups in 2026 (16 Deals to Know) appeared first on Samtash.

Daniel Miringa, a tech expert, is the brains behind the People’s IEBC. It is a robust vote tallying system.

The platform uses artificial intelligence to scan forms sent from polling centres. It then displays each candidate’s tally within moments.

Miringa built the system with one clear goal. He wants to prevent vote rigging in Kenyan elections. His approach gives ordinary citizens a way to verify results independently. This transparency has struck a chord with many Kenyans online.

Surprisingly, the People’s IEBC has proven faster than the official IEBC website. That speed has turned heads across the country’s tech and political circles.

It has also positioned the platform as a serious tool for election accountability.

How The System Works

The People’s IEBC recently proved itself during the Ol-Kalou by-election. A total of 142 agents uploaded votes straight from polling centres.

Miringa’s system verified each form as it came in. It flagged fake submissions and confirmed genuine ones almost instantly.

Reports indicate the system verified and tallied results from 93 of 144 Forms 35A during the exercise. That coverage gave the public a real-time picture of the contest.

Kenyans could follow the numbers without waiting on official channels.

Artificial intelligence powers the entire verification process. The tallying took only seconds per form. Results appeared publicly as soon as they were confirmed.

This speed and openness set the People’s IEBC apart from traditional tallying methods.

The Man Behind The Innovation

Daniel Miringa’s academic background explains his technical edge. According to his professional profile, he studied Mechatronic Engineering at Dedan Kimathi University of Technology.

The course blends mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering skills. That combination gives him the tools to build complex, reliable systems.

Miringa is also an alumnus of Murang’a High School. His journey from a local secondary school to a national tech innovator has inspired many young Kenyans.

It shows that talent from any background can shape the country’s future.

Beyond building the People’s IEBC, Miringa shares his knowledge widely. He offers short courses to people keen on learning tech concepts. His teaching helps grow a new generation of Kenyan developers.

Many of them may one day build solutions of their own.

A Growing Movement For Election Transparency

The People’s IEBC has grown from a bold idea into a trusted tool. Its performance in Ol-Kalou has boosted confidence ahead of future elections. Many observers now see it as a model for citizen-led oversight.

Miringa has been clear about his intentions. His primary objective is not to outpace official results. Instead, he wants every Kenyan to trust the numbers behind their leaders.

That mission resonates in a country where election integrity remains a top concern.

The system’s success in Ol-Kalou offers a preview of what could come. Kenyans are already discussing its potential role in the 2027 presidential election.

A citizen-powered tallying platform could reshape how the country verifies its votes.

Why It Matters

Daniel Miringa’s work highlights the power of homegrown technology. His system shows that young Kenyan engineers can solve real national problems. The People’s IEBC stands as proof that innovation and civic duty can work together.

As more Kenyans learn about the platform, its influence is likely to grow. Miringa’s blend of technical skill and public purpose sets a strong example.

His story is one of talent, transparency, and a genuine commitment to Kenya’s democratic process.

The People’s IEBC may still be young, but its impact is already clear. It has given Kenyans a faster, more transparent way to watch their democracy in action.

Daniel Miringa’s innovation could well become a lasting fixture of the country’s electoral landscape.

The post Daniel Miringa, Brains Behind the People’s IEBC System appeared first on Samtash.

The initiative gives money straight to the poorest households, no conditions attached. It stands as the largest unconditional cash transfer program ever run in a low-income country.

The Canva co-founders launched the program in 2021 alongside nonprofit GiveDirectly. Each adult recipient receives roughly $550.

That figure may sound modest by global standards, but in rural Malawi, it is transformative. Families use the funds for food, healthcare, farming inputs, and small business ventures they choose themselves.

Canva Founders Story

The canva founders story is well known in tech circles. Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht are married co-founders who built Canva in Australia after facing more than 100 rejections from venture capitalists.

Today, Canva serves hundreds of millions of users worldwide, and its success has translated directly into large-scale philanthropy.

Canva founders net worth figures place the couple among the wealthiest self-made entrepreneurs globally, with Canva’s valuation soaring well past $40 billion.

That canva founders wealth now funds one of the most ambitious poverty-reduction experiments on the continent.

Malawi Results Point to Real Progress

The early data from the Malawi program is encouraging. Ninety percent of recipients in one target area moved above the extreme poverty line within just three months of receiving funds.

Child mortality and illness rates dropped significantly in the same period. School enrollment also rose, a sign that families used part of the money to keep children in the classroom rather than pulling them into labor.

Economists tracking the program found that every $1,000 transferred generated about $2,400 in local economic activity.

Money moved through markets, boosted small traders, and strengthened community-level commerce. Concerns that a sudden inflow of cash might trigger inflation have not been borne out. Prices in recipient areas have remained stable.

Canva Founders Philanthropy Expands Further

The Canva founders philanthropy has grown steadily since the pilot began. Canva committed an additional $100 million in 2025 to expand its partnership with GiveDirectly, extending direct cash support to another 185,000 people.

The company frames this as part of a broader “Two-Step Plan,” which pairs business growth with a fixed pledge toward ending extreme poverty in Malawi.

Cliff Obrecht has spoken publicly about the reasoning behind the scale of the commitment, describing it as a deliberate attempt to eliminate extreme poverty across an entire region rather than offer scattered, short-term relief.

That regional approach separates the Malawi initiative from smaller aid programs and gives researchers a clearer picture of what large-scale direct cash transfers can achieve.

Why the Model Matters for Africa

Malawi’s experience offers a data-backed case study for governments and donors elsewhere on the continent.

Direct cash transfers cut administrative overhead, place decision-making in the hands of recipients, and channel funds straight into local economies.

For policymakers watching Kenya, Rwanda, and other markets exploring social safety net reforms, the Malawi results provide a working template worth close attention.

The canva co-founders net worth continues to grow alongside the company’s global expansion, and Perkins and Obrecht have signaled the Malawi commitment is not a one-time gesture.

Their approach blends business success with measurable social outcomes, a combination that is increasingly shaping how tech wealth engages with African development.

As the program matures, GiveDirectly and Canva plan to publish further data on longer-term outcomes, including income stability, health indicators, and education gains.

For now, the numbers already on record. Poverty reduction, falling child mortality, rising school attendance, and a strong local economic multiplier. Thus, make the Malawi initiative one of the most closely watched philanthropic experiments in Africa today.

The post Canva Founders Bet $150 Million on Ending Poverty in Malawi appeared first on Samtash.

French media giant Canal+ has officially completed its acquisition of MultiChoice Group in a landmark transaction valued at approximately $3 billion (R55 billion) about KSh 438.4 billion.

The deal marks the successful conclusion of a multi-year takeover process that has made MultiChoice, the parent company of DStv, GOtv, Showmax, and SuperSport, a wholly owned subsidiary of Canal+.

The acquisition is one of the largest media transactions in Africa in recent years. It positions the combined business to expand its presence across the continent while strengthening investment in local entertainment, sports broadcasting, and streaming services.

For many consumers asking has MultiChoice been sold, the answer is now yes. Following the completion of all regulatory approvals and equity transitions, Canal+ has officially assumed full ownership of MultiChoice.

Canal+ Completes MultiChoice Acquisition

The Canal+ MultiChoice transaction follows years of strategic investment by the French broadcaster.

Canal+ had gradually increased its shareholding in MultiChoice before launching a mandatory offer of R125 per share to public investors.

The company had already acquired about 45 percent of MultiChoice before finalizing the buyout.

With the transaction complete, MultiChoice joins Canal+, an international media company operating in more than 70 countries.

Canal+ is listed on both the London Stock Exchange and the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, giving the combined group a stronger international footprint.

The integration creates new opportunities for collaboration across television, streaming, sports, and film production while maintaining MultiChoice’s established brands throughout Africa.

Who Owns MultiChoice Now?

Many people have been asking who bought MultiChoice, who is the current owner of MultiChoice, and who is the new owner of DStv.

The answer is straightforward. Canal+ is now the owner of MultiChoice Group. Since DStv, GOtv, Showmax, SuperSport, and M-Net operate under MultiChoice, these platforms are now part of the Canal+ Group.

This means anyone wondering has DStv been sold can now confirm that its parent company is officially owned by Canal+.

What the MultiChoice Sale Means for DStv and GOtv Subscribers

The ownership change does not immediately alter how customers access DStv, GOtv, or Showmax services. Subscribers will continue using their existing packages, customer support channels, and payment systems.

Instead, the acquisition focuses on long-term growth and content development. Canal+ has outlined plans to strengthen Showmax, improve streaming capabilities, and expand investment in African storytelling.

The company also intends to increase the production of local television shows, films, documentaries, and sports programming.

These investments are expected to provide more opportunities for African creators while delivering diverse entertainment to viewers.

Why the Canal+ MultiChoice Deal Matters

The MultiChoice sold to Canal+ transaction reflects the growing importance of African media within the global entertainment industry.

By combining Canal+’s international experience with MultiChoice’s strong African presence, the new group aims to compete more effectively in the evolving streaming and broadcasting market.

The acquisition also supports greater collaboration across Europe, Africa, and Asia. This could help accelerate technology innovation, expand premium content offerings, and create new partnerships across the entertainment sector.

A New Chapter for MultiChoice

The completion of the Canal+ acquires MultiChoice deal represents a significant milestone for one of Africa’s largest entertainment companies.

The transaction provides MultiChoice with additional financial strength, international expertise, and broader market access.

While ownership has changed, the company’s commitment to African audiences remains central to its strategy. With continued investment in DStv, GOtv, Showmax, and local productions, MultiChoice enters a new phase focused on innovation, sustainable growth, and delivering high-quality entertainment across the continent.

The post MultiChoice Sold to Canal+, what the $3 Billion DStv Acquisition Means appeared first on Samtash.

Meta has officially introduced Muse Spark 1.1, the latest version of its advanced artificial intelligence model designed for coding, reasoning, computer use, and multimodal tasks.

The new release builds on the original Muse Spark and delivers significant improvements in speed, accuracy, efficiency, and developer experience.

Muse Spark 1.1 is now available in public preview through the Meta Model API, allowing developers to test its capabilities and build AI-powered applications.

What is Muse Spark 1.1?

Muse Spark 1.1 is Meta’s newest multimodal reasoning AI model. It is designed to understand and work with different types of information, including text, images, and software tools.

Unlike traditional AI assistants that mainly answer questions, Muse Spark 1.1 focuses on agentic AI workflows.

This means it can plan tasks, use tools, write code, review software, and complete multi-step objectives with minimal human guidance.

The model represents a major milestone in Meta’s growing AI ecosystem and supports businesses, developers, researchers, and enterprises building intelligent applications.

Key Features of Muse Spark 1.1

Meta has introduced several important upgrades in Muse Spark 1.1.

Some of the biggest improvements include:

• Better coding performance across multiple programming languages.
• Stronger multimodal reasoning using both text and visual inputs.
• Improved computer and tool use for complex workflows.
• Faster response times with lower latency.
• Higher accuracy during multi-step reasoning tasks.
• Enhanced planning and task orchestration.
• Optimized cost for developers using the Meta Model API.

These improvements make Muse Spark 1.1 suitable for software development, automation, productivity tools, research assistants, and enterprise AI systems.

Muse Spark AI for Developers

One of the biggest highlights of the release is its focus on developers.

The Muse Spark API enables developers to integrate the model into their own products and services. It can generate code, review existing software, explain technical concepts, and assist with debugging.

Meta says the updated model requires fewer interaction steps to complete coding tasks, helping developers work more efficiently while reducing development time.

The API is currently available in public preview for eligible developers through Meta’s developer platform.

How to Use Muse Spark

Developers can access Muse Spark through the Meta Model API after joining the public preview.

Once connected, the model can power:

• AI coding assistants
• Software review bots
• Research tools
• Business automation platforms
• Enterprise productivity solutions
• Intelligent customer support systems

Meta also plans broader integration across its AI products, expanding the model’s reach to more users over time.

Is Muse Spark Open Source?

At present, Muse Spark 1.1 is not open source.

Meta is offering access through its Model API rather than releasing the model weights publicly. While discussions continue within the AI community about future open-source versions, Meta has not announced plans to fully open-source Muse Spark 1.1.

Is Muse Spark Free?

Muse Spark 1.1 is available through the Meta Model API with pricing designed to remain competitive for developers and businesses.

Developers can access the public preview and evaluate the model before deploying it into production environments.

Muse Spark Download

There is no standalone Muse Spark download.

Instead, developers access the model through Meta’s cloud-based API. This approach ensures users always receive the latest version without installing software locally.

Muse Spark AI Chat and Apps

Muse Spark also powers Meta’s broader AI strategy. Its technology is expected to enhance AI experiences across Meta services and future intelligent applications.

Developers can build their own Muse Spark AI chat experiences, productivity assistants, and business tools using the available API.

Final Thoughts

Muse Spark 1.1 marks another significant step in Meta’s AI development strategy. With stronger reasoning, improved coding capabilities, advanced multimodal understanding, and efficient agentic workflows, the model offers developers a powerful platform for building next-generation AI applications.

As Meta continues expanding its AI ecosystem, Muse Spark 1.1 is positioned to play an important role in software development, enterprise automation, and intelligent digital assistants, making it one of the company’s most capable AI models to date.

The post Meta Muse Spark 1.1 Features, API, AI Model & How It Works appeared first on Samtash.