Kenya Interviews

List of all articles filed under “kenya-interviews” category.

James Odongo of KEPRO: Pioneering Kenya’s Circular Economy Through EPR and Recycling Innovation

June 14, 2025

In this interview with James Odongo, CEO of KEPRO (Kenya Extended Producer Responsibility Organisation), he outlines how the organisation is spearheading Kenya’s transition to a circular economy through regulatory alignment, recycling innovation, and strategic public engagement.

Founded in response to the 2017 plastic bag ban in Kenya, KEPRO was established as a special purpose vehicle to help producers take full environmental responsibility for the post-consumption lifecycle of their products. With over 1,000 member companies and close collaboration with the Kenya Association of Manufacturers, KEPRO plays a central role in the implementation of the Sustainable Waste Management Act and EPR regulations introduced in 2024.

Odongo explains that KEPRO’s primary mission is to future-proof business models by encouraging adoption of circular business practices and ensuring compliance with evolving environmental laws. The organization addresses major hurdles such as the cost of compliance, helping members manage financial contributions through a technology-enabled EPR platform that ensures real-time data access and transparency.

With a clear focus on digital transformation, KEPRO has moved beyond manual filing to an interactive compliance system that supports self-declaration, helping reduce administrative burden and increase data confidentiality, especially among competitor-member companies.

Looking ahead to 2025, KEPRO expects growth in collection subsidies, technology investment, and waste compliance support. These budgets are directly tied to partnerships with waste management operators and recyclers, as KEPRO strengthens recycling ecosystems and champions recyclable packaging design. Odongo highlighted the shift by brands like Sprite from green to clear plastic bottles as a positive example of end-of-life product management aligned with recycling goals.

To drive consumer behavior change, KEPRO deploys a mixed communication strategy using digital campaigns, grassroots engagement, social dialogues, and community influencers to reinforce its message: “My waste is my responsibility.” This call to action urges all Kenyans to embrace waste segregation, proper bin use, and active citizenship in building a clean and healthy environment.

KEPRO’s three-year vision is to cement its leadership as Kenya’s premier producer responsibility organization, outpacing competition while scaling its partnerships and environmental impact. At the heart of its strategy lies a commitment to ESG, public-private collaboration, and ensuring that Kenyan businesses remain sustainable, competitive, and compliant in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.

Silafrica’s Akshay Shah on MSME Support, Circular Packaging, and Sustainable Growth in Africa’s Packaging Industry

June 7, 2025

In this exclusive interview, Akshay Shah, Group Executive Director of Silafrica, explores how the company is leading the way in sustainable packaging in Kenya and across Africa. As a founding member of KEPRO (Kenya Extended Producer Responsibility Organization), Silafrica champions circular economy packaging, using post-consumer (PCR) and post-industrial recycled materials (PIR) in over 36% of its output. The company partners with multinationals like Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Heineken, and Unilever to deliver rigid plastic packaging, recyclable beverage crates, and IoT-enabled production systems (ThinkTracks). Shah also highlights the critical role of MSMEs in Africa’s packaging supply chain, outlining strategies to aggregate demand and finance packaging solutions for small-scale producers. From custom yogurt cup printing to cross-border reusable crate systems, Silafrica is redefining what it means to build a scalable, circular, and inclusive packaging industry in Africa.

Inside RFH Healthcare: Dr. Maxwell Okoth on PET-CT Scans, Lutetium Therapy, and Cancer Care in Kenya

March 23, 2025

In this exclusive interview, Marcopolis speaks with Dr. Maxwell Okoth , a visionary entrepreneur and the founder and Group Managing Director of RFH Healthcare , one of the fastest-growing healthcare networks in Kenya. Dr. Okoth shares insights into the evolution of RFH from a modest clinic to a trailblazing medical institution , addressing the urgent need for affordable healthcare in Kenya . He discusses the critical role of the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF) , the transition from NHIF to SHIF , and Kenya’s journey toward universal health coverage .

comprehensive offering as one of the few healthcare providers offering comprehensive cancer care in Kenya , RFH is leading the charge with innovative treatments such as PET-CT scans , lutetium therapy for prostate cancer , and brachytherapy . Dr. Okoth also touches on the importance of medical imaging services , minimally invasive surgery , and access to advanced radiotherapy machines in transforming oncology services.

EngPlan Consulting Engineers: Pioneering Structural and Civil Engineering Excellence in Kenya

December 3, 2024

EngPlan Consulting Engineers, a leading Kenyan engineering firm, has established itself as a key player in Kenya’s civil engineering sector since its inception in 2006. With expertise in structural engineering, the firm has expanded to include water and wastewater engineering, master planning, and logistics and warehousing projects. EngPlan is at the forefront of engineering innovation in Kenya, focusing on structural optimization to enhance sustainability by reducing material waste and carbon footprints.

The company has contributed to significant affordable housing projects in Kenya, as well as youth housing initiatives, responding to growing demands in the private and government sectors. Kenya’s infrastructure development remains a priority, with EngPlan participating in transformative civil works that address critical needs, such as water and sanitation.

Looking ahead, EngPlan has ambitious goals for regional growth, including venturing into the DRC and Rwanda. They aim to leverage partnerships in African engineering and expand their service offerings to include mechanical and electrical solutions, solidifying their reputation as a one-stop shop for engineering. Succession planning and mentorship are also integral to their vision, ensuring a pipeline of skilled engineers to sustain the firm’s success.

With a track record of delivering innovative solutions for clients like USIU University and Acorn Holdings, EngPlan continues to shape Kenya’s engineering landscape, positioning itself as a trusted partner in civil engineering trends across Eastern Africa.

How AquaRech is Revolutionizing Aquaculture in Kenya with Digital Technology

November 16, 2024

AquaRech, a leading aquaculture technology company founded in 2019 by Dave Okech, is revolutionizing fish farming in Kenya and beyond through innovative solutions tailored to address critical challenges faced by smallholder fish farmers. Leveraging a digital platform powered by mobile app technology, AquaRech bridges gaps in the aquaculture sector by providing farmers with high-quality fish feeds, credit financing, market access, and technical support. The AquaRech Fish Farmer app, accessible through both smartphone and USSD versions, empowers farmers with tools to monitor fish growth, track feed usage, and connect with a structured fish market through a unique buyback system. Additionally, the AquaRech Fish Deli app caters to consumers, offering doorstep delivery of air-fried Kenyan farmed tilapia, showcasing the company’s commitment to vertical integration.

AquaRech’s innovative solutions, such as the “buy now, pay later” financing model, help farmers access critical inputs like feed, enabling them to reduce production time from 16 months to 8 months and achieve a 40% increase in productivity. The integration of IoT water temperature sensors and real-time performance tracking further enhances precision farming. AquaRech not only supports sustainable fish farming practices but also aims to transition smallholder farmers into commercially profitable ventures. With over 6,000 farmers on its platform and a goal to scale to 10,000 by next year, the company is set to make a significant impact on the aquaculture industry in Kenya and expand its reach to East Africa, including Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda.

Having raised nearly $3 million in funding through seed rounds, grants, and debt financing, AquaRech is poised for rapid growth. The company’s ambitious Series A funding round, targeting $8 to $10 million, will focus on scaling credit financing, enhancing production systems, and increasing market access for farmers. By addressing overfishing, declining fish stocks, and Africa’s growing protein demand, AquaRech positions itself as a key player in the sustainable transformation of aquaculture in sub-Saharan Africa. Through its digital solutions and strategic partnerships with organizations like Equity Bank, AquaRech is ensuring that fish farming is not just viable but profitable for thousands of smallholder farmers.

Unlocking Africa’s Agricultural Potential: How Brazafric Group Leads in Regenerative Farming Insights from CEO Marcos Brandalise

November 12, 2024

This interview with Marcos Brandalise, the Founder and CEO of Brazafric Group of Companies (BGC), dives into the company’s impactful journey within Africa’s agriculture sector. With over three decades of experience in Kenya, Brandalise shares Brazafric’s mission to foster sustainable growth and development across Africa by providing specialized agricultural equipment, farm management, and consultancy services. Brazafric Group, with its Brazil-Africa synergy, leverages tropical agriculture expertise to introduce innovative regenerative agriculture practices, like conservation agriculture, aimed at promoting carbon sequestration, sustainable water management, and bio-based inputs. This approach supports soil regeneration and addresses Africa’s food security needs.

Brandalise discusses Brazafric’s holistic, environmentally friendly approach, which includes working with smallholder farmers to ensure their integration into larger agricultural initiatives. With ongoing farm development projects and partnerships with foreign investors and Italian equipment manufacturers, Brazafric aims to drive local production and reduce import dependency. Emphasizing industrialization and the importance of creating market opportunities in Africa, Brandalise highlights how Brazafric’s equipment distribution has captured significant market share across East and Central Africa. The interview sheds light on Brazafric’s commitment to Africa’s agricultural future, focusing on empowering African investors and supporting sustainable practices that protect local ecosystems.

Financial Independence for Kenyans: Jonathan Asena’s Vision for Kimisitu Sacco

November 5, 2024

In this engaging interview, Jonathan Asena, the Marketing and Business Development Manager at Kimisitu Sacco, delves into the cooperative’s mission and milestones. With a history spanning nearly 40 years, Kimisitu Sacco stands out in Kenya’s financial landscape, now serving over 14,000 members across 70 countries. Known for its dedication to digital transformation, Kimisitu offers services that extend far beyond traditional savings and loans. Jonathan discusses the Sacco’s emphasis on affordable credit, financial literacy, and housing solutions, as well as its commitment to supporting Kenyans both locally and abroad. Discover how Kimisitu Sacco is empowering individuals and making financial independence accessible to a global Kenyan community.

Exclusive Interview: Shaileen Jiwa on Luxury Hospitality at Gem Forest Hotel Nairobi

September 12, 2024

In this exclusive interview, Shaileen Jiwa, the General Manager of Gem Forest Hotel in Nairobi, shares insights into the luxury hospitality industry and the unique aspects that make Gem Forest Hotel a standout destination. As the flagship MGallery hotel in Africa, the property combines elegant design, personalized experiences, and a deep commitment to storytelling. Shaileen discusses the evolving trends in Nairobi’s tourism, the hotel’s focus on corporate and leisure travelers, and her passion for creating memorable, one-of-a-kind guest experiences.

Redefining Luxury: Jigar and Dil Patel on the Vision Behind Gem Forest Hotel Nairobi – MGallery Collection

August 14, 2024

In this insightful interview, Jigar and Dil Patel, Project Development Directors at Jit Group, share the journey and vision behind the establishment of the Gem Forest Hotel Nairobi, part of the prestigious MGallery Collection. The discussion highlights the Patel brothers’ deep-rooted passion for hospitality, their innovative approach to sustainable luxury, and the unique design elements that set their boutique hotel apart in Nairobi’s vibrant and growing hospitality sector. Their commitment to excellence, sustainability, and creating memorable guest experiences shines through as they discuss the hotel’s development, its distinctive features, and future plans.

East Africa Brazil: Bridging Brazilian Expertise and African Agriculture for Sustainable Development

August 2, 2024

In this interview, we delve into the visionary efforts of João Ramos, Managing Partner at East Africa Brazil International. Ramos explains the initiative’s core concept of leveraging Brazilian expertise to enhance infrastructure and agricultural sectors in Africa, beginning with Kenya. The focus is on implementing regenerative agriculture practices to improve soil quality, diversify crops, and promote sustainable farming techniques. By engaging local landowners and providing comprehensive training, East Africa Brazil International aims to transform agriculture into a lucrative and appealing career for the youth, thereby fostering economic self-sufficiency and food security for smallholder farmers.

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