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Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Series: Unveiling Features, Pricing, and Exclusive Offers in Kenya

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Series: Unveiling Features, Pricing, and Exclusive Offers in Kenya

Xiaomi has launched the highly anticipated Redmi Note 14 series in Kenya with new features and improved durability across all models. Building on the success of Redmi Note 13 series, this is a big leap forward in technology, design and user experience.

Unbeatable Durability and Build

Redmi Note 14 series has All-Star Armor Structure, can withstand drops from 180cm height on marble and wood surfaces. Key features:

  • Redmi Note 14 Pro+: Front Gorilla Glass Victus 2, Back Gorilla Glass 7i, Aluminum frame, IP68 water and dust resistant
  • Redmi Note 14 Pro: Front Gorilla Glass Victus 2, IP64 water and dust resistant
  • Base Model (Redmi Note 14): Gorilla Glass 5

Pro+ also has a display that can reach 3000 nits peak brightness and Dolby Atmos stereo speakers.

Performance and Software

Redmi Note 14 series has big performance upgrades:

  • Redmi Note 14 Pro+: Snapdragon 7s Gen 3
  • Redmi Note 14 Pro: Helio G100 Ultra
  • Base Model (Redmi Note 14): Helio G99 Ultra

All models run on Android 14 with HyperOS and gets 3 major Android updates.

Camera Systems

Series has big camera upgrades:

  • Selfie Cameras: Pro+ and base models now has 20MP (up from 16MP), Pro model has 32MP.
  • Main Cameras: 14 Pro has 200MP camera for high res photography

AI features like Circle to Search, AI Background Removal, AI Image Expansion.

Battery Life

Xiaomi has increased battery capacity across the series:

  • Redmi Note 14 Pro+: 5110mAh
  • Pro and Base Models: 5500mAh

These batteries have extended usage and fast charging.

Pricing in Kenya

Redmi Note 14 series has options for all budgets:

  • Redmi Note 14 Pro+:
  • 8/256GB: Ksh 52,999
  • 12/512GB: Ksh 62,999
  • Redmi Note 14 Pro: Ksh 34,999
  • Base Model (14 Pro+ 5G):
  • 8/128GB: Ksh 21,999
  • 8/256GB: Ksh 25,999

AIoT Products and Accessories

Xiaomi also launched AIoT product lineup with tablets and accessories:

  • Tablets:
  • Redmi Pad SE 8.7″: Ksh 14,999
  • Redmi Pad SE FHD+: Ksh 19,499
  • Redmi Pad Pro 5G: Ksh 39,999
  • Accessories:
  • Xiaomi Smart Band 9 Active: Ksh 2,999
  • Redmi Watch 5 Active: Ksh 3,999
  • Redmi Buds 6 Series: Ksh 1,899

Exclusive Customer Benefits

Xiaomi has got you covered with these benefits for Kenyan customers:

  • 24+1 month warranty
  • 3 months of free 100GB Google One storage (for first buyers).
  • 6 months free screen replacement.

Some models comes with free gifts like Redmi Watch 5 Active or Redmi Buds 6 Active.

With the Redmi Note 14 series and other products, Xiaomi is definitely here to stay in Kenya.

Kenya’s Proposed Regulations for Crypto Companies: Local Offices and Leadership

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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Kenya’s Proposed Regulations for Crypto Companies: Local Offices and Leadership

Kenya to tighten rules for crypto firms. The draft Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill, 2025, by the National Treasury requires crypto companies to have a local presence and a Kenyan as CEO.

Key Points

  1. Physical Presence Mandatory
    Crypto companies must have an office in Kenya as part of their licensing requirements. This is to protect consumers, the financial system and stability.
  2. Local CEOs
    Firms will be required to appoint a Chief Executive Officer approved by regulators such as the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) or the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) to run the day to day operations. This is similar to the banking and capital markets sectors.
  3. Regulatory Oversight
    CMA and CBK will define the eligibility criteria for these positions to ensure experienced people lead local operations.

Other African Countries

Similar regulations already exist in countries like South Africa and Mauritius where virtual asset service providers are required to have a local presence.

Current Gaps in Crypto Regulation

Many crypto companies operating in Kenya, including exchanges, brokers and wallet service providers do not have physical offices or local executives. This new regulation will address these gaps and bring the sector under more scrutiny.

Broader Digital Market Regulation

Kenya’s push for physical presence is not limited to crypto companies.

  • In 2023, the Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) asked food delivery platforms Glovo and Uber Eats to have local offices.
  • Social media companies were also asked to have a physical presence to combat platform abuse.

For Crypto Companies

The new rules will increase costs for crypto firms as they will have to:

  • Have an office in Kenya.
  • Hire local leadership.
  • Go through Kenyan regulator approval process.

Going Forward

While the regulations will protect consumers and strengthen Kenya’s financial system, some crypto companies may be deterred by the increased costs. But proponents argue it will bring accountability and make Kenya a more attractive destination for digital finance.

New ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo Pledges to Drive Kenya’s Digital Transformation

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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New ICT Cabinet Secretary William Kabogo Pledges to Drive Kenya’s Digital Transformation

The new Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications and The Digital Economy, William Kabogo has outlined his plans to drive Kenya’s digital transformation. He has promised to digitize government services so services are efficient, accessible and timely.

Full Digitization

At the handover ceremony at the Ministry’s offices in Nairobi, Kabogo said the Ministry will aim to digitize 100% of its operations before digitizing all government services. He noted this is key to the Digital Superhighway and Kenya’s Digital Economy.

“We will serve Kenyans in time and in efficiency through digital tools,” Kabogo said.

Responsible Use of Social Media and Data Protection

Kabogo emphasized the need to use social media responsibly and respect constitutional freedoms. He urged Kenyans to use the platforms for positive messaging that impacts society, balance freedom of expression with ethical communication.

To build trust in the digital space he promised to strengthen the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) to ensure that:

  • Citizens know their data rights.
  • Data protection laws will be enforced to protect privacy.
  • “Data must be used positively and ethically to underpin trust and accountability in the digital economy,” Kabogo added.

Collaboration and Transparency

The outgoing Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi said transparency and accountability in communication is key to keeping citizens informed about government policies and programmes. Mudavadi also urged for more digitalization of education and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

“Let’s position Kenya as a tech and tourism leader and grow our global reputation and economy,” he said.

Mudavadi also asked media and private sector to be accountable and use their platforms to market Kenya as a regional innovation and development hub.

Technology for Socio-Economic Growth

Both Kabogo and Mudavadi said technology will drive Kenya’s socio-economic growth. They asked for:

  • More AI innovations to creativity and efficiency.
  • Impactful and sustainable projects through technology.
  • Public private sector collaboration to boost Kenya’s competitiveness.

Attendees and Next

The event was attended by ministry officials including Prof. Edward Kisiang’ani and Eng. John Tanui. Kabogo’s appointment is a big step towards aligning Kenya’s ICT strategy with the global trends for a digital future.

Religious Leaders Encouraged to Promote Social Health Authority (SHA) Registration

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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Religious Leaders Encouraged to Promote Social Health Authority (SHA) Registration

Church leaders in Kenya have been asked to encourage their members to register for the Social Health Authority (SHA). National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula told clergy to prioritize registration during church services, saying it’s for healthcare development.

Registration During Church

At an interdenominational prayer meeting in Bungoma, Wetang’ula said the SHA is important and asked leaders to register their members every Sunday or Sabbath day. He said it’s free and no hidden costs for Kenyans.

“Register and be part of Taifa Care. It’s free. The money will go to hospitals, doctors and equipment,” Wetang’ula said.

He asked bishops and other church leaders to facilitate the process by appointing someone to oversee registration before church starts.

SHA Benefits

SHA is part of Kenya’s efforts to build healthcare infrastructure and access to quality healthcare. The money will be used for:

  • Building and upgrading hospitals.
  • Buying modern medical equipment.
  • Supporting healthcare workers.

Kenya Kwanza Government

Wetang’ula also assured the Western region will support President William Ruto’s government. He said they will be cooperative, saying the government is working to improve the country as a whole.

“We will not give you headache like the other regions. Carrying a country like Kenya is heavy, but we believe in you,” Wetang’ula said.

He is optimistic about the country under Ruto, acknowledging the legacy issues but commending the steps being taken to address them.

“He will leave Kenya better than he found it because of what he is doing,” he said.

Endnote

Wetang’ula’s call shows the government is going all out to mobilize at grassroots level for SHA. The support of religious leaders and their members will be key to achieving the programme’s goals so that every Kenyan benefits from healthcare.

Safaricom’s Updated M-Pesa Charges and Policies for 2025

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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Safaricom’s Updated M-Pesa Charges and Policies for 2025

Safaricom has updated M-Pesa transaction charges for 2025 to address fairness and emerging challenges in mobile money. The new charges aim to harmonize costs across networks, improve customer experience and security.

Key Changes:

  1. Unified Transfer Charges:
  • Transfers to Airtel Money and Telkom’s T-Kash will now be charged the same as Safaricom to Safaricom.
  • For example, sending Ksh1,000 will cost Ksh13 regardless of the recipient’s network.
  1. Discontinued Transfers to Unregistered Users:
  • Due to fraud and money laundering risks, sending to unregistered users has been stopped.
  1. Transaction Limits:
  • Maximum per transaction: Ksh250,000
  • Daily transaction and balance limit: Ksh500,000

M-Pesa Transaction Charges

Transfer and Withdrawal Charges

Transaction Range (KSHS)To M-Pesa Users & Other Mobile MoneyWithdrawal from M-Pesa Agent
1 – 49FreeN/A
50 – 100Free11
101 – 500729
501 – 1,0001329
1,001 – 1,5002329
1,501 – 2,5003329
2,501 – 3,5005352
3,501 – 5,0005769
5,001 – 7,5007887
7,501 – 10,00090115
10,001 – 15,000100167
15,001 – 20,000105185
20,001 – 35,000108197
35,001 – 50,000108278
50,001 – 250,000108309

ATM Withdrawal Tariffs

Min (KSHS)Max (KSHS)Charge (KSHS)
2002,50035
2,5015,00069
5,00110,000115
10,00135,000203

Free Services:

  • Deposits: Free.
  • M-Pesa Registration: Free.
  • Buying Airtime via M-Pesa: Free.
  • Balance Inquiry and PIN Changes: Free.

Policies and Guidelines

  1. Self-Reversals:
  • Send the transaction confirmation to 456 for a self-reversal.
  1. Documentation for Transactions:
  • Accepted for deposits and withdrawals:
  • Kenyan Passports and National IDs.
  • Foreign Passports, Military IDs and Foreigner Certificates.
  1. Agent Outlet Registration Restrictions:
  • Only Kenyan Passports and National IDs are accepted at agent outlets.
  • Foreign documents are accepted only at Safaricom Shops and Care Desks.
  1. Customer Support:
  • PrePay customers: 100.
  • PostPay customers: 200.
  • USSD: *234#

These changes are to simplify mobile money and ensure fairness and security.

Nakuru County Implements Digitized Land Information System to Combat Fraud

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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Nakuru County Implements Digitized Land Information System to Combat Fraud

Nakuru County in partnership with Financial Sector Deepening Kenya (FSD Kenya) is launching a state of the art Land Information Management System (LIMS) to address the increasing cases of fraud and inefficiency in land transactions. This is in line with the county’s vision of being a well planned and sustainably developed urban centre.

Why LIMS is a winner

The new system will revolutionize land administration by centralizing data and eliminating manual processes prone to corruption and human error. According to Housing and Urban Development Chief Officer Engineer Kimani Kuria LIMS will allow all land transactions to be done online through an official website. This will be transparent and accountable and reduce fraud opportunities.

LIMS Features and Benefits

  1. Accessibility and Efficiency
  • Residents can do transactions online:
  • Search land ownership records.
  • Verify land titles.
  • Transfer ownership.
  • Pay land rates.
  • Upload receipts and download rent clearance certificates.
  • No more paper based systems, time and taxpayer money saved.
  1. Data Integration
  • Combines spatial data (geographic information) with non-spatial data (ownership, zoning) to create a land database.
  • Tracks ownership, land use and zoning for better urban planning and resource allocation.
  1. Urban Planning and Decision Making
  • Informed decisions on infrastructure, housing and public services.
  • Revitalize neglected urban centers across the 11 sub-counties.
  1. Fraud Prevention
  • File tracking and minimize human interference, reduce corruption risks.
  • A secure platform for land transactions.
  1. Alignment to Vision 2030
  • Supports Kenya’s Vision 2030 which identifies proper land administration and management as a key driver to national development.

Collaboration and Customization

Nakuru County worked with planners, surveyors, ICT experts and consultants from Digireg-Kenya to ensure the system meets the county’s needs. LIMS is customized to address the challenges of a growing population and increasing demand for land use.

Nakuru as a Model Urban Centre

The launch of LIMS is part of Nakuru’s vision to be a model for sustainable urban development in Kenya. By simplifying transactions, being transparent and enabling resource management the county is setting the pace for others.

Next

As the system goes live, Nakuru residents can expect smoother, faster and more reliable land services. With less fraud, more accountability and better urban planning LIMS will be a game changer in Nakuru land management.

This initiative not only enhances service delivery but also positions Nakuru as a forward-thinking county committed to leveraging technology for development.

KRA Cuts Fringe Benefits Tax to 13% as CBK Lowers Lending Rates to Stimulate Economic Growth

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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KRA Cuts Fringe Benefits Tax to 13% as CBK Lowers Lending Rates to Stimulate Economic Growth

KRA has reduced the tax rate for employee welfare benefits, including fringe benefits and deemed interest rates, in line with the recent CBK rate cut. This is to boost economic activity and encourage private sector credit uptake.

Highlights:

  1. Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT):
  • 13% for January to March 2025. Lowest since December 2023.
  • 16% from April 2024. Previously 15%.
  • Applies to loans offered by employers at below market rates, tax calculated on the difference between market interest and actual interest paid.
  1. Deemed Interest Rate Adjustments:
  • Also 13% for the same three months, 15% withholding tax, payable within 5 working days.
  1. Employers and Employees:
  • Employers to remit FBT on benefits monthly, by 9th of the following month.
  • Loans beyond employment are taxed until repaid, current and former employees affected.
  1. CBK:
  • Reduced the base rate to 11.25% in December 2024.
  • The MPC has asked banks to lower lending rates by the same margin as the CBR to boost private sector credit.
  1. Economic Stimulus:
  • The tax changes are part of the broader fiscal policy alignment with monetary easing to make credit more affordable and accessible.
  1. Next:
  • CBK meets on February 5, 2025 to review the indicative rate. Expect more cuts.

Kenyan Government Responds to Citizen Emails Seeking Cancellation of Dutch King’s Visit

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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Kenyan Government Responds to Citizen Emails Seeking Cancellation of Dutch King’s Visit

The Kenyan government has responded to the unusual wave of emails sent to the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs by Kenyans calling for the cancellation of King Willem-Alexander’s visit to Kenya. On Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs termed the actions as cyberbullying aimed at undermining the government’s credibility.

Government’s Statement on Cyber Activities

The email campaign and other online activities are a continuation of the June 2024 Gen Z protests and have since morphed into organized cyber campaigns. The statement reads:

  1. Activities:
  • AI deepfakes and fabricated stories.
  • Disinformation campaigns against foreign governments and international bodies.
  • Auto-generated emails by social media influencers.
  1. Objectives of the Campaign:
  • To discredit government programs.
  • To block high-level visits like the Dutch King.
  • To stop Kenya from getting international and regional positions.
  • To intimidate the international community.

Government to International Partners

The Ministry has assured that measures are being put in place to address this.

  • Technology Responsibility Charter: To develop a framework for accountability and ethical practices in the Kenyan digital space.
  • Diplomats: The Ministry has assured diplomatic missions, UN agencies and international organizations that it will address any issues raised by these campaigns.

Dutch Ministry’s Response

NOS reported that the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs received over 300 emails from Kenyans. The emails raised concerns on:

  • Human rights abuses.
  • Abductions and disappearances of government critics.

But the Dutch Ministry has not cancelled King Willem-Alexander’s visit, so it seems they are taking a measured approach.

The Background: Frustration and Digital Activism

The email campaign is a manifestation of growing anger among Kenyans over government actions, particularly on human rights and governance.

  • June 2024 Protests: The Gen Z protests against the Finance Bill were the straw that broke the camel’s back for online activism.
  • AI and Social Media: Activists are using AI to amplify their campaigns making it harder to track and counter.

What’s to come?

As the government tackles cyber campaigns, it has to balance freedom of expression with responsible digital practices. The Technology Responsibility Charter will be key in addressing these issues while protecting citizens’ right to dissent.

Meanwhile, the international community will be closely monitoring how Kenya navigates these digital protests and their broader implications for its governance and global reputation.

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