A few days ago reports emerged that Kiharu MP and a close friend of President William Ruto had increased his stock share at KPLC and the result as expected was an increased interest in both retail and institutional traders. And now even before 100 days are over, the president was at the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) advocating for listing of companies and encouraging more youths to invest/trade.

This is nothing new. With new leadership, there are always new investment opportunities. So before we look at industries that are posed to do well, lets look back at what happened during former regimes.

The Kibaki Legacy

The last time we had a lot of interest in the NSE was during former president Kibaki's tenure. President Kibaki privatised six companies including Kengen, Kenya Re, Mumias Sugar and Safaricom.

Apart from Safaricom, two companies really bloomed during his tenure. Transcentury and East African Cables. This did not come as a surprise since the two were connected to his very close friends most who formed the 'Club of 29'.

With Kibaki's exit, the fortunes of these companies went down. While Transcentury is seeking to come back bigger and better, it will take time to achieve the level it once held during Kibaki's tenure.

The Uhuru Legacy

While the NSE has had a difficult time during president Uhuru's tenure, some companies and industries boomed during this time. The last time a company was listed at NSE for starters was in October 2015.

On the other hand, the banking sector was probably the biggest beneficiary and those who had heavily invested in tier 1 banks heavily reaped. There was a lot acquisition and expansion during this era. Construction up until 2020 also experienced a boom especially roads and housing.

One company at the NSE that we cannot forget is Centum before it started going down. At one point, the CEO of Centum James Mworia was the highest paid corporate CEO in Kenya.

EABL is also a worth mention as well as Kakuzi ltd and Safaricom.

Industries To Watch

NSE Companies To Watch

While this is not an investment guide and neither I'm I an investment professional, there are a few industries I think will do well.

Energy- With President Ruto betting big on reviving the economy and his desire to surpass the achievement of former presidents energy will play a key part. Thus said, I believe KPLC is still a good stock to consider.

Agriculture- The world is facing hunger and next year might be a difficult year. When the DP talked about the Shamba System, there was uproar. I'm not here to talk about that. The key takeaway is that this government will bet big on agriculture for if your populace is full, they will ignore many other misgivings.

Construction- I don't see a slow down in Ruto's presidency in construction. If you were keen during his inauguration, Africa's richest man alive, Aliko Dangote was in attendance. Dangote tried to set up a cement company but faced huddles and left but I'm sure he is about to set shop here.

Here are some listed companies I will be watching closely in the coming months.

Listed Companies- KPLC, KCB and Equity Bank, Safaricom, Britam, Kakuzi and Carbacid. I wil also be watching Centum closely since veteran billionaire NSE investor John Kibunga bought more shares in August.

To be Listed- If they get listed, they will boost the NSE and are worth investing in. Kenya Pipeline, Kenya Ports Authority and Consolidated Bank. Any energy company listing will also be worth watching.

Remember, before you put your hard earned money in these stocks, due diligence is needed. Look at their books and see if they are worth it.