Bishop Margret Wanjiru accompanied by Starehe MP Hon. Amos Mwago address the press in Nairobi
Jesus is Alive Ministry Bishop Margret Wanjiru has criticized the Government after it gave authority for demolition of her Church.
The church located at Haille Selasie Avenue near Mudhurwa Market was recently visited by a demolition team that claimed to have orders from the Government as Bishop Margret Wanjiru narrated.
“During the last General elections, I put my effort through campaigning for the current Regime including the President Dr. William Ruto. The same Government has now betrayed me.” Said Bishop Margret Wanjiru.
The Bishop was accompanied by the current Starehe Mp Amos Mwago. The Member of Parliament noted that, The Jesus is Alive Ministry has all the legal documents, including the Tittle deed needed to convince any authority. The piece of land belongs to the Church as the Tittle deed shows. The Mp further observed that, He is ready to fight and stand in solidarity with the Church and fight any claims of land grabbing by Kenya Railways.
During the stakeholders forum meeting at Stanley Sarova Nairobi.
Panafrican Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) today met with Kenya Platform for Climate Governance (KPCG) and other stakeholders where they raised concern on current model of funding regarding Green Climate.
The forum aimed at addressing the discontent over the delay and exclusion in the ongoing discussion on the replenishment of GCF processes. The failure to fulfil the commitment made in Kenya is a cause for concern, and stakeholders want to bring attention to this issue.
Seek to share propositions with the GCF on how funds should be impactful to the community. Stakeholders believe that a constructive dialogue is essential to ensure the effective utilization of GCF funds for the benefit of the communities affected by climate change.
Green Climate Fund (GCF) Board Meeting in Kigali comes to a close today. Happening in African soils, PACJA was upbeat about the prospects of wider consultations between GCF and Non-state Actors to address bottlenecks to accessing funds from GCF and to address accountability lapses.Unfortunately, GCF seems committed to a business-as-usual approach, ignoring the views and perspectives of communities at the frontline and CSOs who closely work with them. This is inspite of the fact that communities in Africa are yet to experience the impact of climate finance
from GCF.
This Statement outlines key concerns and perspectives of the Non-State Actors, under the convenorship of the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance on the state at play at GCF and about its effectiveness in addressing the priority needs of African countries. Released at a time when the Green Climate Fund (GCF) board in Kigali, Rwanda is holding its meeting (March 4 –7, 2024), it examines the current model of GCF financing and its effectiveness in Africa and its verdict is damning – It’s not working! The Non-State Actors in Africa express deep concerns regarding the current state of affairs.
Disappointed by the low levels of funding in Africa compared to the rest of the developing
countries and that GCF funding has been trickling down at a snail’s pace, deepening the climate crisis and preventing the countries from embarking on low carbon and climate-resilient
development. Concerned by the GCF’s failure to provide relevant readiness support to African countries at scale, and the significant challenges faced by African countries in developing robust project proposals to meet the GCF’s stringent criteria for additionality, climate rationale, transformational impact, and
alignment with national priorities.
Further noting the limited scope of the readiness fund which is available largely to governments,accredited entities and applicant entities; a scope that does not consider the leadership of Nonstate Actors in climate action and enhanced accountability through monitoring of the programme portfolio of GCF.
Alarmed by the glaring lapses in accountability of GCF in Africa and projects funded by GCF andtheir inability to meet expected accountability standards and the weak oversight mechanisms.Noting that GCF is working on a false assumption of partners (National Designated Authority,Access Entities, Direct Access Entities) of having the capacity to facilitate a consultative andparticipatory climate change programming, which is not the case.
Concerned that the top-down approach of results management by GCF is not aligned with locallyled climate adaptation principles,
Deeply concerned by the fact that access to climate finance whether through direct or indirect mechanisms is not working for African countries and that bureaucratic and highly technocratic processes that add no value make the process lengthy and create complexities that deter smaller organizations and communities from accessing GCF support raising concerns about fairness and accountability among stakeholder’s, contrary to the intent of the fund.
Deeply Appalled by the fact that a substantial portion of the GCF funding is channelled through a select few large multilateral entities, perpetuating a cycle of global inequality and marginalization of locally developed solutions and that this trend not only undermines the principles of equity and
inclusivity but also limits the capacity of grassroots initiatives and community-led projects to address climate challenges effectively.
Considering the declaration by GCF to develop an ambitious and concrete plan to enhance access to CF must consider African countries’ debt context so as not to worsen the situation by way of availing more of loans as climate finance.
Taking note of the gaps in the much-touted direct access window that is not working for African countries and is a mere repackaging of the earlier existing mechanisms without conferring due advantages to other organizations, beyond those accredited to access climate finance
With GCF conspicuously missing a clear framework for the engagement of communities and civil societies and further noting that there is no accountability expectations on the part of the National Designated Authorities on the way they should engage with the communities.
Noting the Power asymmetry that characterizes consultations among key stakeholders in GCF projects including remotely placed powerful corporates, and government entities that make it impossible for CSOs and even governments to engage institutions that are grantees for GCF.
Disturbed that after nearly 14 years of GCF existence, there has not been bold intent to develop independent and strong oversight mechanisms beyond those provided under multilateralism, which are not only deficient but also incipient in design and ideology Excited by the prospects of the growing resource base of the GCF, with the GCF’s second replenishment (GCF-2) as of December 2023, having attracted 31 countries who pledged support to a total of USD 12.8 billion[1] over the next four years, a significant increase in funding commitment that should transform both the position and the conditions of the most impacted by climate change. In the spirit of breaking away from the silence and global conspiracy against communities that are most impacted by climate change that has characterized the delivery of GCF funds and itsprogrammes in Africa.
Call on the GCF Secretariat to:
Develop a holistic, accountable and transformative framework of engagement with African nonstate actors, CSOs and Communities most impacted by climate change in the continent, beyond
the observer status space
a. Strengthen the stakeholder engagement strategy to tap on the host of climate governance civil
societies prevalent in the continent to develop and facilitate their leadership in promoting greater accountabilities for all the funds disbursed by GCF in respective countries, through linkages and holding in-depth structured dialogues to unpack the purpose of the funds
b. Institutionalize frameworks for conversations/dialogue among the GCF, its grantees, communities at the frontline of the climate crisis and non-state actors rather than avoiding communities and CSOs which is the current practice of the GCF
2. Strengthen Communities and CSO Oversight Mechanisms on the GCF regarding:
a. Expand the role of civil society organizations (CSOs) to include active participation in project
planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation and reporting.
b. Directly facilitate oversight and accountability actions by Civil society organizations and communities to enhance their watchdog role across all GCF projects and programs.
c. Mainstream CSOs monitoring and evaluation processes to the GCF field monitoring visits carried out by the Independent Evaluation Unit ensure comprehensive and impactful monitoring by the monitoring unit of the GCF
3)Reforming National Designated Authorities (NDAs):
a. Define a holistic and inclusive representation of agencies, including communities and Civil
societies in the overall governance of the national space that is meant to vet and accredit entities for purposes of accessing GCF
b. Foster partnerships with non-governmental organizations, faith actors, women and youth
movements, academia, and the private sector to leverage additional expertise, infrastructure and resources for GCF projects.
c. Develop guidelines that enhance the application of inclusive and participatory approaches on
the part of NDAs in project identification, selection, and implementation to ensure the alignment of GCF-funded activities with national priorities and strategies.
d. Provide technical assistance and capacity-building support to national and local governments to enhance their capacity to manage and implement climate projects effectively.
Call on the GCF Board to:
4) Secure the interests of the frontline communities through monitoring progress on the implementation of Locally Led Adaptation Principles:
a. Call on the GCF to demonstrate progress towards adoption and action in implementing the principles of
locally-led adaptation action in all their projects and programmes that interphase with communities in Africa,
b. Demand from all GCF Grantees clear documentation that demonstrates the mechanisms put in place by the
grantee to strengthen the decision-making power of the local communities in project design and implementation.
c. GCF should urgently develop clear targets for annual scaleup of funding to address the increasing impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities and ecosystems in Africa.
5) Beyond the establishment of a Direct Access window, create a distinct window for communities and civil societies:
a. As a matter of urgency, design a distinct direct access window for the submission and review of proposals from local communities and African CSOs to address inequality and injustices that has hitherto characterized
the fund.
b. Ensure that such a mechanism is not subject to accreditation and vetting process at the national level through government entities that characterize existing funding arrangements,
c. Streamline the accreditation process for DAEs to reduce barriers to entry and promote greater inclusivity in accessing GCF resources while promoting decentralized decision-making processes within DAEs to ensure that funding decisions reflect the priorities and needs of frontline communities.
6)Consideration of Debt Implications of GCF Funding:
a. GCF should conduct thorough assessments of the potential debt implications of their projects on recipient
countries, particularly those with limited financial resources.
b. Develop financing mechanisms that minimize the risk of debt distress such as providing grants and not
loans to ensure that climate funds contribute to sustainable development without burdening recipient
countries with additional debt.
Call on UNFCCC to:
1) Work with the UNFCCC and governments across Africa to ensure multilateralism requirements do not
impede the delivery of climate finance at the frontline at the speed and scale required.
2) Call on accelerated review of the current model for access to advance a frame model that works for Africa.
Prof. Walter O. Oyawa, Director General of the National Commission for Science, Technology & Innovation (NACOSTI) representing the Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Education, Kenya Hon. Ezekiel Machogu at the official opening of the 3rd EAC Regional STI Conference today in Nairobi.
The 3rd EAC Regional Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Conference opened in Nairobi today.
The conference, which runs until Friday 8 March 2024, is hosted jointly by the East African Science and Technology Commission (EASTECO) and the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA).
Under the auspices of the East African Community (EAC), the conference is being held in collaboration with various STI stakeholders in the region and globally in order to provide an avenue for sharing experiences, best practice and applications of STI outputs. It will also serve to strengthen collaborations, facilitate regional integration and enhance sustainable development.
The conference was opened by the Director General of the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI), Dr Walter Oyawa, on behalf of Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Education Ezekiel Machogu. Other notable dignitaries present included the Executive Secretaries of IUCEA and EASTECO, Prof Gaspard Banyankimbona and Dr Sylvance Okoth, respectively, and donor representatives.
The overarching theme of the conference is, “Accelerating development and diffusion of Science, Technology and Innovation solutions for a green, inclusive and resilient East Africa.” This biennial conference builds on the deliberations and success of the 1st and 2nd conferences, which were held, respectively, in Kampala, Uganda in 2019 and Bujumbura, Burundi in 2021.
Dr. Sylavance Okoth, Executive Secretary, EASTECO at the 3rd EAC Regional STI Conference in Nairobi. Under the auspices of the East African Community (EAC), the conference is being held in collaboration with various STI stakeholders in the region and globally.
Mr Machogu observed that, Kenya plans to have at least one national polytechnic in each of the 47 counties. “The Draft Sessional Paper on Education 2024 proposes an allocation of 2% towards research with at least a third of that amount going towards TVETS and another third towards universities.”
The Executive Secretary of EASTECO, Dr Sylvance Okoth, added that, the conference will provide an important forum for exchanging scientific information, and in the process, create new linkages and strengthen bonds of collaboration. “we will be listening to outputs of scientific production in both oral and poster presentations; interact with exhibitions of scientific innovations; and witness intellectual discourse.”
On his part, IUCEA Executive Secretary Prof Gaspard Banyankimbona underscored the importance of utilizing research to improve livelihoods. “We firmly believe that research, development, and innovation (RDI) are not mere academic pursuits but the very engines driving knowledge, fostering collaborative problem-solving, and propelling the creation of impactful solutions to the challenges we face collectively.”
During the event, the EASTECO Regional STI Policy and Intellectual Property Policy were also launched.
The meeting brings together diverse actors in the STI system, including policy makers, industry players, academicians, researchers, innovators, students and development partners.
EAC GIZ Cluster Coordinator, Bjorn Richter speaking at the 3rd EAC Regional STI Conference. The conference has brought together policy makers, industry players, academicians, researchers, innovators, students and development partners.
Other stakeholders attending the conference include representatives of EAC Partner States, the African Union, Regional Economic Communities, civil society, business and industry organizations, academic and research institutions, and development partners.
The conference is being held in a hybrid mode through face-to-face and virtual platforms.
Activities include a high-level policy dialogue, plenary sessions, an exhibition, and a ministerial session. Special sessions will be held on request from partners and will incorporate a youth engagement session on technologies and innovation of the future as well as a session on entrepreneurship promotion through education, research and development.
The Treaty for establishment of the East African Community (EAC) recognizes Science and Technology as a key driver for sustainable socio-economic development in the region. Further, the EAC Vision 2050 emphasizes STI as one of the key drivers for sustainable socio-economic development and calls on higher education institutions to mainstream research and innovation towards socio-economic transformation of the region.
Party Leader & National Chairman, Farmers Party; Patron: Irungu Nyakera Foundation, Addressing a past event in the KEMSA function
In a recent address, Hon. Irungu Nyakera, Chairman of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA), candidly acknowledged the daunting challenges faced by the organization.
However, through unwavering dedication and strategic initiatives, the hurdles have been overcome, leading to remarkable progress.
Hon. Irungu Nyakera elucidated the initial obstacles, including logistical convolutions, financial constraints, and the imperative need for meticulous planning and collaboration with stakeholders. Despite these challenges, he underscored the organization’s commitment to triumph by implementing tailor-made solutions and persistent follow-up.
“The Kisumu Regional Distribution Centre stands as a testament to the promises fulfilled by the Board and management to revolutionize KEMSA into a more impactful contributor to the healthcare delivery system,” affirmed Hon. Irungu Nyakera.
The facility is designated to receive, process, and distribute medical supplies across the Great Lakes Region, initially catering to 10 counties in the Nyanza, Western, and North Rift Regions, with a gradual expansion to serve 19 counties by the end of the year.
KEMSA Health products are ready for supply
Expressing delight, Hon. Irungu highlighted the ample space of the facility, designed to facilitate efficient supply and cold chain solutions for essential medical supplies.
“This decentralization initiative is aligned with the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution, aiming to streamline order processing at the National Supply Chain Center and reduce the order turnaround time by approximately 40 percent,” emphasized Hon. Irungu.
The chairman reported that the Kisumu Regional Distribution Centre has successfully processed essential medicine orders from four counties, with a cumulative value exceeding Kshs. 120 million. Moreover, he revealed KEMSA’s substantial strides in enhancing procurement processes, asserting,
“In the past half-year, we have made significant progress in strengthening procurement to realize value for money. The board remains optimistic that these efforts will significantly impact the cost of medical commodities by the end of this financial year.”
Over the last 10 months, KEMSA has dispatched over Kshs. 22,523,862,340 worth of Essential Medicines and Medical Supplies (EMMS) and National Health Strategic Programs (NHSP) supplies nationwide. Hon. Irungu Nyakera emphasized the organization’s resurgence, stating, “KEMSA is regaining its sparkle as the last-mile delivery of more than 86,040 EMMS and NSPHP supplies dispatched to over 8,954 health facilities countrywide is no mean feat.”
Hon. Irungu Nyakera assured the public, “We are up to the task bestowed upon us because we are your healthcare partners. We commit to tirelessly working to ensure that health commodities are delivered and available for patients’ use as required.”
The newly inaugurated Regional Distribution Centre is envisioned as an all-encompassing solution hub, providing quality assurance, storage, cold chain facilities, and administrative functions to fortify an effective KEMSA.
Principal Secretary Ministry of Interior and National Security Dr. Raymond Omollo address the press
Regional Gathering by Eastern and Southern African Countries to Tackle Specter of Illicit Small Arms in Preparation for Global Meeting
Nairobi is set to host a pivotal gathering of Eastern and Southern African countries to review progress made and set priorities for preventing, combatting and eradicating the scourge of illicit small arms and light weapons (SALW). The Regional Preparatory Meeting for the Fourth Review Conference on the United Nations Programme of Action to Prevent, Combat and Eradicate the Illicit Trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons in All Its Aspects (UN PoA) and its International Tracing Instrument (ITI) is set to take place from 4 to 5 March 2024.
The meeting will see high-level attendance by the President Designate of the Fourth Review Conference, Ambassador Maritza Chan Valverde of Costa Rica, as well as Izumi Nakamitsu, UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs.
They are joined by delegations from over 26 countries from the Eastern and Southern Africa region, and regional and sub-regional organizations such as the African Union, the Economic Community of East African Community (ECA), the Southern African Development Community (SADC.
The regional preparatory meeting will be dedicated to fostering exchange of views on the state of implementation of the UN PoA and ITI and discuss a set of priorities in preparation for the UN PoA’s Fourth Review Conference (RevCon4), scheduled to take place in New York from 17-28 June 2024.
The widespread availability and illicit proliferation of SALW serve as key drivers and enablers of armed conflicts, violent extremism, and the expansion of terrorism, among other sources of violence and insecurity. Small arms control measures have proven themselves to be effective tools to disrupt the supply of illicit SALW to terrorist and criminal groups. “Adequate small arms control is a crucial means of reducing armed violence, preventing conflict and building peaceful and inclusive societies – without which sustainable development cannot happen,” says Izumi Nakamitsu, UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs. One such tool is the UN PoA, adopted in 2001. This politically binding framework contains commitments by Member States to enhance control measures over small arms, including through improved national regulations, stockpile management, import/export controls and international cooperation. The introduction of the International Tracing Instrument in 2005 further strengthened this framework, by emphasizing the need for effective marking and record-keeping of weapons, thus aiding in their traceability. These measures are integral to the global effort in addressing the challenges posed by the illicit arms trade and align with the objectives of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
United Nations Member States periodically review progress on these commitments, with biennial meeting of States and review conferences every six years. A Preparatory Committee meeting from 12-16 February 2024 helped to lay the groundwork.
In anticipation of the RevCon4, the United Nations Regional Centre for Peace and Disarmament in Africa (UNREC) is organizing the preparatory regional meeting for Eastern and Southern African
States in Nairobi, Kenya. On 29 February – 01 March, a similar meeting for West and Central African States took place in Lomé, Togo.
The Nairobi meeting will provide a forum for participating States and other stakeholders, including regional organizations to identify region-specific SALW-related challenges and discuss priorities for RevCon4. The two-day meeting will feature thematic presentations and group discussions on various themes, such as developing effective national policies, enhancing tracing of SALW through the International Tracing Instrument framework, and identifying and
developing strategies to curb the supply and demand of SALW. It also offers a unique opportunity for participating States and regional organizations of Eastern and Southern Africa to engage in constructive discussions on combating terrorism, illicit trafficking and transnational crimes within the framework of the UN PoA and contribute to countries’ voluntary national reports. They will also explore the synergies between UN PoA and regional instruments such as the Nairobi Protocol on small arms and the South African Development Community (SADC) Protocol on control of firearms, along with Weapons and Ammunition Management and commitments made in the area
of preventing violent extremism and with regards to integrating SALW control into 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its linkages to the African Union 2063 Agenda for inclusive and sustainable development. Moreover, the regional preparatory meeting is a fundamental platform to discuss the enhancement of international cooperation and assistance.
The regional meeting takes place in the context of the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs’ global project that seeks to support full and effective implementation of the Programme of Action and its International Tracing Instrument, supported by the European Union.
“Educate an African fit for the 21st Century: Collective Action for Quality, Inclusive, and Lifelong Learning.” This is the African Union’s call for all governments and other players on the continent.
Media is a critical partner in the journey of transforming education in Kenya and the larger continent of Africa.
East African governments, particularly Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, are in a race to embrace competency-based education systems, known as CBC here in Kenya.
As we help the learner achieve their various competencies, we can not forget the competencies that help mold a whole learner. In the Kenyan context, we refer to these competencies as life skills and values.
You may be aware that in its first phase, we assessed over 45,000 in-school and out-of-school adolescent boys (48.6%) and girls (51.2%) from 13 to 17 years of age. The assessment covered 35,720 households, across Kenya, Uganda, the Tanzanian mainland, and Zanzibar. The assessment
focused on three skills (self-awareness, collaboration, and problem-solving) and one value, (respect). The findings indicate that less than 10% have proficiencies in the skills.
The competency-based curriculum aims to nurture every learner’s potential and mainstream values and life skills; however, the framework of integration and measurement of life skills and values has been lacking, especially across the East African region.
Action for Life Skills and Values in East Africa (ALiVE) envisions a world where the schooling generation acquires the needed competencies to navigate the complexities of the 21st century and live meaningful lives. ALiVE is an initiative of the Regional Learning Initiative (RELIAfrica). The goal of the initiative is to support the four national education systems.
Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zanzibar) in their focus on competencies, inform regional policy throughout the East African Community, and contribute to global knowledge on the measurement of life skills and values in context.
Currently, ALiVE has developed a contextualized tool via a learning-through-doing approach. So far, we have produced 47 local experts in assessment. We have developed an assessment tool targeting learners aged 6–17 in the areas of life skills and values. We are also influencing approaches in teacher training colleges to ensure that life skills and values are integrated throughout the entire education journey of the African learner.
We rolled into action fully aware that this is not a time to complain about what is not working at CBC; it is a time to unite and make it work for the better of our learners. We have therefore committed to developing resources that will help produce a whole learner who is not only equipped with technical skills but also armed with values and life skills that can help them lead meaningful lives and fit well in society.
In November and December of 2023, the Zizi Afrique Foundation convened a group of teachers from 6 countries to learn from Prof. Esther Care, a renowned expert in the measurement of core
competencies and values.
In two months, the teachers went through a 7-module practical learning session on the development of tools to assess core competencies and values among 6–12-year-old learners.
Through this process, the teachers developed tools to assess problem-solving, collaboration, and respect. These tools have been integrated into Environmental Activities in Grade 3, Science and Social Studies in Grade 5, and Integrated Science, Social Studies, and Creative Arts and Sports in Grade 7. The tools have gone through various stages of revision after think-aloud/cognitive laboratories and are now ready to be tested with the learners.
On February 27th, 2024, ALiVE conducted the first pilot of the tools in three schools:
Kamihindu and Ngurubani Westlands primary schools are located in Kiambu, Kirinyaga, and Nairobi counties, respectively. The lessons drawn from the pilot will inform how we shape the national assessment that we shall conduct later in the year.
This evening between 3:30 pm and 4:30 pm EAT, we shall be convening a virtual learning session to appreciate the extent to which East African education systems have embedded life skills and values. Kindly register via the link provided and join us online:
The Competition Authority of Kenya has approved the proposed acquisition of minority control of African Originals Limited, the ulimtate owners of the KO brand of alocoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, by Phoenix Beverages Limited unconditionally.
1. The Competition Authority of Kenya has approved the proposed acquisition of minority controlof African Originals Limited by Phoenix Beverages Limited unconditionally.
2. This approval has been granted on the finding that the transaction is unlikely to negatively impact competition in the market for manufacture, processing, distribution, and sale of alcoholic ciders, alcoholic spirits and non-alcoholic ready-to-drink (NARTD) beverages, nor elicit negative public interest concerns – the two key considerations during merger analysis.
3. Phoenix Beverages Limited (PBL) is a limited liability company incorporated in Mauritius. PBL is publicly listed on the Stock Exchange of Mauritius Ltd. PBL’s ultimate holding company is IBL Ltd (IBL), which is a publicly listed company incorporated in Mauritius.
4. PBL is involved in the manufacture, processing, distribution, and sale of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, but has no operations in Kenya. However, through IBL, the acquiring group
directly and indirectly control several undertakings with operations in Kenya, including its affiliate Naivas Limited.
5. African Originals Limited is a private company limited incorporated in England and Wales. It controls an entity in Kenya, Savannah Brands Company Limited, that manufactures, processes,
distributes and sells alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages including Kenyan Originals (KO)Alcoholic Fruit Cider, Kenyan Originals Gin, and Kenyan Originals Iced Tea and Tonic.
6. The proposed transaction involves the acquisition of a minority controlling stake (28.15%) of
African Originals Limited’s ordinary shares by PBL, alongside minority controlling rights relating to, among others, budgets, annual business plans, and appointment of senior executives.
This will result in de facto control.
7. The transaction, therefore, qualified as a merger within the meaning of Section 2 and 41 of the Competition Act No. 12 of 2010. The Act stipulates that a merger, or takeover, may occur when an undertaking directly or indirectly acquires control over another business within Kenya. This
may happen through, among others, purchase/lease of shares, exchange of shares, or vertical integration.
8. Further, merging parties whose combined turnover or assets, whichever is higher, is over Ksh. 1Billion are required to seek approval from the Authority prior to implementing the proposedtransaction. The transaction between PBL and African Originals Limited met this threshold for mandatory notification and full analysis as provided in the Competition (General) Rules, 2019.
9. During merger analysis, and in order to determine the impact that a transaction will have on competition, the Authority identifies the relevant product market as well as the relevant geographic market.
10. The relevant product market comprises products/services that are interchangeable or substitutable by the consumer due to their characteristics, prices and/or intended use. Based on this criterion, the relevant product market for the proposed transaction is the market for the manufacture, processing, distribution, and sale of alcoholic ciders, alcoholic spirits and nonalcoholic ready-to-drink (NARTD) beverages.
11. It is noteworthy that the activities of the acquirer’s affiliate, Naivas Limited, and the target are vertically integrated since Savannah Brands Company Limited supplies the supermarket chain with products.
12. Determination of the relevant geographic market involves interrogating the area in which merging parties undertake the business and in which competition conditions are sufficiently similar. With regard to the proposed transaction, the target sells its products throughout the country. Therefore, the relevant geographic market is national.
i.Market for Alcoholic Ciders in Kenya
13. Cider is an alcoholic drink made from fermented apple juice. Ciders are distinguished from wine by their lower alcohol content and higher natural sugars. Further, the production lead-time for ciders typically is shorter.
14. Some of the manufacturers and/or suppliers in the alcoholic cider market in Kenya include East African Breweries PLC (EABL) which produces Tusker Cider & Sikera, Kenya Wine Agencies Ltd (KWAL) which produces Savannah and Hunters, and the target – Kenyan Originals (KO) Ciders. The estimated market shares for the players and brands of cider according to data provided by the parties is as indicated below.
15. As earlier indicated, the target is in a vertical relationship with Naivas Limited, which is engaged
in retail distribution and sale of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, among other
commodoties.
16. Although the target and Naivas are vertically intergrated, none of them holds a dominant position or has ability to exercise market power in both the upstream and downstream markets since there have effective competitors. Therefore, there is no incentive to foreclose supply of targets products to other retailers or customers.
ii)Market for Spirits in Kenya
17. Spirits are alcoholic beverages produced through distillation of wine, fermented fruits, or grains.
Due to distillation, the spirits’ alcohol content is much higher than that of most wines and beers, typically ranging between 20% and 50% alcohol by volume (ABV). The spirits segment is further divided into various sub-segments: gin, rum, whisky, vodka, brandy, liqueurs, among others.
18. Spirits are the second most popular alcoholic beverage in Kenya, accounting for approximately
27% market share. Some of the manufacturers and/or suppliers of alcoholic spirits market in Kenya include EABL, Keroche Breweries Limited, Anheuser-Busch In Bev NV, London Distillers Kenya Ltd, Distell Group Ltd, and KWAL.
19. Data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) 2023 Statistical Abstract estimated the earnings of the alcoholic spirits industry at KES 1.9 Billion in 2022. The target’s market share inthe spirits market was less than 1% in 2022.
20. The value of annual sales arising from the vertical relationship between the target and Naivas with regard to spirits is 12%. When coupled with the retailers’ market share in terms of alcoholic beverage sales in the country, the Authority is of the view that the proposed transaction does not raise competition concerns, specifically regarding foreclosure in the spirits market.
iii)Market for NARTD Beverages in Kenya
21. NARTD beverages refer to beverages that do not contain alcohol, excluding hot drinks,
powdered drink mixes, and syrups. The market for NARTDs can be segmented into ccarbonated and non-carbonated soft drinks. This market in Kenya is characterized by a mix of multinational corporations and local companies. The market is hihghly diverse, with various products catering to different consumer preferences.
22. The Coca-Cola Company has the largest market share of NARTDs in Kenya, accounting for approximately 70% of the market followed by Kevian Kenya (4.76%); Excel Chemicals (2.29%); Del Monte (1.42%); Highlands (1.59%); Suntory (0.48%), and others (19.46%), including the target’s brands.
23. According to the parties, the vertical relationship between the target and Naivas accounts for approximately 5% of its total annual sales of KO Iced Teas and Tonics. When coupled with the retailers’ market share in terms of alcoholic beverage sales in the country, the Authority is of the view that the proposed transaction does not raise competition concerns, specifically regarding foreclosure in the NARTD market.
24. One criterion of assessing a merger’s impact on competition is the post-merger market share of the undertakings involved in the transaction. Based on the Authority’s assessment of applicable
market shares, the structure and concentration of the market in the marekts for alcoholic ciders,
spirits and NARTD beverages will not change as a result of the proposed transaction.
25. During merger analysis, the Authority also considers the impact that a proposed transaction will have on public interest. Public interest in this case refers to various economically-inclined concepts that, when considered, protect the welfare of the public. In the Competition Act, some
of the public interest considerations are;
a) extent to which a proposed merger would impact employment opportunities;
b) impact on competitiveness of SMEs;
c) impact on particular industries/sectors; and
d) impact on the ability of national industries to compete in international markets.
26. As per the parties’ submissions, this transaction will not elicit negative public interest concerns. Specifically, there will be no loss of employment. All the target’s 87 employees will be retained.
Premised on the above, the Authority approved the proposed acquisition of minority control of African Originals Limited by Phoenix Beverages Limited unconditionally.
Air pollution is one of the biggest threats to human health, economy, and overall Ecological balance. In the Kenyan capital of Nairobi, studies have shown that the air quality is consistently poor, with average annual PM2.5 levels more than double the World Health Organization’s (WHO) guidelines levels (WRI, 2021).
According to experts, the Ever-increasing populations and the intensification of industries, deforestation, construction works, and vehicular traffic have caused the air quality to worsen over the years (WRI, 2021). In particular, studies have reported on the increase in specific pollutants like organic compounds (VOCs) in Nairobi.
While addressing journalists during a media workshop organized by Internews Earth Journalism Network East Africa on ‘’Air Pollution in Nairobi: Sources, Impact and Solutions- How to Report Them’’ Mr Sammy Simiyu, the Vital Strategist and Co-chair of the Health Committed noted that Air Pollution has resulted to many deaths and has a great impact, especially to pregnant women.
‘’Generally, Air Pollutions affect adults and children as opposed to other diseases that might target specific groups of people such as Corona Virus that mainly affects the elderly. Studies have shown that 46% of deaths result from air pollution. Also, if a pregnant woman is exposed to air pollution, the unborn baby’s development will be affected and you are likely to see the impact after the baby is born.” Said Mr Sammy Simiyu
The transport sector in Nairobi County has been cited as the biggest Air Polluter in Kenya’s Capital City.
Maurice Kavai, Deputy Director, of Air Quality and Climate Change Nairobi City County Government, said that the transport sector accounts for 45 percent of Nairobi’s air pollution, followed by waste products, at 33 percent, and stationery energy at 22 percent.
Other factors contributing to Air pollution in the city are commercial eateries, industries, waste burning, and households.
To address the gaps, Internews Earth Journalism Network in collaboration with Clear Air Catalyst – A Global Partnership for Accelerating Equitable Clean Air and Climate Solutions- organized training and capacity building for local journalists to report on Air pollution in Nairobi and deepen public understanding of source, impact, and solutions of Air Pollution
“The media is critical in informing the public, shaping perceptions, and driving policies relating to air pollution. Journalists can stimulate community-level dialogues and help create enabling environments for policies. The mainstream media, community media as well as social media can reinforce key messages on air pollution and potentially bring about greater accountability and behavioral change’’
Clear Air Catalyst have also found to challenge most journalists encounter to access information. some of the challenges are; Members of the public in Nairobi would only grant them interviews off camera for fear of retaliation by cartels that run the garbage collection industry in Nairobi. Also, of reprisals from senior government officials prevented Nairobi residents from sharing important air quality information with journalists, Safety issues organizations with air quality information denied them access to the data, Media houses faced constraints in reporting on air quality, which included budgetary constraints, time and personnel dedicated to producing the stories.
Intimidation or fear while researching air pollution stores because some of the air pollution hot spots like Dandora are heavily protected by locals since they are a source of livelihood for the residents.
To this end, they are calling on Nairobi County City to Improve Source Awareness by building a shared understanding of the pollution sources that affect communities in each city.
The Ministry of Interior and National Administration met with development partners to work together on enhancing citizen participation, peace building and conflict resolution.
Various development partners were present where the meeting was held at Serena Hotel, Nairobi, hosted by Internal Security and National Administration Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo to review their collective achievements, challenges and to chart a path for the year 2024.
The Principal Secretary Ministry of Interiror and National Administration observed that, the challenges the country faces from evolving security threats demands continuous vigilance and unwavering resolve, a matter he emphasized that requires greater collaboration and support from development partners.
In 2023, the ministry joined forces with development partners where they embarked on a consultative and collaborative journey to anchor the foundations of security, resilience and progress within the country.
“In 2023 our vision was to utilize the multi-sectoral approach and promote inter-agency coordination not only in the management of security but also in planning, budgeting, monitoring and delivery of security related programmes,” Said PS Raymond Omollo Ministry of Interior and National Administration.
The PS singled out the European Union, the International Organization for Migration, the German Development Agency and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime as partners who funded numerous programmes to enhance Kenya’s border security management and capacity building for border officials, modernization of border infrastructure and technological support for passport and visa management.
He further noted that, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the International Monetary Fund along with other development partners and donor countries, have been working closely with the ministry to provide humanitarian assistance and protection to the refugees who are a vulnerable population.
The Secretary General of the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP), Eng James K. Wahogo has issued the following statement following the EAPP Steering Committee and Council of Ministers’ Meetings at Ole Sereni Hotel, Nairobi.
The forum saw the attendance of Members who included; Burundi,DRC, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Libya, Rwada, Somalia, S.Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania and Uganda.
The Eastern Africa Power Pool Secretary further observed that, the they are happy to announce the significant progress in collective efforts toward fostering regional collaboration and advancing sustainable energy solutions and power trade across Eastern Africa.
The Eastern Africa Power Pool remains committed to enhancing energy security, promoting crossborder electricity trade, and driving the development of renewable energy sources within our member countries.
Cabinet Secretary Mr. Davis Chirchir Ministry of Energy and Petroleum
“It has been an honor to host the Eastern Africa Power Pool (EAPP) Steering Committee and Council of Ministers Meetings here in Nairobi. We had representations from member states along
with key development partners like the World Bank, the African
Development Bank (AfDB), USAID/Power Africa.
The representatives from the member countries and utilities in the Eastern Africa region actively participated in these meetings, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing regional cooperation
in the energy sector.
Together, these countries have an installed capacity of 90.6GW against a peak demand of 59.4MW which is estimated to grow at a rate of 6% annually. In total, the cross-border trade in terms of electricity sales within the EAPP member countries was about 2,527GHh between quarter 1 and quarter 3 of 2024.
The discussions held were key in strengthening the organisational
structure of the EAPP with a view of enhancing coordination, streamlining decision-making processes and to fortify the EAPP’s capacity to address emerging challenges head-on.” Said Davis Chirchir Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Energy and Petroleum Kenya.
EAPP continues to facilitate the implementation of cross-border transmission projects aimed at strengthening regional connectivity and ensuring the reliable supply of electricity to our growing population. Together, we have the potential to impact over 600 million people through increasing
of electrification rates within the region.
Currently the countries are trading over 3,400GWh annually, which represents a big achievement compared to the 504 GWh of power transferred in the region when the EAPP was first establishedin 2005. Ongoing efforts to enhance the interconnection of national power grids are progressing
well, contributing to increased efficiency in power exchange and supporting economic
development across member countries.
To build on the benefits of this interconnectivity, we are striving to have the competitive day-ahead power market go live by the end of December 2024. This market will take us from bilateral trade to trade amongst countries all countries in the region, ensuring not only regular supply but efficient use of energy.
Finally, we are actively promoting the harnessing of renewable energy sources to meet the region’s power demands sustainably. We are sourcing partnerships and financing for projects in solar and hydropower for a greener and more cost-effective energy future.
All this is made possible by the Steering Committee and Council of Ministers, whose
recommendations form the guiding principles within which the Secretariat operates to fulfil its mandate. EAPP is pleased with what has transpired here and extend the gratitude to the ministers, CEOs, senior officials, and delegates who endeavored to participate in these meetings.
