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Author: Kenyaleo Editorial Team

  • When seeking investment, African entrepreneurs must identify the right funding model

    When seeking investment, African entrepreneurs must identify the right funding model

    By [Gorata Ogotseng Corporate Communications Manager], Norsad Capital

     

    Ask most entrepreneurs what their biggest challenge is and there’s a good chance they’ll list access to investment and funding among them. That’s particularly true in many of Africa’s biggest entrepreneurial markets too.

     

    In a survey released by the Entrepreneurs’ Organisation (EO) South Africa earlier this year, for instance, nearly half of South African entrepreneurs said they don’t get enough funding from the public or private sectors. Another survey released by East Africa Com, meanwhile, saw 59% of East African entrepreneurs list a lack of access to investors as a significant business barrier. Similarly, a 2021EFInA report found that 70% of Nigerian startups and scale-ups struggled with access to finance post-COVID-19.

     

    As important as improving access to that funding is, it’s almost as critical that entrepreneurs identify the funding models best suited to their business needs. The wrong funding model can, after all, mean that entrepreneurs end up over-diluting their equity in the business or taking on too much debt. But what do those funding models look like? And what advantages does each model offer?

     

    Debt vs equity

     

    One of the first distinctions that all entrepreneurs should understand is the difference between debt and equity-based financing.

     

    Debt-based financing simply involves borrowing money, usually at interest, from lenders. For some businesses, that may mean borrowing from traditional financial institutions such as banks. Others may instead go to private lenders. Regardless of how well or badly the business performs, the lent money must be paid back. That said, it does ensure that entrepreneurs retain a greater degree of control over their businesses.

     

    Equity financing, on the other hand, involves selling ownership shares (equity) in the company to investors, such as shareholders or venture capitalists. While it doesn’t create an obligation to repay any money, it does mean that entrepreneurs end up with a reduced stake in the business. And because they’re part owners, they may not have a full say in how the business is run.

     

    Choosing whether to take one approach or the other (or a combination of the two), largely depends on a company’s financial situation, risk tolerance, and its desire to maintain control or share ownership with external investors.

     

    Beyond the basics

     

    Beyond those basics, most organisations that offer funding will provide a range of funding models. These include, but are not limited to:

     

    Senior debt finance

    Senior debt is a company’s highest priority debt that must be repaid first during bankruptcy. This kind of financing is typically secured against some type of collateral (the company’s physical assets, for example) although its can also be unsecured. In the event of bankruptcy or if the loan goes into default, the collateral of a secured senior debt facility may be sold to cover the debt. Unsecured senior debt holders can file claims against the company’s general assets.

     

    Unitranche finance

    Unitranche finance combines the various forms of debt held by a business into one loan. Under this form of financing, the borrower pays a blended interest rate and has a predictable repayment schedule that can be tailored to the borrower’s needs. Unitranche financing can enable medium-sized companies to access financing that would be impossible to get from a bank.

     

    Second lien finance

    Second lien debt is secured debt that ranks equally for payment with senior debt and shares the same security package. Second-lien loans are not debt subordinated to first-lien loans, only on the capital pledged to secure the loan. This means that in the event of bankruptcy, the second lien ranks behind senior debt in the receipt of proceeds from shared collateral.

     

    Mezzanine finance

    Mezzanine finance is a hybrid form of financing that includes aspects of debt and equity-based funding. In addition to being used for expansion or recapitalisation, mezzanine finance can be utilised to acquire other businesses, for management buyouts, and to minimise dilution of equity. Companies will usually consider mezzanine financing to finance business goals when they have reached their senior debt borrowing ceiling or want to preserve future senior debt capacity.

     

    Choosing the right model

     

    Knowing what these various models entail and what they’re used for should go some way to helping entrepreneurs figure out which one is best for them. That said, it’s worth breaking it down a little further. When deciding on a model to pursue, entrepreneurs should consider their capital needs, risk tolerance, how much (if any) ownership and control they’re willing to give up, the cost of the capital, and the negotiated terms offered by the lender or investor.

     

    If the business has relatively low capital needs, for instance, a traditional bank loan or senior debt may be the best option. On the other hand, if the business is on an aggressive growth trajectory, it may be more inclined to take on a more high-risk form of funding such as mezzanine finance.

     

    Fortunately, businesses aren’t on their own when it comes to making such choices. A good lending or investment institution will work with the company to figure out the best funding structure for it. Even with that assistance, however, it’s still important that the business undertakes a thorough financial analysis, interrogates the terms of each financing option, and makes a decision that aligns with the company’s goals and risk profile.

  • Emergency Medicine Kenya Holds Two Day Symposium in Nairobi

    Emergency Medicine Kenya Holds Two Day Symposium in Nairobi

    Emergency Medicine Kenya Foundation (EMKF) on Thursday 2nd and Friday 3rd November 2023 held a two day symposium at Kenya School of Government (KSG) in Nairobi to impact on healthcare system in the country.

    The 4th edition, Emergency care symposium has garnered tremendous success as demonstrated by previous symposia and their impact on the emergency healthcare system in Kenya.

    To build on this momentum, this year’s symposium aims to equip frontline healthcare providers with the necessary emergency medical care knowledge and skills through our innovative and groundbreaking Emergency medical care skills market place.

    The target audience for this symposium is healthcare providers working in emergency departments and ambulance services.

    Symposium with healthcare providers,

    “Today, we have brought in emergency healthcare providers from across the country to come and sharpen and improve their skills and knowledge. Emergency healthcare fund has been approved by the government, and we are happy on that move so that all kenyans can access quality emergency healthcare.” Said Doctor Benjamin Wachira Executive Director Emergency Medicine Kenya Foundation.

    Health Advisor at the Office of The President Doctor Mwai Daniel offered that, ” We are trying to help Kenyans  by coming up with Afya Bora Mashinani Nyumbani part of Universal Healthcare model given the burden of healthcare. The issue of healthcare financing is critical since some families are left poor by huge hospital Bills, some are related to emergency cases such as accidents. Due to many lives lost, we saw the need for emergency healthcare fund and the desire to have the whole country benefit from the care. Emergency fundbis expected to provide evacuation of the person to nearby healthcare institution get the stabilization services 24 hours as the fund shoulders the cost. The Bill has already been signed into law by the President.”

    Kephas Achiro representing Turkana County observes that they have benefited alot from the programme training, Availability of the ambulance hence highlighting the need for emergency  care in Turkana  county.

    Doctor Matano Kibwana from Kilifi County also noted that, the Emergency Health system in Kilifi needed a new  unit and having a role in Emergency healthcare system and prehospital care where there is a toll number for all people to call.
    and further called upon different stakeholders to come on board as partners to help in matters of emergency services.

    EMKF is a non-governmental organization (NGO) committed to strengthening emergency healthcare systems in Kenya to save lives. It provides with the latest in emergency medical care practice to healthcare workers and the public through the Casualty App, training and the provision of freely available educational resources.

  • Stakeholders Call for Urgent Transformation in Food and Land Use Systems

    The coalition of food and land use stakeholders (FOLU) has come together to address the urgent challenges of food and nutrition insecurity, land degradation, growing inequalities, and declining agricultural output in Kenya.

    FOLU yesterday held a high-stakes meeting, spearheaded by AGRA, the World Resources Institute (WRI), the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), and the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network (UNSDSN).

    The event brought together key figures representing various sectors, including government, county government, private industry, development partners, farmer organizations, and civil society groups.

    The meeting was organized to explore collaborative strategies aimed at achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and adapting food systems and land use practices to combat the impacts of a changing climate.

    Cecil Haverkamp, Director of UNSDSN, acknowledged the primacy of governments and the key role they play in steering local solutions for sustainable development.

    He recognized the critical role of government in developing policies and how the private sector and NGOs should consider existing policies that are available when seeking to execute projects and programs relating to food security.

    Cecil also deeply delves into target-driven development – with short-, medium-term, and long-term targets, policies, and action. ”The way to approach development is to set national goals that are supported by policies with enough resources and capacity to implement the programs,” said Cecil

    Speaking about the complexity of food systems and land use reform and adaptation, Cecil highlighted the need for collaboration and public sector inclusion. ‘It is important to engage the policy implementors when drafting policies and for the private sector and NGOs to include governments at the front and center of projects.’ Said Cecil.

    Dr. Kalibala, the President of AGRA, also emphasized this point. She acknowledged that NGOs are now the ones who hold and manage resources, as well as the ones who have skilled task forces and personnel, while the governments face inadequate capacity and resources to implement their policies.

    Dr. Kalibata brought out that NGOs sometimes disregard government initiatives in a patronizing way and try to be the ones who come up with mechanisms and policies. The corrupt perceptions that the private sector and NGOs have toward governments hinder effective resource mobilization for public initiatives that support sustainable food systems.

    Central to the discussions during the event was the pivotal link between food systems and the policies that support the agenda.

    Dr. Kalibata, stressed the imperative need to invest in our food systems, identifying areas where we can add value and create opportunities within various food systems across different countries.

    She also highlighted the pressing nature of the challenges we face, underscoring that urgency and innovation are now more critical than ever. ‘’We need to think beyond bilateral aid and look into debt swap and donor partitioning.

    And it’s also important for donors to align their efforts from a myriad of initiatives to a narrow scope where they can be able to show significant progress and milestones.’’ said Dr. Kalibata.

    Dr. Kalibata said in her closing remarks that we also need to see how resources can be transformative and combine private sector efforts with government efforts, especially devolved units, to build sustainable food systems. “Aid is not a miracle worker, and we need to empower institutions to develop a critical mass of resources in order to move forward and unlock the potential of African countries,” she said.

    The discussions hinted at the roles of FOLU as a supporter of governments in making a case internationally, by vouching for the quality of existing policies and their commitment to implementing them, and by making a real effort to unlock funds.‘UNSDSN is working to determine what countries have committed to, what existing policies are in place, and how FOLU can support countries in implementing those commitments and policies.’ said Cecil. Cecil also underscored FOLU’s unwavering commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda and policies.

    The FOLU coalition reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to supporting food systems, exemplifying the essence of collaboration and collective action. It acknowledges the paramount importance of addressing the multifaceted challenges embedded in today’s food systems and land use practices. The coalition also emphasizes the need to align its strategies with climate adaptation and nature restoration.

    Furthermore, the event delved into the intricate dynamics of food and land use and the compelling need to prioritize youth empowerment, foster social inclusivity, and enhance nutrition.

    Today’s event marked a significant milestone in AGRA’s ongoing collaboration with FOLU, emphasizing their commitment to supporting the transformation of food systems. The partners at FOLU aspire to support food systems and adapt our approach to land use, ultimately ensuring a healthier planet for generations to come. As a core partner, AGRA reaffirmed its dedication to advancing sustainable food system transformation and ensuring food security throughout the African continent.

    About AGRA:

    Founded in 2006, AGRA is an African-led African-based organization dedicated to catalyzing Agriculture Transformation in Africa. AGRA focuses on placing smallholder farmers at the heart of the continent’s growing economy by transforming agriculture from a solitary struggle to survive into a thriving business. As the sector employs the majority of Africa’s population, nearly all of whom are small-scale farmers, AGRA recognizes that developing smallholder agriculture into a productive, efficient, and sustainable system is essential to ensuring food security, lifting millions out of poverty, and promoting equitable growth across the continent.

    About FOLU.

    The Food and Land Use Coalition (FOLU) is a community of organizations and individuals committed to the urgent need to transform the way we produce and consume food and use our land for people, nature, and climate.

    They support science-based solutions and help build a shared understanding of the challenges and opportunities to unlock collective, ambitious action.

  • Tap into rich Burundi market, CS Chelugui tells Kenyan traders

    By Maurice Momanyi 

    Kenyan small and medium enterprises have been advised to take advantage of the forthcoming 23rd MSME Exhibition and Trade Fair which will be held in Bujumbura, Burundi next month, to grow their businesses.

    Speaking during the unveiling of the national organizing committee for the said Trade Fair to be held from 5th to 15th December 2023, Co-operatives and Micro-Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Development Cabinet Secretary Simon Chelugui said the Expo would help them expand their reach into new markets, share new technologies, and strengthen regional integration.

    Citing the EAC’s expanded market size of 300 million people and an estimated GDP of US$250 billion resulting from the recent entry of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) into the bloc, CS Chelugui noted that it adds significant impetus to the push to increase Intra-EAC trade.

    Noting that the EAC region now stretches from the Indian Ocean to the Atlantic Ocean, making it competitive and easy to access the larger African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Chelugui said this is a rich market for Kenyan MSMEs products and services, adding that it would enhance competitiveness at the industry and enterprise level through the exploitation of opportunities for production at scale, continental market access, and better reallocation of resources.

    “Burundi is a virgin market with immense unexploited opportunities and I encourage Kenyan MSMEs to take advantage of the excellent relations between the two countries to establish a foothold and exploit the emerging opportunities in terms of trade and investment. Possible areas of investment and market penetration include agro-processing, education, health, finance and banking, energy, light manufacturing, and construction,” Chelui said adding that Burundi is also a regional hub and entry point to Eastern DRC and the hinterland of the greater Central Africa region, thus an indicator of a potentially vast market that Kenyan exports can fully exploit. 

    This year’s trade fair, Chelugui said, serves to give exceptional commercial prospects for showcasing regional brands of both goods and services, providing further momentum to the EAC integration process.

    The theme of this year’s Expo, “Connecting East Africa MSMEs to enhance Intra-EAC Trade,” resonates well with Kenya’s push for ‘Buy Kenya Build Kenya’ while also capturing the developmental aspirations of the EAC region as it adds impetus to member countries’ industrial initiatives and recognizes the important role that the development of domestic capabilities plays in the development of the regional economies.

    “The theme equally resonates with the East African Industrialization Strategy target to increase intra-regional manufacturing of exports relative to total manufactured imports in the region to at least 25 percent by 2032. Indeed, with our economies just emerging from the shocks caused by the recent global outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic; it is therefore imperative that the business recovery trajectory is maintained by way of harnessing local sourcing and deepening the value chain frameworks among other strategies,” Chelugui noted. 

    By deepening the value chain frameworks, he added, Kenyan industries and organizations will definitely identify and group their own business functions into strategic primary and secondary activities; understand linkages and dependencies between different activities and areas in the business, and understand core competencies and areas of improvement.

    The Expo will present an opportunity for over 300 Kenyan MSMEs to further understand the emerging market dynamics and business practices to facilitate business linkages for increased trade. 

    “It will not only avail a forum for showcasing what Kenya has to offer to the regional market but also play a leading role in facilitating trade and business exchanges among participating countries while at the same time offering an exciting platform for launching new and improved technologies targeting both the local and regional markets I would encourage the participating Kenyan entrepreneurs to take full advantage of the opportunities offered by the platform to share and learn from each other, create new business links, launch new products and services, and undertake test marketing as well as enhance the brand and corporate image of products and enterprises from the EAC region,” he said.

    On his part, chairman of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) James Mureu hailed the Expo as one that plays a pivotal role in not only Kenya’s but also the region’s economic growth.

    Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) Chief Executive Henry Rithaa Mwenda, whose body is mandated to spearhead and co-ordinate Kenya’s participation in this trade fair, reaffirmed that he will ensure participating MSMEs are fairly selected from across the 47 counties to ensure a successful event and fruitful business engagements and outcomes.

    Over 1500 participating MSMEs are expected at the 10-day event, not only to showcase their products and innovative services but also to exhibit and share experiences on some of their life-changing innovations and creativity that helped them to navigate the current economic strains amidst stringent standard operating procedures (SOPs).

  • Shabana FC’s Courageous Stand Against Gor Mahia Despite Loss**

    Shabana FC’s Courageous Stand Against Gor Mahia Despite Loss**

     

    In a nail-biting encounter that had fans on the edge of their seats, Shabana FC showcased immense courage and determination, even in the face of a controversial 1-0 defeat against Gor Mahia at the Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani. The match, marred by contentious decisions and heated moments, highlighted Shabana FC’s unwavering resolve to challenge the giants of Kenyan football.

    Shabana FC, under the astute guidance of head coach Sammy Okoth, approached the game with a well-thought-out game plan. Despite the absence of key players due to injuries, Shabana FC’s defense stood tall, thwarting Gor Mahia’s attacking onslaught on numerous occasions. Goalkeeper Erick Ongiri emerged as the hero of the match, making crucial saves that kept his team in contention until the final whistle.

    The defining moment of the game occurred in the 79th minute when Shabana FC’s defender Aduda Abisolom received a controversial red card, reducing the team to ten men. The decision, met with disbelief and frustration, added an extra layer of challenge for Shabana FC. However, rather than succumbing to pressure, Shabana FC rallied together, displaying remarkable unity and spirit.

    Head coach Sammy Okoth expressed his admiration for his players’ bravery, emphasizing their ability to stand firm against adversity. “I cannot fault my players’ effort and determination. Despite the controversial decisions, they fought with all their hearts. This match showcased our character as a team,” praised Okoth.

    Shabana FC’s fervent supporters echoed Okoth’s sentiments, applauding the players for their valiant performance. James Omari, a devoted fan, highlighted the team’s resilience in the face of adversity. “Our players exhibited extraordinary courage. We may have lost the match, but their bravery has won our hearts. We stand by them, no matter what,” declared Omari.

    Another passionate supporter, James Maribo, emphasized the need for unwavering support from the fans, especially during challenging times. “This is the moment when our players need us the most. Let’s continue backing them, showing them that we believe in their abilities. Together, we can overcome any obstacle,” urged Maribo.

    Amidst the challenges, Shabana FC found solace in the steadfast support from their sponsors, Bangbet. The Sh20 million sponsorship deal, initiated before the season commenced, has provided the team with vital resources and financial stability. Bangbet’s commitment to grassroots football and community development resonates deeply with Shabana FC’s ethos.

    “Our partnership with Bangbet is more than just a sponsorship; it’s a shared vision to uplift our community through sports. Their support empowers our players and motivates them to excel. We are immensely grateful for their belief in our team,” expressed Okoth, acknowledging the significant role played by the sponsors.

    As the season progresses, Shabana FC remains undeterred by challenges, standing tall with their heads held high. With the unwavering support of their passionate fans and the steadfast backing of sponsors like Bangbet, Shabana FC faces the future with optimism and determination. The team’s courageous stand against Gor Mahia, amidst controversial circumstances, serves as a testament to their spirit and resilience, laying the foundation for a promising journey ahead.

  • Woosh Company Commenced Countrywide One Million Tree Planting Initiative

    Woosh Company Commenced Countrywide One Million Tree Planting Initiative

    WOOSH team has kick started a countrywide tree planting in an initiative dabbed #OneMillionTrees. The Project is an initiative that entails a mega plan of planting over one million trees over a period of time. The WOOSH Team started off at Kereita Forest and with the help of government officers from Kenya Forestry, Kereita Wilderness and the community, they planted a THOUSAND trees.

    Woosh is a consumer goods brand with an international trading and branding services group based in Nairobi, Kenya, founded in 2018 with the vision to establish high-quality local African brands, to lead a fashionable lifestyle with a strong attitude, and to grow up together with the younger generation in Africa.

    The Company has a mission to give back to Kenyan society and grow with the new generation. Woosh employs over 200 Kenyan youths including new graduates from top universities in Nairobi and we are trying to feed more Kenyan families. We are also providing more job opportunities for creatives, sales, accountants, admins, riders, drivers and many other positions.

    The team chose Kereita Forest due to its historical nature. The forest, which is located in Kiambu County, was used as a hideout for the Mau Mau. Since independence, and the fact that the area was known to be MauMau hideout, it has been regarded as a site or a place of interest. The place has multiple caves, which the MauMau fighters could have used as their hide outs and also as shelter. The Forest is also a hub of trees with medicinal value and more than 200 species of birds, also it’s known as the haven for the Bird-watchers. Kereita forest favours the tourists who come to pay the visit to the forest with several activities to be done by them during their safari.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Kereita forest covers an area of 4,720 ha, of which 75 % is indigenous forest, 8 % is exotic forest, the rest being bamboo, shrubland and some herbaceous trees. Kereita forest contributes a huge percentage of water that Nairobians consume.

     

    However, statistics shows that since the start of human civilization, 46% of trees from the forest cover have been cleared.

     

    In 2019 alone, the country lost thousands of acres of tree cover to deforestation, logging and fires — equivalent to a soccer field of trees every six seconds.

     

    New findings suggest that deforestation, alongside rising temperatures, is transforming what’s left of the forests, keeping trees smaller and younger.

     

     

    Woosh is a disposable E-Cigarette that was first unveiled in Kenya in October 2022. Woosh is not just a vape it’s a lifestyle, it’s a vape once you get your hands on it you don’t want to let go. The new design of super cool hidden lighting seamless on the surface of our small gold bar and blinks when the vape is being smoked, making you a true trend-setter.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Woosh E-cigarettes are battery-operated devices shaped like gold bar that provide a way to get nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive drug (it stimulates and relaxes) that is naturally found in tobacco.

    The most popular way for people to take in nicotine is to inhale it by smoking cigarettes. Woosh Ecigarettes also allow nicotine to be inhaled, but they work by heating a liquid cartridge containing nicotine, flavors, and other chemicals into a vapor. Because e-cigarettes heat a liquid instead of tobacco, what is released is considered smokeless. Woosh provide 3% Nicotine and around 2000 puffs.

     

    https://www.wooshnow.com/

  • Presidential Nominees Grilled, Ambassadors-in-Waiting Face Rigorous Vetting

    In a meticulous vetting process led by Belgut MP Hon. Nelson Koech, the Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations scrutinized four Presidential nominees for key diplomatic positions.

    Ms. Fouzia Abdirahman Abass (Bern, Switzerland)
    Ms. Fouzia Abdirahman Abass (Bern, Switzerland)

    The nominees, Ms. Fouzia Abdirahman Abass (Bern, Switzerland), Amb. Betty Chebet Cherwon (Paris, France), Amb. Fredrick Lusambili Matwanga (Rome, Italy), and Amb. Angeline Kavindu Musili (Stockholm, Sweden), faced a barrage of questions to evaluate their suitability for the roles and understanding of Kenya’s diplomatic priorities.

    During the heated session, Amb. Betty Chebet Cherwon, a seasoned diplomat, defended her candidacy by outlining her plans to enhance economic diplomacy between Kenya and France. With a background as the chief protocol officer at the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs since 2019 and previous experience as a Counselor at the Kenyan Embassy in Berlin, she emphasized her commitment to marketing Kenya as a favorable trading partner in Paris.

    Additionally, she convinced the members that she is set to leverage Paris’s significance in climate change affairs to bolster Kenya’s efforts in combating climate change.

    Ms. Fouzia Abdirahman Abbas, a former Chief Procurement Officer at the United Nations, expressed her intent to utilize her extensive diplomatic skills to forge strategic partnerships between Kenya and Switzerland.

    Amb. Betty Chebet Cherwon (Paris, France)
    Amb. Betty Chebet Cherwon (Paris, France)

    With a focus on trade, scientific research, and education, she highlighted her vision before the members on how she would be of value to help strengthen collaboration between the two nations.

    Ms. Abass deeply emphasized her dedication to economic diplomacy, aiming to bridge the trade gap between Kenya and France, utilizing the vibrant trade environment in Paris.

    Amb. Fredrick Lusambili Matwanga, currently serving as the Director for Economic and Commercial Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, showcased his expertise in economic affairs.

    Matwanga, having previously worked at the Kenyan UN Mission in Geneva, hinted at his experience in the position to contribute significantly to Kenya’s economic diplomacy initiatives.

    Amb. Fredrick Lusambili Matwanga (Rome, Italy)
    Amb. Fredrick Lusambili Matwanga (Rome, Italy)

    Amb. Angeline Kavindu Musili’s vetting surprised the committee with her rigorous experience and well-versed experience, qualifications, and plans for the diplomatic post in Stockholm, Sweden.

    The nominees’ wealth, was disclosed during the vetting process and all were tax compliant and other key requirements as confirmed. As the vetting sessions continue, the nation watches closely, anticipating the appointment of capable and dedicated diplomats to represent Kenya’s interests on the global stage.

    “It is important that if you are appointed, you do as much as possible to help ease the pressure back home. We, for instance, are having a strain on the dollar. You will have your work clearly cut out if you are approved. However, we wait for the collective wisdom of this Committee when we retreat to draft a Report on your suitability,” said Hon. Koech.

    In a diligent effort to assess the suitability of the 27 nominees, the vetting process is entering its final week, with closure anticipated on Thursday, November 2, 2023.

    Following the rigorous vetting sessions, the Committee is poised to present its comprehensive Report on or before November 8, 2023, to ensure timely submission so that the House can conscientiously deliberate on the matter within the statutory timelines.

    Angeline Kavindu Musili (Stockholm, Sweden)
    Angeline Kavindu Musili (Stockholm, Sweden)

  • NHIF CEO Elijah Wachira Promises Transparency and Accountability Amidst Transition Challenges

    In his new role as Chief Executive Officer of the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), Mr. Elijah Wachira has been entrusted with a crucial task – overseeing the fund’s transition to the National Social Authority (NSA) and ensuring positive changes in service delivery. During a session at the Parliament buildings, members of the Public Investments Committee on Social Services Administration and Agriculture, led by Chairperson Hon. Emanuel Wangwe (Navakholo), expressed concerns about missing documents necessary for recovering public funds lost due to fraud under Mr. Wachira’s predecessors.

    Responding to these concerns, Mr. Wachira assured the Committee that he has diligently worked to locate the required documents, addressing 99% of the requests, and even retrieving historical records. He emphasized his commitment to collaborating with the Committee to address audit queries and investigate misuse of public money, promising transparency and accountability.

    The Committee raised various issues from the Auditor-General’s report, including double payments and overpayments in special programs like Linda Mama, as highlighted by Hon. Peter Masara (Suna West). Additionally, Hon. Geoffrey Wandeto (Tetu) questioned the payment schedule from Amaco insurance firm concerning an NHIF vehicle involved in an accident. He opposed the release of the Ksh 4 million claim in installments, suggesting NHIF engage the Insurance Regulatory Authority for resolution.

    In response, the CEO requested the Committee’s patience to provide factual reports on all the matters raised, including fraudulent hospital claims and payments. He committed to presenting these reports during the next Committee session. This would also encompass responses related to irregular payments of acting allowances, failure to settle legal expenses, delayed surrender of temporary imprest, unsupported expenditures, budgetary control, performance, and long outstanding return-to-drawer cheques.

    “The payment schedule from this insurance firm should be rejected by NHIF, Chair. Any reputable insurance company should have the capacity to handle liabilities, and the Ksh 4 million claimed by NHIF should have been paid in full, not in installments as it is currently being done. NHIF should have engaged the Insurance Regulatory Authority to address this issue,” Hon. Wandeto emphasized.

    Mr. Wachira acknowledged the challenges faced during the transition, particularly affecting operations like officer promotions in acting positions, emphasizing that these issues might take longer to resolve due to the ongoing changes within the organization. He assured the Committee of his dedication to resolving these matters transparently and efficiently, working collaboratively to uphold the integrity of NHIF during this crucial period of transition.

  • Kirima land ownership challenged in court by Hon Babu Owino and Karauri

    MP for Embakasi East Hon Babu Owino and Kasarani Hon Capt Ronald Karauri have stated their intention to file a stay of execution against a vacation order issued by the Environment and Land Court on 23rd October 2023 in respect of land belonging to the late Nairobi businessman Gershon Kirima. The ruling declared the late businessman the rightful owner of the land and ordered residents to vacate it by 31st Dec 2023, after which their homes would be demolished. The order affects Njiru, Chokaa, and Mihango areas that fall within the two MPs’ constituencies.

    In addition to the stay of execution, the two MPs, through lawyers, are challenging the ownership of the land. Speaking during a press conference held at the Milimani Law Courts in Nairobi today, Hon Owino said: “We have come here to prove to the court that this said parcel of land does not belong to the Kirima family, but it belongs to one Domenico De Masi. The person who is in charge [of the land] as we speak is called Barnado Demasi. We have come to file an application and to get stay orders so that our constituents can be safe.”

    Advocate Wandaru representing Domenico De Masi said the evidence showed that the disputed land was obtained fraudulently. “It is very clear that the land [title] by the Kirima family was obtained fraudulently. How did they come to own the land when it is owned by Domenico De Masi and the ownership has since devolved to his descendant represented by Barnado? Those are the facts that we have presented in court and we believe we will get justice They [the owners] have an arrangement with the constituents of Hon Owino and Hon Karauri, that [states that] even as they get back their land, they will have a way of making
    sure the residents get their titles.”

    Hon Karauri added: “If they [the residents] are going to negotiate, they must negotiate with the rightful owners of the land. The people of Kasarani and Embakasi East need to feel protected by the same government so they pay taxes too. As members of Parliament, as their representatives, the only reason we are here is to ensure that they get a fair hearing.”

    Administrators of the estate of the late businessman have been in protracted litigation with the residents, seeking the removal of high-rise buildings and residential neighborhoods that were, according to the administrators, constructed there illegally.

  •  Anc Nrb branch embark on massive recruitment drive

     Anc Nrb branch embark on massive recruitment drive

    By Fred Maingi 

    The Amani National congress (ANC) Nairobi county is targeting to recruit more members to make the party more vibrant ahead of the forthcoming elections
    The party has also clarified that they will not fold despite pressure from their umbrella body Kenya Kwanza Alliance
    ANC Nairobi county acting chairman Johnstone Ishuga(pictured) said the stage is fully set to turn around the party and make it more active, stronger and vibrant even down in the grassroot level.

    Flanked by several party members led by Francis Makambo Nyangweso, Joseph Mbalia, Justus Kegode, and Oscar Binyenya, the acting Chairman urged interested members to register in large numbers by pressing *509#0k in order to boost the party.
    Ishuga who replaced Brian Mulama who was promoted to be a cabinet secretary for roads & public works(mobility) said they are going to conduct massive recruitment to boost the party under their Party leader Hon. Issa Timamy.

    During the elections held on Oct. 5th 2023, which was attended by the party National Secretary General Omboko Milema, members agreed to work together for the sake of the party unity
    A party top member Francis Makambo disclosed that the Nrb branch acting chairman will occupy the seat on a three month temperory basis pending elections.

    “lts members who will decide, they might even mandate him to carry on with his position or decide for fresh elections to fill the position . However, we Ave confidence with Ishuga, we feel he is capable to occupy the seat” observed Makambo