The National Environment Management Authority under the wise leadership of Managing Director Mamo Boru Mamo on Saturday led a global clean up in an auspicious occasion in Nanyuki.
“Am glad that Kenya is taking the lead in matters of waste management and NEMA is working very closely with various partners to ensure a clean and safe environment for all. NEMA has just started implementing the Sustainable Waste Management Act 2022. This initiative calls for a Green revolution in Kenya while embracing responsible behavior and Extended Producer Responsibility.
The rallying call here is; Take responsibility, Think Green, and Think Circularity. Your responsibility as a producer goes beyond the product life, you must mitigate pollution think Green by minimizing environmental impacts, and embrace circularity by ensuring that your product does not end up in the environment but remains in the value chain for a long time.
At the event, Nema Kenya Chairman, Emilio Mugo was represented by Sophia Matura, Vice Chairperson at WorldCleanupDay2023 in Nanyuki, Laikipia County.
By Fred Maingi
It was joy and celebration after WAMA International Group, a holding company that oversees franchise operations across Africa celebrated a successful partnership with ALDO Group International by opening the second ALDO Store in Nairobi at Westgate Mall. The first store opened its doors on April 15th at The Sarit Center Mall.
WAMA International has been granted the exclusive license to establish, own, and operate ALDO stores in Kenya. This follows the Distribution Agreement between ALDO Group International and Gedeon & Co SARL.
WAMA International’sexpansion plans in East Africa continue to flourish with this exciting partnership
following their successful ventures with various brands in Libya, Rwanda, and Uganda.
The ALDO Group International brings a wide range of fashion footwear and accessories all offered at accessible prices. This partnership will pave the way for up to four new stores to open soon, as WAMA
International seeks to expand its presence in the region.
WAMA International expressed their excitement over the new partnership, which they believe will bring the latest fashion trends and top-quality products to the Kenyan market.
The company is committed to providing a unique shopping experience to its customers and is confident that the venture will be a success.
The opening of the second ALDO store in Kenya is a significant milestone for the fashion industry in the region. Customers can expect special promotional discounts for the grand opening, and the brand promises a unique shopping experience that has made it a worldwide destination for on-trend fashion footwear and
accessories.
National Assembly Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has urged the Centre for Parliamentary Studies (CPST) to develop concise courses aimed at helping journalists covering parliamentary proceedings gain a comprehensive understanding of its traditions, activities, and events.
Hon Wetang’ula as he called for specialised training for journalists covering Parliament said CPST needs to develop tailored refresher courses for the scribes to enable them understand Parliament better for accurate reporting.
“Parliamentary Service Commission (PSC) will budget for the training programmes to make it affordable for the media Houses or journalists seeking knowledge from the institution,” he added.
He noted that Parliament will collaborate with the Media Houses to train their parliamentary reporters to ensure visibility of the House, accurate and timely desemination of information to the public.
“As Parliament we want to get better out of the Media the way they expect to get better out of us. This can only work if we have more informed journalists covering Parliament proceedings,” said the Speaker.
Hon Wetang’ula made the remarks when he officially opened the National Assembly Leadership and Editor’s Retreat in Mombasa today.
The retreat whose theme is Bridging the Dissemination Gap:News Editors and Parliament, is aimed at fostering responsible journalism and strengthening the relationship between the Media and Parliament.
MPs Hon. Mohammed Adow (Wajir South) and Hon. John Kiarie (Dagoreti South), National Assembly Clerk Mr. Samuel Njoroge, Director General Mr Clement Nyandiere, Editors from various Media Houses and Kenya Parliamentary Journalists Association chairman Duncan Kheamba were among key people who attended the retreat.
The Speaker noted that Media were key partners in dissemination of information about parliamentary proceedings and operations and assured them that their rights will be protected.
“Parliament under my watch will always protect Media rights and freedom but I urge journalists to practice responsible journalism for the good of both of us,” he added.
Hon. Wetang’ula stressed the importance of upholding the law and the role of the media in shaping the nation’s discourse.
While quoting reknown writer Winston Churchill’s saying, “Politicians love two things – seeing their name in the media and their faces on television”, the Speaker asked journalists to be fair and responsible while covering parliamentary proceedings.
Highlighting the evolving landscape of media technology, Hon. Wetang’ula acknowledged the challenges posed by the digital divide, emphasizing that many people still lack access to smartphones and consequently miss out on important parliamentary proceedings.
“The fidelity of residents to a media house that caters to their preferences remains strong,” said Hon. Wetang’ula as he challenged Media outlets to find innovative ways to reach those who are digitally disadvantaged.
Speaking on the global perception of the media, Hon. Wetang’ula acknowledged the love-hate relationship that the industry often faces, underlining its critical role in holding those in power accountable.
He expressed concern over the harassment and violence faced by media practitioners worldwide noting that journalists should not be cowed by such incidents.
Reflecting on the historical development of media technology, from telegrams to television, Hon. Wetang’ula stressed the need for specialized training for journalists covering parliamentary matters effectively.
Hon. Wetang’ula also urged veteran journalists to mentor and guide the younger generation, emphasizing the importance of encouragement in their career development.
“As Parliament, we view the media as our partners,” Hon. Wetang’ula stated, revealing plans to establish a media center within the Parliament building to facilitate collaboration and effective communication.
He noted the progress made in ensuring better working conditions for employees at Parliament and encouraged editors to consider writing books about parliamentary proceedings to provide insights into the legislative process.
Hon. Wetang’ula asked journalists to focus on diverse stories that showcase the positive aspects of Kenyan society, beyond political rivalries.
He proposed a shift in media coverage to dedicate more headlines to human interest stories and less to politics.
In conclusion, Hon. Wetang’ula expressed his respect for the media as a valuable friend and encouraged journalists to continue their vital role in shaping the nation’s narrative.
He affirmed Parliament’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of journalists as they report on the workings of the House.
Ronald Shelukindo – Marketing,MultiChoice Elisha Kamau-PR MultiChoice Mngr Nzola Miranda-MD, Glauco Ferreira- Reg. Dir Northern Africa MultiChoice.
By Mellisa Mong’ina
MultiChoice Kenya (MCK) has assured the protection of all local content producers from piracy by involving law enforcement authorities saying that it is a threat that destroys local content production.
Speaking in Nairobi on Monday during the launch of Two Brand New Local Shows, Zari & Ka-Siri, on Maisha Magic Plus, Nzola Miranda the Managing Director of Multichoice Kenya said that content rich in content is consumed illegally
“We are working with law enforcement authorities to ensure the enforcement of piracy of local content is protected and also ready to embrace digital transformation,” said Miranda.
He added that their biggest challenge currently is streaming piracy which is a bit more difficult as compared to the past when it was easy to spot it because of the use of cables going out of buildings through to people’s homes
“80 percent of our piracy now is what we call streaming piracy, but we are ready and working with technology and with our parent company which is at the forefront of technology,” added Miranda
Miranda added that they have already developed many technologies to support streaming piracy as it cannot be stopped completely.
“We have two strong streaming products that are catering to that streaming technology, right here in Kenya, 10 percent of our base is already streaming our content and in the next five years we are going to grow more massively,” said Miranda.
According to Miranda, local stories create local jobs and also change narratives. “Local content is growing and we are happy to listen to what we have,” he added.
Multichoice Kenya (MCK) is currently the country’s leading pay TV and entertainment provider, it is also a joint venture between MultiChoice Africa and the Kenyan Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), The two shows will be accessible on Maisha Magic Plus which is now available on DStv Access and GOtv Plus and up in a campaign dubbed “Tumefungulia Magic”
“Ka-Siri”, a telenovela explores the proverbial theme of “the rich also cry”. The gripping story unfolds around an extremely wealthy man, Zula, who is killed in a home invasion, leaving behind a home that is wrapped in passion, lies, discoveries, secrets, and shocking revelations. Viewers will embark on a rollercoaster of drama to uncover who ultimately claims victory in the end. Ka-Siri” boasts an impressive lineup of over 100 episodes, promising a long-lasting and captivating journey for its audience. Episodes will air every Monday to Wednesday at 19:30 EAT from Monday 9 October 2023,”.
Zari is a modern Cinderella story that follows the story of Nina, a young woman whose rightful family – and fortune are hidden from her. Will Nina and her true biological father, Dylan ever be reunited and will her adopted family pay for their duplicity? Zari premieres on Monday 23 October 2023 and will air every Monday to Friday at 20:30 EAT.
“The launch of these new local shows underscores MultiChoice’s unwavering commitment to delivering family-friendly exceptional entertainment experiences to its viewers with content that resonates with them,” noted Miranda,
The producer of both shows, Rashid Abdullah expressed his appreciation to MultiChoice Kenya for the support to local productions in Kenya. “Film production is very expensive and as filmmakers, investing and putting money behind productions is not easy, access to finance and capital too has many barriers,” he revealed.
“As industry players, we are delighted to have partners like MultiChoice who allow Kenyans tell their own stories that are authentic are speak to the cultural and societal nuances that are alive in them while creating jobs for actors, actresses, chefs, transporters, real estate owners, make-up artists, video editors, sound producers, camera crew, set designers among others in the film ecosystem.”
Speaking to MultiChoice Kenya’s investment, in local content, Timothy Okwaro, Channel Director East and Southern Africa remarked, “With an annual investment of over $5m in content production and licensing, translating into well over 5,600 hours of content annually, we have lined up some of the biggest, most exciting shows that will give our viewers more choice and more entertainment.”
“Since 2015, we have brought to our customers over 89 shows (35 commissioned and 52 licensed), with up to 15 shows expected between April this year and March 2024, in other words, Tumefungulia Magic” Okwaro concluded.
The Speaker of the National Assembly, accompanied by a group of Members of Parliament, attended an important event hosted by Hon. Omar Mwinyi, the Changamwe MP. This event was the inauguration of a state-of-the-art swimming pool, funded through the NG-CDF, benefiting public schools in Changamwe.
This facility aims to nurture swimming talents among the local youth.
“I ask you Hon. Members to expand the responsibility of the NG-CDF because in many counties you visit the noticeable projects like schools and other projects are done by the NG-CDF as compared to the county governments, as anything you do to strengthen the NG-CDF I will be with you,” said the Speaker.
During the event, the Speaker mentioned his long-standing friendship with Hon. Mwinyi and their connection to the late Vice President Kijana Wamalwa.
He emphasized the importance of the NG-CDF in supporting various development projects and encouraged Honorable Members to explore expanding its mandate, with his commitment to embedding it in the Constitution to reduce legal disputes.
“We must pigeonhole and protect resources to every development area,” said the Speaker. The President, Dr William Ruto, was noted as a staunch supporter of the NG-CDF.
The Speaker called upon the people of Changamwe to support the President and pray for peace and unity in the country.
Furthermore, he expressed support for Hon. Mwinyi’s initiatives and urged MCAs to work on legislation for a pension plan similar to that of Members of Parliament.
Hon Wetangula mentioned a courtesy call from a Bi-Partisan team led by Hon. Kalonzo Musyoka and the Leader of the Majority party, discussing progress on issues related to Parliament.
He pledged to inform the President about local leaders’ engagement in the privatization of the port and the revival of the oil refinery, seeking their input.
Over the weekend, the Senate Committee on Delegated Legislation, led by Tharaka-Nithi Senator Mwenda Gataya Mo Fire, convened a two-day consultative meeting in Mombasa County.
The committee engaged with members of the Taskforce on the Development of the Public Finance Management (Disaster Risk Management Fund) Regulations, 2023, led by The National Treasury Planning PS, Chris Kiptoo. The primary agenda was to deliberate on the Proposed Public Finance Management (Disaster Risk Management Fund) Regulations, 2023.
The Disaster Risk Management Fund (DRM) is a critical initiative aimed at bolstering Kenya’s preparedness and response to natural and man-made disasters. Kenya has, in recent years, grappled with severe droughts, floods, landslides, terrorism, and other calamities, resulting in loss of lives, displacement of people, property destruction, and long-term negative repercussions. This fund holds the potential to provide timely aid and support to disaster victims, alleviating human suffering and ultimately saving lives.
Senator Gataya highlighted the Senate’s pivotal role in shaping legislation.
He stressed, “As members of the Senate Delegated Legislation Committee, we are tasked with ensuring that proposed Regulations adhere to principles of transparency, accountability, and equity. We must scrutinize these Regulations in-depth to ensure they serve their intended purpose without compromising these fundamental principles.”
Senator Gataya emphasized the committee’s mandate, stating, “The Senate Select Committee on Delegated Legislation is established under Standing Order No. 195(1). Its core responsibility is to scrutinize instruments submitted to the House to ensure alignment with the Constitution of Kenya, the Statutory Instruments Act 2013, and all other relevant laws, rules, and regulations.”
The rising frequency and severity of natural disasters, coupled with their substantial economic impacts, have underscored the urgency of disaster risk financing. Currently, Kenya’s response to disasters has been primarily reactive and short-term due to deficiencies in legal and institutional frameworks, as well as inadequate investment in risk reduction strategies.
To address these shortcomings, the government has established policy, legal, and institutional frameworks for disaster risk management. The National Disaster Risk Management (DRM) Policy, one such framework, seeks to create a disaster-resilient nation through a robust disaster risk management system that safeguards Kenya’s national development achievements.
PS Chris Kiptoo, represented by Mr. Michael Kageka, acknowledged the Senate’s vital role in examining proposed regulations. “This long-anticipated meeting enables the Senate to ensure that the proposed regulations meet legislative requirements,” he remarked. “These regulations aim to establish a legislative framework for disaster risk management, enhance effective coordination of disaster preparedness, prevention, response, mitigation, and recovery, and reduce disaster risks and vulnerabilities at the national and county levels.”
The introduction of a dedicated ex-ante financial mechanism will bolster Kenya’s ability to respond to disasters and mitigate their catastrophic physical and economic consequences. This mechanism will aggregate funds from various sources and bridge the funding gap.
Senator Gataya was joined at the meeting by Senators Mohamed Faki, Daniel Maanzo, Betty Montet, and Julius Murgor.
Principal Secretary, of Labour and Skills Development, Mr. Geoffrey Kaituko.PHOTO/File.
A House Committee has appealed to all stakeholders that deal with the placement of migrant workers abroad to work together towards improving the welfare of Kenyan migrant workers.
Noting that there is sustained goodwill by the government on the matter, the Committee on Diaspora Affairs and Migrant Workers called on the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection to expedite the ongoing establishment of Bilateral Labour Agreements (BLAs).
The lawmakers were speaking during a roundtable engagement with Labour Ministry Officials led by the Principal Secretary, of Labour and Skills Development, Mr. Geoffrey Kaituko, Representatives of the Association of Skilled Migrant Agencies of Kenya (ASMAK), and the Kenya Association of Private Employment Agencies (KAPEA).
Committee Members led by the Chairperson, Hon. Lydia Haika Mizighi ( Taita Taveta) want the Ministry to involve all stakeholders including recruitment agencies not just in the development of the BLAs but also in the development of the proposed Labour Migration Management Bill, which is currently under cabinet consideration.
“Private Recruitment Agencies are doing a critical job in helping address our unemployment challenges. I therefore want to urge the Ministry to consider their input during the development of BLAs”, the Chair urged.
PS Kaituko in response acknowledged that in the past there had been hostility between the ministry officials and the recruitment agencies. He disclosed to the Members that since the Committee initiated the round table engagements, a number of pending issues including the delay in renewal of licenses had been resolved.
“Hon. Members, my undertaking is that we shall engage the Private Recruitment Agencies through their legitimate office holders. We really want to work with all agencies to ensure that we connect them with job placements abroad”, the PS undertook.
At the same time, the Committee has called on all stakeholders to scale up the placement of more skilled professionals as opposed to their unskilled counterparts, to boost the professional brand name of Kenya.
The Legislators noted that the reputation of Kenya as a market for migrant workers has been dented by run-away migrant workers, Members emphasized that the government stands a better chance when negotiating for improved welfare of migrant workers if the workers involved are from skilled and professional cadres.
The Members called on the Ministry of Labour and recruitment agencies alike to establish a monitoring system and to extend psychosocial support to those distressed while working abroad as well as returnees to ensure they are re-integrated into society once their contracts end or are terminated.
Drawing analogies from how the welfare system for migrant workers is run by the government of the Philippines’, the lawmakers urged the labor ministry to consider deploying more attachés to improve popular labor markets for Kenya to frequently check on the welfare of workers.
Earlier on, representatives from the recruitment agencies had decried the loss of placement opportunities for Kenyan migrant workers due to perennial runaway cases.
“The government needs to criminalize the act of run-away. It has caused us a lot of harm in our traditional Labour markets. Qatar has already stopped issuing domestic workers’ visas due to rampant cases of run-away workers”, held Mr. Francis Wahome from ASMAK.
With regard to monitoring the operations of recruiting agencies, PS Kaituko and the Members stressed the need for all recruitment agencies to operate within the existing regulatory framework.
Cleanshelf Supermarkets Limited in South B Nairobi staff cutting the cake. Photo/Courtesy
Cleanshelf Supermarkets Limited, a leading Customer Service oriented retail chain is excited to announce the opening of its 15th branch in Nairobi South B. This new addition to the Cleanshelf family is a testament to the company’s commitment to serving local communities and providing top-notch shopping experiences and quality products to its valued customers.
From its inception in 2002, Cleanshelf Supermarkets Ltd has been dedicated to offering a diverse range of high-quality products under one roof, tailored to meet its customers’ unique needs and preferences. The new Nairobi South B branch exemplifies this commitment, featuring a spacious layout, modern amenities, and a vast selection of goods that cater to the vibrant community of South B and its surroundings.
“We are thrilled to open our doors in Nairobi South B and become a part of this vibrant community,” said Mr. Timothy Kihara, the Managing Director/CEO of Cleanshelf Supermarket. “This branch represents our dedication to providing convenient access to everyday essentials while maintaining our high standards of service and product quality.”
During the grand opening, shoppers have treated to live entertainment, enticing food tastings, and exciting giveaways. Moreover, Cleanshelf Supermarkets partnered with its esteemed suppliers to offer exclusive deals and discounts, making the opening day shopping experience truly special for all attendees.
As Cleanshelf Supermarkets continues to expand its physical store footprint, it remains equally committed to enhancing its online presence. The company’s user-friendly and intuitive website have garnered praise for its seamless shopping experience, providing customers with the convenience of shopping from the comfort of their homes.
In recognition of its excellence in integrating technology and providing top-tier customer service, Cleanshelf Supermarkets was recently honoured with the prestigious e-Commerce Award 2023 by the Kenya e-Commerce Awards. Cleanshelf e-Commerce platform won the ‘Gold Winner’ Award for the ‘Best eCommerce Customer Service Team.’ The company was also feted with the ‘Bronze Winner’ award under the ‘Best Supermarket/Hypermarkets eCommerce Website.
“We are humbled to receive the e-Commerce Award 2023, which highlights our efforts to deliver a seamless and convenient online shopping experience. These awards are a testament to our relentless pursuit of innovation and commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our digitally-savvy customers,” said Mr. Kihara.
He added: “These awards further motivate us to continue striving for excellence as we grow both in the physical and digital retail domains.”
Cleanshelf Supermarkets extends its heartfelt gratitude to its loyal customers, dedicated staff and supportive suppliers, and partners for their continuous encouragement and trust. The company remains focused on its mission to provide unparalleled service and quality offerings, both through its growing physical store network and its user-friendly e-commerce platforms.
Saudi Ministry of Transport, and the Transport General Authority in a conference.
Although her hopes of becoming a Secretary General did not materialize, she remains committed to bringing about significant reforms in the maritime sector.
Amb. Nancy Karigithu continues to receive honors and recognition for her dedicated leadership in the maritime industry.
Ambassador Nancy Karigithu is highly regarded as a dedicated leader in Kenya, serving as Ambassador and Special Envoy for Maritime Affairs and the Blue Economy.
During a recent maritime conference in Jeddah, Ambassador Karigithu engaged with fellow delegates to address critical issues in the maritime industry. The conference’s primary focus was the industry’s transition to cleaner fuels as a means to combat climate change and ensure sustainable global growth.
Ambassador Nancy expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, stating, “It was an honor to participate in the Sustainable Maritime Conference held last week in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The conference centered around the theme ‘Innovation for a Greener Future.’ Our panel emphasized the essential role of transitioning to cleaner fuels in the maritime industry to tackle climate change and promote sustainability. Additionally, we highlighted the potential benefits of adopting a maritime circular economy model to ensure environmental responsibility and long-term sustainability.”
She went on to elaborate on the concept, explaining, “This model involves, among other things, optimizing material usage within the industry, prolonging the circulation of materials through practices such as re-use, recycling, and up-cycling, adopting regenerative nature-based solutions, considering the end of ships’ useful service life, and most importantly, fostering sustainable collaboration between ports and port-city stakeholders. This collaboration aims to develop and implement innovative, dynamic, and sustainable systems.”
Furthermore, the transformation panel recognized the imperative need for collaboration among governments, industry players, and stakeholders. This collaboration would involve investments in research, capacity building, innovation, and the formulation of supportive policies.
Ambassador Karigithu commended the Saudi Ministry of Transport, the Transport General Authority, and all the supporting partners for their efforts in organizing such informative conferences. She expressed hope for more such conferences in the future to facilitate the dissemination of knowledge and information within the maritime sector, ultimately contributing to its growth and development.
A general view of damage following a powerful earthquake in Amizmiz, Morocco, Sept. 9 2023. Photo REUTERS
The death toll resulting from the devastating earthquake that struck Morocco last Friday has surpassed 2,000, according to authorities.
There are concerns that this number may continue to rise as rescue teams encounter difficulties reaching remote areas that have been severely impacted.
The Interior Ministry of Morocco has officially confirmed that at least 2,012 individuals have lost their lives due to the powerful tremor. The majority of these casualties occurred in Marrakech and five nearby provinces, all close to the earthquake’s epicenter.
Additionally, the ministry has reported that 2,059 people have been injured, with 1,404 in critical condition. This earthquake, measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale, is the most significant to hit Morocco in the past 120 years. It caused panic and disbelief among the population, with reports of falling dishes and wall hangings, as well as people being knocked off their feet. The quake also led to the collapse of stone and masonry walls, burying entire communities in rubble.
Each town nestled along the steep and winding switchbacks of the High Atlas mountains experienced a similar scene of devastation. Houses crumbled inward, and amidst this tragedy, parents wept while young boys, wearing helmets, carried the deceased through the streets.
In the remote villages, like those in the drought-stricken Ouargane Valley, isolation became a harsh reality as they lost access to electricity and cellphone service.
As the day progressed, residents gathered outside to mourn their neighbors, document the destruction on their mobile phones, and share words of hope, saying, “May God protect us.”
In the historic city of Marrakech, scenes of anxiety unfolded on state television as people hesitated to re-enter buildings that might still pose a threat due to instability.
Notably, Marrakech’s renowned Koutoubia Mosque, a 12th-century marvel, sustained damage, though the full extent remained uncertain. Its 69-meter (226-foot) minaret, known as the “roof of Marrakech,” faced potential harm. Moroccans also shared videos online, revealing damage to sections of the iconic red walls surrounding the old city, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
