Kenyaleo.co.ke

Author: David Bogonko Nyokang’i

  • Mamo Appears Before Senate Lands Committee

    The Director General of the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Mamo Boru Mamo on Thursday appeared before the senate committee on lands.

    Mr. Mamo Boru in his response on actions taken my NEMA to ensure sustained enforcement of law and regulations pertaining to sand harvesting in Machakos and Kitui a statement sought by Nominated Senator Hon. Tabitha Mutinda on the utilisationand use of sand in Kitui, affirmed to the Committee that, NEMA and County Government conduct regular inspections to minimize illegal sand harvesting.

    Mamo reported that the Authority has undertaken approximately 47 inspections in Machakos County and 35 inspections in Kitui County some of which have been on sand harvesting within the Counties.

    ‘’The Authority have been imposing punitive fines and penalties on offenders in law, restriction of sand harvesting and transportation working hours to daytime only (6am to 6pm) and promotion of construction of gabions and sand dams along the threatened river beds where sand harvesting is practiced sponsored by African Sand Foundation (NGO).’’ DG NEMA added.

    During the committee the Legislators recommend that the two Governors work hand in hand with National Environmental Management Authority, to ensure this menace of Sand harvesting is reduced in both Counties for the benefits of the residents and safe Environment.

    Director Mamo said that the reason as to why their is heavy harvest of sand is due to the government is on with the construction of affordable houses.

    Other Senators in attendance were, Vice Chair Sen. (Dr.) Lelegwe Ltumbesi, Sen. Johnes Mwaruma, Sen. Beatrice Ogolla, Sen. Agnes Kavindu, Sen. William Cheptumo and Sen. Mariam Omar. Senator Tabitha Mutinda who sought the Statement and Kitui Senator Enoch Wambua attended.

  • Chelimo Urges Leaders To Reason Together

    Chelimo Urges Leaders To Reason Together

    The leader of National Vision Party Engineer Chelimo has implored upon leaders to embrace the voice of reason rather than jeopardize our country.

    Reacting to the recently witnessed chaos during the Maandamano, Hon Chelimo cautioned those who call for destruction of property to cease.

    “What we witnessed in Mlolongo where the vandalized a section of the expressway was retrogressive. No Kenyan should damage our infrastructure which is a great enabler of economic transformation,” he advised.

    He told those leaders who feel aggrieved by anything to make use of the professional and legal means of addressing their grievances.

    “We have avenues such as courts or even the National Assembly where anybody is free to forward their issue and it will be looked into. Going to the roads and causing mayhem cannot address even the high cost of living,” he advised.

    He also advised the youths to shun being misused by some politicians to wreck havoc and destruction but rather they should involve themselves in constructive matters

  • Navigating New Horizons with 5G Network

    Navigating New Horizons with 5G Network

    Over the past two decades, Kenya has witnessed a remarkable evolution in its digital landscape, ushering in a transformative era of technological advancement. The journey began with simple flip feature phones, with barely 10 percent penetration in the early 2000s. A 2022 report by Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) reveals that almost half the population currently owns mobile devices.

    Widespread mobile connectivity has laid the ground for expanding digital services and innovation in various sectors. That is, with the growth of the internet and the emergence of 3G and 4G networks, there has been increased access to information, sparking the development of e-commerce platforms and digital marketplaces, providing opportunities for businesses to reach broader audiences and consumers to access a wide range of products and services conveniently across the globe.

    The Government, also recognizing the significance of a thriving digital economy, has taken bold steps to support its growth in the country. That has happened through the deployments of various initiatives such as the Digital Master plan (2022-2032), Constituency Innovation Hubs, and National Broadband Strategy, just to name a few. The government has made progress in enhancing ICT infrastructure development, fostering innovation, and deepening the sector’s contribution to overall socio-economic growth.

    As the 5G network gains traction in Kenya, it opens up limitless possibilities for the telco industry and the digital sphere, revolutionizing how we live, work, and do business as a society.

    How 5G will change the way we live

    5G is the fifth generation of mobile networks, which boasts the ability to deliver faster data transfer speeds, lower latency, and higher bandwidth bringing with it the promise of better reliability than its predecessors.

    With ultrafast speeds, 5G offers significantly faster download and upload speeds, up to multi-GigaBits per second (Gbps). This means users can now enjoy seamless streaming of high-definition video content, quick file downloads, smoother online gaming experiences, and real-time high-quality video calls without buffering delays.

    Undoubtedly, the fast and reliable speeds that 5G brings will also tremendously impact the remote work model that the Covid-19 pandemic forced upon us in 2020. Professionals will be able to collaborate and participate in virtual meetings in an improved and transformed way, utilizing the game-changing Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality technologies. Boosted productivity, increased work flexibility, and improved work-life balance are inherent in 5G, eventually leading to cost savings for businesses.

    Another impressive feature of 5G is its ultralow latency. By reducing the time it takes for data to travel between devices and the network, 5G will enable near-instantaneous communication, enhancing real-time communication. This will revolutionize key sectors such as healthcare and education, enabling equal access to all.

    In healthcare, for instance, 5G technology can enable remote consultations, remote monitoring, and real-time collaboration between medical professionals, leading to improved healthcare outcomes and reduced healthcare costs. For example, take a case where a surgeon cannot be physically present in a surgery room, yet their input is vital. The surgeon can still offer remote surgery assistance, guiding and controlling surgical instruments in real-time, thus, saving a life.

    In the education sector, 5G technology is set to enable immersive learning experiences through Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), providing students with access to educational resources and experiences that were not possible before. In other words, this means that a student in Marsabit County, Kenya, with access to the right devices, can now attend a lecture at Melbourne University, Australia, in real time.

    Further, because 5G networks can support a significantly larger number of connected devices simultaneously compared to previous generations, the expansion and evolution of Internet of Things (IoT) technology is imminent. This, in time, will increase the feasibility of initiatives geared towards improving urban planning and developments by the government. Smart Cities, for example, will become a realistic possibility by utilizing a network of connected devices, such as traffic sensors, surveillance cameras, and environmental monitors, to improve the quality and way of life of citizens.

    Moreover, since the 5G network can support massive machine-to-machine communication ensuring real-time data exchange and coordination, smart factories might be here with us soon. Consequently, this will mean improved efficiency, optimized production processes, and lessened human interventions in industries like manufacturing, supply chain, and logistics leading to cost savings and higher production in the sectors.

    Airtel Kenya’s commitment to innovation

    Driven by continuous evolution, at Airtel Kenya, we strive to remain at the forefront of innovation by investing in research to create unique and affordable products that cater to all our customers’ diverse needs and demands. Our primary goal is to transform the digital ecosystem in Kenya and contribute to bridging the digital divide in Africa. As evidence of our dedication to this mission, we recently launched the Airtel 5G network. With over 370 active sites in the country in 16 counties and 180 wards, we want to expand digital connectivity and inclusivity.

    In conclusion, while 5G deployment stands as one of the most revolutionary technological advancements of our time, it is imperative to acknowledge the various associated risks and security concerns, such as cyber security threats, data privacy concerns, and infrastructural vulnerabilities among others, as highlighted in the 2022 report by World Economic Forum.

    Therefore, sustained collaboration between network operators, the government, research institutes, academia, and other stakeholders is crucial to mitigate these challenges. Together, they can ensure adequate infrastructure development in Kenya and across Africa while providing users with peace of mind regarding its safe and secure usage, ultimately contributing to a steady uptake.

     

    By:

    Ashish Malhotra, Airtel Kenya MD.

  • LG Electronics Brings Cutting-Edge Dryers and Dishwashers to The Kenyan Market

    LG Electronics Brings Cutting-Edge Dryers and Dishwashers to The Kenyan Market

    LG Electronics East Africa has unveiled its state-of-the-art dryers and dishwashers for the Kenyan market with an aim to revolutionize how Kenyan households manage their laundry and dishwashing needs.

    This is part of the company’s commitment to enhance consumers’ lives through advanced technology and superior quality.

    Speaking during the rollout of the appliances, LG Electronics Managing Director Dongwon Lee said, “With our commitment to innovation and quality, we aim to elevate the daily lives of Kenyan consumers by providing them with cutting-edge appliances that deliver convenience, efficiency, and superior performance. We are confident that our dryers and dishwashers will transform the way Kenyan households manage their laundry and dishwashing tasks, simplifying their lives and freeing up valuable time.”

    The appliances known for their exceptional performance, energy efficiency, and sleek designs come embedded with cutting-edge features and smart functionalities and are designed to provide unparalleled convenience, time savings, and cleanliness.

    For instance, LG’s Heat Pump Dryers with exclusive DUAL Inverter technology provides industry-leading energy efficiency up to A+++-10% along with 10-year warranty. Equipped with 2 cylinders instead of single cylinder this provides the highest level of energy efficiency in the market while minimizing wrinkles and reducing energy consumption. The innovative Sensor Dry system detects moisture levels and adjusts drying time accordingly, preserving the quality of garments and preventing overdrying.

    On the other hand, dishwashers feature intelligent technologies with intuitive controls, adjustable racks, and a large load capacity that make kitchen clean-up a breeze. The LG QuadWash™, for instance, cleans up the dishes with a single wash from multiple angles, eliminating the need for pre-washing. The Inverter Direct Drive technology makes the dishwasher stable and minimizes noise level while the ThinQ™ application lets users control the machine remotely. The TrueSteam™ technology provides superior cleaning performance by removing stubborn stains and delivering spotless results while the adjustable racks and customizable storage options make it easy to accommodate various dish sizes and shapes.

    Besides, the appliances have been engineered to prioritize energy efficiency and sustainability. With eco-friendly features like the Inverter Direct Drive motor, which reduces energy consumption and noise levels, and the use of eco-friendly materials, the appliances are designed to minimize their environmental impact.

    At the same time, LG understands that appliances should perform exceptionally and complement modern homes’ aesthetics. With sleek, minimalist designs and premium finishes, the LG dryers and dishwashers add a touch of elegance to any kitchen or laundry room.

    The dryers and dishwashers are already available at authorized retailers and select LG brand stores across the country

    The dishwashers will retail between KES 134,000 and KES 200,000 while the dryers will retail at KES 138,000 to KES 190,000. Customers can visit LG.COM for more information on product availability, specifications, and pricing.

    LG Electronics East Africa has unveiled its state-of-the-art dryers and dishwashers for the Kenyan market with an aim to revolutionize how Kenyan households manage their laundry and dishwashing needs.

    This is part of the company’s commitment to enhance consumers’ lives through advanced technology and superior quality.

    Speaking during the rollout of the appliances, LG Electronics Managing Director Dongwon Lee said, “With our commitment to innovation and quality, we aim to elevate the daily lives of Kenyan consumers by providing them with cutting-edge appliances that deliver convenience, efficiency, and superior performance. We are confident that our dryers and dishwashers will transform the way Kenyan households manage their laundry and dishwashing tasks, simplifying their lives and freeing up valuable time.”

    The appliances known for their exceptional performance, energy efficiency, and sleek designs come embedded with cutting-edge features and smart functionalities and are designed to provide unparalleled convenience, time savings, and cleanliness.

    For instance, LG’s Heat Pump Dryers with exclusive DUAL Inverter technology provides industry-leading energy efficiency up to A+++-10% along with 10-year warranty. Equipped with 2 cylinders instead of single cylinder this provides the highest level of energy efficiency in the market while minimizing wrinkles and reducing energy consumption. The innovative Sensor Dry system detects moisture levels and adjusts drying time accordingly, preserving the quality of garments and preventing overdrying.

    On the other hand, dishwashers feature intelligent technologies with intuitive controls, adjustable racks, and a large load capacity that make kitchen clean-up a breeze. The LG QuadWash™, for instance, cleans up the dishes with a single wash from multiple angles, eliminating the need for pre-washing. The Inverter Direct Drive technology makes the dishwasher stable and minimizes noise level while the ThinQ™ application lets users control the machine remotely. The TrueSteam™ technology provides superior cleaning performance by removing stubborn stains and delivering spotless results while the adjustable racks and customizable storage options make it easy to accommodate various dish sizes and shapes.

    Besides, the appliances have been engineered to prioritize energy efficiency and sustainability. With eco-friendly features like the Inverter Direct Drive motor, which reduces energy consumption and noise levels, and the use of eco-friendly materials, the appliances are designed to minimize their environmental impact.

    At the same time, LG understands that appliances should perform exceptionally and complement modern homes’ aesthetics. With sleek, minimalist designs and premium finishes, the LG dryers and dishwashers add a touch of elegance to any kitchen or laundry room.

    The dryers and dishwashers are already available at authorized retailers and select LG brand stores across the country

    The dishwashers will retail between KES 134,000 and KES 200,000 while the dryers will retail at KES 138,000 to KES 190,000. Customers can visit LG.COM for more information on product availability, specifications, and pricing.

  • How technology is aiding some of Africa’s largest agricultural producers

    How technology is aiding some of Africa’s largest agricultural producers

    In the latest episode of Inside Africa, CNN International explores the future of agriculture and how agricultural technology – agritech – is supporting the industry.

     

    Wandile Sihlobo, Chief Economist at the Agricultural Business Chamber of South Africa establishes the importance of the agritech sector and the continent’s role in it, “We have the potential. Now we need to get to the stage where to say, ‘Let’s realise the potential.’ And I mean, if you think about it in a global space, there is generally an increasing interest in agricultural technology and also in the food sector at large, which means that capital could be available to unlock that potential.”

     

    With limited income and access to credit, machinery tends to be too expensive for small-scale farmers to buy. Folu Okunade is the co-founder and COO of Hello Tractor, a way for farmers in Kenya to rent existing equipment and use it more efficiently. He explains, “We have IOT [Internet of Things] enabled web and mobile platforms that connect farmers with mechanisation service providers or tractor owners. The tractor comes to them, does the work. They now don’t have to own a tractor outright because it doesn’t make sense for them to, if they just own a small piece of land, they’re never going to be able to pay back that tractor.”

     

    Farmer and tractor owner Nashon Ngetich speaks about why the service is useful for owners as well as renters, “I’m able to rent it out to my neighbouring farmers, move around with it around the country and I can make some small amount of money from it as well as pay for it, pay the operator. The opportunity with it is we can plan ourselves easily. When the season kicks in I can plan for it.”

     

    Looking to the future, Okunade hopes to expand beyond just tractors. He tells CNN, “Mechanisation is beyond just ploughing or land preparation, it goes to things like planting, or spreading fertiliser, or spraying, or planting, or harvesting. So, we really see this progression now that we have the customer, how do we move them to a highly engaged customer who’s doing three and more services with us per season.”

     

    Africa is the fastest growing continent and the UN estimates that the population of Sub-Saharan Africa will nearly double by 2050. Improving crop yields is key for feeding this future. Okunade says, “There’s a ton of potential. I don’t think anybody knows the ceiling when it comes to working with smallholder farmers and really solving this food security challenge. So, it’s the challenge that drives me, but it’s also knowing that there’s a huge potential out there.”

     

    Also in Kenya, Inside Africa sees how a mobile app for cow management is transforming milk production. Around 3.8 billion litres of milk are produced in Kenya every year, mostly by small farms. Peninah Wanja, Founder of DigiCow Africa describes where dairy farmers lose money, “One of the key challenges that faces the small holder dairy farmers is low milk production, where farmers get an average of 10 litres per cow per day. Against the potential of 30 litres per cow per day, the same cow. And this challenge is brought in by farmers not keeping records.”

     

    As well as keeping records on milk production, DigiCow can store information on vaccinations, deworming, and artificial insemination. The app sends automatic alerts when a cow is due treatment and can dispatch a vet as necessary. Dairy farmer Murimi Wamabi talks about how the app has helped, “My core business being breeding, they’ve really assisted me in breeding in the sense of keeping my records. And since I’m a busy guy, honestly, when you have somebody who can update, he tells you today, check on heat on this particular animal, this one is due on this date so you should dry it. So, all that information is actually at the tip of my finger.”

     

    DigiCow has already expanded to cover more than just cattle. Wanja says, “We started with a dairy farmer in mind. But out of demand from the farmers we have been able to expand to other value chains. And we are now working with sheep, goat, beef in crops, in potatoes, and also rice. In total, we are working with over 300,000 farmers.”

     

    In Côte d’Ivoire, drones are being used to aid agriculture and increase productivity. They allow farmers to remotely monitor crops and use sophisticated sensors to assess soil quality and detect crop disease. Co-founder of drone maker JooL International Joseph-Olivier Biley describes the company, “JooL was born out of a personal problem my family was having. We have this plantation three to four hours away and my father who is very busy didn’t have time to go there regularly. JooL was born to allow people like my father, agricultural investors, to be able to protect and grow their investments remotely while carrying out their day jobs.”

     

    Drone usage is increasing in Africa, particularly in the medical space, but many are imported from China for affordability and ease. Biley says JooL intends to keep making its own hardware locally, “We are only able to produce small quantities. We need to be able to find the means to expand our production line, by setting up a factory to be able to produce in larger quantities locally, to save costs, to create jobs and to be able to satisfy the whole continent.”

     

    Biley and his team have also set up an academy to train drone pilots. Lanciné Doumouya, Co-founder & VP at JooL Academy speaks about the project, “The academy allows us to train professionals in the agricultural field. To give them an added value in their field of agronomy, in their daily agronomic activity. And also people who have nothing to do with agriculture, who want to improve or learn the drone business and be able to create a source of income. So it’s really aimed at everybody.”

     

    Finally, the show visits Uganda where technology is aiding an urban development project.

     

    ‘Inside Africa’ airs on Sunday 30th July 2023 at 12:30 SAST on CNN International

     

  • The Hub Karen Marks Its 7th Anniversary with Exciting Weekend Offers and exciting birthday giveaways

    The Hub Karen Marks Its 7th Anniversary with Exciting Weekend Offers and exciting birthday giveaways

    • Shoppers are set to receive birthday gifts from leading stores and outlets within the mall including discounts of up to 50% discounts on shoes, gym membership and recreational activity.  
    • Since its grand opening in 2016, The Hub Karen has evolved into the go-to destination for shopping and entertainment for Nairobi residents. 

    The Hub Karen is gearing up to celebrate its 7th anniversary this weekend – 29-30 July 2023.

    Known as the ‘Jewel of Nairobi’, this premier shopping location is inviting families, friends, and shopping enthusiasts to explore an array of special birthday deals from its wide selection of shops, restaurants and experiences, promising a fun-filled weekend. The mall will be giving out birthday gifts throughout the weekend as it marks this milestone to appreciate its customers and reward them for their loyalty and patronage.

    Sameh Ibrahim, Chief Operating Officer of Real Estate at JCG, commented:

    “As we commemorate seven years of successful operations, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our loyal customers and partners who have been an integral part of The Hub Karen’s journey.

    “Their unwavering support has been instrumental in our growth and success. We invite them to take advantage of the unparalleled shopping experiences we have to offer this weekend, and we look forward to serving them for many more years to come.”

    Numerous global brands have prepared exclusive weekend offers, among them Adidas, which, opened its doors to shoppers last weekend and has trendy and fashion forward clothing and shoes available in its store.

    MAC, the makeup store, is infusing the weekend with a touch of glamour, offering a limited number of free makeup services to their customers each worth KES 6,000, Meanwhile, Town Team is enhancing the excitement with gift vouchers valued at KES 1,500 each for shoppers who visit the mall.

    Families looking for a weekend of outdoor fun and adventure can spend the day at Jump by Flying Fox ziplining over the lake, rappelling, wall climbing or enjoying the giant swings. Families can get up to 25% discount on 25 activities while patrons who buy 2 activities will get 15% off while 3 activities will attract a 20% discount on the ticket price.

    Brands like Heel-to-Toe, Smart Gym, Jump, Silken Human Hair, Premier by Dead Sea, and Michael’s Perfumes are also participating in the weekend offers, providing discounts of between 10% to 50% on various products and services.

    And if shoppers are feeling worn out from a shopping extravaganza, they can take a break at the restaurants and eateries within the mall or enjoy a complimentary cooking class at Alatasuesue, where they can learn how to prepare exotic meals such as Sushi and Nigerian food.

    On Sunday, shoppers who will also be treated to an exciting Family Sunday with live music playing, birthday gifts to be given away and cake cutting as the highlight of the day to celebrate with shoppers and tenants.

    With so much on offer, there is truly something for all the family this weekend at The Hub Karen.

    Beyond the enticing deals and offers, The Hub Karen’s anniversary celebration underscores its steadfast commitment to the local community.

    From the time of its inception, the mall has consistently engaged in empowering the neighbouring area, conducting book and shoe donation drives, supporting a local football team, contributing to conservation charities, and participating in tree-planting initiatives. This anniversary event serves as an opportunity to reassert that devotion.

    For more information about The Hub Karen’s 7th anniversary celebrations, follow @hubkaren on Instagram, @TheHubKaren on Facebook and @TheHubKaren on Twitter.

    The Hub Karen is Kenya’s premier family destination located in Nairobi offering a variety of international fashion and food outlets and brands. The mall is environmentally friendly with energy and resource saving initiatives that include solar power generation and a sewage water treatment plant and is the first-open air mall in the region integrating green energy.

  • Kenyan households spend more than 10 times monthly income on school supplies – WorldRemit study

    Kenyan households spend more than 10 times monthly income on school supplies – WorldRemit study

     

    • WorldRemit releases its third year of data, observing the rising costs of educational supplies across 20 countries globally
    • 40% of countries to pay more than their monthly income on school supplies this year
    • Study shows total cost per child in Kenya at Ksh68,701.0

    Today, WorldRemit, a digital remittances brand within Zepz, releases its third year of global data and findings, to understand how the cost of school supplies impact families around the world. As inflation persists and supply chain issues continue to arise across multiple sectors, it comes as no surprise that on average, countries observed can expect costs to rise.

    Findings for Kenya show the total cost per child is Ksh68,701. Given the average household size in Kenya of 3.23, the total cost per household is estimated at Ksh 221,904.23.This is higher than average incomes for most households in the country, with the survey showing the cost of education for most households is 1054.31% or approximately 10 times their average monthly household income.

    Across countries where people have higher monthly incomes, Canada, the UK and Australia saw nominal decreases in the percentage of income they can expect to allocate, while France and Spain saw notable increases. In France, families can expect to allocate 5% of their monthly budget this year, while in Spain, they can expect to allocate 7% more than last year on basic school supplies.

    In other parts of the world, cost changes were far more drastic, where yearly changes averaged an increase of 78%. 1 in 9 people1 worldwide rely on money sent from friends and relatives who have migrated abroad for work. For families whose incomes simply cannot accommodate the cost of these fundamental supplies, remittances make a world of difference in their ability to afford these supplies, as well as steep costs like tuition, transportation and childcare.

    2023 Cost of School Overview

     

      Country Cost Changes YoY % of Monthly Household Income Highest Item increase
    Industrialised Nations Canada -0.4% 9% Gym shoes
    United States +28% 9% Colouring pencils
    United Kingdom +2% 9% Pencils
    France +41% 19% Colouring pencils
    Spain +53% 20% Pencils
    Australia +19% 9% Pencils
    Americas Mexico +56% 84% Polo shirts
    Guatemala +75% 334% Polo shirts
    Colombia +81% 153% Notebooks
    Dominican Republic +56% 72% Polo shirts
    EMEA Cameroon +97% 789% Ruler
    Morocco +118% 262% Polo shirts
    Nigeria +162% 632% Sharpener
    Tanzania +62% 861% Socks
    Zimbabwe +6% 427% Pencil case
    APAC Philippines +16% 51% Pencils
    India +129% 197% Notebooks

    While practically every country in the study had increased costs, certain items have drastically increased. For example, in Australia a case of 12 pencils has increased more than 4x the cost of the previous year and the cost of notebooks in India is almost 6x as expensive as in 2022.

    3.6% or 281 million2 of the global population identify as migrants, a number that has steadily increased over the last 30 years. Similarly, remittances have increased from US $126B in 2000 to more than $700B in 2020, with the US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland and Germany operating as the top 5 sending countries as of 2020.

    While rising costs of living have forced migrants to be more conscious about how they allocate funds for remittances, as of July 2022, WorldRemit data indicates education is one of the top 3 reasons people send money.

    To learn more about the study and see full results, visit https://www.worldremit.com/en/back-to-school

    ENDS

    Notes to Editors:

    If you are to use this data in an article, would you please credit the research via this link: https://www.worldremit.com/en/back-to-school

     

    References

    12019: UnitedNations.org, Remittances matter: 8 facts you don’t know about the money migrants send back home

    2 2022: IOM UN Migration, World Migration Report 2022

     

    Methodology

    In the study, WorldRemit looked at the following countries and researched basic school supplies:

    • United States of America
    • United Kingdom
    • Canada
    • Australia
    • Philippines
    • Mexico
    • Uganda
    • Tanzania
    • India
    • Nigeria
    • Guatemala
    • Colombia
    • Dominican Republic
    • Morocco
    • Zimbabwe
    • Lebanon
    • Cameroon
    • Ghana
    • Kenya
    • France
    • Spain

    For 2023:

    Using the 2022 items list dataset provided, we identified the 2023 prices for 21 counties for the back to school items. Using the data provided from last year we searched for more up to date and cheaper options if available. Using the quantity of items needed shown in column B, we multiplied the cost of the items (when required) to match the quantity e.g. 6 polo shirts, the price identified for one shirt was multiplied by six.The data was gathered between the 21st and 27th of June 2023. All prices were converted into GBP and US dollars using Google on 29th June 2023.

    Once all item prices had been gathered, using the CIA world factbook we updated the fertility rate for 2023 estimates and multiplied the cost of the total school items by fertility rate to showcase an overall cost of going back to school for a family.

    We also used the World Bank data (as used in the 2022 dataset) to pull the average Net National Income per capita in US dollars and divided this by 12 to showcase a potential monthly salary. The UK had 2018 data from the World Bank, so instead we used OECD data to get the Net National Income for the UK.

    For 2022:

    The primary school items were selected based on the most common back to school items. The price of each item was searched for online and the lowest price item was selected from one of the most popular online retailers in that country. The prices were researched in July 2022. The exchange rate from the local currency was calculated on 06/08/2022 at 9:00 BST. The fertility rate and income was gathered from the CIA world factbook.

  • 205 students empowered to join tertiary education institutions through Prudential’s donation to Kenya Education Fund.

    205 students empowered to join tertiary education institutions through Prudential’s donation to Kenya Education Fund.

    • Prudential has donated Kshs. 12 million to Kenya Education Fund. 
    • The donation will be used to support 205 learners enrolling in their first year of education in higher learning institutions for the next 3 years.
    • The contribution is among Prudential’s efforts in supporting the education of students from disadvantaged families in Kenya, and those whose guardians lost income sources following the Covid pandemic.

    Two hundred and five students are assured of reporting to their first year of tertiary education supported by a Kshs. 12million donation from Prudential through its community investment arm, Prudence Foundation.

    The donation, which was presented to the Kenya Education Fund today at the Oloolaiser National School, in Ngong, Kajiado County, was drawn from Prudential’s Covid Recovery Fund. It will finance the first year of tertiary learning every year, starting this year, for the next three years, with beneficiaries drawn from all around the country. The beneficiaries will include students from financially disadvantaged households and those whose parents and guardians suffered a loss of income due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

    The Covid-19 Recovery Fund was initiated by Prudential in 2020 to support approved charitable and community projects that address the immediate social and economic impacts of the pandemic. Education was among the worst affected sectors in Kenya, as students stayed out of school for nearly seven months, and upon reopening had to contend with adjusted calendars. Meanwhile, many families struggled to keep their children in school following layoffs, furloughs, and company closures. The situation is further worsened by the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and the impact of climate change. Already, over 2 million students aged 4 – 17 have been out of school since 2021, with the number projected to increase in coming days.

    It is against this background that Prudential sought to alleviate the pain for students joining tertiary institutions, whose admission is relatively costlier when compared to the formative levels of school.

    “Every year, over 200,000 students qualify for placement in universities and other tertiary education institutions, but thousands of these brilliant students miss out on the opportunity due to poverty. It really is unfortunate for students to struggle through primary and secondary school education, and just when they are about to join college – where many lives are transformed – they meet financial roadblocks that prevent them from proceeding. The situation worsened after the Covid pandemic with many breadwinners losing their livelihoods. At Prudential, we found this to be a disheartening situation and that is why we have been teaming up with Kenya Education Fund to support some of these needy cases,” said Prudential Kenya CEO, Gwen Kinisu.

    Prudential has an ongoing partnership with the KEF that started back in 2014. This partnership has seen over 180 students receive full scholarships for their secondary school and university education, supported by previous donation from the Covid Recovery Fund.  In 2021, the partnership printed and distributed over 16,000 revision books to learners countrywide which are still being used by students to date.

    Francis Ng’ang’a, the KEF’s Country Director said his organization receives an overwhelming number of applications for financial support every year, and lauded Prudential for its continued support.

    “We receive thousands of applications from across the country and were it not for the support of well-meaning institutions like Prudential, we may not have the capacity to honor many of them,” he said.

  • KENVEST HOSPITALITY GROUP LAUNCHES TWO NEW AFRICAN-CENTRIC HOTEL BRANDS ALONG THE KENYAN COAST

    KENVEST HOSPITALITY GROUP LAUNCHES TWO NEW AFRICAN-CENTRIC HOTEL BRANDS ALONG THE KENYAN COAST

    Kenvest Hospitality Group has launched two groundbreaking hotel brands, BOXO and LALA, in the vibrant coastal town of Diani Beach, Kenya. These new brands mark Kenvest Hospitality Group’s first foray into the Kenyan hospitality sector, bringing innovative and African-centric concepts to cater to the discerning needs of today’s travellers.

    LALA, the first brand, presents a unique hotel experience designed for the modern professional seeking a harmonious work-life balance. Located on a picturesque beachfront property in Diani, LALAGALU offers 14 consciously designed ‘pods’ that provide an intimate connection with nature. Each pod has been meticulously curated to foster relaxation, mindfulness, and productivity. Guests can enjoy dedicated wellness areas, serene gardens, comfortable workstations, and a range of rejuvenating amenities, including an in-house fitness studio, yoga by the sea, bike riding, and a tranquil spa.

    LALAGALU also embraces the farm-to-table concept, offering delectable meals crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients that cater to diverse dietary preferences. The design of LALAGALU harmoniously blends authentic craftsmanship, technology, art, and culture, creating a serene atmosphere with natural materials such as reclaimed wood, stone, and earthy textures. The property showcases a curated collection of art, including miniature sculptures by Kenyan artist 3D MOGUL addressing the issue of non-biodegradable ocean waste, as well as augmented reality yoga poses by Pakistani visual artist ABDUL REHMAN.

    BOXO, the second brand, is committed to providing accessible and affordable accommodation for today’s cost-conscious travelers. BOXO DIANI features 25 cozy rooms made from repurposed shipping containers, reducing waste and promoting sustainability. Thoughtfully designed interiors maximize space utilization, offering comfortable furniture, clever storage solutions, dedicated workstations, and modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and functional living space for guests.

    BOXO DIANI goes beyond its accommodations by providing a central pool, themed activities, and the all-day dining restaurant FATFATS with its innovative ‘build-your-own’ menu concept; creating a fun-filled and memorable experience for guests. The design style of BOXO DIANI exudes modern, bold styling with vibrant focal points, promoting joy and social connection. Strategically located on Galu Beach, the hotel offers convenience and accessibility, with the beach just a short 5-minute walk away.

    “We are thrilled to introduce our two new African-centric hotel brands, LALA and BOXO, to the Kenyan market, offering transformative guest experiences,” said MIKE VARNEY, CEO of Kenvest Hospitality Group. “Our concepts have been carefully developed to meet the expectations of the modern African traveller. Through our commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability, and community engagement, we aim to usher in a new era of local hospitality and foster a meaningful connection between guests and their surroundings.”

    Kenvest Hospitality Group’s entry into the Kenyan hospitality sector represents a significant milestone in providing innovative and purposeful accommodations that cater to the diverse needs of travellers. BOXO and LALA are poised to redefine the hotel experience in Diani Beach, offering unique and memorable stays that combine comfort, sustainability, and a genuine connection with the local culture and environment. Scheduled growth plans for BOXO will focus on expansion across strategic African cities. Guests will be able to experience the LALA brand in the Maasai Mara and Champagne Ridge, Kenya.

    LALAGALU invites travellers to immerse themselves in a world of wellness, now open and accepting bookings through https://staylala.com/

    BOXO DIANI is also now open and accepting bookings through https://boxohotels.com/

  • Trust is crucial in bringing effective healthcare to all Kenyans

    Trust is crucial in bringing effective healthcare to all Kenyans

    By Peter Gikera Gicharu, Co-founder & CTO, Tibu Health

     

    Trust. It’s the vital ingredient in almost every successful relationship. Romantic partnerships, friendships, and even business relationships all hinge on trust. The same is true on a much bigger societal level. Take healthcare, for example. An effective healthcare system is one where people trust that their doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and administrators will meet their medicinal needs. Critically, it’s also one where they know that they’ll be treated with dignity and empathy.

     

    Unfortunately, that trust hasn’t always been evident in Kenyan healthcare. While the country’s healthcare system performs better on trust than other big regional players on the continent (according to Statista), it’s some way below global leaders like China and the UAE. That shouldn’t be all that surprising. Many Kenyans travel long distances and wait in long queues to access healthcare. Sometimes they might not even receive consultation and have to return the next day.

     

    Of course, technology can and will play a significant role in addressing that trust deficit. Whether it’s finding new ways to make the overall healthcare system more efficient or allowing for a more personalised patient experience, it’s already making an impact and will only grow in importance. But for tech to reach its full healthcare potential, it will have to overcome its trust barriers.

     

    A stretched system

     

    Before looking at how technology can build up that trust, it’s worth providing a broader overview of the Kenyan healthcare system.

     

    As is the case in many countries, healthcare in Kenya is divided into public and private sectors. Public healthcare is funded through a combination of government budget allocations and the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF), which provides health insurance coverage to Kenyan citizens. Private healthcare, meanwhile, is funded by patient health insurance and out-of-pocket payments.

     

    The split is far from even though. A report released in 2021 revealed that just 20% of Kenyans have any form of health insurance. That means that the public system has to cater to the vast majority of the population. But healthcare worker resources aren’t split evenly between the two sectors. According to government research released in 2022, 66% of Kenyan healthcare workers serve the public sector. That leaves 34% serving that 20% or so who can afford private healthcare.

     

    Irrespective of which sector, there’s also a clear shortage of healthcare professionals in the country. There are approximately 30.14 doctors, nurses, and clinical officers per 10 000 people. That represents about 68% of the United Nations’ SDG index threshold of 44.5 doctors, nurses and midwives per 10 000 people. Small wonder then that, with such a stretched system, so many Kenyans face long queues and wait times that erode trust.

     

    Learning to trust tech

     

    That’s where technology has an important role to play. It can help more people access healthcare more efficiently and in ways that offer significantly better experiences than what has historically been available. But in order for it to play that role, trust is critical.

     

    We’ve seen this first-hand as we’ve built and grown TIBU Health. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we focused on doing at-home tests, reducing the need for people to expose themselves to potentially risky clinic settings. Later, we did the same thing with vaccines. That then expanded to sample collections for laboratory tests. Incrementally doing one thing effectively at a time built up trust and meant that we were able to offer a growing array of services.

     

    But as we further expand our offerings into home clinician visits and video and voice-based telehealth services, we know that this form of trust-building might not be enough for some people. That’s part of the reason why we built a physical clinic that people can visit. The more comfortable patients get with our healthcare professionals in person, the more comfortable they’ll be dealing with them virtually.

     

    Similar efforts will be needed to get Kenyans to embrace digital healthcare across the board. While there was an uptick in the use of digital health services during the pandemic, it still lags some way behind other digital services such as mobile money.

     

    There are any number of reasons for that slower shift, including the fact that healthcare is a deeply personal, and occasionally, sensitive thing for all of us. Factor in how entrenched the habits of physically going to a doctor, pharmacy, or clinic are and it’s easy to see why digital healthcare might lag behind.

     

    Driving change

     

    Ultimately, those are issues that will have to be addressed. And the sooner they are, the better. Technology will prove crucial in making Kenyan healthcare more efficient and capable of meeting the needs of more people. That, in turn, helps build up trust and investment. But technology can only play that role if people trust it first.