Kenyaleo.co.ke

Author: David Bogonko Nyokang’i

  • Xiaomi Redmi A2+ Device; Incredible Affordability with Outstanding Performance

    Xiaomi Redmi A2+ Device; Incredible Affordability with Outstanding Performance

    Xiaomi today announced the official launch of Redmi A2+, a great entry level device with a powerful MediaTek Helio G36 processor, 8MP AI dual camera system and a long-lasting 5000mAh battery.

    With the launch of Redmi A2+, Xiaomi raises the bar for the segment by making exceptional performance available at a highly affordable price, making it a top-of-the-line contender in its bracket. The device will come in a 2GB + 32GB variant at the affordable cost of Ksh. 10,499/-

    Large 5,000mAh battery and MediaTek Helio G36 

    Powering up Redmi A2+ is a MediaTek Helio G36 processor, with an octa-core CPU up to 2.2GHz. The device is equipped with a long-lasting 5,000mAh battery and 10W fast charging, that provides enough power to last you a full day.

    Large 6.52″ HD+ Dot Drop display packed into a trendy design 

    You can bring your favorite movies to life on the large 6.52″ HD+ display in a stylish flat frame design with a unibody curved back which produces a natural feel to Redmi 2A+ that other entry level smartphones can’t match. The device features a responsive rear fingerprint sensor and comes in three colours Black, Light Green and Light Blue.

    Photography with 8MP AI dual camera and 5MP selfie camera 

    Redmi 2A+ comes with an 8MP main camera for capturing and sharing your life moments and a 5MP front camera for clear selfies and a series of gallery features for a fun experience.

    The storage can be expanded to up to 1TB meaning it’s capable of storing a personal library of thousands of videos, songs and photos. Redmi A2+ comes with Android 13 (Go Edition) for a stable and engaging user experience. The devices will be available in Kenya from today.

  • Evelyn Cheluget today officially took over as the new Director General, Immigration Services

    Evelyn Cheluget today officially took over as the new Director General, Immigration Services

    Evelyn Cheluget today officially took over as the new Director General, Immigration Services. She holds a Master of Arts Degree in Diplomacy and International Studies and a Master of Business Administration (Strategic Management), both from the University of Nairobi and a Bachelor of Arts from Egerton University. Prior to her appointment, she has been working at the Immigration Department and has risen through ranks.

    At the Immigration and Citizen Services Department, she will be serving together with Christopher Kinyua Wanjau head National Registration Bureau, Paul Mwangemi head Civil Registration service, John Burugu head Department of Refugees Services and Isaac Ochieng head Digitisation Services.

  • Makini Schools Introduces Free Aftercare and Holiday Programme for Preschoolers

    Makini Schools, has today announced a free aftercare and holiday programme for preschoolers in their schools in Nairobi and in Kisumu. The programme is designed to support families with busy schedules while ensuring that learners stay engaged and inspired during school breaks with a primary focus on providing a safe and structured environment for children to learn and explore.

    The aftercare and holiday programme will offer a wide range of activities, including arts and crafts, music, drama, sports, and technology (coding), to keep learners creatively engaged.

    Speaking on the initiative, Makini Schools’ Regional Managing Director, Mr. Horace Mpanza highlighted that the programme was specifically created to address the requirements of working parents who often find it challenging to balance their work responsibilities with their child’s school schedule.

    “We recognize the challenges faced by working parents in securing suitable childcare arrangements after school hours and during school holidays. We have listened to our parents’ concerns and in response, we believe that the aftercare and holiday programme will provide flexible scheduling options, enabling parents to fulfill their work obligations while ensuring that their children receive excellent care and gain valuable skills. This win-win situation benefits both parents and children,” said Mr. Mpanza.

    He added that the programme will be complemented by the top-of-the-line facilities and a team of well-trained and experienced teachers, at the institution. “Our schools have the necessary facilities to enable learners to access a rich and stimulating learning environment even during school breaks,” he said.

    The holiday programme will be offered in 4-6 week long sessions, with classes running for 2 hours on weekdays from 3:15 pm – 5:15 pm. Additional classes for upper grades are expected to be added throughout the year, offering a comprehensive range of opportunities for learners to learn and grow.

    Makini Schools is committed to providing quality education, support and value to its learners and families, and the aftercare and holiday programme is yet another example of this commitment.

    With its comprehensive range of activities, flexible scheduling, and cost-effective approach, the programme is sure to be a valuable resource for learners and families alike.

    Additionally, parents and guardians can rest assured that their children will be safe and supervised, as the programme is designed to provide a structured and secure environment for children.

    The programme is free of cost and open to all pre-school learners.

    Makini Pre-School learners playing with beam balances at Ngong Campus during the launch of the Aftercare and Holiday Program. The free program is meant to cater for parents with busy schedules while ensuring that learners stay engaged and inspired after school and during holidays.

    Makini School learners engage in performing arts during the launch of the Aftercare and Holiday programme at Makini Preschool campus, Ngong Road. The program’s primary focus is to provide a safe and structured environment for children to learn and explore after school.

    Makini Preschool learners taking part in exploration and adventure activity jumping on a trampoline during the showcasing of the activities at the launch of the Aftercare and Holiday program at Makini Preschool campus, Ngong Road.

    About Makini Schools

    Makini Schools was founded in February 1978 by the late Dr. Pius Okelo and Dr. Mary Okelo. Currently, the school has five r campuses: The Ngong Road (mother) campus and the Makini Junior Academy on State House Avenue in Nairobi; Makini Junior School Migosi, Makini boarding School Kibos and Makini school Kisumu.

    On its 40th anniversary in 2018, the school changed ownership from the Okelo’s and is now under the ADvTECH Group. Makini Schools aim is to become a world class Kenyan curriculum and International curriculum school in the region.

  • Worrying Trend as Donkey Numbers Plummet to alarming levels

    Worrying Trend as Donkey Numbers Plummet to alarming levels

    Concerns have been raised following the plummeting of donkey numbers countrywide.

    Brooke East Africa through the Regional Director Raphael Kinoti noted that going by the Government’s statistics, there were 1.8M donkeys as of 2009 but currently we just have 1.2M donkeys left, meaning a whooping 600,000 have been eliminated.

    “We blame all this on the Department of Veterinary Services that okeyed the trade in donkey hide thereby giving unscrupulous people a chance to burn the midnight oil eliminating the animals. The trade should be banned totally in order to give these handy animals a chance to survive,” Dr Kinoti noted.

    Dr Kinoti also highlighted the importance of community participation in weeding out the theft of donkeys.

    “The society has a critical role to play in informing the authorities any person found driving donkeys in a suspicious manner. Such a person should be reported to the authorities because he poses a great risk to the entire country.

    During a field visit to Ndeiya, Brooke East Africa assessed the magnitude of illegal donkey slaughter whereby hundreds of carcasses were evident that the cartels are posing a real threat to donkeys.

    “We have seen here today that this illegal slaughter takes place in the cover of darkness and is conducted in the bushes. The hides are quickly removed and the carcass deboned leaving just the skeleton. It’s believed that the meat is then traded in the black Market thereby posing another great health risk to members of the public. This is because donkeys are a carrier to several deadly diseases such as the Equine flu, rabies anthrax and the like,”

    Dr Kinoti noted that Brooke East Africa will continue to work with like minded institutions and the authorities in creating awareness, advocacy and enforcement in a bid to safeguard the equines.

  • Former Powerful PS and Farmers Party Leader Irungu Nyakera appointed KEMSA board chair

    Former Powerful PS and Farmers Party Leader Irungu Nyakera appointed KEMSA board chair

    Congratulations to Honorable Irungu Nyakera on his appointment as the Chairperson of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA). Hon Nyakera is the current party leader of the Farmer’s Party many say that it’s a testament to his abilities and leadership qualities.

    President Dr. William Ruto’s confidence in Honorable Irungu Nyakera is evident, as he describes him as a down-to-earth, approachable, thoughtful, charismatic, and visionary leader who is results-oriented. Honorable Nyakera has previously held esteemed positions as a Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Devolution and later in the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, where he has demonstrated his capabilities.

    “In exercise of the powers conferred by section 5 (1) (a) of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority Act, as read together with section 51 (1) of the Interpretation and General Provisions Act, I, William Samoei Ruto, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces of the Republic of Kenya, appoints— Irungu Nyakera as the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority, for a period of three (3) years.”

    He is determined to clean up the mess and deliver KEMSA from its troubled state.

    Undoubtedly, the role of leading KEMSA will not be easy, but Honorable Nyakera’s commitment and reliance on divine guidance are evident in his statement. With his leadership and the support of the team, it is hopeful that positive changes and improvements will be made within KEMSA, benefiting the healthcare system and the people of Kenya.

    In a statement on Tuesday, Nyakera said the task ahead will not be easy for him and the new team. He, however, assured Kenyans that they were up to the task, particularly in relation to corruption, and expresses gratitude to President Ruto for entrusting him with the task of leading the organization out of this predicament.

    “Today I wake up to a new role as the Chairperson of Kenya Medical Supplies Authority. The agency has been riddled with graft for the last few years and I thank His Excellency President William Ruto for believing in me to deliver KEMSA from the mess. We will clean the mess, I can assure Kenyans. It certainly won’t be easy, so help me God,” he said.

    Close relatives have wished Honorable Irungu Nyakera’s tenure as Chairperson of KEMSA to be marked by integrity, transparency, and effective management, leading to a more efficient and accountable medical supplies authority in Kenya.

  • Building MSES networks and benchmarking delegation commensed

    Building MSES networks and benchmarking delegation commensed

    The recent visit of the Elimika self-help group from Tana River County to the Micro Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) in Embu/Tharaka Nithi region. The purpose of the visit was to benchmark and network with established actors in the mango value chain in Embu County.

    The delegation, led by Mr. Zachary Kibara ADED of Tana River/Lamu region and Mr. Richard Mutua of CISP-rebuild project officer, had the opportunity to visit Karurumo Horticulture in the Karurumo area of Runyenjes constituency. Karurumo Horticulture serves as a hub for horticulture and produces aggregation and value addition, focusing on mangoes, bananas, and other crops. It is owned and managed by the Karurumo Aggregators and Processors Association, which has been successful in adding value to mangoes through the development of various products.

    During the visit, the two groups, representing Elimika and Karurumo Aggregators and Processors Association, had the chance to interact, exchange ideas, and share success stories and challenges related to product development, marketing, and group dynamics/management. This exchange of knowledge and experiences is valuable for both parties as it promotes learning and fosters collaboration.

    Additionally, the Elimika group had the opportunity to learn about banana value addition from both the Karurumo association and Faith Mbogo of Kikai Foods Group, located in Kirigi Manyatta constituency. This further enriched their understanding of value addition in the agricultural sector.

    Mr. Munoru Edward, the representative from MSEA Embu, emphasized the importance of embracing intercounty entrepreneurial networks and benchmarking for the sustainable growth and development of Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs). By fostering these connections and promoting market linkages, MSEs can thrive and contribute to the economic development of the region.

    Overall, the visit and exchange of ideas between the Elimika self-help group and the mango value chain actors in Embu County are positive steps toward strengthening the agricultural sector and promoting entrepreneurship. The sharing of experiences and knowledge will contribute to the growth and success of MSEs in both the Tana River and Embu/Tharaka Nithi regions.

  • Kiambu MP addresses mental Health wellness to combat stigma

    Kiambu MP addresses mental Health wellness to combat stigma

    Kiambu Woman Representative is actively working to address mental health wellness and combat the stigma surrounding mental health issues in Kiambu County. Mental Health Awareness Month provides a valuable opportunity to raise awareness and promote understanding of mental health.

    May is Mental Health Awareness Month, which has been observed since 1949. This annual event serves as a platform to raise awareness about mental health and to combat the stigma surrounding Mental Health Issues.

    The stigma surrounding mental health has often prevented individuals from seeking help and discussing their psychological issues openly. As a result, many cases of family breakups, suicides, homicides, and substance abuse have occurred unnecessarily. By addressing these issues early and professionally, such tragedies can be prevented.

    Honorable Ann Muratha recognizes the importance of education, advocacy, and support in creating a more understanding and compassionate society for those facing mental health challenges. It’s worth noting that a significant portion of diseases, about 85%, have psychosomatic origins, highlighting the crucial connection between mental and physical health.

    As the Mama County of Kiambu, Honorable Ann Muratha is committed to promoting mental health and wellness across the 60 wards in the county. Her vision includes establishing counseling and wellness units in each ward to provide psychological services and support to the public. By bringing these services closer to the community, individuals in need will have easier access to the help they require.

    Honorable Ann Muratha emphasizes the importance of seeking help when needed and encourages individuals to embrace the natural cycle of life, which includes experiencing both ups and downs. By taking care of ourselves and supporting one another, we can work together to build a healthier and happier society for all. Sharing problems and seeking support is an effective way to address mental health challenges, as it helps in finding solutions and alleviating burdens.

    Honorable Ann Muratha’s efforts to prioritize mental health and wellness are commendable. By promoting awareness, advocating for support, and establishing accessible counseling and wellness units, she is contributing to a society that prioritizes mental well-being. This dedication will undoubtedly make a positive impact on the lives of individuals in Kiambu County.

  • Reprieve For Women in Risa, Kajiado South

    Reprieve For Women in Risa, Kajiado South

    The inauguration of the health facility in Kajiado South by Dandelion Africa is a significant development for women of childbearing age in Risa and the surrounding areas. It’s heartening to see an NGO taking proactive steps to address the challenges faced by these women, particularly the issue of distance in accessing healthcare.

    By establishing the Health Facility, Dandelion Africa has provided a much-needed resource for the community. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including hot showers, the facility will be able to offer comprehensive maternal and child health services, as well as sexual and reproductive health services. This will undoubtedly improve the overall well-being of women in the region.

    Wendo Aszed, the founder and Executive Director of Dandelion Africa, has been working in Kajiado County, specifically Loitoktok, for over four years. Through their outreach services, they have been focusing on maternal and child health, as well as sexual and reproductive health services. The efforts have already shown promising results, with a 20 percent increase in skilled deliveries. However, the persistent challenge of distance remained.

    To overcome this challenge, Dandelion Africa, with the support of their partners, has taken a remarkable step forward. The inauguration of the Hospi-Container Medical Facility marks a significant milestone in providing outpatient and 24-hour maternity services. This means that women will have access to essential healthcare services closer to their homes, reducing the risks associated with long-distance travel.

    Additionally, Dandelion Africa has also established five manyatta Backpack sites in the vicinity of the medical center. These sites are likely aimed at extending their outreach services and ensuring that even more communities can benefit from their healthcare initiatives.

    Finally, Dandelion Africa’s dedication to improving healthcare access for women in Kajiado South is commendable. By establishing the health facility and expanding their outreach efforts, they are positively impacting the lives of women and their families, and contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

  • Governors of Central Banks Meet for Harmonization of Remittance Policies

    Governors of Central Banks Meet for Harmonization of Remittance Policies

    By Steve El Sabai

    May 15, 20The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) in partnership with the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) is hosting a meeting for Governors of Central Banks from IGAD Member States.

    The objective of this two-day meeting is to review, discuss and endorse an action plan for the implementation of the regional roadmap for the harmonisation of remittance policies across IGAD member countries.

    In that endeavour, the meeting will receive an update on the progress made in the implementation of the Regional Harmonization of Remittance Policies Project since its inception in  2021.

    The initiative aims in unlocking the huge potential of migrant’s remittances for sustainable development.

    The meeting will receive a debrief on the meeting that endorsed the regional roadmap for the implementation of the harmonization of remittance policies, its implementation approach, timelines, and performance indicators.

    The bottlenecks to the smooth inflows of remittances within and to the region will also be deliberated on by the governors.

    Remedial actions to reduce the impacts of those challenges will be proposed for future consideration.

    The Governors of Central Banks discussed and agreed to appoint a Single Point of Contact (SPOC) from each of the Member States for the day-to-day implementation of the action plan and a Regional Steering Committee constituted by one member from each of the Member States.

    Harmonisation for this project entails all the processes by which policies, regulatory frameworks and standards concerning approved remittances/ payment infrastructures establish similarity of processes and services or a mutual understanding of the information provided according to these policies, regulations, standards, and payment interoperability infrastructures.

    The processes may include aligning similar laws, regulations and standards and/or determining equivalence focusing on core issues in the areas of licensing and authorization regimes; electronic money (especially mobile money); payout networks on agencies; customer on boarding on risk-based know-your-customer (KYC); consumer protection; foreign exchange regulations and interoperability of payment infrastructure.

    Regional harmonisation of remittance policy and regulatory frameworks provides opportunities to deepen financial markets, make monetary policy more successful, reduce supervision and implementation costs, and open remittance service access to a broader population, thereby fostering economic growth.

    Moreover, it provides for more streamlined supervision, better interconnected financial services, and the proliferation of new technology as cross-border remittance service providers (RSPs) transfer know-how to other Member States.

  • A Kind Teacher and a mother awarded with a unique recognition

    A Kind Teacher and a mother awarded with a unique recognition

    When teacher Joyce Sempela Malit did an act of humility and kindness to the pupil whose uniform was torn, she didn’t expect that a simple act of kindness would go a long way in propelling her in the World Map.

    Teacher Joyce has been recognised as a role model who led by example.

    Expeditions Maasai Safaris, the leading tour company in Kenya was not left behind in recognising that simple act which speaks volumes.

    Pancras Karema is the Founder and Managing Director of Expeditions Maasai Safaris and he says:

    “It’s a 3-Day all-expenses-paid holiday for Mwalimu Joyce and the 8-year old pupil for her compassion.

    Pure Joy as we presented our token of appreciation to this wonderful woman, Teacher Joyce Sempela Malit. Together with her 8-year old pupil who could not make it for the presentation, they will fly to Pride Inn Flamingo and enjoy a 3-day all-expenses-paid holiday.”