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Category: LOCAL

  • Eastern Talanta Awards goes international as it eyes global

    A local Eastern region awards dubbed Eastern Talanta Awards is rebranding to accommodate and appreciate talents all over the country under the new title East Africa Talent Awards.

    Speaking at the official launch at Oyster Bay, Kilimani on Friday evening Edward Ndari CEO ETA, mentioned that the awards will be supporting artists from all corners of the nation and not only from the Eastern region where it originally started.

    “ETA awards started in Machakos county. Then it accommodated four counties, Machakos, Makueni, Kitui and Kajiado. The second edition had twelve counties.”

    “ We are here to launch the idea ya ETA which is rebranding from Eastern Talanta Awards to East Africa Talent Awards, we are doing it nationally hoping we will be able to achieve what we’re looking towards. Our focus is to partner and award the best creatives in the industry.” Edward Ndari said.

    Background on the Awards

    ETA AWARDS KE formerly referred to as Eastern Talanta Awards is a local entertainment awards ceremony that aims to produce a glamorous and dazzling awards event and that portrays the endowment of arts industry in Kenya and East Africa.

    It also aims to promote Kenyan artists and their works locally, regionally, and internationally by networking with other world class music awards.

    ETA Awards Ke believes that there are so many untapped talents at the county level that explains the beauty and diversity in art as far as Kenya is concerned.

    Among ETA’s key goals in the entertainment industry is giving a chance to mashinani creatives by bringing them to the limelight.

    ETA Awards Ke is a people’s choice award and therefore both submission of nominees and voting is done by the people and the circle around the creatives.

  • Meet Eng. Silas, a man on a mission to transform the Urban road sectors

    Meet Eng. Silas, a man on a mission to transform the Urban road sectors

    KURA Director General Eng. Silas Kinoti during Bomet and Nandi counties leaders in a consultative meeting on development of road projects. CS-Roads & Transport Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen attended
    KURA Director General Eng. Silas Kinoti during Bomet and Nandi counties leaders in a consultative meeting on development of road projects. CS-Roads & Transport Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen attended

    Kenya Urban Roads Authority Director General Engineer Silas Kinoti continues to make positive impacts in road sector and towns across Kenya.

    Kinoti has a wealth experience in road construction as well as management holds a Master in Business Administration (Corporate Management) and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and his name is synonymous with construction of roads in major towns.

    He has achieved more than 90 percent of the authority’s objectives and was the first to partner with county government this year to improve roads in town hence improving mobility.

    Players in road sector acknowledges Kinoti as a Guru in road construction who has changed narrative in engineering. He has been a distinguished member of Institution of Engineers (IEK) for the last 20 years.

    Director Kinoti has made sure that the era of potholes is a thing of the past in urban area and depression of buying suspensions by motorists all the time has reduced significantly.

    Engineer Kinoti has been re-carpeting roads that were in a dilapidated condition neglected before.

    In Mukuru slums, Githurai, Kangemi, Mwiki, Dandora Utawala, Mihang’o including Kibra and Mathare road construction has been hailed by residents. He has however vowed to bring more change to create a good city for the nation.

    “I will make sure we change the conditions of our city states so that we can achieve an international feel and touch whenever kenya is mentioned” Eng.Silas Kinoti, Director General Kenya Urban Roads Authority stated.

    Ngong Road Lang’ata link Road construction is complete and has ease traffic jam in Karen ,Ngong, Kibra and City Centre in General. currently marking and roads signs are on -going. City motorists lauded the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) for the construction of the road.

    It now takes less than five minutes for one to drive from lang’ata Road to Ngong road at prestige plaza. KURA under Kinoti’s leadership has intensified infrastructural development in major towns in a bid to deconjest urban areas to improve social economic activities such as industrial services. Kinoti can walk head tall as he ha achieved construction of 172km of New roads, rehabilitation of 167.7km provision of 36 bridges and interchanges constructed, 288km of pedestrian walkways constructed, 431.9 km put under periodic maintenance including 9.797km of roads under routine maintenance.

    Several activists have now fully pledged to champion  for this Guru indeed who needs recognition not only locally but even in the internationally including Nobel prize award.

  • COCA-COLA Rewards12TH Winner With A Year’s Worth Of Food Shopping

    COCA-COLA Rewards12TH Winner With A Year’s Worth Of Food Shopping

    The Coca-Cola system in Kenya awarded the twelfth winner with a year’s worth of food shopping in Kilifi.

    Faith Ngache, a Mtwapa resident in Kilifi County was announced as the winner in the just concluded promotion.

    Speaking at the award ceremony, Faith Ngache said, “This is important to me, together with my family and those that I serve. I am a wife and a mother, and this will be really of benefiting to my family in the next couple of months. I would like to thank Coca-Cola for supporting Kenyans all round even as this campaign concludes.”

    The campaign, which ran for 12 weeks, offered consumers a chance to win over 50 million Kenya Shillings worth of prizes, including cash (mobile money), airtime, and shopping vouchers.

    To participate, consumers bought a 1L, 1.25L or 2L bottle of Coca-Cola, Fanta, or Sprite and checked under the green cap for a code. The consumers would thereafter send an SMS with the unique code found under the green cap to 40111 for a chance to win instant prizes and be entered into a draw for more prizes.

    In addition to the grand prize of a year’s worth of food shopping other prizes included instant cash, airtime and shopping vouchers, enabling consumers to share meal moments with their loved ones. The promotion seeks to inspire Kenyans to continue enjoying meal moments together with a Coca-Cola.

    All grand prize winners were contacted through a dedicated customer care number and advised on their winnings. All  consumers taking part in the challenge were eighteen years and above and registered users of Safaricom, Airtel & Telkom.

  • KURA Eyes 7 High-Tech Features for Nairobi Roads After Securing Ksh 8B Loan, Eng. Kinoti confirms

    The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) on Tuesday, May 30, announced that the government had received a Ksh8 billion loan for the Intelligent Transport System (ITS) targeting key roads in Nairobi City.

    In a tender notice, KURA indicated that the project would mostly entail the installation of key technology including traffic signals and intersection surveillance cameras to manage traffic at various junctions.

    Through the KURA Director General, Eng. Silas Kinoti indicated that they’ve set Other technologies to be installed in the capital including; a signal controller, Vehicle Enforcement System (VES), 6 Vehicle Detection Systems (VDS), and one Variable Message Sign (VMS).

    KURA added that a surveillance system comprising 20 Closed-Circuit TV (CCTV) cameras would also be installed at the junctions.

    On a phone call with the Director General, Eng. Silas Kinoti noted that the ITS system was aimed at addressing the flow of traffic at key junctions that were experiencing snarl-ups.

    “The project also involves the completion of the detailed design of the Traffic Management Center (TMC) building and the implementation of the construction works with fixtures, furniture, equipment, and other facilities to operate the TMC building.” Eng. Silas Kinoti said.

    A circulated notice to the newsroom indicated the procedures set to be followed for bidders for the supply of those types of equipment.

    “Bidders will also supply and install hardware and software to house the ITS equipment and operate the new traffic management system at the TMC building,” read the notice in part.

    According to KURA, part of the Ksh. 8 billion loans secured from the Export-Import Bank of Korea would be used to pay contractors to undertake the project.

    The design and build works are expected to take a period of two years and six months from the award of the tender date.

    “After the completion, the contractor shall dispatch experts for two years to support and assist the Employer’s sustainable mandate,” read the statement in part.

    While KURA did not detail the 25 junctions targeted in the program, the road agency had earlier indicated Thika Road as one of the key beneficiaries of the mega project.

    “The expansion plans will cover 20 intersections and the construction of BRT line 5 Linking Thika road to Mombasa road via Outering road,” KURA stated on its website.

    Road users have lauded the important steps followed by the road agency to transport the transport sector improving security for both pedestrians and drivers of all ranges.

    DG Kinoti has lauded the move saying that through the able leadership of the current CS transport Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen, he is set to impose an unbreakable record for a long decade.

  • SAMSUNG GALAXY Buds 2 Pro Brings Enhanced Ambient Sound For People With Hearing Disabilities

    SAMSUNG GALAXY Buds 2 Pro Brings Enhanced Ambient Sound For People With Hearing Disabilities

    Whether listening to your favorite music, or simply tuning into or tuning out your surroundings, the Galaxy Buds2 Pro offers the ultimate in sound for everyone. As we recognize Global Accessibility Awareness Day, Samsung is committed to helping those who are hard of hearing better enjoy the sounds of the world around them with the introduction of new enhanced Ambient Sound.

    Making Technology More Accessible and Inclusive

    Previously available at three levels of customization, the updated Ambient Sound feature which gives users the ability to listen to and stay aware of their surroundings now adds two additional levels, offering five levels of amplification and providing the benefit of improved hearing to even more users.

    To assess the feature’s efficacy, a clinical trial was undertaken by the University of Iowa’s Hearing Aid and Aging Research Laboratory. Their research concluded that Galaxy Buds2 Pro significantly improved speech perception in those with mild-to-moderate hearing loss. A similar trial conducted by Samsung Medical Center also found that the Galaxy Buds2 Pro could be an effective tool to help those with mild-to-moderate hearing loss to better communicate in a quiet place.

    “With the enhanced ambient sound feature, we hope to bring a transformative listening experience to people who are hard of hearing. We believe everyone should enjoy the wonders of technology and communication, irrespective of their hearing abilities. This isn’t just about a product, it’s about how we can make life more inclusive, supportive, and enjoyable for all our customers. With the Galaxy Buds2 Pro, we’re striving to make that vision a reality” Said Mr. Charles Kimari, Director of Mobile eXperience Samsung East Africa

    Bringing New Levels to Audio Customization

    With this improved feature, Galaxy Buds2 Pro users can also fine-tune their Ambient Sound settings across a variety of needs. Users can adjust the volumes on the left and the right respectively, as well as customize their Ambient Sound tone range from soft to clear across five different stages. Additionally, Ambient Sound can tune to a users’ ears through the Adapt Ambient Sound feature, allowing for even more clarity in helping users hear the world around them.

    “We are excited to be introducing the new enhanced accessibility feature of the Galaxy Buds2 Pro to users on Global Accessibility Awareness Day,” said Han-gil Moon, Master and Head of Advanced Audio Lab, MX Business at Samsung Electronics. “Samsung will continue to work to help each and every user experience the best possible audio anytime, anywhere with their Galaxy Buds2 Pro.”

    Availability

    The enhanced Ambient Sound feature will be progressively released on Galaxy Buds2 Pro via software updates in coming weeks.

  • Xiaomi Moves Up on Boston Consulting’s 50 Most Innovative Companies List

    Xiaomi Moves Up on Boston Consulting’s 50 Most Innovative Companies List

    Boston Consulting Group (BCG) has ranked Xiaomi 29th on its 50 Most Innovative Companies of 2023 list, two places higher than last year. The designation is recognition that Xiaomi makes innovation a priority, commits investment and talent to it, and works to transform investment into results. In this year’s first quarter, Xiaomi’s research and development (R&D) expenses increased by 17.7% compared to the year before, reaching RMB4.1 billion. As of March 31, 2023, the number of R&D personnel reached approximately 16,500, which was more than 50% of Xiaomi’s employees. Xiaomi’s R&D efforts have yielded the company more than 32,000 patents worldwide as of March 31, 2023. Total R&D investment for 2023 is expected to exceed RMB20 billion.

     

    The company has embraced technological transformation, including Artificial Intelligence (AI). It officially established an AI Lab Foundation Model team in April and has more than 1,200 AI-related employees. The company will continue to expand AI-related user scenarios, maximize advances in technology, and explore opportunities with potential partners.

     

    BCG’s Most Innovative Companies ranking is based on a survey of more than 1,000 global innovation executives who were polled in December 2022 and January 2023. The survey assesses a company’s performance in four categories: global mindshare, industry peer view, industry disruption, and value creation. BCG has published its annual innovation report since 2003. Other companies on the 2023 list include Amazon, Alphabet, Microsoft, Siemens, Pfizer, SpaceX, Nike, IBM, etc.

     

    Xiaomi identifies 2023 as the crucial year for accelerating Xiaomi’s growth. The company will remain resolute in advancing its new business strategy with a focus on high-quality development anchored on its relentless pursuit of technological advancement and its mission to let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technology.

  • InTouch and GPT joins forces to streamline card services across Africa

    InTouch and GPT joins forces to streamline card services across Africa

    GTP, a specialised provider of prepaid and virtual card processing solutions, and InTouch, a leading pan-African fintech, have joined forces in a strategic partnership to democratise access to card credentials for millions of consumers across Africa. This collaboration aims to bridge the gap between digital payment platforms and card-based transactions, giving InTouch customers access to cross-border transactions through Visa credentials.

     

    Access to card credentials plays a pivotal role in Africa’s financial ecosystem, opening doors to a wide range of economic opportunities and driving financial inclusion. Studies currently estimate that 90% of transactions conducted in Africa are still reliant on cash, highlighting the significant gap in digital financial inclusion across the continent. However, McKinsey argues that card-linked digital wallets are already a significant driver of growth in issuance and usage of cards. Prepaid cards are decoupled from the traditional banking infrastructure, allowing for banks and fintech companies to give more people access to a globally accepted payments method without a need for a traditional bank account.

     

    By partnering with GTP, an MFS Africa company, InTouch aims to democratise access to card credentials for its African customers across its 13 markets. This collaboration will enable users of InTouch’s innovative digital platform which aggregates over 400 services through its API` to seamlessly link their digital wallets to card credentials, enhancing their access to the global digital economy. Through the integration of GTP’s robust prepaid and virtual card processing solutions, InTouch users will be able to tap into the advantages of card-based transactions, including wider acceptance, enhanced security, and seamless integration with global payment networks.

     

    Omar Cissé, Founder of InTouch, expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, “With this partnership, we are democratizing access to card payments and enabling international and online payments as well as cash in and cash-outs in our TouchPoint network in Senegal and Ivory Coast and very soon in 16 other African countries. Our goal is to offer the simplest and most accessible solutions for digital payments to millions of customers across the African continent.”

     

    Christian Bwakira, CEO of GTP, stated, “InTouch is an innovative pan-African payments aggregator that has demonstrated consistent innovation in markets in which it operates. By working together, we will unlock the power of card credentials for millions of Africans across the continent and making borders matter less for them in the global digital economy.”

    The partnership will commence in Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire and expand into the rest of the continent.

  • Carrefour 20th Shop opening at business bay mall, Eastleigh

    Carrefour 20th Shop opening at business bay mall, Eastleigh

    Carrefour, owned and operated by Majid Al Futtaim in Kenya, has opened its 20th store in the country at Business Bay Mall in a bid to tap into customers in Nairobi’s Eastleigh and the larger Eastlands area.

    The 3,000 square-metre store will be one of the largest opened by Carrefour in the country since 2019 and promises to conveniently serve customers looking to shop from its wide array of products. The store will stock approximately 20,000 unique products spread across consumer goods, cleaning and household products, personal hygiene products, and fresh food including fruits and vegetables.

    Christophe Orcet, Regional Director of Carrefour – East Africa, Majid Al Futtaim Retail, stated: “The opening of our new store today is a true testament to our commitment to continue providing exceptional services to our customers as we strategically expand our footprint in the Kenyan market. Our goal is to offer the best affordable products in all our stores to benefit every household and offer real value and solutions to the rising cost of living in Kenya.”

    The new store will approximately employ 60 people spread across different departments. The store will also have dedicated e-commerce operations to increase convenience and shopping options for customers.

    “With respect to various aspects of the local economy, we want to provide our customers with as many options as possible and create incentives for them to exercise their purchasing power without jeopardising their financial stability. This is why we are keen on offering affordable prices with various offers and discounts as we continue to celebrate our 7th anniversary campaign of Asante Mara Saba,” added Orcet.

    With the new addition, Carrefour now operates 20 stores countrywide with 16 located in Nairobi, while Kisumu and Mombasa host two stores each. The stores are strategically located in various malls in the three cities including the Hub, Business Bay Mall, the Village Market, Galleria Shopping Mall, the Sarit Centre, the Junction Mall, Thika Road Mall, Two Rivers Mall, Southfields Mall, Valley Arcade and Kilimani in Nairobi, United Mall and Mega Plaza in Kisumu and City Mall and Center Point Mall in Nyali and Diani respectively.

    Since its entry into the Kenyan market in 2016, Carrefour has worked to continuously diversify its services and sustain the brand within host communities. It is now impacting more than 1 million Kenyans through its flagship sustainability projects in education, environmental conservation and social protection, as well as offering jobs to hundreds of Kenyans.

    The opening of the store comes a week after the retailer marked its 7th anniversary in Kenya. Customers still have the chance to enjoy fully paid-for shopping trolleys as well as daily offers and discounts on various products including groceries, household items, personal care and hygiene, and electronics, in-store and online via the MAF Carrefour App.

    About Majid Al Futtaim

    Founded in 1992, Majid Al Futtaim is a diversified lifestyle conglomerate spanning 16 countries across the Middle East, Africa and Asia. The company employs 46,000 people representing 114 nationalities and welcomes 600 million customers to its shopping malls, communities, retail and entertainment destinations each year.

    With owned assets valued at US$18 billion, Majid Al Futtaim has the highest credit rating (BBB) among privately-held corporates in the region. The company is committed to becoming Net Positive in water and carbon by 2040.

    About Carrefour

    Carrefour was introduced to the region in 1995 by UAE company Majid Al Futtaim.

    The Company is the franchisee for Carrefour in over 30 markets across the Middle East, Africa and Asia. To meet the growing needs of its diverse customer base and communities, Carrefour offers omnichannel customer experiences tailored to the needs of the modern consumer.

    Through its innovative physical and digital customer services, Carrefour provides access to an unrivalled choice of quality products, at unbeatable value for the 770,000 customers it serves daily. Committed to supporting local economies, producers and suppliers in the communities it serves, Carrefour resources over 80 per cent of its products from the region.

  • SAMSUNG UNVEILS REVOLUTIONARY 98-INCH TV, SETTING NEW STANDARDS IN HOME ENTERTAINMENT

    SAMSUNG UNVEILS REVOLUTIONARY 98-INCH TV, SETTING NEW STANDARDS IN HOME ENTERTAINMENT

    Samsung, a global leader in consumer electronics, has unveiled its latest groundbreaking innovation in home entertainment with the launch of the impressive 98-inch Neo QLED TV. This stunning display promises to transform the way consumers experience their favorite movies, sports events, and gaming sessions, bringing them closer to the action than ever before.

    Featuring state-of-the-art technology and a breathtaking design, the 98-inch TV sets a new standard for immersive viewing experiences. With its expansive screen size, the 98-inch Neo QLED TV delivers an unparalleled level of realism, allowing viewers to feel fully immersed in the content they love. Whether it’s the latest blockbuster movie, a live sporting event, or a thrilling video game, users will be captivated by the lifelike visuals and vibrant colors brought to life on this impressive display.

    According to market research firm Omdia, the global market size of 85-inch screens has grown exponentially from 180,000 units sold in 2019 to 1.87 million units sold in 2022. Likewise, for 98-inch screens, the global market has increased from less than 1,000 units sold in 2019 to about 160,000 units sold in 2022.

    Speaking at the unveiling of the TV, Head of Consumer Electronics at Samsung Electronics East Africa, Sam Odhiambo, said that the Samsung 98-inch TV combines industry-leading picture quality with advanced features to create an unforgettable entertainment experience. “Equipped with cutting-edge resolution, viewers can enjoy incredibly sharp and detailed images that reveal even the smallest nuances in every frame. The TV also incorporates Quantum HDR technology, enhancing contrast and providing a wider range of colors for a more dynamic and lifelike picture,” he said.

    Mr. Odhiambo added that in addition to its remarkable visual capabilities, the 98-inch TV comes packed with smart features that elevate convenience and accessibility.

    “About ten years ago, a 60-inch TV was considered a large TV. But as time went by, 65-inch TVs became mainstream, and now 75-inch and 85-inch TVs have become popular, demonstrating consumers’ growing demand for larger TVs,” said Heejin Chae, TV Product Planning, Samsung Electronics. “In fact, our customer survey showed that 75% of consumers bought, on average, a TV 13 inches bigger than their previously purchased TV model.”

    Furthermore, the Samsung 98-inch TV is designed to be a hub for all forms of entertainment. It supports an array of connectivity options, allowing users to effortlessly access their favorite content from various sources. Whether it’s streaming services, gaming consoles, or external devices, this TV offers a seamless and hassle-free entertainment ecosystem.

    Samsung remains committed to user-centric innovation and sustainability. The 98-inch TV incorporates energy-efficient technologies, ensuring minimal power consumption without compromising performance. This dedication to eco-friendly design aligns with Samsung’s long-standing commitment to reducing its environmental footprint and creating a greener future.

  • Pwani Oil Honors Exceptional Women for Their Contribution to Society

    Pwani Oil Honors Exceptional Women for Their Contribution to Society

    ·         The honours were executed in partnership with Africa Inland Church (AIC)

    ·         The celebration centred around honouring extraordinary mothers who have made significant contributions to their families and the community at large.

    Leading edible oils manufacturer Pwani Oil has paid tribute to over 150 remarkable women for their outstanding contributions to the community and their transformative impact on people’s lives.

    The event took place in a heartfelt event in Malili, Makueni County organized in collaboration with Africa Inland Church (AIC). At least 13 AIC churches participated in the celebration marked with prayers and religious renditions from scores of choirs and leading gospel artistes.

    Aligned with the company’s mission to uplift and refine the communities it serves; the initiative was part of Pwani Oil’s Month of May Mother’s Day celebration.

    Speaking at the event, The Makueni Deputy Governor Ms. Lucy Mulili thanked Pwani Oil and emphasized the essential role that mothers play in shaping societies. “Our mother’s selflessness, resilience, and unwavering dedication serve as the foundation of our thriving communities. Through their tireless efforts, our mothers create a nurturing environment where families thrive, and the community flourishes. I thank Pwani Oil for their gesture”, she said.

    Pwani Oil Regional Sales Manager Pauline Mbinda said “As a company, we extend our heartfelt wishes to all the incredible mothers in Malili, Kenya and beyond. Kindly, consider this a tribute to your immeasurable impact and a recognition of your profound role in shaping communities and enriching lives”

    The celebration centred around honouring extraordinary mothers who have made significant contributions to their families and the community at large. Each woman in attendance received a specially curated hamper as a token of gratitude and admiration for their exceptional deeds, symbolizing the company’s appreciation for their remarkable efforts.

    Furthermore, the attendees were treated to exclusive discounts on Pwani Oil products, offering them an opportunity to explore and experience the extraordinary quality and value that Pwani Oil brings to their daily lives. All items on offer sold out, underlining the confidence the buyers have in Pwani Oil products. The event also showcased the company’s diverse range of high quality products, including the renowned Salit, Detrex, and Sawa, as well as the beloved Ushindi brand. Attendees had the privilege of firsthand experience with Pwani Oil’s outstanding offerings.

    The company reaffirmed its commitment to refining the lives of the communities it serves and demonstrated its deep appreciation for the extraordinary women who play a vital role in shaping society and enriching lives.