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  • Wetang’ula to Kalonzo : Stop the hardline Stance

    Wetang’ula to Kalonzo : Stop the hardline Stance

    National Assembly Speaker Hon. Moses Wetang’ula has asked Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka to drop the hardline stance against forming a government of inclusivity and a broad-based cabinet.

    Wetang’ula said it was unfortunate that the former Vice President rejected President William Ruto’s plea to Azimio leaders to form a government of national unity.

    Speaking in Bungoma County, Wetang’ula challenged the Kalonzo-led Azimio leaders to collaborate with President Ruto noting that the formation of a broad-based cabinet is aimed at addressing demands that were raised by pro-reform youths.

    He noted that the current state of the country is delicate and requires selflessness from politicians to restore stability.

    “It is through the selfless and patriotic actions of the political class that national healing will be stimulated after the recent period of youth-led demands for reforms and improved governance,” said Wetang’ula.

    The Speaker made the remarks when he laid the foundation stone for the construction of the Webuye East Technical and Vocational College in Bungoma County.

    He was accompanied by Bungoma senator Wafula Wakoli, MPs John Waluke, John Makali, Didmus Barasa, and the host Martin Pepela among other leaders.

    He welcomed ODM leader Raila Odinga’s decision to have key members of his party nominated to the Cabinet, noting that the move would cool down political temperatures and stimulate healing of the nation.

    “Former Prime Minister Odinga’s move is patriotic and has reinforced President Ruto’s efforts to heal and restore stability in the country,” said Wetang’ula.

    Wetang’ula said there was still time for the Kalonzo-led team to abandon its hardline stance and collaborate in forming a government of national unity.

    The Speaker said the government of national unity was essential to achieving Kenya’s economic stability and prosperity.

    The Speaker further said Odinga’s critics who are lashing at him for opting to work with the government were wrong and asked them to rethink their stand.

    He noted that jubilations that greeted the nomination of ODM leaders to the cabinet in their backyards were a sign of acceptance.

    “The reception by supporters of leaders from the Opposition nominated to the Cabinet coupled by a warm welcome accorded to President Ruto by locals in Mombasa recently should be an eye opener to those opposed to the decision by the Head of State,” he added.

    And when he spoke later on at Nzoia sugar factory during a meeting with staff and farmers, Wetang’ula took issue with Luhya MPs who poured cold water on President Ruto’s decision to work with the Opposition.

    He noted that the MPs who have gone public lashing at the president and planning a rally in Kakamega to chat the way forward for the Mulembe nation after the move are lost.

    “I appeal to Luhya leaders opposing President Ruto’s initiatives, reminding them that Kenya’s well-being surpasses individual interests and urge them to respect the leaders appointed to serve in the government,” he said.

    He added: “Why is it that it is only in Western that leaders are agitated with the president’s move? We have seen local people celebrate in Nyanza, Central, and Coast!”

    Wetang’ula noted that the Nzoia sugar factory which has been on its knees due to financial challenges is on a recovery path after the government injected funds and reforms.

    He noted that the government recently disbursed Kshs.150 million to settle salary arrears of staff and promised them that the balance would be cleared.

    He noted that the resumption of cane crushing by the Mill was a positive move that is giving hope to farmers who rely on it for their livelihood.

  • It’s all systems go for the 2nd edition of the Sportpesa national 7s rugby Circuit

    It’s all systems go for the 2nd edition of the Sportpesa national 7s rugby Circuit

    From Left - Kenya Harlequins Players, Wiseman Aganya, Sandra Oduor and Jan Remke with SportPesa's Willis Ojwang 2nd Left
    From Left – Kenya Harlequins Players, Wiseman Aganya, Sandra Oduor, and Jan Remke with SportPesa’s Willis Ojwang 2nd Left

    The much-anticipated SportPesa Nationals 7s Rugby Circuit is back this year with the 2nd edition receiving a major financial boost of Kes 16.5 million from SportPesa, the title sponsor, in readiness for the top-tier rugby showcase.

    According to Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), the circuit will not only be an important head-liner for identifying the next crop of talent with the potential to join Kenya’s National 7s team Shujaa but also provides a good preparation ground for participating affiliate clubs ahead of the Safari 7s slated for October 2024.

    “The SportPesa National 7s Rugby Circuit is a cornerstone of our rugby calendar, providing a platform for showcasing the immense talent from all around the country. We therefore welcome this support for the game which will undoubtedly elevate the standard of the competition this year,” said Thomas Odundo, Chief Executive Officer, KRU.

    Kenya-Harlequins-Victor-Sudi-Chair-Wiseman-Agany-Ctr-Player-Sandra-Oduor-Wing-Jan-Remke-Ctr-and-Peris-Mukoko-Dir.-Women-Rugby-scaled.
    Kenya-Harlequins-Victor-Sudi-Chair-Wiseman-Agany-Ctr-Player-Sandra-Oduor-Wing-Jan-Remke-Ctr-and-Peris-Mukoko-Dir.-Women-Rugby-scaled.

    The Division One competition will see 16 teams fight for bragging rights while Division 2 will field up to 24. The host clubs in the six-leg tournament will receive Kes 1 million each to enhance their preparations ahead of the high-stakes encounter that promises to be a thrilling clash of the titans.

    During the cheque handover and unveiling of the tournament trophy, Willis Ojwang the Communications and Partnerships Manager at SportPesa reiterated the firm’s continued commitment towards sports development in the country while urging fans to come out in large numbers for the circuit.

    “We are proud to partner with the KRU and the affiliate clubs in hosting the second edition of the SportPesa National 7s Rugby Circuit. This sponsorship underscores our continued dedication to fostering the growth of 7s rugby in Kenya and we look forward to an exciting season as the circuit goes around the five cities in the country,” said Ojwang.

    Kicking off the season is the 57th edition of the Christie 7s scheduled for 27th and 28th July 2024 at the RFUEA Grounds on Ngong Road, Nairobi.  Hosted by the Kenya Harlequins, Christie 7s will start with the floodlit veteran’s clash on Friday, July 26, featuring Impala RFC, KCB RFC, Nondescripts RFC, Mean Machine RFC, Mwamba RFC and Kenya Harlequins RFC. This year will also see the Harlequin Ladies (Quin Queens) put out in three legs of the circuit namely Christie 7s, Prinsloo 7s, and Kabeberi 7s.

    Thomas Odundo - CEO. Kenya Rugby Union
    Thomas Odundo – CEO. Kenya Rugby Union

    Tournament Director Nekesa Were while highlighting the preparations said Christie 7s will offer the full fan experience, coinciding with the National team Shujaa playing at the Olympics in Paris, France as well as the Kenya Simbas who are featuring at the Rugby Africa Men’s Cup in Kampala Uganda.

    “This year’s Christie 7s promises to be the best yet. We have made significant preparations to ensure an exceptional experience for players, fans, and partners. From history, we know that the National 7s circuit is often the first-time live rugby experience for about ten percent of fans attending the games. We intend to be their gateway to a fulfilling first impression on the quality of Kenyan rugby,” she said.

    Christie 7s will lay the ground for the KRU 7s set for 3rd and 4th August at the ASK Kakamega Showground in Kakamega County. KRU 7s highlights a major addition made to the circuit this year acting as a replacement for the Tisap 7s which was discontinued last year. The third leg will shift to Kisumu County for Dala 7s which takes centre-stage on the 17th and 18th of August before the Kabeberi 7s winds up the month on the 24th and 25th of August.

    Mombasa County will welcome the fifth leg with the Driftwood 7s scheduled for the 7th and 8th of September which will then usher in Nakuru’s Prinsloo 7s on the 14th and 15th of September which is the sixth and final leg of the SportPesa National 7s Circuit 2024.

    The 2023 SportPesa National 7s champions, KCB Rugby Club, aim to replicate their stellar performance this year. They face a daunting task from strong contenders as they bid to retain their title. Last edition, the Bankers secured an exhilarating victory against Kabras to lift the trophy and claim the top prize.

  • Integrity Watch Lobby Group Calls for Political Accountability and Respect for Rule of Law

    Integrity Watch Lobby Group Calls for Political Accountability and Respect for Rule of Law

    Mr Ouma Jowi, National Coordinator Integrity Watch addressing the Press Conference
    Mr Ouma Jowi, National Coordinator Integrity Watch addressing the Press Conference

    A governance lobby group has warned foreign forces that could be keen on interfering in Kenya’s political system to keep off the country’s internal affairs, while at the same time calling for mature politics, good governance, and constitutionalism from the government.

    Integrity Watch says Kenya is a sovereign state and should therefore be left alone to run her affairs without external interference from states or formations wanting to drive their agenda.

    Terming itself a collaboration of organizations and individual anti-corruption crusaders, bloggers, activists, and whistleblowers, Integrity Watch reaffirms that they have a mandate to give full effect to Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 on leadership and integrity.

    Addressing a media conference in Nairobi today, the lobby underscored the need for observation of the rule of law, constitutionalism, and democracy in Kenya, holding all political leaders to account on the backdrop of anti-government picketing staged by the Gen Z bracket witnessed in recent weeks.

    “The past few days our country has seen remarkable social movements for democratic change around the country…they have demanded greater justice and dignity, more transparent political processes, a fair share of political power and an end to corruption,” a statement by Mr. Ouma Jowi, National Coordinator Integrity Watch, reads in part.

    “The rule of law and democracy are interlinked and mutually reinforcing. The rule of law is based on key democratic principles such as equality before the law, accountability, separation of powers, and participation in decision-making. Like democracy, the rule of law is a principle of governance anchored in participatory and consultative processes. To be legitimate, laws should be widely consulted and reflective of society’s needs and values.”

    Jowi noted that a democratically elected parliament and a vibrant and strong civil society movement stand to provide ideal mechanisms for realizing the previous.

    The lobby group condemned what it termed continuous incitements and the barrage of hate speech in political gatherings and on social media, urging Kenyans to hold dear the fact that we have only one country which is irreplaceable in case it is destroyed.

    Among the demands Integrity Watch gave to the political leadership and Kenyans in general are that all social movements should uphold patriotism and constitutionalism, politicians to embrace tolerance and respect to such movements, and all social movements to consider dialogue on their different platforms in a bid to foster peace and unity.

  • Startimes Introduces Special Price Adjustments to Attract New Subscribers

    Startimes Introduces Special Price Adjustments to Attract New Subscribers

    Startimes Media, a leading Pay TV company, has rolled out a special price adjustment offer for all new subscribers.

    This offer, which aims to provide affordable access to high-quality entertainment, is valid for one month, starting from July 10, 2024, and ending on August 31st, 2024.

    Previously, new subscribers had to buy a DTH decoder for KSH 2999 and pay KSH 500 for the Smart bouquet in the first month, totaling KSH 3499.

    While under the new offer, subscribers can purchase the DTH decoder for KSH 2999 and pay only KSH 200 for the first month of the Smart bouquet, reducing the total cost to KSH 3199.

    Myke Mwai, Head of PR and Content Syndicate at Startimes in a statement emphasized the company’s commitment to making premium content more accessible to a broader audience across the Country.

    He said that Startimes’ new price adjustment offer represents a strategic move to broaden the company customer base by making high-quality entertainment more accessible.

    “We understand the importance of affordable entertainment, especially in these challenging times; our goal is to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the best of what Startimes has to offer without financial strain.” Mwai said.

    Mwai said this reduction is aimed at easing the financial burden on new customers and encouraging more people to join the Startimes family.

    “At Startimes, we believe that entertainment is not just a luxury but a necessity. It brings families together, provides educational content, and offers a much-needed escape from daily stresses. By reducing the initial cost for our new subscribers, we hope to make a positive impact on our community,” he explained.

    He said that the Smart bouquet offers a wide array of channels, including sports, movies, news, and educational content.

  • GPLC Africa 2024 Endorses Youth Leadership In Push For African Renaissance

    GPLC Africa 2024 Endorses Youth Leadership In Push For African Renaissance

    As this year’s Global Peace Leadership Conference drew to a close, young people took center stage as major drivers of the African Renaissance with participants calling for increased investment in youth led collaboration initiatives and activities in the continent.

    The conference, which happened on the backdrop of a youth led countrywide protest against new proposed tax laws in Kenya, commenced on June 25, 2024, at the Konza Technopolis in Machakos County with a commitment by participants to environment conservation as an important tool for ensuring peace and social cohesion.

    Led by Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon, Chairman and Founder of the Global Peace Foundation and Priti Chandaria, Trutee Chandaria Foundation among other partners, over 1000 participants including primary and secondary school children planted 30,000 trees in support of the greening Konza initiative.

    Conference organizers cancelled the official opening ceremony initially scheduled for Wednesday June 26, 2024 due to the week-long protests that intensified on June 25, 2024 leading to the death of multiple protesters on account of law enforcement and the destruction of property including the Kenyan parliament and city hall, seat of the county government of the capital city Nairobi, that were both partially set ablaze.

    The ceremony was substituted by prayers for the nation and the injured with the conference issuing a statement urging for calm and dialogue in resolving the impasse between the state and aggrieved protesters.

    “Every successful transformation movement is a peaceful one. Anything that leads to violence and destruction only begets more violence and destruction,” said Dr. Moon, Chairman and Founder of the Global Peace Foundation lauding the Kenyan youth for taking the reins in advocating for impactful causes and urged them to maintain the spirit of peace.

    During the closing ceremony various speakers from across the continent championed youthful engagement in driving change and collaboration in the spirit of Ubuntu, while calling on African leaders to show their commitment to peace and ethical governance by investing in young people and who would take Africa to its next phase of prosperity.

    ”Promoting democratic principles, transparency, and accountability is central to the African renaissance story. Good governance, political stability and the respect for human rights are therefore critical tools that must be supported to help position Africa as a key player in global peace and leadership development,” said former President of Nigeria His Excellency Olusegun Obasanjo.

    Speaking during the Youth Leadership and Sustainable Development track, Moses Segun Obalade, Executive Director of the Peace Education and Network practice in Nigeria expressed the need for policies by African governments that reward and prioritize societal efforts and contributions towards the African renaissance spirit of Ubuntu.

    His sentiments were further echoed by Somalia’s Abdisalan Dualeh, the Executive Director, Somaliland Youth Development and Voluntary Organization, who called for the creation and strengthening of youth led Pan-African organizations that would carry on the work of African integration and collaboration in pursuit of peace and sustainable development.

    The session that zeroed in, on the urgency and agency of restoring African economies by promoting self-reliance of the youth as one means of achieving sustainable development, called for simplified market access and enablement through financial inclusion, the lack of which has impeded youth participation and access opportunities especially affecting many marginalized and rural communities across Africa.

    “Financial access is still largely governed by an individual’s proficiency and understanding of financial concepts. Those with higher skills and expertise therefore have a better likelihood of achieving their financial goals.

    Unfortunately, this also means the majority poor will keep getting left behind with each generational advancement and which is one of the narratives that an African renaissance can change by opening new avenues for collaboration and learning to ensure each year we are lifting up more and more people out of poverty,” said inclusivity champion, Rachida El Rhdiou, relating her perspective with the situation back in her home country of Morocco.

    Otim Brian Joseph, the Former Deputy Youth Ambassador to the East Africa Community for the Republic ofUganda, called attention to the need for upscaling market access and skills transfer through digital technologies and programmes to reach far flung populations with priority on empowering women and youth entrepreneurs who currently need these services the most.

    The Patron of the Global Peace Foundation in Kenya, industrialist Dr. Manu Chandaria, in his message to the conference vocalized his vision for an African renaissance that would unlock the enormous potential of Africa and its people while urging those blessed with resources and opportunity to take lead in facilitating Africa’s development and eventual transformation starting at the local level while contributing new ideas to the continent.

    Among the key take outs of the conference was the call for Africans to also embrace their shared cultural, economic, and political heritage as a transformative movement to not only revive but also celebrate Africa’s unique diversity with a renewed commitment to fostering global peace and stability.

  • Mediamax’s Nakuru based Reporter Shot by Police during Protest

    Mediamax’s Nakuru based Reporter Shot by Police during Protest

    MediaMax journalist, Catherine Wanjeri injured during protests.
    MediaMax journalist, Catherine Wanjeri was injured during protests.

    Mediamax Limited journalist Catherine Wanjeri was on Tuesday, July 16 shot while covering anti-government protests in Nakuru city county.

    The journalist was allegedly shot twice in the thigh by police officers from the photos depicted online.

    During the demos, the reports indicate how Wanjeri was wearing a press jacket and had a press card during the shooting incident only to be shot while exercising her duty.

    The Mediamax scribe was rushed to the Valley Hospital in Nakuru for immediate treatment as the Nakuru-based Press association released a statement condemning the act.

    The Association has called for a thorough probe into the matter. “We condemn such violence against journalists and demand that the government and police take immediate action against the rogue officers involved” Nakuru Journalists Association statement read.

    The statement further read, “We will not relent in our further pursuit of justice. We extend our deepest appreciation to the good Samaritan who acted swiftly to take Ms. Catherine to the hospital.”

    Wanjeri was among three people who were shot at by the police in Nakuru. The second person was shot in the leg while the third one was shot in the back.

    The shooting of the journalist caused uproar online with netizens condemning security officers over the incident.

    Nakuru-based journalist said, “This arbitrary and violent act against a member of the press, who was identified by her press jacket, is unacceptable. Such attacks on journalists and the clampdown on the fourth estate undermine the fundamental principles of press freedom and threaten the very core of our democracy.”

    Other social media users wondered why the journalist was shot yet she was wearing a press jacket.

  • Naivas gets recognition for brand exception, consumer trust

    Naivas gets recognition for brand exception, consumer trust

    Leading retailer Naivas Supermarket has been awarded the esteemed Superbrands becoming the first retail chain to achieve the prestigious recognition.

    The award is a recognition of its exceptional brand reputation and consumer trust, cements the supermarket’s status as a leader in the retail industry.

    The Superbrands Certification is bestowed upon brands that demonstrate outstanding quality, reliability, and distinction within their respective industries. Qualified brands, such as Naivas, receive the Superbrands Award Seal, which can be prominently displayed on advertising and marketing materials, websites, packaging, and other brand assets.

    Research conducted by leading market research firms including Nielsen, Synovate, BDRC, TNS, and others consistently highlights the significant impact of the Superbrands Award Seal on consumer behavior.

    Studies have shown that consumers are more than 70% more likely to purchase products or services displaying the Superbrands Award Seal, underscoring the importance of this prestigious certification.

    Speaking about the achievement, Peter Mukuha, Chief of Operations at Naivas, expressed gratitude for the recognition and reiterated Naivas’ commitment to living up to its mission of delivering a world-class shopping experience.

    “We are honored to receive the Superbrands Certification, which reflects our dedication to providing high-quality products and exceptional customer service. This esteemed recognition further motivates us to continue innovating and exceeding the expectations of our valued customers.”

    Naivas Supermarket has distinguished itself within the retail industry through its commitment to always delivering value to customers.

    It has remained ahead of the curve through innovation and delivering quality all geared towards customer satisfaction.

    With a wide range of products including its fresh offering, convenient locations, and a reputation for excellence, Naivas has truly earned the trust of Kenyan consumers. As a Kenyan homegrown brand that has brought the global shopping experience to the country, it has always remained true to its values. Serving every customer with the unmistakable Kenyan hospitality who in turn have crowned it with one of the greatest honors a brand can earn globally.

  • This is Why CS Trade, Rebecca Miano was dismissed Of Procurement and Financial Fraud

    This is Why CS Trade, Rebecca Miano was dismissed Of Procurement and Financial Fraud

    Former Investments, Trade and Industry Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano has been accused of procurement and financial irregularities during her tenure as the CEO of the Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (Kengen).

    In an ouster petition filed at the High Court, a lobby group has accused the former CS of spending Ksh94 billion of taxpayers’ money on white elephant power generation projects.

    She is accused of contributing to recent frequent national blackouts by commissioning unusable high voltage transmission lines and commissioning feasibility studies on two new power plants that never worked.

    The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has also been cited as an interested party in the case whose mention is slated for January 29, 2024, before Justice Lawrence Mugambi.

    “There was illegal, unlawful, and irregular misuse of taxpayers’ money a fact confirmed by the Auditor General in her reports for the years 2020, 2021, and 2022,” says an affidavit by Francis Awino filed in support of the suit.

    According to Awino, the former CS Miano is also why Kenyans suffer huge power bills and blackouts because huge losses were reported due to funds wastage and incomplete projects.

    The CS is also accused of flouting procurement rules by spending Ksh645 million on feasibility studies for new power production plants that have never been constructed to date.

    According to court documents, this includes Ksh592 million spent on a feasibility study for the construction of the Meru Wind Power plant and Ksh82 million for the Karura Hydro Power plant.

    Miano was moved from the East African Community, ASALS, and Regional Development Ministry in October 2023 to the recent Trade Ministry in the last Cabinet reshuffle by President William Ruto and was finally fired for corruption and incompetence in the ministry.

    While appearing before the National Assembly’s Energy Committee on December 21, 2023, former Energy Cabinet Secretary Davies Chirchir blamed the incessant nationwide blackouts on network overloads due to years of lack of investment in the country’s power generation and transmission capacity.

    However, according to the petition filed before Justice Mugambi, Kengen spent Ksh79,324,783,562 on drilling geothermal wells between the years 2011 and 2015 but was never connected to the national grid.

    The wells were financed through a loan from the Export-Import Bank of China, according to the court documents.

    Despite the wells remaining idle, taxpayers continue to pay the principal sum and interest of the loans while at the same time paying through the nose for electricity procured from thermal Independent Power Producers (IPPs).

    “No corresponding revenue had been realized to date and the Respondent did not give the details of when the wells are likely to be utilized in generation of power. As a result, there was no value for money obtained on the investment of Sh79,324,783,562 on drilling wells,” states the petition.

    The petitioner also accused the former CS of allowing power transmission lines constructed by Kengen for Ksh4 billion in 2009 to be used by another company to generate revenue while committing taxpayers to service a loan used for their construction.

    Also listed is the alleged irregular contract award for the construction of Hydro Plaza.

    “Further, a review of procurement records revealed the works were initially awarded at a cost of Sh150,005,216 but the contract was terminated on nonperformance and subsequently awarded to another contractor at a contract sum of Sh261,264,205, an increase of or 74 percent of the earlier contract sum,” says the petition.

    The case was expected to be mentioned before Justice Lawrence Mugambi on January 29, 2024, at the Milimani Law Courts.

  • Kayana Awards Program 2024 Celebrates Female Entrepreneurship

    Kayana Awards Program 2024 Celebrates Female Entrepreneurship

    Group photo for stakeholders during the Kayana Awards.

    The highly anticipated Kayana Awards took place Yesterday in Nairobi where Various winners in various business categories were celebrated.

    The event honoured the outstanding achievements of female entrepreneurs in the micro, small, and medium Enterprises (MSME) sector across various categories, showcasing their innovation, resilience, and commitment to community impact.

    The award process, renowned for its transparency and inclusivity, began with the close of nominations on February 29, 2024. This was followed by the judges’ finalist selection from March 8 to April 5, 2024. Finalist voting took place from April 15 to June 7, 2024, overseen by our esteemed judges, including Victor Otieno, Chris Maara, Chebet Cheruiyot, and Mercy Kimalat.
    “This year’s nominees represented a diverse array of businesses, each making significant
    contributions to their communities and industries,” said Victor Otieno.

    Voting Categories:
    1. Commitment to Staff Development: This category acknowledged small business
    owners who tapped into the strengths and talents of their employees, providing
    mentorship, skill-based training, flexible learning options, and fostering a supportive
    working environment.
    2. Community Impact: This category highlighted businesses that significantly contributed to their communities through economic sustainability, social consciousness, community
    cohesion, and cultivating relationships.
    3.Environmental Impact: Recognized MSMEs committed to environmental sustainability,
    showcasing their achievements to inspire others and promote best practices in the
    business community.
    4.Kayana’s Choice Award: Honoured business excellence based on reputation,
    professionalism, customer satisfaction, and quality of service or product within the
    Kayana Community.
    5. Most Adaptive Use of Technology: This category celebrated MSMEs that embraced
    technology solutions to offer efficient customer service, enhancing their operations in the modern business landscape.
    6.Most Innovative Business: Acknowledged businesses that introduced new ideas,
    services, and products, meeting the evolving demands of the market through constant
    innovation.
    7.Most Resilient Business: Recognized businesses demonstrating exceptional resilience in the face of challenges, showcasing strategic planning and readiness to navigate market shifts.
    8.
    Strong Leadership: Sought to honour business owners who inspired their teams, made
    responsible decisions, valued diversity, managed finances well, and created a culture of teamwork.
    9.The Diaspora Excellence Award: This special category celebrated exceptional African
    women entrepreneurs who successfully launched and scaled businesses across the
    continent, contributing to economic growth and social development.
    Kayana Female MSME Awards 2024 Nominees List:

    1. Commitment to Staff Development:
    ● Winner: Essenpark Limited
    ● 1st Runner-up: MRX Media Limited
    ● 2nd Runner-up: Spectrum Engineering
    2. Community Impact:
    ● Winner: Minat Bakery & Cake Zone
    ● 1st Runner-up: Kaya Nuts
    ● 2nd Runner-up: Soraya Teen Moms & Girls
    3.Environmental Impact:
    ● Winner: Eco Makaa Solutions
    ● 1st Runner-up: Tupike Ventures
    ● 2nd Runner-up: Kiasili Farm
    4.Kayana’s Choice Award:
    ● Winner: Diro Jewellers
    ● 1st Runner-up: Mutitu Honey
    ● 2nd Runner-up: HB Leather
    5. Most Adaptive Use of Technology:
    ● Winner: Gwiji for Women
    ● 1st Runner-up: GRise Systems Solutions
    ● 2nd Runner-up: Nyumba Zetu
    6.Most Innovative Business:
    ● Winner: Eco Nasi Leather
    ● 1st Runner-up: Viv’s In-houz Spa
    ● 2nd Runner-up: Zidallie Technologies Limited.
    7. Most Resilient Business:
    ● Winner: De Vani Chocolatier
    ● 1st Runner-up: Virtually Yours by Connie
    ● 2nd Runner-up: Everest Enterprises Limited
    8.Strong Leadership:
    ● Winner: The Chic Evangelist Collection
    ● 1st Runner-up: Teach for Kenya
    ● 2nd Runner-up: African Woman Global Network,
    9.The Diaspora Excellence Award:
    ● Winner: Africana Woman
    ● 1st Runner-up: Lamalo Essentials
    ● 2nd Runner-up: Krypia Finance

    Kayana Create cultivates a nurturing environment for women entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners to flourish. Their ethos revolves around fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment, providing a platform where dreamers, doers, and visionaries can thrive.
    Anchored on three core pillars, our commitment to the community is unwavering.

  • KNCCI LAUNCHES BAROMETER REPORT Q3

    KNCCI LAUNCHES BAROMETER REPORT Q3

    During the KNCCI Barometer Report Launch at Radisson Blu Hotel Nairobi.

    The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry launched the
    KNCCI Business Barometer Report Q3/2024 at the Radisson Blu Hotel at Upperhill,
    Nairobi.

    The KNCCI Q3 2024 Business Barometer Report aims to elucidate businesses’
    expectations for Q3 2024, drawing insights from their Q2 2024 experiences regarding
    financial performance and the broader business environment. This provides a forecast into the country’s business environment ensuring that all our efforts in advancing the economy are proactive. This particular report was focused on the Why; reasons behind the different expectations of the business enterprises identified.

    “The businesses are more confident in the reduction of their primary input cost
    compared to Q2 though manufacturing is coming out at the least optimistic sector on
    this metric. There is a need for increased efforts to support this struggling yet vital
    sector,” Dr. Eric Rutto, KNCCI President.
    One of the most significant insights from this report is the resilience and adaptability of our SMEs. It is encouraging to see that similar to Q2, majority of businesses sampled are optimistic about the growth of their revenue (71 percent) and staff size (66 percent  in Q3.

    Despite the challenges posed by the global economic downturn, our small and medium
    enterprises have demonstrated remarkable tenacity. They have pivoted, innovated, and
    found new ways to thrive. This spirit of resilience is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that is the backbone of our economy.

    The Chief Guest, the PS State Department of Investment Promotion, Abubakar Hassan
    Abubakar commended the good work by KNCCI on the unwavering commitment to
    advancing the interests of the business community.

    “As the State Department of Trade,we are committed to addressing these issues head-on. We will work closely with the KNCCI and other stakeholders to create a conducive environment for business growth. This includes streamlining regulatory processes, enhancing access to finance, and fostering Ban ecosystem that encourages innovation and competitiveness,” Said Abubakar Hassan Abubakar – PS, State Department of Investment Promotion.

    Unfavourable taxes and levies (44%) was identified as the main cause of the
    unfavourable regulatory environment challenge. “The best thing this government can do to the business community is to pay pending bills,” Kiprono Kitonny, Chairman, Nairobi Securities Exchanges (NSE). This will guarantee commercial vibrancy in Kenya.
    In his remarks, Patrick Nyangweso, KNCCI CEO, recognized the significant challenges and opportunities in the business community.

    “The report is an instrument that will be used to support and empower our members with information they need to decide on resource allocation to improve the business landscape in Kenya.” Said Patrick Nyangweso, KNCCI CEO.

    The education and agriculture sectors are most optimistic about a drop in primary input costs, while hospitality & tourism, and manufacturing are less optimistic. Majority of businesses (69%) are intentionally applying some climate change mitigation and adaptation actions in their business operations. The mining and energy sectors lead in applying climate mitigation and adaptation actions, while the retail and wholesale sector lags behind. Similar to Q2, businesses expect limited financial resources (32%),
    unfavorable regulations (22%), and supply chain instability (22%) to majorly affect their performance in Q3, high interest rates (31%) and limited access to credit (30%).
    In the Q3 Business Barometer Survey, KNCCI engaged 1011 businesses across the
    country, in all sectors, both members and non-members of KNCCI, and from the formal and informal sectors. The data collection was conducted through an online survey spanning 2 weeks as well as physical interviews in Nairobi. The physical interviews using enumerators is an addition to the data collection efforts of the Q2 Barometer Survey that only employed the use of an online survey.