Category: BUSINESS

25th March 2022, Naivas Supermarket today launched the first Easter Campaign.

The campaign promises to be authentically Kenyan while delivering memorable experiences through thematic campaigns all the while exceeding customer expectations.

This inaugural campaign comes barely a month after Kenyans took to social media to protest over the high cost of living with #lowefoodprices. This was to get the attention of powers that be on the plight of Kenyans about about the runaway food prices.

Even as Kenyans are already feeling the heat, the IMF is warning that inflation will only get worse due to high import costs and supply chain disruptions. “It is moments like this that define our character and with the odds stuck against the Kenyan people, as a homegrown retailer and supermarket of choice for the Kenyan people we have had to step up and truly live up to our promise, saves you money, at this very deciding moment in our history.

It is for this reason that we are launching an Easter campaign dubbed “Tusahau siasa tutakusave hii holiday” with the tagline being Kila Wiki…Kila Kaunti…Bila Siasa,” said Willy Kimani, Naivas Chief Commercial Officer.

“Through research and insights, we have come to appreciate that majority of Kenyans would rather enjoy every day everyday best prices and sales promotions of basic commodities. It is for this reason that we settled on everyday best price and sales promotions as the way we saw best fit to bring cheer during this holiday season.

As a homegrown brand that understands customer needs, we will do our small bidding in making the long holiday a little more bearable, affordable, and memorable,” continued Willy Kimani. “The campaign promises 9 weeks of the very best everyday price and exceptional sales promotions covering the school holidays, Ramadhan, Easter, Back to School, Labour Day, and Eid ul Fitr. What we are saying is this holiday period does not have to be grim, “Sahau siasa Tutakusave hii Holiday…Kila Siku…Kila Kaunti…Bila Siasa.” This has been made possible through support from our partners, who have seen to it that our customers enjoy great value across all categories ranging from fresh produce, daily groceries, household items, electronics and so much more,” concluded Willy Kimani.

LONDON, 22nd March 2022: Marriott International, Inc. today announced it has signed an agreement
with Baraka Lodges LTD. to enter the safari segment in Africa. JW Marriott Maasai Mara Lodge will be
located within the Mara National Reserve, one of Africa’s most renowned wildlife conservation and
wilderness regions. Offering discerning travelers an unparalleled setting, the elegant retreat expects to
welcome guests in 2023.

Overlooking the famed banks of the River Talek and on the edge of the reserve, JW Marriott Masai Mara
Lodge’s prime location will offer guests a distinctively elevated camp from which to discover the Masai
Mara National Reserve, its stunning vistas, abundant wildlife, and endless plains.

Plans for the new-build lodge feature 20 private tents, including one presidential canvas-topped pavilion and two interconnecting canopied suites, ideal for families, each with a private terrace overlooking the river.
Shared spaces will include a restaurant, lounge bar, spa, and a large outdoor terrace with fire pits that will play host to traditional Masai dance performances in the evening. The untamed landscape will offer guests the opportunity to observe the “Big Five” that Masai Mara is home to lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinoceros, and, elephants.

Between June and September, the reserve is also hosting the annual great wildebeest migration, when more than 10 million animals travel a distance of 1,800 miles from the Serengeti in neighboring Tanzania. “As a brand rooted in mindfulness, we cannot think of a more perfect retreat for the mind, body, and soul than the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya,” says Bruce Rohr, Vice President and Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge will offer guests a luxurious backdrop to make once-in-a-lifetime memories as they connect with nature and wildlife as never before. We are thrilled that the JW.

Marriott brand will be welcoming adventure travelers traveler, including families, to this breath-taking part of the world.”  Conservation of the land and its inhabitants will be at the heart of JW Marriott Masai Mara.

The safari lodge aims to employ up to 50 locals from the Masai community and will offer robust learning opportunities for guests looking to immersive themselves in the destination. “The signing of JW Masai Mara Lodge is a milestone in Marriott International’s growth in Africa as the company enters the luxury safari segment. This landmark project is in response to travelers, growing desire for experiential offerings that enable them to build a deeper connection with their chosen destination.

JW Marriott encourages guests to be mindful and present, which perfectly lends itself to meaningful safari holidays.” says Jerome Briet, Chief Development Officer, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Marriott International.

A nod to the captivating surroundings, guests can expect an authentic sense of place through artful
design and architecture. Sophisticated, interiors will be led by Kristina Zanic. The location and surrounding landscape will be reflected at every turn, creating harmony with the natural world and drawing inspiration from the elements: earth, wind, fire, and water. Warm touches of neutrals and natural materials will lend to a warm ambiance, while an earth tone color palette promises to sit in harmony with the landscape, inviting guests to connect with nature and focus on their wellbeing.

During their stay, guests will enjoy the immersive, holistic approach to wellness while being mindful of
the environment and its impact on the land. “We’re delighted to collaborate with Marriott International to debut this stunning luxury lodge and their first Safari offering in the Masai Mara,” says Mr. Shivan Patel of Baraka Lodges LTD.

Marriott International currently operates more than 120 properties in Africa across its portfolio. JW
Marriott Masai Mara Lodge will join Marriott Bonvoy’s growing portfolio of 8,000 hotels globally.

About JW Marriott 

JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful
properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of
Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, prioritized his well-being so that he could
take better care of others.

Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest.

Today there are more than 100 JW Marriott hotels in more than 35 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and, feed the soul.

Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott is proud to participate in
Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members
an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments , and
unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more
information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a
portfolio of approximately 8,000 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 139 countries and
territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around
the world.

The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program. For more information, please visit our website at www.marriott.com, and for the latest company news,  visit www.marriottnewscenter.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl
on Twitter and Instagram.

Kigali, March 25, 2022 – The “Africa’s Business Heroes” (ABH) prize competition, one of the Jack Ma
Foundation’s flagship philanthropic programs spotlighting and celebrating Africa’s entrepreneurial
talent has opened applications for its fourth annual edition.

Entrepreneurs from all 54 African countries, across every sector, age group, and gender are now able to submit their applications, in either French or English, for a chance to become one of the Top 10 finalists. The official slogan of the competition, “It’s African Time”, is a bold call to action to all talented African entrepreneurs who are challenging stereotypes associated with & quot; African time & quot; -creating local impact and building a better, more inclusive future through their businesses. At the grand finale later this year, 10 finalists will take the stage to present their businesses to a panel of business legends to win a share of the US$1.5 million grant.

The journey to the Finale will also include access to a community of international leaders and innovators, industry experts, investors, and accelerators, as well multidisciplinary boot camps and training sessions to help the finalists take their businesses to the next level.

Today also marks the television premiere of the 3-episode series for the ABH 2021 competition. The show follows the journeys of the top 10 finalists from 2021 as they geared up for the grand finale. The show aims to provide a masterclass in entrepreneurship, as audiences can see first-hand how the top entrepreneurs from across Africa refined their final pitches and faced tough questions from legendary business figures. It was filmed in 12 African countries and will premiere on CNBC Africa on March 25. It will also be broadcast across Africa on StarTimes, DSTV, VoxAfrica, and several African local TV stations, including Rwanda Television.

The show will also air on ABH’s official YouTube channel later this year. “I was beyond proud to have been named the winner of the 2021 ABH competition. I hope that win inspires many people across Africa to feel that they can make a difference and be impactful. I learned so much throughout the competition and will take those learnings to continue growing PraxiLabs. We will remain focused and determined to change how Africa learns and teaches science, one virtual lab at a time,” Khadija Mohamed Elbedweihy, Founder, PraxiLabs. “Entrepreneurship in Africa is experiencing a strong upward trajectory and it is so encouraging to see. But there are still so many entrepreneurs whose inspiring stories and impactful businesses need
a spotlight, and who could benefit from additional support.

Africa’s Business Heroes prize competition is encouraging extraordinarily talented entrepreneurs from all 54 African countries, across every single sector, age group, and gender to apply in either English or French for a chance to win their share of a $1.5 million grant, access to training, mentorship, and more. We want to enable entrepreneurs that are not only building successful businesses but who are also running mission-driven mission-driven organizations that generate growth for their local communities across Africa. If this sounds like you, join Africa’s Business Heroes prize competition today. It’s African Time,” said Zahra Baitie, Head of Partnerships & Programs, ABH.

ABH is part of the Jack Ma Foundation’s long-term commitment to help support and foster an inclusive and strong African entrepreneurial ecosystem. Over 10 years, ABH will recognize 100 African entrepreneurs.

This year, ABH has revamped its brand identity to better reflect its ethos. The new logo focuses on the concept of the & quote. Hero & quot; as they are the ones who drive changes on the continent.

The interconnected lines capture a sense of connectedness, which reflects the goal of creating a community of African entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, trainers, and business service providers. The logo also aims to evoke a sense of dynamism, which reflects the inherent nature of true entrepreneurship and ABH& drive for innovation.

Lastly, the logo features African geometric designs, which speaks to ABH’s pan-African focus and goal of enabling the African entrepreneur ecosystem. ABH has also upgraded the application system by adding in-process tutorials such as former heroes’ sample videos and tips, streamlining the applications process, and adding in fun, interactive elements such as Avatars among others.

Applications will be open online until 6th June 2022 with semi-finalists announced in October and the top ten finalists for 2022 unveiled in November. To apply and for more information about ABH, please visit: https://africabusinessheroes.org/en/register and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.

ABH marked the official opening of applications with launch events on March 24 both online and in five locations across Africa – Kigali, Rwanda; Kinshasa, the Democratic  Republic of the Congo; Cairo, Egypt, Johannesburg, South Africa; and Lagos, Nigeria. More than 1,600 entrepreneurs from 63 countries and 21 industries registered to join the launch events.

Throughout the year, ABH will be partnering with a wide range of organizations to drive the call for
applications, support African entrepreneurs, spotlight their inspiring work. Partners include the African Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum, African Management Institute (AMI), Ashesi University, Briter Bridges, Moroccan Center for Innovation and Social Entrepreneurship (MCISE), The Room-an initiative of African Leadership Group, RiseUp, VC4A, and more.

As part of an expanded suite of offerings to ABH Finalists, many of these partners will provide training programs aimed at supporting finalists to scale their businesses. For example, select finalists will have the opportunity to participate in AMI’s Management Development Program.

They will also be able to participate in an Investment Readiness Program designed and facilitated by VC4A, access “The Room” and talent sourcing benefits as well as attend key entrepreneurship events on the continent such as the South Africa Innovation Summit and the Rise Up Summit.

About Africa’s Business Heroes

The Africa Business Heroes prize competition is the flagship philanthropic initiative spearheaded by the Jack Ma Foundation aimed at supporting and inspiring the next generation of African entrepreneurs across all sectors, who are building a more sustainable and inclusive economy for the future of the continent.

Over ten years, ABH will recognize 100 African entrepreneurs and commit to allocating grant funding, training programs, and support for the development of an entrepreneurial ecosystem. Each year, the ABH prize competition and the show will feature ten finalists as they pitch their business to win a share of $1.5 million in grant money.

Jack Ma, Founder of Alibaba Group and the Jack Ma Foundation, created the prize after he made his first trip to Africa in 2017 and was inspired by the energy and entrepreneurial potential of the young people he met with.

Nairobi: March 21, 2022 – AGRA has begun accepting nominations for the 2022 Women Agripreneur of the Year Awards (WAYA), which recognizes female entrepreneurs excelling in different segments of the agricultural value chain.

To qualify, entrepreneurs need to have an innovative product or service in the agriculture value chain with evidence of impact on their communities and countries. Submissions are being received on the WAYA website until May 31 in three categories: young female Agripreneur; outstanding value-adding enterprise and female Ag tech innovator. Winners will be announced at the AGRF Summit 2022, slated for 5-7 Sept in Kigali, each receiving a cash prize of USD20,000. AGRA’s President, Dr. Agnes Kalibata noted that the WAYA program is part of the VALUE4HER initiative tan that aims to address constraints faced by women in accessing productive resources and business opportunities.

“Women provide up to 50% of the agricultural labor force, contribute up to 70% of food production, and
account for 80% of food processors. They represent a crucial resource in agriculture and the rural economy through their roles as farmers, laborers, and entrepreneurs. However, they are faced with constraints limiting their full participation. AGRA’s interventions through the VALUE4HER initiatives are strengthening women’s agribusiness enterprises and increasing voice and urgency across Africa,” Dr. Kalibata added.

The VALUE4HER program is focused on increasing the performance of women agripreneurs by facilitating access to markets and trade, finance, and investments, as well as opportunities for tailored online and offline matchmaking activities, learning, networking, and global advocacy. The 2021 WAYA inaugural award celebrated Dr. Hajia Salamatu the Founder and Executive Director of WOFAN in Nigeria, Beatrice Nkatha Mmunyi the Founder and MD of Sorghum Pioneer Agencies in Kenya, and Linda Kudakwashe Manyeza the Founding Director of Food Masters South Africa.

Building on lessons from engaging with women as Agripreneur across the continent, AGRA seeks to encourage countries to invest strategically in women’s development, strengthening the private sector enabling environment, and building evidence-based participatory processes that will advance inclusive and sustainable agriculture-led growth, resilience, and nutrition. The VALUE4HER initiative presents an opportunity to deliver inclusive economic growth, jobs, and health to the African continent by supporting women Agripreneur across the continent.

About AGRA

Established in 2006, AGRA is an African-led and Africa-based institution that puts smallholder
farmers at the center of the continent’s growing economy by transforming agriculture from a solitary
struggle to survive into farming as a business that thrives. Together with our partners, we catalyze
and sustain an inclusive agricultural transformation to increase incomes and improve food security
in 11 countries. The AGRA #VALUE4HER Women Agripreneur of the Year Awards (WAYA) recognizes women Agripreneur who have excelled in different segments of the agricultural value chain and shown
remarkable innovation in their businesses. The award goes to women who have achieved
significant recognition and business success in the field of agriculture and agribusiness with a great
impact on food security, climate resilience, women, and youth empowerment.

Kenya’s leading retailer Naivas supermarket is set to open the doors of its 82^nd outlet and newest store at Katani along Mombasa Road.

The new outlet a Foodmarket covering 34,299 square feet is the 3^rd of its format along Mombasa Road, with the other two being Naivas Foodmarket Capital center and the just-opened Naivas Foodmarket Imara. It is however the 9^th outlet in the larger Mombasa Road Region.

The store focuses on everyday fresh produce that guarantees value for money and it is also stocked with a wide variety of products to choose from. The retailer promises a world-class shopping experience crowned by Kenyan hospitality.

Commenting on the development, chief commercial officer Willy Kimani stated that this new development serves as a way of providing greater convenience to the populous Katani area and relieving the long queues experienced at other Naivas outlets.

“This new store is a testament to that, the people asked for a convenient and through research, we proved its viability and delivered a store that we are sure will meet needs that even they did not know needed meeting. As our Mantra has always been, we exist to make other people’s lives better and being a homegrown brand, we will remain focused on the

Kenyan consumer” remarked Willy Kimani, Naivas Chief Commercial Officer. The next stores lined up for opening include Kiambu mall, Naivasha, and Meru

Nairobi, Kenya, 9th March 2022
The Kenya Healthcare Foundation to host an inaugural event to celebrate and recognize the health sector
professionals who have had an outstanding contribution to the industry.

The Kenya Healthcare Federation will host an inaugural event that marks the start of annual celebrations and recognition of Healthcare Professionals who have had an outstanding contribution to, and social impact, in the Sector over the years.

The heroes celebration event will bring together various players including the Kenya Association of Pharmaceutical Industry (KAPI) and the Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya (PSK). For the inaugural celebrations, the Kenya Healthcare Foundation in partnership with Surgipharm and Imperial Logistics (Healthcare Market Access business) will celebrate and honor Dr. Vijai Maini, the outgoing Managing
Director of Surgipharm Ltd.

Dr. Vijai, who is also one of the founding members of KAPI, has been instrumental in the growth of the Pharmaceutical industry both through his company Surgipharm and through his leadership and mentorship contributions at KAPI.

Surgipharm Ltd through its branches in Nairobi and Mombasa is one of the largest and most efficient pharmaceutical and healthcare logistics firms in Kenya, accounting for 30% of the market share.

The Cabinet Secretary of Health, Hon. CS Mutahi Kagwe, KHF Chairman, Dr. Kanyenje Gakombe, and Imperial Logistics Executive Vice President ( Market Access)- David Pritchard.

The national government has embarked on developing a national maritime security strategy to address maritime security challenges to bolster efforts to harness the Sh500 billion worth blue economy.

The strategy intended to midwife the national maritime security committee and the national maritime security risk register is a high-level strategic policy framework and shared vision for securing a country’s maritime domain, including its ports and territorial waters.

State Department for East African Community Principal Secretary, Dr Kevit Desai stated that the national maritime security strategy has been developed for effective coordination and management of risks and threats in the maritime sector.

“Maritime security is necessary to create a conducive environment at sea that supports the vision 2030 and the 3^rd Medium Term plan which is driven by the Big 4 agenda,” added Desai.

He was speaking Monday in Mombasa when he officially opened a two day National Maritime Security Strategy Workshop at Sarova Whitesands Beach hotel.

He revealed that the blue economy, as 8^th sector of the economic pillar of vision 2030, currently contributes a paltry Sh178.8 billion to the country’s Gross Domestic Product.

He said that the country is well poised to play a key role in enhancing the security of navigation in the Western Indian Ocean with its strategic location along the major shipping trading route.

Desai further noted that there is a need to protect the maritime space from external and internal threats to safety of life at sea, property and free movement of goods through maritime transport which account for 90 per cent of the trade in the region.

He said that can be achieved through robust establishment of a comprehensive maritime security governance framework and close collaboration and coordination among agencies mandated to secure the territorial waters.

“Proper governance of maritime space within the Kenyan waters will only work through formulation and establishment of a collaborative framework and joint, comprehensive and coordinated policies and enforcement actions that will ensure protection of critical infrastructure, services, economic activities and resources at sea,” added Desai.

He said the vast resources within the blue economy has exposed it to various crimes and threats including terrorism, weapons proliferation, transnational crime, piracy, terrorism, wildlife, drug trafficking, unregulated and unreported fishing.

“The advancement and protection of Kenya’s national interests through joint and active management of risks and opportunities in and from the maritime domain is necessary in order to strengthen and extend Kenya’s prosperity, security and resilience,” added Desai.

The PS further revealed that the country has implemented several regional and international protocols governing maritime security to support sustainable development of the blue economy including the International Ship and Port Facility (ISPS) code and Djibouti Code of conduct.

He added that the government is particular enhancing maritime security and safety for efficient and affordable global trade, connectivity to enable business to thrive unhindered and unfettered, combat illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing, take collective measures to enhance security and safety of its territorial waters and implement the Eastern and Southern Indian Ocean regional accord on operation, coordination and information exchange.

The PS commended the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for technical guidance in helping the government towards establishing a comprehensive, holistic and inclusive maritime security governance framework.

IMO’s Djibouti Code of conduct Project Management, Kiruja Micheni hailed the national government for entrenching the National Maritime Security Committee (NSMC) into law and jumpstarting the establishment of the National Maritime Security Strategy.

“We are cognizant that Kenya is steadily developing strides to become a strong maritime nation and must be commended for the various steps it has taken in building her capacity in this multi-faceted sector,” Micheni added.

He added that the maritime security and blue economy have moved a notch higher with the launch of a sustainable blue economy, establishment of Kenya Coast Guard Service (KFS), development of policies, regulations and laws and collaboration with other development partners.

Micheni assured that IMO will continue to support the national government with technical support to develop effective national maritime security for the benefit of the entire region to promote a safe, secure, environmentally sound, efficient, and sustainable shipping sector.

The Equity Group has announced its strategic ‘Africa Recovery and Resilience Plan’, articulated in a three-part document, which is aimed at achieving the social and economic transformation of Africa.

Speaking at the event held today at the Sarova Stanley Hotel in Nairobi, Equity Group Holdings Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr.

James Mwangi disclosed that the strategy comprises five strategic pillars that will be operationalized through a collaborative and ecosystem-centricecocentric eco-system-centric approach.

“The five pillars for the Strategic Plan are Food and Agriculture, Manufacturing and Logistics,

Trade and Investment, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), and Social and Environmental Transformation which will promote socio-economic prosperity for Africa,” Mwangi explained.

The CEO stated that the objectives of the plan are the inclusivity of 100 million households and banking of the entire value chain.

Additionally, according to Mwangi, the employment of 50 million people, where 25 million direct jobs will be created as a business grows while 25 million indirect jobs will be created as value chains expand and deepen, will also form part of the set-out objectives.

He added that Equity Group is launching a plan for like-minded people where they hope to make a difference to see Africa recover and thrive from what was lost during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“We gave a chance to 45 percent of our customers to make them feed for purpose after Covid-19 which we have noted a good survival rate,” said Mwangi.

Mwangi also noted that they have transformed their social contract with the society, adding that they are currently advancing from the benefits of confidence of the society in their enterprise.

At the same time, Equity Group Director of Strategic Partnership, Collaboration, and Investor Relations, Brent Malahay, elaborated on corporate philosophy in what has become the social and economic plan of Equity Group Holdings.

“It is a plan and seed that speaks to bringing together both social and economic considerations in driving financial inclusion across businesses,” said Malahay.

He mentioned that the vision of the Recovery and Resilience Plan is around social and economic transformation.

“As Equity Group, you cannot have sustainable economic transformation without having the social consideration, that is why the seed we planted was aimed to industrialize Africa,” he said.

Meanwhile, Equity Group Director of Communication, Polycarp Igathe, said that the plan will transform the lives and livelihood of the community by creating opportunities for young people.

He appealed to Equity Group to present liquidity to business people whenever they need it, adding that a partnership with local institutions through sharing data will promote innovation.

“The mandate of Equity Group is to work with their clients in delivering various services to all consumers,” Igathe stated.