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  • Brussels air returns to Kenya after a nine-year absence

    Brussels air returns to Kenya after a nine-year absence

    (L-R) Dorothea von Boxberg, CEO, Brussels Airlines and KTB Board Member David Tanki during the reception of Brussels Air. Looking on is KAA Chairman, Hon. Caleb Kositanyi.
    (L-R) Dorothea von Boxberg, CEO, of Brussels Airlines, and KTB Board Member David Tanki during the reception of Brussels Air. Looking on is KAA Chairman, Hon. Caleb Kositanyi.

    Brussels Airlines, Belgium’s flag carrier and the largest airline in Belgium, has resumed flights into Nairobi, Kenya, after a nine-year hiatus.

    The airline, a member of the Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance, touched down at the Kenyatta International Airport on Monday night with 288 travelers, enhancing connectivity between Kenya and Belgium. This marked the first time the airline landed in Kenya after having served the Nairobi route between 2002 and 2015.

    Speaking during the reception of the airline, David Tanki, who represented the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) Board of Directors, said that the resumption of flights to Nairobi by Air Brussels was a positive development for tourism as Kenya aims to become a year-round destination known for its diverse and sustainable tourism offerings. He added that the resumption shows that Belgian and European travelers still have an appetite for Kenya as a destination.

    “The year-round service we shall now receive from Airlines Brussels is a significant development for the destination that will boost arrivals throughout all the seasons. This comes as we continue to see interest from other airlines from Europe and other continents in Kenya. We are pleased to see this airline come back to Kenya after a long absence, and we hope that it will inspire more people to be inspired by the beauty of magical Kenya,” said Tanki.

    Mr. Tanki also exuded optimism about the future growth of the sector, noting that travelers from the larger European continent will play a big role in the full turn-around of the sector.

    “Europe is a key source market for Kenya’s tourism, ranking second with a 29% market share and contributing 572,352 arrivals last year. In 2023, the number of arrivals from Belgium reached 12,960, up from 9,981 in 2022, indicating a growing recognition of Kenya as a desirable destination within Belgian tourism. The entry of Brussels Airlines is particularly timely, as we expect to increase Belgian arrivals into Kenya and further strengthen our numbers,” he said.

    The resumption of Air Brussels flights to Nairobi will now bring the number of airlines’ destinations in Sub-Saharan Africa to 18. Kenya is the second largest market by frequency, with 5 weekly flights by Lufthansa, 6 flights by Euro Wings discovering the coast, and now 6 flights into Nairobi by Air Brussels. The service will boost passenger transfers for the diverse Belgian travel sector, which includes charter services, business travel and MICE specialists, online travel agencies, and retail travel agents.

    Brussels Airlines Chief Executive Officer Dorothea von Boxberg says, “We see a very high interest in our home market, Belgium, to explore Kenya. Our first flights to Nairobi are full. Nairobi is a vibrant city and the perfect gateway for an unforgettable trip to Kenya. The other way around we offer connections to Europe and beyond via Brussels to let Kenyans explore the world, study, or grow their businesses.”. She said.

    Ms. Von Boxberg added that the airline was working on ways to have more flights going based on the increased demand for business and leisure travel, among others, as well as a positive market reaction.

    According to data from Statbel, the third quarter of 2023 saw 6.92 million trips by Belgians abroad, marking an increase of 3.8%, compared to the same period in 2022. However, international travel numbers have yet to reach the peak of 2019, when 7.15 million trips were recorded during the summer. The preference for overseas travel remains high, with 64% of Belgians likely to travel abroad for leisure in the next 12 months. Cost and affordability are crucial factors for 34% of Belgians when planning international trips.

    The travel preferences of Belgian travelers include eco-friendly travel experiences, priority for sustainable and responsible tourism practices, value for authenticity, environmental consciousness, and a sense of community engagement, among others.

  • Kenya Sees Drop in Tobacco Use, But New Challenges Emerge

    By OMBOKI MONAYO

    As Kenyans weigh in on the 2024/25 Finance Bill, the National Taxpayers Association (NTA) is urging the government to raise taxes on tobacco products. The advocacy group argues that this will not only generate additional revenue but also discourage tobacco use, a major public health concern linked to thousands of deaths annually in Kenya.


    Consumption of cigarettes and related health complications including lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease and hypertension has been found to kill at least an average of 9,000 Kenyans every year.


    According to John Thomi of the NTA, higher taxes protect the health pf Kenyans by making the products more expensive.
    ‘When tax is increased, the affordability of tobacco products decreases and even consumer choices are constrained because tobacco is a luxury or recreational product,” says Mr Thomi.


    Research carried out in Europe shows that a 10% increase in cigarette prices can lead to a 4-6% decrease in demand, particularly among low- and middle-income smokers. Data from Kenya itself shows a promising decline in tobacco use from 12% in 2014 to 9% in 2022, which the NTA partly attributes to previous tax hikes.


    The current tax structure sees filtered cigarettes taxed at Kes4,067 per 1,000 cigarettes (mille), with the NTA proposing an increase to Kes4,100. Similarly, taxes on unfiltered cigarettes would rise from Kes2,926 to Kes4,100 per mille. Mr Thomi emphasizes that higher taxes make tobacco products less affordable, effectively reducing consumer choice for these “luxury or recreational” goods.


    John Muchangi, a veteran health and science journalist, highlights the addictive nature of tobacco products, suggesting that pricing them out of reach remains the most effective way to control consumption. While supporting the increase in taxation, he dismisses arguments from the tobacco industry that high taxes will only encourage smuggling, stating that tackling smuggling is a separate enforcement issue.


    “Addiction transforms tobacco into a must-have product. Pricing it out of reach remains the most effective way to reduce and control its consumption,” he says. “Eliminating the flow of illicit tobacco products into the country is a law enforcement challenge that the government should squarely tackle,” adds the editor.


    Kenya’s journey towards tobacco control has not been smooth. The country ratified the World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) in 2005, but the implementation of tobacco control regulations faced legal battles, eventually being enacted in 2014. These regulations require graphic health warnings on packaging, designated smoking areas, and public health campaigns to raise awareness of the dangers of smoking.


    The FCTC explicitly prohibits tobacco industry involvement in tobacco control policymaking. However, there have been instances where the industry has lobbied and influenced key decision-makers, potentially weakening these policies. This was evident in 2004 when the tobacco industry attempted to dilute a proposed Tobacco Control Bill by renaming it and seeking influence on the tobacco control committee. Thankfully, public pressure exposed these efforts, leading to the passage of a comprehensive Tobacco Control Act in 2007.


    The NTA is concerned that the government’s proposed tax increases may not be enough. They argue that the industry can absorb small price hikes as overhead costs or by transferring them to other products. It proposes annual tax hikes of 10-15% to account for population growth and prevent the industry from comfortably mitigating the impact of the increases.


    A new challenge has emerged in the form of non-combustible tobacco products like vapes and flavored pouches, targeted towards young people. Speaking during a May 28, 2024 press briefing, Ms Mary Muthoni, who is the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Health, acknowledged this growing concern and revealed that plans were underway to raise awareness about the dangers of these products alongside traditional cigarettes during World No Tobacco Day.


    “The rise of attractively packaged novel nicotine products like vapes and flavored pouches is attracting young people despite lacking evidence of being harmless alternatives. The Ministry of Health plans to use World No Tobacco Day to raise awareness of these dangers alongside traditional cigarettes,” said Ms Muthoni..

    NTA however feels that more can be done, beyond the glitzy and high-powered public service announcement on tobacco’s threat to human health. It is criticizing the “extremely low taxes” on these new products, with liquid nicotine taxed at a mere Kes70 per mille compared to the price of Kes1,500 per vape pen refill. They propose raising taxes on these products to Kes5-10 per pouch and including them in the new eco tax to account for their environmental impact.


    Mr Thomi concludes by emphasizing the urgency of action. He is warning that these “new generation products” can be a gateway to even more dangerous substances and urges swift measures to protect young Kenyans from addiction.
    “The success of our combined efforts as health advocates and public health experts to reduce tobacco use hinges on a multi-pronged approach that combines effective taxation with public health awareness campaigns to create a generation free from the dangers of tobacco use,” he asserts.

  • 22 Year-Old Fridah Ndinda wins Gold Award in the concluded Tujiamini Initiative Eastern Region.

    22 Year-Old Fridah Ndinda wins Gold Award in the concluded Tujiamini Initiative Eastern Region.

    Fridah Ndinda, a young female athlete currently scaling new heights in her budding running career is the Gold Winner in the ongoing Tujiamini Initiative, powered by SportPesa.

    Ndinda, the first female to win the Tujiamini Gold Award was unveiled in Machakos County and walks away with a Ksh 500,000 cash prize alongside other benefits such as training kits and mentorship in recognition and support of her talent towards becoming a top-flight athlete.

    Ndinda made headlines in international sports as the first Kenyan female to come second in the 10km Gqeberha marathon in South Africa in 2023. With ambitions to take the podium again in key races later in the year including the 10KM Nairobi City (Xpressway) Marathon, slated for July 7 th 2024, Ndinda already has her eyes set on participation in the Diamond League next year, intent on sealing a slot in the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.

    Coming from a humble background, Ndinda was educated through well-wishers, a situation that she says is her biggest motivation. Her aim is to use sports as a stepping stone to uplift her family’s fortunes given the many challenges she has had to overcome in her life and athletics journey.

    However since being introduced to her current coach and mentor, William Korir, Ndinda has excelled against odds. Despite struggling with insufficient funding, lack of quality training gear, access to a gym or rubber tracks for speed work, she has triumphed in the races she has participated in, an indication of her determination to grow and rake in the medals.

    “Within the first four months of my training in the year 2022, I qualified for the National 5,000M Olympic trials where I finished eighth. A week later, I ran in the 10KM category in the Nairobi City Marathon in 2022 coming in third place. In July, I also took third place in the Durban 10KM road race and emerged ninth in the Single loop half marathon in October”, said Ndinda.

    Speaking at the event, SportPesa Representative Deborah Chepkirui, said the Tujiamini Initiative was particularly designed for young sportswomen and men in the grassroots with the intention to support and shine a light on promising but yet unknown careers such as Ndinda’s.

    “A lot of people at the grassroots are struggling because they lack the facilities to get to the top tier levels in their speciality areas. Tujiamini aims to change that by according them the necessary support to advance their sporting dreams,”she said.

    Ndinda’s coach, William Korir, expressed gratitude for the Tujiamini Initiative’s support saying it will go a long way in preparing Ndinda in her competitive races for the rest of the year where she aims to improve her best time and global ranking.

    Storm Trentham, the Director, DBA Africa, a sports management agency that has partnered with SportPesa in the Tujiamini Initiative noted that the programme aims to reach every young talent in the grassroots across the country intent on identifying and empowering the next crop of Kenya’s sporting stars.

    “In order to build talents to elite levels, we need to have academies and sporting programmes at the grassroots and that is where Tujiamini comes in. The initiative aims to achieve a big impact whether on an individual basis or within the local community by keeping individuals engaged in self development through their talents.” said

    Trentham who encouraged women to apply and nominate each other for the Tujiamini Initiative that now moves to the North Rift region.

  • Miano Highlights Strategies to Boost Local Production and Economic Growth under Buy Kenya Build Kenya Initiative

    According to Trade, Investment, and Industry Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano, the primary goals of Buy Kenya Build Kenya are to encourage the use of locally produced goods and services, generate jobs, and lessen dependency on imports.

    Miano said her ministry has therefore fast-tracked activities to ensure the initiative’s success, with these activities anchored on the already identified areas of the legal and regulatory framework to guide public procurement.

    The Cabinet Secretary said her ministry has also created an enabling business environment, market access for locally produced goods and services, advocacy, and the creation of an institutional framework that ensures sustainability.

    At least 40% of the Public Procurement Budget should be set aside for locally produced goods and services, according to the BK BK strategy, the Cabinet Secretary stated during her appearance before the Senate Trade Committee in the Parliament building.

    “The disciplined forces have been acquiring various leather and textile products from local manufacturers to achieve this goal. For example, during the January–June 2023 period, the disciplined forces acquired leather and textile products valued at roughly Sh. 1.1 billion,” stated Miano.

    According to the Cabinet Secretary, the Ministry has established a strong quality and regulatory framework through the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) that guarantees locally produced goods meet the established standards.

    According to Miano, the Industrial Property Act and the Trade Marks Act are being implemented and enforced by the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI) to protect and promote indigenous innovations, thereby augmenting the production of goods manufactured in Kenya.

    According to her, MSMIs can add value to locally made products by using common manufacturing facilities (CMF) provided by the Ministry through Kenya Industrial Research Development. With the help of CMFs, MSMIs can produce goods that are competitive in the local market.

    “The Ministry is continuously creating awareness about the BKBK initiative through media campaigns and engagement, e.g., conferences, trade fairs,” Miano stated. “The Ministry is enhancing the skills of local industrial entrepreneurs by implementing a variety of value-added capacity building programs.” The ministry is working with various stakeholders to implement these programs.

    The Cabinet Secretary told the committee that the leather sector is a priority value chain under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) with a potential of Sh 130 billion in revenue and 100,000 jobs.

    The government has adopted the value-chain approach for the revitalization of the leather sector, which aims to unlock opportunities by creating jobs and generating income. Miano stated that some of the major challenges facing the sector include low hide and skin recovery, low-quality hides & skins, and inadequate skills.

    According to the Cabinet Secretary, the current strategies being carried out with assistance from development partners and the private sector highlight the sector’s critical role in economic development, especially in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs).

    Miano said the Ministry is supporting the revitalization of the sector by promoting value-added initiatives in the leather value chain, With the support of the International Labour Organization, the Ministry has developed the Leather Sector Revitalization Concept Note.

    “The Concept Note outlines a comprehensive work plan and activities whose implementation is under discussion, this includes the establishment of Regional Common Manufacturing Facilities (CMFs) similar to Kariokor CMF to improve the productivity and competitiveness of MSMIs in the leather and leather products value chain. The Ministry is working with ILO to help map out potential leather clusters,” said Miano,

    She said the Ministry, in collaboration with the Kenya Bureau of Standards, has revised some of Kenya’s Leather Testing Standards and adopted the Applicable International Standards These Standards aim at addressing current market, regulatory, and scientific and technological development needs.

    The Cabinet Secretary said the Ministry, through the Numerical Machining Complex (NMC), has developed a prototype knife and de-hider to address the high cost of flying knives and de-hiders, which are currently being imported.

    Miano said that in the financial year 2023/2024, the ministry, through the EPZA, was allocated Sh 350 million for the development of Leather Industrial Park-Kenanie and Sh 50 million for the Leather Value Chain Promotion Programme for the training of leather value chain stakeholders.

    “The proposed establishment of 450 feedlot facilities in ASAL counties will further enhance the recovery and quality of hides and skins. A multi-sectoral technical feedlot committee coordinated by the Head of Public Service (HOPS) has tasked the State Department for Industry with the role of identifying value-added initiatives,” said Miano.

    According to the Cabinet Secretary, the Ministry is working with Counties and Development Partners to construct County Aggregation and Industrial Parks (CAIPs) across the country. The Parks function as centers for the storage and value-adding of agricultural products.

    Agro-processing units, value-adding units, and warehouses are some of these facilities. To improve the processing of food and cash crops such as tea, coffee, sugarcane, nuts, cereals, vegetables, fruits, dairy, meat, honey, and fish, the Ministry will work with TVETs, KIRDI, county governments, and other important stakeholders.

  • Six entrepreneurs from West, East and Central Africa to receive seed funding to advance food security across the continent

    The Pamoja Founders Project, a collaborative regional leadership development program by IREX, the PepsiCo Foundation, PepsiCo and D-Prize, has revealed 12 exceptional young entrepreneurs leading ventures that strengthen sustainable food systems across six African nations: Nigeria, Ethiopia, Mozambique, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

    (more…)

  • KWAL UPGRADES HUNTER’S CHOICE BOTTLE PACKAGING

    During the launch

    Whisky consumers will now enjoy Hunter’s Choice in a new upgraded bottle designed to give drinkers a unique experience. This is after the Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL) unveiled a new packaging.

    Hunter’s Choice, a whisky brand by KWAL will now be sold in a new-look bottle that has been meticulously designed to include a new closure that will guarantee the product’s safety. “The new upgraded bottle has three key features: a new closure, a vibrant and modern label, and a new brand proposition. This new closure is aimed at securing the brand as a leader in the local whisky category,” said Mr Jonas Geeraerts, KWAL Commercial Director during the launch.

    The taste and pricing of Hunter’s Choice have not changed. The rebrand is for our consumers to enjoy a fine whisky in a nice new bottle, at an affordable price. The last time we did a bottle upgrade was in April 2018, and we have now improved it after feedback from our consumers
    “The taste and pricing of Hunter’s Choice have not changed. The rebrand is for our consumers to enjoy a fine whisky in a nice new bottle, at an affordable price. The last time we did a bottle upgrade was in April 2018, and we have now improved it after feedback from our consumers,” added Geeraerts.

    Hunter’s Choice also seeks to engage young Kenyan males looking for meaning and purpose in life and experiences that reflect their journey into manhood. “The bottle upgrade is aimed at appealing to male consumers aged between 20 and 35. Our insights revealed that Hunter’s Choice fits seamlessly into their lifestyles and provides diversity,” said Dr. Senorine Wasike, KWAL Head of Marketing.

    As part of taking the brand to consumers, KWAL has rolled out an Explore Boldly on-ground activation campaign in Nairobi, Kisumu, Eldoret and Nakuru over the next three (3) months. “We know our target audience is young and ambitious, hopes for better and works towards it. He’s hungry for success, respect and admiration of his peers. If he makes it that will truly set him apart. Hunter’s Choice whisky therefore seeks to honour these individual achievements. Within the golden liquid lies the golden moments of everyone’s successful endeavours” added Dr. Wasike.

     

  • Naivas and Visa Announce Strategic Partnership for Loyalty Cards

    Naivas and Visa Announce Strategic Partnership for Loyalty Cards

    Visa, a global leader in digital payments, and Kenya’s largest retailer Naivas Supermarket have joined forces to unveil a strategic partnership aimed at developing a co-branded loyalty card.

    The groundbreaking collaboration is set to revolutionize the shopping experience for Naivas customers by offering enhanced benefits and rewards.

    The forthcoming co-branded loyalty card, a pioneering initiative in Kenya’s retail sector, will amalgamate the convenience and security of Visa’s digital payment solutions with the perks of Naivas’ esteemed customer loyalty program.

    Cardholders will accrue loyalty points for every purchase made at Naivas and other participating partners, which can subsequently be redeemed for future discounts and exclusive offers.

    Andreas Von Paleske, Naivas Chief of Strategy, expressed his enthusiasm for the new initiative.

    “The loyalty program is our expression of gratitude to our valued customers. Our objective is to deliver an affordable, world-class shopping experience, and we continuously seek avenues to enhance our customer offerings.”

    He added, “This partnership presents an exciting opportunity to achieve that goal, allowing customers to utilize the card not only locally but also internationally. It doesn’t get more global than this.”

    To earning and redeeming points, cardholders will benefit from several advantages, including installment payments, enabling them to buy now and pay later. The card will also facilitate contactless payments, providing a safer, faster, and more convenient payment method, in line with current global trends.

    As a Visa card, it will enjoy global acceptance at millions of locations worldwide, both online and offline, ensuring seamless transactions for cardholders. Furthermore, Visa’s state-of-the-art security technologies will guarantee secure transactions, offering customers peace of mind during their shopping experiences.

    Chad Pollock, Vice President and General Manager of Visa East Africa, expressed his excitement about the collaboration.

    “Our partnership with Naivas marks a significant milestone in our mission to enable seamless, secure digital payments for everyone, everywhere. We are delighted to introduce this unique offering to Kenyan consumers, providing all Naivas customers with access to a global, reliable, and secure digital payment option in the form of a Visa card.”

    Chad added that, “By enhancing access to digital payments, we are bridging the financial gap and paving the way for a more inclusive society. We look forward to the positive impact we can achieve together.”

    The eagerly anticipated co-branded loyalty card will be available at all Naivas Supermarkets nationwide in the coming weeks, promising to elevate the shopping experience for Naivas customers and set new standards of convenience and rewards in Kenya’s retail landscape.

  • Debate Over Muguuka and Miraa as Mombasa MP Zamzam Mohammed Leads Charge Against Substance Abuse and Calls for Stricter Regulations

    Debate Over Muguuka and Miraa as Mombasa MP Zamzam Mohammed Leads Charge Against Substance Abuse and Calls for Stricter Regulations

    There has been a recent heated debate on the Muguuka and Miraa plant by leaders from the coast and Mt Kenya region after Mombasa County hiked the tax of Muguuka and Miraa.

    Mombasa County MP Zamzam Mohammed has called out on Mombasa leadership and the whole County security team to do a massive crackdown on the region to apprehend users and sellers of drugs.

    Mombasa County Woman Representative, Hon. Zamzam Mohamed Chimba, has firmly reiterated her unwavering stance against the use of Muguuka and the unregulated consumption of Miraa in Mombasa County. She has pledged to tirelessly advocate for the residents of Mombasa, aiming to combat the proliferation of Muguuka and enforce stringent regulations on Miraa.

    While addressing members of the press in Parliament, Zamzam raised concern about the rising numbers of rehabilitation centers in Mombasa County and the large amounts of money being set aside to establish more rehabs.

    “Muguka chewing has become a serious issue in our community, contributing to increased rates of addiction, domestic violence, and poor health,” Hon. Zamzam asserted.

    She added, “We need to take decisive action as leaders and the county security team to protect our people, particularly the youth, from the devastating effects of this substance and let it be on record that Mombasa is not a rehabilitation center where the only booming business or investment one can think of is a rehab center.”

    According to the County MP, Muguuka, a leafy green plant commonly chewed for its stimulant effects, is widely used in Mombasa regions of Kenya. While it is legal and a source of income for many farmers, its consumption has been linked to various health and social problems, with the plant being grown widely in Embu, where the species is known as ‘Catha edulis’

    She has, however, urged the governor to stand firm and end the usage of muguuka completely in Mombasa, but she has also urged for regulations on Miraa usage in the county, as she recommends that regulations be put in place to help those affected by muguuka addiction.

    “We cannot simply ban Muguuka without offering alternatives, and we don’t have rehabilitation programs in Mombasa since the more we have rehab centers in Mombasa, the more we are advocating for the usage and abuse of drugs in educational campaigns and economic support for farmers who depend on Khat cultivation for their livelihoods,” Zamzam notes.

    The proposed ban has sparked a heated debate within the county, with some residents and local leaders supporting the County MP stance. In contrast, others argue that banning Muguuka would harm the local economy and infringe on cultural practices.

    “I understand the concerns of those who rely on Muguuka for their income. I’ll advise them to use that land for the growth of cash crops however, we must prioritize the health and well-being of our community. I am committed to working with all stakeholders to find sustainable solutions.” A section of leaders from the Embu and Meru regions say that the region fully depends on Muguuka and therefore calls for Mombasa County to reduce the amount being paid as tax to the county.

    In the meantime, the County MP has urged residents to engage in an open dialogue and consider the long-term benefits of a Khat-free county. The Mombasa County government is expected to hold public consultations on the proposed ban in the coming weeks.

    She has also called upon the governor to take a strong stand and work towards completely eradicating Muguuka usage in the county.

    “I am urging my governor, and this is not a fight of supremacy but changing the lives of our people for the future generation, and we shall at all times implement regulations and controls on Miraa consumption, right from the county to the national platform. This is my dire commitment to this cause, and I remain steadfast as I continue to champion the health and well-being of the community.”

  • Coca-Cola Unveils Nationwide Promotion Offering Over 2 million Kenyans a Chance to Win Cash

    During the launch

    CocaCola Company will be rewarding over two million winners with a total of Ksh.163 million up for grabs, the campaign promises to make a real difference for Kenyans across the country.

    Coca-Cola has launched a new national promotion dubbed “Kachingching na Coke”, which offers consumers the chance to win millions in cash prizes. With over two million winners and a whopping KSH 163 million up for grabs, this campaign promises to make a real difference for Kenyans across the country.

    “Kachingching na Coke” is part of Coca-Cola’s continued promise to bring exciting campaigns and promotions to Kenyan consumers. The 13-week campaign, kicking off May 20th, 2024, underscores this ambition by offering every Kenyan a chance to be a winner.

    “At Coca-Cola, we have consistently strived to create magical experiences for our consumers,” said Monique Katana, Coca-Cola Kenya Frontline Marketing Director. “From the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour, Coke Studio™ or Christmas, we have brought joy and happiness closer to Kenyans through our brands. This year, again we are bringing the Coca-Cola magic by rewarding over 2 million Kenyans with a record-breaking KSH 163 million in prizes,” she adds.

    The “Kachingching na Coke” promotion offers instant daily cash prizes ranging from KSH 50 to KSH 10,000 delivered straight to your mobile money wallet. Plus, there is a chance to win the life-changing weekly grand prize of KSH 1 million for 13 weeks.
    To participate, simply purchase any Coca-Cola beverage in a 200ml, 300ml, or 500ml returnable glass bottle. Look under the crown for a unique code, then SMS the code for free to 40111 and stand a chance to win. The participating promotion packs include the various brands, including Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, Krest, Stoney, and Schweppes.
    “For 138 years, Coca-Cola has lived by one purpose, to refresh the world and make a difference. In Kenya, we have shared this purpose with our consumers for over 75 years,” said Isabelle Kariuki-Rostom, Senior Marketing Director, Coca-Cola East, and Central Africa Franchise.

    “This campaign is our way of showing that we are here to support and uplift the Kenyan people. Whether it is taking a refreshing break during a busy day or catching up with friends over a cold Coca-Cola, our beverages are moments of refreshment, connection, and with this campaign the joy of being a winner.” she concludes.

    The nationwide “Kachingching na Coke” campaign is open to all Kenyans above the age of 18.

    The CocaCola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company’s purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes CocaCola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and AdeS. We’re constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.coca-colacompany.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.

  • Tujiamini Initiative Supports Environmental Cleanup of Ngong River After Flood Water Recedes

     

    In the wake of devastating floods that have wreaked havoc in low-lying communities around the country, the Tujiamini Initiative, powered by SportPesa, came out on Friday to support the rehabilitation and cleanup of the Ngong River in Nairobi’s Nyayo Highrise Ward.

    In partnership with Empowering the Community (ETCO), an environmental activist group, and other humanitarian agencies, Tujiamini mobilized residents and volunteers to help restore the river’s health along a one-kilometer stretch by clearing refuse and flotsam that came downstream with the floods. This was in addition to a tree planting exercise to mark National Tree Planting Day in memory of the lives lost due to flooding experienced in various parts of the country.

    ETCO, spearheaded by the founder, Collince Onyango, also a Nondies rugby player, raised concern regarding the challenges and other risks of environmental damage on account of flooding, such as river blockage due to floating debris going downstream, most of which gets deposited at various intersections, thus affecting communities along the river.

     

    “We have witnessed unprecedented flooding and backflow in people’s houses, heavily impacting families along the river. In this time of devastation characterized by the unfortunate loss of life and homes, schools, businesses, and general disruption of livelihoods, the environment might not feature highly on the priority list. Still, by kick-starting efforts to clean up the neighborhoods and reducing vectors for risks such as disease due to blockage of streams and such water bodies, we can quickly help restore the affected community's well-being, among other efforts in recovery," said Onyango.

    During the exercise, the Tujiamini Initiative, a grassroots sports and talent support endeavor, donated Kshs500,000 worth of essential foodstuffs and other consumables to support 300 families who were impacted by the floods along the river. There is a clear intersection between sports and environmental responsibility. Tujiamini is taking a proactive stance in addressing the urgent needs brought about by the ongoing heavy rains. Our commitment in this regard extends beyond sporting and talent-related activities, by supporting sustainable and positive community initiatives with the aim of
    improving living conditions for affected residents,” said Willis Ojwang, Communication and Advertising Manager, at SportPesa.

    The community members participated in a sensitization exercise by ETCO and Tujiamini emphasizing the importance of environmental responsibility towards making a collective impact, with plans of extending the exercise throughout the year to mitigate immediate and future risks posed by overflowing rivers and flooding scenarios.

    Also at the exercise were representatives from the local government, who underscored the importance of community-driven environmental stewardship.