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  • Sports Committee Urged to Increase Allowances for Team Kenya at Paris Olympics

    Sports Committee Urged to Increase Allowances for Team Kenya at Paris Olympics

    Hon. Dan Wanyama (Webuye West) and Committee Chairperson National Assembly Sports and Culture
    Hon. Dan Wanyama (Webuye West) and Committee Chairperson, National Assembly Sports and Culture

    The National Olympics Committee of Kenya (NOCK) has petitioned a House Committee to push for increased allowances for Team Kenya ahead of the Olympics to be held in Paris, France.

    Team Kenya is scheduled to take part in the Olympics that are slated for July 26th to August 11th this year.

    NOCK officials, led by their president, Dr. Paul Tergat, told the Sports and Culture Committee that the current allowances are too little and should be reviewed.

    Speaking when they appeared before the committee meeting chaired by Hon. Dan Wanyama (Webuye West), NOCK Secretary General Mr. Francis Mutuku said players were paid Kshs. 26,000 while officials received Kshs. 39,000.

    “We urge the Committee to consider pushing for the increment of training allowances for players who are currently paid Kshs. 1,000 per day,” said Mr. Mutuku.

    In his response, Hon. Wanyama, who concurred with NOCK, asked the organisation to prepare a proposal of the new allowance rates and submit it to the Committee for action.

    Regarding the status of preparedness ahead of the competition, Mr. Tergat said: “Proper systems have been put in place to ensure the successful preparation of Team Kenya that will fly our flag in Paris. This season, the team will prepare better than before,” he added.

    Mr. Mutuku said that NOCK had secured a training camp in Miramas, France, where the team will be expected to train before traveling to Paris.

    “We have partnered with Miramas City to host the team for free. We will benefit from technical support from French coaches. The camp will provide a good final kick-off for Team Kenya before departing for Paris,” he added.

    He noted that the team will arrive at the camp on July 1st and depart five days before the Olympic Games kick-off.

    Mr. Mutuku further told the committee that 10,600 athletes will represent the country during the Olympics.

    “Athletics is the country’s main menu at the Olympics, but we will have other teams like rugby’s Shujaa and women’s volleyball team Malaika Strikers, boxing, and tennis, among others,” he added.

    He added that NOCK has also partnered with Deloitte to provide risk advisory services.

    “Kenya’s reputation was dented following the Tokyo Olympics fiasco. We have brought in Deloitte to deal with the reputation risk,” he added.

    He added that Team Kenya’s kits were designed by a Kenyan, noting that the kits will be ready in three weeks.

    He added, “NOCK has made plans to assist players in securing visas and air tickets on time.”

    Tergat said NOCK’s focus was on the preparations of Team Kenya, and they have directed all available resources at their disposal to achieve this goal.

    “Performance is a reflection of preparation, and that is why we are doing everything to ensure Team Kenya is in good form and in shape to win more medals,” he added.

    The Committee expressed its satisfaction with the level of preparedness by NOCK for Team Kenya.

    “We are satisfied with the plans put in place to ensure the team prepares adequately. The Committee will provide the necessary support you need,” said Hon. Wanyama.

    The Committee also met sports, arts, and social development officials led by their CEO, Mr. Ibrahim Nuh, to assess their success stories and challenges.

  • 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…)

  • Reproductive Health Stakeholders Call for Measures to Combat the Triple Threat in Nairobi City County

    During the Reproductive Health Stakeholders Meeting at Radisson Blu Hotel

    Reproductive Health Stakeholders convened in Nairobi on Friday 24th May 2024 to discuss the triple threat in the County.

    The event brought together the Ministry of Health representatives, health sector leadership from Nairobi County, criminal justice actors, county leadership, Ministry of Interior and Coordination, Ministry of Education, health care providers, and civil society

    The overlapping challenge of new HIV infections, adolescent pregnancies, and sexual and gender-based violence among young people impede Kenya’s progress toward achieving the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.

    Sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) are fundamental components of the response to address the triple threat. They encompass a range of issues, including family planning, maternal
    health, access to safe abortion, and prevention of sexually transmitted infections.

    In Kenya, like many other countries, the legal, policy, and administrative landscape
    concerning SRHR is complex and rapidly evolving.

    The efforts are to promote a better understanding of the current situation in Kenya, foster collaboration, and stronger engagement, key stakeholders are invited including the Nairobi City County health department, the national Ministry of Health as coordinated by the Center for Reproductive Rights (CRR) and the Reproductive Health Network Kenya (RHNK).
    organizations, all of whom play pivotal roles in SRHR. Each organization represented
    will spoke its experience and lessons learned in combatting the triple threat.

    The Ministry of Health addressed health needs in the country and offered guidance to the counties, which will speak to the policy direction and support accorded to the counties to combat the triple threat.

  • 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.”

  • Big Plans for International Missing Children’s Day

    The Ministry of Labour, Social Protection, and Senior Citizen Affairs through Directorate of Children’s Services have led preparations towards International Missing Children’s Day (IMCD).

    Speaking during the International Missing Children’s Day Dr. Waruinge Muhindi from Directorate Services for Chidren added that the international Missing Children Day celebrated on May 25th advocates for child issues and Measures taken to address the problems they face.
    The Day also has a measure that ensures “Empowering Communities to SafeGuard Children and Young People From Going Missing.”

    Present during the occasion were various institutions like; Office of Director Public Prosecution, Medical Social work Students, Kenya Medical Training College and JKUAT who were the Host.

    Directorate of Children’s Services observed that,Trafficking of Children is an isssue that should be dealt with.

    “A child is a person who has not attained an age of 18 years. Children tend to go Missing due to various reasons including; family issues, Seperation of the parents, Kidnapped, poverty and a Child ends up being a victim of Child Labor, accidents and Natural Disasters like flood that displce people from homes, Some cultural Practices like female genital mutilation, mental illness, Peer pressure.” Said Athena Morgan from International Centre for missing and exploited children.

    Childrens who are missing undergo deterorieted health, and many other things. It is crucial to report any Child who is missing immediately a parent or guardian does not know where their child is.

     

    “This is how it works when we receive reports after Receiving the information on Missing Child, we record the report, start the investigation, go to people Nearby, search and use the information given by the community to search for the Child.
    For missing children and young adult One can Call/dial the DCI number 0800722203.” Said Lawrence Okoth Detective from DCI Unit for Anti-Human Trafficking and Child Protection Unit.

    When the Missing child is found experts on Children matters recommend therapy for the victims to heal properly from either mental or physical harm.

    In 1983, U.S. President Ronald Reagan proclaimed May 25th “National Missing Children’s Day.”

    The proclamation followed the 1979 disappearance of a six-year-old boy, Etan Patz, on his way to school in New York City. The case generated widespread indignation, and concern for missing children rose across the nation. Since the United States began remembering missing children in this way, other countries around the world have adopted similar commemorations.

    25 May is now widely known as Missing Children’s Day, with the forget-me-not flower as its emblem. In 2001, 25 May was first formally recognized as International Missing Children’s Day (IMCD), thanks to a joint effort on the part of the GMCN, Missing Children Europe and the European Commission.

    Since 2009, IMCD has received support by disseminating a unified global message. The movement continues to grow. Every year, more countries commemorate IMCD, acknowledging the need for a harmonized response to protect vulnerable children.

     

  • Ministry of interior strengthens capacity of county commissioners in implementing climate change interventions

    Ministry of interior strengthens capacity of county commissioners in implementing climate change interventions

    Ministry of Interior PS Dr. Raymond Omollo hands over seedlings to Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr. Abdi Hassan during the National Climate Change Security Response Programme County Commissioners’ training. The training empowered the county commissioners in monitoring and reporting mechanisms for climate change interventions within their respective counties. With them is Machakos County Commissioner Josephine Ouko.
    Ministry of Interior PS Dr. Raymond Omollo hands over seedlings to Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr. Abdi Hassan during the National Climate Change Security Response Programme County Commissioners’ training. The training empowered the county commissioners to monitor and report mechanisms for climate change interventions within their respective counties. With them is Machakos County Commissioner Josephine Ouko.

    The Ministry of Interior and National Administration has strengthened the capacity of the 47 county commissioners to spearhead tree-planting activities through training, an exercise jointly supported by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry.

    The training curriculum, co-created with the Kenya School of Government, will empower the county commissioners to monitor and report mechanisms for climate change interventions within their respective counties.

    “The impacts of climate change are unprecedented, with climate-induced extreme weather displacing over a quarter of a million people and affecting close to half a million people in the country. As such, providing strategic preparedness and a coordination mechanism to support the efforts of the Ministry of Environment in the nationwide implementation of climate change interventions is key,”  said Principal Secretary, of the State Department of Internal Security and National Administration, Dr. Raymond Omollo.

    “As a Ministry, through the National Climate Change Security Readiness Programme, we are committed to training county commissioners and over 15,000 National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs) on climate change to empower them in mobilizing and supporting climate change interventions, including the 15 billion tree campaign,” he said.

    The training is in line with the objective of the National Climate Change Security Readiness Programme, which is to build the capacity of all National Government Administrative Officers for effective participation, stakeholder engagement, and coordination in the government’s climate change programs.

    “It is important to foster an understanding of different ecosystems and actions to support climate-resilient development and cooperation over shared resources. H.E. President William Ruto has emphasized the vital role leadership and commitment play in the success and advancement of environmental conservation and climate action in Kenya,” said the Principal Secretary for Climate Change and Forestry in the Ministry of Environment, Hon. Gitonga Mugambi.

    Ministry of Interior PS Dr. Raymond Omollo and Ministry of Forestry representative Rose Akombo hand over seedlings to Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr. Abdi Hassan during the National Climate Change Security Response Programme training that empowered the county commissioners in monitoring and reporting mechanisms for climate change interventions within their respective counties. Joining them is Machakos County Commissioner Josephine Ouko
    Ministry of Interior PS Dr. Raymond Omollo and Ministry of Forestry representative Rose Akombo hand over seedlings to Rift Valley Regional Commissioner Dr. Abdi Hassan during the National Climate Change Security Response Programme training that empowered the county commissioners in monitoring and reporting mechanisms for climate change interventions within their respective counties. Joining them is Machakos County Commissioner Josephine Ouko

    “It is against this backdrop that we are collaborating with other ministries to ensure seamless coordination and oversight of the tree-planting campaign at the grassroots level, and we are confident that this collaboration with the Ministry of Interior will effectively advance these interventions,” he said.

    The renewed tree planting efforts reflect Kenya’s commitment to achieving the United Nations-recommended minimum of 10 percent forest cover per country, a target enshrined in national law.

  • 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.

  • CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW HOMABAY COUNTY HEADQUARTERS APPROVED BY NLC

    During the Handling over of consent to lease land by Homabay County.

    The National Land Commission (NLC)has approved the land lease request by the County Government of Homabay for the development of the new Homabay County Headquarters.

    This critical step paves the way for the construction of a modern and efficient facility that will serve the people of Homabay for the years to come.The county has leased the land to the CPF Group which will develop the project through a financing model, the tenant purchase scheme that allows for flexible and long-term financial support. This project has been made possible by the Homa Bay County Infrastructure Act that was passed at the County Assembly to provide a framework for partnerships with private and public entities to finance County priority infrastructure.

    “We are delighted to present the lease approval to the County Government of Homabay,” Said the National Land Commission Chair, Mr. Gershom Otachi.

    “Homa Bay has set the way for ensuring compliance with the law on strategic utilization of land to attract long-term investment. NLC stands ready to facilitate similar transactions for other County Governments.”
    “We thank the National Land Commission and Homabay County for facilitating this transaction and making the project attractive for potential investors. We are excited to be pioneers of a transaction engagement of this kind that leverages innovative financing models like the tenant purchase scheme for public infrastructure projects,” said CPF Group Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Hosea Kili.

    “This achievement represents a significant landmark for us as a county, we are grateful to the National Land Commission for expediting this process. We are also proud to partner with CPF Group, which has demonstrated its confidence in our county’s financial standing. The new headquarters will serve as a cornerstone for enhanced innovation, productivity, and service delivery for all residents of Homabay.” said the Homabay County Governor, H. E Gladys Wanga.

    The construction of the Homabay County Headquarters is a significant step towards a brighter future for the county. This project will not only provide a modern and efficient workspace for county government officials, but it will also serve as a symbol of progress and development for the entire region.

    Established under Article 67 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010, the National Land Commission (NLC) is pivotal in the transformation of land administration and management in Kenya. As an independent public body, NLC’s overarching mandate includes securing and managing public land and exercising oversight over all land use across the nation for the benefit of all Kenyans.

    The NLC was operationalized through significant legislative frameworks including the National Land Commission Act, 2012; the Land Act, 2012; and the Land Registration Act, 2012. These acts collectively empower the Commission, placing it strategically at the apex of land and environmental management as stipulated in Chapter Five of the Constitution. The Supreme Court’s Advisory No 2 of 2014 further reinforces NLC’s role, emphasizing its consultative, advisory, and safeguard-oriented functions, particularly in addressing land grievances.