Category: POPULAR

  • KNPSWU Welcomes Move To Dignify Private Security officers

    Isaac GM Andabwa National Secretary General Kenya National Private Security Workers Union

    The Kenya National Private Security workers Union (KNPSWU) under the very and wise leadership of the Secretary General Dr. Isaac GM Andabwa has welcomed the move to dignify and elevate the welfare of private security officers who were earlier on demeaned, looked down upon and just referred colloquially as soldier, Omwami, askari rungu.

    The General Secretary made the remarks Saturday at Uhuru park where hundreds of guards from various private security companies had turned up for the mass registration exercise.

    The government has introduced a Guard Force Number (GFN) in a bid to enhance oversight and coordination within the private security sector.
    The Private Security Regulatory Authority (PSRA) Chief Executive Officer Fazul Mahamed pointed out some security companies for failing to commit to raising the minimum wages of their employees to Ksh30,000. He gave them a one-week’s ultimatum to comply or else risk having their names published.

    “We will not recognize any CBA below Ksh30,000. Next week, I will be publishing the names of companies that have not committed to implementing the CBA,” stated Fazul.

    The contentious raise of minimum salaries of the guards dominated the agenda at the meeting with Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja expressing dissatisfaction with unfulfilled commitments to private security guards.

    “Change is imperative. We cannot continue with business as usual. Commitments must be honored,” declared Governor Sakaja, stressing the mandatory nature of minimum wage laws.
    United Democratic Alliance Secretary General Cleophas Malala, urged security group leaders to advocate for the implementation of agreements reached during the meeting.
    “Our party will ensure the resolutions made here today are put into action,” Malala asserted, stressing the importance of holding companies accountable for failing to adhere to the agreements.

  • Kimani Wa Makaratasi a Beacon of Hope for The Youths

    Kimani Wa Makaratasi a Beacon of Hope for youth is a humble and kind person. He does not boast of his achievements, he rather uses his God-given talents as leverage for other youths whilst inspiring them to achieve their potential.

    He is Kimani wa Makaratasi, the founder and Chief executive Office of Jamii Products, a fully-Kenyan born company dealing with recycling khaki paper and fabricating awesome products from the same.

    We caught up with this gentleman in his workshop and this is what he had to share with us:
    “My idea was born out of the Government’s Declaration of a “total Ban” on single-use plastics way back in 2017. The Government envisaged a cleaner environment and thereby imposed the ban, which triggered my imagination on a more climate-friendly mode of packaging. It’s then that I started making packaging bags out of khaki paper which is 100% biodegradable (meaning it does not pose a threat to our environment. Moreover, its also 100% recyclable, with nothing going to waste,” he noted.
    Our hawk-eyed crew noticed workers as busy as a bee pre-forming, casting and making very attractive packaging bags and gift packs, not to forget cake boxes. The workshop was a beehive of activities with the very humble CEO throwing an eye here and there to see that everything runs smoothly.

    “Currently Jamii Products Limited has employed twenty full-time staff who eke a living out of this business. Mostly youths, I am focused on delivering them from the voracious threat of drug, substance, and psychotropic substance abuse – which sometimes renders them zombies. I’m also very alive to our government’s commitment of the Bottom Up Economic Transformation agenda (BETA) which envisions to uplift and empower those on the bottommost tier of the pyramid,” he added.
    He is an Equal-Opportunity Provider
    The Constitution of Kenya (promulgated in 2010); Article 54 (A person with any disability is entitled;
    (a) to be treated with dignity and respect and to be addressed and referred to in a manner that is not demeaning;
    (b) to access educational institutions and facilities for persons with disabilities that are integrated into society to the extent compatible with the interests of the person;
    (c) to reasonable access to all places, public transport and information;
    (d) to use Sign language, Braille or other appropriate means of communication; and
    (e) to access materials and devices to overcome constraints arising from the person’s disability.
    stipulates that all Kenyans are entitled to the highest standards of living, including persons living with disabilities. Cognizant of this fact, Kimani wa Makaratasi offers them FREE TRAINING thereby empowering them with hands-on skills to be able to live a decent, independent life, thus dignifying them. Training classes take 7-10 days with a very affordable fee of Ksh 15,000 and one is open for all regardless of their education level and no age limits.
    Kimani wa Makaratasi also carries out Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) for prisoners country-wide.

  • Josiah Kariuki and John Ngugi rallying with Bang Bet

    Josiah Kariuki and John Ngugi rallying with Bang Bet

    As the WRC Safari Rally Kenya kicks off amidst a flurry of excitement and anticipation, all eyes are on the dynamic duo, Josiah Kariuki and John Ngugi, who are primed to make waves in this thrilling motorsport spectacle. Piloting the ex-Don Smith FIA Africa Rally Championship-winning car adorned in vibrant BangBet livery, Kariuki and Ngugi are set to embark on an exhilarating journey filled with twists, turns, and the promise of victory.

    Navigator John Ngugi, a second-generation driver with rallying in his blood, exudes confidence as he discusses their preparations for the rally. With meticulous attention to detail and the expertise of Don Smith’s seasoned mechanics servicing their car, Kariuki and Ngugi are poised for success. “We’ve left no stone unturned in our preparations. Recce went smoothly, and despite the Easter rains adding a touch of slipperiness to the stages, we’re ready to tackle the challenges head-on,” Ngugi affirms.

    Reflecting on past endeavors, Ngugi recalls their previous attempts at the Safari Rally with a mix of determination and optimism. Despite setbacks in previous years, including a minor hiccup during scrutineering, the duo remains undeterred, fueled by the unwavering support of their sponsor, BangBet. “Rallying demands resilience, and we’re grateful for BangBet’s steadfast backing. They’ve enabled us to pursue our passion and compete on the grand stage,” Ngugi acknowledges.

    For Kariuki and Ngugi, the Safari Rally represents more than just a competition; it’s a test of endurance, skill, and strategy. As they navigate the treacherous fesh-fesh speed tests, their focus remains on preserving the integrity of their car while pushing boundaries on the rugged terrain. “Driving sensibly is key to a successful Safari. We aim to strike the perfect balance between speed and caution, ensuring we cross the finish line with our heads held high,” Ngugi elaborates.

    Under the watchful gaze of technical delegate Musa Locho, the BangBet-sponsored car underwent rigorous scrutiny at the Wildlife Research & Training Institute in Naivasha, a testament to their commitment to adhering to the highest standards of safety and performance.

    For Ngugi, the legacy of rallying runs deep in his veins, as the son of the late John Ngugi Senior, a revered rally driver of the 1990s. Embracing his family’s heritage, Ngugi embarks on the Safari Rally with a sense of pride and purpose, carrying forward his father’s legacy with every twist of the wheel.

    As Ngugi navigates the challenging Naivasha course, he joins a cadre of second-generation drivers, each driven by a shared passion for motorsport and a desire to leave their mark on rallying history. Among them are Carl “Flash” Tundo, Hamza Anwar, and Oliver Solberg, a testament to the enduring legacy of rallying dynasties.

    For Ngugi, the journey from childhood dreams to professional racer has been a remarkable odyssey—one fueled by passion, perseverance, and the unwavering support of sponsors like BangBet. As he revs up for the Safari Rally, Ngugi embodies the spirit of a true champion, ready to conquer the track and inspire a new generation of motorsport enthusiasts

  • Expeditions Maasai Safaris is the best

    It’s easy to understand why Expeditions Maasai Safaris is the best, most preferred and fastest growing tour and travel company globally.

    Carefully and meticulously steered by the skilled hands of the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mr Pancras Karema, Expeditions Maasai Safaris ensures all Kenyans can comfortably enjoy holiday.

    “Congratulations Baba Talisha. A fully paid all-inclusive 3-day holiday to Mombasa? for 3 people awaits you over Easter.

     

    Tukisema, tunatenda?. Help us welcome Baba Talisha. to the Expeditions Maasai Safaris family??.”

    Expeditions Maasai Safaris can be reached on 0783 999 999

  • Amref Launches Maternal and Newborn Health (MNH) Big Bet initiative

    During the Amref forum at Villa RosaKempinski Nairobi

    Amref Health Africa in Kenya has launched the Maternal and Newborn Health (MNH) Big Bet initiative, aptly named Sparking Change, Saving Lives – Quality Healthcare for Moms and Babies.

     

    This is a bold stride towards reducing the high rates of maternal and newborn mortality in Kenya and accelerating progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Commitments.

    The groundbreaking initiative was unveiled at a high-profile roundtable meeting held at Villa Rossa Kempinski, bringing together Governors from various counties, particularly those grappling with high maternal and newborn deaths.

    The Maternal and Newborn health Big Bet aims to forge new alliances to spearhead
    investment and execution of transformative strategies, with a resolute focus on
    enhancing the survival and well-being of expectant mothers and newborns in Kenyan
    counties. Investments are needed to achieve these ambitious targets. Furthermore, the
    initiative endeavors to enlist the support of Kenyan governors, particularly from regions
    burdened with high maternal and newborn deaths, to champion maternal health and
    accord it paramount importance within their jurisdictions. In this initial phase, we will collaborate with counties that face the greatest burden. They include – Tana River,
    Garissa, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Machakos, Homabay, Siaya, Wajir, Kilifi,
    Murang’a, Makueni, Migori, and Turkana counties.

    Despite commendable strides in improving maternal and newborn health in Kenya,
    recent statistics from the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS, 2022) on maternal mortality ratio currently stands at 355 per 100,000 live births and Neonatal mortality rate stands at 21 per 1000 live births. These figures are far from the from the SDG target of 70 per 100,000 live births and 12 per 1000 live births by 2030 respectively. Notably, 24 health facilities across the13 counties contribute significantly to the persistently high rates of maternal and neonatal deaths in Kenya (Kenya Health Information System).Under the Maternal and Newborn health Big Bet, Amref Health Africa has identified four
    pivotal game-changers aimed at addressing the high number of deaths, ensuring
    healthy pregnancies and safe deliveries in 60 referral health facilities across highburden counties. These game-changers include the establishment of High Response Maternity Units, strengthening response systems for neonatal emergencies,
    strengthening Primary Health Care, and strengthening accountability for every mother and newborn.

    “To achieve the set target, there is need for greater investments in maternal and
    newborn health by ecosystem players” said Dr Meshack Ndirangu, Country Director,
    Amref Health Africa in Kenya.

    Dr. Ndirangu also underscored the strategic alignment of these game-changers with
    Amref’s 2023-2030 strategic plan, which aims to transform the health of communities
    through Primary Health Care with a focus on women and young people. Furthermore, it aligns to the Kenyan Government’s commitment towards realization of Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and commitments in Ending Preventable Maternal Mortalities and
    Every Newborn Action Plan.
    Speaking during the launch, H.E. Wisley Kipyegon Rotich, Governor, Elgeyo Marakwet County expressed optimism in achieving zero maternal mortality in Kenya and thanked Amref for the leadership. “We are grateful to Amref Health Africa for their support in driving us towards zero preventable maternal and child deaths. Drawing from the Ministry of Health’s insights, we, the governors and health committee, commit to support the MNH Big Bet Initiative and work towards zero maternal mortality rates in our counties,” he said.

    (more…)

  • Kenyan M. P. silences the floor for 4 minutes with a powerful presentation on the need for Equitable Data Representation in the Artificial Intelligence Race


    Kenyan outspoken Member of Parliament John Kiarie and the Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on communication, information, and innovation on Monday made Kenya Proud on the Global Scene when making a very candid, informed, and detailed presentation and contribution on the need for equitable data representation in the artificial intelligence race.

    John Kiarie noted: “When we are having a conversation on AI Human Rights and Democracy, you understand why Africa is walking into this very cautiously. We do not want to walk into it blindly. We want to walk into it vigilantly. The lessons from the past have taught us that there are developments that can be exploitative to individuals to communities and even to countries. And now that we know that AI, and the Fourth Industrial Revolution will be fueled by data, the question begs: what does the data representation look like as we go into this fourth industrial revolution? As we look into the data centers and where they are being stationed in the world, we see that the Southern Hemisphere is very disenfranchised. A case in point, we got to look historically, Africa has passed its indigenous knowledge, beliefs, their cultures from one generation to another orally. It has not been recorded, not in numbers not in words, indigenous data that is not in our books, is not in the library, and is not even in the internet from which the AI systems are scraping data out of.

    I was very excited about what Mr. Sebar said, because in the context of AI and democracy and human rights, then Parliaments must advocate for Affirmative Actions that ensure inclusivity and equity in the principle of leaving nobody behind. We’ve got to ask ourselves: if this data that is being scraped off the internet, is what is going to fuel the Artificial Intelligence, what will some of the communities contribute to this data? Does it mean some cultures, some religions, some beliefs or some tribes are going to go extinct in this what we are calling the fourth industrial revolution.

  • C & I Installations to play a Role in Attaining the 100 Percent Clean Energy in Kenya

    A pannel discussion during the ESAK conference 27th March at Sarova Panafric Nairobi.

    The Electricity Sector Association of Kenya (ESAK) has highlited the need to include captive power installations in Kenya to help achieve the 100 percent clean energy by 2030.

    The Conference theme ” accelerating C & I installations for sustainability” which is also in line with the country’s push for 100 percent renewable energy.

    “C & I is a key enabler of sustainability. We see more uptake of C & I installations not only being beneficial to the grid but also useful to customers looking to manage costs, maintain a green manufacturing portfolio and ensure energy security .” Said Eddy Njoroge, Chairperson ESAK.

    EPRA are working on the wheeling regulations and net metering regulations which will allow for more consumer control of electricity production.

    There has been an uprising installations of captive power of meaning , that consumers are installing their own power generation facilities. These consumers normally already have a connection to the grid, via a KPLC line. Large and Medium sized consumers like factories, lodges and shopping malls are choosing to go solar. These installations were initially motivated by the enforcement of energy management rules by EPRA in the last 14 years.

    “Today the drive is not only energy efficiency but also energy security , improving power quality and responding to environmental targets. Captive systems offer supply where the grid has not reached allowing establishments to access the services of electricity in an environmentally responsible manner.” Said George Aluru ESAK CEO.

    The opening up of captive power plant market also allows for the absorption of foreign direct investment in the country and savings on public finance of electricity infrastructure, that will lead to better economic outcomes for the country. Jobs will be created, investment will be absorbed, efficiency will be improved, and new service companies established to support these installations.
    “The anticipated 1GW of C&I installations by 2030 would equate to a total of USD1bn worth of investments in the country.”, noted Mr.Aluru.

    In addition, As at 2023, C&I installations in Kenya were estimated at 439MW and is projected to reach 1GW by 2030. The growth in C&I installations is highly attributed to companies need to go green and cut on their carbon print, need for energy security and cheaper as well efficiency for industries.
    In Kenya, the C&I energy mix comprises of solar PV, small hydro, bioenergy as well geothermal.

  • Search For Common Ground Aims to Inspire Peace and Security

    Search For Common Ground has today held a Sensitization workshop that highlighted the need to address and end cases of insecurity in Lamu, Garissa and other places.

    The forum also saw the launch of a document addressing on encountering Violence Extremism.

    The auspacious occassion saw the attendance of Civil Society organisations, National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) and other Government Partners.

    “We are not trying to make people sign a piece of paper to stop fighting. Our goal is much broader. We want to transform conflict from violent to cooperative, to change the everyday interactions between people in conflict from destructive to constructive.
    Transforming conflict can be as simple as “reframing” a situation creating a new context in which people attack common problems, rather than each other. A win-lose, you-or-me mindset just perpetuates violence because it disregards the fact that the people involved still have to co-exist after someone wins.” Said Judy Kimamo Country Director Kenya, Somalia and Ethiopia.

    Various issues like extremism were also mentioned during the discussions where this normally means holding of extreme political or religious views or fanaticism. The issue of radicalization of Youth was also in debate.

    The Country Director further observed that, there is need to engage with the Counties and the police to end extremism and radicalization cases, With a slogan Kwa Pamoja Tuzuie Balaa.
    Empowering Community leaders and Government counterparts in inspiring peace and security in Lamu and Garissa.

    There is also need to sign peace deals, to make sure that we are stable, to make sure all parties are involved. Ending conflict in Lamu Garissa. Ending also acts of extremism.

    Social media has also been of help by using it to advocate for issues from various groups.
    Gender based violence is also tackled here.
    Issues of Personification, docking are tackled to ensure the space for women and children is safe . We have also done training with Meta and part of funding we receive from various donors like USA.

    Barriers towards information from affected areas have been successfully removed and
    Access to justice is all that is needed.

    Hon. Pascal Nabwana observed that, Alternative dispute solving mechanism do work well and where cases are prolonged in court in Lamu they have alternative dispute resolution where elders of Community solve minor cases in a Cultural way.
    One is able to have people resolve cases peacefully, the succes rate on this is very high. Examples of Peace making Initiatives were also showcased.

    Search For Common Ground are purposeful in creating a more diverse and inclusive culture at Search and knows that no one succeeds alone, so they embrace courageous engagement and collaboration and listen deeply to new ideas, welcoming multiple and fresh perspectives
    Our differences beliefs, values, and backgrounds lead to conflict. These disagreements are natural. It’s when we respond with anger, fear, or even hatred that we’ve started down a destructive path. But violence is not inevitable. Disagreements are opportunities to learn new perspectives. Conflict is a chance to work together and find a solution that addresses everyone’s needs.

  • Anti-Counterfeit Authority Hosts Fair Competition Commission of Tanzania to combat cross-border counterfeit goods

    Anti-Counterfeit Authority Hosts Fair Competition Commission of Tanzania to combat cross-border counterfeit goods

    The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) and the Fair Competition Commission (FCC) of Tanzania have announced a renewed partnership aimed at intensifying its efforts to disrupt and combat the trade in counterfeit goods across the region.

    The collaboration was formalized during a benchmarking and collaboration session, where a delegation from the Fair Competition Commission of Tanzania visited Kenya.

    Both institutions, mandated to combat counterfeiting and illicit trade while promoting fair trade practices, underscored the importance of concerted regional action in addressing this growing challenge.

    Against the backdrop of enhanced bilateral talks between Kenya and Tanzania, the two East African economic powerhouses are focusing on strengthening trade relations and overcoming barriers that impede their commercial ties.

    Counterfeit and illicit products pose significant threats to economic stability, public health, and safety, not only within the region but also globally. The current trade between Kenya and Tanzania stands at Ksh. 90 billion annually.

    According to the 2018 report, counterfeiting represents one of the largest criminal enterprises globally, with estimated domestic and international sales ranging from $1.7 trillion to $4.5 trillion annually, surpassing even drug trafficking and human trafficking in scale.

    Regional assessments by the International Peace Institute indicate an annual market share of Ksh. 180 billion for counterfeit trading within the East African Community as of 2017.

    In Kenya alone, counterfeit trading was valued at Ksh 70 billion in 2017, reaching Ksh 90 billion in 2029, rivaling key sectors like tourism, tea, and coffee traditionally top earners for the country.

    During the event, Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge, Executive Director of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority, stressed the urgent need to address the counterfeit menace, highlighting the detrimental impacts on the economy, investor confidence, and innovation.

    Echoing the sentiment, Mr. William Eroi, Director General of the Fair Competition Commission, emphasized the patriotic duty shared by both agencies to stand for fair and open trade, ensuring economic growth and prosperity across their nations.

  • Anti-Counterfeit Authority Hosts Fair Competition Commission (FCC) of Tanzania in renewed regional efforts to combat cross-border trade in counterfeit goods

    During the meeting Between the ACA and FCC of Tanzania at Nairobi ACA headquarters

    The Anti-Counterfeit Authority (ACA) and the Fair Competition Commission (FCC) of Tanzania have announced a renewed partnership aimed at intensifying their efforts to disrupt and combat the trade in counterfeit goods across the region.

    The collaboration was formalized during a benchmarking and collaboration session, where a delegation from the Fair Competition Commission of Tanzania visited Kenya. Both institutions, mandated to combat counterfeiting and illicit trade while promoting fair trade practices, underscored the importance of concerted regional action in addressing this growing challenge.
    Against the backdrop of enhanced bilateral talks between Kenya and Tanzania, the two East African economic powerhouses are focusing on strengthening trade relations and overcoming barriers that impede
    their commercial ties.

    Counterfeit and illicit products pose significant threats to economic stability, public health, and safety, not
    only within the region but also globally. Current trade between Kenya and Tanzania stands at Ksh 90 billion annually. According to the OECD’s 2018 report, counterfeiting represents one of the largest criminal enterprises globally, with estimated domestic and international sales ranging from $1.7 trillion to $4.5 trillion annually, surpassing even drug trafficking and human trafficking in scale.

    Regional assessments by the International Peace Institute indicate an annual market share of Ksh 180 billion for counterfeit trading within the East African Community as of 2017. In Kenya alone, counterfeit
    trading was valued at Ksh 70 billion in 2017, reaching Ksh 90 billion in 2029, rivaling key sectors like tourism, tea, and coffee – traditionally top earners for the country.
    During the event, Dr. Robi Mbugua Njoroge, Executive Director of the Anti-Counterfeit Authority, stressed the urgent need to address the counterfeit menace, highlighting the detrimental impacts on the
    economy, investor confidence, and innovation. Echoing the sentiment, Mr. William Eroi, Director General of the Fair Competition Commission, emphasized the patriotic duty shared by both agencies to stand for fair and open trade, ensuring economicgrowth and prosperity across their nations.

    The renewed partnership opens avenues for law enforcement agencies to develop innovative approaches and strategies in combating counterfeit trade. Areas of collaboration will include information sharing for enforcement actions, public outreach, research, and expertise exchange, with the overarching goal of
    enhancing investigative capabilities and intelligence networks to successfully tackle counterfeit and illicit trade activities.

    The Anti-Counterfeit Authority was established under the Anti-Counterfeit Act 2008 as a State Corporation with the mandates to enlighten and inform the public on matters relating to counterfeiting,
    combat counterfeiting, trade and other dealings in counterfeit goods, devise and promote training programs to combat counterfeiting and co-ordinate with national, regional or international organizations involved in combating counterfeiting.

    It is a state corporation currently within the Ministry of Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry. The Act was passed by Kenya’s Parliament in 2008, it came into force on 1st July 2009 with the principal aim
    of prohibiting trade in counterfeit goods. The Authority came into operation in June 2010.