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  • The 10th Annual East Africa Property Investment Summit Kicks off in Nairobi

    The 10th Annual East Africa Property Investment Summit Kicks off in Nairobi

    Real Estate investors in East Africa are upbeat about the opportunities within the region that have seen an increased interest in the sector.

    This was revealed during the 10th Annual East Africa Property Investment Summit Kicks that kicked off today in Nairobi.

    Absa Bank Kenya Managing Director, Abdi Mohammed noted that as East Africa continues to experience rapid urbanization, the demand for affordable housing will continue to soar.

    “There is also growing awareness of the importance of sustainable development with developers increasingly incorporating green technologies and sustainable building practices in their projects, meeting the growing demand for eco-friendly properties. Investors and developers who keep abreast of these trends and adapt their strategies accordingly are likely to succeed in this exciting and rapidly evolving market”, Mr. Abdi noted.

    Pricing Opportunities

     

    Additionally, the resilience and performance of the Light Industrial and Warehousing sector in the region provide a new frontier for investors to acquire new assets and increase returns in the short term. “While it is still in its infancy, A-grade industrial real estate in the region has shown outstanding performance potential to be able to weather any downturns expected,” said Donald Borthwick of London-listed Grit Real Estate Income Group.

    The region’s maturing sub-segments are also supporting allocations and strategy. These include retail, student housing and industrial which appear to exhibit a higher level of maturity than other regions in the continent except South Africa. “Nairobi’s position as the hub of East Africa has also enhanced occupier demand. So far, Kenya has seen a 9% increase quarter on quarter in the number of registered businesses in Q1 2023 resulting in 37,176 registrations in Q1 2023. Key occupiers in the financial services and tech sectors are continuing to drive demand in the commercial sector pointing to cautious optimism on the traditional real estate sectors as well.” Tilda Mwai, Research Associate at Estate Intel noted.

    Property analysts remain cautiously optimistic about middle-income residential, student housing, corporate accommodation and data centers, as well as performing retail and office sectors.

  • The Role Of Technology In Creating Personalized Home Appliances

    The Role Of Technology In Creating Personalized Home Appliances

    1.   What are some of the personalized home appliances created by Samsung technology?

     

    We have the Smart refrigerators, which are refrigerators that can be controlled and monitored remotely via smartphone apps. They feature touch screens that allow users to leave notes, make grocery lists, and check the weather forecast. We also have the Smart ovens. These are ovens that can be preheated, set to specific temperatures, and even turned off using a smartphone app. They also have built-in cameras that allow users to monitor the cooking process remotely. We can also add to the list the Smart washing machines which can be remotely controlled and monitored via a smartphone app. They also have features that allow users to customize their wash cycles, such as the water temperature, spin speed, and detergent levels and the Smart air conditioners. These are air conditioners that can be controlled remotely via a smartphone app. They feature sensors that detect when people are in the room, and can adjust the temperature and fan speed accordingly. Lastly, we have the Smart vacuum cleaners that can be controlled and monitored via a smartphone app. They feature sensors that detect obstacles and adjust their cleaning patterns accordingly. Some of these products are not available locally but can be purchased on order at our various Samsung stores.

     

     

    2.   How does Samsung technology enable greater customization and control over household devices?

     

    Samsung technology enables greater customization and control over household devices through the use of smart home technology, artificial intelligence, and machine learning algorithms. With Samsung’s smart home platform, SmartThings, users can control and monitor their Samsung appliances from their smartphones. This allows for greater convenience and flexibility, as users can adjust their appliances from anywhere and at any time. Furthermore, Samsung also utilizes AI and machine learning algorithms in their appliances to learn user behavior and preferences. This enables the appliances to personalize their functions based on the user’s habits and needs, such as automatically adjusting the temperature in a room or optimizing the washing cycle based on the type of clothes being washed. We also have Samsung appliances that are designed with sensors and internet connectivity, which allow them to gather data on their usage and performance. This data can be used to further personalize the appliance’s functions, predict and prevent malfunctions or breakdowns, and improve energy efficiency. Overall, Samsung technology enables greater customization and control over household devices by leveraging smart home technology, AI, machine learning, sensors, and internet connectivity.

     

    3.   What is the role of Samsung’s smart home platform, SmartThings, in creating personalized home appliances?

    SmartThings is a platform that connects Samsung’s smart home devices, allowing users to control and monitor them from a single smartphone app. This integration allows for greater customization and control over household appliances, as users can set up routines and automations to suit their needs and preferences. For example, with SmartThings, users can set up a routine that turns off all the lights in the house and locks the doors when they leave. These routines can be customized to fit each user’s lifestyle and preferences. SmartThings also allows for third-party devices to be integrated into the platform, further expanding the possibilities for personalization and customization. For example, users can integrate their smart locks, and even their car’s GPS system into the SmartThings app, creating a seamless and personalized smart home experience. The role of Samsung’s SmartThings platform in creating personalized home appliances is to enable seamless integration and control of Samsung’s smart home devices and third-party devices, providing users with greater customization and control over their household appliances.

     

     

    4.   What are some of the unique features of Samsung’s personalized home appliances, and how do they benefit consumers?

    Samsung’s personalized home appliances have several unique features that benefit consumers, and this includes the AI and machine learning algorithms which Samsung’s appliances are designed with. They learn from user behavior and preferences. This allows the appliances to personalize their functions based on the user’s habits and needs, providing a more customized experience. We also have sensor technology, whereby Samsung appliances feature sensors that can detect changes in the environment, such as temperature and humidity levels. This allows the appliances to adjust their functions accordingly, providing optimal performance and energy efficiency. Samsung’s appliances are connected to the internet, allowing users to control and monitor them from anywhere using their smartphone or tablet. This provides greater convenience and flexibility, allowing users to adjust their appliances on the go. Furthermore, some of Samsung’s appliances, such as their smart refrigerators, feature touchscreen displays that can be used to leave notes, make grocery lists, and even watch TV. This provides an added level of functionality and convenience. Overall, the unique features of Samsung’s personalized home appliances benefit consumers by providing a more customized and convenient experience, optimizing performance and energy efficiency, and making it easier to interact with their appliances.

     

    5.   How does Samsung utilize AI and machine learning in their personalized home appliances?

    Samsung utilizes AI and machine learning in their personalized home appliances to learn user behavior and preferences, and provide a more customized experience. With personalized settings, Samsung’s appliances can learn the user’s behavior patterns and preferences, and automatically adjust their settings to provide the best possible experience. For example, a washing machine may learn the user’s preferred water temperature, spin cycle, and detergent level, and adjust these settings automatically. Samsung’s appliances can also use machine learning algorithms to predict when maintenance is required, and even alert the user in advance. This helps prevent unexpected breakdowns and prolongs the life of the appliance. We also have a few Samsung appliances, such as their smart refrigerators, which feature voice recognition technology that can learn the user’s voice and provide a more personalized experience. For example, the refrigerator may learn the user’s voice and recognize when they ask for specific information, such as the weather or news updates. At Samsung, we try to be very energy efficient. That is why Samsung appliances can use machine learning to optimize energy consumption, reducing energy costs and minimizing their impact on the environment. For example, an air conditioner may learn the user’s habits and preferences, and automatically adjust the temperature and fan speed to minimize energy consumption while maintaining a comfortable environment.

     

    6.   How does Samsung ensure the security and privacy of their personalized home appliances?

    Samsung takes several measures to ensure the security and privacy of their personalized home appliances through secure communication. Samsung appliances use encrypted communication channels to ensure that user data is transmitted securely between the appliance and the cloud. This helps prevent unauthorized access and data breaches. There are regular software updates where Samsung appliances receive regular software updates that include security patches and bug fixes. This helps ensure that the appliance remains secure and up-to-date. To further ensure safety we have authentication and authorization mechanisms to ensure that only authorized users can access the appliance and its data. For example, a smart lock may require a password or fingerprint scan to unlock the door.

    Lastly, Samsung has clear privacy policies that outline how user data is collected, used, and shared. They also provide users with control over their data, allowing them to delete or modify their data as needed

     

    7.   What are some future plans or innovations for Samsung’s personalized home appliances?

    At Samsung we are constantly working on new innovations and improvements for our personalized home appliances through enhanced connectivity of our appliances. We want to make it easier for users to control and monitor their appliances from anywhere and that is why we are improving our AI and machine learning algorithms by investing in technologies that will improve the personalization of our appliances to provide a more customized experience. As for being energy efficient, Samsung is working on developing more energy-efficient appliances that help users reduce their energy consumption and save money on their utility bills. They are exploring new technologies, such as solar power and advanced sensors, to improve energy efficiency. Samsung is committed to sustainability and is exploring new ways to use sustainable materials in their appliances. We are investing in research and development to find new materials that are eco-friendly and reduce the impact of our appliances on the environment. Our plans and innovations for our personalized home appliances demonstrate our commitment to improving the user experience and making our appliances more efficient, sustainable, and connected.

  • Bahati MP Makes it To Top 5 Position Countrywide

    Bahati MP Makes it To Top 5 Position Countrywide

    The Honorable Irene Njoki, has achieved the fifth position among the best-performing legislators in Kenya, according to Politrack Africa, an independent pollster. This recognition places her among the top-performing Members of Parliament in the country.

    The pollster determined the rankings based on a satisfaction ranking given by the constituents of each constituency on a scale of 1 to 10. The top position was secured by Kiharu Member of Parliament, Ndindi Nyoro, who received a 73.7% approval rating from his constituents. Hon. Babu Owino, the MP for Embakasi East, came in second place with a 72.1% approval rating. Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa and Mavoko MP Patrick Makau tied for third place with a 70.6% approval rating. In a tie for fourth place, Kiminini MP Hon. Maurice Kakau and Westlands Member of Parliament, Hon. Tim Wanyonyi, both received a 69.8% approval rating.

    Despite being a first-time Member of Parliament, Hon. Irene Njoki achieved the fifth position, which is an impressive accomplishment. She is also the leading female Member of Parliament among the women MPs who made it to the top 20, alongside Lilian Gogo of Rangwe and Roza Buyu of Kisumu West.

    The constituents’ satisfaction ratings were based on several factors, including the management of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) kitty, bursary allocations, and initiation of development projects. The voters also considered how vocal and accessible their MPs were in addressing the issues that affected them.

    Hon. Irene Njoki is commended for her dedication, enthusiasm, charisma, and strong determination in fulfilling her duties. Her ultimate goal is to make Bahati the leading constituency in Kenya in terms of development and set a benchmark for other constituencies to follow.

  • Kenyatta National hospital officials appear before public investment committee on social services, administration and agriculture to respond to audit queries

    Kenyatta National hospital officials appear before public investment committee on social services, administration and agriculture to respond to audit queries

    Officials from the Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) led by CEO Dr. Evanson N Kamuri were tasked to respond to tough questions raised by Members of the PIC-SSAA concerning the audit queries in the Auditor General’s report before the committee.

    Among the key concerns were issues regarding high number of unsettled debts owed by patients, unutilized leave for staff,among others.

    The outspoken CEO also highlighted the issues of land taken from KNH for the road and police hospital without compensation. The land was hived off for the link road with no compensation from KURA and also the police hospital land

    Dr. Evanson pleaded with the Committee to consider allocating more funds to the facility to enable them recruit more staff and sort the current challenge of under staffing. This, he noted, would ensure services are not interrupted when some employees proceed on leave.

    The legislators also sought to understand from the officials why the facility has a lot of unsettled debts owed by patients over the years. Members were also concerned on why the facility has been unable to follow up on the patients after they are discharged to ensure defaulters settle their bills.

    “The debt relates to patients who absconded from hospital before paying bills or entering into a formal credit arrangement with the facility,” explained Dr. Evanson.

    The CEO further explained that efforts have been made to follow up the debts through demand letters and short messages (SMS) using last known addresses for the patients. He added that the recovery of these debts has not been successful due to several factors among them, change of address by patients.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • SAMSUNG SMARTTHINGS FIND HITS NEW MILESTONE WITH 200 MILLION NODES HELPING FIND LOST DEVICES

    SAMSUNG SMARTTHINGS FIND HITS NEW MILESTONE WITH 200 MILLION NODES HELPING FIND LOST DEVICES

    Samsung Electronics announced that the SmartThings Find service has grown rapidly and now comprises more than 200 million find nodes working to help users locate their misplaced devices. Find nodes are devices that have been registered on the SmartThings Find service to help other Samsung Galaxy users to locate their lost devices.

    “We’re proud and excited to see the rapid growth of the SmartThings Find service. In less than two years, 200 million devices have opted in to help fellow Samsung Galaxy users find their misplaced devices making it one of the fastest growing services at Samsung,” said TM Roh, President and Head of Samsung Electronics’ MX (Mobile eXperience) Business. “Losing a device can be stressful, but SmartThings Find makes it easier to quickly locate and recover your device. It’s just one example of how a connected ecosystem of devices creates meaningful experiences for Samsung Galaxy users all over the world.”

     

    As a rapidly growing location service, SmartThings Find enables Samsung Galaxy users to quickly locate registered Samsung Galaxy devices from smartphones, tablets, watches and earbuds to personal belongings such as keys or your wallet that have a Galaxy SmartTag or SmartTag+1 device attached. SmartThings Find leverages Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and ultra-wideband (UWB) technology to locate your item. If your device is outside of your phone’s range, other nearby Samsung Galaxy users who have opted into SmartThings Find can help you locate it. If you grant SmartThings Find permission, SmartThings Find can also alert users that they have left their device behind.

    Ensuring the security of sensitive information like location data is a top priority for Samsung. SmartThings Find encrypts user data and keeps it protected by the defense-grade security platform, Samsung Knox. A device’s location data is only revealed to other people with the user’s permission and the ID of each user’s device changes every 15 minutes and is stored anonymously. SmartThings Find also helps users identify unknown SmartTags that follow them for a certain period of time.

     

    To find out more about SmartThings Find, visit SmartThings Find website.

     

     

     

    About SmartThings:

    SmartThings is the premier technology enabling connected living and driving the future of IoT. Its open platform already supports thousands of devices across hundreds of brands and offers endless possibilities to innovators and developers seeking seamless connectivity in a vast IoT ecosystem. The company is committed to bringing smart functionality and capabilities everywhere consumers want to be, while enhancing the user experience. There are currently millions of people in more than 200 countries accessing SmartThings technology daily to create automations and control facets of their smart homes via the SmartThings App and through a range of Samsung products such as phones, TVs and digital appliances. SmartThings offers the most flexible amount of protocols, including the new IoT standard, Matter. Launched in 2012, SmartThings is headquartered in Mountain View, CA and is a founding board member of Connectivity Standards Alliance, an organization of hundreds of companies creating, maintaining and delivering open, global standards for the IoT. For more information, please visit www.smartthings.com.

  • World Animal protection condemns the brutal Killing of six Lions in Kajiado County, Kenya

    World Animal protection condemns the brutal Killing of six Lions in Kajiado County, Kenya

    World Animal Protection is deeply saddened and appalled by the recent incident in which six lions from Amboseli National Park were cruelly killed following an alleged break-in at the nearby Nashipa village in Kajiado Sub-County. This tragic event comes just days after four other lions were killed, bringing the total number of lions killed in the Amboseli Ecosystem to a devastating ten (10).

    While we understand and empathize with the losses incurred by the community, we strongly condemn the cruel act of killing lions without considering alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. We appeal to the community to demonstrate compassion and respect towards wildlife. Furthermore, we urge them to refrain from invading wildlife territories, as habitat loss and depletion of natural food sources within the ecosystem may force wild animals to seek sustenance in nearby areas.

    This distressing incident serves as a stark reminder that wildlife have a right to a wild life and there can never be a peaceful coexistence between wild animals and humans if either keeps encroaching on the other’s ecosystem. To avert such tragic occurrences happening in future, we call upon the authorities tasked with the protection of wild animals to be proactive in safeguarding these magnificent creatures.

    World Animal Protection is committed to advocating for the welfare and protection of animals worldwide. We stand ready to collaborate with local communities, government authorities, and relevant stakeholders to promote sustainable practices that protect wildlife.

  • Xiaomi Redmi A2+ Device; Incredible Affordability with Outstanding Performance

    Xiaomi Redmi A2+ Device; Incredible Affordability with Outstanding Performance

    Xiaomi today announced the official launch of Redmi A2+, a great entry level device with a powerful MediaTek Helio G36 processor, 8MP AI dual camera system and a long-lasting 5000mAh battery.

    With the launch of Redmi A2+, Xiaomi raises the bar for the segment by making exceptional performance available at a highly affordable price, making it a top-of-the-line contender in its bracket. The device will come in a 2GB + 32GB variant at the affordable cost of Ksh. 10,499/-

    Large 5,000mAh battery and MediaTek Helio G36 

    Powering up Redmi A2+ is a MediaTek Helio G36 processor, with an octa-core CPU up to 2.2GHz. The device is equipped with a long-lasting 5,000mAh battery and 10W fast charging, that provides enough power to last you a full day.

    Large 6.52″ HD+ Dot Drop display packed into a trendy design 

    You can bring your favorite movies to life on the large 6.52″ HD+ display in a stylish flat frame design with a unibody curved back which produces a natural feel to Redmi 2A+ that other entry level smartphones can’t match. The device features a responsive rear fingerprint sensor and comes in three colours Black, Light Green and Light Blue.

    Photography with 8MP AI dual camera and 5MP selfie camera 

    Redmi 2A+ comes with an 8MP main camera for capturing and sharing your life moments and a 5MP front camera for clear selfies and a series of gallery features for a fun experience.

    The storage can be expanded to up to 1TB meaning it’s capable of storing a personal library of thousands of videos, songs and photos. Redmi A2+ comes with Android 13 (Go Edition) for a stable and engaging user experience. The devices will be available in Kenya from today.

  • Evelyn Cheluget today officially took over as the new Director General, Immigration Services

    Evelyn Cheluget today officially took over as the new Director General, Immigration Services

    Evelyn Cheluget today officially took over as the new Director General, Immigration Services. She holds a Master of Arts Degree in Diplomacy and International Studies and a Master of Business Administration (Strategic Management), both from the University of Nairobi and a Bachelor of Arts from Egerton University. Prior to her appointment, she has been working at the Immigration Department and has risen through ranks.

    At the Immigration and Citizen Services Department, she will be serving together with Christopher Kinyua Wanjau head National Registration Bureau, Paul Mwangemi head Civil Registration service, John Burugu head Department of Refugees Services and Isaac Ochieng head Digitisation Services.

  • Makini Schools Introduces Free Aftercare and Holiday Programme for Preschoolers

    Makini Schools, has today announced a free aftercare and holiday programme for preschoolers in their schools in Nairobi and in Kisumu. The programme is designed to support families with busy schedules while ensuring that learners stay engaged and inspired during school breaks with a primary focus on providing a safe and structured environment for children to learn and explore.

    The aftercare and holiday programme will offer a wide range of activities, including arts and crafts, music, drama, sports, and technology (coding), to keep learners creatively engaged.

    Speaking on the initiative, Makini Schools’ Regional Managing Director, Mr. Horace Mpanza highlighted that the programme was specifically created to address the requirements of working parents who often find it challenging to balance their work responsibilities with their child’s school schedule.

    “We recognize the challenges faced by working parents in securing suitable childcare arrangements after school hours and during school holidays. We have listened to our parents’ concerns and in response, we believe that the aftercare and holiday programme will provide flexible scheduling options, enabling parents to fulfill their work obligations while ensuring that their children receive excellent care and gain valuable skills. This win-win situation benefits both parents and children,” said Mr. Mpanza.

    He added that the programme will be complemented by the top-of-the-line facilities and a team of well-trained and experienced teachers, at the institution. “Our schools have the necessary facilities to enable learners to access a rich and stimulating learning environment even during school breaks,” he said.

    The holiday programme will be offered in 4-6 week long sessions, with classes running for 2 hours on weekdays from 3:15 pm – 5:15 pm. Additional classes for upper grades are expected to be added throughout the year, offering a comprehensive range of opportunities for learners to learn and grow.

    Makini Schools is committed to providing quality education, support and value to its learners and families, and the aftercare and holiday programme is yet another example of this commitment.

    With its comprehensive range of activities, flexible scheduling, and cost-effective approach, the programme is sure to be a valuable resource for learners and families alike.

    Additionally, parents and guardians can rest assured that their children will be safe and supervised, as the programme is designed to provide a structured and secure environment for children.

    The programme is free of cost and open to all pre-school learners.

    Makini Pre-School learners playing with beam balances at Ngong Campus during the launch of the Aftercare and Holiday Program. The free program is meant to cater for parents with busy schedules while ensuring that learners stay engaged and inspired after school and during holidays.

    Makini School learners engage in performing arts during the launch of the Aftercare and Holiday programme at Makini Preschool campus, Ngong Road. The program’s primary focus is to provide a safe and structured environment for children to learn and explore after school.

    Makini Preschool learners taking part in exploration and adventure activity jumping on a trampoline during the showcasing of the activities at the launch of the Aftercare and Holiday program at Makini Preschool campus, Ngong Road.

    About Makini Schools

    Makini Schools was founded in February 1978 by the late Dr. Pius Okelo and Dr. Mary Okelo. Currently, the school has five r campuses: The Ngong Road (mother) campus and the Makini Junior Academy on State House Avenue in Nairobi; Makini Junior School Migosi, Makini boarding School Kibos and Makini school Kisumu.

    On its 40th anniversary in 2018, the school changed ownership from the Okelo’s and is now under the ADvTECH Group. Makini Schools aim is to become a world class Kenyan curriculum and International curriculum school in the region.

  • Former Powerful PS and Farmers Party Leader Irungu Nyakera appointed KEMSA board chair

    Former Powerful PS and Farmers Party Leader Irungu Nyakera appointed KEMSA board chair

    Congratulations to Honorable Irungu Nyakera on his appointment as the Chairperson of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA). Hon Nyakera is the current party leader of the Farmer’s Party many say that it’s a testament to his abilities and leadership qualities.

    President Dr. William Ruto’s confidence in Honorable Irungu Nyakera is evident, as he describes him as a down-to-earth, approachable, thoughtful, charismatic, and visionary leader who is results-oriented. Honorable Nyakera has previously held esteemed positions as a Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Devolution and later in the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, where he has demonstrated his capabilities.

    “In exercise of the powers conferred by section 5 (1) (a) of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority Act, as read together with section 51 (1) of the Interpretation and General Provisions Act, I, William Samoei Ruto, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces of the Republic of Kenya, appoints— Irungu Nyakera as the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority, for a period of three (3) years.”

    He is determined to clean up the mess and deliver KEMSA from its troubled state.

    Undoubtedly, the role of leading KEMSA will not be easy, but Honorable Nyakera’s commitment and reliance on divine guidance are evident in his statement. With his leadership and the support of the team, it is hopeful that positive changes and improvements will be made within KEMSA, benefiting the healthcare system and the people of Kenya.

    In a statement on Tuesday, Nyakera said the task ahead will not be easy for him and the new team. He, however, assured Kenyans that they were up to the task, particularly in relation to corruption, and expresses gratitude to President Ruto for entrusting him with the task of leading the organization out of this predicament.

    “Today I wake up to a new role as the Chairperson of Kenya Medical Supplies Authority. The agency has been riddled with graft for the last few years and I thank His Excellency President William Ruto for believing in me to deliver KEMSA from the mess. We will clean the mess, I can assure Kenyans. It certainly won’t be easy, so help me God,” he said.

    Close relatives have wished Honorable Irungu Nyakera’s tenure as Chairperson of KEMSA to be marked by integrity, transparency, and effective management, leading to a more efficient and accountable medical supplies authority in Kenya.