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  • African leaders urged to harness seafarer green skills momentum in Kenya

    African leaders urged to harness seafarer green skills momentum in Kenya

    To take advantage of the social and economic benefits of shipping’s green transition, African maritime leaders are being encouraged to implement infrastructure to train and upskill seafarers.

    As the maritime industry transitions to a low and zero-carbon future, African policymakers are being advised to implement training infrastructure as quickly as possible to maximize ‘high-quality’ employment opportunities for African workers and facilitate the continent’s green transition.

    Speakers at today’s ‘Unlocking Green Maritime Jobs’ panel-discussion outlined the growing demand for seafarers able to handle low and zero-carbon fuels (such as hydrogen and ammonia) and new technologies that will be needed in order to progress towards a decarbonized maritime shipping sector by 2050.

    Negotiations are underway amongst International Maritime Organization Member States this July to consider a target for net zero emissions for shipping by 2050 in line with the 1.5°C goal of the Paris Agreement. Were this to be adopted, seafarer supply countries that take early action are likely to reap significant socio-economic benefits.

    Research commissioned by the Maritime Just Transition Task Force found up to 800,000 seafarers could require additional training by the mid-2030s to use these low- to zero-carbon fuels under the possible net zero target.

    African initiatives Africa is well positioned to be a green seafarer hub, explains South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) Occupational Health & Safety and Maritime Welfare Manager, Sibusiso Rantsoabe.

    “There is currently unprecedented demand for African seafarers and the urgent need to decarbonize creates further opportunities for our workers, who have already demonstrated their excellence in a global setting. Becoming a supply hub of the seafarers of the future is a win-win situation that will not only benefit African countries through the creation of good quality jobs, but the entire world by lowering the environmental impact of human actions. This presents an opportunity for Africa to ensure that we are not left behind but also cement our place as a potential new crewing frontier for shipping,” he says.

    There are some noteworthy initiatives already in place. The National Seafarer Development Programme (NSDP), run by the South African International Maritime Institute (SAIMI), is a regional effort that is empowering the deck, engine room and fishing crew of the future and creating good jobs for workers.

    SAIMI and the International Maritime Employers Council (IMEC) are also due to launch an IMEC South African cadet training programme this year, with the first group of 50 cadets starting this month.
    IMEC CEO Francesco Gargiulo, explains.

    “As an organization that represents over 260 maritime employers around the globe and works to negotiate fair and sustainable seafarers’ wages and conditions of employment on their behalf, it is clear to us that shipping’s decarbonization journey will be powered by human beings. The industry is already experiencing a need for sufficient skilled workers to operate modern vessels and this will only continue to grow over the coming years. As a potential major seafarer supply continent, developing the talent of African seafarers offers us a pathway to delivering a greener future for shipping and the wider maritime world.”

    Rewarding efforts As one of the world’s biggest growth markets with 1.3 billion people and a combined GDP of $3.5 trillion dollars, Africa could reap some of the rewards of shipping’s green transition. International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) Africa Regional Secretary, Mohammed Dauda Safiyanu, says:

    “Transitioning away from fossil fuels requires additional skill sets that must be properly developed, and while this is definitely a challenge, it is also an opportunity for African countries to develop their own highly skilled seafaring workforces. As part of a Just Transition, these jobs must be decent, which includes meeting the highest health and safety standards. They should also be fairly-paid, bringing economic benefits to the region and thereby improving parity between the global north and the global south. The sooner that we begin investing in green skills, the more likely it is that we can crew the low emission vessels of tomorrow. The future of green shipping in the region must involve high skill, high quality jobs for African seafarers.”

    Another advantage of setting up green seafarer training initiatives as early as possible is to minimize risk and human error when transitioning to new fuels and technologies, explained ICS Senior Manager Policy and Employment Affairs, Helio Vicente, ahead of the meeting.

    “Given the mix of low and zero carbon fuels set to power ships in the future, training and upskilling seafarers has never been more urgent. Technology must evolve in step with seafarer skills so that the shift to a greener future is done as safely and efficiently as possible, minimizing risk along the supply chain. African maritime leaders must act now to ensure that their workforces are primed for shipping’s green transition,” he states.

    Support for inclusive approach given the international scale and urgency of the action needed to decarbonize shipping in line with the Paris Agreement, coordinated action by stakeholders is vital. The Maritime Just Transition Task Force, which is primarily funded by Lloyd’s Register Foundation, believes that by working together, governments, policy makers, ship owners and operators, seafarers’ unions, and other stakeholders, will maximize the likelihood of a Just Transition. Sturla Henriksen, Special Advisor, Ocean, UN

    Global Compact, says: “Shipping’s green transition brings with it opportunities for thousands of high-quality, green jobs. Our Maritime Just Transition Task Force works to ensure that shipping’s transition to a zero-emission industry is as inclusive as possible. We now need governments to come to the International Maritime Organization this summer and align to the 1.5ºC of the Paris Agreement. This will create the market certainty to unlock the investments in seafarer training and skills today to support high-quality, decent green maritime jobs of the future – including in Africa.”

    The Task Force, which recently highlighted opportunities for African seafarers at an event in Ghana, has also published a 10 point action plan to achieve a Just Transition for seafarers in its ‘Mapping a Maritime Just Transition for Seafarers’ position paper.

  • It’s back to school, Good Wish comment

    It’s back to school, Good Wish comment

    Bishop Simon Kieru of Kenya Assemblies of God Nyahururu District has taken a moment to wish students well as they prepare for back to school this week.

    The students have been on a three week first term holiday and will now be embarking on the second term.

    Bishop Kieru took the moment to call for a multisectoral approach to improve education standards.

    “Education matters shouldn’t be left to the teacher alone. All of us have a role to play, whether you are a parent or a guardian.” Bishop Kieru noted.

    The Bishop also highlighted the need to continue to pray for the children while at the same time providing them with the much needed spiritual nourishment so as to avoid them being lured into unGodly ways.

  • Wakili Njeri Maina Prioritizes on Education

    Wakili Njeri Maina Prioritizes on Education

    Kirinyaga woman representative the Honorable Wakili Njeri Maina has demonstrated keen interest in matters education in her county.

    She notes,

    “TUPANGE KESHO PROGRAM.

    On Saturday 6th May 2023, my office issued bursaries and scholarships to over 500 orphans, specially abled children and children from underprivileged families across Kirinyaga.

    I was in the company of Baragwi MCA Hon. David Mathenge. The County Commissioner, area DCC and local administration officials were also present.

    I want to commend our National Government Affirmative Action Fund coordinator and his commitee for a job well executed.

    I also want to thank my young office team for the support in ensuring that today was a success.

    Some of the most needy children will be absorbed into our already active TUPANGE KESHO full scholarship program so that we can ensure we support them and inculcate them into our mentorship program.

    I want to thank the great people of Kirinyaga county for their continued love and support.”

  • Sauti Sol confirmed to perform at the 2nd edition of the Stanbic Yetu Festival

    Sauti Sol confirmed to perform at the 2nd edition of the Stanbic Yetu Festival

    Stanbic Bank and Radio Africa Group are delighted to announce that the award-winning Kenyan band, Sauti Sol, will be the Kenyan artists’ headline act at the upcoming Stanbic Yetu Festival that will take place at the Uhuru Gardens in Nairobi on Saturday, June 10th, 2023.

    The Afro-pop band of the Sura Yako fame will entertain fans with an array of music from their 5 albums and 1 EP, which were well-received locally and worldwide. In 2021, Sauti Sol received a Certificate of recognition from the Recording Academy for their role in making Burna Boy’s album Twice as Tall which won the Grammy Award for Best Global Music Album.

    “We are excited to have Sauti Sol perform at the upcoming 2nd Edition of the Stanbic Yetu Festival, they will most definitely help create a soulful and unforgettable musical experience for Kenyans and beyond,” said Lilian Onyach, Head Consumer and High-Net Worth and Ag. Head of Brand and Marketing.

    While commenting on the choice of venue, Lilian said, “Uhuru Gardens, which is the event location, was a well thought out and deliberate choice for us as it aligns with our purpose which is ‘Kenya is our Home, we drive her Growth’. Therefore, we want everyone to come to enjoy the music, acknowledge Kenya’s successes, and appreciate our Kenyan heritage. As we know, Uhuru Gardens was officially declared a National Monument in 1966 and is undergoing a massive transformation. The monuments and museum are not yet open to the public, however, Stanbic Yetu Festival audiences will get a slight glimpse of the magnificent grounds.”

    The event organiser, Radio Africa Events said that Uhuru Gardens is now a National Monument and Museum with a public arena on the sprawling 68 acres piece of land in Lang’ata, 15 minutes from Nairobi city centre. It will be  Kenya’s largest memorial park, honouring heroes, showcasing history and attracting commerce and conventioneers. The Gardens is under the management of the Kenya Defence Forces, therefore promising adequate and high-level security for the music lovers who plan to attend the Stanbic Yetu Festival.

    Stanbic Bank also shares a deep heritage in Kenya with a history spanning over 111, and is therefore deeply committed to promoting Kenyan landmarks like the Uhuru Gardens including Kenya’s arts and music industry. The bank believes in celebrating Kenya’s homegrown talent and contributing to the growth of the entertainment industry. This, in turn, helps to boost the country’s economy and create more opportunities for Kenyans.

    Stanbic Yetu Festival aims to showcase the power of music to connect people and to bring to life Stanbic Bank’s brand promise “IT CAN BE”, bringing possibilities to life, by creating a truly magical live musical experience for Kenyans.

    Tickets for the Stanbic Yetu Festival are available for purchase at www.ticketyetu.com. For updates, follow us on @StanbicKE across social media pages Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram and the Stanbic Bank website www.stanbicbank.co.ke.

  • LG’s 2023 OLED Evo Series Recognized for Reducing Plastic Use in New Sustainable TV Design

    LG’s 2023 OLED Evo Series Recognized for Reducing Plastic Use in New Sustainable TV Design

    ·         With the new fibre materials, the LG OLED evo series TVs require only 40 per cent of the plastic that is used in LCD TVs of the same screen size.

    ·         LG has effectively curbed its plastic use by 20,000 tons this year and is expected that LG will achieve a waste plastic recycling effect amounting to 3,200 tons yearly, regarding TV products alone

    LG Electronics 2023 OLED evo series TVs have been certified as environment friendly, receiving certifications for Reducing CO21 and Measured CO22 pointing to LG’s ongoing environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) efforts for plastic waste reduction.

     

    The certification, received for the third year in a row was issued by Carbon Trust and the Société Générale de Surveillance SA (SGS), the former being a global climate consultancy created to accelerate the move to a ‘Net Zero’ future, while SGS is the leading global testing organization dedicated to certifying environmentally sustainable products. Both institutions inspected the entire 2023 OLED evo series product stage from production and delivery to disposal.

     

    Commenting on the recognition, LG Electronics Home Entertainment Company’s Product Development Division lead Baik Sun-pil noted that the product boasts lighter weight, and stronger durability, applying composite Fibre material and metal.

     

    “These materials contribute to less plastic use, with the LG OLED evo series TVs requiring only 40 per cent of the plastic that is used in LCD TVs of the same screen size. Thanks to these efforts, LG has effectively curbed its plastic use by 20,000 tons this year. Besides, the product is designed this way to ensure viewers can enjoy immersive viewing experiences while reducing impact in all production stages for a greener, healthier environment at the same time. As a company, we commit to continue to pursue a broad range of ESG initiatives and responsible practices, as the firm leader of the OLED TV market.” Said Baik Sun-pil

     

    Thanks to the composite fibre material, select models from the latest OLED evo series are around 20 per cent lighter than an LCD TV of the same screen size, contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions in transit.

     

    Additionally, the back cover of LG OLED evo models, QNED TVs and NanoCell TVs released in 2023 are completed with recycled plastic material which uses more than 30 per cent of used plastic. With such efforts, it is expected that LG will achieve a waste plastic recycling effect amounting to 3,200 tons yearly, regarding TV products alone.

     

    LG OLED TVs are also made with fewer components than conventional LCD TVs. The smaller number of parts required for each LG OLED product is a result of the TVs’ unique, self-lit display technology, which removes the need for a separate backlighting structure. A reduced parts count also means fewer resources used per unit, as well as less plastic and e-waste to contend with at the end of the TVs’ operational life.

    Since its initial launch in 2013, LG OLED has continuously raised the industry bar, introducing pioneering display technologies such as OLED evo and groundbreaking form factors including the world’s first rollable TV, LG SIGNATURE OLED R, as well as the bendable LG OLED Flex.

    This year, which marks the 10th anniversary of LG OLED, sees several new additions to LG’s diverse lineup of self-lit TVs, headlined by the stunning models from the 2023 OLED evo series. LG OLED evo series TVs are currently available in 125 countries worldwide.

    LG has earned a place in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index (DJSI World) for 11 consecutive years and has received the ‘Comprehensive A grade’ from the ESG Evaluation and Rating Announcement of Korea ESG Standards Institute (KCGS) for 2 consecutive years.

  • COCA-COLA Rewards Seventh Winner With A Year’s Worth Of Food Shopping

    COCA-COLA Rewards Seventh Winner With A Year’s Worth Of Food Shopping

    The Coca-Cola system in Kenya awarded the seventh winner with a year’s worth of food shopping in Nairobi.

    Zaccheus Ngereso, a Kibera resident in Nairobi was announced as the winner in the ongoing promotion.

    Speaking at the award ceremony, Zaccheus Ngereso said, “This is important to me, together with my family and  those that I serve. I am a pastor by profession, and you know this involves a lot of hosting. Before I won I had played this game a couple of times and even in the previous years. I would urge my fellow Kenyans not to give up when they have not emerged a winner in the first attempt, their time is coming.”

    The campaign, which runs for 12 weeks, offers consumers a chance to win over 50 million Kenya Shillings worth of prizes, including cash (mobile money), airtime, and shopping vouchers.

    To participate, consumers need to buy a 1L, 1.25L or 2L bottle of Coca-Cola, Fanta, or Sprite and check under the green cap for a code. They will then need to send an SMS with the unique code found under the green cap to 40111 for a chance to win instant prizes and be entered into a draw for more prizes. The SMS to 40111 is free.

    In addition to the grand prize of a year’s worth of food shopping other prizes include instant cash, airtime and shopping vouchers, enabling consumers to share meal moments with their loved ones. The promotion seeks to inspire Kenyans to continue enjoying meal moments together with a Coca-Cola.

    Grand prize winners will be contacted through a dedicated customer care number to be advised on their winnings. To take part in the competition, consumers must be eighteen years and above and registered users of Safaricom, Airtel & Telkom.

  • Two defrauders using unregistered company arrested

    Two defrauders using unregistered company arrested

    Two miscreants who were working in cahoot with a notorious gang and who unsuccessfully tried to defraud using unregistered company are under the police radar.

    Peter Onyango and Kelvin Otieno are on the run and are believed to be the masterminds of the crime.

    Peter runs Pivot Point Freight Forwarders and after the agreement Sadegh was introduced to three companies that would allegedly actualize the transaction. They included Newline Logistics Limited headed by a CEO only known as Mark together with his partner Calvin Ngotho whose real name was later discovered to be Kelvin Mwaura Ngotho.

    The other two were Oriex International Cargo Freight and Royal Ultra Vault Limited.

    However Sadegh became suspicious that all was not well after failed delivery of the consignment on the agreed upon date before he rushed to detectives for assistance. This led to arrest of three suspects , recovery of a Steyr Pistol and 103 rounds of 9mm ammunition and a firearm.

  • Improve security budget sector players dire urge 

    Improve security budget sector players dire urge 

    Sheer Logic Management consultants receiving award, background screening company of the year at Nairobi Security Expo
    Sheer Logic Management consultants receiving award, background screening company of the year at Nairobi Security Expo

    Security is a very paramount aspect in any establishment be it a high end office, a high-rise building a commercial outlet or even your everyday retail shopping centre.

    In light of this, a security expert with the reknown Sheer Logistic Management Consultants firm, Mr Philip Mwendwa Harrison took a moment to advise Kenyans on the need to accord security the importance and prominence it deserves.

    Speaking to this writer on the sidelines of Fingo Ecobank Digital launch at the Sarit Centre, Mr Harrison said that Sheer Logic Management Consultant Limited is a firm that offers end to end HR solutions including employee background check services, recruitment, training and labor outsourcing. The company has offices in Nairobi, Mombasa, Uganda and Rwanda. The company was won an award in the category of Outstanding Background Screening Company in the just concluded Nairobi Security Expo 2023.

    He pointed out that one of the security challenges with establishments that are coming up is that management do not engage professionals when it comes to matters of security risk management and audit.

    He said that many organizations sacrifice quality on the altar of cost which can negatively affect the name and the services you offer. So he advised that organizations need to invest in security and improve the budget for the same for smooth service delivery.

  • National Assembly Committee on Administration and Internal Affairs conducted a fact-finding visit to Shakahola

    National Assembly Committee on Administration and Internal Affairs conducted a fact-finding visit to Shakahola

    The National Assembly Committee on Administration and Internal Affairs has conducted a fact-finding visit to Shakahola area in Kilifi County to establish facts and circumstances surrounding the mass killings of people in incident allegedly linked to a religious cult associated with Good News International Church.

    The Committee chaired by Hon. Gabriel Tongiyo visited the scene of the incident and met with the Mr. Josephat Biwott, the Kilifi County Commissioner and Mrs. Rhoda Onyancha, Coast Regional Commissioner and representatives from County Security teams to gather information.

    During the briefing, the Lawmakers requested information on the organization and execution of the crime, the number of deaths confirmed by the police, the number of missing persons, the process of identifying the victims, and the measures put in place to crackdown on cultic outfits in the county.

    Members of the Committee also sought information on the profile of Mr. Paul Mackenzie Nthenge, the alleged cult leader, and other associates, as well as the remedial actions taken by the government and assistance offered to affected families.

    Hon. Gabriel Tongoyo expressed his concerns, stating, “Given the magnitude of this issue, we must ensure that all those involved are held accountable and that we prevent such incidents from happening in the future. It is our responsibility to protect our citizens, and we must do everything in our power to achieve that.”

    In addition, the Committee raised concerns about the failed attempts to prosecute Pastor Paul Mackenzie for crimes allegedly associated with him since 2017. The Committee also sought to meet separately with the area assistant chief/chief, elders, and locals.

    Details provided by the County Criminal Investigation Officer, the Regional Criminal Investigation Officer, and County Security teams revealed that Mackenzie, a driver from Malindi, created his own church, Good News International, in 2003.

    Hon. Caroline Ngelechi sought clarification on the number of branches of the church that had been established and the clergy that served alongside the accused.

    In response representatives from the County Security team revelead that as part of their investigation they had written to the Registrar to establish the number of established branches of the church.

    Legislators further undertook a visit to Shakahola area accompanied by the County Commissioner, Regional County Commissioner, County Criminal Investigation Officer, the Regional Criminal Investigation Officer, County Security teams and Red Cross Society Representatives.

    While engaging with the Committee Mr. Josephat Biwott admitted, ” we are still in the preliminary investigations stage. The County Security Teams have been working day and night on the case.The investigation into the cult led by Mr. Paul Mackenzie Nthenge is ongoing, with more information expected to be revealed in due course.”

    While addressing the media, Hon. Tongoyo stated that “this is a matter of great concern to us as a Committee and to the nation as a whole and that is why we are here.”

    Members of the Committee on Administration and Internal Affairs also considered the welfare of officers, with regard to resource mobilization and the welfare of the victims and survivors.

    The Committee is expected to continue its investigations into the matter in accordance with it’s mandate.

    Committee members on Administration and Internal Affairs present during the fact- finding visit are Hon Gabriel Tongoyo, Hon Dido Rasso, Hon. Rozaah Buyu, Hon Oku Kaunya, Hon. Mburu Kahangara, Hon Peter Kaluma and Hon. Caroline Ng’elechei.

  • The Nation Mourns the Death of Freedom Icon

    The Nation Mourns the Death of Freedom Icon

    Kenya was Friday thrown into mourning following the death of Mukami Kimathi who was a freedom fighter and the widow of Field Marshal Dedan Kimathi.

    His excellency the President Dr William Ruto led the Nation in Mourning the heroine.

    “We have received the saddening news of the death of Mukami Kimathi, a celebrated heroine of our nation’s struggle for independence.

    Mama Mukami Kimathi courageously withstood the brutality of colonial oppression, proudly wore the scars of the battle and bore the terrible losses of war with admirable fortitude.

    She was a legendary fighter in her own right and the wife of the legend, Dedan Waciuri Kimathi, who was captured, tried, and executed by the colonial state.

    After winning the war for independence, Mama Mukami was left behind to fend for her children in the absence of Field Marshall Kimathi. In her characteristic way, she also won this battle.

    Mukami Kimathi was also a steadfast patriot and well-known champion for national unity who inspired many Kenyans of all ages to cherish our country and stand ready to defend our values.

    On behalf of my family and the people of Kenya, I convey my condolences to the family of our departed heroine, Mukami Kimathi. I pray that the Almighty God grants you his divine solace at this time of sorrow.

    We shall honour her memory and treasure her legacy. May God rest her soul in everlasting peace.”