Category: POPULAR

  • CS Wahome announces start of Implementation of Horn of Africa Ground Water for Resilience Program

    CS Wahome announces start of Implementation of Horn of Africa Ground Water for Resilience Program

    The Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation has commenced the implementation of the Horn of Africa; Groundwater for Resilience Project (GW4RP) whose objective is to increase the sustainable access and management of groundwater in the Horn of Africa borderlands against the effects of recurrent drought.

    The GW4RP is a programme that will be implemented with the Ministry in partnership with the World Bank Group (WBG) targeting the ASAL five Counties of Wajir, Mandera, Turkana, Marsabit and Garissa.

    Speaking during the official launch of the commencement of the programme from a Nairobi Hotel at a function attended by stakeholders in the programme, Water, Sanitation and Irrigation Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome said that the project that will cost an upward of USD 135 Million will be disbursed within 6 years period running from 2022 to 2027.

    ‘This will benefit approximately 1.5 million people in the beneficiary Counties with several intergrated projects comprising of water resource management, water services and sanitation services,’ CS Wahome said.

    She assured that no shilling will be lost in the whole process warning that contractors that will be involved in any malpractice will be blacklisted.

    County Govenors from the affected areas who were present asked for the speedy implementation of the project citing that the ongoing severe drought has hit hard in the Northern Kenya region leading to massive loss of livestock and lives.

    They included Mandera’s Mohamed Adan Khalif, Wajir’s Ahmed Abdullahi, Garissa’s Nathif Jama and Marsabit’s Mohamud Mohamed Ali.

    The project is being implemented in phases with Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia participating in phase 1. IGAD is implemenmting the regional component through joint study of transboundary aquifers and capacity building.

    The programme will have 4 components which includes delivering inclusive groundwater services to priority areas, generating groundwater information and strenghtening regional groundwater institutions, project management and lastly emergency contigency response.

    The expected key outputs of the project will see more that 400 boheholes rehabilitated, groundwater management and development startegy formulated, transboundary water policy and mainstream operation and maintanence of borehole water supplies.

    Other outputs will see to it that water institutions handling groundwater capacity are built and aquifer management and development plans are developed.

  • Nokia T10 brings portable power

    Nokia T10 brings portable power

    HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, today announces the second Nokia tablet, Nokia T10, joining its in-demand tablet range. Engineered to last longer through a combination of signature durability, frequent security updates and guaranteed Android software upgrades, with Android 12 right out of the box. Nokia T10 delivers winning longevity in a compact design, making it the ideal choice for families, whether at home or on the move.

    Adam Ferguson, Head of Product Marketing at HMD Global: “We entered the tablet category last October with the Nokia T20 and have been excited and encouraged by the positive feedback our fans and users have given us. We’re pleased to launch Nokia T10 which delivers the same longevity and durability that made the T20 popular, but in a more compact design to make it even more versatile.”

     

    Small enough for travel, big enough for daily entertainment

    Nokia T10 features a bright 8” HD display and stereo speakers with OZO playback, making for clear sound and a detailed picture no matter where you use it. Whether that’s taking video calls from home or streaming your favourite TV shows together on the move, Nokia T10 is a great portable companion.

    It also comes with a second screen feature to make Nokia T10 an expansion of your PC display, providing a convenient way to maximise productivity[2] when an important task needs finishing.

    Nokia T10 comes with Google Entertainment Space – a one-stop home for content where subscription services are consolidated. There is no more hopping between apps to find something to stream, read or play with Nokia T10 so you can do more of what you love.

     

    Work, learn and play with confidence
    Nokia T10 is ideal for the whole family. It comes with Google Kids Space, which features a library of content perfect for little ones, including apps, games, books and videos which they can use to explore, learn and discover.

    Google Kids Space works with the Family Link app from Google, allowing you to guide your kids’ experience by managing content, setting screen time limits, and more, all from your own device.

    Face unlock adds a layer of personalised security to Nokia T10, making personal data accessible with just a glance. Mask Mode means you can also unlock Nokia T10 while wearing a face covering.

    Built to be re-gifted without a “second-hand” feel

    Nokia T10 stays up to date and secure for longer thanks to three versions of Android and three years of monthly security updates[3]. The solid, durable unibody polymer design made with a nano-textured finish helps hide the appearance of scratches, so your tablet looks new for longer. Hand it down to younger family members when it’s time for a new device and it will still look fresh. A smooth, matt ceramic pearl coating shifts in colour depending on lighting conditions, making for a premium look at an affordable price point.

    Alongside Nokia T10 launches Nokia Flip Cover to complement its functionality. A multi-functional case which protects Nokia T10’s display when not in use and doubles as a stand – ideal for streaming those must-see TV shows while lounging on the sofa or getting stuck into arts and crafts with the kids.

    Pricing and availability

    • Nokia T10 (LTE) is available in Kenya starting 1st February 2023 in Oceanic Blue option starting from Sh19,999.00.
  • Newest MD Welcomes Appointment

    Newest MD Welcomes Appointment

    June Chepkemei is the newest Managing Director in town. June, a former Manager of Marketing and Corporate Communications at Konza Technopolis could not hide her joy whilst welcoming the prestigious appointment.

    “Firstly I’d like to say that I’m extremely honored to be entrusted with this task. I’m ready to work with synergy in a bid to execute the mandate and more so deliver on the critical pillar of attracting investors in the country to the tune of the Ksh 10 Billion US Dollars this year alone. We are also ready to position our country as a hub and gateway to the east Africa region
    Kenya is the largest and the most advanced economy in East and Central Africa; with strong growth prospects supported by an emerging, urban middle class and an increasing appetite for high-value goods and services.
    The dominant economy in the East Africa Community, contributing to more than 50% of the region’s GDP.

    Kenya is open for business to well-positioned companies with strategic objectives of tapping into the growing potential of emerging markets in East and Central Africa.

  • Gilbeys Mixed Berries Launches Mixed and Matched Pinknic Event

    Gilbeys Mixed Berries Launches Mixed and Matched Pinknic Event

    East African Breweries Limited (EABL), under their innovation brand Gilbeys Mixed Berries hosted their first edition of the Gilbey’s Mixed Berries Mixed and Matched Pinknic party, at Absa Sports Club.

    The day to night time event saw a huge turnout of consumers that were entertained by artists such as Bien, Chris Kaiga, Karun, Brandy, DJ Pierra, DJ Brownskin, DJ Redbone, DJ Linsey, Sir M, DJ Pierra and Kaneda.

    Revellers show up dressed with shades of pink sticking with the theme and set up of the event that was elegant and stylish.

    KBL innovations manager, Shirlyn Ndumbu, stated that the first edition of the Gilbey’s Mixed Berries Mixed and Matched Pinknic party comes at a time when our consumers are looking for memorable experiences and occasions to celebrate with their friends. “This will be the first of a series of events that we have planned across the country and calendar year. Sticking to its Gilbey’s tagline Open Good Times we will be showcasing music, games and fashion that our gin lovers will enjoy, accompanied with amazing cocktail drinks from our Diageo certified mixologists, “she added.

    Gilbey’s Gin is a segment leader in the gin category in Kenya hence KBL is looking to increase its momentum with the new variant of its berries flavor. Gilbey’s gin is trusted by consumers for its liquid authenticity and quality that can be shared amongst friends.

    Gilbeys Mixed berries is one of the recently introduced innovation brands that has seen Kenya Breweries invest heavily in as it seeks to address consumers’ needs and wants offering them a wide variety of brands to choose from.

     The flavored gin sits in the bottle with a refreshing pink color and is best enjoyed with poured with tonic, bringing out the refreshing mixed berry fruit. It has a pink chevron logo that distinguishes it from the Gilbeys original pack.

    It is available in 250ml, 350ml and 750ml packs, that has a recommended retail price point of KES 500/-, 700/- and 1460/- respectively thus meeting the pricing needs of each consumer segment. It has an ABV of 37.7%.

    Customers only needed to purchase a bottle of Gilbeys Mixed berries from thebar.ke or Ticketsasa , to receive a ticket and a 750ml bottle at the event.

  • Enwealth Fanisi program hits new milestone in supporting underprivileged students

    Enwealth Fanisi program hits new milestone in supporting underprivileged students

    Enwealth Fanisi Program, the education scholarships initiative run by Enwealth Financial Services, has this year marked a new milestone announcing over 300 students fully sponsored for their high school education since its inception in 2012.

    During this period, the company has supported needy and underprivileged students financially and through impactful mentorship to get through secondary. Enwealth Fanisi announced there will be 100 percent transition rate to institutions of higher learning for 2022 candidates. Currently, more than 40 students are in universities across the country, the majority of whom are undertaking Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) courses while others have joined the job market.

    Enwealth Financial Services Director, Sharon Kisire commented during this year’s scholarship award ceremony held at Enwealth Business Center in Nairobi. Since its inception, the Enwealth Fanisi program has disbursed over KES 35 million making a lifetime impact on the students’ lives, and the effects have trickled down to their families, and improved society.

     “We believe that education is the foundation for all forms of development and a catalyst for growth and success in life. We are committed to providing education but we also want to change the lives of our beneficiaries. Students will not only benefit financially in terms of paid school fees but we also equip them with essential life and social skills to mold them into all-rounded people in society” Director Sharon Kisire added.

    Fifty-five students have been awarded full high school scholarships this year with a commitment from the company to increase the numbers in coming years to meet the needs of society as witnessed through the high number of applicants. The program prioritizes orphaned or abandoned children, or whose either or both parents are living with HIV/AIDS.

    Also speaking during the event, Ian Gichui, a former beneficiary who will be joining the university: “I am greatly indebted to Enwealth. The program’s mentorship enabled me to stay focused on my studies instead of concentrating on the issues at home. They equipped me with the skills to become a better person and change the situation back home”.

  • Middle East Energy to bring together over 170 countries for its 48th Edition Centred on Global Energy Transition

    Middle East Energy to bring together over 170 countries for its 48th Edition Centred on Global Energy Transition

    Middle East Energy, the leading energy industry event in the MEA region, will be making its anticipated return to Dubai World Trade Centre on 7 – 9 March 2023 to guide energy transition conversations across the globe. Organised by Informa Markets, the leading global exhibitions organiser, it is set to bring together buyers and sellers from across different countries to explore the latest advancements in energy products and solutions.

    The 48th edition will provide opportunities to network with international energy suppliers, discover products and solutions that are changing the energy landscape, and build long-lasting business relationships.

    Ade Yesufu, Exhibition Manager, Middle East Energy, said, “Over the years, Middle East Energy has supported the global energy community to find solutions that empower the rapid acceleration of electricity consumption across the Middle East and other parts of the world. This year, the aim is to advance the conversations in light of the current global reality and changes in the energy industry. This event also brings together the highest level of decision-makers and international partners to connect and discover innovative products and solutions that can deliver cleaner energy and supply sustainable power.

    With over 800 exhibiting companies representing 170 countries and a 20,000+ global audience, participants will explore insights on the future of alternative energy solutions that will help in delivering more efficient and effective power systems. This edition of Middle East Energy will focus on five key product sections that are leading the way in the energy transition: Smart Solutions, Renewable & Clean Energy, Backup Generators & Critical Power, Transmission & Distribution, and Energy Consumption & Management.

    Middle East Energy will also feature strategic conferences and content arenas focusing on the latest technologies and products to provide a platform for knowledge sharing, support relationship building, and uncover solutions to some of the most pressing challenges posed by the energy transition. These include CEO roundtables, technical sessions, and the Intersolar Conference which will bring together global policymakers, utilities, developers, financiers, and technology leaders across three days to create the blueprint for a successful energy transition across the Middle East and Africa.

     

    Confirmed panellists include:

     

    • Licypriya Kangujam, a 11-year-old climate activist.
    • Raphael Mworia, Commercial Director, KETRACO – Kenya Electricity Transmission Company Ltd
    • Abraham Serem, Acting Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, KenGen – Kenya Electricity Generating Company
    • Abdulaziz Al Naim, CEO, Saudi Power Company
    • Dr Joseph Oketch, Director – Electricity and Renewable Energy, Energy & Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Kenya
    • HE Mrs Leila Benali, Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Kingdom of Morocco
    • Azhar Hussain, Principal Investment Officer, International Finance Corporation

    Other conferences include The Technical Seminar, an interactive forum for the world’s leading energy experts and technical minds to discuss and explore the innovations and technologies driving the energy transition and Intersolar Middle East, a gathering of solar and renewable energy industry professionals in the MEA region to discuss the transformative dynamics of renewable energies around the world.

    The event is supported by numerous trade associations, governmental agencies, and industry partners such as Alfanar as the Diamond sponsor; Baudouin and Riyadh Cables Group as Platinum sponsors; Ducab, LTC Group, and Bahra Electric as Gold sponsors; Riello UPS as a Silver sponsor and Eaton as Technology Partner. For more information, please visit https://www.middleeast-energy.com/en/home.html

  • Kenya’s economy projected to slow down at 5% in 2023

    Kenya’s economy projected to slow down at 5% in 2023

    Kenya’s economy is expected to remain subdued in 2023, growing at a projected 5%, pulled down by a persistent rise in commodity prices, global events and a high risk of debt distress.

    However, there is an opportunity for the economy to register a remarkable upward trend if the government focuses more on fiscal consolidation efforts that include cutting back on non-priority expenditures to increase investment and help tame runaway inflation.

    The findings were revealed in a report titled Macro-Fiscal Analytic Snapshot 2022/23,released by the Institute of Public Finance (IPF) in collaboration with the Oxford Policy Management (OPM).

    The report also indicates that the deferment of fiscal consolidation in 2020 and 2021 made it difficult for the country to attain the necessary economic stability and resulted in the move from “medium: to “high risk” of debt distress.

    Speaking during the official launch of the report, James Muraguri, the Chief Executive Officer of IPF noted that while there have been efforts by the current government to tighten its fiscal policy, more needs to be done in terms of cushioning Kenyans against the runaway inflation, effects of the Russian-Ukraine war and the depreciating value of the Kenyan shilling against the US Dollar.

    “The last two years saw the government set revenue and fiscal deficit targets that were overly ambitious. With limited buffers against external shocks, the government is finding itself in a tight spot as it tries to navigate the global tightening of the monetary policy and rising debt interest payments. With this in mind, we expect a change in policy direction focusing more on fiscal policy coordination to address surging price levels, cushion citizens facing hunger and starvation and the successful distribution of subsidized fertilizer during the upcoming long rains,” Mr. Muraguri said.

    Institute of Public Finance (IPF) Chief Executive Officer, James Muraguri (left) with IPF Country Lead & Head of Programs, Daniel Ndirangu and IPF Head of Research, Ruth Kendagor, display the Kenya Economy Macro-Fiscal Analytic Report. The report notes that Kenya’s economy will remain subdued in 2023, growing at a projected 5%.

    On donor support, the report notes that it has been on a fluctuating trend between 2016 and 2020. While there was an increase in total Official development assistance (ODA) disbursement in the years 2017, 2019, and 2020, of 12%, 21%, and 24%, respectively, the increase was because of expanded assistance to the education sector, health sector, WASH, production, and the humanitarian sector. However, there has been a decline in support for the economic infrastructure and services sector post-pandemic, partly because of a change in commitment from the financing partners.

    Toward this end, there is a need for the government to shift from donor reliance and to develop a domestic resource mobilisation strategy to bridge the budget gaps currently being witnessed. Lower borrowing should also create space for private sector credit and higher investment in health, agriculture and education sectors which are critical pillars for long-term economic growth.

    The Institute of Public Finance (IPF) also reckons that some of the key focus areas likely to shape economic performance during the current budget cycle include; The need to ease fiscal pressure through budgetary consolidation, Harmonisation of revenue measures, Level of debt distress, Support to the agriculture sector, Reorganization of the health budgets as well as the performance of the County Governments.

    “Our projections point to some pain for the local Mwananchi especially in the shorter term as the government continues to implement its macro-stability agenda. Sustained poverty reduction and growth over the next few years is possible if the government makes good its intentions to support the manufacturing and export sectors,” Mr. Muraguri added.

  • Bishop Kieru Blesses Students This back to school week

    Bishop Kieru Blesses Students This back to school week

    Kenya Assemblies of God Nyahururu District Bishop Simon Kieru has offered special blessings to students this back to school week.
    Bishop Kieru took a moment to pray for God’s immeasurable blessings to be upon the students as they prepare to resume classes.
    “I take this opportunity to wish them journey mercies do that they can go and learn. Education is key and is the only inheritance the children can acquire in this day and age. Let them also understand that they are there in the school for a short time so they ought to utilise they stay there constructively. Let them maximise their days in school and I urge them to have determination and discipline. This is what will help them achieve what they are in pursuit for.’
    Bishop Kieru also urged the students to avoid the prohibited substances and practices such as drug abuse and negative peer pressure and distance themselves from those who mislead them.

  • Mang’u High School Receives Boost to Scale Aviation Studies

    Mang’u High School Receives Boost to Scale Aviation Studies

    KCB Bank Kenya has partnered with Mang’u High School to scale its aviation training programme in what will see hundreds of students benefit in the next five years.

    KCB will facilitate the equipping of the School’s aviation center, providing the students with hands-on experience in aviation and prepare them for careers in the aviation industry.

    Kenya Airways has donated an aircraft—Boeing 737-700—to the school and KCB will facilitate its transfer from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to the Thika based facility and support in kitting the aviation center. The Bank has put in KShs.5 million towards the project.

    “KCB remains committed in supporting the youth agenda and that includes access to skills development, business development support and financing. We believe that a strong investment in our youth today is a recipe for economic growth. Through this sponsorship, our goal is to inspire students to take up a career in the aviation sector with a long-term goal of mainstreaming it in our curriculum.” Said KCB Group CEO Paul Russo while making the donation.

    The programme is expected to train a critical mass of future air traffic controllers, aircraft engineers, pilots among others.

    Mang’u High School is one of the few schools in Kenya that offer aviation training, focusing on technical skills such as propulsion, thermodynamics, & meteorology. The aviation students undertake most of their studies at Wilson Airport & Moi Air Base in Eastleigh.

    “We are incredibly grateful for the support we have received from KCB and other organisations. We believe that a strong aviation program is essential for preparing students for the future in this field, ” said Mang’u High School Board of Management Chairman, Mr. Anthony Maina Mithanga.

    Government statistics show that Kenya has a deficit of over 2000 pilots and has an ambition of training at least 800 annually in the next five years.

  • Speaker Kingi Recalls Senate For Special Sitting

    Speaker Kingi Recalls Senate For Special Sitting

    Senate Speaker Amason Kingi. Photo/File.
    Senate speaker Amason Kingi has recalled the House for a special sitting on Thursday, January 19, 2023.

    Through a gazette notice dated January, 17, Kingi said that the sittings shall be held at the Senate Chamber at the Main Parliament Buildings in two sessions.

    The first session will run from 10.00 a.m to 12.30 p.m and the afternoon sitting shall be held from 2:30 p.m until the House business comes to a close.

    Speaker Kingi said that the business to be transacted will be the swearing-in of William Kisang who won the Elgeyo Marakwet senate seat in the January 5, by-election.

    The second one will be the consideration of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2022 (National Assembly Bills No. 49 of 2022).

    The sitting shall then be adjourned until Tuesday, February, 14 when the House shall be resuming its normal sessions.