East Africa Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture (EACCIA) President, Richard Ngatia, has partnered with the European Business Institute in Luxembourg to launch a groundbreaking initiative. The plan aims to issue 28,000 scholarships worth nearly Ksh 4 billion to address the financial literacy gap faced by small and micro enterprises in East Africa.
The partnership will distribute a minimum of 2,000 scholarships to each member of the East Africa Community, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Zanzibar, DRC Congo, South Sudan, and Somalia. With each scholarship valued at 740 Euros (Ksh 130,000), this collaboration represents a historic investment of Ksh 3.6 billion.
The scholarships will cover a three-month certificate course, running from January to March, offering subjects such as Business Management, Business Finance, Applied Blockchain Technology, Artificial Intelligence Integration, Micro and Macro Economics, Managerial Accounting, Entrepreneurship, and Communication.
President Ngatia encourages entrepreneurs, particularly the youth, to seize this opportunity and apply immediately. The scholarships aim to enhance human capital in the region, leading to improved business management and sustainability.
To streamline the process, the EACCIA and the European Business Institute will ensure a smooth transition from scholarship confirmation to course enrollment through designated contact persons in each of the 14 East African countries participating in the program.
In addition to expanding its membership and outreach beyond East Africa, the EACCIA aims to strengthen SMEs and other informal sectors in the region. The organization also plans to provide capacity-building interventions to national chambers of commerce.
The scholarships, effective immediately, mark a significant step towards improving financial literacy and promoting a savings culture in the region. The EACCIA and the European Business Institute express their gratitude for the collaboration and dedication to advancing education in East Africa.
With a high percentage of financial illiteracy in the region, this initiative aims to boost savings and investments among households and small and medium businesses. President Ngatia, a member of the World Chamber Federation (WCF) Council, emphasizes the importance of financial literacy in enhancing the region’s economic growth.
This initiative showcases Ngatia’s commitment to empowering businesses through education, building on his successful distribution of scholarships to women in the business chapter of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI).
The EACCIA also seeks to support learning processes through study tours and trade tours, facilitating peer education and knowledge sharing among traders.
The scholarships come at a crucial time, as the Global Financial Literacy Survey reveals a significant lack of financial literacy in the region. By addressing this gap, the initiative aims to foster a better savings culture and drive economic development.
The EACCIA’s dedication to advancing education and empowering businesses is commendable. This collaboration sets a positive example for the region and Africa as a whole.
Mr. Franck Obambi-Ngatse, President Zanduax, at a press conference in Olesereni hotel Nairobi today.
By Benard Mulwa
Captains of industry in digital market place across Africa will now be able to conform to Culture, collaboration and commerce converges seamlessly within the African business ecosystem.
This comes as Zanduax set up a Premier B2B digital market place for Africa, redefining the way business connect and thrive. Mr. Franck Obambi-Ngatse, President Zanduax who is an indigenous from Congo said, “Zanduax” is a word used in northern parts of Congo and Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire) connoting a market place.
In a statement to the press during the launch of Zanduax, One Africa one market, Mr. Franck Obambi-Ngatse said this will bridge the gap between the manufacturers, importers, suppliers and famers, increasing the number of stake holders in to the platform.
Business acumen in this platform is able to register as a merchant, list their items, sell, fulfill their orders and get paid instantly.
The Association of Kenya Suppliers CEO Ismail Bett said this plat form will mitigate challenges of unfair business practices and late payments and in addition ensure safe and secure online payments, “this will enhance security in terms of delivery of goods, trust verses payments” adding that, there are challenges of adoption of the platform within the African setup especially when applying money. However, there is an uptake in the young generation who quick to interact and engage with.
Regulatory issues by the government is a realization that is shaping the ecommerce which is critical in linkage to the global market. Currently the government is reviewing key communication Act and implementing policies to increase trust by the consumers, according to the Director Postal and telecommunication Authority Kenya (CAK) Matano Ndaro, said, this is rife with modern cutting edge solutions in payment systems administered by Banks, “this will increase trust, breaking the barriers, enhance collaboration and inclusivity from Large and medium sized business” he said adding that most consumers luck the skills when it comes to ecommerce, which is not fully realized.
Mr. Franck Obambi-Ngatse, President Zanduax observed that the first stages of evolution of mankind, which is believed to have developed from earlier forms during the history of the earth, the only way mitigate poverty was to create wealth by doing business and African continent of poor because it does not do business to Africa.
The new Showmax has arrived to change the game for streaming in Africa.
Ten months after MultiChoice, Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky announced a joint streaming vision for Africa, the new Showmax is here, featuring a refreshed brand and a massive content lineup, all delivered on a powerful new streaming platform.
At the heart of the new offering is the world’s first standalone Premier League plan for mobile, with all 380 games offered live on Showmax Premier League for just Ksh 500 a month.
In addition, there are two more Showmax plans available to customers in 44 African countries: Showmax Entertainment on mobile for an unbelievable Ksh 300 a month, as well as the Showmax Entertainment plan, where the monthly price falls from Ksh 760 to Ksh 650 per month.
“There are currently just over 450 million smartphones in the hands of individuals across Africa … and more than 250 million avid football lovers on the continent,” says Marc Jury, CEO of Showmax. “Showmax Premier League is a game-changing product that gives individuals a ticket to the football they love, wherever they are, on the device they always have with them, at a price that’s impossible not to love.”
“Africa is incredibly important to the Premier League and our clubs; 20% of TV audiences on any given matchday come from Africa,” says Richard Masters, Premier League CEO. “We are delighted with this Showmax initiative, which puts the Premier League in your pocket at a new price point so that millions more can enjoy our fantastic competition.”
Core to the success of Showmax’s streaming ambitions in Africa is a new technical platform that is robust and built to scale. With the launch of Showmax, the Peacock streaming platform will be active in more than 70 countries and is continually enhanced by the combined expertise of thousands of engineers. The world-class platform has brought millions of viewers popular events such as Super Bowl LVI, the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 final, the Olympics and WrestleMania 39. On 13 January, Peacock’s exclusive AFC Wild Card Game became the biggest live-streamed event in US history, reaching 27.6 million viewers and a record 16.3 million concurrent devices. In 2023, Comcast won a Technology and Engineering Emmy Award for its sports viewing experiences across Peacock, Sky and Xfinity.
“Peacock’s best-in-class technology platform will deliver a world-class streaming experience to Showmax audiences,” said Patrick Miceli, Executive Vice President & Chief Technology Officer, Direct- to-Consumer & International, NBCUniversal. “The Peacock platform was designed from day one to support both live and on-demand content, including the biggest live sporting events, so we look forward to extending that capability and reliability to the new Showmax.”
Alongside the Premier League, the new Showmax also opens the door to a thrilling entertainment universe spanning a wide range of stars and stories across multiple genres. With no fewer than 21 new Showmax Originals launching in February alone, there will be more than 1 300 hours of Showmax Originals produced in the coming year, representing a significant 150% increase in production output compared to the year before.
Complementing this powerful African content slate is an international offering that will give viewers cause for celebration. As a result of MultiChoice’s partnership with Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky, Showmax is guaranteed an ongoing supply of the world’s most popular titles from the media giant’s renowned brands, including Universal Pictures, Focus Features, NBC, Peacock, DreamWorks Animation and Telemundo. The stellar content lineup includes films like the latest instalment in the hit Fast franchise, Fast X, and Wes Anderson’s comedy-drama Asteroid City; procedural drama series such as NBC’s The Irrational starring Jesse L. Martin; and Peacock original comedy series Killing It, from the creative team behind Brooklyn Nine-Nine, starring Craig Robinson.
Showmax will also continue to draw from the likes of Paramount, including Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning and Halo S2 in February, and HBO, with new seasons of House of the Dragon, The Last of Us, True Detective, and The White Lotus on the way.
Showmax’s content offering is further boosted by its focus on the African market and strengthened by the vast creative and commercial presence already established by MultiChoice. “Nobody understands Africa like we do. Showmax is putting the continent first with a powerful streaming service that will revolutionise streaming in Africa in 2024,” says Calvo Mawela, MultiChoice Group CEO.
With the content and platform providing strong foundations for the new Showmax, ease of access for customers is another key business priority. As the first streaming service in Africa to make mobile downloads possible for offline viewing and the first to launch a mobile-only plan, Showmax has now delivered incredibly competitive new price points, with a growing network of payment options available to customers.
This payment ecosystem is facilitated by Moment, another MultiChoice joint venture partner. Working with more than 200 payment partners such as banks, mobile money providers, retailers and payment schemes, Moment is building the broadest pan-African payments network. In addition, DStv customers will continue to have the option of adding Showmax to their DStv bill each month and benefitting from significant discounts. Showmax will be announcing additional partnerships soon that will offer even more value to customers.
The new Showmax app will become available in app stores from 23 January 2024 onward, as part of a staggered migration process across 44 markets. This is an ongoing process that starts next week and will be completed in February this year. Existing Showmax customers will begin receiving communication with information on how to access the new app this week and by 12 February 2024 the new Showmax will be live in all markets.
About Showmax Showmax, launched in 2015 and available in more than 40 markets across the continent, is a leading African streaming service. It offers a unique combination of original African content, first and exclusive international series, popular movies, premium documentaries and the best kids’ shows, and will soon offer a mobile-only product to watch the Premier League (PL). Showmax is jointly owned by MultiChoice (JSE: MCG), the leading video entertainment platform and biggest producer of content in Africa, and Comcast (NASDAQ: CMCSA), one of the world’s biggest media companies.
About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences.
Konza Technopolis Development Authority’s acting CEO John Paul Okwiri
By Maximilla Wafula
Kenya is set to host the 41st IASP World Conference on Science Parks and Areas of Innovation, IASP 2024 at Konza Technopolis. It will be the first time Kenya is hosting the event in its 41-year history.
The meeting to be held from September 24 to 27, 2024, will discuss the impact of changing demographics on entrepreneurship and technology and explore ways to combat global challenges the world is facing. The conference is expected to bring together experts from science and technology parks and other areas of innovation, technology-based incubators, academia, the public sector, and business to discuss and debate in depth on the latest trends in the industry’s increasingly complex structures for professional innovation support.
Stakeholders of the the 41st IASP World Conference on Science Parks and Areas of Innovation, IASP 2024 to be held at Konza Technopolis in September.
International Association of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation (IASP) is a leading association of innovation ecosystems worldwide.
IASP Global President Ebba Lund Lund called on partners to among others engage and support the conference’s planning and positioning as a key event to look out for in Africa in 2024.
“We invite you to support the conference by way of sponsorship under different categories in kind and financially. Submit papers for presentation at the conference and publishing, nominate their spaces for consideration for IASP technical and cultural visits and mobilise delegates to attend the conference,” she said.
Lund made the remarks during a meeting by the Ministry of ICT and Digital Economy and Konza Technopolis.
Present during the meeting included the CEO of Kenya Space Agency, Hillary Kipkosgey, National Commission for Science and Technology director general Walter Oyawa, CEO of the ICT Authority of Kenya Stanley Kamanguya, PSs Juma Mukhwana (Industrialisation), Hassan Abubakar (Investment Promotion) and Beatrice Inyangala (Higher Education), vice chancellors of public universities, Heads of Missions in Kenya and private sector and development Partners.
Konza, being at the forefront of technological innovation in Africa, has been presented with an opportunity to showcase its cutting-edge technology and innovation ecosystem and demonstrate its crucial role in driving Africa’s digital transformation.
The conference is themed, “Demographics, Entrepreneurship and Technology: Defining the Frontiers of Future Economies.”
The theme was inspired by the rapidly shifting demographics occasioned by technological advancements, climate action and a focus towards Social Development Goals.
“Africa is broadly set to experience significant demographic changes in the coming years, and science parks and innovation districts such as the Konza Technopolis will play a key role in promoting entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic growth,” added Lund.
Key areas of interest for Kenya include the County Technology and Innovations Delivery Services Programme, Coordination of Technology, Innovation and Commercialization Programme, Science, Technology and Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Programme. Ends…
Lawyer Omwanza ombati who is race for Judicial Service Commission is a practitioner in field of law for 20 years and is competent to offer his candidature in Judiciary Service Commission
Omwanza ombati urged the president to cease attacking the judiciary and follow the right procedure , to handle the matter , this comes out after the President Ruto recently attack remarks on Judiciary over Corruption .
Speaking during an exclusive interview with the media lawyer Omwanza ombati said that the constitution of Kenya has created mechanisms of dealing with corruption in the judiciary
“The constitution of Kenya has created mechanisms of dealing with corruption in the judiciary,and the processes ought to be followed if anyone is aggrieved” said ombati
Inclusion he mentioned great objectives under thematic areas that is visible, accountable to the membership and leadership of law society of Kenya and champion for more opportunities for advocates at judiciary
Carolyne Kamende Daudi holding LSK nomination papers with her supporters at the LSK offices
By staff reporter
Carolyne Kamende Daudi on Wednesday filed papers to run to be the 51st president of the Law Society of Kenya.
Kamende who previously served as vice president of LSK said that she is the best placed candidate to replace current president Eric Theuri when elections will be held on February.
Theuri was elected LSK boss after replacing Nelson Havi in March 2020 who was kicked out of the office before the end of his term in 2021.
The term of the president runs for two years.
Other vacant positions in the LSK polls include position of Vice-President, three (3) Representatives of the General Membership of LSK, four (4) Upcountry Representatives, three (3) Nairobi Representatives, one (1) Coast Representative which shall fall vacant on 25 th March, 2024.
Kamende who is a former legal assistant at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda vowed the champion the rights of legal practitioners in Kenya by ensuring that their welfare is enhanced.
“I am the best candidate best of my local and international experience in practicing law,” she said.
The other candidates eying the post of LSK president include current LSK vice president Faith Odhiambo, Harriet Mboche, Peter Wanyama, and Bernard Ngetich.
Kamende contested for the LSK top job in 2022 but lost to Theuri.
Kenya High posted improved results for KCSE 2023 as compared to the previous year. The girls school recorded a mean score of 9.956 for 2023 in the results that were released by Ezekiel Machogu, the Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Education, while the in 2022, it recorded 9.954.
Kenya High also recorded the best mean score by a girls school.
Virginia Wahome, the Chief Principal said that the school had 36 candidates scoring a mean grade of A plain, 118 with A- and another 106 scored B+.
“The excellent results is due the sacrifice and hard work of both students and teachers,” Wahome added.
She noted that producing good results is not automatic. “The children may be bright but they need to be guided so that they can perform well in exams,” Wahome revealed.
Student population of the public school is about 1700 and it is expected to admit about 600 form one students in 2024.
Wahome observed that Kenya High is geared towards developing wholesome student and is a force to reckon with in sports, music and drama because it competes up to the national level.
“Our debate club went to South Africa last year and performed well and they have now have been invited to go to Harvard,” she said.
In the vast landscape of political literature, there emerges a beacon of insight and wisdom that promises not only a deep dive into Kenya’s political history but also a profound call for unity and understanding. “The Political Canary of Kenya” authored by the seasoned Engineer Akech Ochungo, a distinguished senior lecturer at Multimedia University Of Kenya, presents a compelling narrative that transcends boundaries and beckons readers to embark on a journey of political enlightenment. At the heart of this thought-provoking book lies a passionate exploration of the Joluo people and their political experiences from pre-independence to the present day. Engineer Akech Ochungo, through his rich narrative, invites us to reflect on the evolution of Kenya’s political landscape and encourages a collective shift towards political maturity. This literary masterpiece, spanning 11 chapters, is not merely a historical account but a profound guide that seeks to foster a more compassionate and harmonious approach to our nation’s political discourse. As the author gently nudges us towards understanding the Joluo people, he simultaneously advocates for the appreciation and respect of every Kenyan community and individual, fostering a sense of unity in diversity. What sets “The Political Canary of Kenya” apart is not just its exploration of historical events but its relevance to the current political climate. Engineer Akech Ochungo urges readers to contemplate the necessary steps for our nation to achieve the unity it desperately needs. Through a delicate balance of sensitivity and mindfulness, the book serves as a catalyst for transformative thinking, pushing us towards a future characterized by mutual understanding and collaboration. To give you a taste of the profound insights within the pages of this book, we will be unraveling its contents through a series of engaging episodes across various digital media platforms. Join us as we provide a step-by-step overview of the invaluable knowledge and wisdom encapsulated in each chapter. And what about the symbolism of the canary in this book? To discover its significance and delve deeper into the intricate layers of “The Political Canary of Kenya,” visit us at any Textbook Centre located near you. Don’t miss the opportunity to secure your copy and embark on a journey that promises to reshape your understanding of Kenya’s political tapestry. For more enquiries on how to get the book , contact us via email at habarithach@gmail.com or booksprocurement@tbc.co.ke. Alternatively, call us at 07307350000 to reserve your copy. Trust us; you don’t want to miss the chance to own a piece of this literary gem. “The Political Canary of Kenya” awaits, inviting you to be a part of the dialogue that shapes the future of our great nation.
The Kenya Rugby Union board of Directors led by Mr. Alexander Mutai the Chairman and Mr. John Kilonzo in charge of women rugby has today unveiled the names of the Shujaa and Lionesses squads that will be in action at the first round of the World Rugby HSBC Challenger 2024 from 12-14 January in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
Mwamba’s Brian Mutugi (pictured above) is set for his second appearance in Shujaa colors after being named in the 12 man squad for the opening round of the World Rugby HSBC Challenger 2024
Mutugi, who debuted during the Safari 7s, is the only change from the side that secured victory and Paris 2024 Olympic qualification with a 17-12 cup final win over South Africa in the Rugby Africa Men’s 7s last September in Harare, Zimbabwe.
Vincent Onyala and Anthony Omondi co-captain the side who will play out of Pool C.
The team starts with a clash against Mexico at 13:14 EAT on Friday, January 12, 2024 before taking on East African rivals Uganda at 17:58 EAT. They will conclude their Pool C campaign against Germany at 12:59 EAT on Saturday, January 13, 2024.
Commenting on the side’s preparations, Head Coach Kevin Wambua told KRU Media, “Our training sessions leading up to the Christmas break were highly productive, emphasizing skill enhancement and the development of effective attack and defense strategies. Despite a setback in early December when we were unable to participate in the Dubai event, we utilized internal games to refine our performance based on the valuable insights gained from the Safari 7s evaluation.
The competitive atmosphere within the squad has proven to be both robust and constructive, pushing each team member to bring their best to the forefront and contributing to an overall improvement in team dynamics. The recent three-day camp at Turi was instrumental in further elevating our preparedness. The choice of Turi was strategic, taking advantage of the high-altitude weather to better acclimate ourselves for the upcoming tournament in Dubai.
As we approach the competition, our focus is on taking each game as it comes, with the ultimate goal of securing a podium position. Given that the Challenger series consists of four legs, a strong start in the first leg is pivotal. This not only builds confidence within the team but also alleviates pressure for subsequent tournaments. Our target is clear – to establish ourselves early on and maintain a competitive edge throughout the series,” he concluded.
Shujaa squad to Dubai Vincent Onyala (KCB, Co-Captain), Tony Omondi (Mwamba, Co-Captain), Brian Tanga (Kabras Sugar),Kevin Wekesa (Kabras Sugar), John Okoth (Menengai Oilers), Samuel Asati (KCB), Nygel Amaitsa (Strathmore Leos), Festus Shiasi (KCB), William Mwanji (Kabras Sugar), George Ooro (Strathmore Leos), Patrick Odongo (Daystar Falcons), Brian Mutugi (Mwamba) MANAGEMENT: Kevin Wambua (Head Coach), Louis Kisia (Assistant Coach), Andrew Amonde (Assistant Coach), Lamech Francis Bogonko (Physio), Steve Sewe (Team Manager)
Sheila Chajira is back in the Lionesses squad to the World Rugby HSBC Challenger 2024.
Chajira was part of the Lionesses squad that reached the final of the Safari 7s, in what was her first appearance for the sevens national team since the Tokyo Olympics in August 2021.
Grace Okulu captains that side that seeks to secure qualification to the 2025 HSBC SVNS at the close of this campaign.
Lionesses Sevens Head Coach Dennis Mwanja spoke to Kenya Rugby about the upcoming assignment.
Mwanja, a former Shujaa skipper touched on the team’s preparations, expectations and selection criteria.
Preparation for Dubai Event “Our transition from fifteens to sevens has been a rewarding journey, and the team has made significant strides in improvement. As we gear up for Dubai, the combination of youthful energy and seasoned experience within our squad is promising, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm and anticipation for the upcoming challenge next weekend.”
Lionesses’ Tournament Approach “Taking a measured approach, we are approaching the tournament one game at a time. A thorough analysis of our opponents reveals their worth, but our team is grounded in self-belief and quietly confident in our capabilities. Our focus on staying fresh, being fully prepared, and maintaining a hunger for victory will be the key factors that carry us through the competition.”
Squad Selection Criteria “In assembling our squad, we considered a blend of experience, current form, and maturity on the field. Striking a delicate balance between youthful vigor, seasoned expertise, and leadership qualities was paramount. It is upon this combination that we place our trust to deliver the desired results in the upcoming event.”
The Lionesses, participating in Pool B of the women’s competition, will kick off their campaign with a match against China at 11:36 EAT on Friday, January 12, 2024.
Subsequently, they will go head-to-head with Czechia at 15:58 EAT on the same day. The Lionesses will wrap up their pool fixtures against Mexico at 10:59 EAT on Saturday, January 13.
Lionesses squad to Dubai Grace Okulu (Captain), Stella Wafula, Maureen Muritu, Phoebe Akinyi, Naomi Amuguni, Christabel Lindo, Sheila Chajira, Judy Okumu, Sinaida Nyachio, Sharon Auma, Diana Awino,Janet Okello, Diana KemuntoMANAGEMENT:Dennis Mwanja (Head Coach), Paul Murunga (Assistant Coach), Jeff Onyango (Assistant Coach), Levis Kituyi (Physio), Camyline Oyuayo (Team Manager)
Tennis Kenya President Mr. James Kenani third from left back row and Rosemary Owino, Tennis Coach second from right with Zion zone tennis team at Nairobi Club yesterday. Photo: Jared Odhiambo.
By Benard Mulwa
The President for tennis Kenya Mr. James Kenani has today flagged off Zion tennis team which will be flying to Burundi tomorrow for the East Africa Championship for under 14 and under 16.
The team which will be playing against East African Countries is set to represent Kenya is in two groups, boys and girls under 14 and 16 years.
Mr. Kenani said Kenya is regarded as a strong team in East Africa and the team has trained enough to face their opponents.
Present at the flagging off ceremony of the team in Nairobi Club was Mr. Sean Del Ross, the father of Ayan Quadres who is playing under 14 and Mr. Anand Chandarana the father of Aum Chandarana playing under 14 as well.
The President for tennis Kenya said the team is well sponsored and their stay in Burundi should be comfortable and he is seeking to co-ordinate with the Ministry of tourism to make the game more popular within Africa.
According to the President, the team is sponsored by International tennis federation but he asked the parents of the players to join in supporting.
“We will be having a zonal meeting in Burundi to discuss what best we can do to make it better in East Africa,” he said adding that in their last match Kenya performed well and immerged the winners.
Rosemary Owino, Coacher of the team said the federation is seeking to introduce young coaches to work with the old coaches in the team as part of a long term the federation is developing adding that the girls are doing better than the boys.
