Pan-African climate justice alliance has declined the invitation to meet with the COP28 president Designate Dr.Sultan Ahmed Al- jaber because of his old ties who is currently in the country where he intends to engage with civil society to amplify the voices of youth and indigenous communities in preparation for COP28
The PACJA organisation has stated that Dr.Al Jaber’s position as the chief executive officer of Abu Dhabi National oil company (ADNOC) poses a serious conflict of interest and debilitates his credibility as a leader of global climate negotiate
The organisation stated that it had previously called on Dr. Al Jaber to step down from his position as president Designate of COP 28
The organisation highlighted several reasons why Dr Al Jaber should step down since as the CEO of oil company that represents the interest of the fossil industry that is the main driver of the climate crisis and is unacceptable Dr.Al Jaber to hold such position
The organisation further noted that Al Jaber’s involvement in the cop process will raise serious questions about intergrity and legitimacy of the UNFCC as he will use his position to influence the outcomes of the negotiations on favour of the oil and gas sector therefore will undermine the efforts of developing countries
In conclusion pan African climate justice Alliance organisation reiterated that their invitation from Dr.Al Jaber as it appears to be a public relations stunt to improve his image and credibility as the Cop president and they urged Dr Al Jaber to step down from COP 28 presidency.
Baraza Media Lab, a leading hub for Kenya’s media practitioners, is set to revolutionize the art of storytelling with its highly anticipated two-day live production, Story Sosa. This groundbreaking program, created in collaboration with Catapult Agency and Gemini Pictures, promises to captivate audiences with an immersive and innovative blend of live performances, multimedia elements, and immersive experiences.
Story Sosa represents an audacious response to the challenges facing Kenya’s journalism ecosystem, including political pressures, declining revenues, and the rapid evolution of digital and social landscapes. Baraza Media Lab aims to redefine the creative boundaries of storytelling through this extraordinary project. Christine Mungai, Lead Curator at Baraza Media Lab, explains, “Story Sosa is not just a solution to these complex issues but a bold endeavour to experiment with new business models and formats within the media industry.”
Over the course of each evening, Story Sosa will showcase six meticulously curated stories akin to traditional magazine features. However, these narratives will come to life through a dynamic fusion of live performances, mesmerizing videos, captivating animations, and enchanting music. Director Mugambi Nthiga, renowned for his work in the theatre, film, and television industry, expresses his excitement, stating, “Story Sosa represents a thrilling indulgence in storytelling. Each story covers a vast range of subjects, brought to life through captivating animation and video. Our aim is to create a mesmerizing experience that will thrill and engage the audience, both live and through digital platforms.”
The inaugural edition of Story Sosa will take place on July 22nd and 23rd, 2023, at the prestigious Louis Leakey Auditorium within the Nairobi National Museum. This iconic venue, known for its celebration of Art and culture, serves as the perfect backdrop for this unprecedented storytelling extravaganza. Tickets for Story Sosa are available for purchase exclusively on mookh.com, offering a variety of options for individuals and groups, including enticing early bird and advance offers.
Angeline Musira, the producer of Story Sosa and the founder of Gemini Pictures, invites audiences to embark on an unforgettable journey of imagination and discovery, stating, “Story Sosa is tailor-made for those with a deep appreciation for theatre, T.E.D. Talks enthusiasts and fans of captivating YouTube explainers. This unique offering promises to captivate and engage audiences, delivering intriguing narratives that entertain and enlighten them. Prepare to have your perspectives transformed as even the most ordinary things, like monkeys or samosas, take on a whole new significance in this awe-inspiring audio-visual feast.”
In a groundbreaking move to support storytellers, Story Sosa ensures fair compensation by providing upfront payment for their work. Additionally, the storytellers will grant a two-year license to Shahara, a renowned video-on-demand platform, allowing their stories to be monetized. This experimental approach in media business models enables storytellers to earn royalties from the generated revenue. Barrack Bukusi, Founder of Catapult Agency, emphasizes the project’s commitment to empowering storytellers and content creators within the industry.
Don’t miss this extraordinary fusion of storytelling, technology, and live performances. We call on the Public to secure tickets to Story Sosa now and be prepared to begin a journey that will transform their understanding of the world we inhabit.
Conference – Kenyan-Indians’ Contribution to the Development of Kenya
The Conference aimed to incubate conversations and dialogue to support a nuanced and in-depth understanding about the role of the Indian-origin Kenyans from perspective of history, including its freedom struggle, and economic development of Kenya, its place in the East African region as well as their role in linking India and Kenya. The Conference examined this contribution from the perspective of different stakeholders.The conference saw participation of over 200 high-level dignitaries from the diaspora, academia, think tanks, business, media as well Members of Parliament and high-level officials from the host government. Hon’ble Mr. V. Muraleedharan, Minister of State, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India addressed the Plenary session through a video message and lauded the role of Indian diaspora in Kenya in connecting the two nations. Referring to over 30 million Indian diaspora globally, he described them as the living bridge connecting India with their host country. Hon’ble Minister fondly remembered his visit to Kenya in September 2022 to attend the swearing in ceremony of the President of Kenya HE Dr William S. Ruto.
Chief Guest Dr. Abraham Korir SingOei, Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Government of Republic of Kenya, in his address praised the role played by Indian-origin Kenyans in the progress and prosperity of Kenya. He appreciated the intrinsic quality of Indian-origin Kenyans to flourish and contribute to the economic development and growth of the country. Indian origin people in Kenya have created assets for the welfare and benefit of the society, including the health facilities in Kenya, and their impact has been felt by everyone, he said.
Dr. Manu Chandaria, a Pravasi Bharat Samman Awardee, and the doyen of Kenyan Industry, gave a special address at the Plenary session, recounted his experiences in Kenya, and called upon everyone to do their best for development of the country. He also referred to the deep bonds with India. Referring to his connection with the Indian freedom struggle, and admiration of the Gandhian values, he also praised the role played by Indians in Kenya’s freedom struggle and later on in the development of educational institutions.
High Commissioner of India to Kenya Ms Namgya Khampa, in her remarks emphasized on the need to document the contribution and role of Indian origin Kenyans in the development of Kenya and added that this conference was an attempt in that direction. She also appreciated the role of the diaspora in building bridges of friendship between India and Kenya.
Dr Bimal Kantaria, Chairman of United Asian Network (UAN) talked about his organization UAN which was launched to bring together Asian Kenyan community to make a collective impact in the society.
The plenary session was followed by panel discussions diving into the contribution of Indian-origin Kenyans in the history and development of Kenya, including in the economy. The panel discussions were titled: (i) Exploring Asian-Indian Identity in Kenya through History and (ii) Contributing to the Economic Transformation of Kenya. Academicians, diaspora leaders, think tanks, captains of industry and Member of National Assembly of Kenya explored the theme from historical and economic lens. Dr. Kenneth Ombongi, Senior Lecturer, University of Nairobi, and Mr. Kwame Owino, CEO, Institute of Economic Affairs moderated panel discussions. The panelists included – Hon. Abdul Rahim Dawood, MP; Mr. Peter Kimani, Author; Mr Ashok Shah, Group CEO, Apollo Investment Ltd.; renowned Advocate Mr. Aurelio Rebelo; Ms. Ushaben Shah, wellknown social worker & teacher; Dr. Bimal Kantaria, MD, Elgon Kenya and Chairman UAN; Mr. T.R. Ramamurthy, Group strategic consultant at IPS KENYA; Ms. Carole Kariuki, CEO – Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA); Mr. Vimal Shah, CEO Bidco; and Mr. Rajan Shah, National Chairman, Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM).
KEPSA CEO, Ms. Carole Kariuki noted the existing partnership between KEPSA and the High Commission of India in developing a mirrored version of ‘Start-up India’ in Kenya, that will provide opportunities for the businesses in private sector to network, access tools and resources, and participate in programs and challenges. She also referred to the proposed SME corridor between the two countries which will lead to upscaling of SMEs in both nations. Mr. Hindpal Jabbal, son of late Makhan Singh whose role in the independence struggle of Kenya is well documented, also made a special intervention recounting the life and struggle of his father.
Publications by various authors on the Indian-origin Kenyan community and the connect between India and Kenya through history were also displayed at the Conference venue.The conference generated interest from the participants and sparked conversation on the need for doing more to document the contributions of the Kenyan-Indians’ in the development of Kenya.
Vincent Kidaha emphasized the need for social movements to spearhead reforming the arrangements for global economic governance. “We are calling for a new global currency that can challenge the dominant role of the US dollar in the international monetary system,” Kidaha said.
Mulialia Okumu the Secretary General
also pushed for a greater voice and more votes for developing countries in key international economic organisations like the IMF, World Bank and the UN Security Council.
The Estate Agents Registration Board has today voiced its concerns over the increased number of new associations claiming to regulate the real estate companies. Most of the associations have in the past been known to swindle Kenyans.
While addressing the media at their offices along 3rd Ngong Avenue in Nairobi, the chairperson of the Board Ms Eunice Macharia remarked, “The Estate Agents Registration Board EARB is the sole regulatory body with the mandate to register estate agents under Estate Agents Act Cap 533 to ensure practice of estate agency is of high standards in order to protect the public. These association’s she continued to add seem to be mutations of land buying companies which have previously swindled Kenyan citizens through false pretenses that they are in a position to sell them land. We want to warn Kenyans that these groupings have no mandate to register estate agents neither are they regulated by the government and any person associating with them may be exposed to fraud. The board has over the years tried reaching the groups but their efforts have bore little to no fruit. The Board which lack physical presence in County government attributed the scenario to the Amorphous nature of the groupings and their unwillingness to comply by the law.
Ms Eunice concluded by Saying ” Anyone committing to buy land should carry out due diligence on the titles, ensure the subdivisions schemes are approved by the relevant county and National Governments and that the sub-divided parcels have of the requisite titles to save them from financial loses or heartaches as they may be enticed with false schemes.
AviaDev Africa, the leading platform dedicated to enhancing connectivity to, from, and within the African continent, is delighted to announce that the event will be held in the beautiful city of Windhoek, Namibia in June 2024, hosted by the Namibia Airports Company.
This annual forum will bring together influential stakeholders, including airlines, airports, tourism boards, government officials and industry experts to foster collaboration, forge strategic partnerships, and explore opportunities that will deliver new air routes across Africa.
AviaDev Africa is renowned for its unique ability to create a conducive environment for aviation professionals to network, exchange ideas, and collaborate on innovative strategies that drive sustainable air connectivity. By choosing Windhoek as the host city for the event in 2024, AviaDev aims to highlight Namibia’s growing significance as a destination for the aviation industry and its commitment to bolstering regional connectivity.
AviaDev Africa is a platform for aviation professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders to come together to discuss and develop solutions to the challenges facing the African aviation industry. The conference will feature a range of speakers, panel discussions, and workshops, as well as an exhibition of aviation products and services.
We are thrilled to host AviaDev Africa in 2024 and welcome industry leaders to experience the wonders of our country for both business and tourism, says Bisey /Uirab, CEO of the Namibia Airports Company. From the enchanting coastal city of Swakopmund to the ethereal Namib Desert and the breath-taking wildlife encounters in Etosha National Park, Namibia offers an unparalleled tourism experience. We are eager to share the magic of our destinations and forge partnerships that will further enhance connectivity and drive sustainable tourism growth and new business opportunities.
Namibia is a rapidly growing tourism destination, with a diverse range of attractions to offer visitors. The country is home to stunning scenery, including the Namib Desert, the Skeleton Coast, and the Etosha National Park. Namibia also has a rich cultural heritage, with a variety of ethnic groups and languages.
AviaDev Africa not only aims to foster aviation growth but also serves as a platform to highlight the immense potential of the host country, says Jon Howell, CEO of AviaDev. We are impressed by the drive of the Namibia Airports Company and the unified approach of all stakeholders to support air connectivity to, from and within the country. By convening aviation professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders in Windhoek, we will deliver a memorable event experience and explore untapped opportunities that will drive the growth of air connectivity across the continent.
AviaDev will continue fostering collaboration, inspiring innovation, and driving economic growth within the aviation industry.
Rampa Rammopo CEO of Lanseris International Airport is keen to attract Kenyan airlines to use their world class facilities.
Attending AVADEV conference in Nairobi, Rammopo said that they are targeting more airlines to use their facility.
Lanseria International Airport Passengers can make use of our world class facilities day and night. With flights from commercial airlines and charter companies operating every day, 24/7.
The newly expanded terminal building offers domestic, regional and international flight departures and arrivals. Destinations from the commercial airlines currently include both Durban and Cape Town , with more to come soon. The new runway has paved the way for larger aircraft to comfortably land here.
Each airline has their own travel information and special instructions for flying with them, so it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with their information when flying with them. Contact them directly for flight bookings, changes to your itinerary and luggage restrictions etc.
All airlines have daily flights to and from this airport and up-to-date flight information can be obtained directly from their websites, or mobile applications.
Kenya’s National carrier, Kenya Airways (KQ) has unveiled Africa’s most awaited loyalty program dubbed Asante Rewards. The program is an appreciation of customer loyalty by the airline and will allow customers to get greater value from their flying experience in form of redeemable points which can be earned from flights operated by Kenya Airways or any of its partners. Through the Asante Rewards Loyalty Program, customers will be able to redeem their points for benefits such as reward ticket flights, seat upgrades, extra baggage allowance, priority services, seat selections and many more rewards. The introduction of Asante Rewards is in response to the need for a loyalty program curated with the African market & dynamics in mind. This is also in line with the airline’s commitment to innovate and develop products and services that ensure an enhanced and delightful customer end-to-end experience. Speaking at the launch, Allan Kilavuka, Kenya Airways Group Chief Executive Officer said: “Asante Rewards is a unique African product created from years of research, customer feedback and best practices from across the globe. Kenya Airways is proud to introduce Africa’s most awaited loyalty program. For 46 years, millions of customers have chosen us. For 46 years, our customers have trusted us as their airline of choice. For 46 years, our customers have enabled us win multiple awards and recognition as the Pride of Africa. It is now time for us as Kenya Airways to say Asante our customers in a very special way.” The Asante Rewards Loyalty Program will offer customers four (4) tiers which they can grow into as they accrue their points. These are: Silver, Ruby, Gold, and Platinum each offering unique benefits and privileges to ensure customers have a more rewarding experience when travelling with Kenya Airways. The Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Transport, Infrastructure, Housing, Urban Development and Public Works, Hon. Kipchumba Murkomen, lauded Kenya Airways for its contribution to Africa’s aviation industry. “This Loyalty Program is a perfect step towards turning around the fortunes of Kenya Airways in the promising journey of making it competitive in the global aviation sector. The value of loyalty programs became evident during the COVID pandemic when some airlines used the loyalty programs valuations for multi-billion-dollar loans”. Julius Thairu, Chief Commercial and Customer Officer at Kenya Airways said, “We are constantly aspiring to provide our valued flyers with unforgettable experiences and are always willing to walk that extra mile to ensure that travelling on Kenya Airways is more rewarding for our customers. Kenya Airways has pioneered the art of innovation in Africa’s aviation space and the Asante Rewards Loyalty Program is yet another product which aims to delight of our customers.” All customers will be awarded with 1000 points automatically on enrolment. More benefits will rolled out in the coming months as the airline onboard more partners. More information on the Asante Rewards Loyalty Program is available
The Attorney General Alliance Africa (AGA- Africa) has noted with greatest concern the increase in infringement of intellectual property around the world.
AGA-Africa International adivisor Mr.John Edozie (pictured below) says intellectual property was a key pillar and crucial to driving a country’s economy to greater heights and it was time for nations to form policies that would protect individuals as regards to intellectual property.
“Intellectual property fosters creativity and propels economic growth” Edozie acknowledged that ideas of the mind shaped the world & businesses nowadays not only focuses on investments on goods and physical assets alone.
Edozie made the remarks at the launch of the Anti counterfeit Authority symposium launch in Nairobi.
AGA-Africa mandate includes training of investigators,prosecutors and judicial officers in the investigation and prosecution of transnational crimes.
It also participates in seminars and other events to educate and draw attention to the danger of transnational crimes.
Delegates around the country are gathering at The Nakuru County Government which is currently hosting the first-ever Kenya Urban Forum Conference as it seeks to market the region to potential investors.
The county administration has disclosed that it will use the conference, running under the theme “Strategic Pathways to Inclusive and Sustainable Urbanization in Kenya,” to position Nakuru County as an investor’s paradise. Cabinet Secretary for Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development Zachariah Mwangi Njeru said key thematic subjects that participants will deliberate on include urban infrastructure and services, urban planning and management, urban resilience, climate change and the environment, urban governance and management, and the land question.
Speaking to journalists Mombasa’s County Chief Officer in charge of lands,urban planning and housing Mr.Ali Sheriff noted that the conference is of significance to the county as the county has so many plans in regards to urban planning. Among them include the Strategic development Plan which is also referred to Mombasa’s vision 2030. Others include the great City master plan which was done by the Japanese government.This master plan according to him markets Mombasa as a tourist hub and logistics hub for the. County. He adds that the county’s vision 2035 master plan has earmarked several projects which have importance to this event. On affordable housing he emphasized that the county has already advertised for expression of interest of five affordable housing projects within the city . “We. Have advertised for esprssion of interest of five affordable housing projects within the city and we expect that developers will partner with us to develope the city” .He said. The conference is expected to conclude tommorow.
