Author: staff reporter

by Mathew Ndeti

African Governments have been challenged to invest more in research and innovation to enhance food security in the continent.

Speaking during a food conference in Nairobi, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi said although a lot was being done in the region, it is not captured in the Biennial Review Reporting on food insecurity because of lack of accessibility of data and information and not because of lack of performance.

“As a continent, we need to coordinate better and implement innovative digital tools for the collection of data, Food Security is a big priority for the National Government in Kenya, However the biggest gap is that there is very little or no research being done and I am confident that at the end of this forum, stakeholders will come up with ideas and solutions to ensure food security in the continent.’” he said in he said in a speech read on his behalf by the Deputy Director at the State department of Agriculture Phyllis Njane.

Linturi noted that Science, technologies, and innovations are increasingly becoming key, with less land available to produce food and declining water levels. The focus must therefore be on how to produce more food, with less land and water, while conserving the environment at the same time. The scenario has played out in the World before. In the 1960s, the world was under the spell of Malthusian theory, with rising concerns that agricultural growth will not be able to keep up with population growth. What the Malthusian theory did not consider was the power of science and technology to break yield barriers. The green revolution, with high yielding varieties of wheat and rice, transformed Asia. India – which a Nobel Prize economist once considered a “basket case” – soon became a major exporter of food.
The assembly of African Heads of State and Government during the 35th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union Heads of State and Government in February 2022, launched a report on 10th March 2022 that captured Africa’s agricultural progress on the implementation of the June 2014 Malabo Declaration on Accelerated Agricultural Growth and Transformation for Shared Prosperity and Improved Livelihoods. 
From the reports being churned out, he noted with concern that the challenge we have experienced with Biennial Reporting is not so much a lack of performance, but more about accessibility of data and information which means, as a sector, we need to coordinate better and implement innovative digital tools for the collection of data, moving forward.
Looking to the future, the Cabinet Secretary reiterated Africa subsidies are inevitable in the early phases of agricultural transformations to guarantee food security. This, he said, will ensure that the poor, especially women, and smallholders benefit from technical change. On this front, Kenya has done very well. The government has since spent about Sh6 billion on fertilizer subsidy and according to the National Cereals and Produce Board, 2. 3 million farmers have been registered by the Ministry of Agriculture. The ready-made database will give farmers managed access to government programs and enhance openness, accountability, and traceability in the operation of fertilizer subsidy schemes.
He called on all governments, stakeholders to team up and build prosperity through inclusive, innovative, collaborative, and dynamic food systems, that are based on data-driven decisions to ensure access to diverse diets from climate resilient production in every region of the country.

On his part, Climate Resilient Food Systems Division, IDRC, Director Mr. Santiago Alba Corral said, the conference will provide a platform for delegates to learn, share information and build strategic partnerships with the overall objective of identifying effective interventions to reduce food loss waste on the continent as well as push for research and funding.

“Africa has the potential to not only feed itself, even with a growing population, but to become a net exporter of food – rather than an importer as it is now, he said.”

Speaking on the same, Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) Eleanor Dean said by investing in cutting-edge research and technology, CultiAf is developing and disseminating innovative farming practices tailored to Africa’s unique conditions.

The progamme is pegged on four research themes which are increasing productivity and reducing post-harvest losses, linking agriculture, nutrition and human health, gender equality and climate change and agricultural water management.

The two-day conference on innovation, research and how funding can improve food security, productivity, and profitability in Africa has attracted over 200 delegates.

The conference is being hosted by (International Development Research Centre) IDRC and (Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research) ACIAR. The two organizations have sponsored a programme christened Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund (CultiAf) and funded programs in selected countries in Eastern and Southern Africa such as Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

by Edna Okoth

The conference whose theme is dubbed ‘ Enabling resilient, equitable and sustainable food systems brings together policy makers, research teams, private sectors, farmer representatives, donors, non- governmental organisations, policy makers and eminent persons engaged in research, innovations, agriculture and food security in Africa.

The two phased five- year food security project named Cultivate Africa’s Future ( CultiAF) was founded ten years ago by International Development Research Centre (IDRC) that is based in Canada and Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) which is based in Australia.

The main aim of the partnership is to fund applied research to develop and scale up sustainable climate resilience and gender responsive innovations for smallholder producers.

Through the program,nine projects have tested 19 innovations in Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe and have been provided with grants and some notable success of the project include increased food and nutrition security in Eastern and Southern Africa through research and developing sustainable climate resilient and gender responsive innovations for smallholder farmers.

Speaking during the conference, African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) program Director, Susan Kaaria noted that the persisting rural gender inequalities are brought by some factors including employment, explaining that women’ working conditions are likely to be worse than men’s, land rights, food insecurity, financial services, excessive work burden and social-cultural norms.

She also highlighted that some ways to fostering inclusive value chains include gender analysis at community level and of value chains, increasing women’s and youth’s access to resources, services and opportunities, enhance women’s and youth’s participation and leadership in value chains and generating better data at the individual level.

Some resolutions from the conference included shared understanding of the results and outcomes of the projects and the program as a whole, networking and learning from the stakeholders, celebrating the achievements of the program, funding matters as well as conversations around what the future systems will look like in the Eastern and Southern Africa.

Ends..

By irene mwende

International development research center (IDRC_CRDI) has today hosted a cultivate Africa’s future food systems conference at safari park hotel as a nation’s desire improve food and nutrition security to transform the food system to secure better livehoods for farmers and communities

The two organisations international development research center and Australian center for international agricultural research have partnered with select countries in Eastern and Southern African regions to fund applied research to develop and scale up sustainable climate resilient and gender responsive innovations for smallholder producers

Through the program nine projects have tested 19 innovations in Ethiopia,Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique,Uganda among others have been provided with grants and four projects rolled over from phase one and started in October 2018 were closed in 2021 hence the four projects made significant contributions to increasing productivity and incomes improving human and livestock nutrition and the remaining five projects are focusing at the climate smart agricultural technologies such as insurance, drought tolerant and irrigation technologies

Speaking during the conference Ms Eleanor noted that the conference bring global movement that recognises the undeniable power of agriculture to shape societies economy

“The theme of this conference cultivate Africa’s future food systems is enabling resilient, equitable and sustainable food systems encapsulates the urgency with which we must unlock the vast untapped potential within our agricultural systems”said Ms Eleanor

She further added that Australia center for international agricultural research has been instrumental in addressing agricultural challenges faced by developing countries in the Eastern and Southern Africa region by emphasising collaborative partnerships, research and sustainable practices

“I am incredibly proud of the numerous achievements portrayed through the portfolio of the nine research projects that have created such a remarkable ripple effect across the twelve countries” said Eleanor adding that from drought resistant crops to precision agricultural techniques and gender responsive innovations for smallholder producers that significantly increase production and resilience in the face of climate change

In conclusion she highlighted cultivate Africa’s future food systems conference represents a beacon of hope for a continent poised for agricultural transformation by embracing innovation, empowering farmers and fostering collaboration.

By irene mwende

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.

By Ronald Njoroge

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

By irene mwende

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.