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Head Of Corporate Business Prudential Life Assurance, Bernard Kinyanjui, Bancassurance Relationship Manager, Prudential Life Assurance, Pinky Pravin, Regional Corporate Manager Little Cab, Nyawira Maina, Head of Brand & Marketing Standard Chartered Kenya, Neema Gitau, Head of Communications East and West Africa Tetra Pak, Stella Ondimu, Head of Sales Reload, Elizabeth Munyau, and Managing Director Reload, Prasoon Shah.

By Steve El Sabai

Nairobi, Kenya – October 9, 2024

As the countdown begins for the 21st edition of the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, sponsors have pledged over KES 173 million to support the event, set to take place on October 27, 2024, at Uhuru Gardens. The marathon, which has drawn over 300,000 participants since its inception, remains one of the region’s premier athletic events, and this year’s support promises to elevate its impact even further.

The funds, a combination of cash and in-kind contributions, have been earmarked to enhance the experience for participants while fueling community initiatives focused on empowerment and development. This year’s marathon has drawn a record number of more than 40 sponsors, up from 30 last year, underlining the widespread commitment to transforming lives, nurturing talent, and promoting sportsmanship in Kenya and beyond.

Empowering Communities Through Sport

Peter Gitau, Chair of the Local Organizing Committee for the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support, stating, “We are excited to collaborate with our sponsors to promote community engagement, boost local economic growth, and empower youth through our FutureMakers initiative. Proceeds from the marathon will help young people—especially women and individuals with disabilities—learn, earn, and grow.”

Key sponsors for this year’s marathon include Standard Chartered, which has contributed a substantial KES 100 million, and Prudential Insurance, which has provided KES 10 million in cash and in-kind support as the official sponsor of the 5KM Family Fun Run. Other notable contributors include G4S, MSF, La Roche, Bata, Carrefour Supermarkets, and Healthy U, all united by their shared vision to make a positive impact on the community.

Inclusivity at the Forefront

Inclusivity is at the heart of this year’s event, with the marathon featuring a dedicated category for persons with disabilities, making it the only marathon in Kenya to do so. “Disability inclusion at the Standard Chartered Marathon is a critical step toward building a society where everyone, regardless of ability, can participate fully,” said Daniel Oloo, Interim Country Director at Light for the World Kenya, an organization that has supported the marathon’s disability inclusion efforts.

In addition to inclusivity, the marathon aims to inspire a culture of fitness and well-being among Kenyan families. Prudential Insurance’s CEO, Gwen Kinisu, noted, “By partnering with the Standard Chartered Nairobi Marathon, we not only support emerging and elite athletes in launching their careers but also encourage families to embrace healthy living.”

Support Beyond the Race

This year’s marathon goes beyond the racecourse. Event organizers have partnered with Magical Kenya, Kenya Airways, and Bonfire Adventures to promote sports tourism, positioning Kenya as a must-visit destination for international runners and fans. Other partners, such as WWF, Unicaf, and the Peace and Cultural Heritage Alliance, will spearhead sustainability efforts, ensuring the event’s environmental impact is minimized.

With over 25,000 participants expected, the marathon will feature various race categories, including the full 42km marathon, the 21km half marathon, and a popular 5km Family Run. Participants can also look forward to enhanced hydration stations, post-race care, and entertainment along the route, thanks to contributions from sponsors like Coca-Cola, Minute Maid, Greenspoon, and LG-OPALNET.

As Nairobi gears up for this highly anticipated event, the marathon continues to serve as a beacon of hope and empowerment for many, inspiring athletes and communities alike. Registration for the marathon is still open until October 13, 2024.

By Editorial Team

Nairobi, Kenya – Karrus J. Hayes, the Vice President of the Solar Common Association, known as the LEAF Network, and CEO of Sunstar Green Energy, is making waves at the ongoing Global Solar Conference in Nairobi Kenya. The forum, held in the heart of Kenya, has drawn participants from around the world to discuss advancements and challenges in solar energy.

Hayes expressed his enthusiasm for attending the forum, stating, “I’m happy to be here to participate in this global office solar forum. The opportunity to connect with new partners and collaborate with other companies is invaluable.” He noted that while he hails from Liberia, the rich landscape and vibrant culture of Kenya have made a lasting impression on him, remarking, “Africa is just the same place, but Kenya is a beautiful place compared to where I’m from.”

Since establishing Sunstar Green Energy in 2018, Hayes has led initiatives to bring solar power to rural communities in Liberia, where access to reliable electricity is still a pressing issue. “We build solar home systems and installations for schools, especially in areas that lack connection to the grid,” Hayes explained. His company has successfully implemented a pay-as-you-go model, helping over 10,000 people across seven counties in Liberia enjoy the benefits of renewable energy.

However, Hayes did not shy away from discussing the significant challenges facing renewable energy companies in Africa. “One of the key issues is rural connectivity—moving from one point to another can be quite difficult,” he noted. Additionally, Hayes highlighted the difficulty of securing financing from local banks, which are often hesitant to lend to small businesses due to a lack of collateral. “As a result, we struggle to obtain the funding necessary to expand our operations,” he said, underlining the need for greater support for local renewable energy initiatives.

As the forum continues, Hayes remains optimistic, focusing on the lessons he has learned and the potential partnerships he can forge to expand access to solar energy in Liberia and beyond. “I came to learn new things, and I leave with a wealth of knowledge that I hope to apply

by Mersia Aloo

Nairobi, Kenya – October 8, 2024 – In a significant moment for inclusivity in Kenyan politics, the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) launched the Political Parties Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) Training Manual at the Tin-Tin Hall, Kenyatta International Convention Centre. The event, attended by prominent stakeholders, advocates, and government officials, marks a pivotal step towards enhancing the political representation and participation of persons with disabilities in the country’s democratic processes.

Dr. Ann N. Nderitu, the Registrar of Political Parties, emphasized that the launch signifies a collective commitment to ensure the voices of PWDs are not only heard but actively represented in the political landscape. With statistics indicating that only 0.83% of political party members in Kenya have disabilities, Dr. Nderitu underscored the pressing need for greater inclusion. “Participation of persons with disabilities in political and public life is a right provided by law. When PWDs engage, their voices are reflected in policy decisions,” she stated.

Hon. Sen. (Dr.) Isaac Mwaura, Government Spokesperson and a longstanding advocate for PWD rights, echoed this sentiment, affirming that political inclusion is both a moral imperative and a legal obligation. He referred to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which guarantees equal rights and opportunities for PWDs globally. “We cannot hope to build a fair and democratic society if any group is left behind,” he remarked.

The newly launched manual is designed to bridge the gap between legislation and practical implementation, offering a comprehensive resource for political parties to create inclusive environments. It guides parties on actionable steps to enhance accessibility, including providing necessary resources such as sign language interpreters and accessible voting booths.

This manual is particularly crucial given the historical context of PWDs in Kenya, who have often been marginalized in the political sphere. The statistics reveal that fewer than 2% of registered voters in Kenya live with disabilities, and of those, only a small fraction successfully contested in the 2022 General Elections. Out of 270 candidates from the PWD community, only 21 were elected to office, with the overwhelming representation skewed towards male candidates.

Dr. Mwaura urged stakeholders to utilize the training manual as a living document that drives real change. “While today is a moment to celebrate, it also calls for action. The success of this manual depends on our commitment to integrating its recommendations into party structures and policies,” he stated.

Both leaders stressed the importance of collaboration among political parties, civil society, and government to ensure that PWDs can not only participate but thrive within the political arena. The ORPP’s initiatives, such as capacity building programs and the development of a Disability Inclusion Charter, aim to create a political culture where inclusivity is the norm, rather than the exception.

As the launch concluded, attendees were filled with hope and determination for a more inclusive political future in Kenya. The Political Parties PWD Training Manual serves as both an empowerment tool for PWDs and a roadmap for political parties aiming to represent the diverse fabric of the country’s electorate.

In the call for a united effort towards equality, the sentiments shared at the event resonate with a profound message: “Let us ensure that persons with disabilities have a seat at the table, where their voices are heard, their contributions valued, and their rights respected.” With this new manual, Kenya takes a courageous step toward a more inclusive democracy for all.

By Damaris

Kenya Railways has launched a new Premium Class service on the Madaraka Express, designed to provide a high-end travel experience. During the official launch, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and Roads, Davis Chirchir, highlighted the service’s luxury features, including enhanced comfort, personalized service, and state-of-the-art amenities.

Chirchir revealed that in July 2024, Kenya Railways upgraded its fleet with new rolling stock, including 1 dining car, 4 Premium Class coaches, 4 First Class coaches, 10 Economy Class coaches, and 1 power car. These enhancements align with the company’s goal to deliver a world-class rail service.

The Premium Class coaches accommodate only 28 passengers per coach, offering extra legroom, fully reclining seats that can function as beds, and seats that can rotate for added flexibility. Passengers will also enjoy complimentary beverages, meals, personalized service, and access to VIP lounges, as well as priority boarding and disembarkation.

By Diana

In a continued effort to promote transparency and encourage active public participation in Kenya’s national development agenda, the government, represented by Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura alongside other senior officials, held a highly interactive town hall meeting with residents of Kirinyaga County today. The meeting, which took place at Kirinyaga County Hall, was aimed at informing the public about ongoing and future government projects while providing a unique platform for direct dialogue between government representatives and local citizens.

This town hall was part of a larger initiative focused on ensuring that Kenyans across all counties are well-informed about the government’s development programs, while also fostering a culture of inclusivity in decision-making. By allowing residents to voice their concerns and ask questions directly to officials, the government seeks to reinforce its commitment to accountability and responsiveness. The forum emphasized the critical role citizens play in shaping policies and projects that have a direct impact on their communities.

Through such engagements, the government hopes to strengthen its relationship with the public and ensure that development initiatives reflect the real needs and aspirations of the people.

by Judith Mwai

Kenya Railways is proud to announce the ongoing development of the Nairobi Commuter Rail (NCR) network as part of the Nairobi Metropolitan Transport Master Plan. The ambitious project, supported by a Ksh 65 billion World Bank pledge, aims to transform commuter experiences by modernizing key lines, upgrading stations, and introducing an exclusive Premium Class service on the Madaraka Express.

Rehabilitation of Railway Lines

The NCR network spans a total of 139 km, covering four major lines: Nairobi Kikuyu, Makadara Ruiru, Nairobi Konza, and Makadara Embakasi Village. Key stations along these routes, including Ruiru, Githurai, and Imara Daima, have been modernized. The project aims to ease traffic congestion, enhance commuter safety,

By Editorial Team

Nairobi, 30/09/2024* – A bold move set to reshape the technological landscape in Africa has already taken place and TECNO, the continent’s leading smartphone manufacturer and global technology innovator, launched its first-ever AI-powered ecosystem at an exclusive event today. With an impressive lineup of cutting-edge devices, TECNO seeks to revolutionize the way African consumers connect, create, and engage with technology, paving the way for a smarter and more interconnected future.

“At TECNO, our mission is to create exceptional products that enhance people’s lives,” said [XX], a representative from TECNO. “With the introduction of AI, we are taking this commitment to the next level, offering innovative, practical AI features that blend seamlessly into the daily lives of our customers. As we celebrate 16 years in Africa, we continue to listen to our customers, using their feedback to fuel our product development.”

The AI-powered ecosystem features a diverse array of products optimized for the unique needs of African consumers. The flagship offering, the PHANTOM V Fold2 5G, showcases a stunning foldable design that combines a 120Hz 6.42″ outer screen with a larger 7.85″ main screen, making it ideal for multi-tasking. The device boasts an impressive 5750mAh battery, ensuring long-lasting use, and a sophisticated 5-lens camera system for exceptional photography.

Also making waves is the CAMON 30S, a stylish smartphone that incorporates a 50MP Sony IMX890 camera and a striking 6.78″ Full HD AMOLED display. It allows for outstanding photography whether in landscape, low-light, or portrait modes, along with a 45W supercharge feature that keeps users powered on the go.

For professionals, the MEGABOOK T16 Series offers high-performance laptops featuring Intel Core Ultra processors and AI-enhanced tools such as AI Image Generation and AI Copilot for improved productivity. Together, these devices create an extensive suite of tools catering to every aspect of personal and professional life.

TECNO also introduced a range of AI-driven features to elevate user experience, including:

• Ella AI Assistant: A smart assistant providing real-time translation, text generation, and intelligent recommendations.
• Smart Q&A: A conversational AI that aids with everyday tasks.
• AI Writing Tools: Features for generating and summarizing content efficiently.
• AI Artboard and Image Editing: Transforming simple doodles into art and offering advanced photo editing capabilities.
• AI Video Production: Streamlining the process from script to final edit for aspiring videographers.

Beyond smartphones and laptops, TECNO showcased additional AI-powered devices designed to enrich the consumer experience, such as:

• Pocket Go: A portable gaming device paired with immersive AR glasses.
• Dynamic 1 Robotic Dog: A playful AI companion for home interaction.
• MEGA MINI Gaming G1: Claimed to be the world’s smallest water-cooled mini PC, appealing to gaming enthusiasts.
• Sonic 2 Earbuds: Noise-canceling earbuds promising 50 hours of playtime with high-fidelity sound.

“At TECNO, we are excited about the future of AI and how it can benefit consumers in Africa,” added [XX]. “Our goal is to make practical AI accessible to all, integrating these technologies into daily life to improve quality of life and simplify everyday tasks.”

With solutions tailored to address communication barriers—such as Real-Time Call Translation and Smart Q&A—TECNO is committed to providing personalized experiences, ensuring that technology is not just advanced, but also inclusive.

As a global technology brand operating in over 70 markets, TECNO’s commitment to revolutionizing the digital experience in emerging markets shines through its relentless pursuit of innovative design and cutting-edge technology. Guided by its brand essence of “Stop At Nothing,” TECNO aims to empower individuals to pursue their best selves and unlock their future potential.

With this new AI-powered ecosystem, TECNO is set to lead the charge in transforming the technological landscape of Africa, making connectivity, creativity, and productivity more accessible and tailored for every consumer.

CAPTION: KICC, Kenya’s iconic premier conference facility in the region.

By Tum David

Kenya’s leading iconic conference facility, KICC was recently a venue for MICE, (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events), a stakeholders workshop in Nairobi where it was revealed that Kenya was struggling in hosting of conferences and was being overtaken by South Africa and Rwanda in that order.Experts say that Kenya’s conference business has fallen to a third place behind Rwanda and South Africa because of the lower infrastructure development tailored on the MICE sector in the country.There has also been a lack of incentives geared toward attracting international business events due to the inactive national marketing bureau.The global MICE market size is valued at $ 904.30 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow from $ 970.76 billion in 2024 to $ 1,932.73 billion by 2032.KICC almost operates as a National Convention Bureau because it handles the bidding and serves as the venue. The Kenya National Convention Bureaus ( KNCB), established in 2019 has since remained dormant despite attempts to operationalize it. KNCB is yet to become fully functional, although, in 2019, the MICE sector contributed about $1.05 billion to the economy and accounted for 8.8 percent of Kenya’s GDP.With a robust MICE sector, Kenya could significantly enhance its tourism targeta, aiming for 5 million international arrivals and generating Ksh 824 billion in revenue by 2027 The government plans to host at least 10 regional international conventions annually to leverage this potential further .Despite KICC recent role in both bidding and venue operations, stakeholders advocaded for a neutral entity dedicated primarily to promoting Kenya as a MICE destination.

by Mersia Aloo

Nairobi, Kenya — In a significant development for the education sector, Akelo Misori, the Secretary General of the Kenya Union of Post-Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET), has emphasized the urgent need to review the progress in education amid various challenges facing teachers and students. This announcement comes on the heels of the union calling off a planned strike scheduled for September 2nd, following negotiations aimed at improving the welfare of teachers.

During a press briefing, Misori outlined several key issues that KUPPET plans to address, particularly the demand for fair compensation for the thousands of teachers involved in managing national examinations. The union is advocating for an increase in the pay for exam invigilators from KSh 400 to KSh 3,000, calling for the cooperation of the National Examination Council in this regard.

The leadership of KUPPET has also been mandated to negotiate a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) for the period of 2024/2025, which is expected to encompass broader aspects of teachers’ welfare. Notably, KUPPET is seeking to meet with President William Ruto to discuss the employment of approximately 40,000 teachers to address the growing need for educators in the wake of the ongoing implementation of the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC).

Misori raised concerns about the current domicile situation for Grade 9 students following the implementation of CBC, noting that students are being placed in secondary schools without adequate infrastructure to support their learning. He urged the Ministry of Education to reconsider its approach and to domicile Grade 9 students in secondary schools that are appropriately equipped.

Additionally, Misori highlighted the financial implications of employing teachers for Grade 9, which could necessitate an estimated KSh 30 billion budget—an expense that he deemed excessive under the current circumstances.

In a separate statement, KUPPET’s Vice Chair, Amboko Milemba, underscored the need for the Ministry of Education to phase out boarding schools, arguing that the current framework of the CBC is not conducive to student wellbeing. He further recommended that the current bursary systems be consolidated, rather than allocated to Members of Parliament, Senators, and Governors, suggesting an overhaul that prioritizes the needs of students.

Milemba also called for risk allowances and commuting allowances for science teachers, acknowledging the unique challenges they face in their roles.

As KUPPET prepares for upcoming negotiations, the focus remains on creating a sustainable and equitable education system that not only supports teachers but also enhances the learning experience for students across Kenya.

The union is hopeful that continued dialogue with the government will lead to tangible improvements in the education sector, aligning with the aspirations of both educators and students alike.

by Mersia Aloo

Nairobi, Kenya – The University of Nairobi is abuzz with activity this week as it hosts the Cyber Week Africa 2024 Conference, aimed at addressing critical cybersecurity issues in an increasingly digital world. The event, which runs through the week, brings together key stakeholders from government, academia, and industry to explore the synergies necessary for enhancing cyber resilience across the continent.

Dr. Raymond Omolo, the Permanent Secretary for Internal Security, opened the ceremony with an emphasis on the importance of collaboration among different sectors. “There is a crucial nexus between government, the academia, and the industry, each bringing unique strengths to the table,” he stated. “Government acts as a facilitator, the industry contributes resources and expertise, while academia provides research and talent.”

The theme of this year’s conference revolves around both the advantages of technological innovation and the threats posed by cybersecurity breaches. Dr. Omolo highlighted the critical challenge experienced recently with Kenya’s E-Citizen platform, where over 20,000 services became inaccessible due to cyber maltreatment for nearly 48 hours, impacting citizens nationwide. He cautioned that while technology offers remarkable benefits, it also presents significant risks that could compromise national security and service delivery.

As part of its ongoing commitment to cybersecurity, the Kenyan government is investing in capacity building to equip stakeholders with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate the digital landscape effectively. Dr. Omolo added, “This conference serves as a vital opportunity to forge partnerships, enhance public awareness, and discuss the challenges and risks associated with technology.”

The conference also aims to address critical topics such as misinformation and disinformation, urging collaboration among stakeholders to ensure that liberties are respected and enjoyed responsibly. “As technology evolves rapidly, it is crucial we continually assess our educational curricula to align with emerging real-world needs and challenges,” he said.

In the legal landscape, Dr. Omolo referenced the Computer Misuse and Cyber Crimes Act of 2018, which has languished for years due to a lack of operational regulations. He announced that recent approvals by Parliament for these regulations aim to create a framework for addressing crimes committed through technology. As the government considers amendments to this legislation, emphasis will be placed on critical infrastructure protection and fostering international cooperation given the borderless nature of cyber threats.

However, challenges remain, particularly regarding cross-border prosecutions and the collection of admissible evidence in legal proceedings. The conference features legal experts to address these issues and begin shaping strategies for effective enforcement within the evolving digital ecosystem.

Dr. Omolo concluded with a call for self-regulation within the industry, urging players to take proactive measures in maintaining ethical practices. He stated, “While the government plays a pivotal role, it is imperative that industry professionals and the public also uphold self-regulation to foster a safer cyber environment for all.”

As the Cyber Week Africa 2024 unfolds, stakeholders are poised to engage in meaningful discussions and develop actionable strategies to bolster Kenya’s cybersecurity framework, paving the way for a more secure digital future.