Category: Uncategorized

by Bruno Aero

The Transparent International (TI), Mr. George Kiondo, Finance officer (TI) has emphasized the importance of early planning and foundational growth in the fight against corruption in Kenya.

Speaking at Business Integrity conference, Mr. Kiondo stated that instilling ethical practices and business preparedness from a young age is crucial to curbing corruption.

“Doing things from an early age and focusing on foundational growth is the only way to stop corruption,” said Mr. Kiondo. 

He stressed the necessity of sensitizing businesses to ethical practices and integrity in their operations.

The ODPP has outlined several approaches to tackle corruption effectively.

Automation of Systems- Implementing automated systems to enhance transparency within government operations and the tendering process.

Punitive Laws- Enforcing stricter laws to ensure that those found guilty of corruption face severe penalties.

Transparency Initiatives-Increasing transparency in all governmental processes to prevent corruption from taking root.

Mr. Kiondo,IT  also highlighted the need to ensure that suspects in corruption cases are duly punished and that there is a robust implementation of laws.

 “There are many cases that are dropped, and there is a need to punish suspects and implement laws effectively,” he added. 

He referred to notable cases such as the Kimwarer and Arror dams scandals, where suspects have continued to operate despite serious allegations.

The TI is committed to working with various stakeholders to ensure a corruption-free Kenya by fostering a culture of integrity and accountability from a young age.

Naivas brand and the Visa brand in strategic partnership for Loyalty Cards.

Visa, a world leader in digital payments, and Naivas Supermarket, Kenya’slargest retailer,
have announced a strategic partnership to develop a co-branded loyalty card. This innovative collaboration aims to
enhance the shopping experience for Naivas customers by providing value-added benefits and rewards.
The co-branded loyalty card, a first-of-its-kind in the Kenyan retail sector, will combine the convenience and security of
Visa’s digital payment solutions with the benefits of Naivas’ customer loyalty program. The cardholders will have the
opportunity to earn loyalty points for every purchase made at Naivas Supermarket and other participating Naivas
partners, which can be redeemed for future discounts and special offers.
“The loyalty program which we have aptly dubbed as the Reward Card, is our way of appreciating our customers and
telling them asante for choosing us. Our mission is to provide an affordable world class shopping experience to our
customers, and we are always looking for ways to further enhance the customer offer. This partnership provides us with
an opportunity to do that, and customers will be able to use this card with the fact one can now use this card to shop
in millions of locations worldwide, it does not get any more global than that.,” said Andreas von Paleske, Naivas Chief
of Strategy.
In addition to earning and redeeming points, cardholders will also enjoy other advantages such as:
 Installments payments: Buy now pay later.
 Contactless Payments: The card allows for contactless payments, providing a safer, faster, and more
convenient way to pay.
 Global Acceptance: As a Visa card, it will be accepted at millions of locations worldwide, both online and offline.
 Secure Transactions: The card comes with Visa’s advanced security technologies, offering peace of mind to
customers.
Chad Pollock, Vice president and General Manager, Visa East Africa added, ” Our collaboration with Naivas Supermarket
is a significant step forward in our mission to enable seamless, secure digital payments for everyone, everywhere. We
are thrilled to bring this unique offering to consumers in Kenya which will allow all Naivas customers to have access to
a global, reliable and secure digital payment option in the form of a Visa card. By making digital payments more
accessible, we are helping to bridge the financial divide and paving the way for a more inclusive society. We look forward
to the positive change we can bring together”
The co-branded loyalty card will be available in all Naivas Supermarkets across the country in the coming months.

Mr. Michael Dehn, Managing Dirdctor mess frankfurt in Nairobi today. Photo: Benard Mulwa.

By Benard Mulwa.

Automotive services industry players from 38 Sub-Sahara countries are set to visit South Aftica for the ninth Automechanika Johannesbug International trade fair.
The trade fair which will take place from 19 to 21st November 2024 will offer exclusive networking opportunities
Mr. Michael Dehn the Mansging Director for Automechanika Johannesbug messe frankgurt today visited Kenya to sell the company to potential companies and professions to attract trade between Kenya and South Africa in the coming trade fair.
Mr. Michael Dehn said that the new development is the introduction of free visa travel between Kenya and South Aftica which he said boost trade between the two countries, “there is a vibrant trade between Kenya and South Africa since January 2023 which will make it easy for business people to visite South Agrica, ” adding that it will increase local trade opportunities. Automechanika Johannesburg is the leading exporter in Africa with a total value export of 468.9 Million Rands to Kenya last year. Mr. Michael said the company will hold 8 exhibitions in South Africa and 350 around the world this year.
Countries ftom China, India, Turkey, Europe USA, South America and other Asian countries are expected to showcase in this exhibition.

By Admin*

NAIROBI – In a significant move to address the challenges facing county governments, the Devolution Committee convened today at a Nairobi hotel to discuss the pension funds and benefits for county employees. The meeting, led by Richard Onyonka, highlighted several pressing concerns, including the lack of gratuity for members of county assemblies and the unresolved pension issues from the former county councils.

“We are beginning to interrogate the issues and challenges that the county governments are facing,” Onyonka stated. “Today’s matter focused on the pension funds and benefits of county employees, including other funds like gratuities. Currently, members of the county assembly, whether they have served for one, two, or three years, do not receive any gratuity or payment. This is in stark contrast to members of the National Assembly, senators, and even the President and Vice President, who receive their pensions and gratuities.”

Onyonka emphasized the need for fairness in the distribution of these benefits. “There has to be fairness, and that is one of the issues we came to discuss,” he said. He further elaborated on the situation following the dissolution of the county councils after the 2010 Constitution came into effect. “Many of the county assemblies have had their pensions either not paid or not remitted to the managing funds. We are interrogating this to ensure we can ring-fence these funds and protect them, as they are owned by county governments.”

The committee is considering several measures to address these issues, including potential legislation, engagement, discussions, or even legal action to ensure that county employees are not left destitute and disregarded. “We want to make sure that all these people, who are Kenyans, do not become destitute,” Onyonka stressed.

Although the Council of Governors was unable to attend due to other commitments, and the Comptroller of Budget sent apologies, the committee remains committed to continuing these discussions. “I believe the team which was here will meet again to discuss and find solutions,” Onyonka concluded.

This meeting marks a critical step towards ensuring that county employees receive the benefits they deserve, aiming to create a fairer system for all government workers across Kenya.

by Bruno Aero

Nairobi — In a historic diplomatic engagement, the Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Hamza Abdi Barre, met with Kenya’s Deputy President, H.E. Rigathi Gachagua, in Nairobi on May 7, 2024.

This high-level meeting underscores the deepening bilateral relations between Somalia and Kenya, focusing on mutual interests and cooperation.

The meeting, which took place at the Official Residence in Karen, Nairobi, followed the 3rd session of the Kenya-Somalia Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC), held from May 3 to 6, 2024. The JCC’s ministerial session, co-chaired by Prime Minister Barre and Deputy President Gachagua, aimed at bolstering collaboration in various domains such as security, trade, and cross-border cooperation.

During the visit, the two leaders discussed the importance of enhancing partnerships in the international stage and the need for continued consultations to build partnerships in multi-lateral fora.

They emphasized the significance of the Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) in advancing mutual interests and strengthening the bilateral relations between the Republic of Kenya and the Federal Republic of Somalia.

The focus of the second day of the visit shifted to the safety of journalists, particularly those in Somalia who tackle environmental reporting in challenging conditions. This indicates a commitment from both nations to address pressing social and environmental issues.

The visit of Prime Minister Barre to Kenya represents a significant step forward in the bilateral relationship between the two countries. It is expected to have far-reaching implications for both nations, promoting economic growth, enhancing security cooperation, and improving the lives of citizens in Somalia and Kenya.

In conclusion, the meeting between the Somali Prime Minister and the Kenyan Deputy President marks a new chapter in the bilateral relations between Somalia and Kenya.

It signifies a commitment to further cooperation and partnership in various areas of mutual interest, highlighting the importance of diplomacy in resolving conflicts and fostering peace and stability in the Horn of Africa

From left: National Heroes Council Chairman Hon. Jimmy Angwenyi, MGH and Chief Executive Officer Mr. Charles Wambai, OGW. at Utalii College, Nairobi today. Photo: Benard Mulwa

By Benard Mulwa

The government is seeking to establish Heroes fund to support the National Heroes Council in achieving its mandate, it had been revealed.
The Principal Secretary in the State Department for Culture, the Arts and Heritage Ms Ummi Bashir has said the Council have conducted public participation exercise across all the regions in Kenya to get views on how they want their Heroes identified and honored.

The key strategic issues that the plan aim to address include honours and awards for heroes welfare, merit based honouring and enabling policy and legal framework,setting up of governance structures, approval of regulations and policies such as the Heroes Act regulation The Principal Secretary was speaking today during the validation of the 2023-2027 strategic plan adding that the Council of Governors secretariat and the National Heroes Council secretariat have already commenced discussions on the recognition and honouring of heroes from Counties, funding and resource mobilization, education and awareness, research and legislative review.
The next engagements will ensure that heroes are honoured, and their legacy preserved to inspire acts of heroism for the benefit of citizens.
The Chief executive officer Mr. Charles Wambai said this was the first draft since the council was established last year, “we have had a challenge in data since pre and post independence ” adding that the council will establish monuments across all the 47 countries.

Kenya and Somalia have committed to deepen their bilateral relations and economic ties in trade and investment with a view of boosting the economy of both nations.

Following a meeting between Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Somalia’s Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre in Nairobi on Tuesday, the two countries also discussed joint elimination of cartels and promoting transparent and sustainable trade practices that benefit all stakeholders.

The official visit comes on the heels of the third Session of the Joint Commission of Cooperation (JCC) between the two countries held in Nairobi from May 3 to 5, 2024.

From left: Dr. Meshack Ndirangu, country director Kenya Amref Health Africa, Sarah Kosgei project Manager and Dr. Benjamin Nyilitya Chief Science Officer 4ife at the Amref office in Nairobi today. Photo: Benard Mulwa.

By Benard Mulwa
Floods affected communities in Mai Mahiu, Tana River and Garissa will benefit with Safe water bags donation to curb the spread of waterborne diseases, including cholera outbreaks.
A leading provider of sustainable water treatment solutions, – 4Life Solutions SEZ (4LS) in partnership with Amref Health Africa in Kenya will today donate 1000 SaWa Bags with indicators to AMREF Health Africa in Kenya, valued at KES. 750,000. The innovative SaWa Bags utilize solar water disinfection (SODIS) technology and are able to kill bacteria, protozoa, and viruses, making them essential in providing treated and safe water to the flood victims. This sustainable solar energy powered solution can serve a household up to 1 year. It is essential to note that many people die annually due to waterborne diseases, emphasizing the urgency of this partnership.
As part of this collaboration, 4LS will donate 1000 SaWa Bags with indicators to AMREF Health Africa in Kenya, valued at KES. 750,000. The innovative SaWa Bags utilize solar water disinfection (SODIS) technology and are able to kill bacteria, protozoa, and viruses, making them essential in providing treated and safe water to the flood victims. This sustainable solar energy powered solution can serve a household up to 1 year. It is essential to note that many people die annually due to waterborne diseases, emphasizing the urgency of this partnership

“We stand by the flood victims and acknowledge their plight during these difficult times,” said Dr. Benjamin K. Nyilitya, Chief Science Officer and Emergency Response Champion at 4Life Solutions SEZ, Access to safe, clean drinking water and sanitation are a human right and is essential for survival, and we are excited to join forces with Amref to make a meaningful impact in the lives of the Mai Mahiu and Tana River communities.”

“We are deeply grateful to 4Life Solutions SEZ for their generous contribution of SaWa Bags
to Mai Mahiu and Tana River communities. This partnership addresses the urgent need for clean water during the ongoing flood crisis and empowers our communities with sustainable solutions to prevent waterborne diseases. This gesture is not just about providing immediate aid; it’s about laying the foundation for health improvements in these communities. This partnership is a testament to the power of collaborative efforts in building a healthier future for all.” Dr. Meshack Ndirangu, Country Director, Amref Health Africa in Kenya.
To commemorate the partnership, a meeting presentation will be held on 8th May, 2024, bringing together key stakeholders, including representatives from 4Life Solutions, Amref, and the Ministry of Health. During this event, the collaborators will provide further details on the partnership, its objectives, and discuss the potential impact it can have on the Mai Mahiu and Tana River communities. “We are grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside Amref on this important endeavor,” added Dr.
Benjamin. “Together, we can not only improve access to safe drinking water but also promote better health and well-being for the flood-affected communities.”

By Benard Mulwa

Hon Sarah Nyaenya, Kisii County advisor on matters of Cooperatives, agriculture, livestock, Fisheries, Veterinary and Extension Services has been appointed as a Commissioner and interim board member in KUSSCO even as Hon. Simon Chelugui the Cabinet Secretry Ministry of Coopetatives and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) inaugurates the newly SASRA board of directors at the Authority offices in Nairobi yesterday.

By Stephen Musyoka

The participation on proposed new graphic health warnings for tobacco products kicked off in Kisumu yesterday where a section of stakeholders who turned up to share their views accused the Ministry of Health (MoH) of laziness in coming up with the proposed warnings which are to be used on packaging of tobacco and nicotine products.

The public participation exercise in Kisumu was the second for the day, with another taking place concurrently in Nyeri. The Kisumu session was however marred with delays owing to lack of venue booking by the ministry, leading to a three-hour delay in commencing the proceedings

Stakeholders took on the MoH over what they said was lack of research on the Ministry’s part in formulating the new warning, adding that there’s need to ensure that the proposed warnings conform to existing laws.

The stakeholders asked the Ministry to rethink its approach to new products being introduced in the tobacco industry which, they say, is meant to help smokers transition from the more harmful traditional cigarettes to the less-riskier modern nicotine products.

Speaking at the exercise held at the Tom Mboya Labour College in Kisumu Harm Reduction Society of Kenya (HRS) Secretary-General, Dr. Michael Kariuki said they need a balanced approach to this issue and the Government through the Ministry of Health needs to engage stakeholders more in a bid to ensure that the health warnings being presented are aligned to the law.

“When coming up with these graphic health warnings, relevant authorities need to check whether they are appropriate and, particularly, whether they conform to the law because some of these products also need to have other information printed on them such as their composition, warnings, and manufacturers’ emblems.” Said Kariuki.