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Multichoice MD Nzola Miranda, PR Manager Elisha Kamau, Marketing Manager Maureen Sika, Digital and Products Manager Elsa Lunani unveiling GOtv stream App

Nairobi, December 1st, 2023.

BY NJOKI KARANJA

MultiChoice Kenya, Africa’s premier entertainment company, has today unveiled GOtv Stream, ushering in the festive season with the convenience for customers to catch up on their favorite shows, movies, and sports seamlessly on their smartphones, tablets, and web platforms.GOtv Stream App is a value-added service, designed to keep customers entertained anytime, anywhere, and on the go. With this app, customers can watch live TV and enjoy GOtv Catch Up and take charge of their content consumption, personalize their viewing experience, and access a host of features.

Therefore, the app will allow customers to set up individual profiles for personalized viewing experience as per their GOtv packages – Supa Plus, Supa, Max, Plus, and Lite and watch their favorite shows and movies at their convenience or download content for offline viewing.To access this service, customers need to have a GOtv subscription, a compatible device, a MultiChoice ID, and an internet connection. While anyone can download and use the GOtv Stream App, only GOtv subscribers can enjoy live TV channels and Catch-Up content linked to their specific package.GOtv Stream App will be available on wide range of devices including Android and IOS devices and users will be allowed to register up to four devices with their GOtv Stream App account, with streaming limited to one device at a time.

According to Nzola Miranda, Managing Director, MultiChoice Kenya: “This is a significant milestone in our quest to continue harnessing the power of technology and innovation to drive customer satisfaction and ensure that customers continue enjoying unmatched viewing experience. “We are in the festive season and what better way to provide a unique experience for our customers to catch their favorite shows through a different experience. With unparalleled content diversity, we are revolutionizing the way our customers consume content in the country. As Kenya’s leading storyteller, we are leading the way in embracing cutting edge streaming technology to deliver a seamless and immersive personalized viewing experience for our customers,” noted Mr. Miranda.

In addition, Elisha Kamau, Public Relations Manager at MultiChoice Kenya, noted, “We are excited to introduce GOtv Stream app to our customers. This app aligns with our commitment to delivering cutting-edge entertainment solutions that cater to our customers’ evolving needs and preferences. We believe this new offering will elevate the entertainment experience for our valued customers.”

In conclusion, the new app will allow customers to download up to 25 videos at a time, with a 30-day window to watch downloaded content before it expires. Once watched, downloaded content expires within 48 hours. The app will also enable customers manage and customize parental controls for kids’ profiles to ensure a safe and age-appropriate viewing experience. The GOtv Stream App marks a significant leap in enhancing customer control over their entertainment experience, offering more flexibility and convenience for enjoying content.

Multichoice MD Nzola Miranda, PR Manager Elisha Kamau, Marketing Manager Maureen Sika, Digital and Products manager Elsa Lunani unveiling GOtv stream App in Nairobi.

By Benard Mulwa

MultiChoice Kenya has today launched GOtv App enabling its audience to watch their favourite TV shows, live sports matches and all must see-movies on mobile device. GOtv App is an extension of the firms’ commitment to deliver quality, convenience and control right in to their customer hands.

As of December 1^st. 2023, GOtv stream App will be available for downloading on both iOs and Anddroid. All MultiChoice Kenya Customers will need to create their profile using their GOtv details before they can access all the packages with a total of 150 channels, as well as five GOtv digital terrestrial (DDT) packages broadcasting 24/7.

The GOtv stream App guarantees the customers their chosen content is always at their fingertips. According to the Managing Director, MultiChoice Kenya, Mr. Nzola Miranda, “we are in the festive season and what better way to provide a unique experience for our customers to catch their favorite shows through a different experience, whether you are lounging at home, on your way to work, waiting for your date to arrive or holidaying away with family, the App guarantees your chosen content is at your fingertips,” he said, adding that the firm is revolutionizing how its customers connect with their desired entertainment.  

The new App will allow customers to download up to 25 videos at a time, with a 30 day window to watch downloaded content before it expires. Once watched, downloaded content will expire within 48 hours.

The Public Relations Manager at MultiChoice Kenya, Mr. Elisha Kamau, said that the company is exited to introduce GOtv stream App for their customers. This service aligns perfectly with the company’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge entertainment solutions that cater to their customers’ evolving needs and preferences, “we believe this offering will elevate the entertainment experience for our valued customers, as Kenya’s leading storyteller, we are leading the way in embracing cutting-edge stream technology to deliver a seamless and immersive personalized experience for our customers” Mr. Elisha Kamau told journalists at the launch in Nairobi.    

The Hub Karen (THK) has announced its annual Christmas promotion that will accord one lucky family of four a Trip to Dubai.

Dubbed “SHOP & WIN,” the promotion will run from 25th November 2023 to 19th January 2024 and promises to enhance the experience for all shoppers who shop at the premier mall during the festive season.

The announcement was made during the lighting of the Christmas Tree over the weekend as guests to the mall enjoyed the ambience that the family-friendly, and lifestyle destination provides to thousands of guests each weekend.

Shoppers who spend KES 5,000 KES or more at The Hub Karen this season, can turn their purchases into unforgettable experiences through by simply entering their details into the raffle. The prizes that shoppers can look forward to are:

• FIRST PRIZE: A dream getaway for a family of four to Dubai.
• SECOND PRIZE: A luxurious two-night holiday for two at the prestigious and award-winning Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club in Nanyuki.
• THIRD PRIZE: 1,000 USD shopping vouchers, redeemable at any store within the mall.

Emphasizing that the promotion is not just about shopping but creating lasting memories and spreading the joy of the season, Sameh Ibrahim the Chief Operations Officer at The Hub Karen said,

“We know families are experiencing changes in their spending habits. That’s why we’re so excited to launch our ‘SHOP & WIN’ promotion; to share the joy of Christmas with our community and reward our shoppers with unforgettable experiences. We strive to create an atmosphere where everyone can come together and make memories and truly enjoy the warmth that the season brings.”

With open-air green spaces, THK stands out as a vibrant community centre where families can enjoy a safe and relaxing atmosphere. The Hub Karen is Nairobi’s leading premier family-friendly, entertainment, and lifestyle destination. With a commitment to creating a vibrant and sustainable community space, The Hub Karen offers a unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment experiences.

The mall’s open-air green spaces, innovative green practices, including solar energy and water recycling, reinforces its dedication to environmental responsibility making it stand out as a destination for families and individuals alike.

The Hub Karen invites the public to come in for a wide array of shopping, stay for some memorable experiences and stand a chance to win fantastic prizes that will make this festive season truly special.

By Meresia Aloo

At the National DESIP Family Planning Learning Conference 2023, the Chief Executive Officer of PS Kenya, Dr. Margaret Njenga, delivered a poignant address, placing a significant emphasis on the conference theme, “Succeeding together in creating impact through localizing global solutions.” Dr. Njenga underscored the pivotal role of family planning in the pursuit of universal healthcare coverage.

Addressing the economic challenges faced by Kenya, Dr. Njenga brought attention to the potential jeopardy of contraception access for thousands of girls. She stressed that no individual should be confronted with the distressing choice between contraception and fundamental necessities. Drawing on global data from the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Njenga called for collective action to overcome obstacles such as skills deficits, product quality concerns, issues of equity, and the influence of cultural and religious factors on family planning.

Advocating for a functional health system that places a premium on women’s well-being and shields them from financial hardships, Dr. Njenga praised the transformative impact of the DESIP Project across various levels—national, county, facility, and community. The conference served as a platform to showcase achievements and lessons, with a resolute commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that no one is left behind.

Dr. Njenga laid out ambitious objectives for the next five years, underscoring the critical need for funding to address the persistent underfunding and neglect of women and girls’ needs. She called upon partners to move beyond rhetoric, translating words into tangible actions and fostering sustainable investments for universal access to quality contraceptives.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Njenga urged active engagement, collaboration, and a united effort to make safe modern contraceptives universally available. Quoting Margaret Sanger, she reminded attendees that genuine freedom for women encompasses the conscious choice of motherhood. The call to action resonated strongly with the audience, highlighting the pressing urgency to address challenges and secure this fundamental human right for all.

By Meresia Aloo

In the heart of Karen, Nairobi, a dream transformed into reality as Mwenda Thuranira, the visionary Chief Executive Officer of Myspace Properties, unveiled the 27th Chandarana Foodplus branch at Mytown Karen Mall. Thuranira, drawing inspiration from New York Times bestselling author Kobi Yamada, reflected on the journey with gratitude and excitement.

“Follow your dreams because they know the way,” said Yamada, a sentiment echoing through Thuranira’s journey. Reflecting on the unwavering support of Mr. Anil Samani, Chairman of Myspace Properties, Thuranira likened the belief in his vision to a parent cheering on their child learning to ride a bike—an acknowledgment of trust and encouragement.

Embarking on this venture seven years ago, Thuranira described the climb as scaling mountains, one step at a time. Today marks the grand opening of Chandarana Foodplus at Mytown Karen, a culmination of dedication, perseverance, and the collective efforts of a mobilized team.

The Mytown Karen concept, embraced by intentional partners and brands like Total Energies, Wana Meat, Optica, Kary’s Hair Studio, Nail Bar, Lorenzo Drycleaners, Mega Wines Ltd, Mika Appliances, Life Med Pharmacy, Tibu Health Hospital, symbolizes the spirit of togetherness. Thuranira emphasized the profound impact of collaboration, stating, “If we had walked alone, we would be fast, but together, we have come far.”

In a dynamic economic landscape where online shopping gains prominence, Mytown Karen addresses the need for small commercial spaces. Businesses, adapting to challenging conditions, invest in compact physical spaces while prioritizing a robust online and social media presence for sales, stability, and growth.

As the online shopping culture evolves, the need for retail outlets persists, providing groceries, ice cream, clothes, and more. Thuranira envisions this project as a catalyst for wealth and job creation, contributing to a higher quality of life and enhancing the fabric of the community.

With a commitment to serving business owners nationwide, Thuranira looks ahead to collaborations in upcoming projects, spanning locations such as Kisumu, Mombasa, Athi River, Kisii, Upperhill, Waiyaki Way, and beyond.

Situated strategically opposite Karen Hospital and next to Watermark Business Park, Mytown Karen offers ample parking and a prime shopping experience for Langata road commuters, town traders, residents, and all those seeking a vibrant shopping environment.

Thuranira concluded by expressing gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this dream a reality, emphasizing, “To everyone that has made this dream a beautiful reality, I say, ‘Thank You.'” The opening of Chandarana Foodplus at Mytown Karen not only marks a new retail milestone but symbolizes the power of dreams and collaborative endeavors in shaping a community’s future.

Jeremiah Chunge Cofounder, Chief Technology and HR Officer at Etica Capital Limited

by Ben Kioko

Etica Capital Limited (ECL) is a wealth-tech company looking to revolutionize wealth management for retail investors through technology, by creating a platform that instills confidence in the investing public that breeds transparency, innovation and financial inclusion with as little as Ksh 100.

The Company aims at creating unique and innovative products that will aid in the
deepening of the capital markets in Kenya.
To offer attractive risk adjusted investment returns and financial flexibility to the clients. This is all done by considering democratizing investments through technology.

“We started the Etica Capital Company in July 2021 and did our submissions together with co-founders to the Capital Market Authority as the industry regulator for Licencing. From there, we decided to do technology deployment, for we wanted a wealth tech company to be technology driven. Developed our own in-house cloud network in order to fit our customization. From that, it is easy to develop our Mobile App, APIs and IOS.” Said Jeremiah Chunge Cofounder, Chief Technology and HR Officer at Etica Capital Limited.

Etica Unit Trust Fund comprises four sub-funds, highlighted below, which enable the client access to diverse regulated products that suit their needs. The fund’s governance is as below;

Money Market fund targets investors with a short-term investment horizon and offers them an opportunity to get attractive returns at the same time protecting their capital and offering liquidity. The fund primarily invests in short-term money market instruments.

Etica Fixed Income Fund invests in a diversified portfolio of fixed income securities such as government bonds, bank deposits and other fixed income instruments, with the aims of offering attractive returns by outperforming the income yield available on money market instruments and fixed deposit accounts and at the same time.

Etica Sharia Fund targets investors who are
looking for an investment opportunity that
follow the Islam principals of investing. The
fund holds a diversified portfolio of shariah-compliant investments and aims to
offer investors regular income.

Etica wealth fund targets sophisticated investors who have a medium-term investments horizon and allows clients to participate in a well-diversified portfolio that is able to offer attractive returns, by
investing in a wide range of securities including but not limited to treasury securities and corporate instruments.
Etica wealth fund is able to offer competitive
returns, above returns available in money
market instruments.The fund is compounded on a daily basis hence investors’ funds grow fast.
The fund is regulated by the Capital
Markets Authority and has oversight from
the Trustee to protect investors.

Combined industry track record (Tech +investments) include;

Successfully developed the 1st mobile based money market fund called MALI in partnership with Safaricom M- PESA with minimum investment amount of KES 100.
Successfully championed the 1st CMA sandbox project dubbed MALI (formerly Wekeza) and successfully exited with approval to launch. We also advised the regulator with recommendations in regulatory guidelines for digital-based investment channels.
100 percent cloud migration of Genghis Capital Investment bank’s technology infrastructure in 1 day successfully,
Won various Technology Awards 2018, 2019, 2020, as well as numerous appearances in events as thought leaders from 2018 –to-date.
Developed the most interactive mobile based application dubbed G-kuze that enables retail clients to digitally onboard, trade, and redeem any of the listed NSE stocks as well as invest in money market fund.
Guided UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) on CMA sandbox experience, areas of improvement, and engagements for implementation at the other regulators whom they were consulting with, namely CBK, RBA and IRA in Kenya. We also held a meeting at RBA to advise them on how to implement the sandbox process and it’s advantages in innovation and sector deepening.

Technology Investment;
Successfully managed investments portfolio size of over KES 150Bn across different licensed brands.
Set up and commissioned Asset Management division in 3 different organizations.

Management team at Etica Capital Ltd include;
Maurice W. Oduor who is the Chief Executive Officer
With 14 Years of Experience with a
Bachelor of Business Administration at
Maseno University, CFA level 3, ICIFA, CISI.

Name: Kenneth W. Maina
Title: Portfolio Manager
Years of Experience: over 10 years
Qualifications: BSc. Agricultural Economics- Moi
University, CPA K, CISI.

Name: Alice N. Kamau
Title: Risk & Compliance Officer
Years of Experience: over 5 years
Qualifications: BSc Mechanical Engineering – UON,
Diploma in Business &IT- Strathmore University, CISI.

Name: Jeremiah M. Chunge
Title: Chief Technology & HR Officer
Years of Experience: Over 16 Years
Qualifications: BSc – Information Science – Moi
University, Various Certifications in IT, HR and
Strategic Marketing

Name: Samuel M. Muia
Title: Head of Distribution & Business Development
Years of experience: Over 16 years
Qualifications: Bcom. Finance –CUEA, CPA II, CISI

Name: Alice T. Chege
Title: Head of Finance
Years of Experience: Over 7 years
Qualifications: Bcom. Finance – Kenyatta University, CPA K, Masters of Finance.

Martin mwarangu KTDA Group General Manager ICT

by Eric Ogott

Kenya Tea Development Agency Limited (KTDA) technology division led by Martin Mwarangu, was awarded as the Most Innovative Company and a Gold Mark of Recognition received at the CIO100 Awards held in Diani, Ukunda on November 24.

The award recognizes the innovative deployment of technology across the tea value chain for the benefit of tea farmers. The team presented three novel technology solutions – the use of the SAP ERP solution, enhancement in the Electronic Weighing System (EWS) and the recently launched KTDA Farmers App.

Martin has over 18 years of organizational and strategic leadership expertise gained in private and public sector organizations across the manufacturing, financial, and technology spheres.

He is an expert in formulating technology strategies and providing key insights and leadership in organizational digital transformation journeys, responsible for implementation of various industry solutions that meet the needs of various lines of business, guarantee quality service delivery to stakeholders, and enhance operational efficiencies.
He has received various recognitions for contributions in the technology space.

At KTDA, Martin has  been responsible for implementing SAP ERP and several other technologies that have led to huge costs reductions, enhanced business process efficiencies that have increased shareholder value and profits, put in controls that have enhanced business  governance.

The innovations have led to;
Improved customer experience and overall transparency, Inventory, stocks and assets traceability, Continued improved returns to the farmer by over 44 percent between 2021 to date, Improved governance structures along the tea value chain, Reduced greenleaf falsification cases by 50 percent and Reduced operational costs by over 30 percent.

KTDA ICT team members led by Group General Manager Martin Mwarangu (centre) display the award for Most Innovative Company and a Gold Mark of Recognition received at the CIO100 Awards held in Diani, Ukunda on November 24.

The solutions are geared towards improving efficiency across the tea chain, enhance customer experience and deliver better value for farmers and other stakeholders.

Going into the future, Martin is optimistic that the journey shall continue as KTDA aims to anchor technology around its business.

The Principal Secretary State Department for Technical, Vocational Education and Training Dr. Esther Thaara Muoria  today  presided over TVET Curriculum Development, Assessment and Certification Council (TVET CDACC) CEO handing over at TVET CDACC offices

BY ROBERT NJOYA

Today as we welcome the incoming CEO of TVET CDACC, it marks the beginning of a bright future in the TVET sector in Kenya. This moment symbolizes growth, progress and continuous pursuit of excellence .The Kenya Kwanza Government is angling towards industrialization and its banking on the TVET sector to spur industrialization in Kenya.

The occassion witnessed the outgoing CEO Mr. Joseph Njau hand over the mantle to Prof. Kisilu Kitainge Who will be the New CEO TVET CDACC. As the incoming CEO Prof. Kisilu Kitainge comes takes the mantle, I want to inform you that you have a big responsibility ahead of you.

In the realm of technical and vocational education and training, one name stands out as a beacon of progress and excellence: the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Curriculum Development, Assessment and Certification Council (TVET CDACC). This government organization in Kenya is unwavering in its dedication to enhancing the quality and relevance of technical and vocational education and training. With a laser focus on Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET), TVET CDACC has made remarkable strides in driving CBET implementation throughout the country.

It is through their tireless efforts that Kenya’s workforce is being equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving world.The journey towards CBET implementation has not been an easy one, but TVET CDACC has overcome every obstacle with determination and resilience. One of the most notable milestones achieved by this esteemed organization is the development of 446 National Occupational Standards (NOS). These standards serve as benchmarks for assessing the competency levels of individuals in various technical and vocational fields.

By setting these standards, TVET CDACC ensures that the skills acquired by students are aligned with industry requirements, thus enhancing their employability and enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the economy.But the development of NOS is just one aspect of TVET CDACC’s groundbreaking work in CBET implementation.

In conclusion, They have also played a pivotal role in curriculum development, crafting programs that are not only comprehensive but also responsive to the needs of both students and employers. By working closely with industry experts, TVET CDACC has been able to create curricula that strike the perfect balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills. This holistic approach to education ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the job market, making them highly sought after by employers.

Mr. Cosmas Mutava, Chairman Protective Security Industry Association.

By Benard Mulwa

The Association of Protective Security industry has challenged the government to operationalize the security wages Council, this comes as the Association disagreed with media reports express by the CEO of Private Security Regulatory Authority in the recent past.

Speaking to journalists in Nairobi today, the Chairman of the Association Mr. Cosmas Mutava, said the Association appreciate paying the security guards in accordance with the law as set out by the ministry of Labour, however it is not the mandate of Private Security Regulatory Authority to set up the minimum wage and the Association feel that the Authority is usurping the role of the ministry of labour.   

“It is expected the statement appearing in the media was a decision of the Private Security Regulatory Authority board and not one from the CEO of Private Security Regulatory Authority as individual” Cosmas Mutava statement reads in part.

The Chairman of the Association Mr. Cosmas Mutava said “we request Private Security Regulatory Authority to supply us with the list of accredited Schools where over 1.2 million security guards will be trained”.   

From Left: Capital Markets Authority CEO, Wycliffe Shamiah and Zimele Asset Management Chairman, David Ndii officially launch the Zimele ChamaManager platform

By Benard Mulwa

Chamas will now get a relief from the administrative processes and record keeping by the introduction of a digital investment platform, this comes as the Capital Market Authority (CMA) launches Zimele ChamaManager today.

Zimele ChamaManager is a product which focuses on how to mainstream Chamas and assists the retail investors by bringing them closer to where they get financial service and help them on how to invest the funds better for returns.

The platform comes with efficiency, flexibility, and transparency as all members of a chama will have access to the web-based platform. They will be able to access the chama’s account statement as well as their individual statements and will even get an alert anytime a transaction is initiated from the chama account.

Unveiling Zimele ChamaManager, Asset Management Joint CEO Isaac Njuguna said “In our 25 years of service, financial inclusion has always been at the core of our strategy. As a company, we have always endeavored to not only give our customers access to practical savings solutions at modest entry levels but also provide them with innovative products that are tailored to meet their savings and investment needs”.

The launch coincides with Zimele Asset Management’s 25th-anniversary celebration officiated by CMA Chief Executive Officer Wycliffe Shamiah who commended the company for spearheading innovative investment solutions that are geared towards financial inclusion. 

A Chama can open a Zimele savings plan account and manage it on the Zimele ChamaManager platform. Once the account is opened, a member can contribute to their account via mobile money or bank transfers. The signatories are able to initiate withdrawals to members or make payments when the Chama makes a purchase or investment are sent to a recipient’s mobile phone wallet or bank account.

“Our role as CMA involves not only regulating but also facilitating the development of the capital markets. Today, we come together to applaud Zimele’s remarkable 25-year journey of development. Consistent performance and commitment to excellence. Amidst the tough operating domestic and global macro-economic environment, Kenya’s capital markets has remained stable. Assets under management for collective investment schemes have grown steadily over the last six years by KES. 265 per cent from KES. 56.6 million in March 2018 to KES. 206.7 billion as of September 2023. Similarly, Zimele’s asset under management has grown tremendously by 220 per cent from KES. 895 million in March 2018 to KES. 2.9 billion as of September 2023. This is proof of Zimele’s remarkable efforts and outstanding growth,” said CMA CEO Wycliffe Shamiah.