The National Assembly Education Committee, conducted a fact-finding visit to the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) premises. During our meeting with Basic Education PS Dr. Belio Kipsang and KNEC CEO Dr. David Njeng’ere, we deliberated on critical issues affecting our education system.
Firstly, we raised concerns about the practice of charging for text messages to check candidates’ examination results. We argued that since the government pays for the exams fee for all the candidates, the same candidates should not be charged to check their results.
In our pursuit of transparency, we requested more detailed information about the SMS charges, a commitment that PS Kipsang assured would be fulfilled and presented before our esteemed house team.
We also questioned the agency on the validity of the recently released KCPE 2023 results, expressing concerns about reports of schools where learners supposedly scored similar marks and marks which were not properly entered. In response, PS Kipsang provided reassurance, stating that the Ministry, upon thorough investigation, found no evidence supporting such allegations.
In a heartwarming tribute to commend the unwavering dedication and extraordinary care exhibited by Rozah, a Kenyan caregiver working in Lebanon, Expeditions Maasai Safaris proudly announces an all-expenses-paid trip for Rozah and her beloved family to the incredible Masai Mara, the best safari destination in the world.
Rozah captured the hearts of many worldwide when a touching TikTok video showcased the emotional farewell from the Arab family she has diligently cared for in Lebanon. The outpouring of love between Rozah and the children she nurtures illuminated the profound connection they share.
“We were deeply moved by Rozah’s story and her incredible bond with the family she serves in Lebanon. Her selflessness and love embody the spirit of compassion that we cherish at Expeditions Maasai Safaris,” said Pancras Karema, CEO of Expeditions Maasai Safaris.
As a token of appreciation for her exceptional commitment, Expeditions Maasai Safaris has extended booked her family to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Masai Mara, an adventure-filled journey that celebrates her dedication.
The trip, encompassing a curated itinerary to explore the wonders of Masai Mara, will immerse Rozah and her family in Kenya’s rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
“We believe in celebrating individuals like Rozah, whose devotion and kindness inspire us. This journey to Masai Mara is a small gesture to honor her incredible spirit and the profound impact she makes every day,” added Pancras Karema.
Expeditions Maasai Safaris is thrilled to facilitate this memorable trip, expressing gratitude to Rozah for her remarkable contributions.
For further inquiries or media requests, please contact info@expeditions.co.ke
About Expeditions Maasai Safaris: Expeditions Maasai Safaris is a renowned travel agency in Kenya, dedicated to offering unforgettable safari experiences and celebrating the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Magical Kenya.
The 2023 Consumers International Global Congress opened its three days meeting in Nairobi on Wednesday December 6th, 2023 and was honoured to be opened officially by the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya Rigathy Gachagua as the chief guest.
Speaking to the press on his own capacity as a delegate representing Consumer Information Network ( C.I.N ), Mr Samuel Ochieng the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the organization underscored the importance of the congress holding this International meeting in the country and he applauded the Consumers Authority of Kenya (CAK) who are the host of this 2023 congress saying it’s a great recognition especially having the Deputy President as the chief guest.
Mr Ochieng who is also the President emeritus of the Consumer Information Network which was established in 1960.
This 2023 Consumers International Global Congress happening in Nairobi, is the first one to happen in Kenya and the second one in Africa. The first one of this kind in the continent of Africa took place in Durban South Africa.
He said he was hopeful that in the coming days there is a need to for all stakeholders involved in the Consumer protection to have a holistic engagement adding that consumer protection simply is about things like weighs and measures those basic things; even about the inspection of meat that people consume etc they are all consumers protection which calla for the need to have a more encompassing engagement.
” Consumer Rights in the Bill of Rights we are given 5 years to enact a law that would then protect consumers. But what we have now is a consolidation Act which is not very active; it establishes what we call Kenya Consumer Protection Advisory Committee. We had anticipated that we would have an authority and not an advisory committee.” Said Samuel Ochieng; the President Emeritus of C.I.
” But we hope it will graduate and get into an authority which will have teeth that can bite even to the point of having authority of moving into shelves and supermarkets and remove products that are harmful to consumers or those which are counterfeit ” he said.
The 2023 Consumers International Global Congress opened its three days meeting in Nairobi on Wednesday December 6th, 2023 and was honoured to be opened officially by the Deputy President of the Republic of Kenya Rigathy Gachagua as the chief guest.
Speaking to the press on his own capacity as a delegate representing Consumer Information Network ( C.I.N ), Mr Samuel Ochieng the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the organization underscored the importance of the congress holding this International meeting in the country and he applauded the Consumers Authority of Kenya (CAK) who are the host of this 2023 congress saying it’s a great recognition especially having the Deputy President as the chief guest.
Mr Ochieng who is also the President emeritus of the Consumer Information Network which was established in 1960.
This 2023 Consumers International Global Congress happening in Nairobi, is the first one to happen in Kenya and the second one in Africa. The first one of this kind in the continent of Africa took place in Durban South Africa.
He said he was hopeful that in the coming days there is a need to for all stakeholders involved in the Consumer protection to have a holistic engagement adding that consumer protection simply is about things like weighs and measures those basic things; even about the inspection of meat that people consume etc they are all consumers protection which calla for the need to have a more encompassing engagement.
” Consumer Rights in the Bill of Rights we are given 5 years to enact a law that would then protect consumers. But what we have now is a consolidation Act which is not very active; it establishes what we call Kenya Consumer Protection Advisory Committee. We had anticipated that we would have an authority and not an advisory committee.” Said Samuel Ochieng; the President Emeritus of C.I.
” But we hope it will graduate and get into an authority which will have teeth that can bite even to the point of having authority of moving into shelves and supermarkets and remove products that are harmful to consumers or those which are counterfeit ” he said.
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.
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.
On his part, 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.”
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.
Notably, this marks his first official trip to a Commonwealth country since ascending to the English throne following the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth II late last year.
Mr. James Mwangi ,ACCPA has recognize the relationship between Kenya and the United Kingdom in areas of trade and exchange in our diverse cultures and the importance of this visit which seeks to strengthen those bonds.”
In his statement,to the media, they feel this is an opportune moment to raise key issues of concern regarding the conduct of British military personnel and wish to get the attention of His Majesty King Charles III and Queen Camilla and the British government.
While addressing the media Mr. James Mwangi ACCPA spokesperson said they are acknowledging the importance of the partnerships between two governments,it reads that they express dissatisfaction in the way the British government has handled several matters pertaining the conduct of the British Army under Batuk with whom Kenya has had a long-standing relationship.
It notably that it has been 11 and a half years since Agnes Wanjiru, a hairdresser based in Nanyuki, was brutally murdered by personnel under Batuk. This has since been proven by a public inquest which was concluded on November 5, 2019. Nonetheless, the killers of Agnes Wanjiru continue to walk free and the British authorities have been complicit in not only covering up the murder but also shielding justice.
“It is important to note that we are aware that the key suspect in the murder of Agnes is well known former medic in the British Army and his identity is an ‘open secret’ within the British military ranks. However, it is quite disappointing and appalling that British authorities continue shielding the suspect from justice despite pledging full cooperation in the matter where Kenya has full jurisdiction.” Mr. James says
The United Kingdom prides itself in respecting the rule of law and dispensing justice as has been portrayed in recent transnational investigations including the Julian Assange matter, just to mention but a few.
Kenya on its part has also demonstrated cooperation in transnational investigations and assisted in extradition of suspects wanted by British authorities.
It is therefore a wonder why the UK has failed to do the same in the matter of Agnes Wanjiru. Why do the British authorities continue to shield the suspect and deny Kenyan authorities access to the suspect, witnesses and persons of interest in this case? Why the double standards?.
CAPTION: Naivas Kingara Road branch which recently took the honours for being the host of the #RoadTo100. PIC by Tum David.
by Tum David
Excitement times are here once again for the esteemed Naivas customers countrywide as the Retailer launched its 13th edition of the KIKWETU Christmas Campaign 2023/2024.
This year’s Chrismas campaign marks the 13th edition since the launch of the first Kikwetu in 2011.
Kikwetu which simply translates to ” Our Way ” has endeavoured over the years to remain authentically Kenyan while delivering memorable experiences to customers through thematic campaigns during the festive seasons.
The campaign seeks to welcome Kenyans to celebrate this new journey of going beyond 100 – with this being truly their cause for celebration and Kenyans deserve something positive to celebrate.
The season also reminds Kenyans that no matter how big the business grows, Naivas shall maintain the local and personal touch. NAIVAS KIKWETU will continue to serve them diligently as always have with unmistakably Kenyan hospitality.
” It’s for this reason that we’re officially launching our 13th edition dubbed “NAIVAS KIKWETU FIESTA” and with a lot of humility we’re saying ‘ asante Kenya for 100 Naivas Kilocols’. Said Peter Mukuha, Naivas Chief of Operations.
The campaign will run from Friday October 27, 2023 to the 18th of January 2024 covering both the entire festive season and January BTS.
Abuja – Nigeria, October 16, 2023 – Hundreds of Government representatives, Policymakers, Civil Society organizations, and other partners from Africa convenes for the first conference on the Acceleration of Agricultural Adaptation in Africa.
The three-day conference organized by the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance and the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria together with other partners seeks to galvanize a critical mass of Actors towards accelerated agricultural adaptation, including stimulating smallholder farmers’ proactive engagement in international climate dialogue and intervention processes.
During the opening ceremonies, Dr. Sadiq Wanka, the Special Advisor to the Vice presidents of the Federal Republic of Nigeria thanked the organizers and reminded them that it takes place at the moment Africa’s agriculture is still depending on rain and while farming communities are plunging into further uncertainty as a result of climate-inspired erratic rainfall and shifting seasons, pastoralist communities have lost much of their livestock, including camels, cattle, goats and sheep to the raging weather events. “The inaugural conference on accelerating agriculture adaptation is key to galvanizing the critical mass of Actors towards accelerated agricultural adaptation, including stimulating smallholder farmers’ proactive engagement in international climate dialogue and intervention processes”. He added
Dr. Salisu Dahiru, the Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC) and Head of the Secretariat, Federal Republic of Nigeria reiterated the importance of the conference as it is expected to be the space for exchange and innovation.
“The importance of this conference cannot be overstated. It stands as a crucial platform where we can unite, share knowledge, and engage in fruitful discussions on strategies and solutions that will pave the way for sustainable agricultural practices in Africa, even in the face of climate adversities. we hope to embark on a journey towards securing the future of food production and ensuring the well-being of our communities.” Dr Dahilu stressed.
Speaking about Accelerating Agricultural adaptation in Africa, Prof. Anthony Nyong, the Director of Climate Change and Green Growth at the Africa Development Bank said that the bank has set four pillars to ensure change in the agriculture sector happens with success. He said that to address the social economic and sustainable agenda in agriculture AfDB set four pillars namely climate smart digital technologies for agriculture and food security, Africa infrastructure resilience accelerator; empowering youth for entrepreneurship and job creation in climate adaptation and resilience; and innovative finance initiatives.
“The African Development Bank recognizes that achieving sustainability in our countries hinges upon the development of crucial sectors, with agriculture emerging as one of the most significant avenues for success”. He continued to add
Mrs. Drita Dade, the Senior Natural Resources Management Specialist who represented the World Bank country office in Nigeria commended the conference and asserted that the inaction in addressing climate challenges not only jeopardizes food security but also heightens susceptibility to extreme weather events, places rural communities’ livelihoods at risk, and intensifies the strain on already stressed natural resources.
The African Development Bank estimates that adaptation and resilience costs for the continent will reach up to $30 billion per annum by 2030.
Augustine Njamnshi, the chair of Technical and Political Affairs, at PACJA, stressed that it’s imperative to think of adaptation but also look beyond the simple concept of adaptation. “Adaptation in the agriculture sector is an urgent priority for our region. It is a matter of survival, protecting the livelihoods of millions of farmers, ensuring food security for our growing population, and preserving our rich natural resources for generations to come. We must act with a sense of urgency, with a recognition that the time for action is now”, added Augustine Njamnshi.
This is the first agricultural conference taking place in Africa with a focus on shaping the future of the sector in the climate-changing context. Participants will engage in deep discussions and presentations focusing on the leveling of capacities and context setting; policy and funding landscape for accelerating adaptation in the sector; pathways to low carbon resilient agricultural systems in Africa, advancing inclusions in agriculture for women, youth, pastoralists, and other excluded groups in the context of current climate realities; Just transition in African adaptation agriculture and food systems, and raising ambition and visibility of African Agricultural Adaptation in Abu Dhabi.
CAPTION: Photos of the newly opened Naivas Kingara Road, the outlet which carried the honour of the #RoadTo100 success. Pic By Tum.
BY TUM DAVID The ambitious dream by the Naivas Supermarket dubbed #RoadTo1OO was achieved on Thursday October 12th, 2023 when the retailer opened its 100th store in Nairobi.
The outlet which carried the great honour of being the 100th store, is the Naivas FoodMarkert Kingara Road in Lavington in Nairobi superbs.
Naivas Supermarket has now hit its triple digits in store count, 100 branches countrywide. This is a historic moment for the Kenyan history, as this is a feat that no other supermarket in Kenya, be it local or international, has managed to achieve.
” But for us, it’s never been about store numbers. It’s been about staying relevant, staying relevant to put customers but also staying relevant as a business because I my that way can we continue to grow and thrive and support all of those stakeholders who walk with us.” Said Andreas Von Paleske the Chief of Strategy of Naivas during the opening ceremony of the 100th store.
Naivas Supermarket has come a long way evolving from a general store founded in the rural town of Rongai in Nakuru County to the leading retailer in the country. For Naivas, this is nothing short of a success story punctuated by commitment and resilience. To the business, the number 100 holds special significance to the retailer and will forever be atched in the annals of its history.
” 100 is just a number, just a milestone. But I would want to say this, it’s just a beginning. This is where now we need to break the next record and make sure that a Kenyan company . . . and I repeat, a Kenyan company’s competing with internationals . . . that’s my target and I think it’s our target with our suppliers with our customers and with our staff.” remarked Naivas Foubder and Managing Director David Kimani.
The Naivas MD said it has taken 33 years 2 months and 12 days to hit the great milestone. This means that the founding family, the Mukuhas had set the right foundation which ensured that the business grew and was able to attract even foreign investments.
The chain’s management gives credit to their committed investors a consortium led by IBL which includes Proparco and DEG who have been instrumental in strengthening the retailer’s corporate governance.
Education Cabinet Secretary (CS) Ezekiel Machogu on the second opening of the African Continental Qualification framework (ACQF )training urges African nations to bridge between education and work . Both Principal Secretaries Dr Juma Mukwana Principal Secretary state department (PS ) and Dr Esther Muoria principal Secretary (PS) vacational and technical training emphasised on value and qualifications which will be undergoing pragmatic dynamic transformation.
According to Machogu he considers Africa as a pivotal juncture in evolution of labour market in education system and champions policies that adapt in response to the seismic shift expanding their embracing and digital age . As she convened the second opening of Workshop she said that globally, there is an urgent need to fortify our qualifications frameworks.
A country that invests in policies aiming to give credibility and align qualifications with emerging global trends is a foresighted nation. The role, value, and currency of qualifications are undergoing a profound transformation, influenced by global megatrends that have reshaped our world.
These megatrends, includes digitalization, automation, demographic shifts, climate change, and the unprecedented challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic which have significantly altered the link between our education systems and the labor market that will not only contribute to Sustainable Development but also the boarder objectives of skil revolution ,social inclusion and enhancement of employability for every segment of the population. “We must build a bridge between education and work, underpinned by qualifications of the highest quality that are trustworthy and recognized at all levels” said the Esther Muoria principal secretary (PS ) Vactional and Technical training. Acting Director of Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA) Dr Alice Kande wholeheartedly acknowledged the vital role of qualification framework in defining the relavance and quality of education .
In her speech she noted that the pursuit of knowledge and honouring skills are the ones that navigate the uncharted waters of the evolving world .she also emphasized on the significance of African nations developing their qualifications framework and to consider the issue of education reforms that will have positive impacts and response to the labour market.
According to KNQA Council Chairperson and former Baringo Governor Stanley Tipis implementation of ACQF is a timely interventionthat are aimed at addressing ills that have previously plagued the continent education system .The education reforms will bring pragmatic response in the labour market.
