Category: Uncategorized

Elizabeth Thande, Chairperson – East African Women in Business Platform (EAWiBP).

By NJOKI KARANJA

The East Africa Women in Business Platform (EAWIBP) in collaboration with GIZ Business earlier today hosted a dynamic capacity building workshop that aims to empower women in agribusiness and as well teach them about branding, digital marketing skills, e-commerce and provide them with knowledge on how to manage e-commerce platforms. The workshop, facilitated by respective experts, includes practical exercises and case studies tailored to the agribusiness sector. The workshop is facilitated by EAWiBP Officials, GIZ Business.

In an effort towards fostering the empowerment of women in the agribusiness sector, EAWIBP and GIZ Business for Development today collaborated to host a dynamic capacity-building workshop. The workshop brought together aspiring and established women entrepreneurs eager to enhance their skills in branding, packaging, digital marketing, and e-commerce.

The training insightful sessions delivered by prominent figures in the industry, including Elizabeth Thande, the esteemed Chairperson of EAWIBP. Thande’s expertise provided invaluable insights into the challenges and opportunities within the agribusiness landscape, inspiring participants to leverage their potential and overcome barriers.

Edda Otieno, representing GIZ Business Scouts for Development in Kenya, brought a wealth of knowledge to the table. Her engaging presentation delved into the intricacies of digital marketing and e-commerce, shedding light on strategies that women in agribusiness can employ to thrive in the ever-evolving market.

Participants had the opportunity to actively engage in discussions, share experiences, and network with like-minded individuals. The collaborative spirit was evident as women exchanged ideas on effective branding techniques, innovative packaging solutions, and the transformative power of digital platforms in expanding market reach.
The organizers expressed their commitment to fostering a supportive ecosystem for women in agribusiness, emphasizing the need for continuous skill development to navigate the competitive landscape successfully. The workshop’s success was attributed not only to the expertise of the speakers but also to the enthusiasm and dedication of the participants.

Edda Otieno, Advisor – GIZ Business Scouts for Development

Therefore,the objective of the workshop, which runs from 13th to 14th December, 2023, is to consider strategies for enhancing women participation agribusiness and mainstreaming gender in the implementation of the AfCFTA.

The East African Women in Business Platform (EAWiBP) is a forum that brings together business-women from across the East African Community (EAC). Its membership and Steering Committee comprises of; national apex bodies/ associations/ networks of business-women (including associations of women formal and informal cross-border traders); professional women associations; and civil society organizations working to promote business-women and women’s socio-economic advancement.

In conclusion, the platform works in each East African country through national business and professional associations across the region and by virtue of this currently represents over 20,000 business and professional women in the region. The platform also works closely with the EAC Gender Community Development and CSOs Department to design gender inclusive positions on a variety of issues.

Uganda National Day celebration currently underway at the EAC MSMEs Trade Fair in Bujumbura, Burundi, honored by the presence of Uganda’s Minister of State for East African Community Affairs, Hon. James Magode Ikuya.

Addressing the gathering, MSEA Board Chairman James Mureu expressed gratitude for Uganda’s valuable partnership and collaboration with Kenya, emphasizing their joint efforts in fostering the growth of the MSMEs sector.

He encouraged exhibitors to capitalize on the networks established during the trade fair, urging them to expand their businesses beyond borders in alignment with the event’s theme.

He emphasized the importance of dedicated efforts to contribute to the economic development of their respective countries.

The Honorable Cabinet Secretary for Investment Trade and Industry Rebecca Miano, was on Tuesday honoured and deeply grateful to His Excellency The President Dr. William Samoei Ruto for conferring upon her the Elder of the Order of the Golden Heart (EGH).

Hon CS Miano in humble acceptance noted,

“This recognition extends beyond me, it is a tribute to every dedicated individual shaping Kenya’s investment, trade, and industrialization landscape, driving our economic growth. Together, let’s continue in our pursuit for excellence and prosperity.
I share this with my incredible team and our vibrant nation. Asante sana!

Irene Njoki aka Mrembo na Kazi is the Member of Parliament elected to represent Bahati Constituency in the National Assembly.

She is focused, dedicated and committed, so much so that recent opinion pollsters have been ranking her upwards of 70% in popular rating and leading in Nakuru County, trouncing her counterparts who are serving their second or third terms in Parliament.

She takes a moment to reflect on her vision of positively transforming Bahati for prosperity and progress.

“Tuesday 12th December marked a significant milestone as our country commemorates 60 years of independence from colonial powers. Here in Bahati constituency, the spirit of celebration is heightened by the recent completion of the last mile Electrification project in Kamburi Dunduri ward, illuminating progress in our community.

We also anticipate the initiation of the transformation of our rural roads. The once dusty trails of Kabatini-mailisita, Malisaba-karunga, lanet posta-Oasis are soon undergoing an upgrade to bitumen standard, symbolizing the tangible progress we’re achieving in infrastructure development.

In a notable stride toward inclusive development, the national Affordable housing project reached our constituency before many others, creating job opportunities for our youths through the construction of 200 units.

Collaborating effectively with the national government, i successfully lobbied for boreholes in newsite area in Bahati ward and Kiamunyeki area at the assistant chiefs ground.This achievement marks the beginning of a solution to the perennial problem of limited access to clean water, a crucial step towards improving the quality of life for our residents.

In a groundbreaking shift for NG-CDF projects, I’ve initiated a novel approach by having stakeholders involvement before commencement of the projects and halting the creation of new buildings onto school play grounds without putting into consideration the master plans. Instead, our focus is on constructing multi-storey classrooms on existing spaces to optimize play space for our pupils and students. The implementation has already commenced at Mikeu Primary School in Dunduri Ward and Lanet Primary School, marking a progressive stride in educational infrastructure development.

In alignment with the nation’s pursuit of a bottom-up economic plan, I am committed to ensuring that Bahati constituency remains at the forefront of development. Collaborating with fellow leaders, we will work tirelessly to address the unique interests and needs of our community, ensuring that no one is left behind on the path to progress.”

Kenya Airways and Serena Hotels have announced a new partnership for members of their respective loyalty programs, Asante Rewards and Serena Prestige Club, with a range of benefits to make their travel experiences richer and more rewarding.
In this partnership Kenya airways elite plus platinum and gold Asante Rewards members will now have lifetime platinum status membership in Serena Loyalty program prestige club whereas the Silver elite Asante members will now enjoy Gold status in Serena prestige club.
Members of both programs will enjoy discounted offers on food, beverage accommodation and flights. Kenya Airways has an offer extending 10% discount off flights available on KQ.com to its loyalty members valid until 15th May 2024 whereas Serena has extended festive offers of up to 18% on accommodation valid to 15th Jan and on food and beverage valid until 31st March.
Kenya Airways, Chief Commercial and Customer Officer, Julius Thairu commented: “This partnership aims to delight our customers with complimentary offers throughout their journeys and travels across Africa to make the entire travel journey smoother, more rewarding, and undoubtedly more exciting.”
He added: “By merging the unparalleled services of Kenya Airways with the exclusive perks of Serena hotels Loyalty Program, we are embarking on a journey to redefine convenience, luxury, and reward for our cherished customers.”
This collaboration with Kenya Airways aligns with Serena Hotels’ strategy to build business partnerships that enable the Group, a premium East African hospitality player, to build connections and to meet its business objectives whilst creating memorable experiences for its loyal clients. Serena Hotels and Kenya Airways will be able to leverage on each entity’s strengths, offering a harmonious blend of exclusive privileges, seamless travel experiences, and unforgettable stays.
Through this collaboration, Serena Prestige Club extends a warm welcome to Asante Rewards members, inviting them to enjoy memorable experiences at Serena City Hotels in Nairobi, Kampala, Dar es Salaam, Kigali, Maputo, and Goma. Preferential discounts at the hotels’ Food and Beverage outlets are available for Ruby, Silver, and Gold Asante Rewards members. Gold and Platinum Asante Rewards members in addition to the food and beverage discounts, can also enjoy special accommodation offers.
Rosemary Mugambi, Sales and Marketing Director, Serena Hotels, Africa commented: It is said that when two elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers. We say that when two leading players come together to partner, the ultimate winners are our loyal clients!”

Kenya Airways Asante Rewards program was launched earlier in the year as an appreciation of customer loyalty by the airline. It allows customers to get greater value from their flying experience in form of redeemable points which can be earned from flights operated by Kenya Airways or any of its partners such as Serena.
Through the Asante Rewards Loyalty Program, Kenya Airways customers can redeem their points for benefits such as reward ticket flights, seat upgrades, extra baggage allowance, priority services, seat selections and many more rewards.
The introduction of Asante Rewards was in response to the need for a loyalty program curated with the African market and dynamics in mind. This was also in line with the airline’s commitment to innovate and develop products and services that ensure an enhanced and delightful customer end-to-end experience.
The Asante Rewards Loyalty Program offers customers four tiers which they can grow into as they accrue their points. These are: Silver, Ruby, Gold, and Platinum each offering unique benefits and privileges to ensure customers have a more rewarding experience when travelling with Kenya Airways.
Members earn points every time they fly with Kenya Airways or its partners. Members earn points on all qualifying fares and products on Kenya Airways. The number of points earned depends on destination, fare type and class of travel.
Points reflect in a members account within 24 hours after a flight. All customers are awarded with 1000 points automatically on enrolment.

About Serena Hotels
Serena Hotels offers quality accommodation in a collection of 22 up-market hotels, safari lodges, camps and resorts within 7 countries in the Eastern Africa region (Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Uganda, Rwanda, Mozambique and DR Congo) and 11 properties in Asia (Afghanistan, Pakistan and Tajikistan). These properties are strategically located to offer exciting circuits for guests in some of the most exquisite and prime locations in Eastern Africa and Asia. With a focus on product, service standards and guest satisfaction, Serena Hotels continues in its quest to be the hotel of choice for the discerning traveller providing guests with quality accommodation, conference and holiday solutions. Serena takes pride in the level of personal care and warmth of welcome that it extends to its guests. Each Serena property is designed to complement its environment while nurturing the landscape, culture, and community that surrounds it. The Serena Group leads the industry in East African eco-awareness and eco-policy implementation.
The Serena Prestige Club is the brands loyalty program that aims to inspire loyal members to derive maximum value from their travel and stays at Serena Hotels. Within this exclusive club, members are accorded royal treatment, and their patronage is met with distinguished recognition, accompanied by a host of special benefits tailored to enhance their travel experiences.
About Kenya Airways
Kenya Airways, a member of the Sky Team Alliance, is a leading African airline flying to 42 destinations worldwide, 35 of which are in Africa. In 2022 the World Travel Awards recognized KQ as Africa’s Leading Airline, Africa’s Leading Airline Brand, Africa’s Leading Airline – Business Class, and Africa’s Leading Inflight Magazine (Msafiri). In 2023 KQ was awarded Best Airline Staff in Africa at the prestigious Skytrax World Airline Awards. KQ’s fleet comprises of wide-body Boeing aircraft that includes its flagship B787 Dreamliner and narrow-body Embraer E190 aircraft.
The on-board service is renowned worldwide and the lie-flat business class seat on the wide body aircraft is consistently voted among the world’s top 10. Kenya Airways takes pride in being at the forefront of connecting Africa to the World and the World to Africa through its hub at the new ultra-modern Terminal 1A at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi.

It’s a mega entry for Naivas into Kakamega

By Tum David

NAIVAS Supermarket has brought Kakamega residents into a early Chrismas mood when the giant foodstore made its maiden entry into the Western territory of Kakamega town with a new branch number 101.

Located at a newly constructed Cathedral Mall, the outlet is the anchor tenant occupying about 32,000 sq feet of trading space.

This is not only a momentous occasion for the ever expanding supermarket, the retailer enters this new territory and other interior towns because it has commenced its journey of growing beyond 100 mark. The chainstore now boasts of 101 branches in the country Kakamega town being its mega entry.

The mega opening in Kakamega is particularly exciting given that it comes right in the middle of the festive season of the annual national consumer promotion referred to as KIKWETU.

This year’s campaign is dubbed: Naivas Kikwetu Fiesta and it has brought happy moments to the people of Kakamega who joined in the celebrations by adding the ISIKUTI flavour to the fiesta.

The management of this leading retailer expressed their delight that they have finally made an entry into Kakamega which has certainly been the most requested branch in the recent past.

” I’m proud that we’ve finally been able to fulfil this long standing request by the great people of Kakamega. They say good things take time and we’ve taken time, and we’ve listened to our customers, understood their needs and we’ve therefore come up with a store that not only meets but also exceeds the needs of our Kakamega shoppers”, remarked Mr Peter Mukuha.

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.

by David Tum

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.

By Tum David

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.