Nominated Mombasa Senator Miraj Abdillahi has accused local leaders affiliated to the Azimio side of misleading the public on port privitasitaion.

Speaking in Waa, Kwale county, Miraj called on the local leaders to be careful with their utterances and avoid misleading the public.

"My colleagues are going round complaining that they were involved or consulted. Everything in government has a process, this government went round selling its agenda to the people of Kenya and if part of that agenda and plan is to partner with investors why should oppose it. " argued Miraj.

Adding "KPA management and the government have done a feasibility study and established which areas need to be improved. When that time for public participation comes you will all be invited including me and if there are issues that we will find are not good for us then that is the time we will complain. Do not evoke emotions of our people through your utterances during public functions."

Miraj called on the elected leaders to raise their issues in parliament.

Miraj charged "You are elected leaders , lets face in parliament. You keep on complaining that there are thieves in this government why don't you go to parliament and name them." 

Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Nassir has been on an aggressive advocacy campaign opposing the Port privatization.

Nassir said that Mombasa residents will not benefit after privatisation.

"We are not opposed to development, but we speak on behalf of millions of residents who may not be able to speak for themselves. We ask what is in it for the people of Mombasa in the privatization of their Port?" He said.

Miraj further called on Coast residents to stop complaining that they have been marginalised by the current government.

"You cannot complain that this government has marginalised us as the people of Coast. I'm a nominated senator from Mombasa, here in Kwale you have a nominated senator and a CS. We have a speaker and a CS from Kilifi county, lets give credit where credit is due."

Youth in the coastal region have been told to embrace emerging innovation and technologies to grow and build resilient businesses.

Speaking during the first day of the Pwani innovation week 2023, Swahili pot hub founder Mahmoud Noor said young people must stay innovative to create employment for themselves.

The innovation week which will run for the whole week will also involve workshops to train youth on intellectual property and innovation protection, how to break barriers in gender and equality innovation and how to master strategies for success in modern business strategies.

Noor said youth have embraced innovations ready to tap into the economic potential that comes along with it.

The innovation week that has attracted hundreds of innovations and exhibitors

“We will link them with financial institutions so that their innovations can get financial funding and ready markets, we will also let them learn from mentors who will guide them through,” said Noor.

This is the fourth time the event is being held in Mombasa where youth showcase their innovations for sustainable development.

Noor said some of the innovations are targeting information communication sectors, ICT sectors, security among others.

"When they are good innovators we recommend them to the government to earn a living, we ask the youth to be patient and hardworking so that they can earn a living,” emphasized Noor.

At least 70 exhibitors are taking part in the Pwani innovation week and Swahili pot hub boss says 1,300 people have registered to take part.

On her part Farhiya Jamal, one of the participants said the event is significant since it will create an entrepreneurship ecosystem and empower hundreds of youth.

“What we want to achieve from the Pwani innovation week is to have jobs created, youth being empowered, catalyzing job opportunities so that we can create young entrepreneurs,” she said.

The dockworkers union has asked the government to put on hold the concession plans of Mombasa and Lamu port services to pave the way for public participation.

Led by the dock workers union secretary general Simon Sang asked the government to reverse the plan, and restart it afresh, so that players can understand what it means for the sector. Sang blames the government for rushing things since as it stands, they have not been involved.

The proposed stakeholders are Mombasa county government, the dockworkers union, local communities, and politicians among others. He says they learnt about the matter when it was advertised, without stakeholder’s node.

The dockworkers union (DWU), which represents over 7,000 Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) workers, has therefore asked that the plan be stopped until the process is undertaken through public participation with involvement of all players.

“concession means there will be a decrease in direct employment at the Kenya ports Authority, but  there will be an increase of jobs outside the port, direct employment in the port we are like 7,000 people, if we concession, there is a possibility that the jobs will gradually decline to almost 5,000 jobs,”said Sang.

He added “The concession simply means there will be a plus outside to the bigger economy and a minus to the employment of Kenya ports authority, that is what happens,”.

Although they are not opposed to the concession plan, (DWU) top brass says concessioning some services in the two ports will directly affect their members, through decline of job opportunities.

“It is premature to ask the dockworkers union if it is in support of concessioning or not. The question should be the advantages of concessioning or remaining what we are today,” sang posed during a media briefing at the Union offices in Mombasa on Sunday.

The Port Workers Union says it understands that the concession process is under the Big Four Agenda and particularly the aspect of industrialization captured in the 2017-27 national strategic plan.

Sang says similar ports in the world like the port of Singapore have been successful, but according to Sang,in Kenya, the matter was being rushed without having all players directly involved in the plan.

“This is not a new project. It came into light in 2021-22 when it was hinted by the then cabinet secretary for treasury when he was approached by Dubai World with an offer to establish special economic zones in Lamu Mombasa, Kisumu and Naivasha,”said Sang.

Their concerns came after Azimio leader Raila Odinga said the plan for the concession of port services was shrouded in secrecy and without public participation as required in law. He said the Mombasa County government must be involved in the plan.

Raila was addressing the press in Mombasa after a closed-door meeting with ODM governors. He said the country was perturbed by the alleged privatization of Mombasa and Lamu ports.

In a captivating fusion of talent, East Africa's distinguished artists, Femi One and Nyashinski, announce their latest track "Under the Influence."

The single, already generating considerable buzz is the second collaboration by the two. 

With an impressive track record of hit singles and a massive fan base, both Femi One and Nyashinski have consistently showcased their exceptional artistry.

This collaboration is expected to elevate their status as leading figures in the African music landscape.

"Under the Influence" promises a harmonious fusion of musical genres and a lyrical depth that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds.

The audio production by Motif Di Don is nothing short of stellar, as he infuses the track with an infectious rhythm that will undoubtedly have listeners dancing to its beats.

Complementing the audio is a visually stunning music video directed by Steve Mugo, a visionary in the art of storytelling through visuals.

His creative direction promises to deliver a visual narrative that is as compelling as the song itself.

Speaking on the latest release, Dennis Njenga, Head of Talent at Kaka Empire said “ This collaboration is not just a song, it represents a movement for Femi One’s and Nyashinki’s fans, we are confident the fans will resonate with the song for years to come!” 

The release of "Under the Influence" is set to make waves in the music industry, and fans are eagerly anticipating this collaboration between Femi One and Nyashinski.

The track and its accompanying music video are now available on all major streaming platforms, allowing fans to experience the magic of this musical partnership.

In a captivating fusion of talent, East Africa's distinguished artists, Femi One and Nyashinski, announce their latest track "Under the Influence."

The single, already generating considerable buzz is the second collaboration by the two. 

With an impressive track record of hit singles and a massive fan base, both Femi One and Nyashinski have consistently showcased their exceptional artistry.

This collaboration is expected to elevate their status as leading figures in the African music landscape.

"Under the Influence" promises a harmonious fusion of musical genres and a lyrical depth that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds.

The audio production by Motif Di Don is nothing short of stellar, as he infuses the track with an infectious rhythm that will undoubtedly have listeners dancing to its beats.

Complementing the audio is a visually stunning music video directed by Steve Mugo, a visionary in the art of storytelling through visuals.

His creative direction promises to deliver a visual narrative that is as compelling as the song itself.

Speaking on the latest release, Dennis Njenga, Head of Talent at Kaka Empire said “ This collaboration is not just a song, it represents a movement for Femi One’s and Nyashinki’s fans, we are confident the fans will resonate with the song for years to come!” 

The release of "Under the Influence" is set to make waves in the music industry, and fans are eagerly anticipating this collaboration between Femi One and Nyashinski.

The track and its accompanying music video are now available on all major streaming platforms, allowing fans to experience the magic of this musical partnership.

King Kaka, has just released his much-anticipated track, "Explain."

With audio produced by Sifa and the captivating visuals directed by Steve Mugo, this track promises to be another chart-topper.

King Kaka, famed for his thought-provoking lyrics and unique sound, has been teasing fans on social media about "Explain" for some days, creating anticipation and excitement. Now that it's out, the audience is in for an auditory and visual treat.

Sifa, the mastermind behind some of the most notable beats in Kenya, has once again proven his prowess.

"Explain" boasts a rich texture of sounds, seamlessly blending King Kaka's verses with a background that resonates with both old fans and new listeners alike.

Steve Mugo, the video director, has painted a visual masterpiece that complements the track's emotion and narrative.

Known for his innovative concepts and sharp attention to detail, Mugo's work on "Explain" will surely attract rave reviews.

"Working on “Explain” was a great experience, the song is a testament to how God has been so good to me, I cannot even explain! '. I can't wait for the world to see and hear what we've created."

The release of "Explain" further solidifies King Kaka's place as one of the defining voices in Kenyan music.

Azimio leader Raila Odinga has arrived in Mombasa ahead of his meeting with Azimio Governors and other leaders.

Odinga who arrived in Mombasa on Thursday evening alongside former Kakamega Governor Wyclife Oparanya was welcomed by Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir.

According to a source, Odinga will be having a series of closed door meetings with leaders during his two day stay in Mombasa.

"HAPPENING NOW: Arrival in Mombasa with my Party Leader H. E @RailaOdinga among other national leaders ahead of a series of activities over the next two days." posted Mombasa Governor Nassir.

Earlier Kisumu Governor Anyang Nyongo shared through his official facebook that he has also landed in Mombasa.

"Touch down in Mombasa ahead of the Azimio Governors Consultative meeting with Rt. Hon Raila Odinga to evaluate the remarkable progress in devolution over the past decade." posted Nyong'o.

Earlier this month, Odinga held a consultative meeting Governors from  the Lake Region Economic Bloc.

Shipping and Maritime Affairs PS Shadrack Mwadime has urged the youth not to shy away from maritime and blue economy jobs.

Speaking during the Mombasa youth dialogue on Maritime and Shipping, Mwadime said the government is ready to help Kenyan youth secure jobs in the sector.

Using the biblical example of Joseph, PS Mwadime called on the youth to dream big and plan for their future.

"One of the main agendas of the Kenya Kwanza government is job creation, one way that we are trying to create the jobs is through maritime and blue economy. As the government we have availed the necessary resources and are ready to support you as the youth" said Mwadime.

Adding " Just like Joseph, I want you to have a dream and it should be about your future, make that dream a reality. Be bold enough and go for the jobs available in this industry."

Mwadime revealed that he has directed the Bandari Maritime College management yo expand the number of classes to accommodate more students interested in maritime and shipping.

He noted "I'm very happy that we have seen a good number of the youth registering for maritime courses, this is very encouraging. I have directed the C.E.O to ensure we have a whole new block constructed to accommodate more students."

"According to the reports we have been receiving, our youth are very marketable, they are the best when it comes to maritime jobs, they are praised for their hospitality, master of the language and discipline. The jobs are there, according to the statistics, we need about 500,000 seafarers."

Stakeholders in the Maritime and shipping industry have been challenged to work closely with the local media in order to sentisize the youths on the opportunities available in the industry.

Speaking during the Mombasa Youth dialogue on Maritime and shipping industry, the media Council of Kenya (MCK) Coast regional Coordinator Maureen Mudi regretted that the media has not been highlighting more stories on the opportunities in the industry.

"We have alot of opportunities in the Maritime, shipping and blue economy industry but sadly not many locals know about them" argued Mudi.

Adding " As stakeholders in the industry you need to work closely with the media so that our people can get  know about this opportunities. Be available to share information with journalists. We have alot of stories from the industy that need to be told".

Mudi noted that many journalists have faced the challenge of accesing the right information and resources from the stakeholders.

Mudi further challenged on journalists across the Coast region to specialise more on underwater videography and photography.

"There's one missing element when it comes to Blue Economy in media. There's no underwater photography or videography. It is very rare & I want you guys to take it as a challenge. We have alot of people who want to see the underwater life and the different creatures found there" said Mudi.

She further revealed that MCK is planning to develop a curriculum on blue economy for journalists, noting "We shall be reaching out and collaborate with different experts in that field, to have an inclusive perspective on the issue."

The event organised by  Blue radio  was attended by the Permanent Secretary ministry of Maritime and Blue economy Shadrack Mwadime among other stakeholders.