The Changamka Kenya Shopping Festival, an initiative by the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), has officially commenced at the Oshwal Community Centre in Mombasa.

This exciting festival offers Kenyans both within and beyond Mombasa City a unique chance to purchase high-quality products directly from local manufacturers at discounted prices, all under the inspiring banner of the Buy Kenya Build Kenya initiative in a bid to promote devolved manufacturing.

The festival serves as a dynamic convergence point for Kenyan manufacturers and key stakeholders, allowing them to display their locally crafted products and connect directly with consumers.

This not only boosts sales but also fosters greater awareness and appreciation of Kenya's manufacturing sector. 

"Changamka Shopping Festival is a celebration and a showcase of the diverse, high-quality, and unique products that our local industries produce. It provides manufacturers with a golden opportunity to highlight the excellence and variety of their goods to local, regional, and international markets,” said Ms. Joyce Njogu, KAM’s Head of Consulting and Business Development. 

The Mombasa edition of Changamka comes at a pivotal moment as the government rolls out policies aimed at increasing the manufacturing sector's contribution to the nation's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from the current 7.6 percent to an ambitious 20 percent by 2030. 

KAM Coast Region Chairman Abdallah Athman, urged shoppers from across the county and the country to seize this opportunity to support local manufacturers and benefit from the festival's discounted prices.

He praised KAM for decentralizing the festival, ensuring every county reaps its benefits.

“One of the most exciting aspects of Changamka Mombasa is its representation of a devolved approach to economic development. Since the implementation of the 2010 Constitution, Kenya has embraced a decentralized system of governance, which aims to bring services closer to the people, reduce the cost of doing business, and stimulate regional economic growth,” he noted.

Speaking during the event Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad  Nassir encouraged local businesses to join KAM and take advantage of the platform to showcase their products, thereby elevating their presence on both national and global stages, fostering competition and creativity. 

"The Buy Kenya Build Kenya initiative is more than just a slogan; it is a rallying cry that should echo throughout the nation. By supporting local manufacturing, we can drive job creation and economic development. The Changamka Shopping Festival is a crucial platform that will propel our local entrepreneurs to new heights, enabling them to compete effectively on a continental and global scale,” Governor Nassir emphasized. 

"SMEs are the backbone of our economy, and at Stanbic Bank, we are dedicated to empowering these businesses with the resources and support they need to thrive. We are huge proponents of the "Buy Kenya, Build Kenya" initiative, and remain committed to supporting local manufacturers and SMEs to deliver sustainable economic growth and development in Kenya.’’ said Florence Wanja, Regional Head of Business and Commercial Banking at Stanbic Bank. 

As the Changamka Shopping Festival unfolds, it promises to be a transformative event, igniting Mombasa with the spirit of local enterprise and innovation, and paving the way for a thriving Kenyan manufacturing sector. 

Now in its fourth edition in Mombasa County, the Changamka Shopping Festival will run from Thursday, 4th July 2024 to Sunday, 7th July 2024.

This four-day event promises to be a transformative experience, igniting Mombasa with the spirit of local enterprise and innovation, and paving the way for a thriving Kenya.

Samsung Electronics East Africa Ltd. unveiled the 2024 TV and sound device line-up at the local Unbox & Discover event at Capital Club in Nairobi.

The event showcased the latest Neo QLED 8K and 4K, OLED TVs, and sound devices.

As the world’s leading TV manufacturer for 18 consecutive years, Samsung’s offerings this year elevates the home entertainment experience with a range of powerful, AI-driven solutions.

Rahul Kochhar, Business Head of the Consumer Electronics Division at Samsung Electronics East Africa, said, "We are pushing the boundaries of home entertainment by integrating AI to enhance traditional viewing experiences. This year's TV lineup demonstrates our commitment to innovation, offering products that provide premium viewing quality while significantly enhancing our consumers' lifestyles."

Elevating Senses With Neo QLED 8K: Clarity, Sound and Smart Experiences

Neo QLED 8K is the flagship of Samsung’s latest TV line-up. It is equipped with the advanced NQ8 AI Gen2 processor, marking a significant leap in AI TV technology. This processor features a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) and an eightfold increase in neural networks from 64 to 256, ensuring an exceptional viewing experience with crisp details, regardless of the input source.

Every scene on the Neo QLED 8K is a feast for the eyes, thanks to its AI-driven picture technology. It brings out the finest details with outstanding clarity and naturalness, from facial expressions to subtle nuances. With 8K AI Upscaling Pro, users’ favourite shows and movies are transformed to match the 8K display closely, allowing them to enjoy the level of detail and picture clarity surpassing conventional 4K TVs.

Additionally, AI Motion Enhancer Pro makes fast action smoother and clearer — a dream for sports fans — while Real Depth Enhancer Pro adds a lifelike depth to the picture and pulls viewers into the scene every time. All these features come together to redefine the big-screen experience.

The Neo QLED 8K also delivers audio powered by AI sound technology. This year’s Active Voice Amplifier Pro now excels at extracting dialogue from background noise, ensuring every word is heard clearly. Object Tracking Sound Pro also enriches the audio experience by syncing the sound with on-screen action, creating a more dynamic and engaging viewing experience. Adaptive Sound Pro refines the audio experience by intelligently adjusting the audio to the content and room acoustics for a genuinely rich and lifelike sound.

The Neo QLED 8K also boasts AI features that understand and adapt to user needs. The AI Auto Game Mode kicks in during gaming, optimising the visuals and audio for an even more immersive and engaging gaming experience. The AI Customization Mode adjusts the picture for each scene based on user preference, while the AI Energy Mode saves power without compromising picture quality. These features ensure that Neo QLED 8K is easy, personalised, and energy efficient for all entertainment needs.

Samsung's latest TVs are designed with SmartThings AI capabilities to save energy.

The new AI Energy Saving mode can reduce energy use by 23% compared to the standard mode. Thanks to SmartThings integration, various Samsung TVs can automatically adjust colour validation based on the viewing environment to enhance energy efficiency. Samsung has also unveiled an upgraded Frame TV with dynamic screen refresh rates and better colour validations for improved energy efficiency.

The Neo QLED 8K QN800D is available in sizes of 65, 75, and 85 inches. The Neo QLED 4K is available in one model, QN85 D, and in sizes of, 55, 65, 75, 85,. The Neo QLED 8K and 4K line-up promises an unparalleled viewing experience in the premium large-screen category.

Smart Features with Samsung Tizen OS for Enhanced Integration and Personalisation

In 2024, Samsung’s AI screens are set to redefine the user experience with advanced connectivity and a suite of smart features, apps and platforms. Leveraging the powerful Tizen OS, these innovations have created an ecosystem that is connected, personalised, and secure through Knox Security. This allows devices to integrate effortlessly into users’ digital worlds, transforming screens into a central hub for all their needs.

Samsung’s latest TVs are designed to connect with a smart ecosystem immediately upon setup. The moment users turn on their new Samsung TV, the TV recognises and connects to existing networks and devices, all orchestrated through a simple notification on users’ smartphones. This effortless setup extends to all Samsung devices at home, third-party appliances, and IoT devices, thanks to its compatibility with HCA and Matter. This eliminates the need for extra hubs, so everything from lighting to security sensors can be managed directly from the screen.

Samsung’s 2024 screen line-up also brings integration with users’ smartphones to new heights. Users can bring their smartphone near the TV to activate Smart Mobile Connect, which turns the device into a universal remote for the TV and connected home appliances. Additionally, in 2024, users can use their smartphones as game controllers with a customisable user interface (UI) and haptic feedback, offering convenient and enhanced gameplay at their fingertips.

Beyond connectivity, Samsung’s 2024 Smart TVs provide a highly personalised experience with its apps and platforms. With the latest addition of widgets, TV screens are now personalised dashboards that allow users to easily monitor home status, camera feeds, energy usage, weather updates and more.

Security is paramount, and with Samsung Knox, every feature, app, and platform benefits from robust protection, allowing connected experiences to remain private and secure.

Expansive Line-up for All Entertainment Needs: Neo QLED 4K, OLED and Sound Devices

Samsung is introducing an expanded and enhanced range of TVs and sound devices this year, designed to offer consumers a wider array of choices to suit diverse lifestyles and preferences. This comprehensive line-up underscores Samsung’s commitment to innovation and a customer-centric approach.

The 2024 Neo QLED 4K lineup brings cutting-edge innovations from the latest Neo QLED 8K flagship TVs, elevating the viewing experience with ground-breaking features powered by the NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor. This advanced chip breathes life into almost any content, rendering it in stunning 4K resolution. With the world’s first Pantone Validated display for colour accuracy and Dolby Atmos for an immersive audio experience, Neo QLED 4K sets the bar for the ultimate 4K UHD experience. Neo QLED 4K will be available in sizes ranging from 55 to 98 inches, catering to diverse viewing environments.

Samsung is also introducing the world’s first Glare-Free OLED, eliminating unnecessary reflection while preserving deep blacks and clear images under lighting conditions. Powered by the same formidable NQ4 AI Gen2 Processor as the Neo QLED 4K lineup, Samsung’s OLED TVs boast features like the Real Depth Enhancer and OLED HDR Pro, bringing picture quality to new heights.

Additionally, with features such as Motion Xcelerator 144Hz ensuring smooth motion and quick response rates, Samsung OLED is the ultimate choice for gaming. Complemented by sleek designs, these OLED TVs elevate the viewing space. Available in Kenya in two models —S90D — ranging from 55 to 83 inches, there’s a perfect fit for every home.

The 2024 line-up also includes the latest Q-Series Soundbar, Q800D, which boasts an 11.1.4-channel setup with Wireless Dolby Atmos. This model comes with a host of features that stand as a testament to Samsung’s continued leadership as the world’s best-selling soundbar brand for the past 10 years, featuring innovations such as Sound Grouping for pulsating, room-filling sound and an option for personal listening that allows users to enjoy their content through rear speakers without disturbing others.

Samsung is pleased to announce the availability of pre-orders for its AI-powered TVs. Buy the 2024 Samsung AI TVs now and get amazing deals. The offer is available at participating retailers. For more information or to pre-order Samsung’s 2024 TV products, please visit  https://www.samsung.com/africa_en/tvs/all-tvs/

The World Class Kenya Bartending Competition Finals are upon us. Happening on the 5^th of July at the Tusker Bar, EABL headquarters, the finals promise elite displays of innovation and artistry by the very best Kenya has to offer.

Benson Kanyi, a top mixologist from the Coast of Kenya gives us a look at the competition after emerging as one of the top 20 finalists. He hopes to clinch the trophy and ticket to Shanghai China in early September, representing Kenya at the Global finals. At rue creative, his journey embodies the skill and resilience on show, that have come to define this year’s edition.

 1.  Can you tell us a bit about yourself? I am a Creative and to be precise a Bartender. I love what I do and pride myself in sharing experiences in whichever place I am.

 2. What inspired you to pursue a career in bartending? I remember when I was a kid, I wanted to be a Pilot but when you grow up due to circumstances the dreams change but I realized I don’t have to be a Pilot to transport people all over the World, with Bartending I am able to do that in a glass. Also, I was so curious with flavours when growing up and to be honest I love what I do.

3. What aspect of mixology do you find most rewarding? The most rewarding thing for me is the ability to craft unique and delicious drinks from zero to a perfectly balanced drink. There is also the side of experimenting with flavours, ingredients, and techniques to create something that wows the guest/consumers that is very fulfilling. Additionally, there is the social aspect of interacting with guests and creating memorable experiences through crafting cocktails that i find most rewarding.

 4. How do you stay inspired and keep your passion for bartending alive? I have a philosophy to always stay curious and learn more. I am also very experimental when it comes to ingredients.  I also want to share my skills to give consumers unique experiences.

 5. Can you describe a typical day routine for you as a bartender preparing for the day? Depending on whichever shift I am on, I usually wake up early, do my exercises then a cold shower. Get to my books and at least read something about Bartending or Food that I can carry to work and share with my workmates. When I get to work, I have to check how my mates are then check if there is something missing and help in any way especially on the preparation needed at the bar.

 6.  Can you tell us a bit about the World Class Bartenders Competition and how you came to know about and participate in this year’s edition?  It is a Prestigious global event for Bartenders organized by Diageo that seeks to elevate and celebrate the craft of Bartending by showcasing the skills, creativity and innovation of top bartenders from around the globe. I came to know it from my Regional Brand ambassador who came to the outlet that I work at and told us more about the competition which I am participating in.

 7. What does the competition represent for you? To me the competition signifies an opportunity to showcase my skills, creativity, and knowledge in mixology on a national stage and global stage as well. Either by winning or even participating in such a Prestigious competition i can elevate my career, get recognition, networking opportunities, and validation of my expertise within the industry. It also encourages me continuously learn and innovate in cocktail crafting, pushing boundaries and setting new standards in the art of bartending.

8.  Can you walk us through the process of developing one of your signature cocktails?  It all starts with the spirit; I have to understand the main character which is the spirit then know what I can work with in terms of the flavours. I seek inspiration from Classic cocktails, a place, a person or an experience. The sounds and scents at local market, where I pick my ingredients, the preparation, aromas and taste add to this and aid in my process.

9.  How has participating in the World Class Bartenders Competition influenced your career as a mixologist so far?  It has enhanced my skills, expanded my network, personal growth & increased my visibility. This In addition to opening doors to new opportunities within the hospitality and beverage industry.

10.  What skills and experience have you gained from the competition that have been most valuable to you? The competition offers multifaceted learning experience that enhances both technical proficiency and professional growth in the hospitality industry. Personally, I have gained the required adaptability, resilience and valuable insights for improvement and helped me refine my skills.

11.  How has Diageo supported bartenders in Kenya, especially in preparation for this competition? Indepth knowledge of the products and the process through the competition have been invaluable.

12.  How can the industry and competitions like this one become more inclusive and supportive?   It is by ensuring there is a diverse representation among participants, judges, and organizers. Also, by providing resources and mentorship opportunities to help newcomers prepare for competitions. Training through workshops and mentorship initiatives help Bartenders enhance their skills and confidence.

13.  What do you see as the future of the World Class Bartenders Competition and mixology in Kenya?  It is promising and has the potential for growth and recognition on the global stage. Where the Bartender use local ingredients that are recognized globally. We have stories and experiences to share at the Global stage.

14.  What advice would you give aspiring mixologists?   One has to know and master the basics. They should know their craft.  They should be experimental and innovate which is by pushing their boundaries. They should understand ingredients and also stay creative and curious. Seek feedback and keep learning. They key is to always practice. Network and collaboration are the way to go. Create experiences, be memorable. Be as active as you can be to keep the creativity flowing. 

Diageo’s initiatives and support through EABL, have positively influenced the careers of bartenders and the overall quality of mixology in Kenya. Potential entrants will look to reap the benefits of participating in future competitions. The World Class Competition fosters a deeper appreciation for the craft among consumers and the general public, enhancing the prestige of the profession.

Mvita Member of Parliament Mohammed Machele has joined other legislators in condemning the move by the  Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) to recommend an increase in salaries for various senior state officials.

A Gazette Notice dated August 9, 2023, from SRC, noted that state officers were scheduled to get salary and benefit increments starting July 1.

Machele noted that salary increment is currently not a necessity.

"The are more pressing and crucial matters that need to be addressed by the executive and collectively the future of our country. Salary increment for Mps and government officials is not one of them." said Machele

In the new salaries, which are effective July 1, the Majority and Minority leaders are set to walk home with Sh800,019 from the previous Sh784,768.

Additionally, Members of Parliament and Senate will receive a pay rise from the initial Sh725,502 to 739,600.

Tourism stakeholders have come together to deliberate on strategies to deal with the security challenge in the sector.

The meeting taking place in Mombasa has brought together over 200 stakeholders mainly from the ministry of tourism, Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF), hoteliers, tour and beach operators, Mombasa county government, Tourism research institute, Tourism regulatory authority, tourism traffic police unit among other stakeholders.

Speaking while officially opening the meeting , Tourism Principal Secretary John Ololtua emphasized the need for cooperation between the stakeholders.

"Tourism safety and security significantly impact economic growth, social cohesion, and overall quality of life. Addressing these issues requires collaboration among all stakeholders, including government, law enforcement, communities, and development partners. By sharing knowledge and best practices, we can create a safer environment for tourists and locals." said Ololtua.

Adding " The tourism industry is a vital component of our economy, creating jobs, generating revenue, and highlighting the natural beauty and cultural richness of our nation. Ensuring the safety and security of our tourism sector is crucial for its continued growth and prosperity."

The meeting comes at a time when the country is experiencing weekly demonstrations mainly from the youth who have come out to express their disaffection with the government.

The PS took the opportunity to call on Kenyans to maintain peace.

"I would like to call on Kenyans to maintain unity and peace. This industry can only thrive when there is peace" said Ololtua.

The PS revealed that the ministry is developing and reviewing several policies and strategies, including the review of the Tourism Policy and the Tourism Act Cap 381 to align with current sector dynamics, the development of a National Tourism Strategy, the creation of Tourism Master Plans and Area Development Plans and the review of our Strategic Plan.

Ololtua charged "In 2023, Kenya saw a positive trend in tourism with 2.086 million international tourist arrivals, compared to 1.483 million in 2022, marking a 35.4% increase. We expect this number to grow to 5 million by 2027. Additionally, inbound earnings rose to Kshs. 352.54 billion in 2023 from Kshs. 268.09 billion in 2022, a 31.5% increase, with projections of reaching Kshs. 825 billion in 2024."

Speaking at the same time Kenya  Tourism Federation C.E.O Susan Ogalo called for cooperation between the poilce, traffic department and tour operators.

"We have received alot of complains of harassment from our tour operators. We need to sensitize our police especially the traffic police on how to deal with tour operators. Why should a tour operator transporting tourists to their destination be stopped for hours by a traffic officer, this causes unnecessary uncertainty and inconveniences. If a driver has issues or has committed an offence, why can't the officer just issue the driver with a note to appear at the police station or court later and let him proceed with the journey" said Ogalo.

Ogalo further revealed that the federation has established security safety centres which have played a major role in ensuring security for tourists.

Ogalo noted "We have not received any complain of even a single tourist being affected or caught up in the ongoing demonstrations, this is because through the safety centres we have been able to advise our toup operators and tourists on safe routes and safety measures as the demonstrations take place"

Police in Mombasa have arrested a businessman for allegedly shooting at protesters on Tuesday afternoon.

According to a statement from the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) the businessman who runs a popular food joint in Mombasa Qaffee Point was caught on camera shooting two protesters.

"Following today's 1.30pm unfortunate shooting at Ganjoni area of Mombasa by a civilian firearm holder and the alleged owner of QAFFEE POINT Hotel that left some persons injured, the said shooter has since been arrested, disarmed and placed in custody." reads a statement from DCI.

Adding " The reported two persons who suffered injuries are receiving medical aid, and we pray that they will recuperate fast. The DCI thanks members of the public who acted fast to assist the injured to hospital, and at the same time appeals to Mombasa people to be calm on this case as necessary legal action is being taken."

In a video circulating online, the said businessman is seen shooting at a group of protesters to keep them away from his business, along Nyerere avenue.

https://ommydalla.co.ke/people/item/3774-vehicles-torched-popular-food-joint-vandalized-in-mombasa-protests#google_vignette

A section of youth taking part in the anti- finance bill protests in Mombasa have set ablaze several cars and vandalized different businesses.

The protestors who were chanting anti government slogans set ablaze more than two vehicles along Nyerere avenue and vandalized a popular food joint across the street, Qaffee point.

Police had a hard time dispersing the group of youths.

The youths also vanadalized a Bata shoe shop.

Firefighters managed to put  out the fire.

Police blocked protesters from going to Mombasa State House which is located along Mama Ngina Drive.

Police trucks and vans blocked the road with some officers patrolling on foot. 

In the morning, the demos were peaceful as protesters started walking from Digo Road to Jomo Kenyatta Avenue around the Saba Saba area before they came back to town.

Budget airline Jambojet has officially launched a new direct route from Mombasa to Zanzibar .

The airline will now fly four times a week between the two destinations.

The inaugural flight departed from Mombasa, Moi International Airport (MBA/HKMO) and arrived in Zanzibar Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (AAKIA), marked by a celebration attended by officials from the Embassy of Kenya to Tanzania, Government representatives of Tanzania & Kenya, and executives of Jambojet among others.

Starting immediately, Jambojet will operate flights on this route four times a week—Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.

Flights will depart Mombasa at 5:10 PM and arrive in Zanzibar at 6:05 PM, with a flight duration of 55 minutes.

Speaking during the launch, Jambojet Managing Director and Chief Executive Office, Karanja Ndegwa said this is a milestone for the airline which will open the two tourism cities of Mombasa and Zanzibar.

"This is our first international route from Mombasa and we are hoping to have many more. For us we are excited and we will continue working on growing Mombasa as our second hub after Nairobi." said Ndegwa.

"Our return flight fare is kshs  24,400. Ours is to make sure that every city is taking care of. For now we are starting at four flights a week but our intention is to have daily flights."

Using De Havilland Dash 8 400 aircraft capable of carrying 78 to 82 passengers, Jambojet completes the Zanzibar-Mombasa journey in under an hour, facilitating convenient connections to Nairobi, Dubai, Frankfurt, Milan, and other destinations.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir to start more international routes from the port city.

Nassir argued that the Moi International airport has been under utilised on international routes.

Nassir noted"I strongly believe that we have alot of untapped capacities, this airport has been under utilized when it comes to international airport."

Adding "I just want to equally state that one of the major foreigners coming to Kenya are Tanzanians so the market is there"

On his part Tanzanian High Commissioner to Kenya, Bernard Kibese commended Jambojet applauded the airline for the move.

"Mine is to  thank Jambojet for inaugurating the first trip to Zanzibar and for choosing Zanzibar as their preferred destination."

Coast Regional Airport Manager at the Kenya Airports Authority, Abel Gogo noted We are extremely excited to witness the launch of Jambojet's Mombasa-Zanzibar route. This adds to our portfolio of international routes and we hope for continued growth and operations."

The Jambojet flight from Zanzibar to Mombasa is part of its marketing expansion strategy in the East African region

“Our economy largely depends on tourism, which cannot grow without expanding key sectors like aviation. Jambojet's new route will significantly contribute to boosting tourism on the islands," said Mudrik Ramadhan Soragha, Zanzibar Minister of Tourism and Heritage.

"On behalf of the Kenyan government, I am delighted to be part of today's launch of this new route operated by our airline, Jambojet, from Zanzibar to Mombasa. This step is crucial not only in facilitating quick and affordable air travel but also in strengthening commercial, tourist, and cultural ties between Tanzania and Kenya. By enhancing connectivity, we are fostering development along the East African coast," said Issac Njenga, Kenya's Ambassador to Tanzania

Established in 2014 as a part of Kenya Airways (KQ), Jambojet has served over 7.5 million passengers, attracting 44% of first-time flyers and now holds more than 54% of domestic air travel market share in Kenya. The airline also flies to Nairobi, Kisumu, Eldoret, Lamu, Malindi, Diani, and Goma in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

She is mostly known by her arrogant, scowling skit character Mama Ryan but Aicy Stevens has always wanted to be an actor whose work transcends the boundaries of one-minute comedy skits on Instagram.

It’s the kind of opportunity that her character on Jiji, the new Showmax youth drama, has given her.

In Jiji, directed by Enos Olik, Aicy plays Mwende, whom she describes as “the typical ghetto lady trying to leave the ghetto and improve her life.” She’s an adventurous beauty, a slick charmer and a natural pickpocket – a valuable asset in her group of four young girls fighting to make ends meet in the streets of Jericho.

For the young actress in her first role on screen, this is just the beginning. “Expect to see much more from me on screen from now on,” Aicy says.

This is your first role in a TV show ever and also your first lead role. How does it feel?

I'm very excited. It's a beautiful challenge because it's something I've been looking forward to and that will help me grow my skills as an actress. And being a youth drama, Jiji is a story that I hold dear to my heart. This is a different kind of a show, it’s also very relatable and I'm sure our audience is going to love it.

You are mostly known for your Instagram comedy skits as Mama Ryan alongside Nick Kwach. Was acting always the end game for you when you started doing these skits?

It has been my dream since I was a small girl to appear on big screens and thank God it has finally come true. It’s a fire that has been burning for long and yes, Mama Ryan’s role has helped me sharpen my skills. Now, I can immerse myself fully into my Jiji character Mwende and understand her because of the training I’ve had with Mama Ryan.

Talking of Mama Ryan, how did it come about?

It was a random thought that came to mind since I had been doing skits for the longest time. The reception from our fans was very encouraging and gave us more morale to come up with more ideas about Mama Ryan and Baba Ryan. That’s how we built it.

How has it been doing this skit with Nick Kwach?

It has been a beautiful experience full of teamwork. Nick is very creative, open-minded, and very supportive. He has also helped me nurture my acting talent.

Tell us more about your Jiji character Mwende. What do you like most about her?

Mwende is a go-getter, she’s sassy, hardworking, fashionista, a lover of the soft life and a no-nonsense character. What I like most about her is the fact that her character arc is 360 degrees and this gives her an opportunity to play with different emotions and personalities.

What was your reaction when you received the call that you had landed this role of Mwende?

I had a mixture of emotions; I was both shocked and super excited. And I cried because this role is something I had been praying for so long for.

How has it been working with Enos Olik as your director?

I've learnt a lot from him, he's insanely talented and very dedicated and he listens to actors. He's the kind of director one will always look forward to working with in future projects because he brings the best out of you as an actor.

Jiji is now streaming on Showmax, with new episodes releasing every Monday and Tuesday.

In Season 2 of The Real Housewives of Nairobi, currently streaming on Showmax, Dr Catherine Masitsa, popularly known as Dr C, is showcasing a bigger and better version of herself, and her business that she has built for 20 years.

“I have lived life, changed careers, built a business, created my own table and now, I’m sitting at the head of that table and thriving,” she says. “I am done living my life with society's expectations of me.”

Your mantra this season is “bigger, brighter and better.” What does that phrase mean to you?

I mean, look at me, I look good, right? But also, I moved to a new house that is bigger and better. I’m launching new products because my business has grown and that is part of the impact of The Real Housewives of Nairobi S1. Kenyans welcomed me, they welcomed my products - Samantha Wines – and doors opened that I never imagined.

Therefore, this season I’m growing my business by launching more products and increasing the Samantha brand SKU. As part of our brand, we now have champagne, prosecco, sparkling wine and even Dr C gin. Away from business, I’m enjoying life, together with my family, and just living the Kenyan dream.

How does it feel to see this positive impact that the show has had on your business?

I like to jump into the fire and then learn as I go. Having built my brand, Samantha Bridal, for 20 years, I needed to do something to reignite the brand and attract new people and that’s what The Real Housewives of Nairobi S1 did for me and my business. The show gave me an opportunity to put my brand out there when people can still buy me because they can really see who I am. And not only in Kenya, the show has helped me across Africa.

I’ve received feedback from distributors in Uganda, Ghana, Nigeria and South Africa wanting to stock my wine. Because of The Real Housewives of Nairobi, we have managed to get our brand name out there and extend it beyond Kenyan borders.

You are celebrating your anniversary this year. How has the relationship with your husband and daughter been since The Real Housewives of Nairobi premiered?

I’ve been with my husband for the last 28 years, so celebrating those years of friendship and marriage is a big milestone that I do not take for granted.

He is my best friend and my cheerleader. Most of the time, he’s in the background but he will observe and advise me. We actually launched my champagne brand to celebrate our relationship but more so, we’re celebrating the business Samantha Bridal, which I launched after our wedding.

Our daughter is very happy to be on the show; she’s really enjoying the limelight. One of the things I like to teach her is to stand up for herself. She makes her own observations and she tells me off when she needs to and she’s proud of me when she needs to be proud of me. You get to see that when you watch Season 2.

This season you’re also going big with your matchmaking business despite the controversy in S1 about you being a matchmaker. Could you please clarify what it means when you say you’re a matchmaker?

In S1, we received such unwarranted attention regarding my matchmaking business. I have helped bring together lots of happy couples now, and we now even have an app that is doing extremely well. But we’re still a very boutique entity because it’s not something I started doing for money. Sometimes we have a lot of people on the waitlist who want to be connected to someone, and it’s also one of the biggest inquiries I’ve received in my company’s inbox. It means people still want to get married.

I only deal with people who are serious, which means I’m matchmaking people who actually want to get together in a real, loving, long-term relationship because I am really old school.