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Ommy Dallah

Ommy Dallah

The glittering night of glamour and recognition took center stage as the third annual Pulse Influencer Awards 2023 unfolded, celebrating the exceptional achievements of Kenya's top influencers and entertainers across various categories. With a record-breaking 870,650 votes cast, Kenya emerged as the undisputed leader in this year's awards.
 
"The something I live by: You cannot live in your past glory. You are only as good as your next performance. No one cares you need to win. Shut the noise, keep being great at what you are," said Kate Actress, delivering a strong message that resonated throughout the event.
 
 
The evening was nothing short of spectacular, with Mutoriah's electrifying performance setting the stage on fire. The night was further highlighted by the announcement of the well-deserved winners:
 
- Arts/Photography Influencer of the Year: Wixx Mangutha
- Lifestyle Influencer of the Year: Joanna Kinuthia
- Business Influencer of the Year: Maureen Bandari
- Comedy Influencer of the Year: Crazy Kennar
- Finance Influencer of the Year: Alfa House
- Facebook Influencer of the Year: Terence Creative
- Fashion Influencer of the Year: Kate Actress
- Food Influencer of the Year: Holy Dave
- Next Generation Influencer of the Year: Kate Thuku
- Instagram Influencer of the Year: Murugi Munyi
- LinkedIn Influencer of the Year: Joan the Career Coach
- Media/Blogger Influencer of the Year: The Good Company
- Most Influential Actress Influencer of the Year: Marya Okoth
- Most Influential Actor of the Year: Real Buggi
- Music Influencer of the Year: Motif Di don
- Podcast Influencer of the Year: TMI
- Sports Influencer of the Year: Ferdinand Omanyala
- Tech Influencer of the Year: Daddie Marto
- TikTok Influencer of the Year: Tom Daktari
- Twitter Influencer of the Year: Edgar Wabwire
- YouTube Influencer of the Year: Abel Mutua
 
In an exciting turn of events, two Kenyan groups secured victories in the Pan African Category, triumphing over competitors from other African markets:
 
- Positive Impact Influencer of the Year: Food4Education Kenya
- Most Innovative Influencer of the Year: Huruma Town Kids
 
The Pulse Influencer Awards also paid tribute to the late Sean Cardovillis, awarding him a Lifetime Achievement Award(Sports) for his invaluable contribution to the sports industry . The late Sean Cardovillis' family was present to receive the award on his behalf, with George Cardovillis(Dad) , Naseem Cardovillis (Mum), Charles Cardovillis (cousin), and Danny Munyi (best friend and colleague at Capital FM) in attendance.
 
This year also saw the introduction of the Next Gen Influencer of the Year, a category that celebrates the rising stars and trendsetters who are leading the way in the digital landscape. The next-gen influencers have proven themselves as trailblazers, shaping the future of online influence. They are the driving force behind the next generation of content creation.
 
Adding to the night's glamour, Kate Actress was crowned the Best Dressed at the Great Gatsby-themed event, hosted at Nairobi Street Kitchen. The event drew a star-studded guest list, including Eddie Butita, Nick Mudimba, Roy Karuhize, Chantoue Kwamboka (Miss Kenya), Ajib Gathoni, Neddy Parezo, Eric Mang'era(US Embassy) , Carol Radul and other luminaries from the entertainment industry.
 
Main sponsors of the event were NCBA, Oktoberfest, and I&M. 

A new Kenyan crime film MTAA YANGU has premiered at leading cinemas countrywide with a successful premiere event held last week (6th October 2023) at Anga Diamond Plaza. MTAA YANGU is currently screening at Motion Cinema, Greenspan Mall in Donholm, Anga Diamond Plaza, Prestige Plaza and Century Cinemax Junction.

Tickets to watch MTAA YANGU are going for Ksh. 1,090 and available via Kenyabuzz.  

Prepare to be transported to a world of intrigue and drama as themes including love, betrayal, greed and corruption take centre stage in Kenya’s latest cinematic masterpiece featuring Makovo Mbatha (plays Gunner Kiprotich G), Benta Wesonga (plays Wambui Kamau), Emily Nene (plays Catherine Njeri) and Mary Kinya (plays Nancy Lubanga).

The action-filled film, directed by Likale Washington Muyonga, is centered around Kiprotich - a local gang leader and his gang members who benefit from exploiting locals by forcefully collecting illegal ‘tax’ from them. Residents of Mwiki Town suffer from that but ironically still take refuge and security from Gunner ‘G’ - the crime lord.

As if the unrest isn’t enough for the locals, they start to receive eviction leaflets from the area MP (Okelo) - played by Nathan Songa, the Governor who has an intention of attracting foreign investment. Mwiki Town is engulfed in unrest, as the residents demand for their rights and place of home. 

Gunner ‘G’ is forced to get into talks with the MP, who turns a deaf ear to the plight of the residents. An entitled G feels betrayed, especially following the fact that he helped the MP win and get into power illegally. After their heated meeting, the MP plots G’s murder using two rogue cops: Lurther and Ben. 

G finds love in Catherine Njeri - a resident of the area. In an operation, Ras - one of G’s gang members, kills Njeri’s brother. With the knowledge that this might jeopardize his relationship with Njeri, he decides to bury the truth about her brother’s death, unbeknownst of the guilt that would tear him apart. 

He decides to send Njeri to a medical school, as a means of running away from facing the truth and his guilt. To save the residents of Mwiki and his relationship, G hatches a plan to quit a life in crime.  However, he first has to rob money from the MP.  Will he succeed? 

MTAA YANGU shall simultaneously premiere Worldwide, to all 195 Countries & Territories, via Digital Cinema Extension - MyMovies.Africa™, to #RentFor2Days.

“This is the second Likale Washington Muyonga feature Film on MyMovies.Africa™”, says Trushna Buddhdev-Patel, Co-Founder, CEO & Content Director at Award-winning Kenyan Entertainment Technology Start-up – YAKWETU™, owner of the Service. “A year ago we premiered his TESTED globally too.  As you can see, we are Committed to making Kenyan and African stories, by Kenyan and African filmmakers, available across The Motherland and to her Diaspora.”

A new Kenyan crime film MTAA YANGU has premiered at leading cinemas countrywide with a successful premiere event held last week (6th October 2023) at Anga Diamond Plaza. MTAA YANGU is currently screening at Motion Cinema, Greenspan Mall in Donholm, Anga Diamond Plaza, Prestige Plaza and Century Cinemax Junction.

Tickets to watch MTAA YANGU are going for Ksh. 1,090 and available via Kenyabuzz.  

Prepare to be transported to a world of intrigue and drama as themes including love, betrayal, greed and corruption take centre stage in Kenya’s latest cinematic masterpiece featuring Makovo Mbatha (plays Gunner Kiprotich G), Benta Wesonga (plays Wambui Kamau), Emily Nene (plays Catherine Njeri) and Mary Kinya (plays Nancy Lubanga).

The action-filled film, directed by Likale Washington Muyonga, is centered around Kiprotich - a local gang leader and his gang members who benefit from exploiting locals by forcefully collecting illegal ‘tax’ from them. Residents of Mwiki Town suffer from that but ironically still take refuge and security from Gunner ‘G’ - the crime lord.

As if the unrest isn’t enough for the locals, they start to receive eviction leaflets from the area MP (Okelo) - played by Nathan Songa, the Governor who has an intention of attracting foreign investment. Mwiki Town is engulfed in unrest, as the residents demand for their rights and place of home. 

Gunner ‘G’ is forced to get into talks with the MP, who turns a deaf ear to the plight of the residents. An entitled G feels betrayed, especially following the fact that he helped the MP win and get into power illegally. After their heated meeting, the MP plots G’s murder using two rogue cops: Lurther and Ben. 

G finds love in Catherine Njeri - a resident of the area. In an operation, Ras - one of G’s gang members, kills Njeri’s brother. With the knowledge that this might jeopardize his relationship with Njeri, he decides to bury the truth about her brother’s death, unbeknownst of the guilt that would tear him apart. 

He decides to send Njeri to a medical school, as a means of running away from facing the truth and his guilt. To save the residents of Mwiki and his relationship, G hatches a plan to quit a life in crime.  However, he first has to rob money from the MP.  Will he succeed? 

MTAA YANGU shall simultaneously premiere Worldwide, to all 195 Countries & Territories, via Digital Cinema Extension - MyMovies.Africa™, to #RentFor2Days.

“This is the second Likale Washington Muyonga feature Film on MyMovies.Africa™”, says Trushna Buddhdev-Patel, Co-Founder, CEO & Content Director at Award-winning Kenyan Entertainment Technology Start-up – YAKWETU™, owner of the Service. “A year ago we premiered his TESTED globally too.  As you can see, we are Committed to making Kenyan and African stories, by Kenyan and African filmmakers, available across The Motherland and to her Diaspora.”

Kenyan rising star, Savinnah, is set to heat up the airwaves with her latest release, 'Wondering'.

In this enticing and infectious track, Savinnah fearlessly embraces the allure of a one-night fling, creating a captivating and memorable listening experience for her fans.

With 'Wondering', Savinnah expertly blends a slow, soothing beat with a rhythmic flow that irresistibly targets the heart and waistline of its listeners.

The mellow feel of the song beckons its audience to move and groove to its seductive melodies.

In this captivating tune, Savinnah tells the story of a fateful encounter with a mysterious stranger.

Fuelled by desire and passion, she sets the stage for an extraordinary night of happiness, togetherness, and love.

'Wondering' celebrates the freedom and excitement that can be found in a temporary connection, emphasizing the joy of living in the moment.

Savinnah's undeniable talent as a singer and songwriter shines through in 'Wondering'.

Her sultry vocals intertwine effortlessly with the well-crafted lyrics, painting a vivid picture of emotion and desire.

The song's catchy chorus and infectious hook are guaranteed to get stuck in listeners' heads, further cementing Savinnah as a force to be reckoned with in the Kenyan music scene.

As an emerging artist, Savinnah continues to make waves with her unique sound and honest storytelling.

Drawing inspiration from her personal experiences, she fearlessly explores themes that resonate with her audience, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of listeners.

"Wondering' marks yet another milestone in Savinnah's promising career.

With its irresistible charm and alluring lyrics, the song is a testament to her artistry and ability to captivate audiences with her magnetic presence.

 

 

A section of human rights activists in Mombasa have substantively raised concerns over rampant cases of breach of data privacy and challenged the Office of Data Protection Commissioner ODPC to move with speed and enforce the law governing public and personal data privacy in the country.

Coast Human Rights Network Programs Director Micheal Magak and his counterpart and Executive Director for Youth Caucus Mr Evans Momanyi said the breach has caused more harm than good to many kenyans and even led to loses of life and businesses. 

Momanyi, argues reputation of several families and homes have been damaged and many marriages broken as a result of abuse of the law regarding data privacy and protection, and asked the government to considerr data privacy and protection , a fundamental human right issue. 

"We are saying as concerned citizens and human right defenders that the governmsnt should assure us of safety of our data privacy and those officers suspected to be part of the breach should face the law accordingly " said Momanyi 

Magak on the other hand said the matter should be about data protection particularly in the financial sector where a substantial number of customers confidential data have deliberately been leaked to the public without their consent. 

"Thats why we think the Data Protection Commissioner should act with speed and deal with the problem of data privacy breaches and also assure the public that the government is doing everything possible to safe guard every Kenyan rights to data privacy" Mr Magak added as he called on the government ti develop clear policies in regard to individual data privacy and protection. 

The activists further asked the Data Protection Commissioner Immaculate Kassait to emphasize more now on public awareness campaigns through sensitization of kenyans about the roles of the office and its mandate in the protection of privacy of their personal data. 

A number of cases of data privacy and confidentiality breach have widwidely beenn reported with the financial sector, banks in particular where customers have raiaed complains against certain bank staff suspected of breaching customer confidentiality by leaking data information to the public without their consent.

Thursday, 05 October 2023 13:43

Youth Urged To Seize Opportunities

Youth affairs Permanent Secretary (PS) Ismail Maalim has urged the youth to tap into the opportunities that are in the government, so that they can contribute to the transformation of the economy.

Speaking during the fourth day of the Pwani Innovation Week, Maalim who was the chief guest said the government has set up a number of opportunities to help alleviate youth unemployment in the country.

Maalim regretted that most youth in the country lack the right information when it comes to the opportunities urging the youth to always be seeking information from the different government channels of information.

"Our youth lack the right information. I would like to encourage them to be visiting the different government websites, we have alot of opportunities from the government but they will not come to you where you are , it is upon you to get out of your comfort zone and look for this opportunities and one way is by you visiting the government websites." said Maalim.

Maalim noted that the government has cut down the bureaucracies that were previously being experienced when trying to access government opportunities and services.

Maalim charged "We no longer have those bureaucracies like in the past. Stop complaining of bureaucracy yet you have not yet even tried the opportunities, come out and seize the opportunity."

On his part Transport Permanent Secretary (PS) Mohammed Daghar challenged the youth to be innovative and utilise their time.

"This youthful age does not come with a manual, use your time well. Dream big and work towards achieving your dreams dont just sit and wait for others to create for you the opportunities" said Daghar.

Adding " "Innovation is not only associated with technology. It also ensures that we have a blend with the government , community and the society at large. We are exploring ways to enhance some projects we have .We are exploring public-private initiatives in doing development agendas."

He further challenged the youth to be courageous and brave when seeking opportunities.

Daghar noted "In the past you could not see a PS of my age but now here we are, so let us go out of our way in ensuring that we build our future and the country."

 

Thursday, 05 October 2023 13:22

Naivas Opens 99th Branch In Mombasa

Naivas has opened its 99th outlet in Mombasa as part of its expansion plan to reach 100 stores countrywide.

The move by Naivas is part of the company’s ambitious expansion strategy aimed at consolidating its market leadership position and gaining an edge over other major retailers.

The new branch located along Sabasaba will serve clients from Majengo, Sabasaba and Tudor.

This will be the 11th branch in the Coast region.

"The opening of this branch shows our commitment to our clients in the Coast region. The Coast market is very important to us, it has been underserved and as Naivas we are keen to grow here. we have bigger plans for this region." said Andrea Von Paleske, Cheif of Strategy.

Adding " We have always stayed true to our roots that Naivas saves you money and that is the major reason behind our expansion."

Paleske noted that as investors they have also felt the effects of the tough economic times being experienced in the country.

Paleske charged "It is a fact that the economic status currently is not good and we have felt this through our customers and staff. We put alot of efforts in our promotions to ensure that we serve our customers well during this time."

 

President William Ruto has said Kenya is emerging as an attractive global investment destination for technology. 
 
He said investments in the digital sector will enhance the country's economic growth. 
 
The President said the establishment of the Amazon Web Services Development Centre in Nairobi will create job opportunities and enhance skills development. 
 
He said the Centre will make Kenya the second African hub from which its teams will be developing solutions for partners.
 
The launch comes just a fortnight after the President met AWS Executives in New York.
 
"We agreed on sustaining the development of a conducive business environment for them to expand their investment in Kenya," he noted. 
 
He spoke on Wednesday during the launch of the AWS development centre at Kofisi Riverside Square in Nairobi. 
 
Present were Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja, US Ambassador to Kenya Amb. Meg Whitman,  Amazon Web Services Support Satheesh and Heddese AWS regional lead, public sector sub-Sahara Mr Robin Njiru,
 
President Ruto said Amazon's choice of Kenya as its base to extend its global and African footprint was an endorsement of the country's competitiveness in the digital sector.
 
"Kenya has emerged as one of the most exciting frontiers of global tech competitiveness, with high revolutionary potential across all Amazon," he said. 
 
President Ruto said efforts to strengthen education in the country are meant to enhance Kenya's human capital.
 
"We will continue investing in education so that companies like Amazon can come to invest in Kenya," he said. 
 
Amb. Whitman pointed out that the launch of the AWS development centre is an endorsement of Kenya's business environment. 
 
"AWS is one of the most important tech companies in the world,  the fact that they have decided to set up a development centre in Kenya speaks volumes about this country and this administration," she said. 
 
Governor Sakaja said the AWS development centre will create numerous opportunities for talented youth in the country. 
 
"As a country, our cash crop is our talented and resilient youth," he said. 
 
Mr Heddese said AWS is keen on working with the Government in leveraging technology to impact meaningful change in the country. 
 
Mr Njiru lauded the government's decision to abolish the policy that required foreign-owned firms to sell at least 30% of their stakes to local investors. 
 
He noted the Government is committed to making the digital economy a priority citing the digitisation of 5,000 government services and the development of support infrastructure.

There was drama during the National Dialogue Committee meeting held on Tuesday, October 3 at the Bomas of Kenya after wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka clashed with EALA Mp Hassan Omar.

In a video doing rounds on social media and seen by this blog, the two leaders are seen hurling words at each other before the the committee co-chair Cecily Mbarire intervenes.

In the video Kalonzo says ""I have listened to Omar over time saying one constant factor and another constant factor. I want you to know one of those constant factors has been sitting here with you because as a running mate of Raila in 2013 and 2017. I know you were my secretary general."

Omar who was at one time the Wiper party secretary general fires back saying " "You were defeated in the election of 2007 na ukapita katikati yao."

Kalonzo reacts by saying " "No, that is a different thing. But of course, I did and I saved your country. You know if you stop being childish Omar we will make progress."

Adding " "So you will never be the governor of Mombasa I can give it to you,"

The remark angered Omar who fired back at Kalonzo.

"That is why you will never be president of Kenya I can give it to you. Usitutishe hapa," Omar said. 

At this time Mbarire is seen having a hard time trying to cool the two leaders stating '' I kindly urge the two of you to stop this, kindly contain yourselves. I now have to beg the two of you to stop what you are doing. Hassan kindly, Kindly. My co-chair, Kindly, Kindly." 

Kalonzo throws another one saying ""I am so ashamed that even at one time you were the secretary general of my party,"  Kalonzo said, occasioning another standoff.

 

Nigerian music sensation, King Perryy, is delighted to announce the forthcoming release of "Denge II," a captivating sequel to his chart-topping hit "Denge" from the acclaimed Continental Playlist EP.
 
The original track was a testament to King Perryy's unique musical prowess and magnetic charisma, and "Denge II'' promises to elevate the euphoria even higher as it unites King Perryy with Afrobeats star Runtown and Ghanaian reggae and dancehall icon Shatta Wale.
 
"Denge II" marks yet another milestone in the illustrious career of King Perryy, following the triumphant launch of his Continental Playlist EP earlier this year.
 
The EP, adorned with collaborations with notable artists like Tekno and Victony, witnessed the meteoric rise of infectious tracks like "Tight Condition," which scaled the heights to the 29th position on the Apple Music Top 100 songs chart in Nigeria.
 
Impressively, "Tight Condition" has also amassed over 2.2 million plays on Spotify alone and made its grand debut on the Spotify Top 50 Nigerian Charts.
 
This accolade further solidified King Perryy's eminence in the Nigerian music sphere, confirming his status as a reggae and dancehall artist destined for stardom.
 
Celebrated for his mastery of transcending musical boundaries, King Perryy has consistently left both enthusiasts and critics awe-inspired by his extraordinary musical aptitude. His recent collaboration with Runtown and Shatta Wale serves as a testament to his unswerving dedication to pushing the frontiers of African music.
 
This partnership is primed to inscribe King Perryy's name indelibly among Africa's preeminent musical virtuosos, while concurrently causing ripples across the global music panorama.
 
As "Denge II'' hits the airwaves and tantalizing hints of forthcoming music emerge, King Perryy embarks on a voyage of lyrical exploration and dynamic creativity, all the while remaining deeply entrenched in his southeastern roots.
 
His authentic narrative craft and finely honed lyrical skills have fostered a fervent following, steadily paving his way in 2022 with sizzling singles such as "Go German," featuring Bella Shmurda and Backroad Gee, as well as the "Turkey Nla'' remix featuring Tekno.
 
Following the resounding success of his highly acclaimed Continental Playlist EP and the imminent release of "Denge II," King Perryy continues to be driven by an unwavering commitment to community and the universal language of music.
 
The self-proclaimed "Citizen of The World’' has taken the Afro-dancehall realm by storm, garnering accolades from industry heavyweights like Timaya, Tekno, Kizz Daniels, and more.
 
He stands poised to ascend as one of today's foremost dancehall luminaries, armed with his effortless delivery, exceptional songwriting prowess, infectious energy, and an innate ability to illuminate any stage. King Perryy isn't merely a rising star; he's on an unmistakable trajectory to become a household name and a headline act of unparalleled stature.