Former Taita Taveta governor Granton Samboja is back on the airwaves. The veteran broadcaster turn politician has announced his return to the radio with a Gospel show.

The new show dubbed “ibada Ya Anguo’ airs every Sunday at Anguo radio station that he owns, located at Voi in Taita Taveta county.

This is the first gospel show for Samboja since he left the office of the governor of Taita Taveta County. Those who know him say he is best at hosting Rumba music shows.

“Maishani Mwangu ninaye yesu,Kwenye Raha na karaha,”said Samboja popularly known as ‘Mshapa’. In his show, he preaches and plays gospel tunes as he interacts with his listeners.

But his latest change of tune to host gospel show has left many wondering. Samboja has previously worked at Radio citizen and Milele fm among others.

Since he lost his governor re-election bid to now the current governor Andrew Mwadime, Samboja has remained a low key politician with limited public appearance.

Samboja pursued Journalism before starting his career in the media industry. He ventured into other different interests apart from media in his passion and determination to be the best he can.

His first media house to join was the Royal Media Services and he was a great leader who soldiered on the placement of Radio Citizens to its competitive position a few months after it was established.

His courage and zeal to service delivery saw him appointed by President Uhuru to serve as the chairperson of Coast Water Services Board in 2015.He later resigned from the position in February 2017 and joined politics, he would later serve as a one term governor before losing in the 2022 general elections.

Samboja, who contested on Jubilee Party ticket, lost to independent candidate Andrew Mwadime, Samboja got 23,701 votes against Mwadime's 49,901.

The Kenya Correspondents Association (KCA) has urged journalists covering the anti government demonstrations to be mindful of their security.

According to KCA this is a very tough time for local journalists.

In a statement, KCA Chairman William Janak also called on media houses to ensure there are proper safety measures for their journalists.

"As KCA we know that journalists are undergoing alot of difficulties during the demonstrations over high cost of living by the opposition, our recognition of this gives us the chance to tell journalists to be careful in situations of conflict because demonstrations are situations of conflicts" said Janak 

Adding " This is a very dangerous time for journalists we would like them to take care of their safety and security. If there are dangerous situations where one thinks they should not get involved we advise journalists not to get involved".

Janak further called on government to ensure that journalists are protected in the cause of their work taking issue with incidents where security officers posed as journalists saying it puts journalists in danger.

Janak charged "We have seen police officers now mixing with demonstrators especially those on plain cloths and pretending to be journalists, this is dangerous to journalists. We condemn the attempt by security agencies to try to pose as journalists and after doing that they pounce on demonstrators , this puts journalists in danger and can even be attacked by demonstrators." 

Uber is set to introduce a new security feature, audio recording.

According to a statement from the company,  the new feature  will allow a customer  to record trip audio and share it with the Uber Support team in the event of a safety incident.

"This feature will be launching soon, adding to our strong safety toolkit, and has been built taking your peace of mind into consideration." reads the statement.

Adding "If you ever feel unsafe while on a trip, you can record audio directly through the Safety Toolkit in the newest version of the Uber app. If a safety-related incident occurs, you can send the recording to the Uber Support team. Your privacy is protected and the audio will only be reviewed if you request that the Uber Support team review it.

"Our team can only listen to an audio recording if you choose to share it with us through a safety ticket - available in the app. All audio recordings are encrypted and stored securely on your device. Neither you nor your driver will be able to access them and Uber will not access which we have not been asked to."

This comes amid concerns over the safety of customers when using the online taxi applications.

The government has ordered for the closure of all Primary and Schools in Nairobi and Mombasa counties on Wednesdays.

According to a joint statement from Interior minister Kithure Kindiki and his Education counter part Ezekiel Machogu there are credible security intelligence of some criminal elements who are planning to unleash violence and terror to members of the public tomorrow during Azimio protests in Nairobi and Mombasa.

The statement further states that the said individuals are planning to carry out their activities in schools.

"The ministry of education shall announce the resumption of learning in the schools upon assessment of the security situation tomorrow" reads the statement

ODM leadership in Mombasa county has insisted that Azimio La Umoja demonstrations are still on tomorrow (Wednesday).

Speaking to the press on Tuesday Azimio leaders led by Mombasa senator Mohamed Faki maintained that they will participate in the Azimio demonstrations planned for Wednesday even as the security apparatus outlaws it.

Faki said police who disrupt them as they exercise their democratic right of picketing, will be held personally accountable asking the police to stick to their role of maintaining law and order.

“Mombasa has been peaceful and we shall continue to make it so, but that peace should not be construed that we have no right to protest when our rights are violated, we shall defend our rights by coming out to demonstrate,”Faki added.

The leaders who spoke in Mombasa yesterday also codenamed the withdrawal of security detail to a section of Azimio leadership terming it illegal and a violation of their constitutional right.

“Some of the Mps security has been withdrawn, we don’t want to name them but already of them have been withdrawn, we say this is not allowed,” said Faki adding that police should not violate the right to picket.

The Mps who participated in the briefing include Rashid Bedzimba, Mombasa senator Mohamed Faki, Mombasa women rep Zamzam Mohamed among other MCAs.

“Kenyans have a right to picket if their welfare is not considered, and we wish if the president could withdraw those sentiments he uttered asking leaders to protect their areas fearing the demonstrations, “said Faki.

This as it becomes apparent that Kenya Kwanza leadership in Mombasa plans to counter the protest planned by Azimio La Umoja in Mombasa.

Led by East Africa Legislative Assembly (EALA) Member of Parliament Hassan Omar, UDA leaders said they will not sit pretty and watch Azimio goons paralise business activities and the general economy of Mombasa.

“We can’t accept you to cause economic turmoil in Mombasa, I want to tell our women representative , senator and the ODM Mps that enough is enough, let them do it,  we will be behind the police patrolling and to see who dares,” Omar said.

Adding " He (Raila Odinga" has already killed the economy in his Nyanza backyard now he wants to destroy our economy in Mombasa, we cannot allow it"

Omar who is also the UDA Vice Chairman accused ODM leadership in Mombasa of taking advantage of the poor for their self greed.

“We will not accept any minute of protest, even if its three minutes, we have reports that they are planning demonstrations  in Bangladesh, Maweni, Kisauni,and Majengo they want to use the poor to benefit themselves, we will be on the streets ourselves to protect our property,” claimed Omar.

Omar spoke at a meeting with UDA leaders at Kizingo where he said they will cooperate with security apparatus to ensure no one dares to destroy or cause harm in Wednesdays planned demonstration.

Omar who was accompanied by  former Starehe Mp Charles Njagua alias Jaguar  asked residents to continue with their businesses as usual since they will corporate with Authorities and security apparatus to tame goons planning to  disrupt peace in Mombasa.

 “We have talked to regional commissioner Rhoda Onyancha to ensure peace reigns in coast, and leave politics for us, we will fight politically on behalf of our people and our government,” said Omar. 

Logo's Hope, the World's largest floating bookfair is set to make it's maiden voyage to Mombasa.

It will dock at the Mbaraki wharf and will be open to the public from 23rd August until the 3rd October from Tuesday to Sunday. A preparation team is in the country.

This comes 18 years after its identical sister ship Duolos made a similar visit to Mombasa.

Constanza Figueroa, a member of the advance team said during a press briefing that the ship operated by GBA (Good Books for All) goal is to share knowledge, help, and hope in every port it visits. It has so far called on over 150 countries and territories.

“Visitors to Logos Hope are offered an expanded selection of over 5,000 different titles of books at affordable prices. They cover a wide range of subjects including science, sports, hobbies, cookery, arts, medicine, languages, and faith.

With children’s titles, academic texts, dictionaries, atlases, and more, the book fair has something for everyone,” said Figueroa.

She added that the ship has an international crew including Kenyans and staff of volunteers from around 60 different countries who live and work on the ships, devoting one or more years of their lives to serving on board.

She extolled Kenyans for their hospitality urging them to replicate the same gesture to more than 300 volunteers that will arrive aboard the ship.

The ship crew will promote literacy and education, cross-cultural cooperation, and social awareness, and reflect God’s compassion for the world.

“The ship crew will provide aid, and community care, and partner with local community groups to bring hope to people,” said Figueroa.

Nicolas Civilotti, an advance team member said the vessel is currently sailing to Muscat, Oman after visiting Abu Dhabi, it will visit Seychelles before coming to Mombasa.

Civilotti said ship crew will transfer knowledge, and get in touch with local organizations dealing with health to make donations.

Walid Timimi, Marine Services Manager, Inchcape Services said they are working with a multi-stakeholder committee to prepare for the ship’s arrival.

“We are glad we have a couple of Kenyans working on board in the engine room and hopefully as they are here they will partner with so many organizations as part of that they have engaged the Bandari Maritime Academy, in August they will be a joint training for the seafarers,” said Timimi.

He added that there are numerous opportunities that Kenya will tap into while working with GBA.

 “We are glad that GBA has considered the new ship will be coming to Mombasa this time, and hopefully it will open more doors for more of their ships coming to this side of the world,” said Timimi.

Femi One, renowned artist and philanthropist, successfully held two events during her inspiring campus tour, which took place at KCA University and ZETECH University.

The events were organized as part of her commitment to empowering the youth through her foundation, One for One Foundation.

The highlight of the tour was a talent search competition aimed at providing young individuals with a platform to showcase their skills and pursue their dreams.

Femi One's One for One Foundation is dedicated to enabling young people to overcome poverty by nurturing and realizing their talents and aspirations.

With a firm belief in the potential of every young person, the foundation is committed to offering essential resources, support, and opportunities necessary for unleashing their full potential.

Through various initiatives such as education, skill-building programs, and mentorship, One for One Foundation strives to break the constraints of poverty and help young individuals achieve their goals.

The campus tour commenced at KCA University, where Femi One captivated the audience with her electrifying performance. Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, she spoke passionately about the importance of self-belief and determination in the pursuit of success.

Femi One emphasized the power of education and skill development in unlocking doors to a brighter future. She shared personal anecdotes and experiences to inspire the students, encouraging them to dream big and work hard towards their goals.

The event at ZETECH University witnessed an overwhelming response from talented individuals, eager to showcase their skills and compete in the talent search competition. The participants displayed exceptional abilities in various categories, including music, dance, spoken word, and visual arts.

Femi One, along with a panel of esteemed judges, carefully evaluated the performances, recognizing the outstanding talent on display. The winners were rewarded with exciting prizes, including mentorship opportunities with Femi One herself.

Femi One expressed her gratitude towards KCA University and ZETECH University for hosting the campus tour and providing a platform to engage with the vibrant student community. She highlighted the significance of collaborations between artists, educational institutions, and foundations to uplift the youth and create a positive impact on society.

The successful campus tour is a testament to Femi One's dedication and commitment to empowering young people. Her efforts through the One for One Foundation align perfectly with her vision to build a brighter future for all. Femi One continues to inspire and motivate individuals to pursue their passions, break free from the chains of poverty, and achieve their aspirations.

The Iranian government will set up a motor vehicle manufacturing plant in Mombasa, President William Ruto has disclosed.

According to President Ruto the plant which will be named 'Kifaru' will offer relief to Kenyan mechanics and other stakeholders in the automotive industry.

Speaking in state House Nairobi on Wednesday State House, Nairobi, alongside Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Ruto said this will help create job opportunities to Kenyans.

"His Excellency conveyed to me information that will be good news for stakeholders in our mechanical and automotive sector, including dealers, engineers, technicians and other workers: Iran’s intention to set up a motor vehicle assembly plant in Mombasa to manufacture an indigenous Iranian vehicle that has been given the Kiswahili name – ‘Kifaru’. I am confident that the project is as unstoppable as this name suggests,"  said Ruto.

President Ruto met Raisi at State House Nairobi during which a delegation from the two countries had an opportunity to deliberate on a myriad of issues.

President William Ruto said trade volumes between the two countries are still low but with potential to grow.

He explained that Kenya and Iran will strike a formula that will facilitate higher exports of tea, coffee and meat.

“This will bring about the much-desired trade balance that is in favour of Iran.”

President Raisi lauded Kenya’s commitment to creating a friendly environment for foreign businesses.

He said more Iranian firms will establish operations in the country, paving their way to accessing EAC, COMESA and AfCFTA markets of more than 1.4 billion people.

“The Kenya-Iran relations can always be strengthened for our benefit,” he said during a media briefing.

Renowned Kenyan artist King Kaka is thrilled to release his latest song, "BESHTE YANGU", coinciding with the significant occasion of World Population Day. Developed in collaboration with UNESCO, the song delivers a powerful message on Positive Masculinity, Mental Health, and HIV Awareness.

The highly anticipated launch will take place at the University of Nairobi, bringing together students from University of Nairobi, Kenya Medical Training College, faculty members, and the wider community to celebrate the importance of investing in youth education, health, and well-being to build a sustainable future for both individuals and societies.

King Kaka declared: "I am proud to promote Positive Masculinity, Mental Health, and HIV Awareness! This song is important for all young people on the continent. We all need a 'BESHTE YANGU' when facing life's challenges, and this song is an appeal to support each other and show solidarity. The song is in Kiswahili, but it is designed to appeal to all young people as it is showcasing challenges, we could all face. Listening to each other and asking for help is an important part of the solution. And it is okay not to be okay men."

Young people in Sub-Saharan Africa face significant challenges, including high school dropout rates, new HIV infections, gender-based violence (GBV), and early and unintended pregnancies (EUPs).

In Kenya, with a population of 47.5 million, addressing the Sexual and Reproductive Health needs of its 7.9 million young people aged 15-24 remains a pressing issue.

184 000 young individuals in this age group are living with HIV, with 17 000 new infections occurring each year. Negative Sexual and Reproductive Health outcomes, such as unintended pregnancies and violence, disrupt the well-being of students, limiting their potential.

In response to these challenges, the University of Nairobi, Kenya Medical Training College, and UNESCO have joined forces through the O3 Plus project, which aims to increase knowledge about HIV, unplanned pregnancies, mental health, and gender-based violence.

The project emphasizes social accountability, supports health education, creates an enabling policy environment, and advocates for zero tolerance of harassment and violence.

O3 Plus is being implemented across the University of Nairobi's 10 campuses and 3 Kenya Medical Training College campuses, prioritizing student well-being and fostering a safe environment for all.

Commenting on the song, Prof Iribe Mwangi, the Chairman of the Department of Kiswahili at the University of Nairobi said, "I am very happy that this song by King Kaka, 'Beshte Yangu', is launched on this important World Population Day and is in Kiswahili which is now one of the official languages of the African Union. It is a sweet and educational song, especially for young people in relation to positive masculinity, mental health, and HIV. It is my hope that apart from having fun, young people will understand the educational message intended by the artist." 

"BESHTE YANGU" will undoubtedly captivate audiences with its powerful message and infectious rhythms. By launching the song on World Population Day, King Kaka, in collaboration with UNESCO, aims to ignite a deeper appreciation of the importance of young people’s Education for Health and Well-being in the continent, while inspiring the youth audience to reach their full potential.