Residents of Mombasa County have hailed Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) for streamlining operations at the Likoni Ferry Crossing channel since the Kenya Ferry Service.

According to the residents, the services improved drastically after the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) took over the management of the channel, from the disbanded Kenya Ferry Serices.

The crossing channel is used by over 300,000 passengers and 6,000 vehicles daily, leading to heavy congestion, particularly during peak hours in the morning and evening.

“We are grateful to the management of KPA, it has brought tremendous improvement. For two years the ferry precincts were synonymous with long lines of traffic stretching to the CBD. Some motorists used to cross late in the night,” said Evans Momanyi, a Mombasa resident.

Adding “Since KPA took over the operations at the Likoni crossing channel by incorporating Kenya Ferry Service staff to KPA there is a lot of changes, ostensibly the personnel feels motivated, there is professionalism, congestion has decreased, and hawkers have disciplined and no longer sell their products along the roads to avert accidents,”

In December last year(2023) Cabinet Secretary for Transport Kipchumba Murkomen  toured and inspected the ferry services in Kwale lauding the Kenya Ferry Service for a job well done.

"Since the Kenya Ports Authority took over the management of ferry services, efficiency has improved. This morning, I had the privilege of using the services as I travelled to Kwale on a working tour," Murkomen said on his X account.

During his tour, Murkomen interacted with the ferry staff including coxswain.

The management of the ferry services was transferred to KPA by former President Uhuru Kenyatta in late 2020.

The biggest urban street dance competition in the world, Red Bull Dance Your Style, has hit the road for a nationwide tour that stopped in Eldoret at Rupa’s Mall over the past weekend (13 April).

The Eldoret edition brought together the city’s dance community and lovers of dance for an unparalleled dance entertainment, networking and the highlight battle sessions with Michael ‘Mickey’ Mwenda emerging the winner and Elvis ‘Ecqo’ Clinton Otieno taking first runner-up position.

Michael Mwenda had this to say after the event, “I’m ecstatic to win the crowd’s votes! This victory marks a significant milestone for me. It's truly beyond what I could have imagined. The level of art here is astounding and it has been a thrill seeing and being part of all the action. Red Bull Dance Your Style has provided the Eldoret dance community with a platform to connect and display our talents.” 

The next stop for Red Bull Dance Your Style is United Mall Kisumu (27 April); and will make its way through various Kenyan cities and two universities qualifiers (KU and USIU) to find the best dancers. The top 2 winners from every qualifier will unite in Nairobi (13 July) at the national finals for the ultimate battle that will determine Kenya’s number one dancer and representative who will battle it out in Mumbai, India for the world finals (9 Nov). 

In Red Bull Dance Your Style, there are no judges because the crowd decides who wins by voting for their favorite dancers. The dancers’ creativity, freestyle, and musical skills are put to the test in front of a live audience. After each battle, spectators hold up blue or red placards to choose a winner. All urban dance styles are welcome except for break dancing– the only rule you can’t break. The DJ plays unpredictable music, and the dancers will have to adapt, dance their style and impress the crowd. In other words, YOU decide the champion, who guarantees a place in the world final.

Red Bull Dance Your Style is a global competition with 51 counties participating. Kenya’s ultimate champ will win an all-expense paid trip to India for the World Finals this November. Calling out all enthusiasts and lovers of dance to show up for your talent or your favourite dancer so check out where the next event is happening and come through with your squad. 

To join the competition, sign up for your preferred qualifier. You must be 18+ https://participate.redbull.com/en/events/red-bull-dance-your-style-kenya/2024

Red Bull Kenya continues to support dance talent in Kenya and upskill local dance communities while exposing them to different levels of dance on a global stage through the international mixed-style dance competition (on its fifth Kenyan edition this year).

KEY EVENT DATE QUALIFIERS:

• Kisumu 27 April

• Kenyatta University 11 May

• Mombasa 25 May

• USIU 15 June

• Nairobi 29 June

• National Finals 13 July.

The port of Lamu is poised to become a hub of transshipment business after the acquisition of three new ship-to-shore gantry cranes.

The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) acquired the cranes from China at a total cost of USD 31 million (approximately Sh4 billion).

The cranes arrived in Lamu port last Sunday with the vessel carrying the cranes MV Zhen Hua 24, berthing at the port’s second berth.

KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto said that the cranes are expected to boost operations at Kenya’s second commercial port.

“The procurement of these cranes underscores our commitment in managing our premier ports, including the Port of Mombasa and Port of Lamu which serve as vital gateways for regional and international trade, connecting our nation to the global economy”.

“These cutting-edge cranes, equipped with advanced technology and capabilities, will revolutionize our operations and position the Port as a global maritime hub,” said Ruto.

The cranes have a span of 30.5 meters with a lifting height of 60 meters and an outreach of 62 meters with a back reach of 16 meters.

Captain Ruto said that what sets the cranes apart is their advanced technology and capabilities.

“These cranes have been specifically designed to address the unique challenges posed by Lamu's windy conditions, with twin-box booms ensuring stability and operational reliability,” Ruto said.

Furthermore, with a reach of 24 containers across and the ability to handle modern vessels over 18,000 TEUs, these cranes are equipped to compete with the best ports in the world and attract Super Post Panamax vessels”

The port serves as a critical pillar of the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor project and is expected to connect Kenya to South Sudan and Ethiopia and is also expected to link northern Kenya to the Middle Belt of Africa which runs from Dakar, Senegal in the west to Lamu in the east.

The LAPSSET Corridor Program encompasses a vast network of infrastructure projects, including highways, railways, and international airports.

Since the operationalization of the port in 2021, Lamu port has to date handled 59 vessels that called to the port making a substantial increase in cargo and container traffic.

In 2023 alone, the Port of Lamu handled 37,576 metric tons of cargo, marking a substantial increase from 6,539 MT in 2022, reflecting a growth of 31,037 MT.

Additionally, container traffic saw a significant rise, with 1,779 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) recorded in 2023 compared to 382 TEUs in 2022, representing an increase of 1,397 TEUs.

“With a total container capacity of 1.2 million TEUs across its three berths of 400 meters each, the Port is poised to become a key driver of economic growth and regional integration,”

"These impressive statistics underscore the vital role that the Port of Lamu plays in facilitating trade and driving economic growth in the region” Ruto said.

Coast leaders have been challenged to unite  and work closely with each other to achieve faster development in the region.

According to Mombasa youth leader, Evans Momanyi the divisions among leaders is the main cause of slow and lack of developement in the region.

Momanyi  told the leaders to always put the interests of wananchi ahead of all other partisan considerations.

"Political parties are just vehicles that you use to get to office but you should not allow them to divide you. You are all from the same region so work together and solve the challenges facing the region." said Momanyi.

Momanyi noted that  time has come for leaders to think of how they would like to be remembered by current and future generations.

Momanyi "We must start thinking about the future, what will the future generation say about you as the leader, is there any impact that you will have created in their lives. Start asking yourselves how will the politics of division, hate and backstabbing help the region."

His sentiments comes just days after Coast politicians led by Senate speaker Amason Kingi also called for unity among the leaders.

Speaking during an iftar hosted by EALA Mp Hassan Omar, Kingi challenged the politicians to look for a common political party with interests of the region and people at heart.

https://ommydalla.co.ke/politics/item/3684-call-for-coast-unity-dominates-mp-omar-annual-iftar-dinner#google_vignette

Kenya's vibrant culinary scene is transforming as customers beckon for an elevated experience to satisfy their taste buds.

The Sankara Hotel, nestled within Westlands,  Nairobi, are at the heart of this revolution with their Magical Sunday Brunch.  

Every first Sunday of the month, individuals with a discerning palate and an adventurous spirit embark on an engaging journey of taste. For them,this is not just for a meal; but a magical experience tailored to meet their need for luxury, and this five star hotel certainly understands the assignment. 

Imagine stepping into a world that feels like a culinary celebration, filled with the tantalizing aromas of more than fifteen oriental cuisines  from around the world. From delectable confectionery to savoury sushi, one was sure to indulge in a journey unlike any other.

To go  with the immaculate ambience and great music, Tanqueray Gin came in as partners elevating the experience to new heights. 

Renowned for its lightness, low calorie count, and mixability, Tanqueray sets the stage for a symphony of flavors, perfectly complementing the diverse array of dishes on offer. From the moment guests arrive, they are enveloped in a world of luxury and refinement.

A mentorship setup awaits at the entrance, guiding guests through the intricacies of the Tanqueray brand and offering a welcome cocktail to set the tone for the culinary adventure ahead. 

The Magical Sunday Brunch offers more than just a feast for the senses; it is a melting pot of diverse cultures and backgrounds with a gathering of Kenya's elite, families seeking quality time, and expatriates craving a taste of home.

Here conversations flow as freely as the cocktails and unforgettable memories are created beyond the last bite.

The Sankara Autograph offers an experience that changes the game in the culinary scene calling for individuals to shun the mundane and embrace the extraordinary. Brunch is certainly better and we cannot wait for the next taste of magic. 

Call for unity among Coast leaders dominated an iftar dinner organised by  East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Hassan Omar, on Sunday.

Leaders present at the iftar emphasised the importance of prioritising and listening to the region's concerns, irrespective of political allegiances.

The leaders mainly from  the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) vowed to unite and speak in one voice.

Senate Speaker Amason Kingi challenged the leaders to join his Pamoja African Alliance party.

“When I started the Pamoja African Alliance (PAA) Party, it was not an easy one. Today we are calling for unity to plan the 2027 politics while we are in different political parties. As long as you belong to different political formations forget about unity,  ODM will do their way and UDA. If truly we want unity then we must look for our own house (party)." argued Kingi.

Adding " I have been listening to all of you here calling for unity, whatever you have all said is because your party leaders are not here, if they were here you would not said some of the things that you said. As Coast leaders we have to stop being political puppets and the only way is we must find our won House as a region."

Kingi called on Coast leaders to go back to the drawing board and find out the reason and cause of disunity among the leaders.

"Just go and search for the speeches of Coast leaders from the era of the late Ngala until now, the speeches are all the same ,  We are simply playing the tape and if we don't sit down and see where the problem is then things will not change for the next 100 years. We must change the narrative and this is only possible if we get to know where the problem is.''

On his part EALA Mp Hassan Omar lashed out at some leaders from the region for criticising and attacking politicians from different political leaders whenever they unite.

"We have come along way as the people of Pwani, we cannot allow some few individuals to come and divide us. Who are you to go to social media and start criticisng a leader just because he was seen with another leader from a rival party. This is stupidity" said Omar.

Adding " Any leader who has our interests at heart, we must stand with the them as the Coast people irrespective of their political party. Raila Odinga and Ruto United, for us we will not wait for anyone to come and tell us to unite, we will continue working together with like minded leaders."

https://ommydalla.co.ke/politics/item/3678-omar-joho-new-bromance-shakes-mombasa-uda-members#google_vignette

Omar noted that he will support former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho in his bid to take over from Raila Odinga as ODM party leader.

Omar charged "We will unite and continue working together, we will push Hassan Joho to where he wants to go because he is one of us"

Speaking at the same forum, Jomvu Mp Badi Twalib called on Coast politicians to stop politics of division and witch hunt.

"No one tells me what to say in a public forum, I speak my words without mincing them. As leaders we need to stop witch hunt. We need to be proud and support each other." said Twalib.

Twalib emphasized the need to prioritise serving the locals over political party interests, urging them to move beyond divisive politics and focus on progressing together.

Former First Lady of Kenya,Margaret Kenyatta, presided over the closing ceremony of the inaugural Leadership Program for County Social Transformation held at the Sarova Whitesands Hotel in Mombasa County.

The Beyond Zero Initiative has partnered with the Kenya School of Government (KSG), the oldest public sector training institute in the country, to establish the Margaret Kenyatta Institute (MKI). The establishment of the MKI and initiatives such as the Leadership Program for County Social Transformation highlight the broader recognition of women's crucial role in driving economic growth and social progress.

In her address to the first cohorts of the program, Mrs. Kenyatta noted that the vision, mission, and mandate of the Institute, which is embedded in the Kenya School of Government's core mandate, is to transform society through services and programs that promote Social Justice, Gender Equality, Wellness and Health, and Empowerment.

The caucus gathered County First Ladies from Kilifi, Elgeyo Marakwet, Mig ori, West Pokot, Kakamega, Narok, Siaya, and Bomet to engage in strategic discussions and initiatives focused on promoting social change at the grassroots level.  Margaret Kenyatta extended her gratitude to the participating County First Ladies for their involvement in the event.

"I thank you for being the first cohort of this inaugural program which recognizes the unique leadership roles you play in your counties as spouses of Governors. We applaud you for your diverse aspirations, in what may sometimes be uncharted paths or challenging roles you play to make a difference in your communities,"

 The Kenya School of Government collaborated with the Beyond Zero Initiative to craft the Leadership Program curriculum. Initiatives such as the Leadership Program for County Social Transformation highlight the increasing recognition of the essential role women play in fostering both economic development and social advancement.

"I hope that the case studies and experiential learning reflect the opportunities to help you overcome challenges and promote continuous engagement in the future," Mrs. Kenyatta remarked.

During the week-long event, the First Ladies were introduced to a range of strategies and initiatives to promote social change in their respective counties.

Notable speakers included Lady Justice Njoki Ndungu, H.E. Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, former First Lady of Ekiti State, Nigeria, Nicole Brzeski and Cora Neumann of the Global First Ladies Association, Lucy Mathenge from UN Women, and Jacqueline Wambua from ROCHE E.A, among others.

The discussions revolved around topics such as the Interface between Government and Politics, Gender and Social Development, Legacy Building for Enduring Impact, Championing Causes for Social Transformation, Philanthropy and Resource Mobilization, and Partnerships.

With confidence, the former First Lady expressed her belief that this training will empower County First Ladies to champion noble causes in their respective regions, contributing to a brighter future for all citizens of Kenya. Also present at the ceremony were: Chairperson, Kenya School of Government, Hon. Rtd. Justice Charles Nyachae, Lynette Otwori, Acting Director of MKI, and senior administrative officials from KSG.