Cybersecurity specialist Exclusive Networks Africa has announced a new local partnership with Akamai Technologies, the cloud company that powers and protects life online, with a view to assisting the organisation to further entrench itself across the African continent.

According to Stefan van de Giessen, Security & GSI Lead Africa at Exclusive Networks Africa, the two businesses have already worked together on a significant local project, which saw the successful implementation recently of a microsegmentation strategy for an African telecommunications group.

“Having collaborated for the past six months on this particular deal, Akamai opted to broaden our partnership and leverage Exclusive Networks Africa’s extensive partner base across East, West and South Africa, as well as the Indian Ocean Islands and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region, in line with the company’s strategy. Together, we will focus on delivering the benefits of microsegmentation to local enterprises, governments and telco organisations in particular.”

Software-based microsegmentation is an emerging security best practice that offers several advantages over more established approaches, like network or application segmentation.

These traditional methods rely heavily on network-based controls that are coarse and often cumbersome to manage, notes Van de Giessen. However, the software-based segmentation element of microsegmentation separates security controls from the underlying infrastructure and provides businesses with the flexibility to extend protection and visibility anywhere.

The added granularity that microsegmentation offers is essential at a time when many organisations are adopting cloud services and new deployment options, like containers, that make traditional perimeter security less relevant.

Says Van de Giessen: “Microsegmentation is essentially a software-defined network overlay that, through AI intelligence, allows for greater visibility around all assets within the network. This infrastructure visualisation is helpful in that it makes activity in the environment easier to identify and understand.

“This approach allows companies to ringfence their applications and servers and define which ones are able to talk to each other. This is critical in the case of, for instance, a ransomware attack, as the malware is not able to spread to other machines within the network due to these authorisation parameters. The ability to lock down a device individually allows for greater control over the blast radius of an attack, which would not be possible with the use of a firewall, for instance.”

Furthermore, he explains, a software-based microsegmentation solution can be rolled out faster, seamlessly and with far less capital expenditure (Capex) than would be required to purchase firewall appliances and additional hardware.

“Microsegmentation also allows businesses to avoid lengthy implementation timelines – taking rollout timelines from over a year down to weeks - as well as the unavoidable related downtime, which comes with a hefty price tag. In addition, the reduced maintenance - and reduced management effort needed - results in far lower operating expenses (Opex) over time, in the form of labour and resource savings.”

“Microsegmentation may be a newer concept to many, but it is becoming an increasingly important tool for IT teams challenged with ensuring that security policies and compliance keep pace with the rapid rate of change in today’s dynamic data centre, cloud, and hybrid cloud environments,” Van de Giessen concludes.

Speaking about the partnership, Hans Nipshagen (Regional Vice President of Channels and Alliances EMEA at Akamai) said: ‘We are excited to team up with Exclusive Networks and their strong ecosystem of local partners to deliver our microsegmentation services, enhancing cybersecurity for customers across the African markets.’

In a bid to elevate passenger travel experience, the Kenya Railways announced in May this year (2024) plans to introduce a premium coach service on the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) popular Nairobi-Mombasa route. 

In a statement on Tuesday, May 14, the corporation intimated that it is about to make its customers' trips unforgettable but did not give the exact date when the services will be in place.

"Luxury is about to hit the tracks! KR Premium is designed to make your trips between Nairobi and Mombasa unforgettable. Watch this space!" read the statement. 

The good news is that the premium coaches have finally arrived at the Mombasa port.

The four Premium Coaches are among a batch of ten economy class coaches, one dining car, one power car and four first class coaches.

The coaches will accommodate 28 passengers, providing ample legroom and personal space.

The seats are designed to recline fully, ensuring ultimate relaxation throughout the journey.

 In addition to extra storage options for travelers with additional baggage, the KR Premium Service includes designated shoe storage space for neatly storing shoes.

They will also have automated window shutters and seats that can rotate to face any direction transforming the journey into a luxurious experience.

Segregated from other compartments, the premium coach offers privacy and exclusivity, allowing passengers to work, relax, or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Furthermore, the premium Class passengers will have access to VIP lounges and benefit from priority boarding and disembarkation at terminals, adding to the convenience of their journey.

Daring Africa 2024, Nissan’s overland adventure across eight countries with four Nissan Navara pick-ups and an X-Trail SUV, is preparing for the eighth and final leg of the odyssey, joining Nissan’s LCV manufacturing hub in South Africa and the company’s PV assembly plant in Egypt.

To date, Daring Africa has covered 7 000kms across seven countries giving more than 80 local journalists immersive real-life real-time experiences of the all new built of more Nissan Navara, while sharing the story of the journey with 3 500 media across the rest of the continent.

The journey has been a resounding success to date, says Nissan South Africa and Independent Markets Africa Managing Director Maciej Klenkiewicz. He saw the convoy off from the Rosslyn factory, the African home of the all new built of more Nissan Navara, and he travelled to Nairobi to welcome the convoy when it made its penultimate stop last month before preparing for the last leg.

“When you think about it, these vehicles have travelled 7 000 kms without a single mechanical issue – not even a flat tyre – travelling over some of the toughest road conditions imaginable. It is an incredible achievement,” he says.

Nissan Africa President, Jordi Vila is just as impressed.

“It has been an amazing journey so far. We set out to celebrate our African footprint and our 60-year-old LCV legacy on the continent through this incredible vehicle which of course was designed for Africa and is built in Africa by Africans, and I have no doubt that we have proved our point.” he noted.

Daring Africa began by heading due east out of Pretoria to Nelspruit in South Africa’s easternmost province, Mpumalanga, and from there into Mozambique to the capital Maputo. After the standard shop at the Nissan Mozambique showroom, the odyssey headed north up the coast, recording some unforgettable images in the process as the Navara showed its prowess on miles of beach sand.

From Mozambique, it was off to Zimbabwe via the Eastern Highlands and Africa’s second highest waterfall, Mutarazi. Daring Africa stopped in Harare to show off the Navara to key customers, before turning north over the Kariba Dam and into Zambia.

Traversing the Luangwa Valley, the crew headed for Lake Malawi and then into Tanzania, around the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro and then up past Kenya’s Amboseli National Park into the capital Nairobi.

“This has been an epic experience so far for everyone involved,” says Nissan Africa Head of Communications Ramy Mohareb, “it really has been Daring in every possible way. The roads have been challenging but the sights and the experiences that we have all gained have been invaluable. We have been able to renew old relationships and forge new ones as we shared our vision for Africa on the road and in fireside chats with media members and influencers at night”.

He is particularly happy with the outreach element, which has allowed the team to give local media immersive experiences in the Navara that they had never experienced before, as well as showcasing the vehicle to fleet owners and key customers in the different markets.

This was a very important aspect, says Sherief Eldessouky, Nissan Africa Managing Director, as a key part of Daring Africa has been to amplify the Navara’s attributes across existing African markets as Nissan opens new markets for the Rosslyn made vehicle in North Africa, with the Navara on the cusp of being introduced to Egypt, Algeria, and Libya.

It has also been a wonderful platform for the Nissan X-Trail, launched in South Africa last year and in Egypt this year to prove its worth as the daring family adventure vehicle, running in support of the expedition alongside the tough, built of more Navara.

“I can’t wait to finally welcome the expedition to Egypt, finally joining the Hands that Build from our African LCV hub in Rosslyn with the Hands that Build at our African Passenger Vehicle hub in Cairo. It really will be a fitting finale to a truly bold and daring odyssey, just like we planned it,” Eldessouky concluded.

Talented Kenyan singer and performer based in New York, Mia Ivy makes a comeback with her soulful voice and catchy melodies that have captivated audiences over the years.

Mia started singing at a young age and quickly discovered her passion for music.

Influenced by artists such as Celine Dion, Yola Semedo and Brenda Fassie, Mia Ivy's music blends elements of pop and Afro-fusion to create a unique sound that is all her own.

Her powerful vocals and soulful performances resonate with audiences, drawing them in and leaving a lasting impact.

Her latest release “Baby” is a soul-soothing love ballad that talks about love and passion for her better half in an extensive and capacious way.

Produced by the talented Kisumu-based music producer and professional sound engineer; Crazy Monkey, the production levels and surety of the song is undoubtedly a touch of class and dedication to the art. 

Ivy has performed at various venues, events and livestreams, including TikTok, gaining a loyal following of fans who appreciate her authenticity and talent. She is working on her album, ' Project 6’, which is set to be released later this year.

With her drive and determination, Mia Ivy is poised to make a significant mark on the music scene and establish herself as a rising star.

King Charles III has send a message to the England national team following their defeat to Spain on Sunday night.

In his message the King urged players in the England national team to hold their heads high.

In a message to Coach Gareth Southgate, the King said that anyone who has participated in sports knows how painful such a loss can be.

"Although victory may have eluded you this evening, nevertheless my wife and I join all my family in urging you and your support team to hold your heads high," he said.

"All those who have participated in sporting activities at any level will know how utterly despairing such a result can feel when the prize was so near - and will join me in sending heartfelt sympathy, even as we congratulate Spain." 

King Charles went on to say that reaching the European Championship finals is still a great achievement for the team.

He insisted that it is an achievement that brings with it pride to the nation.

The King added that many triumphs lie ahead for the England national team.

On Sunday night, England lost 2-1 to Spain in a late winner scored by Mikel Oyarzabal in the Euro 2024 final at Berlin's Olympiastadion.

This was the second successive European Championship final England lost.

The Port of Mombasa is projected to handle 1.8 million TEUs by the end of the year 2024.

KPA Managing Director Capt. William Ruto, on Saturday evening highlighted the port’s impressive performance, announcing that it had surpassed 1 million TEUs, reaching a total of 1,003,208 TEUs by yesterday.

Ruto, who was speaking at the Port of Mombasa during the inaugural visit of MV Ever Vim, a vessel owned by the Evergreen Shipping Line, attributed this success to the port's modernization efforts, a dedicated workforce, and enhanced operational efficiency.

In 2023, the port handled 1.6 million 20-foot equivalent container units (TEUs), a significant increase from the 1.45 million TEUs recorded in 2022.

"Our projections as a port this year is that we are targeting to do 1.8 million TEUS which is more than ten per cent growth compared to what we handled last year,” said Ruto

The KPA MD also announced that the port set a new performance record in the month of May, by handling 176,000 Teus, which translates to about 6,000 Teus per day.

The staller performance coupled with reduced waiting and turn-around time he said have increased confidence among globally renowned shipping lines to consider using Mombasa port as their port of choice.

“The presence of this vessel underscores the growing confidence that major shipping lines have in the Port of Mombasa. Evergreen are among the top users of our port and we recently welcomed MV EVER VOW, a vessel from the same shipping line, further solidifying our position as a preferred port of call,” he said.

The 3110-TEU capacity vessel is built with green shipping technology and is expected to discharge 2,499 TEUs and load about 2,700 Teus..

The ship’s particulars include a length overall of 209.8 meters, a draft of 11.5 meters and a gross tonnage of 35,697.

During the event, Capt. Ruto presented a certificate of first call to the captain of the vessel Liang Wei, acknowledging the vessel's maiden arrival.

Amr Abdesalam, Evergreen Line headquarter Representative lauded the efficiency at the port of Mombasa saying that this has contributed to them bringing in more vessels to Mombasa.

He said that as shipping line they have no doubt that their vessels are not only safe in Kenya, but the operations are also very efficient.

"We are happy with using this port of Mombasa because it is the best in Africa. This is not coming by chance but due to hard work”

“The performance of the port speaks volume, initially we could wait for five days or more but now has reduced to less than two,” he said.

 Femi One proudly reflects on the impactful milestones achieved by The One For One Foundation, an initiative she launched with a passion for empowering youth and fostering community development.

In February 2023, Femi One officially launched The One For One Foundation with a mentorship event at her former primary school, Murema Primary in Mwiki, Kasarani.

This inspiring event marked the beginning of the Foundation's mission to nurture young minds and provide them with opportunities for growth and learning.

Still in 2023, the One For One Foundation participated in the historic first-ever Menstrual Equity Summit held in Nanyuki. The two-day event featured a remarkable lineup of industry speakers and advocates, bringing attention to critical issues surrounding menstrual health and education. The Foundation's involvement underscored its commitment to addressing essential social issues and supporting young women.

In March 2024, as part of the release of her hit song "B.A," Femi One and The One For One Foundation mentored The Home Family Kenya. The Foundation facilitated a dance performance by the lovely children, celebrating their talents and creativity.

This initiative highlighted the Foundation's dedication to providing artistic and educational opportunities for underprivileged youth.

Reflecting on these achievements, Femi One stated, "The journey with The One For One Foundation has been incredibly fulfilling. Seeing the positive impact we are making in the lives of young people and our communities inspires me to keep pushing forward. Together, we are building a brighter future."

The One For One Foundation continues to grow, with many more initiatives and events planned for the future. Femi One remains committed to using her platform and resources to create meaningful change and uplift those in need.

Annette Mulama, has been crowned the World Class Kenya Bartender Champion 2024. Annette who works at the Hero Bar at the Trademark Hotel, emerged victorious in the national finals held at the EABL Headquarters, Nairobi.

She emerged victorious after an intense final round against four other finalists and will now represent Kenya at the global finals in Shanghai, China in September.  

“I am overwhelmed with joy and gratitude,” said Annette after receiving her award. This journey has been an incredible two years of hard work and dedication to my craft and to see it culminate in this victory is a dream come true. I am honoured to represent Kenya on the global stage in Shanghai. I hope to not only display my passion and skills but to also inspire other bartenders in the country to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.” 

The World Class Kenya Bartender Competition began in April with 278 participants facing off in online challenges, including the "Johnnie Walker Beyond a Night Cap" challenge.

This was followed by the "Singleton at the Disco" challenge in May, narrowing the field to 18. In June, these top contenders engaged in studio sessions before the Tanqueray Ten live challenge semifinals on July 4^th . Five finalists emerged to compete for the national title on July 5^th in the ‘Don Julio Classics of the Future’ live challenge.  

While announcing the winner Joel Kamau, Commercial Director EABL said, “I would like to congratulate all the participants on their considerable effort to make this competition a success. At EABL, we are all about celebrating Life. Our finalists have not only displayed their amazing skills but have also showed their deep understanding on how to captivate our consumers whose tastes and preferences continue to evolve. “

The World Class Global finals will take place between the 9^th and 13^th of September 2024 in Shanghai, China.  

President William Ruto has finally bowed to pressure from Kenyans and dismissed his entire cabinet, sending home all Cabinet Secretaries and Attorney general.

Addressing the nation on Thursday, Ruto noted that the Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi who is also the Secretary for foreign affairs is the only one who will remain in office.

"Upon reflection and listening keenly to what the people of Kenya have been saying and after holistic appraisal of the performance of my Cabinet and its achievements and challenges,  I have decided to dismiss with immediate effect all cabinet secretaries and attorney general of the Cabinet of Kenya except the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign Affairs," Ruto said.

Adding ""And of course, the office of the Deputy President is not affected in any way."

Ruto said the affairs of the Ministry will be run by Principal Secretaries as he plans to appoint a new cabinet.

"I will immediately engage in extensive consultations across different sectors and political formations and other Kenyans both in public and private with the aim of setting up a broad base government that will assist me in accelerating and expediting the necessary urgent and irreversible implementation the program we have including other radical measures to deal with the burden of debt," Ruto said

For the last few weeks angry Kenyans have been taking to  the streets and social media urging the President to dissolve the cabinet saying it is marred by bad governance and allegations of corruption.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has launched the first edition of the IGAD Statistics Yearbook Facts and Figures.

The book is aimed at helping the IGAD member states in policy formulation and implementation.

Speaking at the report’s launch in Nairobi yesterday, National Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u said accurate, timely, reliable and comparable data is imperative for analytical work that leads to planning, and policy choices, making decision-making more reflective of the situation.

“When we don’t have timely data, it becomes a major setback as you cannot evaluate, predict, and assess where you are coming from,” said Prof Ndung’u.

The CS highlighted the importance of using accurate data in decision making noting that data collection is not an easy expedition.

"When you use data, you can design policies, programmes, projects and interventions that can correct discourse in development, if not done properly, it becomes difficult to recollect your direction,” he said.

On his part IGAD Deputy Executive Secretary Mohamed Abdi Ware emphasized that the IGAD Statistics Yearbook will serve as a reliable regional data source that provides harmonized statistics across member states, enhancing regional integration, economic development, effective planning, and impactful programming.

"As you know, it is through the availability of accurate, reliable, and timely data that we can develop evidence-based policies and national development plans to achieve the prospects of the IGAD Region—a resilient, peaceful, prosperous, and integrated region where citizens enjoy a high quality of life." said Ware.

Adding " To enhance data accessibility and utilization, we have made concerted efforts to ensure the yearbook is accessible to a wide range of users, including policymakers, researchers, and the public. I encourage all stakeholders to utilize this resource for evidence-based decision-making and to inform regional policies and programs."

Ware further urged urged member states to align their priorities on the global stage.

"Looking ahead, we are committed to ensuring the yearbook's sustainability and continuous improvement in future editions. We are working towards operationalizing our Regional Strategy for Development of Statistics, which aims to strengthen statistical capacities in the region. It is essential that we ensure alignment with the AU Continental Strategy on the Harmonization of Statistics in Africa." he noted.

According to a report in the book  Kenya registered a fiscal deficit of 6.3 percent in 2022, trailing South Sudan which recorded the highest deficit at 6.6 percent.

Uganda was ranked third with a budget deficit of 5.3 percent. The fiscal deficit, which represents the gap between a government’s revenue and its expenditure, highlights the ongoing economic challenges faced by the member states.