Sarova Hotels & Resorts Kenya has once again been nominated in this year’s World Luxury Hotel Awards, to battle it out in various categories with the voting process open for both existing and prospective customers.

Sarova Stanley Hotel, Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge, Sarova Mara Game Camp, and Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort & Spa have been nominated in various categories including Luxury Family Hotel, Luxury Game Lodge, Luxury Safari Lodge categories, Luxury Event and Conference hotel, Luxury City Hotel, Luxury Heritage Hotel among others all marrying together the unique products and services that the hotel chain offers.

The World Luxury Hotel Awards, often regarded as the pinnacle of recognition for luxury hotels, serves as a stage where the finest establishments across the globe showcase their unwavering commitment to impeccable service, lavish accommodations, and transformative guest experiences.

“In the realm of luxury, Sarova Hotels has emerged not only as a formidable contender but as an exemplar of what it means to offer unparalleled hospitality within and without Kenya. With our nominations in these diverse categories at the World Luxury Hotel Awards, we proudly flaunt our versatility, unwavering commitment to service excellence, and dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the world of luxury hospitality,” said Caroline Wandetto, Group Marketing Manager.

For years, Sarova Hotels has stood as a testament to unparalleled luxury and a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and hospitality. What sets Sarova Hotels apart is their unwavering commitment to providing guests with an authentically Kenyan experience that transcends the ordinary.

Nestled in some of Kenya's most breathtaking landscapes, each Sarova property is meticulously designed to reflect the local essence, while offering world-class comfort.

From the moment guests arrive, they are enveloped in a captivating ambiance that celebrates Kenya's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Sarova Hotels pride itself on delivering personalized service that caters to the distinct preferences of every guest, ensuring that each stay is a truly memorable and transformative journey.

Whether it's the exceptional wildlife encounters, the delectable fusion of local and international cuisines, or the immersive cultural interactions, the hotel brand redefines luxury by embracing the extraordinary facets of this captivating nation.

“We have a legacy of refreshing African hospitality that we would want all to experience. We are proud of the recognition as we revolutionize your travel needs with bold contemporary design, one-of-a-kind restaurants and bars, sustainable sourcing, and homage to tradition,” added Miss Wandetto.

Mombasa nominated senator Miraj Abdillah has joined a race of UDA's chairperson position where she will battle it out with Nyali MP Mohammed Ali and EALA legislator Hassan Omar.

Miraj said she is capable of uniting UDA members and she will continue with member registration drive to have more members in the county.

Speaking on Saturday after meeting a group of Women at the Wesley Hall, Miraj condemned misunderstanding being propagated by some leaders who are vying for top party's position.

"I am coming as fresh blood to the party to bring sanity and to recruit more members. I want to position UDA party high so as to clinch governor's and other political positions in the county come next General Election," said Ms Miraj

Speaking at the same time former Kisauni Mp Ali Mbogo who was Mike Sonko's running mate in the Mombasa gubernatorial race under Wiper Party in the last elections says he never registered as the party (Wiper) member and he is still a UDA member.

 Mbogo said he has never ditched UDA that's the reason he is supporting Mombasa nominated senator Miraj Abdillah for the party's county chairperson position.

"You can even check in the political parties registry I am UDA member and I never joined any Azimio la Umoja party that is why I am here supporting Senator Miraj to bring sanity to the party," said Mr Mbogo

Ethic Entertainment, a trailblazing Kenyan quartet, has announced the departure of one of its founding members, Rekles.

This marks a significant turning point for the group that has redefined the Kenyan sound and contributed immensely to the global music scene.

From humble beginnings in Umoja Estate, Ethic Entertainment emerged as a beacon of creativity, originality, and dreams realized. Comprising of Swat, Zilla, Seska, and Rekles, the group introduced the world to the unique Gengetone genre with the release of their breakthrough track "Lamba Lolo," created on nothing more than a mobile phone.

Their musical journey was not just a single hit wonder, but a series of hit after hit that birthed the vibrant and unmistakable Kenyan sound we now recognize as gengetone.

Their boundary-pushing approach not only solidified their place on global music charts but also inspired countless aspiring artists.

Rekles, with his unparalleled creativity and hard work, played an instrumental role in Ethic Entertainment's rise.

His contributions to both the group and the broader Kenyan music industry have been monumental and can never be truly quantified.

Ethic Entertainment, known for its inclusive and diverse approach, is poised to continue its journey and legacy despite this transition.

As Ethic Entertainment bids farewell to Rekles, they express their profound gratitude for his indelible impact on the group's journey.

The music they've created together will forever resonate with fans, and Rekles' influence will undoubtedly continue to illuminate and inspire aspiring artists and creatives for years to come.

In the words of the legendary Freddie Mercury, "The show must go on."

A total of 32 teams are expected to feature at this year’s Mombasa Speaker Aharub Khatri Cup football tournament set to be launched on September 9.

According to the Director, Office of the Speaker Aran (Civilizer) Moses the teams will be drawn from all the 30 wards in Mombasa County and two from the Executive office and County Assembly.

“Plans are almost complete for the event and as are you aware the speaker is very passionate about promoting and nurturing local talents. This is not the first time he is doing it" Moses told this blog.

Adding " This is going to be one of the biggest tournaments that you have ever witnessed, trust me on this. The speaker is very keen in ensuring that it succeeds."

The eventual winners of the inaugural competition are set to win lucrative cash prices, courtesy of Speaker Aharub Khatri.

Moses revealed, "We are going to announce the cash prizes in the next two days so just watch out." 

The opening match will be between Changamwe FC vs Miritini fc on September 9 at the Changamwe football grounds.

The tournament will run until December 16 when the finals will be played.

Shanzu FC  won the last tournament bagging ksh 300,000 in cash.

Medigah London Hair, a pioneer in the world of hair and beauty, dazzled attendees with the highly anticipated launch of its revolutionary MLH App.

The prestigious event took place at the exquisite Social House Hotel in Nairobi, drawing a constellation of luminaries from diverse segments of Kenyan society.

The event that was organized by Farida Idris of FIDPR, saw a star-studded guest list including renowned figures like Brian Babu, Milly and Kabi Wajesus, Pinky Ghelani, Pika na Raych, and Fashion Designer Yvonne Odhiambo of Afrostreet collection, alongside music by the enchanting Sanapei Tande and hosted by the captivating Patricia Kihoro.

Co-founders Barbara Medigah and Cedrick Tandong radiated excitement about the MLH App's potential to redefine the landscape of women's fashion.

Notably, they revealed their vision to extend luxury hair grooming to men in the near future.

Barbara Medigah noted "What began as a simple idea between friends has now become a reality. The MLH App stands as a pivotal force in both the Fashion and Tech worlds. Our mission to unite the beauty community, simplify the shopping experience, and elevate product quality is poised to transform the local beauty industry."

Adding "Medigah London Hair is committed to excellence and innovation, symbolizing a transformative journey that will leave an indelible mark on Nairobi's beauty scene and beyond."

The event witnessed the splendid debut of Medigah London Hair's latest product line, epitomized by wigs with unique personas: Mercedes, Nicki, Shensea, Barbie, Chelsea, and Trina.

Each variant stood as a testament to the brand's dedication to individuality and style.

The introduction of brand ambassadors, including TikTok sensation Cindy003, Shakila and Milly Wajesus, underscored the brand's resonance with contemporary influencers.

At the heart of the MLH App's offerings is the HD Lace and Bundle Package, designed to revolutionize the hair shopping experience.

Clients can revel in a seamless journey, procuring a comprehensive package featuring three bundles and a closure of their choice at an all-inclusive fixed price.

A mark of quality, the company's commitment to utilizing 100 percent human hair shines through, with hair types including Brazilian, Peruvian, or Malaysian, and lengths ranging from 12 to 30 inches.Download the MLH App on Android and iOS to embark on a beauty revolution.

Enjoy a complimentary 7-day trial period, plus a lifetime 25% discount on all purchases, as a token of appreciation for joining us on this remarkable journey.

The Mining and Blue economy cabinet secretary Salim Mvurya has announced that phase one of the 1.49 billion Liwatoni fisheries complex will be completed by December.

Speaking in Mombasa during a tour at the facility accompanied by ministry officials, Mvurya said the government is steadfast to promote the blue economy sector in the country.

“This project is designed in a manner that will handle industrial fisheries products. It will provide an entire ecosystem for value addition, it’s a project that has been designed for two phases and phase one will cost sh 1.4 billion shillings, and phase two will be done in partnership with the private sector,” said Mvury.

The complex has previously faced delays in completion but according to Mvurya the delays in the project’s completion timeline were attributed to payment delays faced by contractors undertaking the multi-million project.

“This is a very important project in the blue economy sector because Most of thE fishermen doing fishing in the Indian ocean are artisanal fishermen, and I am happy that 50 percent of the work has been done,” said Mvurya.

Mvurya said once complete it will give direct jobs to about 3000 Kenyans after private fishing companies have shown interest to partner with the government to undertake the fishing.

"This phase we have given the contractor a deadline we expect by the end of December phase one should have completed, “said mvurya adding that some private entities have shown interest in fishing deep into the sea thus creating job opportunities.

Mvurya ruled out that the project had been marred by corruption. Underlining the strategic importance of the Liwatoni Fish Landing project, CS Mvurya emphasized its role in facilitating industrial fishing activities.

Other fish landing sites underway include the Shimoni fish landing site, adding that about 1,000 tons of Tuna fish will be able to be stored by the facility at a go.

He added that more direct jobs are underway.

Its good tidings all the way for Gospel singer Janet Otieno this year as she has bagged a nomination in the inaugural Trace Awards.

The nominees were announced on Monday 21st August 2023. She is the ONLY Female Gospel artiste in AFRICA to be nominated in the awards.

She is the only Kenyan Gospel artiste to be nominated in the awards Focusing a global spotlight on musicians, creators, entrepreneurs and achievers from across Africa and the African diaspora, the Trace Awards and Festival will take place in Kigali, Rwanda from Friday 20 to Saturday 21 October 2023, in partnership with Visit Rwanda and QA Venue Solutions Rwanda, the venue management company of BK Arena.

Below is the category in which she is nomintaed:

 Best Gospel Artist

Benjamin Dube (South Africa)  

Janet Otieno (Kenya)

 KS Bloom (Ivory Coast)  

Levixone (Uganda) l

Moses Bliss (Nigeria)

 Word From Janet Otieno about her nomination: "My heart is full of gratitude for the honor of being nominated in the inaugural Trace Awards. The recognition means more to me than words can express, and I wanted to take a moment to extend my sincere thanks to Trace TV. As a gospel artiste, my mission is grounded in sharing the message of hope, love, and salvation through my music. While awards are not the focus of my journey, I am truly appreciative of this gesture. It signifies not only a personal achievement but also an opportunity to reach more hearts with the good news that I am so passionate about."

Docked gently at the Mombasa Port’s Mbaraki wharf, the World’s largest floating library-Logos Hope on Wednesday officially opened her doors ready to dispense knowledge to members of the public who finally got a chance to marvel and sample contents of the globally celebrated book fair.

Aboard the vessel at Mbaraki wharf, a sprawling depth of timeless knowledge spreads across and wide, awaiting the boarding book lovers.  It's light, airy and a delight to visit.

Under well lit Logos Hope’s sealing, the wide array of genres wrapped in glossy and eye-catching book cover designs can whet any bonafide reader’s appetite and leave them spoilt for choice.

The choice is vast. It ranges from science, sports, hobbies, language, faith, cookery arts, medicine, leadership and more besides.

Tourism Cabinet Secretary Peninah Malonza described Logos Hope as a floating repository of knowledge, help, and hope and at the same time hailed its  theme "Knowledge, Help, and Hope," as a mirror to Kenya's aspirations on the global stage.

“The book fair on this vessel is a living testament to the universal language of literature. And uniquely for us, these floating shelves offer our community over 5,000 titles—ranging from science to arts, all at affordable prices. Beyond books, the ship's amphitheater will host enlightening talks aimed at enriching maritime careers,” Malonza said during the vessel's call at the Port.

While acknowledging the impact of the Ship’s arrival to tourism, she took the opportunity to welcome the 375 passengers and crew from over 70 countries “to the wonder that is Magical Kenya.”

“The increasing arrival of cruise ships like MV Logos Hope showcases Kenya's magnetic appeal. Our land boasts a diverse tableau of experiences—wildlife safaris, water sports, cultural richness, and tranquil beaches. These unique offerings have already led to return visits, like last year's encore from the MV World Odyssey, signaling our rising status as a prime tourist hub,” the CS said: “The global impact of the cruise industry is awe-inspiring. Before the pandemic, it generated over $154 billion and catered to nearly 30 million passengers. Today's cruise-goers are digitally savvy, and we're ready to meet them. The inauguration of Mombasa's cruise terminal is our bold step into this lucrative market.”

Malonza noted that the Ministry of Tourism is actively collaborating with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Transport, to maximize the benefits of our coastal assets.

Speaking on board the vessel, Mombasa governor Abdulswamad Nassir reiterated his call to the national government to provide a visa-free offer to all visiting crew ships to give a chance to visitors and tourists to enjoy their stay at the coast of Kenya and encourage more such visits.

The governor also assured that most of the books on board Logos Hope will be bought and reserved in some schools to benefit students in the port County of Mombasa.

 According to Kenya Port Authority (KPA) Managing Director Captain Willam Ruto for the next 45 days, members of the public will be treated to the fun of touring the expansive vessel to explore other amenities like the international café, visitors deck, welcome area among others.

At the same time, he said the 370 crew members on board the vessel drawn from 70 nationalities, will have an opportunity to disembark and visit our city to sample the rich Swahili culture, and the cultural diversity of Kenya.

“They will visit some of the best sun and sand beaches in the world and interesting historical attractions like the Fort Jesus built in the 16th Century by the Portuguese. I am positive that the visitors will have a great time in Mombasa,” assured Captain Ruto.

He said Kenya is known world over as a giant in the tourism industry, and one of the best cruise tourist destinations and therefore, tourism facilities should be commensurate “with the world-class service standards we have always had.”

“This is why Kenya Ports Authority in its capacity expansion strategy developed a modern cruise terminal at the Port of Mombasa to support tourism. The state-of-the -art cruise terminal is built to modern standards complete with various amenities including duty free shops, restaurants, conference facilities, passenger baggage areas, and offices for key stakeholders in the industry.

The KPA boss noted the modern Cruise Terminal has significantly boosted Kenya’s capacity and competitiveness for cruise tourism in the continent.

“In the recent cruise tourism circuit season that ended in April this year, the Port of Mombasa received four vessel calls carrying over 4000 passengers.The famous Cruise Liner World Odyssey, also known as semester at sea operates the World’s floating campus, was among the cruise liners that docked at the Port of Mombasa,”  Ruto stated.

Docked gently at the Mombasa Port’s Mbaraki wharf, the World’s largest floating library-Logos Hope on Wednesday officially opened her doors ready to dispense knowledge to members of the public who finally got a chance to marvel and sample contents of the globally celebrated book fair.

Aboard the vessel at Mbaraki wharf, a sprawling depth of timeless knowledge spreads across and wide, awaiting the boarding book lovers.  It's light, airy and a delight to visit.

Under well lit Logos Hope’s sealing, the wide array of genres wrapped in glossy and eye-catching book cover designs can whet any bonafide reader’s appetite and leave them spoilt for choice.

The choice is vast. It ranges from science, sports, hobbies, language, faith, cookery arts, medicine, leadership and more besides.

Tourism Cabinet Secretary Peninah Malonza described Logos Hope as a floating repository of knowledge, help, and hope and at the same time hailed its  theme "Knowledge, Help, and Hope," as a mirror to Kenya's aspirations on the global stage.

“The book fair on this vessel is a living testament to the universal language of literature. And uniquely for us, these floating shelves offer our community over 5,000 titles—ranging from science to arts, all at affordable prices. Beyond books, the ship's amphitheater will host enlightening talks aimed at enriching maritime careers,” Malonza said during the vessel's call at the Port.

While acknowledging the impact of the Ship’s arrival to tourism, she took the opportunity to welcome the 375 passengers and crew from over 70 countries “to the wonder that is Magical Kenya.”

“The increasing arrival of cruise ships like MV Logos Hope showcases Kenya's magnetic appeal. Our land boasts a diverse tableau of experiences—wildlife safaris, water sports, cultural richness, and tranquil beaches. These unique offerings have already led to return visits, like last year's encore from the MV World Odyssey, signaling our rising status as a prime tourist hub,” the CS said: “The global impact of the cruise industry is awe-inspiring. Before the pandemic, it generated over $154 billion and catered to nearly 30 million passengers. Today's cruise-goers are digitally savvy, and we're ready to meet them. The inauguration of Mombasa's cruise terminal is our bold step into this lucrative market.”

Malonza noted that the Ministry of Tourism is actively collaborating with various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Transport, to maximize the benefits of our coastal assets.

Speaking on board the vessel, Mombasa governor Abdulswamad Nassir reiterated his call to the national government to provide a visa-free offer to all visiting crew ships to give a chance to visitors and tourists to enjoy their stay at the coast of Kenya and encourage more such visits.

The governor also assured that most of the books on board Logos Hope will be bought and reserved in some schools to benefit students in the port County of Mombasa.

 According to Kenya Port Authority (KPA) Managing Director Captain Willam Ruto for the next 45 days, members of the public will be treated to the fun of touring the expansive vessel to explore other amenities like the international café, visitors deck, welcome area among others.

At the same time, he said the 370 crew members on board the vessel drawn from 70 nationalities, will have an opportunity to disembark and visit our city to sample the rich Swahili culture, and the cultural diversity of Kenya.

“They will visit some of the best sun and sand beaches in the world and interesting historical attractions like the Fort Jesus built in the 16th Century by the Portuguese. I am positive that the visitors will have a great time in Mombasa,” assured Captain Ruto.

He said Kenya is known world over as a giant in the tourism industry, and one of the best cruise tourist destinations and therefore, tourism facilities should be commensurate “with the world-class service standards we have always had.”

“This is why Kenya Ports Authority in its capacity expansion strategy developed a modern cruise terminal at the Port of Mombasa to support tourism. The state-of-the -art cruise terminal is built to modern standards complete with various amenities including duty free shops, restaurants, conference facilities, passenger baggage areas, and offices for key stakeholders in the industry.

The KPA boss noted the modern Cruise Terminal has significantly boosted Kenya’s capacity and competitiveness for cruise tourism in the continent.

“In the recent cruise tourism circuit season that ended in April this year, the Port of Mombasa received four vessel calls carrying over 4000 passengers.The famous Cruise Liner World Odyssey, also known as semester at sea operates the World’s floating campus, was among the cruise liners that docked at the Port of Mombasa,”  Ruto stated.

A Danish investment and development delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Denmark Lars Løkke Rasmussen has today held a consultative meeting with Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir, and other top county leaders in efforts to identify potential areas of investment and development partnerships.

The talks held at the Governor's office centered around possible areas of partnership and collaboration in Maritime Affairs given the strategic global positioning that Denmark enjoys in the sector.

During the meeting which was also attended by the  Danish Ambassador to Kenya  Ole Thonke, Governor Nassir made an impassioned case for private public partnership to establish modern water transport networks to ease traffic congestion in Mombasa.

“Mombasa is ready to step into the modern age as the primary logistics hub for the Horn of Africa. Mass urban transport will be key to facilitating economic growth. This is why Mombasa has advertised for an expression of interest to implement modern water transport through PPP,” said Nassir.

Denmark boasts of several popular modern domestic ferry routes to connect the various Islands.

The leaders also took time to review the progress of the devolved government since the promulgation of the 2010 Constitution.

Rasmussen on his part stated that Denmark shall remain a dependable economic partner and ally to Kenya and by extension, Mombasa.

The Foreign affairs Minister who has previously served as a Mayor and a Prime Minister noted that the partnerships between both nations will continue even as they navigate the emerging challenges of the present day.