The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has today (Tuesday) officially inaugurated the special Task Force tasked with preparing media guidelines related to the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), data and social networks.

Speaking during the Launch of the Task force, Media Council of Kenya CEO David Omwoyo says the numerous opportunities that have come with AI pose major threats to journalistic ethics that need to be checked.

"AI is offering several opportunities in the media sector, but we need to put in place ethical guidelines that will help govern its use in Kenya, especially for the media industry”, he said.

He added there is a need to develop broader and general guidelines on the usage of AI and data.

“These guidelines will play a crucial role in shaping future regulatory initiatives undertaken by regulators”, he said.

Mr Omwoyo indicated that the committee has a time frame of 90 days to establish a framework, which will subsequently be presented to media stakeholders for strategic participation.

MCK Director for Media Training and Development Victor Bwire noted that this is a multi-agency intervention looking at broad policy thinking that will assist media houses to work around matters AI and data protection.

 “I call upon this taskforce to work diligently towards achieving its goal within the shortest time", he said.

Media Owners Association (MOA) Chairperson Agnes Kalekye said the committee marks a crucial advancement towards ethical and responsible use of AI technologies.

“MOA recognises the power of AI and data usage. It is essential to address the challenges and opportunities that emerge from the use of AI”, she said.

Communications Authority (CA) Ag. Director General Christopher Wambua further stated that there is a need to create an environment where these technologies can be nurtured and used for the good of the country.

“Our priority should be the development of guidelines that are in line with the demands of the market. AI can be utilised to optimise the quality of the media and accelerate innovations”, note Mr Wambua.

He said we have a duty to ensure that we support and embrace new services that emerge from these opportunities.

Office of the Data Protection Commissioner (ODPC) Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait added that this is an opportunity to have a conversation and find a framework that is inclusive without killing dreams of those utilising AI.

“It is important to come up with general guidelines that allow people to thrive”, she stressed.

Members of the task force include Silas Kiragu, Margaret Kalekye, Sara Mumbua Nzuki, Michael Michie, Prof. John Walubengo, Susan Mute, Ellen Wanjiru, Carole Kimutai, Francis Muriithi, Michael Oriedo, Dr. Gilbert Mugeni, Rosemary Mwangi, Demus Kiprono, Oliver Mathenge, Antony Laibuta and Eric Munene 

In a groundbreaking collaboration, three of Kenya's top music sensations under the banner of Kaka Empire - Femi One, King Kaka, and Jadi - have unveiled the official music video for their chart-topping hit "Kafeeling."

The release marks a pivotal moment in the East African music scene, where the trio’s distinct artistry and combined fan base promise to create waves across the continent and beyond.

About "Kafeeling":

"Kafeeling" is a fusion of reggae and raw emotion, giving listeners an authentic taste of Kenya's urban music culture.

The song, which explores themes of love, resilience, and ambition, seamlessly integrates the trio's unique styles and lyrical prowess. With a catchy chorus and beats that promise to light up the dance floor, "Kafeeling" is set to be a timeless anthem.

The Visual Spectacle:

Directed by Jijo Drums, the "Kafeeling" music video is a cinematic experience. The video paints a vivid picture of the artistes synergy and good vibes.. It’s more than just a music video – it’s a testament to the artists' roots. 

Artist Statements:

Femi One: "Working with King Kaka and Jadi was so much fun. 'Kafeeling' is a piece of our souls, and we are ecstatic to share it with our fans."

King Kaka: "This collaboration is a celebration of Kenyan music. We’ve poured our hearts into 'Kafeeling,' and we hope it resonates with listeners everywhere."

Jadi: "Being part of 'Kafeeling' has been an unforgettable journey. From brainstorming to production, every moment was magic. We hope the world enjoys it as much as we did creating it."

Kenya is set to host the first Regional Cabotage Conference in November as the country pushes for the formation of the East African cabotage in the maritime sector.

The Cabinet Secretary in the ministry of Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs Salim Mvurya said  the government is working towards formulating a cabotage policy that will regulate the industry.

This he said will enable shipping business to be available and accessible to local and regional businessmen as well as international shipping lines to venture into the shipping business.

“The conference will be an opportunity for Kenyan to take leadership in maritime affairs and enable local and regional businessmen to take on the shipping business,” said Mvurya.

Adding " November will be a very special month for Kenya since we will also be launching our bid for re-election in Category ‘c’ of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council for the 2024-25 biennium.

The CS revealed that Mombasa county government has agreed to co-sponsor the conference.

 On his part Mombasa governor Abdulswamad Nassir noted "This is something that is long overdue and as the Mombasa county government we are very pleased to be part of the conference."

Mvurya was speaking in Mombasa at the new KMA headquarters after holding a meeting with all the leaders of state corporations under the state department of Shipping and Maritime.

He said that there were a number of issues stakeholders were raising including local participation and that the conference will provide a platform to address the issues.

The meeting he said was also to welcome the new PS state department of maritime and shipping affairs Geofrrey Kautuko who takes over from Shadrack Mwadime.

Mvurya said that they government has prioritized and approved the Kenya Shipping Line to be the clearing agency for all government cargo.

“This was also part of the inauguration of the new PS to ensure they work closely with Kenya shipping line to be able to be government’s clearing agency,” he said.

Also discussed in the meeting was the Bandari Maritime Academy Sh19.8 billion master plan which Mvurya said will be implemented in phases.

Phase 1 he said will cost Sh2.4 billion with priority given to the setting up of a survival center at a cost of Sh1.4 billion.

The government he said had so far approved the release os Sh500 million to start the project in this financial year.

“The center will be key for our seafarers and all trainees from the academy to enable them to effectively participate in shipping and also secure jobs in the sector,” Mvurya said.

The CS added that they also reviewed the presidential directive of training coxswains that is expected to be completed in December.

So far, they had done training 300 coxswains in Lamu with 200 expected to receive their certificates in November.

He said that the recruitment of seafarers was ongoing as he directed the Bandari Maritime Academy management to relook at their charges to be affordable to the region’s youth.

“We are also mobilizing governors and MPs from the region to help facilitate the training of our youths in the region. We are also engaging international shipping lines to help secure job opportunities for them,” he said.

Mvurya at the same time added that plans were underway to establish a comprehensive regional rescue center that will coordinate search and rescue operations at the new KMA facility to guard the marine waters.

He said that another center will be set up to watch over the lakes revealing that plans were underway to establish a similar center in Kisumu.

Elected leaders from Kilifi County have resolved to put aside their political differences and work in unity for the betterment of their electorates

The first unity meeting was convened on Sunday at the official Governor’ residence in Kilifi town between the County leadership led by Governor Gideon Mung’aro, his deputy Florah Chibule and Kilifi County Assembly Speaker Teddy Mwambire and national level leaders led by Senator Stewards Madzayo and MPs from the seven constituencies in the area.

Kilifi Women Representative Getrude Mbeyu who has been at loggerheads with Mr Mung’aro did not turn up for the meeting but she sent apologies.

Members of national assembly present included Kilifi North’s Owen Baya, Kilifi South’s Ken Chonga, Kaloleni MP Paul Katana, Magarini MP Harrison Kombe, his Ganze counterpart Kenneth Kazungu, Malindi MP Amina Mnyazi and Rabai’s Kenga Mupe.

Governor Mung’aro, an Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) elected governor said that the meeting was a follow up of a near similar one held in Nairobi for all coastal leaders that was chaired by Senate Speaker Amason Kingi and former Mombasa Governor Hassan Ali Joho that deliberated on various development issues especially matters to do with the ports of Mombasa, Lamu and Shimoni that are allegedly on the verge of privatization by President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration.

He added that the leaders want to consolidate and map out development projects that they want to be carried out within the county so that they can present them during the next Coastal leaders meeting scheduled for next month in Lamu county.

“We want to have constant consultation so that we do away with duplication of roles for prudent resource utilization. An example is the bursaries where we have an issue of double allocation in a way that a single student gets bursaries from all leadership roles hence disadvantage others,” he said.

Mr Mung’aro said the various counties in the coastal region had their own diverse issues and there was need for each county to have a plan when they meet at the coastal level before forging forward to the national level.

“Yes, we met as leaders from the Coast region drawn from all political parties recently but in the next meeting we want to go there as a Kilifi team with our own unique issues, we might be from the coast region but each county has its own issues,” he added.

Kilifi North MP Owen Baya lauded that governor for convening the meeting saying that it was long overdue and that such meetings should be held frequently to sore unity.

“We thank the governor for calling us without looking at our political affiliation and we have discussed matters of Kilifi. The meeting was successful and if we unite then we shall prosper. So watch this space Kilifi will be better than before under the leadership of Governor Gideon Mung’aro,” said Mr Baya who is also the deputy majority leader in the National Assembly.

Of the seven constituencies in the County, only three MPs were elected on a Kenya Kwanza allied parties and they include Mr Baya who was elected on a United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party while Ganze MP Kenneth Kazungu and his Rabai Counterpart were elected on a Pamoja African Alliance (PAA) party ticket.

Governor Mung’aro, Senator Madzayo, Mrs Mnyazi, Mrs Mbeyu, Mr Katana, Mr Chonga and Mr Kombe were all elected on an ODM ticket together with a majority of MCAs.

Undoubtedly one of East Africa’s most revered hip-hop artists, King Kaka, has officially unveiled his much-anticipated Extended Play (EP) titled "Rhymebook ya nutcase" on 22nd October.

This comes as exciting news to hip-hop enthusiasts and King Kaka fans across the continent and the global diaspora.

The "Rhymebook ya nutcase" EP showcases King Kaka’s unparalleled lyrical prowess and commitment to pushing the boundaries of East African hip-hop.

With tracks that span from introspective musings to hard-hitting anthems, the new EP promises to be a timeless addition to King Kaka's already impressive discography.

The rapper marked the milestone with an exclusive listening party at the Snowball Studios on October 19th. During the party King Kaka offered a glimpse into his new EP, he opened the door to his creative process, sharing insights, inspirations, and stories behind his songs.

Attendees had the privilege of not only witnessing but also participating in the creative journey, forging a connection that went beyond the typical artist-fan relationship.

“Rhymebook Ya Nutcase” features a remarkable lineup of artists like Prezzo, Masauti, Pascal Tokodi, Halisi the Band, Ruguru, and Jadi, and is set to excite music enthusiasts.

“With 'Rhymebook ya nutcase', I wanted to delve deeper into stories that resonate with my fans, and at the same time, challenge myself creatively,” shared King Kaka. "This EP is a reflection of my journey, my thoughts, and the vibrant energy of Nairobi's streets."

Early reviews from music critics hint at "Rhymebook ya nutcase" being a contender for East African EP of the year, citing its impeccable production quality, lyrical depth, and the sheer magnetism of King Kaka’s performance.

Davido took home the prizes for Best Male, and shared Best Collaboration with South Africa’s Musa Keys for “Unavailable”. Rema scored in the Global African Artist, and Song of the Year categories, with “Calm Down”.  “Love Damini” by Burna Boy scored the prize for Best Album and Vivian Chidid received the plaudits for Best Female.

The Best Artist - East Africa was won by Diamond Platnumz, while Rwandan local hero Bruce Melodie triumphed in the Best Rwandan Artist category.

Didi B took home the silverware for Ivory Coast as Best Artist Africa - Francophone, while his fellow countrymen KS Bloom and Tam Sir scored in the Best Gospel Artist, and Best Producer categories, respectively.

Lisandro Cuxi was named Best Artist Africa - Lusophone.

Recognising his long and storied music career, Nigeria’s 2Face took home the prize for Lifetime Achievement.

Rutshelle Guillance was named as Best Artist - Caribbean, while Goulam triumphed as Best Artist - Indian Ocean, and Dystinct won Best Artist - North Africa. Yemi Alade’s hit “Baddie” took home the prize for Best Video.

Music maker and entrepreneur, Mr Eazi, took home a special ChangeMarker award for his philanthropic work.

Looking further north, British rapper Central Cee triumphed as Best Artist - UK, while Tayc took home the trophy for Best Artist - France & Belgium.  Ludmilla was awarded the trophy for Best Artist - Brazil, and Michael Brun from Haitia was named Best DJi.  

Competing in 26 award categories were Africa and Afro-inspired artists from more than thirty countries in Africa, South America, the Caribbean, the Indian Ocean and Europe. For a full list of the winners of the Trace Awards please click here.

Olivier Laouchez, Chairman and Co-Founder of Trace, commented, “Tonight has been a triumphant demonstration of the power and creativity of African and African-origin artists.  All the nominees and performers at the Trace Awards underlined exactly why African contemporary music has become a global phenomenon. We congratulate all the nominees, winners and performers for their achievements and for demonstrating their talent, imagination and creativity to a global audience.”

On the night, the BK Arena throbbed to contemporary rhythms and vibes from across Africa and the African diaspora. Highlights of the main show including collaborations between artists of different nationalities and music genres.

Fronted by Afrobeat legend D’Banj and Angolan supermodel Maria Borges, the Trace Awards featured performances and collaborations from 50+ stars, melding Afrobeat with Bongo Flava, Coupé Decalé,  Soukouss, Rap, Rai, Gospel and more.  Performers included Diamond Platnumz, (Tanzania), Davido (Nigeria), Bamby (French Guiana), Benjamin Dube (South Africa), Blxckie (South Africa), Bruce Melodie (Rwanda), Bwiza (Rwanda), Didi B (Ivory Coast), Dystinct (Morocco), Janet Otieno (Kenya), Josey (Ivory Coast), Lisandro Cuxi (Cape Verde), Locko (Cameroon), Perola (Angola), Plutonio (Mozambique), Princess Lover (Martinique), Ronisia (France), Rutshelle Guillaume (Haïti), Soraia Ramos (Cape Verde), Terrell Elymoor (Mayotte), The Compozers (Ghana), Viviane Chidid (Senegal), Yemi Alade (Nigeria), Mr Eazi (Nigeria), Azawi (Uganda), BNXN (Nigeria), Camidoh (Ghana), Chriss Eazy (Rwanda), Danni Gatto (Cape Verde), DJ Illans (Reunion), Donovan BTS (Mauritius), Emma’a (Gabon), Gaei (Madagascar), Gerilson Insrael (Angola), Goulam (The Comores), Kader Japonais (Algeria), Krys M (Cameroon), K.O (South Africa), KS Bloom (Ivory Coast), Levixone (Uganda), Mik’l (Réunion), Moses Bliss (Nigeria), Musa Keys (South Africa), Nadia Mukami (Kenya), Segael (Réunion), Jux (Tanzania) and Zuchu (Tanzania).

Global music powerhouse and Afro-music tastemaker, Trace staged the first ever Trace Awards to mark its 20th anniversary, and celebrate the creativity, talent and influence of African and Afro-inspired music and artists. The Awards showcased the excellence and diversity of Afro-centric music in genres such as Afrobeat, Dancehall, Hip Hop, Afro-pop, Mbalax, Amapiano, Zouk, Kizomba, Genge, Coupé Décalé, Bongo Flava, Soukous, Gospel, Rap, Rai, Kompa, R&B, and Rumba.

Targeted at lovers of African and Afro-inspired music and culture, the Trace Awards broadcasted live on 21 October 2023 on Trace TV channels, radio and digital channels and on global streaming platforms, national terrestrial TV and satellite channels. A 90 minutes highlights show will air on Trace channels and partner TV stations and platforms from 28 October.  The Trace Awards is presented by Visit Rwanda and Martell.

The Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC)has set plans to enhance digital transformation in it’s radio stations.

According to KBC ICT project management lead Silas Kiragu a pilot project on digitalization of sales revenue collection has already been completed at Pwani Fm.

“What we are aiming to achieve is to ensure that there is accountability and efficiency in automating booking of sales, scheduling in the daily programming of our various radio stations, for the purpose of reconciling and billing to our clients.” said Kiragu.

Adding “At a click of a button we will be able to see how much the radio stations have sold in terms of advertisement in a day, week, month or year. We have already installed this new system at Pwani fm and we believe this system will bring changes to the corporation in terms of enhancing revenue collection”.

Kiragu who was recently selected to the Media Council of Kenya technical working committee on development of media guidelines on the use of artificial intelligence revealed that the other stations that will also benefit from the new system are Iftin fm, Ngemi fm, Mwago fm, Kitwek fm and the Eastern services (Rendile, Burji, Turkana and Samburu).

On his part the Chief Data Base Administrator Timothy Toroitoch noted “The government gave a directive that services should be digitalized by December and it is where we are heading to. Our services including commercial sales, signet, co-siting, studio mashinani will be available on E- Citizen”

Mombasa residents residing in flood-prone areas have been advised to vacate as early as possible before the onset of El Nino rains.

Speaking to the press at the Governor's office on Thursday afternoon, Mombasa County Secretary Jeizan Faruk urged the residents to cooperate to avoid tragedies resulting from floods.

Faruk revealed that the county has already set up an emergency centre at the Inspectorate headquarters in Tudor and toll free lines to report any incidents.

"Our humble appeal to the residents living in the usual flood prone areas is to please vacate the areas and find safer places, this is for your own good. we do not have to deal with emergencies such as saving lives or even tragedies of losing lives." said Faruk.

Faruk said the county government has already identified the high risk areas and is in the process of coming up with mitigation measures.

Faruk charged "We are working round to the clock to ensure that our county does not experience any disaster or caught off-guard."

The Meteorological Department had announced that the country will receive El Nino from October to December 2023, urging the public to prepare adequately. 

Speaking at the same time the County Transport Executive Member Dan Manyala said they have already started unclogging drainage systems especially in the mainland in preparation for the rains.

"If you go areas like Railways and Mainland we have already unclogged the drainage systems and we are still in the process of unclogging the other drainage systems in different areas of the county" said Manayala.

The Kenya National Muslims Advisory Council (KEMNAC) has condemned the Monday Israeli airstrike on the Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in Gaza which killed hundreds and injured many others.

Addressing members of the press in Mombasa, KEMNAC Chairman Juma Ngao called for the protection of civilians accussing Israel of 'war crime'.

Ngao also called on the international community to join efforts to stop the violence as soon as possible, respect international humanitarian law, and work to de-escalate the situation.

"This is a place where people were going to seek refuge and medical care, why would someone think of attacking such a place. This is insane," said Ngao.

Adding " Majority of these people who are being killed are Children, Women and the elderly, people who cannot even defend themselves."

The majority of victims in the hospital were displaced individuals seeking shelter from Israeli aggression in the Al-Ahli Arab Hospital in central Gaza after the Israeli military destroyed their homes, the Palestinian News Agency (WAFA) reported.

Ngao challenged the United Nations and the International Criminal Court (ICC) to act on those behind the attacks and deaths of civilians in Gaza.

Ngao argued "If indeed UN is truly after law and order then this is the right time that they should prove to us that is their main agenda. Where is ICC? we expect them by now to have issued warrant of arrests against those leaders and individuals who are behind all these killings, the likes of Israel Prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his defence minister."

Ngao called for a ceasefire from both Israel and Hamas.

"This is now too much. We have in the past few days witness what it means not having peace. Let all this madness come to an end. Both sides should now stop the war."

He further blamed other Muslim countries of 'neglecting' Palestine during this time.

"Where are the leaders of other Muslim countries? Why are they not saying anything. Let them come out and stand with their own" noted Nago.

The Palestinian death toll has reached around 3,000 since Israel began its intense attacks on Gaza on October 7.

Former Mombasa county Transport executive member  (CECM) has joined the list of candidates gunning for the Football Kenya Federation President post.

Balala who is also the patron of Mvita Young Stars Football Club says he has the solution to problems currently facing football in the country.

Speaking to Ommy Dallah, Balala pointed out the lack of investment in the football fan base as the major factor hindering the development of football in the country.

"The major problem facing us is that we do not invest in the people who are the main factor in football and that is the fans. Football is one of the major investments in the world and this is made possible by having a good fan base" said Balala.

Adding " You cannot have a strong national team without a strong fan base. I believe I have the solution to all the problems facing football in our country".

Balala said he believes his ideas on how to improve football in the country are different from the other candidates who have shown interest in the seat.

"All those who have now shown interest in the position have been there before, which other new ideas will they bring when they get into that office? posed Balala.

Incumbent Nick Mwendwa will not be defending his seat after serving the mandatory two, four years term.

Other candidates who have shown interest in the post are Gor Mahia Secretary General Samuel Ochola,  ex- FKF chief Sam Nyamweya, Hussein Mohammed and US-based Sammy ‘Kempes’ Owino who is also a former Kenya international,

Nyamweya was at the helm of the federation for over 20 years before Nick Mwendwa took over the stage.

The election is set for February 2024.