Ommy Dallah
Greenpeace Africa Welcomes Kenya's Ban on Plastic Garbage Bags, Calls for Clarity and Strengthened Infrastructure.
Greenpeace Africa has welcomed the directive issued by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) regarding the use of biodegradable garbage bags for organic waste.
Greenpeace Africa's Plastics Campaigner Gerance Mutwol.said, "While we applaud the Government of Kenya for its decisive actions, beginning with the 2017 ban on plastic carrier bags and now with the mandatory use of biodegradable garbage bags alternatives for organic waste collection, we call for greater ambition in moving towards a zero-waste and plastic-free future."
Adding "Kenya should prioritise reusable models and ensure that any biodegradable alternatives are safe and genuinely contribute to a circular economy and continue to be a continental leader in combating the plastic crisis”.
Gerance insisted that biodegradable alternatives were a temporary step and advocated a stronger emphasis on investing in reusable collection systems. He also sought clarity on the composition of the replacement garbage bags so ordered.
"It is crucial that we scrutinise these 'biodegradable' materials. The term 'biodegradable' often encompasses a broad range of materials with varying environmental impacts. As such, we urge the government to provide detailed information regarding the composition and biodegradability of these bags to ensure they genuinely minimise environmental impact," he said.
NEMA's announcement comes as world leaders meet in Ottawa, Canada, from 23 to 29 April 2024 for the fourth round of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC4) to draft a binding plastics treaty. Greenpeace Africa calls for a treaty that prioritises reducing plastics production and embraces solutions like refill and reuse systems to minimise the use and production of single-use plastics.
In a notice dated April 8, Nema said Kenyans have 90 days to stop using plastic bags from the date of the notice.
"For the foregoing therefore and to ensure environmentally sound management of the organic waste fraction, the Authority directs that within 90 days from the date of this notice:
"The use of conventional plastic bags/bin liners for collection of organic waste shall thus cease forthwith," the notice reads.
The Authority has directed all garbage to be carried in biodegradable garbage bags.
It has also directed all county governments and private waste service providers licensed by Nema to provide their clients with 100% biodegradable bags.
The directive is in line with Section 12 of the Sustainable Waste Management Act, 2022.
Samsung Electronics Continues to Lead Global Digital Signage Market for 15th Consecutive Year
Samsung Electronics, a pioneer in cutting-edge display technology, has again secured its position as the number one global signage manufacturer. For an impressive fifteenth consecutive year, market research firm Omdia has recognised Samsung for its unwavering leadership in the dynamic field of digital signage.
Samsung Electronics made a significant impact on the global signage industry in 2023 by capturing 33% of the market share. The company broke its record by selling over 2 million units, highlighting Samsung's dedication to innovation, flexibility, and customer-focused solutions.
“Achieving first place in the global display signage market for 15 consecutive years reflects our commitment to innovation and our ability to adapt to evolving market conditions and the needs of our customers. We will continue to provide the highest value by offering specialised devices, solutions, and services”, said Sam Odhiambo, Head of Department, Consumer Electronics, Samsung Electronics East Africa Ltd.
The global display signage industry is expected to grow 8% annually, with a projected market size of $24.6 billion (KES 3.198 trillion) by 2027, up from $14 billion (KES 1.813 trillion) in 2020.
While Kenya is yet to fully embrace 3D high-quality screens like The Wall All-in-One and The Wall for Virtual Production at Atlantis, The Royal in Dubai and Hilton Waikiki Beach in Hawaii, the potential for growth in the digital advertising sector is immense.
With its vibrant economy and burgeoning tech scene, Kenya stands poised to capitalise on this trend.
Quality screens play a pivotal role in driving revenue through effective digital advertising. In Kenya, businesses that invest in high-quality signage can expect substantial returns. The ability to capture attention, convey brand messages, and engage audiences directly impacts sales and brand visibility.
Continuous research and development has marked Samsung’s journey in developing cutting-edge signage screens. Key milestones include:
- The Wall: The world’s first modular display with micro LED technology, allowing customisation of size, ratio, and shape based on preference and use case.
- Smart Signage: Ultra-slim profiles and uniform bezel design for immersive experiences.
- Outdoor Signage: Tailored for sports, landmarks, and electric vehicle charging stations, designed for clear visibility in any weather.
- Samsung Interactive Display: Optimized for education, empowering educators and students with interactive tools.
Samsung’s recent introduction of the Samsung Visual eXperience Transformation (VXT) platform further demonstrates our dedication to display innovation. Industry experts have hailed Samsung’s transparent Micro LED display as the next generation of commercial display, earning accolades such as “Most Mind-Blowing LED” and “Best Transparent Display” from North American AV news outlet rAVe.
As Kenya looks to the future of digital advertising, Samsung remains at the forefront, driving excellence and shaping the landscape of visual communication. The journey continues, and Samsung’s commitment to quality screens ensures that it remains the preferred choice for businesses seeking impactful digital signage solutions.
General Francis Ogolla buried at his home in Siaya
President William Ruto Sunday led the country in giving the late Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Francis Ogolla a befitting send-off.
General Ogolla was laid to rest at his Alego home in Siaya County in a colourful ceremony complete with a 19-gun salute.
President Ruto said the country had lost a great military leader who served his country with passion and unwavering commitment.
He described General Ogolla as a consummate military officer, a passionate commander and a patriot of great humility and integrity.
“Many people do not understand the loss that we have incurred as a country. There are very few leaders who can fit in the categorisation and shoes of General Ogolla,” he said.
Speaking during General Ogolla's burial service at Obama K’Ogello Primary School, President Ruto said he was proud to have appointed and worked with the fallen CDF.
“He loved this country and wanted the best for Kenya and would stop at nothing to make sure that Kenya was safe,” he said.
Present were First Lady Rachel Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, governors, Cabinet Secretaries and MPs, among others
The President assured the country of thorough investigation on the cause of the accident that claimed General Ogolla's and the lives of nine other Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officers.
“I want to assure the country that KDF and the Kenya Air Force have the requisite integrity and professionalism to make sure that there will be no shroud of doubt on what happened to General Ogolla,” he said.
The President said the days of extrajudicial killings and political assassinations are long gone.
“There shall never be extrajudicial killings or political assassinations. It will never happen again that bodies float in River Yala. Not under my watch,” he said.
President Ruto also said tribalism and ethnicity will no longer drive the politics and governance of the country. He said every Kenyan will have an opportunity to serve the nation on account of merit as opposed to tribalism and political affiliation.
“There is no position reserved for any group or any community or any region. Kenya belongs to all of us,” he said.
This, he said, will give every child in the country hope that they can grow up and become anything they want.
“I want every child, as they grow up in Kenya, to know that merit is going to be the yardstick of how far they can go,” he said.
"That is the Kenya we all want to belong to. That is the Kenya I will work hard to make sure becomes a reality,” he added.
Mr Gachagua commended General Ogolla's leadership capabilities, saying he made an impact in the military during his tenure of service.
Mr Mudavadi said the late CDF was not only an accomplished military leader but also a diplomat.
“He used these skills to serve his country,” he said
Mr Wetang'ula said the late CDF was a fine military leader whose contribution to the nation's security is invaluable.
“He had clarity of mind of what we needed to do to secure our region,” he said.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale described General Ogolla as disciplined and a man of honour whose leadership in the military will be missed.
Education Committee Raises Concerns Over E-Citizen School Payment Plan
Lawmakers have raised concerns about the practicality of the government's plan to require all school fees to be paid through the eCitizen platform.
National Assembly Committee on Education and Research led by Hon. Malulu Injendi (Malava), met with Amb. (Prof.) Julius K. Bitok, the Principal Secretary for Immigration and Citizen Services, regarding the implementation of the presidential directive on payment of school fees through the E-Citizen platform.
Members of the Committee questioned the feasibility of the plan, particularly for families living in remote areas without reliable internet access and electricity. "How will parents in villages be expected to pay school fees online?" asked Nyamira County MP, Hon. Jerusha Momanyi.
Amb. Bitok acknowledged the challenges but defended the plan, stating that eCitizen has a "robust system" to streamline school fee collection. He emphasized ongoing consultations between his department and the Ministry of Education to address concerns.
Committee Vice-Chair, Hon. Malulu Ijendi (Malava) also raised concern regarding the potential for additional fees associated with using the eCitizen platform, placing an extra burden on parents.
Hon. Rebecca Tonkei (Narok County) asked, "Are parents going to incur extra costs of paying school fees using the e-citizen? Who is going to bear that cost?'
"We are not going to charge transaction fees to parents for paying school fees," responded PS Bitok.
The Principal Secretary also revealed that the implementation is planned to begin on May 1st, 2024, subject to resolving a court order and completing stakeholder engagement.
He added that while some educational institutions are already on boarded on eCitizen, there are still thousands, including county schools and national schools, that require integration.
Hon. Clive Gisairo (Kitutu Masaba) and Hon. Abdul Haro (Mandera South) inquired about the time it would take for schools to receive the fees once paid electronically, considering delays often experienced with the National Treasury.
Members of the Education Committee highlighted the need for a system that accommodates parents who traditionally pay school fees using livestock or other goods.
"We have parents across the country particularly in rural areas who pay school fees using maize, kuni, goats. How is the platform going to accommodate them?" asked Hon. Nabii Nabwera (Lugari).
Amb. Bitok informed the Committee that payment of school fees in kind will be montizws through the platform. However, legislators put the PS task on how it would be actualised.
PS Bitok further outlined various challenges faced during the implementation, including initial compatibility issues with university systems and a slow onboarding rate.
He highlighted ongoing efforts to address these issues, such as adapting the eCitizen platform to university needs and working with institutions to expedite the process.
KPA lauded for enhancing efficiency at the Likoni Ferry Crossing channel
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.
Red Bull Dance Competition Kick Offs Nationwide Tour In Eldoret
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.
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:
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Kisumu 27 April
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Kenyatta University 11 May
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Mombasa 25 May
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USIU 15 June
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Nairobi 29 June
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National Finals 13 July.
Lamu Port poised to be the hub of transshipment business
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.
Global Citizen Announces Winners Of Global Citizen Prize And Cisco Youth Leadership Award
By keeping the world's poor at the forefront of their campaigns, the Global Citizen Prize honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to defeating poverty, defending the planet, and demanding equity.
This year, the Global Citizen Prize recognizes advocates across five categories: gender equity, civic space, climate change, food and nutrition, health and vaccines.
The Global Citizen Prize 2024 awardees are:
- Andrew Ddembe, Health Lawyer, Founder and Executive Director, Mobiklinic Foundation, from Uganda;
- Lydia Charles Moyo, Founder and Executive Director of Her Initiative and Panda Digital, from Tanzania;
- Olivier Bahemuke Ndoole, Environmental Rights Defender and Lawyer, Cofounder of Alerte Congolaise pour l’Environnement et les Droits de l’Homme, from Democratic Republic of the Congo;
- Sophie Healy-Thow, Founder, Act4Food, Global Youth Campaigns Coordinator for the GAIN (Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition), from Ireland; and
- Vishal Prasad, Campaign Director, Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change, from Fiji.
Established in 2018 by Cisco and Global Citizen, the Global Citizen Prize: Cisco Youth Leadership Award honors an individual aged 18-30 who has contributed meaningfully to global problem solving. The prize winner will receive a US$250,000 grant to their organization to enable its continued growth.
This year’s Cisco Youth Leadership Award recipient is Ricardo Enrique Alba Torres, environmental engineer, Cofounder and CEO of the social enterprise Eko Group H2O+, from Bogotá, Colombia.
“If we are to address the world’s most pressing issues, we need to support young leaders who are taking action now,” said Liza Henshaw, President, Global Citizen. “It is an honor to celebrate these inspirational trailblazers, who are dedicating their lives to uplifting the most vulnerable in their local communities, and advancing the fight against ending extreme poverty across the world.”
“Cisco is deeply committed to the belief that the world needs innovators like Ricardo to lead the way in global problem solving,”said Fran Katsoudas, EVP and Chief People, Policy & Purpose Officer of Cisco.
The Global Citizen Prize is part of Global Citizen NOW, a two-day summit taking place in New York City on May 1 and 2, convening government leaders, private sector executives, grassroots activists, cultural innovators, philanthropic experts, and leading journalists to set a global agenda for action on the most urgent issues facing humanity and the planet.
Unite And Work Together For The Sake Of Development, Coast Leaders Told
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.
A Taste Of Magic At Sankara
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.
