Kenya Electricity Generating Company PLC (KenGen), has reported a significant 48% growth in profit after tax for the year ended June 30, 2023, surging to Ksh.5.02 billion up from Ksh.3.4 billion in the previous year.

At the same time, the NSE-listed company has reported a steady 14% growth in revenues from Ksh.47.48 billion in 2022 to Ksh.53.96 billion, largely driven by the company’s investments in geothermal energy.

“In a landscape filled with both opportunities and challenges, the KenGen team has demonstrated remarkable resilience. We are proud to announce a remarkable Ksh.5.02 billion representing a 48% growth in our profit after tax,” said the Managing Director and CEO Peter Njenga.

Adding “This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of our team and our commitment to providing clean, reliable energy to Kenyans,”

Speaking in Mombasa, Njenga attributed the impressive performance to the enhanced operational efficiency of the company’s geothermal fleet in Olkaria, Naivasha, further bolstered by a positive impact of the newly commissioned Olkaria I Additional Unit 6 geothermal power plant which added 86MW to the grid in July 2022.

“The commissioning of Olkaria I AU 6 geothermal power plant pushed up our geothermal generation by 24 percent. This contributed to an overall increase in electricity unit sales from 7,918GWh in 2022 to 8,027GWh,” said Njenga.

However, KenGen reported an increase in operating costs which the CEO attributed to rising insurance and impairment costs.

This was however matched by growth in revenue resulting in a pre-tax profit of Ksh.8.5 billion, which was a substantial improvement from Ksh.6.2 billion reported in the previous year.

“We are confident that our Good-to-Great Transformation Strategy is on course and will continue to deliver growth over the next decade to ensure a reliable supply of clean and affordable energy to the people of Kenya,” said Njenga, adding that the company contributed over 66% of Kenya’s electricity consumption in the year.

The NSE-listed company CEO said KenGen had helped cushion Kenyans from the effects of climate change which has seen rainfall levels drop in the country over the past few years.

He said: “Notably, our investments in geothermal energy ensured uninterrupted electricity supply, even in the face of challenges posed by a prolonged drought and reduced hydropower generation.”

Looking ahead, KenGen will be banking on the growth in demand for electricity in Kenya which continues to soar at about 5% annually. In line with the demand and the Least Cost Power Development Plan (LCPDP), the company has announced ambitious plans to augment generation capacity by more than 154MW over the next two years through the rehabilitation and uprating of its existing power plants.

“One of the projects we are looking to deliver soon include the Gogo Hydropower Redevelopment Project in Migori County which was approved by cabinet recently and is set to elevate the dam's electricity capacity from its current 2MW to 8.6MW,” said Njenga.

KenGen boasts a diverse energy portfolio, including geothermal, hydro, wind, and thermal adding up to 1,904MW of which 86% is drawn from renewable sources.  

President William Ruto is expected to officially open the Voi Gemstone Centre on Friday.

The centre which is set to benefit more than 1,500 artisanal and small-scale miners from Taita Taveta county will cut, polish, add value as well as package gemstones for sale in the international market.

The centre is also aimed at increasing the value of minerals produced in the country and sold in other markets.

It will also be a collection centre for precious stones mined by small-scale miners.

The Sh60 million gemology centre which was set for official opening in 2018 was delayed due to little progress in the processing of gemstones.

This will be the only facility in the country where value addition for minerals takes place before miners sell their products.

WOJO hosted a networking event seeking to provide professionals an opportunity to share innovative ideas and foster collaborations.

Located at Mercure Hotel in Upperhill, the co-working space which recently launched in the country and the continent, is a global leader in providing innovative co-working solutions.

The expansion marks a significant milestone in WOJO's journey, as it seeks to bring its world-class co-working spaces to one of Africa's most vibrant and promising business landscapes.

“The specificity of WOJO is that hospitality excellence and skills are at the core of the business. WOJO, leverages excellence in comfort and office expertise. WOJO materializes the ‘Workspitality ‘concept,” said WOJO Africa Growth Lead Faith Nyongesa.

As part of its strategic vision, WOJO Africa aims to replicate its success on a Pan-African scale and contribute to the growth of Kenya's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

"Kenya is an exciting market with a burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit and a growing demand for flexible workspace solutions. WOJO is dedicated to providing an environment that inspires innovation, facilitates connections, and nurtures the aspirations of local businesses," added Ms. Nyongesa.

WOJO offers seamless support with mobile reception, a lively hub for collaborative creativity in our lively co-working areas, and peaceful productivity in our quiet areas.

It also offers an opportunity to elevate corporates with virtual and private offices offering access to dynamic executive meeting rooms and break spaces.

With fast, reliable internet, unlimited coffee, tea, and water, and relaxing cozy lounge areas, it is more than a desk – a dynamic workspace that adapts to client’s needs, offering unmatched convenience and work-life balance.

WOJO also offers amazing discounts on Mercure Hotel amenities including hotel rooms, restaurant services, event spaces, a gym, and a swimming pool.

Global Afropop superstar Yemi Alade is an unstoppable force, and in her true element and brand, she has released a brand new single “Lipeka” featuring Congolese artist Innoss'B.

This dynamic and surprise collaboration is poised to set the music scene ablaze.

With Yemi Alade's signature cross-cultural approach and Innoss'B’s distinctive blend of Congolese Rumba, the outcome of “Lipeka” is a catchy and infectious Afro dance track infused with Lingala, French and Nigerian lingua.

The duo have created a musical masterpiece that transcends borders and celebrates the rich diversity of African music.

Yemi Alade is stirring excitement and tantalizing taste of her upcoming seventh body of work set for release in the last quarter of 2023. She teases, “My upcoming album is a representation of my thoughts, needs, experiences, stories, ideas and my desire to connect with every listener on each song. Every song is potent with stories.”

The new single comes off the back of Yemi Alade’s streak of hit releases and completing the successful ‘African Baddie’ world tour alongside her African Train Band (that stopped in 22 countries). 

In 2023, Yemi continues her reign on the continental music charts, with a collection of hits maintaining their dominance like “Fear Love”, “Fake Friends (Iró Òre)”, “Pounds & Dollars” feat Phyno, “Baddie”, “Jo Jo” feat. Bisa Kdei and “Bright Future” with Mr Vegas.

Kisumu-based rapper and singer, Gabriel Washington famously known as Gabiro Mtu Necessary has finally released the music video to his viral TikTok hit ‘Pok Alando’.

With over 13 million video views on his TikTok videos, Mtu Necessary has built himself a new career as a content creator on the short videos platform with over 60,000 followers and growing.

His song ‘Pok Alando’ not only got considered for the 65th Grammy Awards nomination in 2022 but also was part of his debut album ‘Saint John’ and was also considered for the best global music album nomination by the Recording Academy in 2022.

In July this year, Gabiro went viral on TikTok with a comical video that received over 2 million views, giving birth to a new career for Mtu Necessary as a comedian/content creator. He has since been posting videos on a daily basis and getting to win hearts with every smile he puts on people’s faces.

Away from the short comedy skits he also shares snippets and freestyle of his music and that is how he managed to have the song ‘Pok Alando’ become a hit on TikTok.

‘Pok Alando’ is a Luo word that loosely translates to “I have not announced” or “It’s clear and unhidden” and in this context, Gabiro uses it in the song to flex and talk about his lifestyle and nature as a rich and hard-working man. He urges fellow youths to embrace hard work and patience if they want to win in life.

Gabiro boasts about his lyrical prowess, rap skills, and notable achievements as a musician and as a person in the song in an inspirational way. He motivates others to rise up and go for what they want to become as heard in verse one, “...umezaliwa ukuwe winner ebu kazana uskike,” raps Mtu Necessary.

The self-proclaimed Kisumu president has two Grammy Awards recognition and nomination considerations and stands as the most streamed Kisumu-based musician on Boomplay with over 2 million cumulative streams on his songs.

Blakangel produced Pok Alando under Jodifa Enterprises and Crizo Mzeyah directed the video.

Watch Pok Alando Video below:

https://youtu.be/OZEMUhUA-34

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.