Mombasa based transformational life coach, author, business consultant and mentor Sheila Toya has just released her first book.

The book titled 'Finding The True You'  hit the stands last month, October 2021.

In an interview with Ommy Dallah, Toya talks in detail about her newly launched book and work

1...Tell us more about yourself , who is Sheila Toya?

I am Sheila Toya

I am a transformational life coach, author, business consultant and mentor.

As a certified NLP Practitioner I work with individuals towards their self discovery, self mastery and transcendence objectives.

2...When did you first realise you wanted to be a writer?

I have always admired writing. I have always wondered how people get to become authors until I realised later on in life that it is as easy as putting your thoughts on paper.

3...Apart from writing, what is your other profession? Has it ever influenced your writing?

As previously mentioned as a transformational life coach and catalyst I support individuals to develop behaviors of success through a change of mindset and behavioral patterns.

 I practice mindfulness in all that I do and how I live my life so the learnings  (what i term as gleeanings) I get out of journeying through life significantly contribute to my writing.

4....Any particular authors that inspired your writing?

 I don't have any specific authors because I read widely depending on what my season is or what I need to learn. I do not limit myself to any particular author.

5...Are you a disciplined or spontaneous writer?

I am both a spontaneous and disciplined writer. Some writings i am very spontaneous while in others I apply discipline in the writing I do.

6...Let's talk about your new book, tell us more about it?

My recently authored book 'Finding The True You' is a simple guide to self discovery and enables the readers to understand how they can live a fulfilled life as they stay true to who they are while accomplishing their purpose. I have realised that many people lack self awareness and do not have life skills. This applies to both young and old, no matter the social or religious status, leading to high cases of mental health issues and life challenges as well.

7....How long did it take you to write the book from the idea inception to publication?

Every book has a story. Finding The True You has evolved and gone through such immense change to be what it is today. I would say that once the season for its release came it took a couple of weeks to have the same finalised. I have different versions of the same but this is what I was fully persuaded was meant to be released. I am glad with what it is currently.

8....What part of the book was the most difficult to write?

This book is basically some of my life's experiences captured in a book as a guide to the many people who are on a self-discovery quest and desirous to live a fulfilled life. Some instances the emotion of what I was experiencing at a particular time would be awakened within me and it can get really emotionally raw. I am grateful that as a result 'Finding The True You' gets to be a relatable book because the reader will connect and relate with the same as a result.

 9...How can one find the book?

The book is available @ kshs 1500 on Paybill 925974 The Journey Concept Account is the reader's name.

Pick up point is Close The Gap Ratna Square Mombasa 

10...Who do you consider your most critic and why?

I am my own worst critic. I am the type that will put myself under the spotlight of self criticism as I push myself towards being and doing better.

 I also have people that I have surrounded myself with who have the express authority to speak into my life as tough or as hard as it deserves to be done because I know they have my best interests at heart and I am open to receive the same.

 11...Any future projects after this?

I have many more books that are yet to be released. I am currently finalising on 'The Exceptional Woman' an inspiration to women to embrace extraordinary traits to be all that they can be. This is specifically for that woman that desires to get exceptionally extraordinary.

 'Finding The True You' on the other hand is for the general audience so is a read to all who are desirous to experience living a fulfilled life as they find their true selves.

Kenya’s Sarova Panafric held the historical cake mixing ceremony that traditionally marks the beginning of a celebratory mood as the world starts to enter the Christmas season. The event also marked the hotel’s commitment to giving customers within and without Kenya a taste that matches their unique needs.

The exciting event was characterized by the mixing of traditional liquors with sultanas, raisins, cashews, almonds, plums, peaches and nuts awaiting Christmas season baking. The chefs on site showed their prowess in mixing and combining the ingredients for a spectacular outcome.

Other ingredients that went into the cake mix included dates, figs, dried cherries, pistachios, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, dried ginger, candied fruits, prunes, walnuts, sugar, eggs and all-purpose flour. The mixture is then soaked in rum, brandy, wine or a combination of fruit juices and alcohol, all of which give the cake its signature taste and aroma.

The cake mix is filled in airtight containers and is allowed to soak for at least a week. Since alcohol is a preservative, it was believed that preserving the cake mix for a year could attract good luck and harmony.

According to Sarova Hotel’s group Pastry Chef, Sanjit Gupta, the lovely ceremony presented an occasion where chefs and participants do not just make preparations for the upcoming festival, but also get together to welcome the festive spirit that is so synonymous with Christmas.

“For us, this is not just a cake mixing ceremony because we know many others might be doing the same. For us, it is a show of the expertise that we put in place to give our customers the best,” said the chef.

The event is part of the history that dates back to the 17th century when cake mixing was done to mark the arrival of the harvest season in a procedure that has remained constant through the years. This tradition used to be an intimate family affair to symbolize unity and hard work and is now no longer a preserve of Christian households.

Mombasa businessman and politician Suleiman Shahbal is among six individuals nominated by the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party to serve as members of the East Africa Legislative Assembly (EALA).

The list was officially released by ODM on Wednesday morning following a selection process which was chaired by deputy party leader and former Kakamega governor Wycliffe Oparanya.

Others in the list include ODM party leader Raila Odinga's daughter Winnie Odinga,  Mohammed Diriye, Timothy Bosire, Beatrice Askul and Justus Kizito.

The nominees are required to submit their applications by Wednesday, November 9.

During the campaigns in the run-up to the August 9 election, Shabal worked closely with the Azimio la Umoja leadership in campaigning for Raila Odinga's presidential bid.

Shahbal was among the top contenders for the Mombasa gubernatorial seat in the last election but shelved his ambition for the current governor Abdulswamad Nassir after consultations headed by party leader Raila Odinga and former Mombasa governor Hassan Joho.

Likoni Mp Mishi Mboko and her Nyali counterpart Mohammed Ali are among Mps approved to serve as commissioners in the powerful Parliamentary service commission(PSC).

Mboko will represent the Azimio la Umoja Alliance together with Mavoko Mp Patrick Makau and Isiolo Senator Fatuma Dullo.

"My humble gratitude Goes to The ODM Party for nominating me as among the commissioners to serve at the Parliamentary Service Commission. To the Honrouble Members of Parliament, Thank you for unanimously confirming all the nominated Commissioners before the house." said Mboko.

Adding"I promise to serve diligently at the PSC and take care of affairs and operations of the parliament.

Ali will represent the Kenya Kwanza Alliance, others from the Kenya Kwanza Alliance are Nyandarua Women Rep Faith Gitau. Nominated Senator Joyce Korir and Laikipia Senator Nderitu Kinyua.

Their approval brings to an end the scramble to serve in the lucrative commission that is mandated to address the welfare of their colleagues for the next five years. The PSC will have 11 members when it is fully constituted who will pick the vice chairperson when they hold their first meeting before they commence their five-year term.

The commission will be chaired by National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula with Senate Clerk Jeremiah Nyegenye serving as Secretary to the Commission. The commission will also have two members who are not parliamentarians but experienced in public service to represent public interest.

Azimio had been given three slots where they are supposed to nominate two names from the National Assembly and one from the Senate while Kenya Kwanza Alliance were given four slots.

The names were tabled in the National Assembly on Tuesday by Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wa.

Taita Taveta county government is grappling with health challenges including lack of medical drugs due to a Sh82 million debt

The Governor Andrew Mwadime  administration owe the Kenya Medical Supplies Agency Sh82 million for medicines and other pharmaceutical products.

The Governor urged his recently sworn in County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health Services Gifton Mkaya to put in strategies and seek donor funding to boost the sector.

“We have a lot of challenges in the health sector including lack of drugs in our public hospitals. Be entreprenuers seek funding to help the citizens,” he said.

Mr Mkaya said he will cooperate and enhance partnerships to address emerging challenges hindering effective and efficient delivery of healthcare services.

He is taking over the docket at a time when its grappling with acute shortage of pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical commodities due to the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) pending bill of approximately to Sh82 Million.

"I have already initiated an engagement with the KEMSA in a bid to agree on outstanding pending bill payment strategy to pave way for supply of essential medicines and medical supplies to our public health facilities" said CECM Mkaya.

Mr Mkaya said that he will shift the gears towards upgrading the existing public health facilities, specifically the Sub-County Hospitals and Moi-Voi County Referral Hospital.

"We are going to strengthen the capacity and capability of our hospitals by ensuring improved infrastructure and facilities in order to cushion our people from seeking these services in other counties" said the executive member.

He further added that new health services will be introduced in the hospitals as a way of maximizing the department's revenue streams.

East meets West in new Blinky Bill hit release  “Inaweza Haiwezi” featuring two of Africa’s greatest rappers: M.anifest (Ghana) and Khaligraph Jones (Kenya).

The new single is produced by Blinky Bill and Swiss producer Hook (MDQ), mixed by the legendary Commissioner Gordon (‘Miseducation of Lauryn Hill’, ‘Welcome To Jamrock’) and mastered by Tony Dawsey (Jay-Z ‘Blueprint 3’, Whitney Houston “My Love is your Love”, Nas ‘Illmatic’). 

It’s Zack Adell-directed video displays the trio’s skillful wit and braggadocio lyrics in the booming bass heavy track. 

Watch “Inaweza Haiwezi” 

“Inaweza Haiwezi” showcases Blinky’s eye for impeccable collaborative combinations, continuing to set the bar high and eases the level of these celebrated artists into a space to showcase their lyrical prowess and flow in delivery while also opening up the space for artists who are inclined to creating  timeless and not just for commercial benefits.

This is the final single release prior to the drop of Blinky Bill’s much anticipated album ‘We Cut Keys 2’ .

The institute of certified public accountants of Kenya (ICPK) has called for the quick roll out of the popular affirmative action fund, hustler fund.

According to ICPAK Chairman George Mokua the fund will be a major boost to small medium enterprises already feeling the heat of Covid-19 ramifications.

Mokua however cautioned that the fund risks eroding the existing funds like Uwezo fund among others.

"ICPAK is therefore of the considered opinion that such existing funds which have grown our people in the past should be kept running but with proper accountability mechanisms." said Mokua.

Adding " We urge that they be tailored towards the specific areas where they can still benefit youth and women."

The Hustler Fund, which is set to be operational in December, will see the government set aside Sh50 billion to provide cheaper credit for micro and small businesses.

Speaking at the sidelines of the 39th ICPAK annual seminar in Mombasa, Mokua also called on the government to come up with quick interventions to solve the current drought and hunger facing some parts of the country.

Among the issues that Mokua proposed is the review of government emergency response policies and reallocates funds to supply food and water to Kenyans in the affected areas.

Mokua charged "we propose that the government and private sector embrace sustainability reporting and continued climate financing strategies as a way of combat climate change challenges and also subsidize the cost of food production to ensure that there is food security in the country."

On county pending bills, Mokua called on the government to ensure that the pending bills are settled to avert financial crises.

"The ripple effect is that several Kenyan small and medium sized businesses bid for government contracts are quickly being edged out of business because of challenges posed by liquidity challenges. The delayed payments are also hitting the financial sector with lenders saddled with non- performing loans which have jumped to new highs due to Covi-19" argued Mokua.

Jomvu Member of Parliament Badi Twalib has put on the spot what he calls cartels controlling fresh water business at the expense of Jomvu sub county residents.

Twalib said water shortage has become a perennial problem in Jomvu, and now he reads mischief with people operating water Boozers who he accuses of allegedly sabotaging efforts to restore the water situation.

 “There is a cartel deliberately interfering with water supply to do business at the expense of my people, we are going to ensure that it is not tolerated, and we are not afraid of anyone, they are on the spot, we will allow them to do business but not at the expense of the people of Jomvu,”Twalib Said.

Fresh Water business in Jumvu Sub County has been thriving with water Boozer suppliers making a killing, thus subjecting residents to unbearable economic pain.

"People concerned with water supply should know that my people have a right to water, “said Twalib.

Speaking after meeting officials from the Mombasa water and sewarage company at his office , Twalib said he is making drastic efforts to restore the water shortage situation.

“This problem has persisted until our area Mo called for a meeting to resolve the matter because people are suffering because of water shortage, “said Jackton Madialo Mikindani ward representative..

Madialo regretted that residents have to contend with drinking unsafe water, while they have a right to clean water.

“I want to ask our residents to stay calm as we look for ways to improve water distribution, we want to ensure people get pure drinking water and that is why we have talks with Mombasa water,” said Twalib.

The meeting was also attended by Miritini MCA Kibwana Swaleh and his Jomvu Kuu counterpart Joshua Mose.

Sales of Phase 2 of the Buxton Point Affordable Housing project will be launched this month ahead of the completion of Phase 1 soon.

Phase 1 of the project consists of districts A, B, C, and D which include 534 apartments of 1, 2, and 3 bedrooms. The ongoing construction of phase 1 is 75 percent complete.

"To contribute to the cascading effect of our project and spice up its outlook, Phase 2 will involve the construction of tall towers of up to 16 floors that will provide our clients with a fascinating

sea view from their apartments." reads a statement from the Buxton Point C.E.O Ahmad Badawy

The construction of Phase 2 will include 1,400 apartments ranging from 1, 2, and 3 bedrooms with rooftop terraces and an elevator which will be installed to allow access to the high-tower

buildings.

"This is in a bid of adding flavour to the amazing lifestyle that we are creating at Buxton Point as we work towards the new face of Mombasa. Already, we have a waiting list of over 2, 000

people who have directly registered their applications with us as more inquiries come in." said Badawy

Adding "Another list of 300, 000 potential clients have made their inquiries through Boma Yangu, a government platform that allows a person to own an affordable house."

Buxton Point is currently among the largest affordable housing projects in the Country and is aimed at giving Mombasa residents not just apartments but a modern lifestyle.

This lifestyle will be achieved  through not only building modern affordable houses but also providing serene and secure homes with access to joint community facilities such as a community center, Kindergarten, Social Hall, sports courts, green areas, swimming pool, shops, food courts, public exercise equipment, walkways and more.

Tv47 coast senior reporter Patronilla Goren has left the company after two years of service to join one of the parastatals in the country.

According to inside sources, the hardworking, brilliant and always stunning reporter tendered her resignation to Cape media last month and has since assumed her duties in the corporate communication department at the said parastatal 

Goren has built her name in covering various stories across the Coast region, she came out boldly during the just concluded 2022 general elections where she was tasked with bringing viewers up to speed on election campaigns in the Coast.

Additionally, Goren is passionate about human rights activism and as a result she has been one of the female journalists in a Women human rights defenders and journalists network where she is at forefront of advocating for rights of women and children. 

Her latest feature that drew a lot of attention was "Masaibu ya Wakenya Uarabuni" and an English version of "plight of Kenyans in Saudi Arabia". Which highlighted the plight of Kenyans working in the Arab countries.

Ommy Dallah media wishes her all the best in her new career journey.