By Faith Waithaka, Cloud and Service Provider Segment Sales Lead: Anglophone Africa at Schneider Electric

As the African datacentre sector emerges as an important global player gender diversity must undoubtedly also keep pace with this growth.  Unfortunately, current estimates are not promising; a recent report by the Uptime Institute states that three-quarters of datacentre operators employ 10% or less women.

Similarly, a study by the International Energy Agency (IEA) reveals that women make up a mere 16% of the traditional energy sector's workforce, again highlighting a substantial gender gap. Moreover, women in the sector face a pay disparity of 20% compared to their male counterparts.

The reality is achieving sustainability goals and staying ahead of digitalisation curve, require a diverse and innovative workforce. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just ethical imperatives; it represents a strategic business imperative that drives creativity and foster innovation.

At this important juncture, industry leaders from across the continent must come together to pave the way for increased female representation in the datacentre sector. 

The recent establishment of the African Women Business Energy Network (AWBEN) by the African Energy Chamber is an important step in the right direction.  The chamber aims to foster a supportive community for women in the energy and datacentre industry. This initiative recognises that as the energy sector expands, so does the imperative for more women to participate.

AWBEN’s key initiatives include inciting collaboration among African women in the energy industry, hosting mentorship programmes and empowering women to take ownership of their personal and professional development, offering coaching and sponsorship opportunities for girls in STEM, creating avenues to encourage more African women-participation and leadership roles in the energy industry.

Addressing cultural, social and skills challenges

One of the challenges hindering female participation in the datacentre industry is the influence of cultural and social norms. Here, the industry must come together to not only attract women to the sector but to also break barriers that may discourage them from pursuing roles.

By dismantling these historic challenges, we can create an environment where women feel empowered to contribute meaningfully to the data centre industry. One of the areas where there is a need for change, is women in leadership. Young women thinking about their career options may be deterred from entering an industry where there are few women leaders.  This needs to change.

Furthermore, to secure the future of sustainable datacentres in Africa, the industry must invest in both inspiring and retaining the next generation of skilled professionals. This begins with encouraging young talent, especially girls, to pursue STEM subjects from an early age.

Supporting initiatives such as Girls in Data and Woman in Data and establishing mentorship programmes are crucial steps in a more equally represented datacentre industry.

The Bandari Maritime Academy (BMA) has entered into an agreement with the Korea Institute for Maritime and Fisheries Technology (KIMFT)  that will see the two institutions collaborate in joint training and certification, exchange programs, joint capacity building programs among other areas.

The MOU signed by Bandari Maritime College C.E.O Dr Eric Katana and the KIMFT president Jong Kim in Busan Campus South Korea on Wednesday was witnessed by the Principal Secretary  State Department for Shipping and Maritime Affairs Geoffrey Kaituko.

"This MOU will enormously contribute to the Government of Kenya’s efforts to leverage the oceans and blue economy to create sustainable job opportunities for young people." said Kaituko.

Adding " More importantly this will enable Cadets from our licenced Maritime Education and Training Institutions to receive high quality maritime education and training at KIMFT’s advanced facilities will support Kenya’s efforts to grow its Merchant Navy and grow her maritime resources."

Kenya made a formal application in February 2024 to KIMFT through the Korean Embassy in Nairobi for consideration in the Global On Board Training Programme & the Impartment of Advanced MET Programme for the 2024/2025 year.

Other areas of collaboration between the two institutions includes curriculum development, sourcing for onboard training for students (sea-time), research, develoement and innovation, and exchange of publications and teaching materials.

PS Kaituko noted "We wish to expand the said areas of cooperation to include donation/grants of training equipment and facilities including and not limited to simulators for the use of the Academy."

There are currently seven(7) public and private institutions in Kenya offering maritime education and training, graduating more than 200 personnel annually in various maritime education and training programs such as marine engineering, nautical science, maritime transport & logistics at degree, diploma and certificate levels.

By Carol Koech, Strategy Director, Sustainability & Thought Leadership – Schneider Electric International Operations.

In a time when countries are proactively moving toward more sustainable practices, particularly in light of the recent COP28 climate summit’s plan for transitioning from fossil fuels, East Africa is undoubtedly a shining beacon.

Today, the region continues to implement a comprehensive, multi-layered approach to addressing climate-related challenges.

From renewable energy initiatives to greener agriculture, transportation, and tourism, East Africa is navigating a complex landscape with both urgency and pragmatism.

Kenya is a prime example; the country relies heavily on renewable energy, with geothermal and hydropower contributing significantly to its energy base load.

As of 2021, the green component of Kenya's energy mix stands at an impressive 81%, tangibly demonstrating the country’s commitment to clean energy.

Importantly, Kenyan CEOs, captains of industry and government entities are driving the agenda for climate sensitive practices that allow them to meet their decarbonisation goals.

This commitment is undoubtedly creating important momentum in the industry and reemphasising that both public and private sectors have roles to play in addressing environmental challenges.

In Kenya, sustainability is driven by various industries, some of which include:

.Telecommunications Industry – Safaricom's Initiatives: Safaricom, a leading telco in Kenya, is making substantial strides in sustainability.

Initiatives include the collection and recycling of 1626 tons of e-waste, with 310 (cumulative total) sites powered by clean and renewable energy, marking a 19% increase in sites operated by the company compared to the previous year.

Furthermore, Safaricom continues to demonstrate its commitment to diversity with a 50% women workforce and 35% representation in top leadership.

The deliberate measures to assess carbon footprint (66,562 tCO2e) and water consumption (58,340 cubic meters) underscore the company’s dedication to holistic sustainability.

• Food and Beverage (F&B) industry – Bio Foods' Initiatives: In the F&B sector, Bio Foods Bio Foods is setting an exemplary standard for sustainability.

The company has successfully recycled 96.8% of the 26,280 kgs of waste produced. Bio Foods has implemented a closed-loop water system for their UHT autoclave machine, allowing them to recycle up to 60,000 litres of water daily.

Despite increased production, the company has reduced its carbon footprint by an impressive 22%.

These are just but a few of the many leading companies making moves towards sustainable practices.

Organisations such as Schneider Electric have also been instrumental in enabling countries to tackle their sustainability challenges head on.

By digitising processes and implementing energy measurement tools, Schneider Electric is assisting companies to valuable insights into their energy consumption, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable operations.

By implementing EcoStruxure solutions such as the industries have led optimised and energy efficient operations enabling them meet industry benchmarked ISO standards for energy management, environmental management, GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions, and life cycle assessment.

Further, the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7: access to Affordable and Clean Energy is one the pillars in the globe’s sustainability journey, that various East African industries are working on to transition to prosumer status, by generating and consuming their own energy. 

The proof is in the proverbial pudding, and East Africa is certainly putting proactive steps in place to establish a region that is driven by sustainable practices, renewable energy and importantly a clear, climate-sensitive vision for the future.

Shipping and Maritime Affairs Principal Secretary Geoffrey Kaituko has announced government's plan of sending 1,000 seafarers to Korea every year.

According to Kaituko this will help create jobs for the many youths in the country graduating as seamen.

Speaking in Korea during a meeting with the Korea Shipping Association Vice Chairman Chang-ho Yang, Kaituko said this will also help in filling the shortage of seafarers in the Korean shipping industry.

"We currently have three public institutions and two private ones training our youth on seafarer and our focus as the government has been to finding market for these youths and we believe with the partnership with Korea then we will be creating opportunities and jobs" said Kaituko.

On Tuesday, the PS is heading a delegation in Korea including the Bandari Academy C.E.O Eric Katana , will be witnessing the signing of a memorandum of association (MOU) between the Bandari Maritime Academy and the Korea Institute of Maritime and fisheries technology.

 “If we train more than 1,000 students at Bandari Maritime University as seafarers , then we can supply at least 1,000 seafarers a year to Korea,”  said Bandari Academy C.E.O Katana.

Adding "Our youths have an added advantage, they can speak fluent english, so they can easily communicate worldwide."

The Kenyan delegation is also expected to meet the officials from shipping companies and SM (ship management) companies in Busan, South Korea.

After a year-long hiatus, chart-topping artist Nikita Kering’ is back with her highly anticipated second single of 2024, 'Doja.'

This time, she joins forces with the acclaimed Nigerian experimental producer Osarumen Osamuyi, better known as LMBSKN.

This Afrohouse/Electronic track marks Nikita's debut into a new genre.

Drawing inspiration from the recent persona of Doja Cat, the track showcases Nikita Kering's evolution as an artist, expressing sensuality in a way she has never done before.

The track boasts production, mixing, and mastering by LMBSKN, ensuring a seamless blend of Afrohouse and Electronic elements. Nikita Kering’ takes the spotlight as the performer and the lyrics, a collaborative effort between Nikita and singer, songwriter, Savinnah.

This latest release solidifies Nikita Kering's position as a versatile and innovative artist in the music industry.

Fans can immerse themselves in this musical masterpiece on all major streaming platforms.

Femi One has set the music scene ablaze once again with the release of her electrifying new single, "B.A."

Today, she proudly presents the much-anticipated accompanying music video, a vibrant celebration of life.

"B.A" which translates into “we are good or tuko poa" is all about turning negatives into positives.

With its infectious beats and uplifting lyrics, the song is a powerful reminder to embrace happiness and the simple things in life. It's a perfect blend of Femi One's signature style and irresistible energy.

Directed by the visionary Steven Mugo, the music video for "B.A" is a visual feast, capturing the essence of the song with dynamic choreography, stunning visuals, and Femi One's magnetic presence.

From start to finish, viewers are taken on a journey filled with excitement, empowerment, and unapologetic self-expression.

Adding to the allure of "B.A" is the masterful production by Jegede, whose deft touch brings out the best in Femi One's electrifying performance.

The seamless fusion of beats and vocals creates an irresistible groove that will have listeners hitting the replay button again and again.

Speaking about the release, Femi One expressed her excitement, saying, "I'm thrilled to share 'B.A' with the world. This song is all about embracing who you are and being content with the simple things in life. I hope it inspires everyone to let go of negativity and celebrate their individuality."

With "B.A," Femi One once again proves why she's one of Kenya's most exciting musical talents.

Her infectious energy, unmatched skill, and empowering message continue to resonate with audiences around the globe.

The audio for "B.A" is now available on all major streaming platforms. 

The Port of Mombasa got a major boost after one of the container vessel operated by leading global shipping line Messina made its maiden call at the port.

The ship which is the 3rd full container vessel for Messina line with a carrying capacity of 4395 Twenty Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) and 260 meters long docked at the port on Tuesday evening from Djibouti.

Speaking during the welcoming ceremony and issuance of certificate of first call, Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) Managing Director William Ruto noted that the port has managed to win the confidence and trust of major shipping lines due it's efficiency.

"When you have efficiency everybody tends to follow you" argued Ruto.

Adding "We want to appreciate Messina for converting the port of Mombasa to a transshipment hub. 35% of it's cargo is heading To Daresalaam but they will be first passing through Mombasa. This is good for our business".

The MD further added that the port will strive to improve it's services in order to attract more shipping lines and business.

'As the port we want to commit ourselves in terms of operational efficiency and reduction of ship waiting time. When you reduce the ship waiting time then you have also reduced the cost of business which most shipping line are keen on" he asserted.

On his part the ship captain Tommaso Elmetto assured the management of the port that the good relation between the shipping line and the port will continue.

"We have had a very good co-operation and relationship with the port of Mombasa for a very long time and I believe this will continue and many ships from Messina will be coming here" said Elmetto.

The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has officially launched the Parliamentary Caucus Network.

 The primary objective of the network which was launched during a three-day High-Level Regional Legislators Meeting is to promote peace, development, and regional integration in the IGAD member countries.

The meeting brought together lawmakers from Ethiopia, Djibouti, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, and Uganda.

The meeting organized by IGAD Centre of Excellence for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE) with the support of Sweden government aimed at advancing conversation on how to successfully achieve gender sensitive legislations and to officially launch the IGAD Legislators Network.

IGAD Centre of Excellence for Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (ICEPCVE), Simon Nyambura emphasized the significance of the network in contributing to the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

“This network will not only just help IGAD in terms of fighting terrorism and violent extremism, but in search for peace and stability within the region. We think that the members of parliament have a role to ensure that this region is peaceful and secure,” he stated.

Nyambura stressed the need for legislators towards ensuring that the region is safe and secure.

“Therefore, we are encouraging them to continue oversight in the agencies that fight terrorism and violent extremism, because we cannot win this war unless we fight this war within the rule of Law, respect for human rights.”

Jochim Beijmo, Head of Regional Development Cooperation in Africa at the Embassy of Sweden in Addis Ababa, highlighted the global threat of violent extremism and reaffirmed Sweden’s support for IGAD.

Beijimo  emphasized the importance of integrating gender equality into the process, recognizing the special needs of women and their vulnerability to extremism movements.

"Beijimo argued Integrating gender equality into that process is very important, because we know that women have special needs and they are also sometimes victims of these extremism movements,”