Bongo star Harmonize has officially parted ways with singers Cheed and Killy.

In a statement released by Konde music management, Cheed and Killy are no longer under the management.

"The management of Konde Music worldwide wishes to inform the public that we have reached a decision with Cheed and Killy to terminate their contracts due to reasons beyond our control" reads the statement.

Adding " The said artists are now independent and are free to work with any other party and the Konde Music management will not transact any business on behalf of them".

The two singers who were previously under AliKiba's music label King's Music joined Harmonize's Konde Music label in 2020.

Early this year another singer Country Boy also parted ways with the management.

Konde music has now remained with three signees, Harmonize, Ibrah and Anjelah.

Mombasa based female singer Sai Kenya is set to walk down the aisle this Saturday.

The talented singer currently signed under producer Shirko will walk down the aisle with her fiance Hassan at an invite only ceremony set to take place at a hotel in Nyali.

Last year, the singer announced that she had converted to Islam from Christianity and changed her name to Ayla.

"I have always wanted to become a Muslim it's just that I was not ready."  she told this blog.

https://ommydalla.co.ke/buzz/item/2184-mombasa-singer-converts-to-islam

Sai is a granddaughter of legendary Kenyan musician, the late Abel Kifoto, a pioneer member of the Maroon Commandos.

Muslims in Mombasa joined their counterparts from a round the World to celebrate Maulid Un Nabii, the birth of the holy Prophet Muhammad.

Led by several Muslim scholars, teachers and politicians including county governor Abdulswamad Nassir, thousands of Muslim faithfuls held a special procession (Zefe) within the city centre before converging at the Makadara grounds.

Speaking during the celebrations, Governor Nassir called on the Muslim community to remain united and avoid divisions.

"It is good to see people coming together in beautiful spirits as witnessed today. We might have small differences but our unity is our strength, let us focus on what brings us together as brothers and sisters and follow the teachings of our holy prophet Mohammed". said Nassir.

His sentiments were echoed by Mvita Mp Mohammed Machele who insisted on tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

"We might be from different sects but we are all Muslims and that is the most important thing, so we should learn to live together as one and avoid divisions. Let us accommodate each other" said machele.

Prophet Muhammad’s birthday provides a unique opportunity for Muslims to foster unity, love and understanding and to address the myriad of problems facing them.

Kisumu-based rapper Gabiro Mtu Necessary released his debut album “Saint John” in April 29th, 2022 exclusively on Boomplay and is now making it available everywhere after hitting the 500,000 streams mark on Boomplay.

The debut album follows the successful release of his two EPs “Mpito” and “Jenesis” which bagged him a Grammy recognition.

This is his third biggest project and a first full album project from the talented musician.

Taking after his late dad, Saint John is a mirror to the life teachings, good times and experiences he went through with his father before his demise in 2019. His father was his manager at the time.

The 12-track dancehall and drill album contains every element that leaves the listener reminiscing and having it on replay.

The vocals and instrumentation work seamlessly together in every track to give room for a must-listen record with the engaging melody and beats of each track giving the vocals an intimate and euphoric feeling.

Saint John Tracklist

1.      Saint John
2.      Pok Alando
3.      Drill ya Odhumo
4.      I Swear
5.      Pesa Oluoro Koko
6.      Kula Bata
7.      Dear Son
8.      Free ft Blakangel
9.      Okay
10.     Happy
11.     Rotterdam
12.     Kus Kus remix ft Javada

Streaming Link - http://li.sten.to/saintjohnalbum

Album download link - https://www.dropbox.com/sh/sorgu5tkra4pk54/AAB89S6_zwiknjtwOWKri7iba?dl=0

Netflix, the world’s leading streaming service collaborated with Kenya’s Ministry of Tourism, the Kenya Tourism Board and Kenya Wildlife Services to participate in this year’s Magical Kenya Expo which took place at the Bomas of Kenya between 5 - 7 October.

At the event on Friday, October 7, Netflix screened a short video that showcases its sustainability efforts through its support of The Wildlife Works Kasigau Corridor REDD+ Project located in South Eastern Kenya, between Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks.

The video also showcases the Netflix documentary - Our Great National Parks - which dedicates one of the episodes to the Tsavo National Park. 

The screening was kicked off with opening remarks by Kenya Wildlife Service’s Director General - John Waweru - who thanked Netflix Team by stating: "For the last two years, Netflix has been filming within Tsavo; and Kenya Wildlife Services sees this continuing into the future.”

He added, “  What this documentary showcases is an example of transformation happening in conservation. The transformation has been made possible by engaging the community in many ways including providing resources which transforms the livelihoods of community members.”

His remarks were followed by Netflix’s Director of Public Policy, Shola Sanni, who iterated Netflix’s Net Zero + Nature commitment - announced in March 2021 - to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by the end of 2022, and every year afterwards. We have since shared an update that we’re on track to meet our science-based climate targets and while we’ve made progress this year, we still have a long way to go.

“At Netflix, we strive to contribute positively to local economies, culture, and creative communities, and thereby are dedicated to understanding and minimizing our environmental impact wherever we operate, across the globe, and many of our top creators see sustainability as a source for creative excellence and authentic storytelling that attracts vast audiences - particularly young audiences,” said Sanni. 

Sanni added; “With all that in mind, we have ambitious climate targets, in particular in terms of scope and urgency and investing in operational changes to reduce our direct emissions while partnering with suppliers such as Wildlife Works and technology partners in our value chain to tackle indirect emissions. 

A panel featuring the Wildlife Works Kasigau Corridor REDD+ representatives; Captain Kenneth Ochieng, Senior Assistant Head Director at Tsavo National Park, Jane Okoth- Media and Communications Officer, Joseph Mwakima - Community Relations Officer,  Constance Mwandaa - Ranger and Head of Training, explored the impact of the Kasigau Corridor REDD+ Project and shared updates and progress since filming of video.

A key takeaway from the panelists was the importance of educating and sensitizing the local communities on the need to protect the environment and wildlife, with Captain Kenneth Ochieng assuring the attendees that KWS is working well under structured engagements and has signed various joint MOUs to bolster the safety and security of wildlife.

Ranger Constance Mwandaa was glad to share that the local community at Kasigau Corridor now recognises female rangers and accords them the same treatment with their male counterparts. Joseph Mwakima - Community Relations Officer reiterated that without the community involvement and inclusivity among key stakeholders, the conservation efforts of the Wildlife Works Kasigau Corridor REDD+ Project wouldn't have been successful, adding, “The documentary represents the uniqueness of our project and how we work. It included everyone –they are the people who come up with ideas and make decisions.”

Netflix, the world’s leading streaming entertainment service, announced the East Africa recipients of the Netflix Creative Equity Scholarship Fund (CESF) providing financial support to African creatives to access quality tertiary education in film and TV-focused disciplines.

The scholarship fund for sub-Saharan students is part of Netflix’s global Netflix Creative Equity Fund launched in 2021 with the goal of developing a strong, diverse pipeline of creatives around the world.

The Netflix Creative Equity Scholarship Fund celebrated the inaugural cohort of 46 beneficiaries from five East African countries (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and South Sudan) at a ceremony held at Nairobi’s KCA University.

Meet the 46 Beneficiaries:

Recipients for Certificate in Film Studies include: from Kenya - Victor Odhiambo Tindi, Saidi Mohamed Mujibu, Pauline Wanjiru Mwangi, Mwavaga Shadrine Lumonye, Bobson Fadhili Mwamburi, Simon Njogu Wacira, Felix Otieno Odhiambo, Derrick Bosire, Dorcas Kelly Katunge, Teresia Wanjiru Mbugua, Kelvin Mbuvi Ngatta, Clinton Aguma, Martha Muthoni Mutiso and Jeffither Murimi Kariuki.

Recipients for Certificate in Film & Television include: from Kenya - Martin Toroi Walucho and Steve Gitau Ng’ang’a.

Recipients in Film Production include: Cynthia Wanjiku Muniu, Fortune Wise Chege and Augustine Ondera Alfred from South Sudan.

Recipients in Diploma in Film & Television Production include: from Kenya - Denis Musungu, Memusa Christopher Lesikito, Nyokabi Gitonga Jackline, Jonathan Efwaine Anyange, Lucky Wanja Wangari, Ebenyo William Eloto, Solomon Ewoi Emuria and Jerry Mokua Sakwa. Yvan King Mukunzi from Rwanda, Belone Irakoze from Burundi, Joyce Isaac Cleto Alimu from South Sudan and Amisha Janat Mukasa.

All the beneficiaries are eligible to receive a  full scholarship which includes - tuition, accommodation, living stipend and education supplies. The inaugural cohort of awardees have enrolled for certificate, diploma and degree courses as follows: 19 have enrolled in certificate programs, 22 in diploma programs and 5 in degree programs. Furthermore, the largest group of beneficiaries are between the ages of 18-25 years.

The program is currently being administered by HEVA Fund in partnership with Africa Digital Media Institute (ADMI); Kenya Film School (KFS); KCA University; Kenyatta University and United States International University Africa (USIU). The five institutions of higher learning in Kenya will support the formal qualification and training of aspiring creatives from the region.

The ‘Class of 2022 Roll Call’ event served as an informal ceremony to bring together students, partner institutions and key stakeholders together to celebrate the scholarship’s recipients and the program at large.

In attendance were various government agency representatives, the CEO of the Kenya Film Commission Timothy Owase, Pascal Opiyo - AG, Chief Manager Corporate Services at KFCB; Mrs Emily Njeru - Deputy Director at Kenya National Commission for UNESCO and Eugene Mbugua - founder and Managing director OF young Rich Television Limited. Also present at the event were members of the partner institutions including Dr. Rachel Diang’a, Chair of the department of cinematic arts in USIU; Mr. Kelvin Ogutu, Deputy Principal and Head of Academics in ADMI; Mr. Victor Ouma, Head of Academics in KFS; Prof. Isaiah Wakindiki, Vice Chancellor and CEO of KCA University and Dr. Beneah Shapaya, Lecturer at the Department of Communications, Media, Film and Theatre Studies in Kenyatta University.

In keeping with the theme of spotlighting storytellers, some of Kenya’s acclaimed TV & Film stars were present including cast members of the first Netflix series from Kenya, Country Queen - Blessing Lung’aho, Melissa Kiplagat and Melvin Alusa alongside Disconnect actress Catherine (Kate) Kamau and Tosh Gitonga, who directed Disconnect and co-directed Country Queen, The Brave Ones and Nairobi Half Life.

Mombasa businessman Abubakar Ahmed Talib has finally been sworn in as a Nominated Member of Parliament (MP).

Talib was sworn in today (Thursday) by the National Assembly Deputy Speaker Gladys Shollei.

This follows a court order following a row over the nomination slot within Wiper Party by ordering the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to gazette the name of Talib.

Talib ,who was number one on the nomination list,  had challenged the decision by Wiper to replace his name.

The court quashed the revised list that was issued to IEBC by the party, which replaced Talib’s name with that of Lucas Mulinge, saying the new list is illegal, null and void.

The court ruled the National Assembly party list submitted to and received by IEBC from Wiper on July 21 bearing the name of Talib as a nominee to the National Assembly is legal and valid.

In the case, Talib claimed that his name was unlawfully omitted from the Wiper party list.

He further said that without any consultation, Wiper put his name in the list of nominees for MCA Mombasa county, a position he never applied for.

A section of Women in Kilifi county have come out to defend the nomination of former Malindi Mp Aisha Jumwa as the Cabinet Secretary, ministry of Public Service and Gender.

The women led by Priscilla Zawadi, Christine Akinyi and Bendera Charo castigated Azimio la Umoja One Kenya coalition party leaders for discrediting Jumwa's nomination.

The Women said that the utterances by Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Edwin Sifuna who is also Nairobi senator bordered on disrespect to women leadership.

“We want respect for women in Kilifi County and Asha Jumwa should be respected and we issue a warning that this is the last time we will entertain such attacks on her character. If she has cases in court, let the courts decide but not you Kalonzo,” said Ms. Zawadi.

“If I was William Ruto, I'd withdraw some of these cabinet nominees to avoid national and international shame. We shall direct our MPs to withhold approval of those who do not meet the Chapter Six threshold of our Constitution," said Musyoka in a press briefing last week.

On Thursday, Nandi Senator Samson Cherargei on Thursday accused his Nairobi counterpart Edwin Sifuna of being against women for opposing the nomination of Aisha Jumwa. 

"Aisha Jumwa is competent enough. If Senator Sifuna has a problem, he should bring it before the appointment committee,” Cherargei said.

Earlier this week, Sifuna termed her nomination a big joke.

"There are people in Kenya Kwanza like Kithure Kindiki who are competent for any government position but Aisha Jumwa is a big joke. She is not competent or suitable for any position,” he said.

The Kenya Ports authority (KPA) is planning to introduce the smart gate technology payment system at the Likoni ferry crossing channel.

 There will also be four lanes to approach the ramps.

Drivers will be required  to have a card that they will load (with) money, allowing them to use the ferry service without stopping along to pay with cash.

The process flow of making ferry toll charges session begins when a user requests a USSD code from their mobile phone.

As soon as the initial request is sent, the USSD gateway sends it on to a USSD application. The application calculates a response to the request and sends it back to the gateway, which prompts the motorists to the category charges of the vehicle and receives a message on their mobile phone screen.

According to the authority this will help in improving services at the ferry hence do away with the traffic usually experienced at the channel.

KPA is currently holding a stakeholders meeting to discuss the planned changes. among the partners attending the meeting are as the Kenya transport association (KTA), Kenya national chamber of commerce, Matatu welfare association, Kenya tour operators’ association, and other key business communities.

The Kenya ferry services (KFS) was dissolved in 2020 with KPA taking over its operations.

https://ommydalla.co.ke/people/item/2059-top-government-officials-to-meet-over-kpa-and-kenya-ferry-merger

Before KFS was set up, ferry services used to be under KPA, which took them from the Kenya Bus Services, which ran the services until 1989 when it decided to pull out.