Sanlam Kenya PLC and the Sanlam Foundation, in partnership with the Gertrude’s Hospital Foundation (GHF) in Kenya have announced a more than Kshs 5.6 million collaborative partnership to alleviate the plight of physically challenged children in Kenya.

This partnership has been enabled by the Allianz Group Social Impact Fund, an integral part of the group’s Corporate Citizenship Strategy to support next generations and persons with disabilities to overcome systematic social risks.

The partnership, which targets more than 300 children, will focus on enhancing social and communication skills, promoting social inclusion, and improving the functional abilities of children with disabilities in Kenya.

By providing such skills and promoting social inclusion, the partnership aims to equip children with disabilities with the tools necessary to prepare them to navigate the local job market confidently in future.

Speaking at the launch of the “Enabling Children with Disabilities for a Brighter Tomorrow project”, Sanlam Kenya PLC Group Chief Executive Officer, Dr Nyamemba Patrick Tumbo, said the initiative will integrate tailored occupational therapy interventions, sports and art activities for the inaugural cohort of more than 50 children, enhancing their functional abilities, independence, and overall quality of life.

“Ultimately, the programme aims to foster social inclusion and acceptance, positioning children with disabilities to participate in educational and vocational opportunities, thus enhancing their employability prospects,” Dr Tumbo said.

During the launch event, Ms Nozizwe Vundla, Head of the Sanlam Foundation, said the Foundation’s mandate is to be the custodian of Sanlam’s legitimacy as a responsible corporate citizen in Kenya and across Africa.

“To create shared value in Africa, the Sanlam Foundation drives increased positive social impact and helps protect Sanlam’s reputation as a trusted, relevant organisation that is part of the fabric of the societies within which the Group operates,” Ms Vundla said.

She added: “In Kenya, we want to be at the forefront of transformation in the financial sector and support communities to live with confidence through empowerment initiatives like the Gertrude Hospital Foundation/Sanlam Enabling Children with Disabilities for a Brighter Tomorrow project.”

Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital CEO, Dr. Robert Nyarango, reiterated that the Gertrude’s Hospital Foundation aims to enhance the independence and economic potential of children with disabilities in Kenya by developing their social and functional skills.

He expressed regret that, in Kenya, persons with disabilities (PWDs) face significant barriers to accessing formal employment despite existing incentives to encourage more inclusion.

Said Dr Nyarango: “The Gertrude’s Hospital Foundation’s paediatric health intervention programs deliver diagnostic, treatment and care services at no cost, particularly to children in hard-to-reach areas of Kenya. Gertrude’s Hospital Foundation’s mission is to improve access to quality healthcare services for disadvantaged children in Kenya and Eastern Africa through the integration of care, research, education, and technology."

Adding "The Foundation believes that expanding access to quality healthcare can significantly enhance the developmental prospects of every child.”

The National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse (NACADA) and other stakeholders involved in the war on drug abuse have been challenged to step up efforts in the war.

According to Mombasa youth leader, Evans Momanyi many youths in the country especially at the Coast are still suffering from the menace.

"The efforts put towards fighting this vice in our society are still not enough, we are everyday seeing more youths getting into drugs" said Momanyi.

Adding " It is high time all stakeholders come together and step up the efforts or else we will still be complaining everyday that our youth are destroying their future. we also need to address the source of these drugs."

Momanyi called for more civic education urging parents to also take the responsibility of good upbringing to their children.

"As parents we must be readyy to talk to our children. our county governments must also initiate programs that are geared towards preventing this vice,we will have nowhere to go if we as a society if we do not address this ." he charged.

Early this year during  the Illicit Alcohol And Drug Eradication Conference in Mombasa, Nacada Coast regional manager George Karisa said that, according to their research, drug use starts at a young age of 10 years.

Karisa revealed that the Coast region has really been affected and that at least 13,000 people use heroin adding that 29.3 per cent of people are using different drugs, including alcohol.

According to statistics from NACADA Mombasa leads in hard drugs and substance usage, bhang and prescription drugs that people are using without doctors advice.

At least 18,000 people are using injectable drug users.

Hundreds of passengers have been stranded at Kenya's main airport as workers strike in protest at a planned takeover by an Indian business group, Adani

Among those caught up in the middle of the strike at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport is Mombasa Senator Mohammed Faki.

The Senator was accompanying his relative to Mumbai, India for medical check up.

"I was traveling to Mumbai to take my relative for a heart check up, we were to travel with the 6am flight but we are still stranded here" said faki.

Adding" The sad thing is that no any government official even the minister has come here to try and solve the issue and assure us about our travels. All the cafeterias have closed in solidarity with the workers, so we have not even eaten."

The Senator called on the government to listen and solve the grievances raised by the airport workers.

"If they will not find a solution then let the government do away the deal with Adani" argued Faki.

Workers at the airport launched a "go-slow" on Wednesday mid-night where staff deliberately work slowly to cause disruption - in a stand against proposals to lease JKIA to the Adani group for 30 years.

The strike was also experienced in other areas like Mombasa and Kisumu.

Autochek Kenya, the leading automotive technology company transforming the automotive experience for African consumers, is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Turaco Insurance Agency Kenya (T/A Turaco), the innovative insurance company dedicated to providing affordable and tech-enabled insurance solutions.

This collaboration aims to offer Autochek’s clients comprehensive motor insurance with flexible monthly payments, making the insurance cost for car owners in Kenya significantly more attainable.

With the rising need for flexible insurance options, Autochek Kenya and Turaco combine their strengths to provide an unparalleled insurance solution tailored to the diverse needs of vehicle owners in Kenya.

The car financing market in Kenya has seen substantial growth, with a 15% annual increase in vehicle loans and a 10% rise in vehicle imports.

This partnership between Autochek and Turaco directly responds to this market demand by offering a bundled service that integrates vehicle financing, insurance, tracking, and maintenance, all under one digital platform.

The partnership aims to make vehicle insurance more affordable and manageable for Autochek's customers by offering monthly payment plans instead of traditional annual premiums.

This approach allows car owners to better manage their expenses without sacrificing the extensive coverage that comprehensive insurance provides.

The monthly payment option is a significant advantage, ensuring affordability and continuous coverage for vehicle owners.

While inking the deal, Autochek’s Country Manager, Henry Mbugua expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Turaco to offer our clients an innovative insurance solution that aligns with their financial needs. This partnership underscores our commitment to enhancing the vehicle ownership experience by providing comprehensive and affordable services while ensuring we maintain competitive prices.”

Ted Pantone, CEO of Turaco, added:, “At Turaco, we're transforming the insurance industry by making it accessible and attainable for everyone. Our vision is powered by partnerships with like-minded companies like Autochek, who are equally committed to using technology to create seamless customer experiences. By combining our tech-driven approach with flexible monthly installments, we empower Autochek to offer their customers top-tier insurance access and an exceptional experience.”

The insurance offering will be seamlessly integrated into Autochek’s digital platform, allowing clients to access and manage their insurance policies effortlessly alongside their vehicle transactions.

Autochek and Turaco integrated their systems to ensure that customers have an end-to-end digital journey. This tech-driven approach simplifies the process of managing vehicle insurance and ensures that customers have instant access to all their vehicle-related needs in one place.

This partnership is a testament to Autochek's commitment to delivering a holistic automotive experience, where customers can access financing, insurance, and maintenance services all under one roof.

By integrating these services, Autochek is revolutionizing how car owners manage their vehicles, ensuring that every aspect of ownership is both convenient and affordable.

About Autochek Kenya

Autochek is an automotive technology development company that is building the infrastructure to make car ownership more accessible and affordable in Africa.

With active operations in 9 countries across East, West, South, and North Africa, a partner-led retail footprint in over 2,000 dealers and workshop locations, and more than 70 banking partners, Autochek is improving Africa’s automotive finance value proposition by bringing all relevant stakeholders together to enable easier access to more financing options as a catalyst for growth in Africa’s automotive industry.

Turaco is a full-stack, embedded insurance company transforming insurance financing in emerging markets with simple and affordable health and life insurance for low-income earners.

Founded in 2019, Turaco is present in Kenya, Uganda, Ghana and Nigeria.

Turaco partners with leading mobile network operators (MNOs), technology companies, and financing institutions to distribute unique insurance products for their customers.

With Turaco, individuals can secure insurance coverage with premiums starting as low as $1 per month.

Using API integrations with their partners, and AI to drive efficiency.

Turaco activates policies, automates payments, and processes claims in a fraction of the time it takes traditional insurance companies.

Popular Mombasa actress Bwire Ndubi will be laid to rest on September 20th.

She died on Thursday. while undergoing treatment in Turkey, barely a month after she appealed for financial help to continue with her treatment.

According to a family source the late Bwire will be buried at her rural home  in Matungu, Mumias, Kakamega county.

Her body expected in the country on Sunday morning.

Bwire had battled metastatic breast cancer for about two years before passing away.

In 2022, she went public about her breast cancer diagnosis in an interview with entertainment journalist, Cheptoek Boyo.

A new premium lounge has been launched at the Moi International Airport (Mombasa).

Located at the international depature lounge terminal 1, the Bosphorous Lounge covering an area of 10,000 feet with a capacity of 150 persons aims to provide comfort, luxury and delightful travel experience.

The interior reflects the Coast culture with unique features like artificial palm trees. The lounge is run by Turkish investor Cemal Ulman.

The official launch was graced by the Turkey ambassador to Kenya Subutay Yuksei.

Speaking during the launch ambassador Yuksei said the opening of the lounge marks a new chapter in partnership between Kenya and Turkey especially in trade and tourism.

"I hope that the opening of this lounge will pave way for the restarting of direct flights from Turkey to Mombasa" said Yuksei.

Adding" Mombasa is a very important destination to many tourists and travellers, as Turkey we are keen to streghtening our bilateral ties with Kenya especially in trade and tourism."

On his part the Director of Bosphorous lounge, Cemal Ulman applauded the local leadership and management of the Kenya Airports Authority for their support.

" We chose Mombasa because this is a gateway to many travellers. What travellers are looking for is such facilities, it is not just about the flying but the whole experiemnce right from the airport" said Ulma.

Adding" Business and First Class passengers will now have the chance and opportunity to check it and the lounge and order their food and drink from our live kitchen. For other walk in passengers they will be paying for our services"

Changamwe Mp Omar Mwinyi called on the government to speed up the process of implementing the open sky policy to help boost tourism at the Coast.

" I will never stop telling the government to implement the open sky policy, this is fo our benefit as the people of the Coast. When you open the skies you open the door of  opportunities" said Omar.

Adding" To our Coastal counties please come together and market the destination, dont wait for the government or privte sector to do it for you."

Amenities include a variety of lounge seating, high-speed WiFi, charging stations, dedicated workspaces, massage lounge, laundry and showers.

Guests can also indulge in the lounge’s gourmet offerings with a diverse menu featuring favourite Kenyan flavours and international cuisines prepared by skilled chefs, ensuring culinary options cater to every palate.

Twenty-four-year-old Kepher Okoth Ooko from Kanga, Migori County, is the grand winner of KES 5 million in the “Shine Kenya Shinda Mamilii Kama Bingwa” promotion.

Okoth, who is a motorcycle mechanic based at Kanga Junction in Migori county, won the amount after participating in the campaign by purchasing KES 20 data bundles, which earned him an entry into the draw.

In addition to the KES 5 million, he also received KES 1 million from the Safaricom Foundation to support a community project of his choice in his home area.

Speaking during the award ceremony at Safaricom headquarters in Nairobi, the joyous father of two, who was accompanied by his wife Zuhura Akoth expressed his disbelief, saying he is still in shock. Okoth further shared that he plans to use some of the money to open his own motorcycle repair garage, purchase a piece of land, build a house, and buy a 14-seater matatu for a transport business. He also intends to support his wife by helping her start a business.

“I am still in disbelief since I received the call from Safaricom that I had won KES 5 million. This is a miracle and a huge blessing for me and my entire family. I never imagined that someone like me, would ever become a millionaire. I plan to start a garage, build a house, buy a 14-seater matatu, and support my wife, who has been a pillar in my life. To Safaricom, thank you so much for the incredible work you are doing, transforming the lives of many Kenyans,” said Kepher Okoth.

With the additional KES 1 million from the Safaricom Foundation meant to support a community project, Okoth chose to renovate and furnish three classrooms and connect water in his former primary school, Kitere Primary School.

This promotion was launched in June by Safaricom to reward, celebrate and empower its customers with daily and weekly cash prizes, including data bundles. It was also meant to support key community projects chosen by winners.

Each of the 30 weekly millionaires received an additional KES 250,000 to support a community project of their choice. This was to ensure that the benefits of this promotion extend beyond individual winners to positively impact wider communities creating a ripple effect of positive change.

The community projects are being actualised through the Safaricom Ndoto Zetu Uwezo Wetu program which supports various community initiatives that have a lasting impact on people's lives. Whether it’s building classrooms, providing clean water, or supporting healthcare initiatives.

“Today, we not only celebrate our 31^st millionaires, but also the 31 community projects that will benefit thousands of Kenyans.  When we began this campaign, we had our customers and the community in mind, aiming to celebrate and empower them by transforming their lives across the country. We believe that true success is shared success, and by supporting community initiatives, we can create a ripple effect of positive change,” said Peter Ndegwa, Safaricom Plc CEO.

In addition to the millionaires, the campaign also rewarded customers with M-PESA cashbacks totalling KES 31.5 million, daily prizes that included airtime for 220,000 customers, data bundles for another 200,400 customers, SMS bundles for more than 301,000 customers, and digital content for over 1.2 million customers.

Popular Sultana actress Bwire Ndubi is dead.

Ndubi died today (Thursday) morning at Maslak Acibadem hospital in Turkey where she was receiving cancer treatment.

"It is with a heavy heart and humble acceptance of God's will that we announce Winfred Bwire Ndubi lost her battle to cancer on 5th September 2024 while undergoing treatment in Turkey," reads a statement from family.

The late Ndubi had travelled back to Turkey for treatment last week after developing some complications from her previous treatment.

In her last video appealing for help, which was shared on her social media pages on August 14, the actress revealed she was experiencing some side effects from her treatment.

"You wouldn't believe it—it has over 41 side effects, and you never know which one will hit. You experience some of them at different times, and it keeps changing," she narrated.

Friends and relatives held a fundraiser in Mombasa to raise the ksh 5 million needed for her to get back to Turkey for further treatment.

Ndubi who played 'Dida' in Sultana shared her struggle with breast cancer with fans in 2022.

Tanqueray has announced the renewal of its support of the Nairobi Polo Club’s competition calendar as the experience partner.

This renewed partnership underscores Tanqueray’s dedication to supporting polo and celebrating the magnificence and heritage that defines both polo and the brand’s ethos.

“We are happy to continue our partnership with Nairobi Polo Club as the sport embodies the very essence of magnificence that we strive for,” said Scaver Saitaga, Brand Manager at Tanqueray.

Adding “This partnership provides us with a platform to connect with both our loyal consumers and new audiences, as we showcase our brand values in a dynamic atmosphere. Polo offers our consumers an ideal setting to enjoy an exhilarating afternoon accompanied by our diverse range”.

Nairobi Polo club will be hosting the 10 Goal International Tournament between the 6th and 8th of September.

This will be followed by the 6 Goal International that will take place between the 13th and 15th of the September.

The two weekends will feature an exciting competition line – up that will showcase the pinnacle of skill and athleticism in the sport.

The tournaments at the Nairobi Polo club are a highlight of the season’s calendar providing an opportunity to celebrate style, elegance and the vibrant social scene that surrounds the sport.

The game of polo transcends itself and provides an immersive experience that allows one to enjoy the best of Kenyan culture and fashion.

The previous polo season concluded in spectacular fashion with Tanqueray collaborating with local fashion designers such as Afrostreet Kollections and NCNairobi to showcase high fashion at the Soldiers’ Salute and Chairman’s Cup tournaments.