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,”

Kenyan social media sensation Dr Cassypool has been unveiled as the brand ambassador of Nemis logistics company.

Nemis is a logistics company dealing in clearing and forwarding of cargos , import and export business with roots from Tanzania and operating in several countries like Congo, South Africa, Rwanda and now Kenya.

Cassypool real name Kevin Odhiambo Onyango was unveiled on Tuesday as the company officially opened it's first  Kenyan branch in Mombasa.

"I'm really excited to be associated with this company as their brand ambassador. This company is owned by a youth like me, he has not even been reached the age of 30 so we neet to support any company or initiative owned by a fellow youth " said Cassypool.

Adding" This company is going to create jobs for the youth and I believe it is going to help our youth from Mombasa from drug abuse which has affected many of them due to lack of jobs."

Cassypool called on the youth to support the Kenya Kwanza in job creation and the affordable housing project.

He charged "As you can see the Ruto government is trying very create to create jobs for us as youth especially with the affordable housing project so let us all come out and support the government and avoid the critics."

On his part the company Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O) Edward Mwela said they had been receiving several calls and messages from their customers in Kenya to open a branch.

"We got alot of messages on our social media pages especially from our customers here in Kenya requesting we open a branch. We also have some customers from outside Kenya who use the Mombasa port to import their goods and they have also been making such calls," said Mwela.

Adding " Many people from outside Kenya prefer using the Mombasa port due to it's efficiency, goods don't get delayed at the Mombasa port and so this is also one of the reasons why we chose to open a branch in Kenya and Mombasa first."

Mwela revealed that they are also considering to open another branch in Nairobi to help reach customers in the capital city.

" This is a company for the youths, and as a youth my main objective is to ensure that I create jobs for my fellow youth. Soon we are expecting a major consignment at the port and we will need the youth to help us in delivering the goods to the owners" 

The government will embark on a global marketing strategy to market local parks and reserves .

According to Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua the number of visitors currently being recorded in the parks and reserves is not impressive.

Speaking in Kwale county during the celebrations to mark World Wildlife Day, Mutua announced that the government will now embark on a marketing strategy to help boost the numbers,

"Why is it that our parks and reserves record low number of visitors, whey are we not creative enough and say we create something unique like here in Shimba hills when a visit comes they are also attracted to that unique thing and not just the animals.'' argued Mutua.

Adding "I want to announce here that we will be embarking on a marketing strategy to bring visitors to our parks and reserves.''

Mutua underscored the government’s commitment to wildlife conservation, highlighting the recent collaboration with the private sector in translocating 21 rhinos from various parks to the Loisaba Conservancy. He stated that the government needs collaborative efforts to achieve optimal wildlife conservation.

Kenya boasts an impressive natural heritage with over 25,000 species of wild animals and 7,000 species of plants, making it one of the most biodiverse countries in Africa. The wildlife conservation and management act of 2013 mandates the Kenya wildlife service to conserve wildlife and their habitats wherever they occur.

The CS noted the increasing trend of devolving conservation efforts, with landowners in wildlife rich areas taking on management responsibilities. This decentralised approach aims to involve local communities in the preservation of their natural surroundings.

“The government’s long term strategy in conservation involves sustained collaboration with communities, conservation partners and stakeholders in the tourism industry”, said Dr Mutua. 

On human- wildlife conflict the CS revealed that the government will soon be launching a compensation plans to the victims of the conflict which turned out to be a major debate during the event.

Mutua further directed the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to rehabilitate it's airstrips saying they are currently on a bad state.

"Our airstrips are in a really bad state, no aircraft can actually land them. I want you (KWS) to start the rehabilitation and operationalisation of the airstrips before the beginning of the long rains.''

Key events during the World Wildlife Day celebrations included the launch of the Sable Antelope and Action plan (2022-2031) . Sable population has been facing threats from poaching, snaring, inbreeding and predation.

Sable antelope  population reduced from 265 in 1960 to the current number of 56 individuals. Mitigation measures put in place to raise numbers include enhanced  electric fencing which has been  improved to 14 strands. Construction of water dams alongside  awareness creation are among the measures being undertaken to save the sable.

The Kenya wildlife service is also undertaking restocking  of herbivores including the Sables to reduce predation . During the event the Diani-Chale Marine national reserve was also commissioned. The event was attended by  by the chairman of KWS board of trustees Lt. Gen (rtd) Walter Raria Kaiptanon, Kwale county  Governor Fatuma Achani among other guests.

The wait is over! King Kaka has unleashed his latest musical masterpiece, 'TABASC0 2', in collaboration with Stella Mwangi, Shekina Karen, and Vallerie Muthoni.

This electrifying track is already making waves, captivating audiences with its infectious beats and powerful message.

From the moment the first note hits, 'TABASC0 2' grabs listeners by the ears and refuses to let go.

Produced by the  talented Vinc on the beat, the song is set to be a sure hit. 

With a reputation for pushing boundaries and delivering thought-provoking music, King Kaka has assembled a dream team for 'TABASC0 2'.

Joining forces with Stella Mwangi, the Norwegian-Kenyan rapper known for her fierce energy and global appeal, as well as Shekina Karen and Vallerie Muthoni, rising stars in the Kenyan music scene, King Kaka is poised to deliver a hit that transcends borders.

Accompanying the song is a visually stunning music video directed by the visionary Steve Mugo.

Shot in a classy location with dynamic cinematography, the video is a feast for the eyes, perfectly capturing the energy and spirit of 'TABASC0 2' while showcasing the undeniable chemistry between King Kaka and his collaborators.

Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has lashed out at the national government accusing it of failing to deal with the drug menace at the coast.

Nassir, who led the onslaught against the government, accused it of empty rhetoric even as the drugs issue continues to threaten the future of many youth in the region.

“Until when will we be lied to that the government is going to arrest drug barons and peddlers? You (government) have intelligence, you have the DCI yet you have failed us”

"If you can’t do it, tell me I set up a special county team to deal with the matter,” said Nassir.

The agitated governor was speaking at Lohana Hall in Majengo Saturday afternoon during the launch of issuance of funds to schools for the Leave No Child Behind program that targets to pay capitation of Sh5,000 for some 40,000 day scholars in Mombasa schools.

His sentiments come barely a week after the deputy president Rigathi Gachagua convened the Illicit Alcohol And Drug Eradication Conference in Mombasa.

The DP questioned why some leaders were absent during the conference saying this was an important forum to discuss and issue affecting a large population of the youth in the region.

Gachagua also questioned the silence of coast leaders over the drug menace in the region.

However, Nassir responded saying the government was insincere with the fight saying despite having intelligence and all the resources to arrest barons and peddlers, they had failed in their mandate.

He asked the national government to stop lying to Mombasa people issuing empty threats and warnings, and instead take action and parade the people they suspect to be behind the vice before the public.

‘Don’t come here and threaten us, we want to see action. We must speak the truth, enough of empty rhetoric, we want to see action,” Nassir said.

The governor said that almost every family in Mombasa has been affected by the menace and as such the time of using the agenda to insult coast leaders was over and action must be taken.

"Almost every family in Mombasa has been affected with the drug issue, even I lost my own brother to drugs. We will not continue to allow people speak with no action, don’t say you were not in government in the previous regime, you are now in power, take action,” he said.

Likoni MP Mishi Mboko told off the DP saying that he was politicizing the matter at the expense of Mombasa people who have been adversely affected by the vice.

Mboko said that she has been giving intelligence to officers, but no action has ever been taken alleging that some officers are beneficiaries of proceeds from drugs.

“Your officers know where drugs are sold, every now and then I give your officers intelligence about were drugs are sold but no action is taken”

‘Do you want me to take cuffs and arrest them myself?” she posed.

She expressed disappointment that the government wit trained officers and all the tools at their disposal, have failed to make any major arrests.

"It is a shame that officers trained by taxpayers money and with a lot of intelligence yet they don’t take action,” she said.

“Unless you want to politicize the issue of drugs, if not you have the capacity to zero rate the drugs issue in Kenya,”Mboko said.