Ommy Dallah
President Ruto Holds Talks With President Yoon Suk Yeol of Korea On The Sidelines Of The Korea-Africa Summit
Kenya and South Korea have signed a $485 million (KSh63 billion) concessional development funding on the sidelines of the Korea-Africa Summit.
This includes $238 million (KSh30 billion) for the implementation of the Konza Digital Media City Project.
President William Ruto said the project will boost the country's digital ecosystem, a key government initiative aimed at expanding digital and creative economy opportunities for the young people of Kenya, at the Konza Technopolis.
"This project will provide an excellent digital media and entertainment ecosystem for research, training and the propagation of new technologies,” he said.
He commended Korea for the Economic Innovation Partnership Programme, which further supports Konza Technopolis.
He made the remarks on Tuesday during talks with President Yoon Suk Yeol of Korea on the sidelines of the Korea-Africa Summit at the Korea International Exhibition Centre in Goyang, on the outskirts of Seoul.
President Ruto thanked President Yoon for Korea's support in establishing the Kenya Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KENYA-AIST), modelled after the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, an institution pivotal in Korea’s economic transformation.
He said Kenya-AIST is nearing completion and will be unveiled later this year. He invited President Yoon to Kenya during the official opening of the institute.
“I take this opportunity to invite Your Excellency to join us during the opening ceremony. We are confident that this institution will be a prominent showcase of Africa-Korea scientific and technological collaboration,” he added.
President Ruto cited the development of Bus Rapid Transit Line 5, the Nairobi ITS, the dualing of the 78km Machakos Junction-Emali Road, water supply and sanitation for the Konza Technopolis and the Vaccine Production Project as some of the ongoing collaborative projects between Kenya and Korea.
During the meeting, President Ruto implored President Yoon to fast-track the implementation of the Kenya-Korea Bilateral Labour Agreement.
“I assure you that my government has put measures in place to ensure that any Kenyan employed in Korea complies with Korean laws and terms of engagement, including returning home at the expiry of their employment contracts,” he added.
President Ruto said Kenya is keen on enhancing trade relations with Korea to attain balanced trade between the two friendly nations.
“Although the balance of trade currently favours Korea, we have an opportunity to work together to reduce this imbalance,” he stated.
He outlined other areas of cooperation Kenya is pursuing with Korea, including maritime development, green industrialisation and manufacturing, among others.
He noted that Kenya seeks Korea's support in developing the semi-conductor industry through technology partnerships, infrastructure development and capacity building.
“Kenya aspires to be a manufacturing and technology leader on the African continent. We invite Korean expertise to help meet our energy demands, including expanding our renewable power mix to incorporate nuclear energy,” he said.
On his part, President Yoon committed to enhancing the relations between Kenya and Korea for the mutual benefit of the citizens of both nations.
He said that Korea is ready to support Kenya’s ambitious transformation agenda in technology, infrastructure development, and water and dam programmes.
CJ Koome Launches The First Autonomous Alternative Justice Systems Centre In Africa
Chief Justice Martha Koome has today launched the first autonomous Alternative Justice Systems Centre in Africa at Imani Mall in Nakuru County.
The Centre is a collaboration of the Nakuru Christian Leaders Platform, the Nakuru County Government and the Judiciary.
Speaking during the Launch, the CJ said that the AJS Centre was the first of its kind in the entire region and an innovation that will be immensely useful to the communities in Nakuru County.
“By establishing this Centre, you are living the biblical calling to stand firm and true as apostles of justice. You are calling attention on the people to become champions of justice by exercising their dispute resolution agency, thereby enhancing peace and cohesion among our people and within our communities”. Said the CJ
CJ Koome noted that the establishment of the centre was a testament to the success of the Social Transformation through Access to Justice blueprint.
This, she noted, is a recognition that mediation and reconciliation processes, including those conducted within the alternative justice mechanisms, are central for the resolution of disputes given that they are collaborative processes that foster long-term relationships.
“This AJS Centre will contribute to the creation of a just social order, prioritise reconciliation and foster peaceful co-existence in our communities”. Said Justice Koome
Speaking during the same event, Visiting Deputy Chief Justice of Uganda, Justice Richard Buteera, lauded Kenya for promoting AJS and making key milestones towards its implementation.
He observed that both the Constitutions of Kenya and Uganda highlight the need for justice to take into account the views, values and feelings of the people.
“This House of Reconciliation is an expression of those articles of Constitution. When I go back, I will talk to the church leaders in Uganda to emulate you”. Said Justice Buteera
The Deputy Governor of Nakuru, David Kones, said that the County Government of Nakuru is committed to working with the Judiciary in setting aside land in every Sub-County for construction of courts in a bid to bring justice closer to the people.
“We have already donated land in Solai and Olenguruone for court construction and we will do so in each and every Sub-County” Said the Deputy Governor
Apostle John Kimani, one of the church leaders behind the project, noted that sometimes court cases leave people with animosity, bitterness and feelings of revenge.
“It is for this reason that the church has embraced the Centre as a ministry of reconciliation and peace building and services will be offered free of charge.” Said Apostle Kimani.
Kenya's Biggest Dancing Competition Brings Mombasa To A Standtill
Red Bull Dance Your Style made a stop in Mombasa at the Mama Ngina Waterfront over the past weekend as part of its nationwide tour.
The event stirred the usually quiet town, welcoming a fair share of attention and attendance from the dance community and fanatics.
The signature battle sessions saw Mohammed Mkuta emerge the winner and Bill Wamala take first runner-up position.
Mohammed Mkuta shares, “I'm thrilled to have won today and gained support from the majority of the fans. This victory has boosted my momentum to clinch the championship at the national finals.”
Adding, “Red Bull Dance Your Style has been a game-changer, constantly rooting for the dance community in Mombasa. With this competition held every year, dancers take their time to prepare and eventually show up and show out.”
Red Bull Dance Your Style is also taking the competition a notch higher by tapping into the revolutionary dance movement on TikTok.
The competition is calling out dancers across Kenya to showcase their moves on their accounts with a 30-second video, tagging @RedBullKenya and including the hashtag #RedBullDanceYourStyle on their posts.
The top two TikTok videos with the most engagement will get a chance to participate in the national finals.
The next stops for Red Bull Dance Your Style is the USIU qualifier in Nairobi, the official Nairobi competition and the grand finals in Nairobi that will bring all the top two winners from every qualifier for the ultimate battle.
The winner from the grand finals will represent Kenya at the world finals happening in Mumbai, India for the world finals.
Red Bull Dance Your Style is a global competition with 51 counties participating.
Kenya’s ultimate champ will win an all-expense paid trip to India for the World Finals this November.
The competition has no judges because the crowd decides who wins by voting for their favorite dancers by holding up blue or red placards to choose a winner, after each battle. Dancers are expected to bring their A Game - creativity, freestyle, and musical skills in the competition that allows all urban dance styles except for break dancing.
The DJ plays unpredictable music, and the dancers will have to adapt, dance their style and impress the crowd. In other words, YOU decide the champion, who guarantees a place in the world final.
Tech Meets Tradition
By Sam Odhiambo
In our daily lives, few bonds are as enduring and essential as the care and dedication of mothers.
From nurturing spirits to tireless guardians of hearth and home, mothers have long borne the weight of responsibility with grace and resilience.
Yet, amid the ebb and flow of modernity, their roles have evolved, transcending traditional boundaries to embrace new horizons of possibility and empowerment.
Today, as we traverse the web of challenges, one issue stands out starkly against the backdrop of progress—the prolonged drying times for laundry, a task that often falls squarely on mothers' shoulders.
It's a mundane yet profound challenge that echoes through history, where the image of a mother toiling over laundry embodies the silent sacrifices and steadfast resolve that define motherhood.
Every weekend, on the streets of Nairobi and across the country, within the balconies of towering buildings, one will not fail to notice the beautifully displayed clothes on the clotheslines to dry.
Most Nairobians still do their laundry the traditional way, washing clothes with their hands and letting them dry on their own.
The recent heavy rains that hit Nairobi and the entire country caused limited sunshine, significantly affecting our laundry.
Clothes now take days or even a week to dry on their own, making it challenging for those who wash all their clothes intending to use them soon, especially now that schools are open.
As the world marked the global Mother’s Day one thing kept me thinking: How can the evolution and integration of Artificial intelligence (AI) within the laundry industry empower our mothers? Doing laundry has undoubtedly evolved, and a typical washing machine, as we know it, does more than what we see on the surface.
Many washing machine manufacturers, such as Samsung, have demonstrated innovation by creating AI-equipped washing machines with mothers in mind.
These technological marvels not only speed up the laundry process but also signify a significant change in societal awareness, recognising and catering to the needs of caregivers with precision and compassion.
As we celebrate mothers' contributions to our daily lives, let us not overlook the significance of cycles, these technological advancements symbolise a collective understanding—a recognition that the burdens once shouldered by mothers alone are now shared responsibilities woven into the fabric of progress and empathy.
For instance, Samsung Electronics has remained at the forefront of providing mothers and households with the latest washing machines that use AI to make laundry easier.
The brand has a range of artificial intelligence-enabled AI EcoBubble™ fully automatic washing machines for an effortless laundry experience and larger capacity models to cater for mothers with large families or large washing loads.
In this age of technological progress, let us champion the cause of mothers everywhere through words and actions that resonate with appreciation and understanding.
Let us embrace innovation as a tool for liberation, freeing mothers from the shackles of time-consuming chores and empowering them to pursue their passions and dreams.
The writer is the Head of the Consumer Electronic Division, Kenya, Samsung Electronics East Africa.
Ministry Of Health Pledges Enhanced Menstrual Health On Global Menstrual Hygiene Day
Today, as Menstrual Hygiene Day is commemorated globally, the Ministry of Health in Kenya has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to enhancing menstrual health and hygiene nationwide.
This year’s theme, "Making Kenya Period-Friendly," underscores the imperative of ensuring every woman and girl can manage menstruation with dignity and safety.
According to Mary Muthoni Muriuki, Principal Secretary of the state department of Public Health and Professional Standards in the Ministry of Health, challenges persist, necessitating sustained support and improvement efforts.
Kenya launched its Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) Policy in May 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, marking significant progress in integrating MHM into various government initiatives.
Research conducted in 2016 by the Ministry of Health highlights significant challenges faced by Kenyan girls and women regarding menstrual health and hygiene.
Key findings include limited access to menstrual hygiene products, which has been associated with risky sexual behavior and hindered education, particularly due to poor Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) conditions in schools.
"We have made significant strides in providing accurate information on menstruation and promoting affordable access to quality menstrual products and sanitation facilities," stated Muthoni.
"Sustainable menstrual waste management practices have been implemented through initiatives such as the 'Epuka Uchafu Campaign,'" she added.
Crucial partnerships with organizations like USAID, Amref, and UNICEF have supported county-level implementation of the MHM policy.
"We issue a call to action to organizations and implementers to support county-level implementation of the MHM Policy and advocate for its full implementation by the National Government," Muthoni emphasized.
"Opportunities for partnership and collaboration abound, aimed at strengthening the market base for MHM products and services," she continued.
National Housing Corporation Unveils New Logo, Strategic Plan As It Celebrates 70th Anniversary
The National Housing Corporation (NHC) has unveiled a new logo and a new Five-year strategic plan as part of celebrations to commemorate its 70 years of building homes for Kenyans through innovative housing solutions.
At a colourful event attended by Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome , Chief of Staff & Head of Public Service Mr. Felix Koskei, other government officials, corporate leaders, and key partners in the construction industry, the Corporation also unveiled its FY2023/2027 Strategic Plan covering five key result areas.
During the event, Koskei said the Government is committed to expanding the capacity of the NHC to meet the growing demand for affordable housing.
“To achieve this, we are encouraging public-private partnerships to leverage additional resources and expertise. We are also reviewing and updating policies to create a more conducive environment for housing development. Our aim is to ensure that every citizen has access to safe, affordable, and decent housing,” he said.
He further said that the Kenya Kwanza government is committed to ensuring delivery of highquality services to Kenyans.
“Service delivery is the cornerstone of public trust and confidence in government institutions. We have implemented several reforms aimed at improving efficiency, accessibility, and responsiveness in our service delivery mechanisms,” he said.
“We have embraced technology to streamline processes, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks, and enhance transparency. The introduction of e-government platforms has significantly cut down waiting times and improved the accessibility of public services,” he added.
He called on public servants to adhere to the highest ethical standards, warning that those found engaging in corrupt practices will face severe consequences.
“Corruption remains one of the most significant challenges we face in our quest to provide effective public service. It undermines trust, distorts our development priorities, and wastes precious resources. Our administration is committed to a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption. Through the eCitizen, we are fostering a culture of accountability and integrity within the public service,” he said.
Speaking at the event, CS Wahome congratulated the Corporation for its role in providing housing for Kenyans for the last 70 years.
“For 70 years, the National Housing Corporation has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of housing in Kenya. From providing housing solutions to fostering sustainable urban development, the Corporation has been a beacon of hope for countless Kenyans aspiring to own decent homes,” she said.
She added: “Through this rebranding initiative, the Corporation seeks to modernize its operations, enhance its service delivery, and build stronger partnerships with stakeholders across the public and private sectors.”
The Corporation’s Strategic Plan is anchored on five major pillars: Housing, Financial, Estate Management, Research & Innovation, and Corporate Sustainability. Of the one million affordable housing units the Government plans to build by the end of the financial year 2027/2028, the Corporation plans to build more than 100,000 units.
“The Government plans to construct one million housing units by the end of the financial year 2027/2028.
Of this, the Corporation will construct 110,000 housing units: 100,000 units under the Affordable Housing Programme, 5,000 units under the commercial band, and a further 5,000 as student hostel rooms,” she said.
Regarding the research and innovation pillar, the Corporation is embracing new building technologies that are more environmentally friendly and cost-effective in its projects.
“As we embrace the digital age, it is imperative that we stay at the forefront of technological advancements. Our plan outlines specific initiatives and investments in a housing resource centre, which will be the hub of information on housing matters for scholars and researchers. This will not only keep us competitive but also pave the way for pioneering solutions,” said CS Wahome.
The NHC Managing Director & CEO,S. David Mathu, MBS, said that the Corporation is committed to helping the Government achieve 250,000 housing units per year under the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda.
“We are actively involved in affordable housing projects in four counties: Nyandarua, Embu, Kirinyaga, and Homa Bay. The Corporation has also broken ground in Meru, Nakuru, Kericho, Kakamega, Uasin Gishu, Mombasa, Kisumu, Machakos, and Taita,” he said.
The MD said that the Corporation is moving to recover grabbed, saying this has impeded the delivery of the housing agenda.
“Under the Estate Management key result area, the Corporation will, in the next five years, secure and conserve all its land against grabbers, offer suitable and conducive housing units, redevelop the old schemes built in the 70s and 80s, and settle squatters where necessary,” he said.
He added: “Moreover, sustainability is not just an aspiration; it is a responsibility we owe to the environment and future generations. The Plan includes initiatives that prioritize environmentally friendly construction practices, energy efficiency, and the incorporation of green spaces into our urban developments.”
NHC Board Chair Yusuf Chanzu said under the Financial Pillar, the Corporation will establish a sustainable financing model, collaborate with individuals and institutions, and set up a financial institution to deliver low-cost housing to Kenyans.
“This will entail mobilizing financial resources to the tune of Sh353.9 billion from both internal and external sources and growing the annual operating profits by 540% by the year 2028. Our EPS Factory has also been a focal point under the Resource Mobilization and Financial Management Pillar, aiming to ensure the panels' plant contributes to the Corporation’s resources,” said Hon. Chanzu.
Africa Freedom Day - Upholding Digital Rights In Africa
Bloggers of Zambia and Bloggers Association of Kenya (BAKE) joins fellow Africans across the continent in commemorating Africa Freedom Day, a momentous occasion that celebrates the hard-fought struggles for independence, democracy, and human rights in Africa.
As we mark this important day, we are reminded of the fundamental principles of freedom, equality, and justice that underpin our collective aspirations for a better, more prosperous Africa.
At the core of Africa Freedom Day is the recognition of the inherent dignity and rights of all Africans, including the right to freedom of expression, access to information, and privacy. In today's digital age, these rights are more relevant and essential than ever before, as they shape our ability to participate fully in the digital sphere, exercise our democratic freedoms, and hold those in power accountable.
However, despite the progress made in advancing digital rights across Africa, significant challenges persist, threatening to undermine the principles of freedom and democracy that we hold dear. From internet shutdowns and censorship to arbitrary arrests and harassment of online activists, we continue to witness violations of digital rights that stifle dissent, silence critical voices, and erode the foundations of democracy and good governance.
As bloggers and digital rights advocates, we stand in solidarity with our fellow Africans across the continent in demanding the protection and promotion of digital rights. We call upon African governments to uphold their commitments to international human rights standards, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, by ensuring:
- Freedom of Expression: We urge governments to respect and protect the right to freedom of expression both online and offline, allowing individuals to express their opinions, share information, and engage in public discourse without fear of censorship or reprisal.
- Access to Information: We call for the removal of barriers to access to information, including restrictions on internet access, content blocking, and the criminalization of online speech. Access to information is a cornerstone of democracy and development, empowering citizens to make informed decisions and participate meaningfully in civic life.
- Privacy and Data Protection: We advocate for robust data protection laws and mechanisms to safeguard individuals' privacy rights and prevent unauthorized surveillance and data breaches. Privacy is a fundamental human right that must be respected and protected in the digital age.
- Digital Inclusion: We emphasize the importance of bridging the digital divide and ensuring universal access to the internet and digital technologies for all Africans, particularly marginalized and underserved communities. Digital inclusion is essential for promoting economic opportunities, social equity, and sustainable development across the continent.
- Accountability and Transparency: We call for greater transparency and accountability in the governance of digital technologies, including the regulation of social media platforms, online content moderation, and surveillance practices. Governments must ensure that regulatory frameworks are transparent, inclusive, and subject to democratic oversight.
On this Africa Freedom Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to defending and promoting digital rights as essential components of freedom, democracy, and human dignity in Africa. Together, let us strive to build a continent where the digital space is a vibrant, inclusive, and safe environment for all Africans to exercise their rights and freedoms without fear or discrimination.
Fast Rising Kenyan Singer Trevor Fortel Releases New Single 'Energy'
Kenyan hip-hop sensation Trevor Fortel is set to release his highly anticipated new single, "Energy," today. Directed by the acclaimed Kash Ndungu and produced by the talented Nzau, "Energy" promises to be a powerful anthem of resilience and self-empowerment.
"Energy" is a compelling narrative of Trevor's journey to overcome obstacles and claim his rightful place as a king in his own right.
The music video captures Trevor's struggle to reclaim his "energy" by taking a crown from a dependent king and forging his own path.
This visual metaphor speaks to the universal experience of overcoming challenges and emerging stronger.
About Trevor Fortel:
Trevor Fortel, a gifted artist from Kenya, discovered his passion for music early on while growing up in the Western region of the country.
Immersed in hip-hop, he began exploring melodies and eventually embraced rapping as a member of the music group Fotel.
His music reflects his rich life experiences, deep-rooted faith, and unwavering pursuit of excellence. Known for his thought-provoking verses, witty punchlines, and memorable one-liners, Trevor's lyrical prowess leaves a lasting impact on listeners.
In 2021, Trevor debuted with the EP "Marking Scheme: An Introduction," showcasing his diverse musical style and dedication to excellence.
He is currently working on music videos for his sophomore project "Marking Scheme II: Money Talks," including the tracks "Numbers," "Kesho," "Kazi," and "Energy." Guided by the philosophy "The Work Speaks," Trevor aims to create music that touches the soul and stimulates the mind.
Director Kash Ndungu brings a dynamic and visually captivating approach to the "Energy" music video, while Producer Nzau crafts a soundscape that perfectly complements Trevor's powerful lyrics.
Release Details:
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Song Title: Energy
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Artist: Trevor Fortel
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Director: Kash Ndungu
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Producer: Nzau
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Release Date: May 24, 2024
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Available on: All major streaming platforms
Young Jonn Teams Up With Ya Levis, Sean Paul And Kizz Daniel On Debut Album 'Jiggy Forever'
Following the release of hit singles like “Aquafina” and “Go Hard,” which dominated charts in East Africa, Chocolate City’s recording artist and producer, Young Jonn, is gearing up to drop his highly-anticipated debut album, "Jiggy Forever."
He's also set to tour East Africa, marking his first tour of the region and aiming to foster collaborations between the Afrobeats genre and top talents from East Africa.
The album, consisting of 16 tracks, takes listeners on a journey across various physical, emotional, and sonic landscapes. Young Jonn collaborates with Jamaican rapper Sean Paul on “Hold On,” delving into themes of love and longing in the Caribbean Islands.
He also teams up with Zlatan on tracks like “50 Million” and “Full My Tank,” celebrating financial success in Lagos, Nigeria, and joins forces with Don Jazzy.
French-based Congolese sensation Ya Levis joins him on “Maya Maya,” a stylistic track detailing a whirlwind romance.
The album also features the amapiano-themed love anthem "Aquafina," which amassed 30 million streams and 1 million views on YouTube, and "Sharpally," which has garnered over 30 million streams since its release. Additionally, the confidence anthem “Big Big Things'' features Seyi Vibes and Kizz Daniel.
“This Album is really special to me. I feel like most people don’t really know who I am. They just have an idea,” Young Jonn says. “But this project uncovers the real me. Each track is like a snapshot of life's roller coaster, touching on love, hustle, and finding my way in a world that sometimes feels upside down.”
Young Jonn’s journey from producer to music artist began in 2021, after signing with Nigeria's Chocolate City Music. He released his first project, "Love Is Not Enough Vol. 1," which received critical acclaim and featured a remix of his single "Dada" with Davido. This was followed by "Love Is Not Enough Vol. 2."
Expected to be his best work yet, "Jiggy Forever" adds to Young Jonn's track record of quality projects, as seen in his first two EPs, "Love is Not Enough 1 & 2."
Stanbic Bank Kenya And Mida Advisors To Partner With Acorn Holdings In $ 700 Million Deal For Green Student Housing
Stanbic Bank and MiDA Advisors, will be partnering with Acorn Holdings, an established real estate developer, to mobilise $700 million in long-term blended finance commitments for green, affordable student housing in Kenya.
Upon approval, the transaction will comprise a $180 million commitment from the United States Development Finance Corporation (DFC) that will secure over $380 million in equivalent KES financing arranged jointly by Stanbic Bank Kenya and MiDA Advisors, and $315 million in equivalent KES financing from Kenyan capital markets, for a total blended financing of $700 million over an 18-year timeframe.
Commenting on the transaction, Dr Joshua Oigara, Stanbic Bank Kenya and South Sudan CE said, “As a Bank, we pride ourselves on being a catalyst for growth in the region, with sustainable finance acting as an enabler. This blended finance deal would mark one of the largest impact investment transactions in Kenya, with long term impact on job creation, sustainable housing and education. We are in the final stages of the structuring process and remain committed to the growth of Acorn Holdings and to the country’s sustainable infrastructure goals.’’
Adding to this, Alakh Kohli, Stanbic Bank Kenya Head, Corporate and Investment Banking said, “In the past years, we have mobilized about $122 million for green or sustainability linked facilities and we remain keen on unlocking more green finance opportunities in Kenya. This partnership would not only advance our growth journey with Acorn but would help us drive more societal impact. We are excited to be lead arranger in one of the largest transactions in affordable green housing in the region and will leverage our investment capabilities to drive a successful transaction upon approval.’’
The collaboration will result in the construction of 35 certified green housing projects, creating approximately 48,000 new student beds over the next 10 years, making it the single largest investment into student housing in Africa.
This project will be key to alleviating the shortage of quality and affordable accommodation for tertiary students in Kenya.
The initiative will create an estimated 15,000 direct jobs and 35,000 indirect jobs. The units will also provide a conducive learning environment for the students, helping to improve access to education.
This is not Stanbic Bank's first collaboration with Acorn Holdings. The Bank was instrumental in bringing the first-ever green bond to East Africa, in association with Acorn Holdings, for environmentally friendly student housing in Nairobi.
Standard Bank also facilitated the largest purchase of Acorn Holdings' Income and Development Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) through the Unquoted Securities Platform.
