Ommy Dallah
Lamu Port poised to be the hub of transshipment business
The port of Lamu is poised to become a hub of transshipment business after the acquisition of three new ship-to-shore gantry cranes.
The Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) acquired the cranes from China at a total cost of USD 31 million (approximately Sh4 billion).
The cranes arrived in Lamu port last Sunday with the vessel carrying the cranes MV Zhen Hua 24, berthing at the port’s second berth.
KPA Managing Director Captain William Ruto said that the cranes are expected to boost operations at Kenya’s second commercial port.
“The procurement of these cranes underscores our commitment in managing our premier ports, including the Port of Mombasa and Port of Lamu which serve as vital gateways for regional and international trade, connecting our nation to the global economy”.
“These cutting-edge cranes, equipped with advanced technology and capabilities, will revolutionize our operations and position the Port as a global maritime hub,” said Ruto.
The cranes have a span of 30.5 meters with a lifting height of 60 meters and an outreach of 62 meters with a back reach of 16 meters.
Captain Ruto said that what sets the cranes apart is their advanced technology and capabilities.
“These cranes have been specifically designed to address the unique challenges posed by Lamu's windy conditions, with twin-box booms ensuring stability and operational reliability,” Ruto said.
Furthermore, with a reach of 24 containers across and the ability to handle modern vessels over 18,000 TEUs, these cranes are equipped to compete with the best ports in the world and attract Super Post Panamax vessels”
The port serves as a critical pillar of the Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor project and is expected to connect Kenya to South Sudan and Ethiopia and is also expected to link northern Kenya to the Middle Belt of Africa which runs from Dakar, Senegal in the west to Lamu in the east.
The LAPSSET Corridor Program encompasses a vast network of infrastructure projects, including highways, railways, and international airports.
Since the operationalization of the port in 2021, Lamu port has to date handled 59 vessels that called to the port making a substantial increase in cargo and container traffic.
In 2023 alone, the Port of Lamu handled 37,576 metric tons of cargo, marking a substantial increase from 6,539 MT in 2022, reflecting a growth of 31,037 MT.
Additionally, container traffic saw a significant rise, with 1,779 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) recorded in 2023 compared to 382 TEUs in 2022, representing an increase of 1,397 TEUs.
“With a total container capacity of 1.2 million TEUs across its three berths of 400 meters each, the Port is poised to become a key driver of economic growth and regional integration,”
"These impressive statistics underscore the vital role that the Port of Lamu plays in facilitating trade and driving economic growth in the region” Ruto said.
Global Citizen Announces Winners Of Global Citizen Prize And Cisco Youth Leadership Award
By keeping the world's poor at the forefront of their campaigns, the Global Citizen Prize honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to defeating poverty, defending the planet, and demanding equity.
This year, the Global Citizen Prize recognizes advocates across five categories: gender equity, civic space, climate change, food and nutrition, health and vaccines.
The Global Citizen Prize 2024 awardees are:
- Andrew Ddembe, Health Lawyer, Founder and Executive Director, Mobiklinic Foundation, from Uganda;
- Lydia Charles Moyo, Founder and Executive Director of Her Initiative and Panda Digital, from Tanzania;
- Olivier Bahemuke Ndoole, Environmental Rights Defender and Lawyer, Cofounder of Alerte Congolaise pour l’Environnement et les Droits de l’Homme, from Democratic Republic of the Congo;
- Sophie Healy-Thow, Founder, Act4Food, Global Youth Campaigns Coordinator for the GAIN (Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition), from Ireland; and
- Vishal Prasad, Campaign Director, Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change, from Fiji.
Established in 2018 by Cisco and Global Citizen, the Global Citizen Prize: Cisco Youth Leadership Award honors an individual aged 18-30 who has contributed meaningfully to global problem solving. The prize winner will receive a US$250,000 grant to their organization to enable its continued growth.
This year’s Cisco Youth Leadership Award recipient is Ricardo Enrique Alba Torres, environmental engineer, Cofounder and CEO of the social enterprise Eko Group H2O+, from Bogotá, Colombia.
“If we are to address the world’s most pressing issues, we need to support young leaders who are taking action now,” said Liza Henshaw, President, Global Citizen. “It is an honor to celebrate these inspirational trailblazers, who are dedicating their lives to uplifting the most vulnerable in their local communities, and advancing the fight against ending extreme poverty across the world.”
“Cisco is deeply committed to the belief that the world needs innovators like Ricardo to lead the way in global problem solving,”said Fran Katsoudas, EVP and Chief People, Policy & Purpose Officer of Cisco.
The Global Citizen Prize is part of Global Citizen NOW, a two-day summit taking place in New York City on May 1 and 2, convening government leaders, private sector executives, grassroots activists, cultural innovators, philanthropic experts, and leading journalists to set a global agenda for action on the most urgent issues facing humanity and the planet.
Unite And Work Together For The Sake Of Development, Coast Leaders Told
Coast leaders have been challenged to unite and work closely with each other to achieve faster development in the region.
According to Mombasa youth leader, Evans Momanyi the divisions among leaders is the main cause of slow and lack of developement in the region.
Momanyi told the leaders to always put the interests of wananchi ahead of all other partisan considerations.
"Political parties are just vehicles that you use to get to office but you should not allow them to divide you. You are all from the same region so work together and solve the challenges facing the region." said Momanyi.
Momanyi noted that time has come for leaders to think of how they would like to be remembered by current and future generations.
Momanyi "We must start thinking about the future, what will the future generation say about you as the leader, is there any impact that you will have created in their lives. Start asking yourselves how will the politics of division, hate and backstabbing help the region."
His sentiments comes just days after Coast politicians led by Senate speaker Amason Kingi also called for unity among the leaders.
Speaking during an iftar hosted by EALA Mp Hassan Omar, Kingi challenged the politicians to look for a common political party with interests of the region and people at heart.
A Taste Of Magic At Sankara
Kenya's vibrant culinary scene is transforming as customers beckon for an elevated experience to satisfy their taste buds.
The Sankara Hotel, nestled within Westlands, Nairobi, are at the heart of this revolution with their Magical Sunday Brunch.
Every first Sunday of the month, individuals with a discerning palate and an adventurous spirit embark on an engaging journey of taste. For them,this is not just for a meal; but a magical experience tailored to meet their need for luxury, and this five star hotel certainly understands the assignment.
Imagine stepping into a world that feels like a culinary celebration, filled with the tantalizing aromas of more than fifteen oriental cuisines from around the world. From delectable confectionery to savoury sushi, one was sure to indulge in a journey unlike any other.
To go with the immaculate ambience and great music, Tanqueray Gin came in as partners elevating the experience to new heights.
Renowned for its lightness, low calorie count, and mixability, Tanqueray sets the stage for a symphony of flavors, perfectly complementing the diverse array of dishes on offer. From the moment guests arrive, they are enveloped in a world of luxury and refinement.
A mentorship setup awaits at the entrance, guiding guests through the intricacies of the Tanqueray brand and offering a welcome cocktail to set the tone for the culinary adventure ahead.
The Magical Sunday Brunch offers more than just a feast for the senses; it is a melting pot of diverse cultures and backgrounds with a gathering of Kenya's elite, families seeking quality time, and expatriates craving a taste of home.
Here conversations flow as freely as the cocktails and unforgettable memories are created beyond the last bite.
The Sankara Autograph offers an experience that changes the game in the culinary scene calling for individuals to shun the mundane and embrace the extraordinary. Brunch is certainly better and we cannot wait for the next taste of magic.
Reprieve For Nominated Mp Abubakar Talib
Nominated legislator Abubakari Ahmed Talib alias Abu got a reprieve after the Court of Appeal upheld a high court decision.
Court of appeal judges sitting in Nairobi have struck off consolidated appeals filed against the nomination of Abu under the Wiper Democratic Movement party.
The court of appeal judges consisting of Lady Justice Pauline Nyamweya, judge Ali - Aroni and Justice Mwaniki Gachoka said in their 15-page judgement that the consolidated appeal by Wiper Secretary-General Shakila Abdalla and party member Lucas Mulinge Wambua against Abu’s nomination has been struck off due to lack of jurisdiction.
They said for the court of appeal to entertain the aggrieved parties' appeal would be acting outside their mandate as stipulated in the section's act.
"If we had entertained the appeal filed by the duo as to which was the proper and genuine party list and whether Abu was validly nominated we would be acting outside our mandate," they pointed out.
The judges said in the judgment their hands are tied as the gazettement of Abu as nominated MP has already taken place and Abu has been sworn in,
The judges pointed out the aggrieved parties failed to follow the correct legal procedure to challenge Abu's nomination.
Call For Coast Unity Dominates Mp Omar Annual Iftar Dinner
Call for unity among Coast leaders dominated an iftar dinner organised by East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Hassan Omar, on Sunday.
Leaders present at the iftar emphasised the importance of prioritising and listening to the region's concerns, irrespective of political allegiances.
The leaders mainly from the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) and the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) vowed to unite and speak in one voice.
Senate Speaker Amason Kingi challenged the leaders to join his Pamoja African Alliance party.
“When I started the Pamoja African Alliance (PAA) Party, it was not an easy one. Today we are calling for unity to plan the 2027 politics while we are in different political parties. As long as you belong to different political formations forget about unity, ODM will do their way and UDA. If truly we want unity then we must look for our own house (party)." argued Kingi.
Adding " I have been listening to all of you here calling for unity, whatever you have all said is because your party leaders are not here, if they were here you would not said some of the things that you said. As Coast leaders we have to stop being political puppets and the only way is we must find our won House as a region."
Kingi called on Coast leaders to go back to the drawing board and find out the reason and cause of disunity among the leaders.
"Just go and search for the speeches of Coast leaders from the era of the late Ngala until now, the speeches are all the same , We are simply playing the tape and if we don't sit down and see where the problem is then things will not change for the next 100 years. We must change the narrative and this is only possible if we get to know where the problem is.''
On his part EALA Mp Hassan Omar lashed out at some leaders from the region for criticising and attacking politicians from different political leaders whenever they unite.
"We have come along way as the people of Pwani, we cannot allow some few individuals to come and divide us. Who are you to go to social media and start criticisng a leader just because he was seen with another leader from a rival party. This is stupidity" said Omar.
Adding " Any leader who has our interests at heart, we must stand with the them as the Coast people irrespective of their political party. Raila Odinga and Ruto United, for us we will not wait for anyone to come and tell us to unite, we will continue working together with like minded leaders."
Omar noted that he will support former Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho in his bid to take over from Raila Odinga as ODM party leader.
Omar charged "We will unite and continue working together, we will push Hassan Joho to where he wants to go because he is one of us"
Speaking at the same forum, Jomvu Mp Badi Twalib called on Coast politicians to stop politics of division and witch hunt.
"No one tells me what to say in a public forum, I speak my words without mincing them. As leaders we need to stop witch hunt. We need to be proud and support each other." said Twalib.
Twalib emphasized the need to prioritise serving the locals over political party interests, urging them to move beyond divisive politics and focus on progressing together.
Former First Lady Margaret Kenyatta advocates for gender equality and social development by empowering County First Ladies.
Former First Lady of Kenya,Margaret Kenyatta, presided over the closing ceremony of the inaugural Leadership Program for County Social Transformation held at the Sarova Whitesands Hotel in Mombasa County.
The Beyond Zero Initiative has partnered with the Kenya School of Government (KSG), the oldest public sector training institute in the country, to establish the Margaret Kenyatta Institute (MKI). The establishment of the MKI and initiatives such as the Leadership Program for County Social Transformation highlight the broader recognition of women's crucial role in driving economic growth and social progress.
In her address to the first cohorts of the program, Mrs. Kenyatta noted that the vision, mission, and mandate of the Institute, which is embedded in the Kenya School of Government's core mandate, is to transform society through services and programs that promote Social Justice, Gender Equality, Wellness and Health, and Empowerment.
The caucus gathered County First Ladies from Kilifi, Elgeyo Marakwet, Mig ori, West Pokot, Kakamega, Narok, Siaya, and Bomet to engage in strategic discussions and initiatives focused on promoting social change at the grassroots level. Margaret Kenyatta extended her gratitude to the participating County First Ladies for their involvement in the event.
"I thank you for being the first cohort of this inaugural program which recognizes the unique leadership roles you play in your counties as spouses of Governors. We applaud you for your diverse aspirations, in what may sometimes be uncharted paths or challenging roles you play to make a difference in your communities,"
The Kenya School of Government collaborated with the Beyond Zero Initiative to craft the Leadership Program curriculum. Initiatives such as the Leadership Program for County Social Transformation highlight the increasing recognition of the essential role women play in fostering both economic development and social advancement.
"I hope that the case studies and experiential learning reflect the opportunities to help you overcome challenges and promote continuous engagement in the future," Mrs. Kenyatta remarked.
During the week-long event, the First Ladies were introduced to a range of strategies and initiatives to promote social change in their respective counties.
Notable speakers included Lady Justice Njoki Ndungu, H.E. Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, former First Lady of Ekiti State, Nigeria, Nicole Brzeski and Cora Neumann of the Global First Ladies Association, Lucy Mathenge from UN Women, and Jacqueline Wambua from ROCHE E.A, among others.
The discussions revolved around topics such as the Interface between Government and Politics, Gender and Social Development, Legacy Building for Enduring Impact, Championing Causes for Social Transformation, Philanthropy and Resource Mobilization, and Partnerships.
With confidence, the former First Lady expressed her belief that this training will empower County First Ladies to champion noble causes in their respective regions, contributing to a brighter future for all citizens of Kenya. Also present at the ceremony were: Chairperson, Kenya School of Government, Hon. Rtd. Justice Charles Nyachae, Lynette Otwori, Acting Director of MKI, and senior administrative officials from KSG.
Enough Is Enough, Says Nassir Over Rise In Juvenile Crime Trends
Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir has raised his concern over the rising trends of juvenile crime in the county.
Speaking on Friday at his office during the handing over of bursaries worth 2 million shillings by the Shining Hope for Communities popularly known as SHOFCO, Nassir warned those involved in the criminal activities of dire conseqeuneces.
"Enough is enough! We wont tolerate juvenile gangs terrorizing innocent residents of Mombasa." said Nassir.
Adding " The County Government has done its part to keep our youth meaningfully engaged during the holidays. If they get caught doing the wrong things, we will hold them and their parents accountable."
Nassir also challenged parents to monitor and take responsibility of their Children.
"Why is it that this cases only happen when Children are on break from school, this shows that parents are failing in their responsibilities ." argued Nassir.
The Governor also challenged the courts not to give out bails and bonds to Children charged with crime.
Female Lawmakers Advocate For Implementation Of Two-Thirds Gender Rule
The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) has today held a meeting with the Multi Sectoral Working Group (MSWG) and the chairperson for the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee, Hon. George Murugara to push for the implementation of the two-thirds gender rule in Kenya.
Speaking during the meeting, KEWOPA's chairperson Hon. Leah Sankaire (Kajiado) expressed dismay over the initial exclusion of the two-thirds gender rule from the NADCO report and the failure to provide the Multi-Sectoral Working Group with a timeline to incorporate their suggestions promptly, instead of addressing the issue as an "addendum."
"As Women in Kenya, we feel you made it deliberate and technical to dilute the weight of the two-thirds gender rule and that it doesn't go through," said Hon. Sankaire.
The association's vice chairperson, Hon. Beatrice Elachi (Dagoretti) questioned the disregard of the presidential memorandum on the same.
On her part, Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris underscored JLAC's obligation, urging compliance to ensure gender equity in legislative representation.
"We aren't asking for things that aren't within our rights. Just comply with the constitution because you know what to do," remarked Hon. Passaris.
Also adding her voice, Hon. Milly Mabona (Suba North) emphasized the need for proper coordination as Kenya Women Parliamentarians.
In response to queries, Hon. Murugara defended the decision to relegate the gender rule to an addendum to the NADCO report.
"An addendum is as good as the report itself", said Hon. Murugara.
He noted that the two-third gender rule was removed from the NADCO report and assigned the Multi-Sectoral Working Group to deal with and submit its findings.
JLAC's chairperson also took women lawmakers through the unpacking of the NADCO report and the status of the two-thirds gender rule stating that his Committee is in receipt of the report and shall soon be reviewing it.
He also distanced himself from the notion that his Committee had already agreed on a formula for its implementation.
"We haven't agreed on the formula yet. We shall only adopt 1 out of the 3 submitted proposals," stated Hon. Murugara.
Acknowledging the critical role of political goodwill, the Multi-Sectoral Working Group underscored the importance of Parliamentary compliance, warning of potential political ramifications.
"For as long as parliament isn't compliant, there are serious political consequences," said Ms. Daisy Amdany, a representative of the Multi-Sectoral Working Group.
In her closing remarks, Hon. Sankaire rallied women legislators to heed the call and support its implementation, stressing the potential to foster gender inclusivity and the creation of opportunities for women in the country.
Kenya-Ghana Cooperation Marks Milestone in Bilateral Relations – MUDAVADI
