Ommy Dallah
Farhiya Hussein Is This year’s Forty Under 40 Achiever 2024 Kenya
Farhiya Hussein Hassan, the coastal-based reporter for The Eastleigh Voice is this year's Forty under 40 Achiever , Kenya.
Farhiya who is also the Mombasa press Club treasurer won under the journalism category (Radio and Newspaper).
Farhiya who previously worked for Daily nation came to spotlight with her fearless exposé on the Shakahola Massacre, a tragic event that claimed the lives of over 400 individuals in Kenya.
Speaking at the ceremony, she emphasized the critical role of journalism in uncovering truths that others might seek to bury, stating, "Journalism is not easy; it is airing and publishing what other people do not want to be published."
Adding "It is indeed very encouraging to see a young girl like me from a marginalised community winning this award."
She has previously won other awards including Best Journalist of the Year 2023 at the Mombasa Youth Awards and recognised among the 100 Most Influential Kenyan Muslims in 2023.
The Forty Under 40 Africa Awards, now in their third edition in Kenya, aim to identify, honour, and celebrate the continent's most influential young leaders across various sectors ranging from bar finance, energy, family business, agriculture, theatre and arts, journalism, fashion, law, sports, event management, health, and technology, amongst others.
The rigorous selection process involves public nominations, data collection, and vetting by a competent jury, ensuring that only the most deserving candidates receive recognition.
Omar, Joho New Bromance Shakes Mombasa UDA Members
The new found bromance between UDA Vice Chairman Hassan Omar and ODM Deputy leader Hassan Joho seems to have shaken the UDA family in Mombasa.
Omar has recently been publicly supporting Joho in his bid to become the ODM party leader should incumbent Raila Odinga move to Addis Ababa to become the African Union Commission chairman.
Omar was among Coast leaders who attended an iftar at Joho's Nyali home a week ago.
During the event, Omar called on Coast leaders to stand with Joho in his quest to inherit Raila Odinga as the ODM party leader.
"My brother Hassan, we wish you all the best and stand with you in this. I have asked my people in UDA to also stand with you as Coast, let us all be united as the Coast people and leaders" said Omar.
On Thursday, a section of UDA members mostly allied to Nyali Mp Mohammed Ali criticised the new friendship between Omar and Joho terming it "not helpful to the UDA party".
The disgruntled party members, led by Mombasa coordinator Samir Omar, denied claims party members support Joho’s ODM bid.
“At an Iftar dinner this week, he said UDA members have come together to support a rival party. That is not true. That is his personal opinion and personal move,” Samir told journalists.
He accused Omar of escaping his leadership role and failing to unite UDA while supporting a rival party.
“How can you work with a rival party yet the party that sponsored you and which you are a high-ranking official has problems, which you have not solved yet?” Samir posed.
On Saturday, another wing of UDA members came out to defend the unity between Omar and Joho.
Led by the UDA Mombasa Chairman Mutungwa Wambua, said the unity between the two leaders (Omar and Joho) has the blessings of party members.
"Why should it be an issue for you if two leaders from the same region unite?, what is your agenda?' posed Wambua.
Adding "This is not the first time that leaders from different parties are uniting, this has happened before, our President has also united and even met the opposition leader Raila Odinga, so what is the big deal about two leaders from Coast region coming together"
On his part Mgandi Kalinga accused the coordinator Samir Omar of being a stooge.
"We are aware that the coordinator is a stooge and he is just bitter. What Hassan Omar is doing has the blessings of party members. We will always follow his instructions" said Kalinga.
Adding "Joho is our son and one of our own , we have a responsibility of ensuring that he becomes the next ODM Party Leader."
Skyward Express Officially Launches New Route ,JKIA to Moi International Airport
Local airline Skyward express is bringing more affordable domestic flights to Mombasa.
The carrier has officially launched the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport to Moi International airport.
The maiden flight landed at the Moi Airport Mombasa on Thursday 11:30am.
On board the flight was Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Kenya Maritime Authority Chairman Hamisi Mwaguya, Skyward express Chairman Captain Mohammed Abdi among other passengers.
"Travel between Mombasa and Nairobi will always be a critical link, this is between the two largest cities in Kenya. We will continue to invest in this route and offer world class travel." said Captain Mohammed.
Adding "For Skyward, investing in this route is a vote of confidence in the economies of Mombasa and Nairobi, we believe Skyward and its peers operating this route will see success and that demand will continue to grow."
On his part CS Murkomen commended the airline for the new route.
"Skyward is a good example of the bottom up economic, it has been growing slowly from the bottom" said Murkomen.
Adding "As a ministry we are proud of our local airlines like Skyward for it's efforts in improving the economy of the country. As a government we will always support our local airlines."
The CS further stated that the government is currently working on the infrastructure at the Coast especially the airports to improve tourism.
"We cannot improve the tourism sector if we dont invest in our airports and roads" argued Murkomen.
Skyward express currently operates scheduled passenger services to Eldoret, Lodwar, Kakamega, Kitale, Lamu, Malindi, Mombasa and Ukunda.
Red Bull Dance Your Style Competition - Back In Kenya
Red Bull Dance Your Style, the biggest urban street dance competition in the world, is back in Kenya for its fifth edition.
The dance competition will once again take to different regions around Kenya to find the best dancers who will battle to become Kenya’s ultimate champ. The dance battle will pass through two universities and different Kenyan cities, starting with Eldoret (13 April), Kisumu, Mombasa and back to Nairobi (29 June), after which the National Finals will be held on 13 July.
To join the competition, sign up for your preferred qualifier. You must be 18+ https://participate.redbull.
Red Bull Dance Your Style is a unique competition, with no judges. The twist? The crowd decides who wins by voting for their favourite dancers. The dancers’ creativity, freestyle, and musical skills are put to the test in front of a live audience. All urban dance styles are welcome except for break dancing– the only rule you can’t break.
The DJ plays unpredictable music, and the dancers will have to adapt, dance their style and impress the crowd. After each battle, spectators hold up blue or red placards to choose a winner. In other words, YOU decide the champion, who guarantees a place in the world final.
International Red Bull dancer and world champion Stalamuerte from Switzerland, celebrated globally for his signature hip hop dance moves, was in Kenya over the past weekend (23 March 2024) at the official launch of Red Bull Dance Your Style 2024 edition. Speaking after the event Stala said, “Africa is my favourite continent and I am thrilled to be here. Being my first time in Kenya– I'm feeling like an infant experiencing things for the first time. I’m taking in every moment.”
Stalamuerte met Kenya’s dance community and interacted with them through a panel discussion and a Q&A session that was hosted by Kenyan media personality Azeezah Hashim. He later gave an interactive dance workshop that was joined by a host of dancers and groups including Art In Motion. Among the things he tackled at a dance workshop was fundamentals of winning Red Bull Dance Your Style, musicality, vibing with the crowd and adaptability to unpredictable music and times like social media influence.
He said, “My advice to Kenyan dancers is to master confidence and trust their art. Keep doing your thing and don't care about other people’s opinions. If you are passionate about what you do, that’s all that matters." It wouldn’t be complete without a friendly battle after some Kenyan dancers dared Stalamuerte.
Also in attendance was Fabius Oduor–Kenya’s Red Bull Dance Your Style 2023 Champ, who also took to the stage for a freestyle dance, as this year’s lead DJ Sir M dropped multiple mixes. Fabius Oduor said, “Becoming the reigning champ was a mind-blowing experience and a dream come true, that I’d wish for every other Kenyan dancer,” adding, “Stronger than ever, I am back and participating in this year’s competition. I am looking forward to displaying my growth as a dancer and how the new experience unfolds for me.”
Red Bull Kenya continues to support the international mixed-style dance competition to support dance talent in Kenya and upskill local dance communities while exposing them to different levels of dance on a global stage.
Red Bull Dance Your Style is a global competition with 51 counties participating. The ultimate champ at the national finals will represent Kenya in Mumbai, India for the world finals on 9 November. The winner will win an all-expense paid trip to India for the World Finals. All enthusiasts and lovers of dance–it’s time to show up for your talent or your favourite dancer so check out where the next event is happening and come through with your squad.
KEY EVENT DATE QUALIFIERS:
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Eldoret 13 April
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Kisumu 27 April
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Kenyatta University 11 May
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Mombasa 25 May
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USIU 15 June
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Nairobi 29 June
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National Finals 13 July.
Nissan Navaras Head Off On Daring Adventure Into Africa
A convoy of Nissan Navara pick-ups, representing the entire range that is manufactured in South Africa, left Rosslyn plant in Pretoria, Nissan’s African LCV manufacturing hub, today on the first leg of an eight country odyssey into the interior of Africa and ultimately Cairo.
The expedition, dubbed Daring Africa 2024, proves the boast that this range of Nissan Navaras has been built to withstand the most severe road conditions in Africa.
It also celebrates a wonderful legacy, says Nissan South Africa Managing Director Maciej Klenkiewicz. “These Navaras, all new and built of more, have been made for Africa by African hands that care in the very same place that the first Nissan vehicle was built in Africa more than 60 years ago.”
The factory in Rosslyn, says Nissan Africa managing director Sherief Eldessouky, is an enduring symbol of Nissan’s ties to South Africa and Africa as a whole. “We are very proud of our history and of the multi-generational relationship that we have been privileged to create between employees and customers since we started, both here and across the continent.”
Today Rosslyn has evolved into Nissan’s LCV manufacturing hub for Africa, with the Navaras that are built here sold across Africa and, since the end of last year, in the new markets of Algeria and Libya. Soon, the vehicle range will be introduced to Egypt.
“We’ve dubbed this journey Daring Africa,” explains Nissan African Head of Communications and PR Ramy Mohareb, “because it really is a wonderful new chapter to Nissan Dare, last year’s celebration of Nissan’s 90th anniversary.”
The odyssey, he says is daring in so many different ways. “It allows us to showcase a vehicle that we are very proud of in a series of immersive events literally all the way to Cairo. We are proving our promise that the entire range of the Nissan Navara which we build on the continent, is equal to the severest road conditions that Africa has to offer as we connect our two manufacturing hubs on either side of the continent,” he added.
Tonight, the expedition accompanied by selected South African journalists overnighted at Nelspruit after visiting selected Nissan dealerships in Pretoria and Mbombela: Nissan Menlyn and Produkta Nissan en route to the Mozambique border. The next leg will see the expedition heading into Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania and Kenya, being met and accompanied by a team from each country’s media, before ending the adventure in Egypt.
Throughout their African odyssey, the Navaras will be shadowed by a Nissan X-Trail acting as an expedition support vehicle, which will also give the X-Trail an opportunity to prove its adventure credentials on some of Africa’s highways.
“The Navara is a wonderful evolution of the Nissan pick-up legacy,” says Nissan Africa marketing director Stefan Haasbroek, “and this trip will show our customers and fans exactly that in real life, real-time situations as we celebrate the best that Africa has to offer.”
The vehicle is not just tropicalised for the African market, it literally has been built for market conditions, with a reinforced chassis a very different suspension and the best roll over angle in the market. “It literally is built of more,” he says.
Africa is a vital market for Nissan, says Eldessouky. The continent is regarded as the world’s last remaining automotive frontier because of the low level of vehicle ownership, which Nissan is well placed to serve through its unique manufacturing footprint in Egypt and South Africa and its wide range of mobility solutions.
“We believe in Africa, and we believe in this continent’s potential,” says Eldessouky. “Our mantra for the region is Let’s Build’ and this expedition really is proof positive of that and the opportunity that the AfCFTA holds for all of us.”
Government Deports 5 Foreigners Suspected Of Being Involved In Serious Crime
The Immigration Department has been aggressive in pursuing foreigners involved in criminal activities in the Country.
In the past week, the Immigration Department has processed the deportation and removal of foreign nationals involved in drug trafficking and cyber-crime activities.
During the raid which saw Olayiwola Saheed Tunde, Nwosu Prince Chukwuebuka, Ajibade Adewale, Nwanonaku Alexander Odirachukwumma and Olayiwola Babatunde Akintomwa arrested some were found in possession of forged documents, fake passports and fake dollars.
The Investigations Department at Nyayo House reported that some foreigners had become nuisance to the public and law enforcement as some had even sneaked back into the country after being declared persona non grata and deported last year.
Some of them, did not have valid immigration status in the country while others had been involved in credit card fraud and sale of drugs within Nairobi’s estates. Others were arrested in possession of forged documents, fake passports and fake dollars.
The West Africans were reportedly involved in drug trafficking after being deported to Nigeria, end up re-locating to Tanzania and coordinate drug shipments into Kenya through their Kenyan counterparts.
They were declared Prohibited Immigrants and deported to Nigeria on 18th March 2024 by the Directorate of Immigrations Services.
Kwale County Acquires Excavator To Fast Move Water Projects
Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani, mid this month (March 2024) commissioned a newly procured Excavator for the Department of Water Services. The heavy machine that has a huge capacity to quarry a large surface area in a very short period is essential to the department of water services as it will ensure on time completion of water projects in the county.
Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, Madam Achani noted that the county has prioritized key sectors that need huge investment and water services is one of them.
She said her administration has vowed to ensure reliable accessibility to clean water for Kwale residents.
“I am aware that access to clean water and sanitation facilities is a fundamental human right and a crucial indicator of societal progress and I will make sure we succeed in this”, added the Governor.
The governor further said that water is at the core of sustainable development and is critical for socio-economic development, healthy ecosystems and for human survival. She said that access to clean water will reduce the burden of diseases and improve health, welfare and enhance productivity of the Kwale residents.
Kwale County had been struggling with water shortages over the years, with some parts not having experienced piped fresh water since independence. However, things have been changing drastically for the better since the county government initiated an integrated approach in dealing with the delinquent.
The excavator has added strength to the pool of equipment at the water services department. The department has in its possession water buzzers, drilling machine, services vans among others that have been key to the turning around the perennial water issues to a more reliable supply.
The leadership has just started the second year of its first term and a lot of progress is visible, commissioning of completed water pans and dams, drilling of boreholes and water points, investments in water harvesting and storage and so many other projects. The trend is promising and the future rays of light in the tunnel are evident.
Nyandarua Boarding Primary School Alumni Launch Campaign For Construction Of A Multi-Purpose Modern Digital Library
Nyandarua Boarding Primary School Alumni have launched a campaign for construction of a Multi-Purpose Modern Digital Library in the school as a way to transform the learning model at the school.
This initiative represents a significant step forward in advancing education in rural areas, ensuring that children in Laikipia and Nyandarua counties have access to top-quality resources and opportunities.
The Alumni, which has been steering the project, is now appealing to stakeholders join hands and make the dream a reality.
Chairman of the NBPS Alumni Association, Jacob Mugeni, reflected on the journey that led to this transformative initiative, expressing profound pride.
He stated, "I'm immensely proud to witness the growth of the Alumni Community over the past 13 years, which has birthed a visionary project offering unlimited opportunities for thousands of children and the host community. We humbly appeal for funding towards this endeavor."
This initiative represents a significant step forward in advancing education in rural areas, ensuring that children in Laikipia and Nyandarua counties have access to top-quality resources and opportunities
The NBPS Digital Library is designed to be a cornerstone of education and empowerment, serving over 1,000 pupils currently enrolled at the school and the broader Nyahururu community.
With a projected cost of 70 million Kenya shillings, (approximately 700,000 USD), this ambitious project signifies a commitment to providing the best possible educational tools and resources to students and the community, ensuring they are well-equipped to thrive in the digital era.
The Headteacher Mr. Charles Mbugua, reflected on the journey that led to this transformative initiative, expressing profound pride stating that he is immensely proud to witness the growth of the Alumni Community over the past 13 years, which has birthed a visionary project offering unlimited opportunities for thousands of children and the host community
His sentiments were echoed by Miss Magdalene Wanjugu the project lead, who added that the NBPS Digital Library has employed a modern technology system of learning which in turn will empower the learners to compete and thrive in a globalized world as per the government's agenda of digital superhighway.
The learners on their side could not hide their joy noting a significant change in learning experience, as they will be getting revision materials digitally thereby going paperless.
Pioneers Of Gengetone Make Triumphant Return With 'Amigos'
After a brief hiatus, the trailblazing boy group synonymous with the Gengetone movement is back and stronger than ever. Ethic Entertainment, known for revolutionizing the Kenyan music scene, reignite the airwaves with their highly anticipated comeback track, "Amigos."
"Amigos" marks a pivotal moment for Ethic Entertainment as they reclaim their position at the forefront of the Gengetone genre. The track not only signifies their return but also showcases their evolution as artists while staying true to their signature style that has captivated audiences worldwide.
This is a vibrant song that captures the essence of daily life among friends and colleagues. It explores their shared experiences, celebrations, and the natural dynamics of their social interactions.
Produced by acclaimed Nigerian producer, Wondamagik, "Amigos" boasts a dynamic fusion of infectious beats and catchy melodies, setting the stage for a chart-topping hit. With Wondamagik's expert touch and Ethic’s unmatched talent, the track promises to be a game-changer.
"We're thrilled to be back and sharing our new music with our fans," says Dennis, manager for Ethic Entertainment. "This track is a testament to our journey and the unwavering support of our loyal fans. 'Amigos' is just the beginning of what's to come from Ethic Entertainment"
As pioneers of the Gengetone movement, they continue to push boundaries and redefine the sound of Kenyan music. With "Amigos," they invite listeners to join them on a journey filled with energy, creativity, and the unmistakable spirit of Gengetone.
"Amigos" by Ethic Entertainment is available on all major streaming platforms. Don't miss out on this groundbreaking comeback from the group that started it all.
What’s Next for the Group
Amigos introduces a fusion of gengetone with other genres, showcasing Ethic's trailblazing style. Expect a series of exciting new tracks, different sounds while keeping it to the core of what has made Ethic such an enigma in the Kenyan music scene.
Kizz Daniel Releases New EP Titled 'Thankz Alot'
Chart-topping Nigerian music sensation, Kizz Daniel has released a brand new music project titled ‘Thankz Alot’, showing his loyal fanbase gratitude. The highly anticipated EP, comprising four tracks, is a heartfelt expression of appreciation for the unwavering support from his fans throughout his illustrious career spanning a decade.
Since the EP’s unveiling, it has received massive love and overwhelmingly positive response across East Africa and the rest of the globe. Kizz Daniel expressed his gratitude, saying, "I am incredibly grateful for the love and support I have received from my fans throughout my career. 'Thankz Alot’ is my way of expressing my appreciation and giving back to them for their unwavering support."
‘Thankz Alot’ EP features four soulful tracks, each showcasing Kizz Daniel's versatility and unique musical style. The tracks include “Sooner”, “Showa”, “Too Busy to Be Bae” and “Twe Twe”. It’s worth mentioning that the “Twe Twe” remix featuring Afrobeats sensation, Davido, has added an extra layer of excitement to the EP.
Watch “Twe Twe” - Kizz Daniel & Davido: https://youtu.be/041PlAGNMsQ?
Watch “Too Busy To Be Bae” - Kizz Daniel: https://youtu.be/0RPzLGxepxg?
Kizz Daniel, known for his dynamic sound and captivating performances, aims to connect even deeper with his audience through this EP, which serves as a token of his gratitude. The EP's title, ‘Thankz Alot’, reflects Kizz Daniel's sincere appreciation for the love and support he has received from his fans worldwide.
From dancing with the mother of his kids on his Instagram page to changing his Instagram photos to his wife and kid recently, Oluwatobiloba Daniel Anidugbe popularly known as Kizz Daniel has gone public with his family with the release of his new EP. ‘Thankz Alot’ serves as a testament to his continued dedication to his craft and his gratitude towards his fans and follows the success of his 2023 album ‘Maverick’, which garnered widespread acclaim.
Kizz Daniel is no stranger to delivering chart-topping hits. His versatility and ability to connect with audiences across the globe has made him one of Africa’s most successful artists. 2024 is set to be a thrilling year as the king of back to back hits is back with a new trendy EP. ‘Thankz Alot’ is available for streaming on all digital platforms.
