Special Economic Zones (SEZ) are crucial in achieving the Kenya Kwanza government’s goals of job creation, youth empowerment, and sustainable development in the country, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has said.

Mudavadi said that the government was committed to creating an environment that encourages investment and job creation among the youths.

Speaking during a tour of Tatu City, Kenya’s first operational Special Economic Zone, Mudavadi SEZ projects like Tatu City were crucial in achieving the government’s goals of job creation, youth empowerment, and sustainable development.

"Tatu City is more than just a place; it is a model for the kind of development we want to see across Kenya. It is about creating opportunities, empowering our youth, and building a future that we can all be proud of," Mudavadi said.

With its strategic location, modern infrastructure, and favorable investment climate, Mudavadi noted that Tatu City is set to play a pivotal role in Kenya’s economic future, important in empowering the next generation of leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs.

Mudavadi, also the Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs noted that Tatu City showed what can be achieved when the country mixes innovative infrastructure with strategic investments.

Mudavadi, focused on youth empowerment during his visit to Tatu City, highlighting the city's crucial role in creating opportunities for young Kenyans.

During the tour, Mudavadi met with the Executive Management team at Tatu City led by Stephen Jennings, Founder and CEO of Rendeavour and held discussion on how Tatu City was driving Kenya's economic transformation.

"The opportunities here are vast. They are key to our mission of empowering the youth, who are the backbone of our nation’s future," said Mudavadi.

Mudavadi stressed that the Digital Superhighway will open up many job opportunities for young people, especially in technology and communication.

“One key area we discussed is the Digital Superhighway initiative. It is part of the government's broader agenda to integrate technology into various sectors of the economy. I am happy that Africa’s largest call center, operated by Call Centre International (CCI) has employed 5000 and is expected to double the number in the near future,” said Mudavadi.

The Prime Cabinet Secretary also highlighted other sectors that will benefit from Tatu City's developments. These include agriculture, manufacturing, education, and affordable housing.

He noted that integrating these sectors into the city’s framework ensures that economic benefits reach a broad part of the population, particularly the youth.

Tatu City is one of Kenya’s first operational Special Economic Zones (SEZ). It offers a range of incentives to attract investors, that include reduced corporate taxes, zero-rated VAT, and import duty exemptions.

So far, over 60 companies have established a presence within Tatu City. These businesses represent more than $1 billion in investments. This level of investment highlights the city’s growing importance in Kenya’s economic landscape.

Mudavadi also visited the FullCare Medical garment production facility that is operational within the city. It currently employs 1,800 individuals, with plans to expand the workforce to 7,000.

The growth of FullCare Medical is vital in providing sustainable employment, especially for the youth in the manufacturing sector.

In addition to these key facilities, Mudavadi also toured Unity Homes and KWAL (Kenya Wines Agency Limited)

Unity Homes focuses on providing affordable housing. This sector is crucial to the government's agenda of ensuring that all Kenyans have access to decent living conditions.

KWAL, a major player in the manufacturing sector, further contributes to Tatu City’s economic vibrancy.

Tatu City is a 5,000-acre, new city with homes, schools, offices, a shopping district, medical clinics, nature areas, a sport & entertainment complex and manufacturing area for more than 250,000 residents and tens of thousands of day visitors. Schools and businesses are already open at Tatu City, and a range of homes suit all incomes.

Tatu City is Kenya’s first operational Special Economic Zone, providing reduced corporate taxes, zero-rated VAT and import duty exemptions, among other benefits

Mining and Blue Economy CS Hassan Joho has warned miners against absconding their responsibility of paying royalties.

According to Joho, some miners in the country are taking  advantage of what he said is a loophole in the law to sale off the minerals and use the proceeds to invest before coming back years later to pay the royalties.

“We have no business entertaining someone who does not want to pay the rightful dues for the Kenyan people and the Kenyan government." said Joho.

Adding “The government and the people of Kenya are not in the business of waiting, money has value,” 

Speaking in Taita Taveta during a stakeholders meeting with leaders and community representatives of Kishushe Cooperative Ranch, Joho said he will be engaging Mps for a change of laws.

" We will make a new law where once you are paid, you pay the county, pay the community and pay the government there and then,” he said.

Joho directed all mining officials in the country to ensure that there is no illegal mining activity in their respective areas.

"Our officers from the different law enforcement agencies. How do you allow illegal mining to take place in areas you are manning. So county commissioner, we start here in Taita Taveta, anyone engaging in illegal mining in this area, I am giving a directive, you take responsibility," 

Mombasa MCAs have called for punitive measures to help curb the rising cases of online Child sexual exploitation in the county.

Speaking at the County Assembly, nominated Member of the assembly Milka Ngare raised her concern on the rising cases of the act in the county calling an end to it.

Ngare sought to have the County Government develop and implement comprehensive strategies to address the growing trend of online child exploitation in Mombasa.

She argued that lack of knowledge and naivety, poverty and cultural factors leading to children not talking to parents if and when abused led to their widespread online exploitation.

"Enough is enough, we need to protect our children against this thing."said Ngare.

Adding "It is also our responsibility as leaders to protect out children by having in place stringent measures which will make it almost impossible for someone to do it."

She further urged the County Government to Create awareness through radio, television, seminars, workshops, and teacher and parent training. In addition to strong support systems and creation of Safe spaces where the children may be monitored and protected while online.

Her sentiments were echoed by Bamburi MCA Patrick Mbelle who attributed this to unmonitored use of phones and internet.

Mbelle called for monitoring especially from parents, guardians and even the government.

On his part Chaani MCA Frank Makanga applauded Ngare for coming up with the motion saying if the measures are put in place they will help in protecting children from the vice.

"We are talking about the future of our Children, if these measures are put in place we will be protecting a whole generation." said Makanga

Early this year (June) police announced that they had identified 200 locations in Mombasa suspected of recruiting children into online pornography video streaming stating that the Children were being paid Sh6,000 a week

Among the areas where child pornography have in the past been reported in Bamburi, Nyali and Mtwapa.

Poverty was mentioned as among the reasons why Children are being easily targeted and recruited to the crime.

Kisauni is set to get a new face as the official launch of the first modern gated community project to the constituency is set for next week.

The project dubbed Santana which is being undertaken by Megna homes  will be located at Kwa Sonko in Bakarani along the Old Mombasa-Malindi Road.

The project project will feature modern amenities such as an Olympic-sized swimming pool, state-of-the-art multi-purpose community center, kids’ playground, football pitch, jogging tracks, green spaces, food courts, parking spaces, and a police post.

The project include 816 housing units featuring one bedroom, two bedrooms, three bedrooms and commercial spaces

According to the developer and CEO Megna Homes Ahmed Badawy the project will help in changing the public perception and image of insecurity that has for a long time been associated with the area.

"This project is not merely a housing development.  it is a strategic investment in the future of Kisauni. It will boost local employment, enhance infrastructure, and provide modern amenities." said Badawy.

Adding "The project aims to stimulate economic growth and attract further investments to Kisauni”

Mining and Blue economy Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho is expected to break ground for the project.

By Ifeanyi Odoh, Country President, Schneider Electric East Africa

Impact entrepreneurs are those individuals that have clearly defined goals, using ethical and business principles to address social and environmental challenge, driving progress towards the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

It is admirable, and goes beyond what is, traditionally, regarded as successful business operations and resultant profit-making.

Impact entrepreneurs have a deeper purpose; their motivation extends beyond a vocational or business calling.

As an example, an energy engineer may choose their career path not just for a paycheck but to also contribute to solving a country’s power crisis.

The concept of impact or social entrepreneurship stretches back centuries: in the 19th and early 20th centuries, individuals engaged in social entrepreneurship were commonly labelled as philanthropists or social reformers.

However, it wasn't until the latter part of the 20th century that the term "social entrepreneurship" started to become widely recognised, driven by factors such as globalisation, advancements in technology, and increased awareness of social and environmental concerns.

It is good for business

Impact entrepreneurship also has constructive effect on business.

According to Ideas From Europe (IFE), a knowledge-based inspirational platform by the Sustainable Scale-Up Foundation, impact entrepreneurship strengthens customer and client relationship.

“Businesses are increasingly held accountable for their social and environmental impact, and customers prefer brands actively contributing to positive change. This extends to B2B relationships where shared values around social and environmental goals are becoming more significant,” says IFE.

So, when summing up impact entrepreneurship, what are some the key characteristics of these individuals and business?

Here are three important elements:

1. Impact entrepreneurs identify pressing social issues, such as unemployment, energy access, or climate change. They innovate solutions that address these challenges sustainably.
2. Ethics matter: impact entrepreneurs prioritise ethical practices, ensuring that their businesses positively impact society.
3. Impact entrepreneurs also seek collaboration. They are constantly engaging with industry leaders to leverage expertise and resources. To this end, knowledge sharing, and ecosystem partnerships enhance their ability to create meaningful change.

 From a monetary perspective, successful impact entrepreneurs are also incubators. These businesses or individuals provide financial support to ventures that are aligned with their social and environmental goals. This, in turn, allows these impact entrepreneurs to scale their initiatives and also implement lasting change.

It’s good for energy

Looking closer at impact entrepreneurs’ role in the energy landscape, these individuals drive innovation by developing sustainable and clean energy solutions. Their startups often introduce novel technologies, business models, and practices that enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Second, impact entrepreneurs have the potential to attract investment to the energy sector. Their ventures demonstrate the viability of sustainable energy solutions, encouraging further funding and partnership.

Third, impact entrepreneurs often engage with local communities, addressing their energy needs and ensuring equitable access. They work closely with underserved populations, promoting social inclusion and energy justice.

Last, by building networks and collaborating with other stakeholders, impact entrepreneurs have the potential to strengthen the energy ecosystem. They connect with investors, policymakers, academia, and larger companies, fostering a supportive environment for sustainable energy initiatives.

At home

East Africa needs more impact entrepreneurs who can foster an environment that empowers the youth to become engineers, electricians and other skilled professionals. They would truly lead by example, reinforcing the importance of positive transformation.

As a first step, by offering vocational training in conjunction with TVET Institutions. Though some of the candidates move to the job market after training, a good number of trainees become entrepreneurs in the electrical and technical fields. Building entrepreneurial skills, among these strata, then becomes a top priority.

Impact entrepreneurs have the potential to make a significant mark on East Africa’s changing energy landscape; they drive change by leveraging technology, collaborating with partners, and addressing critical energy issues in an ethical and sustainable manner.

The 2024 Kenya edition of Red Bull Dance Your Style - the biggest urban street dance competition in the world, came to a close at a hotly contested finals event over the past weekend in Nairobi (10 August 2024).

Samuel Brian of The Legitz emerged winner after a final battle with first runner up Pessa Vanessa to become Kenya’s ultimate winner.

The event held at SK8city Diamond Plaza II, drew a full house with the audience composed of members of Kenya’s thriving dance community; from dance groups, choreographers to influencers, alongside media and fans of urban dance who came to witness the spectacle. 

Soon after being crowned Kenya’s urban dance champ Samuel Brian of The Legitz shared, “The competition was not just epic but it exceeded all my expectations. Reaching this point [and my win] highlights the immense talent in Kenya’s dance industry and I applaud Red Bull Dance Your Style for setting the standard with every edition.” He also advised aspiring dancers to stay committed to their faith and keep practicing diligently, adding, “There is no other way to succeed.”

This year’s edition of the competition launched in March in an event that featured international Red Bull dancer and world champion Stalamuerte from Switzerland.

After this, a series of epic battles followed the competition on a nationwide tour across the Kenyan top cities of Eldoret, Mombasa, Kisumu and Nairobi for the search of the most talented urban street dancer.

The search culminated in the national finals event held last weekend which brought to the dance floor top winners and selected wild cards from past qualifier events and online auditions.

51 countries will be participating in the world finals happening in Mumbai, India (9 November 2024) where Samuel Brian will represent Kenya for a chance to become the global winner of Red Bull Dance Your Style 2024.

Red Bull Dance Your Style is a unique competition with no judges other than the spectating crowd, who decide who wins by voting for their favorite dancers by holding up blue or red placards to choose a winner, after each battle.

Dancers bring their authenticity, attitude and creativity alongside freestyle and musical skills in the competition that allows all urban dance styles except for break dancing and has the DJ playing unpredictable music. 

Following two highly successful Uganda- Kenya tourism conferences held in the coastal towns of Mombasa and Diani, the third edition is now set to take place in Kampala, Uganda, this November.

The first Uganda –Kenya Coast Tourism Conference was held on November 17, 2022, at Pride Inn Hotel in Mombasa, and the second Conference took place from November 13- 14, 2023 in Diani, Kwale County.

The third Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism Conference is set to take place at the prestigious Speke Resort and Convention Center in Munyonyo, Kampala on November 20 – 21.

On Tuesday, the Uganda government launched a campaign to attract at least 500 Kenyan tourism stakeholders and investors to attend this year’s event.

The campaign was officially launched by the Uganda Consul General at the Kenyan Coast, Ambassador Paul Mukumbya, alongside key tourism stakeholders from both nations in Mombasa.

Speaking at the launch, Ambassador Mukumbya highlighted Uganda's strong commitment to strengthening tourism ties with Kenya.

"This year's venue reflects how seriously we in Uganda take the Kenyan market," Mukumbya stated, urging all tourism stakeholders to register for the event.

He noted that the registration portal had already seen over 300 registrations, with expectations of reaching the 500-participant limit soon.

The conference aims to build on the successes of previous editions held in Mombasa and Diani, which have played a crucial role in enhancing cross-border tourism and trade between the two countries.

"In the past, diplomats used to engage in political diplomacy. However, we are now focusing on what we call economic and commercial diplomacy, which can only be done physically when you are on the ground,” said Mukumbya.

He said Kenya is Uganda’s number one source market for tourists, and Uganda is Kenya’s second biggest tourism source market.

In 2023, over 490,000 Kenyans visited Uganda, whereas 201,620 Ugandans visited Kenya.

"There is an opportunity to grow these numbers if the two countries work together,” said Mukumbya.

Dr Sam Ikwaye, the Executive Director of the Kenya Association of Hotelkeepers and Caterers (KAHC), emphasized the importance of fostering trust and collaboration among tourism stakeholders, noting the positive impact of familiarization trips and business-to-business engagements facilitated by the conference.

 "The confidence levels among stakeholders have risen, enabling Kenyan and Ugandan operators to develop and exchange tourism packages effectively," he said.

He said tourism opens up the doors for many other economic activities.

“We are hoping that many more Kenyans, many more hoteliers, the county governments are going to support by sending huge delegations to Uganda in November to be able to participate in this conference and share knowledge, share experiences. Truth is there's so much to learn amongst ourselves,” said Ikwaye.

Gertrude Shuwe, the Tourism County Executive Committee (CEC) member from Taita Taveta, highlighted the unique attractions of Taita Taveta County.

She encouraged Ugandan tourists to explore the region's hidden treasures, including battlefield tourism sites and the Big Five in the Tsavo National Park.

“We have so much more to offer beyond the beaches," Shuwe said, underscoring the potential for cross-border tourism to drive economic growth and job creation.

In addition to tourism promotion, the Uganda Consulate in Mombasa is organizing a trade and investment mission to Uganda early next year.

This initiative aims to attract Kenyan businesspeople and manufacturers to explore opportunities in Uganda, further strengthening the economic ties between the two nations.

In a bid to expand it's goal of youth transformation and empowerment, the Swahilipot Hub has launched a new radio station dedicated to the youth.

The launch of the station based at the Imaara building coincided with the International youth celebration.

According to the Head of partnership and resource mobilisation at Swahilipot Hub Rukia Jamal the station will also act as a source of income for the Swahilipot hub.

"Our staff will mainly be youth, as you are aware our main goal as Swahilipot has always been to create opportunities and also empower our youth." said Rukia.

Adding "Apart from that, we also want to have this as our source of revenue for the hub."

The official opening was graced by first daughter Charlene Ruto and the C.E.O national youth council Margaret Kiogora.

The new radio station will be broadcasting in Swahili and English.

Swahilipot Fm broadcasts on 91.7 Frequency Modulation (FM) in Mombasa, Malindi, Kwale, Kilifi and Tana River. Taita Taveta 91.5 fm and Lamu 91.9 fm.