As the Managing Director of Crown Relocations South Africa, a leading force in international relocation, Ian Pettey has witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs that come with moving families across borders. International relocations represent not just a change in geography but a profound shift in culture, lifestyle, and identity.

In this era of globalisation, where mobility is increasingly common, the ability to navigate cultural differences with sensitivity and understanding has become more crucial than ever.

At the heart of successful international relocations lies a concept known as cultural intelligence (CQ). Cultural intelligence goes beyond mere awareness of cultural differences; it encompasses the ability to adapt and thrive in diverse cultural settings. In the context of international relocations, a high level of cultural intelligence can mean the difference between a smooth transition and a rocky adjustment period.

So, what does cultural intelligence entail, and how can it be applied in the international relocations sector?

Primarily, cultural intelligence involves developing a deep understanding of the cultural nuances of both the home and host countries. This goes beyond surface-level knowledge of customs and traditions; it requires an appreciation of the underlying values, norms, and communication styles that shape daily interactions. For individuals considering moving to another country, investing time in learning about the local culture can greatly facilitate their integration process.

Communication skills also play a pivotal role in fostering cultural intelligence. Effective communication involves not only speaking the language but also understanding the nuances of non-verbal communication, such as body language and facial expressions. In the context of international relocations, something as basic as being able to communicate effectively with local colleagues, neighbours, and service providers can significantly ease the transition and build meaningful connections in the new environment.

Building cultural competency among expatriates is another essential aspect of successful integration following international relocations. Cultural competency goes beyond awareness and communication skills; it involves the ability to adapt your own behaviour and mindset to effectively interact with individuals from different cultural backgrounds.

This might involve attending cultural orientation programs, seeking out cross-cultural training, or engaging in immersive experiences that expose individuals to diverse perspectives.

Expatriates should seek assistance from organisations that facilitate cultural exchange programs and networking opportunities to help them build connections and forge relationships with locals. By participating in cultural events, community gatherings, and networking sessions, opportunities arise for expatriates to immerse themselves in the local culture, expand their social circles, and build meaningful connections in their new environment.

One key aspect of cultural relocation support is the provision of comprehensive cultural orientation programs. These programs are designed to familiarize expatriate families with the cultural norms, customs, and traditions of their destination country. From understanding local etiquette to navigating social norms, cultural orientation programs offer invaluable insights that help expatriates adapt more seamlessly to their new environment.

In-person language training programs are an excellent way to help expatriates overcome language barriers and communicate effectively in their new surroundings. Whether through one-on-one tutoring sessions or group language classes, language training equips expatriates with the linguistic skills necessary to engage with local communities and navigate daily interactions with confidence.

I must emphasise the importance of ongoing support and guidance throughout the relocation process. For example, having a dedicated team of relocation and cultural specialists on hand to provide assistance and advice, whether it’s navigating bureaucratic hurdles or adjusting to cultural differences can make the transition as seamless as possible.

Global relocations agents are well versed in facilitating smooth transitions by offering comprehensive cultural orientation programs tailored to the specific needs of each family. From language classes to cross-cultural communication workshops, they equip clients with the tools and resources they need to thrive in their new environment.

Companies who employ large numbers of expatriates can facilitate cultural exchange programs and networking opportunities to help expatriates build connections and forge relationships with locals. By organising cultural events, community gatherings, and networking sessions, these companies create opportunities for expatriates to immerse themselves in the local culture, expand their social circles, and build meaningful connections in their new environment.

By incorporating these cultural relocation services into their offerings, employers can play a pivotal role in easing the transition for expatriate families and ensuring their success in their new cultural contexts. By providing comprehensive support that addresses the unique challenges of cultural relocation, these companies empower expatriates to embrace their new surroundings with confidence and adaptability resulting in more productive employees.

Cultural intelligence is not just a buzzword; it’s a fundamental skill set that can make or break international relocations. By fostering cultural awareness, communication skills, and building cultural competency among expatriates, we can ensure that individuals and their families embark on their relocation journey with confidence and grace.

East African Community Partner States have been urged to support local investors to help seek local solutions to local problems in the region.

East Africa Legislative Assembly (EALA) Mp James Milya, from Tanzania argued that local investors are up to the task if given the opportunity by relevant governments to undertake and drive investments in the region.

Speaking in Mombasa during a tour of the Buxton housing project by the  EALA Committee on Communication, Trade, and Investment, Milya said as a committee they will seek to implore to member partners to support local investors.

The Buxton housing project in Mombasa, Kenya is a project initiated by EALA Mp Suleiman Shahbal who is also the Chairman, EALA Committee on Communication, Trade, and Investment

"We have been here touring this nice housing project and this is a clear indication that we now need to have confidence and give the opportunity to our local investors. This is a very good project initiated by a local investor" said Milya.

Adding "Why should we always rely on foreign investors yet we have the potential locally".

His sentiments were echoed with her counterpart representing South Sudan Deng Nhial who called on other EAC member states to emulate the housing project.

"This project showcases what can actually be done by local private investors and we would like to see such projects initiated in other member states" said Mp Nhial.

Adding "Personally I think it is an exciting project to be emulated."

On EAC adopting a policy on affordable housing project Nhial stated " I think we should now adopt a policy on such projects and ensure that all our member states can benefit from them.

On his part Mp James Kakooza called on the members states to come up with good policies and regulations on how to deal with the rural urban migration arguing that it has been the main cause of the housing challenge in the region.

"In our member states we have what we call rural to urban migration. Many people are coming to towns from rural areas and our governments have not been investing properly in housing to accommodate this people, so if a local investor can do it then it is very good and I hope this can spill over to other member states since we all face similar challenges" said Kakooza.

Bamburi Cement PLC has joined the Ministry of Health, Mombasa County’s Department of Public Health, Kenya Red Cross, USAID and a host of other partners to help eliminate cervical cancer within a generation in Mombasa County.

The collective stakeholder campaign aims to create awareness and lower the prevalence of the killer disease in the region as the country marks the Kenya National Cancer Awareness month.

Cervical cancer ranks as the second most frequent cancer among women in Kenya from the ages of 15 to 44 years.

More than 100,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year in sub-Saharan Africa and at least 9 succumb to it every day, according to World Health Organisation’s (WHO) HPV Information Center.

Speaking following a Cervical Cancer Awareness Walk in Mombasa County and a handover of assorted medical supplies to the County Government of Mombasa, Bamburi Cement Plc’s Mombasa Plant Manager Deepak Jasuja said the company is reinforcing its cancer awareness efforts and community health programs in the County.

“As part of our enduring commitment to continue eliminating cancer in the region, we have recently renovated and equipped the Bamburi Cement Cancer Center within the Coast General Hospital which ensures that patients in Mombasa and from across the country have access to specialised cancer treatment and management services,” said Mr.Jasuja.

Additionally, the company in collaboration with the Department of Health in Mombasa County has rolled out a two-week free-to-public cervical cancer screening clinic at its Bamburi Cement Staff Clinic in Bamburi Area.

According to Bamburi Cement Plc’s Health Manager Dr. Diana Ruchugo, the initiative’s proactive approach will contribute to reducing disease burdens and advocating for preventive healthcare.

“Early detection and prevention of cervical cancer not only enhances the well-being of our mothers and daughters in the community but also nurtures a healthier community, in accordance with the targets outlined in Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3. It not only showcases our dedication as Bamburi Cement to social welfare but also tackles a pivotal public health concern related to prevention and health promotion,” said Dr. Ruchugo.

With escalating annual cancer rates at the Coast and around the country, Bamburi Cement Cancer Centre has impacted over 77,000 cancer patients directly since it was unveiled as the first fully-fledged Cancer Centre in the former Coast province and the third in the country. It provides chemotherapy and other can

By Saul Wamalwa, Regional Manager for West, East and Central Africa at Commvault

Since data is considered to be the new oil, good data management is key for businesses operating in Kenya as it enables improved organisational agility, better and faster decision making and quicker problem-solving based on accurate, up-to-date information.

There are very few businesses today that do not leverage some elements of data within their day-to-day operations, and organisations now have huge potential to gather, store and analyse data to learn more about consumer behaviour, market trends and other important aspects that have an impact on their operations.

According to DataReportal, there were 17.86 million internet users in Kenya at the start of 2023, with internet penetration at 32.7%, which is one of the highest in East Africa.

With the correct data management tools and tactics, businesses in the country can exploit this abundance of data to improve efficiency, cut costs and increase profitability.

Effective data management practices translate into information that is simple to access, to analyse and gain useful insights that can guide business decisions.

This may entail spotting patterns, projecting future expansions and highlighting potential improvement zones for the organisation.

Visibility of data assets

Additionally, proper data management can boost the visibility of a company’s data assets, which makes it easier to quickly find the right data for any specific analysis.

Data visibility not only allows an enterprise to be more organised and productive, but also enables its employees to find the information they need to better do their jobs.

Unfortunately, many organisations in Kenya – across both the public and private sectors – still lack insight and understanding of where some of their critical data resides.

This means that sensitive information can easily end up on unauthorised devices or email accounts outside of the organisation, without the organisation even being aware of this.

This naturally increases the chances of a data breach, which can have various negative consequences.

Probably the biggest risk associated with data breaches is reputational damage, which can lead to a loss of existing customers and the inability to attract new ones, which will have an adverse effect on a business’s bottom line.

In addition, the loss of sensitive customer data could also result in fines and penalties being levied by regulators, depending on the particular industry sector.

Security and privacy

Data security and privacy are important functions of data management, which should be an important consideration for businesses in Kenya, as there are a growing number of regulations that are being introduced around data and how it should be processed and stored.

Effective data management includes deploying the right authentication and encryption tools that are key to protecting an organisation and its employees from data loss, theft and breaches.

Robust data security also ensures that critical enterprise data is backed up and can be recovered in the event that the primary source becomes unavailable.

Organisations should also be aware that security becomes increasingly important when their data contains any personally identifiable information that needs to be carefully managed.

However, besides ensuring that effective data management practices are in place, organisations should also review and update these measures regularly to ensure that their sensitive information is always handled and stored securely.

Updating and reviewing data management practices is essential in a threat landscape that constantly changes as hackers continue to find creative ways to compromise IT environments.

Ultimately, data management should be top of mind for businesses in Kenya, because when data is organised properly, it is simple to access, analyse and can be used to gain useful insights that can guide business choices that will give an organisation a competitive edge.

The acclaimed and new ‘The Color Purple’ movie has finally come to East Africa–brought to you by Warner Bros. Pictures International and distributed by Crimson Multimedia Ltd in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and Zambia, following a successful American premiere (Dec 25 2023).

A star-studded Kenyan premiere hosted by Pinky Ghelani and themed ‘Women Wear Pants’ took place in Nairobi at Century Cinemax Two Rivers Mall, on Friday.

Prepare to be taken through a roller coaster of emotions and unhinged drama in the astounding masterpiece that gives a bold new take on the beloved classic - American musical and novel.

The period drama movie features celebrated and distinct stars including Taraji P. Henson (Empire), Danielle Brooks (Orange is the New Black), Colman Domingo (Passing Strange), Halle Bailey (The Little Mermaid), Corey Hawkins (The Walking Dead), Fantasia Barrino (American Idol), H.E.R (Judas and the Black Messiah) and Phylicia Pearl Mpasi (The Lion King Broadway).

Kenyan movie and musical lovers can watch ‘The Color Purple’ at several Kenyan Cinemas from Feb 9, 2024. In Nairobi catch the film at Westgate Cinema, Century Cinemax Two Rivers, Century Cinemax Garden City, Century Cinemax Sarit Centre, Century Cinemax The Junction, Motion Cinema Greenspan Mall, Prestige Cinema, Anga Cinema CBD, Anga Cinema Diamond Plaza, Anga Cinema and Panari Centre. In Mombasa watch ‘The Color Purple’ at Nyali Cinemax and if you’re in Eldoret it will be showing at Rupa Cinema Rupa Mall and for those in Kisumu at Mega Cinema Mega Mall.

“We’re excited to bring the film to Cinemas wide across East Africa, and urge audience to watch it on the Big Screen where the visuals, sound and emotions are immersed experience” - Trushna Buddhdev-Patel, Managing Director, Crimson Multimedia Ltd 

Upholding the power of strong female friendships in the face of sexism, violence, love, sex, religion and racism; the film based on an epic novel, depicts the growing up and self-realization of an African-American woman between 1909 and 1947 in a town in rural Georgia. Its main character, Celie, survives rape and abuse at the hands of her father and husband and separation from her children and sister to find fulfillment and independence away.

The drama-endowed film directed by Ghanaian filmmaker and artist Blitz the Ambassador a.k.a. Baz Bazawule orbits around the virtue of sisterhood uniquely. It demonstrates how Celie ultimately finds extraordinary strength in the unbreakable and unshakable bonds of a new kind of sisterhood with support from a sultry singer named  Shug Avery, as well as her stand-her-ground stepdaughter. This is after she faces a mountain of hardships in life including separation from her sister and her children, and being in an abusive marriage. 

Early reviews from Kenyan media personalities came in. “It’s a roller coaster of emotions. It would be the best way to sum up my experience watching The Color Purple”, said June Gachui of Capital FM.  Pinky Ghelani said, “ It truly made me cry as a woman and as a mother.” Shiksha Arora of KBC added her view, “The film is emotionally heavy, its themes of resilience and sisterhood resonate profoundly, making it a thought-provoking cinematic & musical experience.”  

Victoria Commercial Bank PLC  are the title partner of the Kenyan premiere of ‘The Color Purple’ hosted by Pinky Ghelani and What Women Want at Century Cinemax Two Rivers Mall. 

Speaking of this collaboration, Chief Business Officer – Assets - Poonam Shah let on… “The Color Purple - beautifully encapsulates narratives of resilience, empowerment, and the triumph of the human spirit. Victoria Commercial Bank PLC, in its resolute support of these principles, is dedicated to championing the cause of women's empowerment. Our partnership serves as a testament to our commitment to fostering an environment where women not only succeed but thrive.”

A Technical University of Mombasa (TUM)student has been arrested with 300g of heroine, worth ksh 1.2 million.

The 24 - year -old Killian Makuto Dunda was arrested on Wednesday at his Mshomoroni house, Kisauni sub-county while in possesion of the said substance.

"Found wrapped in a clear polythene bag, the brownish/whitish drug which has an estimated street value of Sh1.2 million was tested on site, turning positive for heroin." reads a statement from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

Adding " The exhibit was secured pending further sampling at the government chemist, as the suspect awaits arraignment today."

The student was arrested by Anti-narcotics officers based at the Moi International Airport following an intelligence report.

Trace In the City, a leading cultural and creative education initiative, is thrilled to announce the return of its highly anticipated campus tours.

In an exciting collaboration with the British Council, these tours aim to create enriching opportunities for young people to deepen their understanding of the workings of the cultural and creative industries while fostering knowledge-sharing experiences.

The partnership between Trace Eastern Africa and the British Council underscores a shared commitment to empowering the next generation of creative minds.

The campus tours will provide a unique platform for students to engage with industry experts, participate in masterclasses, and network with professionals in the field.

The objective is to advocate for the creative industries as vital and viable sectors, offering valuable insights into career pathways and opportunities within these dynamic fields.

Speaking about the initiative, Joyce Nzovu, Arts Project Manager Kenya, British Council said: “In collaboration with Trace in the City, the British Council is dedicated to investing in the future by instilling essential skills and supporting the creative economy. We want to provide young individuals with tools to navigate cultural and creative industries, fostering a deeper understanding of career possibilities, contributing to a broader understanding of our impactful work in fostering the arts and promoting employment in the creative sector in the country. "

Key objectives of the campus tours include: Strengthening Understanding: Provide young people with the tools and knowledge to navigate the cultural and creative industries, fostering a deeper comprehension of industry dynamics and career possibilities. Advocacy Through Engagement: Advocate for the creative industries by facilitating masterclasses, networking opportunities, and storytelling through radio and social media campaigns.

These initiatives will highlight the significance and potential of careers in the cultural and creative sectors. Visibility for British Council Arts Programs: Increase the visibility of the British Council's arts programs, opportunities, and platform partners. This collaborative effort will shine a spotlight on the diverse range of initiatives offered by the British Council, contributing to a broader awareness of their impactful work.

The campus tours will kick off at the Technical University of Kenya in Nairobi with a creative industry masterclass spearheaded by John Kaveke, a Kenyan creative whose designs have been known to bring about individualism, strength and artistry.

With over 15 years of expertise in the fashion industry, his stunning masterpieces have graced an international platform of Fashion Week Events in London; United Kingdom, Sarajevo; Bosnia, Lagos & Port Harcourt; Nigeria; Port Louis, Mauritius; Addis Ababa; Ethiopia, Dar es Salam; Tanzania and in Nairobi & Mombasa; Kenya.

Other institutions on the Trace in the City calendar include Egerton university, Mount Kenya University Thika, and Moi university Eldoret.

Each of the 4 campus tours promise to be a transformative experience, shaping the future of aspiring individuals in the cultural and creative sectors. They are each creatively curated to serve as a dynamic platform for students to connect with industry leaders, fostering a supportive ecosystem that encourages creativity and innovation.

Through engaging activities and interactive sessions, participants will gain valuable insights into the inner workings of the creative industries and have the chance to explore potential career paths.

We Cut Keys 2 is the 3rd highly anticipated studio project by Kenyan Producer/Artist and DJ Blinky Bill, who's been pushing the envelope at home and across the globe for a minute now.

Mostly made in Nairobi during the onset of the pandemic, the album continues in the exploratory and experimental nature of the previous projects while tapping into traditional tribal drum sounds, electronic music, hip hop and Jazz. 

The album has a host of impressive features including Ghanaian singer/rapper Fuse ODG, American singer/ rapper GoldLink, Jamaica’s Shauna Fung Yee alongside Kenya’s music legend Maji Maji, rapper Jovie Jovv, jazz trumpeter Owuor Arunga, frequent collaborators of Blinky Bill: Idd Aziz, Muthoni The Drummer Queen and Lisa Oduor Noah, among many others. 

The opening single of the album “Dracula” is an urgent call for the world to unite and ‘Get Up Stand Up’ for their rights. This track shows a signature bounce that overall sonically marks a departure from the previous project ‘Everyone’s Just Winging It And Other Fly Tales’. Second single “Get The Paper” is signature Blinky Bill, a cocktail of Funk, Hip-Hop and Jazz, the visuals for this single are in Blinky’s opinion the highpoint of his visual career. If you have seen his visual journey or heard of it - you know this is a call to rush over to watch the video.

WATCH “GET THAT PAPER” ON YOUTUBE

A chance meeting in Ghana led to Blinky Bill and Fuse ODG (a pioneer of taking Afrobeats to the world) making a party track “Constant K” - where Afrobeats meets Nairobi.

Just before COVID, GoldLink was in Nairobi to perform and a sonic brotherhood of sound was fused between, leading to a bump of a collaboration in “Compare”. 

It took Blinky Bill six years to work on ‘We Cut Keys 2’- a masterpiece mixed by legendary engineer Commissioner Gordon who has won several Grammy awards for his work on Lauryn Hill’s ‘Miseducation of Lauryn Hill’, Amy Winehouse’s ‘Frank’ and Damian Marley’s ‘Welcome to Jamrock’. Mastering of this album was left in the more than capable hands of Tony Dawsey who has mixed Jay-Z’s ‘Black Album’, ‘The Blueprint’, Whitney Houston’s ‘My Love Is Your Love’ and Jay Electronica ‘A Written Testimony’ and many more classic albums.

The album is a box of chocolates, made with the listener in mind with the aim of pushing the envelope for the sounds from Africa. Treat yourself to We Cut Keys 2.

Nominated Senator Miraj Abdillahi has accused Mombasa ODM leaders of incitement.

Speaking to the media on Monday at Pembe za Ndovu, Miraj accused the ODM politicians of inciting Mombasa residents against the government.

Miraj defended the government on the demolitions of houses in Changamwe.

"Chanagmwe is among the estates that were earmarked for affordable house by the former governor Hassan Joho, it is unfortunate that some politicians led by the Women representative have now decided to play politics with the issue." said Miraj.

Adding "Let us stop inciting our people and playing cheap politics. The residents were given notice earlier and some even vacated before the developer came on site. I condemn the police who used force to remove the people from the houses. As Mombasa residents, we are not going to be left behind in the affordable housing project by the government."

The government on Friday last week carried out a demolition exercise in Changamwe to pave way for the disputed affordable housing project.

The tenants say they had been asked to move into complete affordable housing units, on a deposit of Ksh50,000 and monthly rent of Ksh15,000 which they referred to as expensive.

The legislator also accused the leaders of trying to discriminate Mombasa residents on party lines.

"It is very sad to hear our speaker of the county assembly say that school bursaries should only be given to ODM delegates, shame on you Mr Speaker, this is very wrong" said Miraj.

" You cannot discriminate our Children just because of politics, they all deserve the bursaries. Imagine if President could be taking developement projects to only where there are UDA governors, what would happen." 

On Saturday, during Mombasa ODM delegates meeting, Mombasa county assembly speaker Aharub Khatri said the ODM delegates should be given priority in the issuance of bursaries.

"Let us be honest, we need to plan for our people. When issuing out bursaries and other developement projects we need to give them to our ODM members. It is very sad our people miss the bursaries because they have been issued to other parties" said Khatri.