Kenya has retained the overall title of the Mombasa Open Tong-IL Moo-Do International Martial Arts Championship title after being declared the overall winners.

Jasiri harvested 191 medals -46 gold medals,52 silver medals and 93 Bronze medals to emerge overall winners of the 2023 edition which was attended by 13 countries from all over the world.

 Zambia team finished second with 10 gold,5 silver and 9 bronze medals to emerge distant second with an overall 23 medals tally while perennial rivals Philippines ended in third position with 5 gold medals,2 silver and 4 broze medals.

Iran were fourth with 4 gold medals,6 silver and 4 broze ahead of the India team which bagged only 5  medals of 4 gold, and  1 bronze. South America's Paraguay team settled sixth in the log with 3 gold medals, and 3 bronze.

In other teams Nigeria who settled seventh got 2 gold medals and 2 silver ahead of Japan who got overall 2 medals , DRC 1 medal  and Brazil  3 medals in the eighth nine and 10 positions respectively.

Others countries who performed dismally are Asia continent representatives South Korea with a total of 1 medal, Thailand I medal and Africa’s Cote D’Ivoire who fumbled to go home  without any medal.

Addressing the media after completion of the tournament, Kenya Tong Ill Moodo federation president Master Clarence Mwakio said the focus is on nurturing fresh talents who will feature in the next year’s event.

The Africa federation president said the event which attracted all the continents of the globe was a success. He however hinted that next year’s event will be held in August to avoid December holiday rush.

“We are very happy that number of teams managed to reach Mombasa, as we know its high holiday season, one lesson we have learnt is that hosting the event during the August is the best option, so from next year we will revert to our original plan August summer season where there is minimal air traffic,” said Mwakio.

Mwakio thanked the government for continued support for the past 11 editions held in Kenya. He said starting January next year the federation will hit the ground running in nurturing grassroots talents by hosting weekly events in all counties.

“In the calendar of 2024 events, we want to request the ministry to join us so that we can have weekly events in all counties, weekly training clinics so that instructors can travel in counties to scout for future instructors who can scout for new talents from schools,” said Mwakio .

The Africa president said so far 12 countries are taking part adding that Kenya will soon lead the continent in African tong il moo do championship which will open the door for all Africa games and Olympics competitions in the near future.

“Kenya is leading from the front and I believe it will be a celebration when Kenya takes part in all African games with Tong Il Moo do and wins more medals in the All Africa games,”said Mwakio.

Speaking on behalf of the government deputy director department of sports Jackson Idakwa affirmed the government’s commitment towards supporting the sport. He said the ministry is committed to developing sports.

“This is one of the tourist destinations and hosting such an event enhances the tourism element,as a government we are committed to give them the necessary support they need,”said Idakwa.

Wines of South Africa hosted it's third Cap Classique in the Coastal city of Mombasa on Wednesday last week.

The event which went down at the Tamarind Hotel aimed at showcasing different Cap Classique brands  attracted connoisseurs, captains of industry, consumers, distributors and wine producers.

A total of 12 wine producers including Simonsig, Nitida,  Domaine des Dieux, Vergelegen, Villiera, Black Elephant Vintners, Graham Beck, LOmatins, Ken Forrester,  Kleine Zalze, Mara Celebration participated in the event.

Prior to the wine tasting cocktail, a group of wine distributors and agents were taken through a training to equip them with the necessary skills.

Speaking during the event, Wines of South Africa  Marketing Manager Africa Matome Mbatha said they have started expanding their business to Mombasa.

"This is a strategic approach. Wines of South Africa is connected in Kenya primarily in Nairobi and we have been now starting to roll out as part of our expansion program into Mombasa." said Matome.

Adding " This (Mombasa) is another booming county for us and this is evidence that we have indeed made the right call. Tonight is about celebrating and closing off the year with this event. The more we do these activities the more we creating opportunities to Kenyans to explore more the South African wine. We also want to create career and job opportunities for the youth."

Kenya Tong Il Moo Do president Master Clarence Mwakio says the Tong Il Moo Do sport has continued to get global recognition by various Africa and world governments.

The Africa president of the sport expressed hopes that the sport will soon make its way to Olympics consideration and become one of the most competitive sports.

Master Mwakio on Monday evening also said Kenya has set a good example by successfully hosting such a huge tournament for 11 successive years in Mombasa city. 

 “We are happy to have delegates from different countries and many participants from different countries, we began well and the competition ended successfully,” said master Mwakio who has played a pivotal role in supporting team Kenya in the tournament.

The federation official continued to applaud the government through the ministry of sports for the support of the competition over the years. He further applauded the media for its continued support to the publicity.

Speaking on the sidelines of the competition, World federation president Grand Master Takamitsu Hoshiko said the sport which is gaining popularity globally is significant to inspire peace and harmony across continents.

“It’s a very timely tournament, we have just concluded the 60 th celebration of the independence of Kenya, so it's very important because we want to support youth, inspire unity for purpose and send the message to Africa and the world that the sport unites the globe,” said Hoshiko.

Team Jasiri continued to exert good results in both day one and day two when Jambia Ali (6.30 points) emerged third followed by Harrington Wanjala (5.80 points) and Sudi Mohammed (5.00 points) took the stage with action.

Kenya seeks to retain the title it won last year after emerging overall winner.Second position went to Philippines who have remained Kenya’s arch rivals over the years.

The championship with participants from around the world concludes on Tuesday with winners bagging gold, silver and bronze medals.

The awards will be issued in accordance with the sport guidelines in the presence of world Tong Il Moo Do president Grand Master Takamitsu Hoshiko.

Late last year (2022) Bongo star Mbosso came out and opened about his battle with a chronic heart disease.

Speaking during an  interview with Wasafi media, the celebrated singer explained that he suffers from a heart condition, arteriosclerosis, that often leaves him with excruciating pain in his chest as well as uncontrollable hand twitching.

Atherosclerosis is a heart problem brought about by the build-up of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls. This build-up is called plaque.

The plaque can cause arteries to narrow, blocking blood flow. The plaque can also burst, leading to a blood clot.

"I have a very big problem with my heart but I thank God that I am able to exercise and at least keep fit. Although I get strength from regular exercises, the same exercise causes me so much pain. I can go to bed sometimes and wake up with so much pain on my left side," he said.

Adding ""It's a condition that I have had for a really long time and only those closest to me are aware. My mom knows, the women I parent with know because sometimes when we we're just chilling at night I get the attacks and I have to share what I am experiencing."

This condition saw his postpone one of his major show in the US.

"The doctor recommended that I should not travel or sit in a plane for more than eight hours," he announced.

Well, the singer now has good news for his fans. Speaking to members of the press after landing at the Moi International airport on Sunday ahead of the Rashid Abdallah super cup finals, Mbosso revealed that he is currently doing well and there is no cause of alarm.

"Nashkuru Mungu kwa sasa niko vizuri kama unavyoniona (I thank God that I'm now doing okay as you can see )". said Mbosso

Award-winning Nigerian star and one of the new gen’s most exciting breakthrough artists Bnxn (fka BUJU) has dropped his highly anticipated 15-track debut album, ‘Sincerely, Benson.’.

The formidable Afrofusion singer penned every single lyric on the project, whilst working with a collection of A-List producers, including Jae5, Sarz, ATG, Guiltybeatz, Leriq, Davinchiii, Denzl, Blaisebeatz, Tempoe, Magicsticks and Dro amongst others.

Sincerely, Benson’ is a masterclass in vocals and musicality as the singer opens up and lets us explore his world.

Bnxn set the tone early on with ‘Gwagwalada’ featuring Kizz Daniel and Seyi Vibez, which dropped in February and has been on a winning streak ever since.

True to his reputation as a hitmaker, ‘Sincerely, Benson’ is bursting with singles that will make it a debut that stands the test of time.

'Sincerely, Benson’ includes a handpicked selection of features, including UK rapper Headie One, Taves, Nigerian superstar 2Baba and Jamaican singer Popcaan. Speaking on ‘Sincerely, Benson.’ Bnxn said, “This is as sincere as it gets”.

Since dropping his ‘Sorry I’m Late’ EP in 2021, Bnxn has gone from strength to strength, dropping his widely acclaimed ‘Bad Since 97’ EP (total career streams 1.5 Billion) and being awarded the 2022 Headies Next Rated Artist.

Bnxn is now one of Nigeria’s most recognisable voices, achieving success both within the continent and internationally.

Over the last few years, the Lagos singer has released a growing body of work that pushes back against conventional modes of African music and in doing so, he has created an instantly recognisable sound.

He has completely switched up the game, becoming one of the biggest and most internationally known names in the new wave of stars.

Following his recent acclaimed singles, ‘Pray’ and 'GWAGWALADA' which both feature on the album, last month Bnxn collaborated with UK artist Stefflon Don on ‘Whats Poppin’ which has created an undeniable buzz in the UK and received 6M streams to date.

He is showing no signs of slowing down, and to celebrate the release of his album, Bnxn has announced a headline show at London's iconic venue, The Roundhouse on the 18th of November.

This show will follow the ‘Sincerely, Benson’ US tour, where he will perform the album across 13 venues throughout October and November.

The EU and Kenya today signed an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) to boost bilateral trade in goods, increase investment flows, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

The EPA provides a platform to support job creation on both sides, along with targeted cooperation to enhance Kenya's economic development. It is the most ambitious trade deal ever signed by the EU with a developing country when it comes to sustainability provisions such as climate and environmental protection, labour rights and gender equality.

The signature took place during an official ceremony in Nairobi with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Kenyan President Dr. William Samoei Ruto.

The EU is Kenya's first export destination and second largest trading partner, with a total of €3.3 billion in bilateral trade in 2022 - an increase of 27% compared to 2018. The EPA will create even more opportunities for Kenyan businesses and exporters, as it will fully open the EU market for Kenyan products upon entry into force. It will also incentivise EU investment in Kenya thanks to increased legal certainty and stability.

Kenya has played a pioneering role in driving sustainability efforts on the African continent and is a reliable ally in the fight against climate change. It co-leads the Coalition of Trade Ministers on Climate initiative launched earlier this year, together with the EU and other partners. The EU-Kenya EPA builds on this strong track record and is the first agreement with a developing country in which the EU's new approach to trade and sustainable development is reflected.

The balanced agreement takes into account Kenya's development needs by providing a longer period to gradually open its market. It also includes a special safeguard for agriculture, food security and infant industry. A dedicated chapter has been included on economic and development cooperation, aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of the Kenyan economy.

Together with EU development assistance, this will help build capacity and assist Kenya in implementing the EPA smoothly, while supporting local farmers in meeting EU standards and in reaping the opportunities this agreement provides.

The agreement corresponds to the Commission's commitment to step up engagement with partners and regions in Africa. The aim is to enhance sustainable trade links between both continents and within Africa itself, thereby meeting key objectives for both the EU-Africa relationship and the green transition.

President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said: “Kenya is a key partner for the European Union in Africa. The new Economic Partnership Agreement will boost bilateral trade even further, support investments and create good jobs in Kenya. This agreement will also contribute to sustainable and fair economic growth, bringing new opportunities for companies, to the benefit of both our people. It includes the strongest social and climate commitments of any EU trade deal with an African country.”

Next steps

The EPA will be transmitted to the European Parliament for consent. The agreement will subsequently enter into force. 

Background

The Economic Partnership Agreement between the EU and Kenya aims to implement the provisions contained in the EU-East African Community (EAC) EPA, and will be open for other EAC countries to join in the future.

The EPA and its ambitious commitments represent a crucial deliverable of the current EU Trade Agenda, in particular the goal of enhancing trade relations with Africa, helping the EU to deepen and expand its current trade agreements with African countries, and enhancing their sustainability objectives.

The Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi has assured the Diaspora community that the Kenya Kwanza government will always be ready to engage with them, listen to their positive and objective criticism and work on the feedback to make Kenya a better place to call home.

Speaking at the gala night held on Friday evening to celebrate the successful conclusion of the 3-Day Diaspora Investment Conference in Nairobi, Dr. Mudavadi said President William Ruto's administration has allowed open and candid conversation among Kenyans to enable the government to serve its citizens better.

"The Diaspora and other stakeholders in Kenya's transformative journey are dedicated to fostering a strong and resilient nation. Through constructive engagements, they harness the diverse talents, skills, and global experiences each individual brings" He said

Harmonizing with President William Samoei Ruto's clarion call for digitization and export-led investment, Mudavadi said the discussions have not merely been talks, they are the genesis of strategic initiatives aligning with the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda.

The thematic sessions, according to Dr. Mudavadi, have unveiled unique perspectives, cultivating an environment for the diaspora community to seize transformative investment opportunities.

He noted, "It has enabled you to connect with others, to share information, learn from the experiences of others, and collectively envision strategies that transcend individual perspectives."

This interconnectedness forms the very foundation for collaborative endeavours in realizing BETA’s vision of uplifting the livelihoods of Kenyans.

PCS urged the Diaspora community to leverage networks for socio-economic development across counties

"Your contribution to Kenya’s transformation agenda will support the Government’s aim of improving the livelihoods of millions of Kenyans, particularly in rural areas," he said.

As the Diaspora embarks on this transformative journey, the enduring impact of their contributions, extending far beyond remittances, becomes palpable. 

Mudavadi's vision for a more resilient Kenya is not merely a call to action, it signifies a collective commitment to surmounting emerging challenges and steering the nation towards sustained economic growth.

Global Afropop superstar Yemi Alade asserts her renowned musical prowess in her new EP ‘Mamapiano’ and now ventures into Amapiano.

She experiments successfully with four brand new tracks.

She says, “Mamapiano EP is the soundtrack to set the mood for the rest of the year into 2024. Just press play and I'll do the rest. These four tracks carry rhythm and melodies that accompany you everywhere regardless of the occasion.”

She adds, “I just wrapped up my 40 country USA / Europe tour and I decided to end the year on a high with a playlist-gift from me to you. This EP will certainly set the perfect mood and I assure you won't need to skip a beat.”

She flaunts a mesmerizing melody in the self-affirmation and gospel-inspired song titled “Mind Ova Mata (Amazing Grace)”.

While at it, she praises God for His love and grace, picking her up whenever she is down, and giving her hope and the ability to conquer.

“EFCC” is a party song that promises to be an instant Tik Tok success.

The lyrics can be likened to lovers' quarrel composed like an ideal conversation.

"Get up” is a cocktail of genres (such as Afrobeat, Dance, Amapiano, Hip hop, Pop) and one can easily see the Michael Jackson flair Yemi Alade delivers this track with.

The track is infectious and quite the party favorite.

On “Ogini” she recounts a night spent with her girlfriends to celebrate her birthday.

The song highlights the key elements including partying, extravagant spending and enjoying the moment.

In 2023, Yemi continues her reign on the continental music charts, with a collection of hits maintaining their dominance like “Lipeka”, “Fear Love”, “Fake Friends (Iró Òre)”, “Pounds & Dollars” feat Phyno, “Baddie”, “Jo Jo” feat. Bisa K

The County Government of Mombasa in collaboration with the Coventant of Mayors in Sub-Saharan African (COM SSA) on Friday launched the Mombasa City Lab.

The lab is expected to pave way for a co-develop and co-design approach to generate concrete solutions for the city’s complex urban flooding climate adaptation challenge.

The City LAB is also expected to tackle complex, cross-sectoral urban challenges by fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including government, civil society, private sector and academia.

These structured processes aim to generate innovative ideas by co-producing solutions aimed at addressing complex urban issues through a multi-stakeholder consultation process.

Speaking during the event, Mombasa County deputy governor Francis Thoya described the launch of the lab as a pivotal initiative in the county’s journey towards a resilient and sustainable future.

The recent rains and subsequent flooding have reminded us of the urgency to of the challenges we face, especially in the context of climate change.”

“We acknowledge the impact on our communities and recognize the need for comprehensive, collaborative solutions,” said Thoya.

The Mombasa City Lab he said is born out of the recognition of the climate challenges the county faces and is a testament of the county administration to innovation and resilience.

He said it represents a structured participatory process involving the county, academia, civil society, the private sector and local stakeholders.

"Together we aim to co-develop concrete solutions to address our city’s complex urban flooding and

The city lab process is expected to bring relevant stakeholders together to generate and co-develop innovative ideas for how to solve urban issues wherecompeting and conflicting prioritizes are addressed and feasible solutions are generated.

The LAB during the implementation will co-develop and co-design concrete solutions for the city’s complex urban flooding climate adaptation challenge over a period of one year.

Where reasonable and possible, the LAB will take actions towards selected proposed solutions.

"The Mombasa City Lab process is not just a forum, it is a critical intervention, a laboratory for ideas and actions that will lead to transformative outcomes.” Thoya said.

The county executive for Water, natural resources and climate change resilience Dr. Emily Achieng said that the lab has come at an opportune time as the county grapples with looking for solutions to problems affecting the county.

"The lab is going to look at the complexity of a problem and who can solve it. As a county we have taken strokes and we are adjusting our budget to factor in social programs in order to assist people affected by the recent floods,” said Achieng.

She said her department was already putting plans in motion to implement the recently launched Mombasa Climate Change Action Plan adding that several bills will be brought into the county assembly of Mombasa for adaptation.

She added that she was working closely with the department of lands to ensure that even the 6.9 per cent emissions coming from buildings is reduced by first quarter of next year.

The action plan she said is not only for her department and the county, but all stakeholders in Mombasa.

"We will gazette new green building codes by the first quarter of next year and all stakeholders will abide by it to reduce emissions.”

“With our partners GIZ, we have finished mapping the energy load from county buildings, we are looking at renewable energy alternatives, because as a government we want to lead from the front,” Achieng said.

Irene Garibaldi, the head of cooperation European Union delegation to Kenya said that the launch of the Lab will help to address the consequences of climate change in Mombasa.

She lauded the county government of Mombasa for spearheading initiatives to address effects of climate change locally.

"The floods witnessed recently have showed us the negative effects of climate change. I want to confirm to you that the EU is committed to work with counties to support inclusive and resilience urbanization, improve energy planning, reduce multination and help achieve local development agendas,” said Garibaldi.

She added that in the just concluded COP28 discussions in Dubai, the EU has committed about Sh3 billion for the covenant of mayors in sub-Saharan Africa.

The Covenant of Mayors in Sub-Saharan Africa (CoM SSA), is the largest global network of cities committed to tackle the intricate challenges posed by impacts of climate change and inequitable energy access.

CoM SSA is part of the Global Covenant of Mayors, an initiative of 13,000+ cities taking ambitious climate action.

Support to CoM SSA is co-funded by the European Union and Germany and co-implemented by GIZ in Kenya.