Ommy Dallah
ODM Is Still Strong, Says Shahbal
EALA Mp Suleiman Shahbal has maintained that the ODM party is still strong especially in Mombasa and Coast region contrary to ongoing reports that the party is losing it's grip.
Critics have been arguing that ODM is slowly losing it's grip in the region (Coast) to the ruling party UDA led by President William Ruto.
Speaking on Saturday while attending the weeding of his head of communication team, Ahmed Mohammed, Shahbal cautioned critics against downplaying the ODM party.
"I'm still a member of ODM and anyone who says that ODM is dying does not know the reality on the ground." said Shahbal.
Shahbal who was vying for the Mombasa gubernatorial seat in 2022 but stepped down in favour of the current governor Abdulswamad Nassir called on Mombasa residents to give time to Nassir's administration to deliver on their promises.
Shahbal charged "I think it is still early for us to start judging them, let us give them time then we can start judging them."
During the 2022 general elections ODM won five of the six Mp seats in Mombasa county.
Nyali Mp Mohammed Ali was the only Mp elected on UDA party.
In the County assembly ODM bagged 23 seats, UDA clinched four, two are independent and one for Wiper.
Mombasa ASK Show 2023 To Open Its Doors Wednesday
The Mombasa Agricultural society of Kenya (ASK) show 2023 is set to begin on Wednesday the Mkomani showground.
Agricultural Society of Kenya (ASK) Coast Branch Chairperson Anisa Abdallah said they are ready to receive visitors at the show.
Speaking on Sunday after a special church service at the ACK Cathedral church Mombasa, Anisa noted that President William Ruto is expected to officially open the show on Thursday.
"We are good to go, tomorrow Monday we will be opening our gates, it will be the pre-show. Tuesday will be the judging day, Wednesday will be the Governor's day. We expect our President William Ruto to officially the show on Thursday" said Anisa.
The show is expected to end on Sunday.
According to the show committee over 150 exhibitors have already registered for this year's show.
Anisa noted "We are also expecting students from all of our schools in the region to attend this year's show."
This year's theme is 'Promoting climate smart Agriculture and trade initiatives for sustainable economic growth'.
Charges are. kshs 200 for Children/ students and kshs 300 for adults.
Veteran Mombasa Based Photojournalist Joseph Okanga Dies
The Mombasa media fraternity is mourning the death of veteran photojournalist Joseph Okanga.
Okanga died early today (Saturday) at the Coast general hospital where he had been admitted, receiving treatment.
Okanga had plied his trade with several media houses both locally and internationally including Nation and Reuters.
Speaking to Ommy Dallah, Okanga's elder brother Moses Okanga confirmed the sad news adding that the family will be meeting to arrange for his funeral.
"He just fell ill suddenly and was taken to hospital few days ago but unfortunately he left us today (Saturday) around 8am" said Moses.
Several journalists have come out to mourn the late Okanga.
"He was one of the best photojournalists not only in Kenya but the entire region. He was a cool and humble guy, we will really miss him" said Maarufu Mohammed, veteran photojournalist.
On his part KTN camera man Moses Baya eulogised him as a polite and courageous photojournalist.
"He was Agile and courageous. He stuck to his mission as a photographer and would spend hours waiting for only one picture that is creative and above the rest. He also had a nose for news and will go out of his way to get photos under whatever circumstances. I worked with him at both at Nation and Reuters covering really news especially on piracy, terrorism and ethnic clashes in Tana River. He was ethical and played by the rules. I will miss him" said Baya.
Among the veteran photojournalists he has worked with are Gideon Maundu, Titus Musau, Adam Hussein, Maarufu Mohamed, Omondi Onyango.
How Massive Graft Marred Covid-19 Testing, Vaccination In Coast's Largest Referral Facility
Details have emerged of how massive graft marred Covid-19 testing and vaccination at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital (CGTRH) in Mombasa, as desperate citizens scrambled for jabs at the height of Covid-19 crisis in the better part of 2021.
It has now emerged desperate Kenyans were forced to part with between Sh 1,000 and Sh 2,000 for the services.
The said graft was reportedly being perpetrated by rogue officials at the facility who were tasked with the mandate of spearheading a network of brokers and individuals from outside the hospital.
A number of Kenyans who went through the Coast’s largest referral hospital at the time have given a blow by blow account of how corrupt networks within the facility molded a cash cow out of Covid-19 vaccination and testing.
According to sources familiar with the said networks, priority for services especially vaccination and testing was reportedly given to clients who were ready to remit cash.
Christine Dena said she had gone for a third retest after having tested positive for Covid-19 when she noticed the unnecessary delays.
She said results for her samples which had been collected for her third retest could not be tracked and she was forced to return to the facility the following day for another sample collection.
“Since my first test, everything was free of charge but during the third test I noticed there were extreme delays. When my result could not be tracked one of the nurses asked me if I remitted cash and when I expressed my disappointment at the level of extortion at the facility and threatened to expose the rot, they pleaded with me to maintain my cool,” she said adding one of the nurses even offered to send her the results via whatsapp but she declined the offer.
Within the same facility, David Odongo, explained how at one point he witnessed Money exchanging hands at the waiting bay just next to the vaccination room.
“The queue was long. We were kept waiting since morning and at some point they even sent a security guard to tell us that the doses were out. Then I saw a young woman make a call and walk straight towards the vaccination room. While at the waiting bay she handed one of the clinical officers a Sh 1000 note,” explained Odongo noting the woman reportedly claimed to be in a rush to travel.
On receiving the cash, the said clinical officer was immediately spotted stuffing the cash in his shoulder bag.
The officer then went on to rummage through a hip of used vaccine vials, and used a needle and syringe to suck out remaining drops of vaccines from five of the vials to make one dose and gave her the jab.
According to Odongo, the fraudulent operation was brokered by a group of brokers that strategically took position at vaccination stations whose main job was to receive calls from desperate members of the public and record their particulars on a piece of paper to prepare their jabs.
“I remember very well it was on a Friday and there was one person with a hat and blue robe. He was seated at the second last center next to the vaccination room. His job was to receive calls and record personal details on a sheet of paper and submit it to those in charge of the exercise,” he said adding he received had second dose after returning to the hospital four times
Peter Mwaro, a Mombasa based sales executive said they were in a long queue awaiting their second jab but they were surprised to see priority being given to Kenya Revenue Authority staffers and a group of Asians who claimed to be part of a committee that coordinated and negotiated for their services.
“We were six of us from our company. We arrived at the facility at 8.00am but we waited until afternoon then we were told that the doses were finished and we had to come again the next morning. That morning when we arrived the queues were long and the scene was chaotic. We watched as people were being allowed in and when we asked they said they had booked earlier,” said Mwaro.
At some point a bitter altercation ensued and led to exchange of blows in the queue
Besides vaccination, the County government of Mombasa spent Sh 14.6 million in the financial year 2020/2021 on purchase and installation of sanitizing booths and tents despite the move by the Ministry of Health to declare such booths ineffective and irrelevant.
A summary of the Sh 200 million Covid-19 budgets and expenditure for Mombasa County as captured in the County Governments Budget implementation review report of the first nine month of the financial year 2020/2021 indicates the Governor Hassan Joho’s administration spent a total of Sh 14,656,351 as of March 31, 2021 on the irrelevant booths.
In the financial year, the County had allocated Sh200 million for Covid-19 and by March 31, a total of Sh 142,100,245, translating to more than 50 per cent of the budget had been spent already.
Acting health Director General Patrick Amoth was on record saying that the sanitization booths installed in various parts of the country are neither safe nor helpful in combating the spread of coronavirus.
According to Amoth, the chemicals used may expose people to severe respiratory conditions which can lead to death.
“When using chemicals like chlorine or hydrogen peroxide which are used commonly in those booths; in case you are asthmatic, you can get a severe attack which can lead to respiratory failure and even death,” the Director General said as he further warned that the chemicals can cause skin irritation that may cause dermatitis and eye irritation.
His remarks came at a time when installation of the booths in public spaces had almost become a norm by both County and National Government authorities across the country.
Mombasa County had set aside Sh 10 million for Purchase and Installation of Sanitizing Booths and tents but as of March the County had spent Sh 14,656,351 according to the report.
A further Sh 8 million was spent on supply of the sanitizing booths and tents sanitizing chemicals meaning that more than Sh 22 million may have gone to waste.
KEMRI And Kenya Biovax Sign MOU on Vaccine Manufacturing
The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and Kenya Biovax Institute have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to pave way to new scales and opportunities in vaccine manufacturing, supply security and capacity building in Kenya.
According to KEMRI this is in line with the Institute’s mission to Improve Human Health and Quality of Life through Research, Capacity Building and Service Delivery.
The MoU enables KEMRI and KBI to partner in research and production of human vaccines, as a long-term measure to ensure Kenya becomes self -sufficient in its vaccine and in building security of supply.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, KEMRI acting Director General Elijah Songok highlighted that the MoU is in line with the governments agenda of advancing the economic pillar of local manufacturing and the development objective on Universal Health Coverage (UHC).
KEMRI Board of Directors Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ali welcomed the collaboration citing that government is working tirelessly to ensure that the country is able to develop and produce its own vaccines, informed by the aftermath of COVID -19, where African countries were not on priority list to access COVID-19 vaccines.
Additionally, GAVI (Global Vaccine Initiative) the organization that has been supporting Kenya and other countries to access affordable vaccines for their Immunization programs shall cease support from 2027, hence a dire need for Kenya to be independent.
Kenyan Crooner Xeniah Manasseh Delivers 'Love/Hate' Pt 1
Alternative R&B Kenyan singer-songwriter, Xenia Manasseh takes listeners on a rollercoaster of love’s uncertainty with her eagerly-awaited debut album ‘Love/Hate Pt. 1’- released today.
The 11-track masterpiece is delicate, fierce and woven with raw and vulnerable lyrics that begs to be heard from top to bottom.
Xenia Manasseh's poignant debut album takes listeners on a captivating journey through the tumultuous rollercoaster of love while artfully weaving together soulful melodies, introspective lyrics, and relatable dilemmas that resonate with every heart.
The stripped-down visualizer for track “Love/Hate” unveils Xenia’s real truth. It drips with sorrow, hope, and with an eclectic energy that captures the listener at every turn. Taking the viewer through acres of greenery, the R&B sensation glazes off into a brighter future.
The single touches on the necessity of letting go and looking forward to a bright future.
Xenia speaks on the album and the newly released visualizer, “Love/Hate is also one of the songs and I felt that was the song that encompassed all the feelings that are spoken about in the album–the good, the bad, and in-between. I try to remember that balance as a lifeline."
Adding, “I feel like everything in the album falls under those two words. It’s like a pendulum swing - you’re in and you’re out. When people listen, the title will resonate with them.”
Tracklist:
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GI’s Intro feat. Edgar Manasseh
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Soul Lovers
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Late Night Check Up feat. Shalom Dubas
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Southwards feat. Tay Iwar
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Anticipate feat. Karun
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Temporary Love
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Cheza Chini Interlude
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Lowkey
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Niambie
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Precious
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Love / Hate
The album opens with "GI’s Intro" , a soft, soulful Swahili song Intro that features Xenia’s grandfather Manasseh. They harmonize and bond over a Swahili composition by Luka Tututu from the Coast Province, where Xenia’s family comes from, a prelude that sets the tone for the emotional rollercoaster that follows.
"Soul Lovers" then kicks in, capturing Xenia's yearning for a renewed and balanced love, a sentiment that many can relate to.
As the album progresses, Xenia takes us on a deep dive into the many facets of love.
"Late Night Check Up" featuring American-Nigerian rapper Shalom Dubas explores late-night introspections, while "Southwards" with Tay Iwar delves into daydreaming about someone who may not be the right fit for her.
"Anticipate" showcases Xenia's vulnerability, with the haunting vocals of Karun echoing her worries about the longevity of a romantic relationship.
However, in "Temporary Love," she finds the courage to express her true desires and overcomes anxieties that might have held her back.
In the interlude "Cheza Chini" Xenia is asking her partner to safeguard their love in the privacy of their connection, echoing her desire to protect what they have.
In "Lowkey," Xenia explores the notion of keeping love under wraps, leading to heartfelt conversations about the need to preserve the intimacy and sanctity of relationships.
The captivating journey continues with "Niambie," where Xenia flawlessly leads us through the complexities of feeling wanted in a relationship and the necessity of assurance asking her partner to proclaim their love in Swahili; “Niambie ni mimi” (Tell me I am the one)
"Precious" takes us on a journey of self-discovery, as Xenia realizes her self-worth within the relationship. She sets her boundaries and shows us how self-love can be the foundation for all forms of love. And finally, "Love-Hate" concludes the album.
The album serves as an incredible introduction to Xenia Manasseh's artistry, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating what comes next in her musical journey.
With "Love-Hate Pt 1," Xenia Manasseh delivers an album that captures the essence of love's highs and lows, inviting listeners to resonate with the emotions and experiences shared through her soulful music.
Xenia continues to make waves as an artist who blends stunning lyrical relatability with lush vocals and intricate songwriting. Her music is relatable and honest and a reflection of her life, values and experiences.
She is renowned for bringing a refreshing new sound to the music scene following the success of her 2019 debut EP Fallin' Apart.
She has captivated a varied audience with the clarity and the purity of her tone and successful collaborations like Maybe 2022 EP with Kenyan producer/artist Ukweli.
WOJO Set To Launch In Kenya In An Expansion Drive For Its Co-Working Solutions
WOJO, a global leader in providing innovative co-working solutions, has revealed its plans to establish a strong presence in Kenya, setting foot in a fast-expanding industry.
The expansion marks a significant milestone in WOJO's journey, as it seeks to bring its world-class co-working spaces to one of Africa's most vibrant and promising business landscapes.
“The specificity of WOJO is that hospitality excellence and skills are at the core of the business. WOJO, which is a part of Accor Management Group, leverages excellence in comfort and office expertise. WOJO materializes the ‘workspitality ‘concept,” said WOJO Africa Growth Lead Faith Nyongesa.
With an unwavering commitment to fostering creativity, collaboration, and productivity, WOJO has gained a reputation for transforming traditional workspaces into dynamic environments that cater to the evolving needs of modern professionals and businesses.
As part of its strategic vision, WOJO Africa aims to replicate its success on a Pan-African scale and contribute to the growth of Kenya's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
"Kenya is an exciting market with a burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit and a growing demand for flexible workspace solutions. WOJO is dedicated to providing an environment that inspires innovation, facilitates connections, and nurtures the aspirations of local businesses," added Ms. Nyongesa.
WOJO's approach to co-working emphasizes flexibility, collaboration, community, and aesthetics.
Their spaces are designed to be adaptable, accommodating businesses of all sizes – from freelancers and startups to established enterprises.
The co-working environments foster collaboration through thoughtful layout and shared amenities, fostering a sense of camaraderie among members.
As part of its commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, WOJO plans to integrate eco-friendly practices into its Kenyan operations and engage with local communities to create meaningful opportunities for business growth and development.
"Nairobi has a rich coworking scene; people living in Nairobi are used to the product and have high expectations in terms of services. We believe we can bring the solution and close the gap between product and customers’ expectations " reiterated Ms. Nyongesa.
Adding "Upperhill is under-serviced despite the presence of authorities, institutions, banks, and a high private sector profile. All of them need quality and flexibility; located in Mercure Nairobi Upperhill hotel, WOJO Africa will offer both coworking space services and amenities and access to the hotel living spaces such as the Gym, Swimming pool, restaurant services, hotel rooms etc."
This expansion into Kenya aligns seamlessly with WOJO's global vision, as the company continues to leverage its expertise to create thriving co-working Spaces and enhance, enrich Hotel ecosystems around the world.
The entry into the Kenyan market not only highlights WOJO's determination to adapt to diverse cultures and business landscapes but also reinforces its role as a catalyst for economic progress.
WOJO Set To Launch In Kenya In An Expansion Drive For Its Co-Working Solutions
WOJO, a global leader in providing innovative co-working solutions, has revealed its plans to establish a strong presence in Kenya, setting foot in a fast-expanding industry.
The expansion marks a significant milestone in WOJO's journey, as it seeks to bring its world-class co-working spaces to one of Africa's most vibrant and promising business landscapes.
“The specificity of WOJO is that hospitality excellence and skills are at the core of the business. WOJO, which is a part of Accor Management Group, leverages excellence in comfort and office expertise. WOJO materializes the ‘workspitality ‘concept,” said WOJO Africa Growth Lead Faith Nyongesa.
With an unwavering commitment to fostering creativity, collaboration, and productivity, WOJO has gained a reputation for transforming traditional workspaces into dynamic environments that cater to the evolving needs of modern professionals and businesses.
As part of its strategic vision, WOJO Africa aims to replicate its success on a Pan-African scale and contribute to the growth of Kenya's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
"Kenya is an exciting market with a burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit and a growing demand for flexible workspace solutions. WOJO is dedicated to providing an environment that inspires innovation, facilitates connections, and nurtures the aspirations of local businesses," added Ms. Nyongesa.
WOJO's approach to co-working emphasizes flexibility, collaboration, community, and aesthetics.
Their spaces are designed to be adaptable, accommodating businesses of all sizes – from freelancers and startups to established enterprises.
The co-working environments foster collaboration through thoughtful layout and shared amenities, fostering a sense of camaraderie among members.
As part of its commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, WOJO plans to integrate eco-friendly practices into its Kenyan operations and engage with local communities to create meaningful opportunities for business growth and development.
"Nairobi has a rich coworking scene; people living in Nairobi are used to the product and have high expectations in terms of services. We believe we can bring the solution and close the gap between product and customers’ expectations " reiterated Ms. Nyongesa.
Adding "Upperhill is under-serviced despite the presence of authorities, institutions, banks, and a high private sector profile. All of them need quality and flexibility; located in Mercure Nairobi Upperhill hotel, WOJO Africa will offer both coworking space services and amenities and access to the hotel living spaces such as the Gym, Swimming pool, restaurant services, hotel rooms etc."
This expansion into Kenya aligns seamlessly with WOJO's global vision, as the company continues to leverage its expertise to create thriving co-working Spaces and enhance, enrich Hotel ecosystems around the world.
The entry into the Kenyan market not only highlights WOJO's determination to adapt to diverse cultures and business landscapes but also reinforces its role as a catalyst for economic progress.
WOJO Set To Launch In Kenya In An Expansion Drive For Its Co-Working Solutions
WOJO, a global leader in providing innovative co-working solutions, has revealed its plans to establish a strong presence in Kenya, setting foot in a fast-expanding industry.
The expansion marks a significant milestone in WOJO's journey, as it seeks to bring its world-class co-working spaces to one of Africa's most vibrant and promising business landscapes.
“The specificity of WOJO is that hospitality excellence and skills are at the core of the business. WOJO, which is a part of Accor Management Group, leverages excellence in comfort and office expertise. WOJO materializes the ‘workspitality ‘concept,” said WOJO Africa Growth Lead Faith Nyongesa.
With an unwavering commitment to fostering creativity, collaboration, and productivity, WOJO has gained a reputation for transforming traditional workspaces into dynamic environments that cater to the evolving needs of modern professionals and businesses.
As part of its strategic vision, WOJO Africa aims to replicate its success on a Pan-African scale and contribute to the growth of Kenya's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
"Kenya is an exciting market with a burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit and a growing demand for flexible workspace solutions. WOJO is dedicated to providing an environment that inspires innovation, facilitates connections, and nurtures the aspirations of local businesses," added Ms. Nyongesa.
WOJO's approach to co-working emphasizes flexibility, collaboration, community, and aesthetics.
Their spaces are designed to be adaptable, accommodating businesses of all sizes – from freelancers and startups to established enterprises.
The co-working environments foster collaboration through thoughtful layout and shared amenities, fostering a sense of camaraderie among members.
As part of its commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, WOJO plans to integrate eco-friendly practices into its Kenyan operations and engage with local communities to create meaningful opportunities for business growth and development.
"Nairobi has a rich coworking scene; people living in Nairobi are used to the product and have high expectations in terms of services. We believe we can bring the solution and close the gap between product and customers’ expectations " reiterated Ms. Nyongesa.
Adding "Upperhill is under-serviced despite the presence of authorities, institutions, banks, and a high private sector profile. All of them need quality and flexibility; located in Mercure Nairobi Upperhill hotel, WOJO Africa will offer both coworking space services and amenities and access to the hotel living spaces such as the Gym, Swimming pool, restaurant services, hotel rooms etc."
This expansion into Kenya aligns seamlessly with WOJO's global vision, as the company continues to leverage its expertise to create thriving co-working Spaces and enhance, enrich Hotel ecosystems around the world.
The entry into the Kenyan market not only highlights WOJO's determination to adapt to diverse cultures and business landscapes but also reinforces its role as a catalyst for economic progress.
WOJO Set To Launch In Kenya In An Expansion Drive For Its Co-Working Solutions
WOJO, a global leader in providing innovative co-working solutions, has revealed its plans to establish a strong presence in Kenya, setting foot in a fast-expanding industry.
The expansion marks a significant milestone in WOJO's journey, as it seeks to bring its world-class co-working spaces to one of Africa's most vibrant and promising business landscapes.
“The specificity of WOJO is that hospitality excellence and skills are at the core of the business. WOJO, which is a part of Accor Management Group, leverages excellence in comfort and office expertise. WOJO materializes the ‘workspitality ‘concept,” said WOJO Africa Growth Lead Faith Nyongesa.
With an unwavering commitment to fostering creativity, collaboration, and productivity, WOJO has gained a reputation for transforming traditional workspaces into dynamic environments that cater to the evolving needs of modern professionals and businesses.
As part of its strategic vision, WOJO Africa aims to replicate its success on a Pan-African scale and contribute to the growth of Kenya's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
"Kenya is an exciting market with a burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit and a growing demand for flexible workspace solutions. WOJO is dedicated to providing an environment that inspires innovation, facilitates connections, and nurtures the aspirations of local businesses," added Ms. Nyongesa.
WOJO's approach to co-working emphasizes flexibility, collaboration, community, and aesthetics.
Their spaces are designed to be adaptable, accommodating businesses of all sizes – from freelancers and startups to established enterprises.
The co-working environments foster collaboration through thoughtful layout and shared amenities, fostering a sense of camaraderie among members.
As part of its commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, WOJO plans to integrate eco-friendly practices into its Kenyan operations and engage with local communities to create meaningful opportunities for business growth and development.
"Nairobi has a rich coworking scene; people living in Nairobi are used to the product and have high expectations in terms of services. We believe we can bring the solution and close the gap between product and customers’ expectations " reiterated Ms. Nyongesa.
Adding "Upperhill is under-serviced despite the presence of authorities, institutions, banks, and a high private sector profile. All of them need quality and flexibility; located in Mercure Nairobi Upperhill hotel, WOJO Africa will offer both coworking space services and amenities and access to the hotel living spaces such as the Gym, Swimming pool, restaurant services, hotel rooms etc."
This expansion into Kenya aligns seamlessly with WOJO's global vision, as the company continues to leverage its expertise to create thriving co-working Spaces and enhance, enrich Hotel ecosystems around the world.
The entry into the Kenyan market not only highlights WOJO's determination to adapt to diverse cultures and business landscapes but also reinforces its role as a catalyst for economic progress.
