People Daily AUG 24th 2023

Trouble at Sports ministry: Legislators allied to President William Ruto crucify embattled CS, accusing him of failing to ensure welfare of athletes PAGE 4 410354
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NJOJTUSZ Mercenary leader killed in plane crash World News >> PG 19 Higher park charges ‘will hurt tourism’ PG 22-23 Thursday, August 24, 2023 NO. www.pd.co.ke // www.epaper.pd.co.ke 07883 Ke nya’s Newspaper NO1. FREE Ababu must resign, angry MPs demand Ruto seeks out TikTok over content >> Pg3 President says digital platform will be regulated to ensure beneficial videos are prioritised and negative ones controlled and for creatives to make more money On the spot: Former governor picked up over money allegedly lost during his tenure PAGE 5 Oparanya quizzed in Sh1.8 billion graft probe

2 NEWS BEAT PEOPLE DAILY / Thursday, August 24, 2023 by Irene Githinji @gitshee President William Ruto has called for fast salary increase negotiations for teachers. Ruto yesterday urged the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) and union representatives to ensure they reach an agreement as soon as possible. “I know there are discussions between TSC and teacher representatives and I want to ask them to expedite the negotiations because the government has provided the resources to enhance their pay packages,” Ruto said during the Kenya Music Festival Winners’ concert at State House, Nakuru. He was speaking a day after teachers unions declined the 2.4 per cent proposal for higher job groups and 9.5 per cent for lower ones saying it did not even match recommendations made by the President and the Salaries Remuneration Commission (SRC). The President lauded teachers for their work, saying those who prepared learners for the festivals should benefit from planned promotions. “I want to recommend here that teachers who have done this phenomenal job, trained these young people, written the scripts and done exemplary work should join those to be promoted in this cycle. I believe they deserve that promotion because they have excelled and gone beyond the call of duty,” said Ruto Extra mile He said the government had been working with TSC to incentivize teachers and bring out their best by making sure that those who do well are promoted. “This year, we have provided for promotion of 5,000 teachers directly and 36,000 teachers indirectly. We have provided Sh1 billion that will go in that direction. I want to encourage teachers to step 5XWRGLUHFWVXQLRQV76& WRIDVWWUDFNVDODU\WDONV President says issues raised about the CompetencyBased Curriculum had been resolved by task force 1HZYDUVLW\IXQGLQJ PRGHOZLOOORFNRXW PDQ\VWXGHQWV²03V by Anthony Mwangi @PeopleDailyKe Members of Parliament have demanded that the government revokes the new model of funding university education. There was uproar in the House yesterday with members saying the new system would lock out thousands of deserving students from public universities. Nyando MP Jared Okello said the new funding model would cause a national crisis. “This is a matter that requires this House to give direction. Last week I was in the village and I received lots of students coming to my home with university admission letters. What was mindboggling is the amount of money they are required to pay,” said Okello. He said many students may end up missing out on university education. Initially, students were eligible for capitation funds from the Ministry of Education to pursue university courses. This has since been scrapped and replaced with bursaries and scholarships. “This House has what it takes to bring back the capitation system,” Okello said. Gilgil MP Martha Wangari said the new system should undergo public participation spearheaded by Parliament. Minors Amboko Milemba (Emuhaya) said the matter had created a desperate situation in the country. He said the portal that students are supposed to use to apply for loans or scholarship was jammed and was not accessible. “Another problem is that over 4,000 students who don’t have IDs cannot access yet there’s space where we could use parents’ IDs to get the loans,” said Omboko. Leader of majority Kimani Ichung’wah said he will be ask the Education Cabinet Secretary to ensure that no single student is denied admission to university on age or fees grounds. Speaker Moses Wetang’ula directed the majority leader to table a statement on the matter this afternoon. forward, do their best because apart from doing what we must do as a society, teachers are looked after… We want to promote those who excel because they have gone beyond their call of duty,” the President said. New curriculum Ruto said the music presentations were part of the wider context of what the government is doing in the creative space, arts and education. He said the event was Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) in practice, saying that the debate on the education system had since been resolved. “I want to thank stakeholders in formulating and straightening CBC and now all the challenges we had have been sorted out and our children can learn, knowing very well where we are going and parents should be sure what is happening to their children,” he explained. Elswehere, Luanda MP Dick Maungu has blamed Teachers Service Commission (TSC) for failing to promote teachers despite having been allocated Sh1.5 billion in the financial year of 2022/2023. The lawmaker, who is a member of the Education Committee in the National Assembly, was reacting to remarks by some teachers that they had stagnated in their job groups for years. “We have heard stories of teachers who have served in the same job group in the same school for over 15 years,” Maungu said. He was speaking at Emuhaya during a Kenya National Union of Teachers (Knut) event over the weekend. The MP also complained that some teachers have been in acting capacity for long without being promoted. “There is no way a teacher can act for over 14 years. This is like using the teacher as a slave,” he said. He said Parliament will come up wit a new policy that will clarify how long a teacher should act as a deputy in a learning institutions. Maungu said the Education Principal Secretary will in September appear before the Education Committee to explain why schools were yet to receive their capitation funds despite the Treasury realising money. Kenya National Union of Teachers secretary general Collins Oyuu addresses the press at the Kenya School of Government on Tuesday. PD/JOHN OCHIENG BUSINESS HUB Page 16 Watchdog fines steel firms Sh338m for cartel conduct OPINION Page 11 Is moon exploration defining moment for Kenya? POINTERS WEATHER TODAY Nairobi 27° Mombasa 31° Kisumu 32° Nyeri 25° Kitui 31° Wajir 33° 2IILFLDOUDLVHVDODUPRYHUTXDFNODEWHFKQRORJLVWVLQ1RUWK5LIWKRVSLWDOV The Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologists Board has raised the red flag over increased cases of forged academic documents presented to county governments by job seekers. The board has cautioned county governments against engaging services of unqualified people in their health facilities as laboratory technologists and technicians. Board official Luke Chemwok urged county governments to verify the authenticity of documents being presented to them by job seekers before hiring them. Chemwok was reacting to concerns by stakeholders in the health sector from the North Rift and Western regions over what they said was a high number of unqualified laboratory technologists who had secured employment in county government-run health facilities. He made the remarks after attending the hearing of a court case where a former senior union leader they arrested was arraigned for acting as a medical laboratory technologist at a public health hospital without registering with the board. The suspect has reportedly been working at a Uasin Gishu health centre for more than seven years despite allegedly having not trained at any Kenya Medical Training College. Chemwok said they have enhanced crackdown on unqualified lab technologists and technicians operating in both public and private hospitals in the region. “Patients seeking services in such facilities are in danger. There is need to avert calamity by cracking down on the quacks,” he said. “Health facilities sourcing the services of unqualified persons are posing a great danger to patients who are supposed to go through their hands in the lab,” he warned. Among the counties, they have intensified the crackdown is Nandi, Elgeyo Marakwet, and Trans Nzoia. Other counties on the radar are West Pokot, Bungoma and Turkana. —KNA EDUCATION Students wait to be served at Helb offices at Anniversary Towers, Nairobi, yesterday. PD/PHILIP KAMAKYA

Thursday, August 24, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY NEWS BEAT 3 by Irene Githinji @PeopleDailyKe President William Ruto is scheduled to hold talks with TikTok Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Shou Zi Chew today, amid heightened calls to ban the video-sharing platform. Ruto said yesterday Kenya is making at least Sh500 million monthly from various social media platforms and should be supported to grow. He said discussions with TikTok’s CEO will majorly centre on mechanisms for content moderation. Ruto said negative content on platforms should be managed and positive effects, which are making artists, content creators and many others in this space to explore opportunities, make money and grow their talents, should be promoted. “I know we have had a conversation around TikTok and some of the challenges that are in that space. Just like we have moderation capacities of other platforms, tomorrow (today) morning we will have that conversation with Global CEO of TikTok so that we can agree on a mechanism to moderate content in their space and we can reduce content that is negative and leverage on monetization that is benefiting a lot more people,” the President stated during the Kenya Music Festival Winners’ concert at State House Nakuru. Last week, a petition was tabled in Parliament seeking to ban Tik Tok in the country. The petitioner asked Parliament to take immediate actions to safeguard Kenyans from negative effects arising from use of the platform, noting that the Internet application is not regulated by Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), leading to failure to remove or block content deemed to be inappropriate or offensive. According to him, while TikTok has gained popularity among the youth, the content being shared on the platform is inappropriate and promote violence, explicit sexual content, hate speech, vulgar language and offensive behaviour which is a serious threat to the cultural and religious values of Kenyans. “Every month Kenya is getting between Sh300 million and Sh500 million every month from these platforms so we are increasing our revenues as a country from this space,” said Ruto. The President also said he had a conversation with Facebook and agreed to test with 25 of local creators beginning this month so that they can also unlock the potential of monetising content on that space. 5XWRVHWWR PHHW7LN7RN ERVVIRUWDONV ,QWXQHZLWKIHVWLYDOZLQQHUV 1. President William Ruto, DP Rigathi Gachagua (left), First Lady Rachel Ruto (2nd right) and Nakuru County Governor Susan Kihika join winners of this year’s music festival for a dance at State House, Nakuru, yesterday. The President hosted Winners of the 95th Kenya Music Festival 2023 at the State House. The event was also attended by Cabinet Secretaries Ezekiel Machogu (Education) and Ababu Namwamba (Sports) among other leaders. 2 & 3. Individual category winners from the festivals perform for guests yesterday. 4, 5, 6 & 7. Various schools entertain guests. PSC 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

4 NEWS BEAT PEOPLE DAILY / Thursday, August 24, 2023 Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports… Among the immutable norms of parliamentary practice include non-admissibility of hearsay and not condemning anyone unheard and in their absence.” Ichung’wah termed the letter as “condescending to the institution of Parliament”, faulting the CS for insinuating that the legislators were raising issues on “hearsay.” “For the record, for this Cabinet Secretary and others, because some may be misguided to believe that as a Leader of Majority, I am here holding brief for Cabinet Secretaries when it comes to matters of accountability, I will hold you to account as if I am the Leader of Minority,” said Ichung’wah. Grand reception The CS had been asked to explain how and why the Kenyan team to the Special Olympics Games in Berlin, Germany, jetted out of the country without neither the Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Sports and the Arts or a representative from the Ministry seeing them off. He was also asked to explain how and why the Cabinet Secretary did not deem it reasonable to receive and celebrate the team for their monumental performance on arrival after the games? What measures is the Ministry taking to ensure that ill-treatment of athletes doesn’t recur? Namwamba told members that indeed, he was not at the airport when the team jetted out but some top ministry officials accompanied the team to ensure that all the preparations required are done. “I can also confirm that we remained in touch with the team throughout the period of these games, we tracked their participation and upon their return from Germany, we had a reception at the airport complete with traditional dancers, we had officers from the ministry, we even had garland of flowers,” explained the CS. He said on average, the country has multiple teams participating in various activities across the world. In any given month, you might have three or so delegations going to different parts of the world to represent the country. “We work as a team at the ministry and we take responsibility for different activities at different times. This particular trip did not find me in town because I was performing other duties elsewhere but the team was fully facilitated,” he said. He said that he remained in touch with the team throughout the period of the games, tracked their participation HIS DEFENCE The CS said he was not at the airport when the team jetted out but some top ministry officials accompanied the team to ensure that all the preparations required are done. The country has multiple teams participating in various activities across the world. In any given month, you might have three or so delegations going to different parts of the world to represent the country. 1DPZDPEDSXW WRWDVNRYHUKLV ZRUNDWPLQLVWU\ by Anthony Mwangi @PeopleDailyKe Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba was yesterday hung on the cross by irate MPs for several hours over his performance and conduct at the ministry. Appearing before irate MPs over claims the ministry was non-responsive to the interests of Kenyan athletes, Namwamba however, maintained his innocence and insisted that he would not resign. A visibly shaken Namwamba maintained he was up to the task, saying he had performed to his level best, including awarding athletes handsomely for their performances. “I believe there is absolutely no sufficient grounds that would cause my resignation. I’m performing exemplary well as CS responsible for this ministry,” he said. Kajiado Central MP Kanchori Memusi had asked the CS if he was ready to resign in the wake of the allegations made against him. “In light of all the facts that have been stated and in light of Article 73 of the Constitution, will this House be in order to demand that the CS Hon Ababu resigns? Because he has painted this country in a very bad manner, will we be in order to demand that he resigns? posed Memusi. “Would you be willing to resign based on the issues raised and the question asked by Hon Memusi?” posed temporary Speaker Martha Wangari. Migori Woman Rep Fatuma Mohammed wondered how the CS would be asked to resign on issues picked from social media. Apologised Earlier, Namwamba apologised to Parliament for writing a letter to the Speaker asking to be summoned to respond to queries raised against his Ministry. Namwamba was forced to apologise after Leader of Majority in the National Assembly Kimani Ichung’wa raised the issue about the letter which was addressed to National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula, his Senate counterpart Amason Kingi and copied to him. Ichung’wa pointed out that in the letter, Namwamba had described the issues raised against his ministry as “purporting” and “hearsay.” Part of the letter written by Namwamba read as follows: “The attention of our ministry has been drawn to statements made respective by MP Kimani Ichung’wah and Senator Simon Cherargei which statements purport to cast aspersions on the Sports minister says he will not resign over handling of Special Olympics games team in Germany in June Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba addresses members of the National Assembly in Nairobi, yesterday. PD/ KENNA CLAUDE and upon their return from the trip, had a reception at the airport complete with traditional dancers, we had officers from the Ministry, and we even had garland of flowers. “I have images and videos of the very elaborate ceremony at JKIA,” he revealed. The team, the CS said was accompanied by 13 government officials led by Second Lady, Dorcas Rigathi and two officers from her ministry. “I want to assure the House the Ministry took full responsibility for this team, we provided Sh159 million to support the preparation and participation of this team at the games and that money included support to residential training,” Namwamba told the MPs. He revealed the Ministry is responsible for the provision of uniforms, sports equipment, travel expenses which include return tickets for the whole delegation, allowances in accordance with the SRC guidelines, accommodation, reception upon return and also rewards for the team. “I am not aware of any joyriders that accompanied the Kenyan team to the Special Olympics,” he said in relation to a question by Deputy Speaker Gladys Boss. He said his ministry was among the least funded noting that the other source of funding — the Sports Fund— cater for the needs of many other departments. “We want the Sports Fund ring fenced to sports and culture activities only, otherwise we will continue struggling in terms of resources,” Namwamba said. On kitting of the national teams the CS said: “Allow me to clarify that Kenyan teams at this level do not use Adidas as a brand. In fact, the National Olympics Committee of Kenya has a subsisting contract with Nike and so Kenyan teams are by virtue of that contract kitted by Nike.” Mary Emaase (Teso South) said the dignity of the Special Olympics team players had been compromised and asked the CS to explain whether the ministry was short of funding. by Rawlings Otieno @PeopleDailyKe Schoolgirls in public institutions will benefit from free and sufficient sanitary towels, if MPs pass the Sanitary Towels Bill 2023. Some schoolgirls, especially in poor rural areas, miss school during their menstruation because their parents cannot afford the items or because the learners lack access to decent washrooms. The bill sponsored by Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba seeks to establish an inter-ministerial committee that will be charged with the responsibility of providing quality, free and sufficient sanitary towels in public institutions for the girls. And aware that some unscrupulous individuals or officials may try to rebrand and resell the pads, the bill imposes a heavy fine and imprisonment of up to five years for offenders. “A person who rebrands or resells sanitary towels distributed by the committee commits an offence and is liable on conviction for a first offence to a fine not exceeding Sh3 million or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years or to both,” reads part of the bill. For a second or subsequent offence, a person will be fined an amount not exceeding Sh5 million or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years or both. In her draft Bill, Orwoba proposes that Inter-Ministerial Committee on provision of Sanitary Towels will be composed of the chairperson and Principal Secretaries in charge of Gender, Basic Education, Correctional facilities, Higher Education, Vocational and Technical Training, Public Health and Attorney General. The Inter-Ministerial committee will also have National Gender and Equality Commission Chairperson, Director General of Health and three other persons not being officers of whom one shall be nominated by Council of Governors (CoG), one by Public Benefit Organisations (PBO) and one nominated by an umbrella body of organisation in the private sector. “The committee shall have powers to manage, control and administer the assets of the committee, receive any gifts, grants, donations or endowments made to the committee and approve the opening and closing of bank accounts of the Committee with the approval of the National Treasury,” reads part of the bill. 2UZREDELOO RIIHUVDUD\ RIKRSHIRU QHHG\JLUOV /".8".#"
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UJNFT Sh159m The amount of money provided to support the preparation and participation of Special Olympics Ganes team in Germany in June. The money included support to residential training.

Thursday, August 24, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY NEWS BEAT 5 The EACC detectives also conducted a raid at the former governor’s Mabole rural home in Butere constituency in connection with corruption at the county government. The detectives based at the regional offices in Kakamega arrived at Oparanya’s residence at around 8 am and cordoned it off, not allowing anybody in or out of the compound. “They were here very early, by 8 am, they have blocked everybody from accessing the compound, Mheshimiwa is not in however,’ said a worker who sought anonymity. Also locked out of the compound was Oparanya’s lawyer Ken Echesa. This is the second time the former governor has been arrested this year. Oparanya, in July, was arrested after being accused of organising anti-government protests in Western Kenya. Abdi confirmed that Oparanya was taken to Integrity Centre in Nairobi to “clarify several issues and record a statement on the ongoing investigation.” Earlier in the day, the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Party in a statement announced that Oparanya had been arrested together with his wife Pricilla. ”Our Deputy Party Leader Governor Wycliffe Oparanya has been arrested by officers from the DCI. Oparanya together with his wife Madam Priscillah are currently at the EACC offices at Integrity Centre,” ODM stated revealing his homes in Nairobi and Kakamega had been ransacked. The former Governor is yet to make a statement on his arrest and Sh1.3 billion allegations revealed by the EACC. Various Azimio leaders among them NARC-Kenya Party boss Martha Karua and ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna showed up at the EACC headquarters in a show of solidarity. The leaders claimed the operation was a political witchhunt linking it to the anticipated tour of western Kenya by President William Ruto. The Oparanyas were later released. Additional reporting by Douglas Dindi by Irene Githinji @PeopleDailyKe Equity Group Foundation is seeking to restructure its scholarship programme to align it with the changing education system under the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). The foundation’s executive chair Dr James Mwangi, said reforms in the education system will inform the changes that partners will put in place to continue supporting learners. “This year, we have the final Class 8 and as a result of the change into competency based, the education system will be restructured. In the same breadth, we are sitting down with partners to restructure the kind of programmes we have under the new system. We will continue to support and enhance the support,” said Mwangi. He welcomed the opportunity to serve as the Kenya Open University Chancellor saying he will also explore what role that can play to support the scholarship plan. He said he will work towards ensuring university education becomes more accessible. “We are working out the modalities of how to accommodate the changing education system. As we have seen there will be junior, senior school and also university education. The only thing I am aware and sure of is that the foundation will remain committed and we have assurance of our partners that we will continue to support children,” he assured. Mwangi made the remarks at Pangani Girls High School, where some 2,637 Nairobi region Wings to Fly and Elimu Scholarship scholars are being mentored on aligning values and leadership for academic and career success. 6FKRODUVKLSZLOODGDSWWRVXLW FKDQJLQJHGXFDWLRQV\VWHP by Zadock Angira @PeopleDailyKe Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Deputy Party Leader Wycliffe Oparanya and his two wives were yesterday arrested by detectives from the Ethics and AntiCorruption Commission (EACC) over corruption and economic crimes committed during his tenure as Kakamega governor. EACC said they had been conducting investigations into embezzlement of funds from the County under Oparanya’s watch between 2013 and 2022. Detectives said the amount involved could be in excess of Sh1.3 billion. “It was found that public funds were unlawfully acquired through proxies and associates,” EACC Deputy CEO Abdi Mohammed said yesterday. “The former governor was brought to EACC headquarters to clarify several issues and record a statement on the ongoing investigations.” Former governor Oparanya served as Kakamega governor for two terms from 2013 to 2022. “We successfully conducted a search on various targets. In our searches we have successfully found documents, hard cash and other items that we will be analysing,” the EACC boss said. “We have summoned the former governor, his wife and other close associates so that they can record their statement.” There was drama at Oparanya’s residence after he declined to board a vehicle belonging to the EACC when he was picked up for questioning from his home in Karen, Nairobi. Oparanya instead opted to board his lawyer, Ken Nyaundi’s vehicle but an EACC officer directed that two police officers also board the same vehicle. Oparanya was also grilled over alleged procurement irregularities. Abdi said the Kakamega County investigations was part of the high-impact investigations into loss of public funds that they were undertaking in various county governments , which are at different stages. “Upon conclusion, the investigation files will be forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for further directions,” he said. Civil proceedings He added that the commission may also file civil proceedings for recovery of public funds if investigations reveal to have been unlawfully acquired. “The Commission conducts its investigations independently, impartially, and professionally, and in accordance with its mandate as spelt under the law,” he added. Abdi also urged the leaders and the general public to allow EACC to discharge its mandate and to desist from politicizing and ethnicizing the work of independent offices, which remains a leading challenge in the fight against corruption. 2SDUDQ\DZLYHVTXL]]HGLQJUDIWSUREH Former Kakamega Governor grilled by EACC detectives over alleged loss of over Sh1.3b during his tenure Former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya (left) addresses Oparanya’s residence in Lang’ata, Nairobi yesterday. PD/PHILIP KAMAKYA OPARANYA PROBED Former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya was questioned by EACC detectives alongside his spouses in relation to the alleged embezzlement of Sh1.3 billion Oparanya, who is also ODM’s deputy party leader, served as Kakamega governor for two terms from 2013-2022 681'$< 7+$8*867 ffl30 ffl30 FOCUS ON SPIRULINA FARMING .HQ\DV1H[W6ROXWLRQ7R )RRG,QVHFXULW\ %3
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Thursday, August 24, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY 7

8 NEWS BEAT PEOPLE DAILY / Thursday, August 24, 2023 5XWRWRWRXU:HVWHUQUHJLRQ DPLGGLVTXLHWDPRQJOHDGHUV by Dennis Lumiti @PeopleDailyKe President William Ruto will be making another tour of the Western region amid political cracks amongst local leaders allied to Kenya Kwanza. A section of leaders from the region, especially Kakamega county, are increasingly growing restless due to failure by the current government to fulfil its promises to residents. Others are engaged in superiority fights around Prime Cabinet Secretary Wycliffe Musalia Mudavadi and Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Masika Wetang’ula. The President will visit the region from Saturday at a time when cane farmers are up in arms over a four-month closure of sugar millers that has had a negative impact on their livelihoods. There is growing resentment and impatience in the region over the President’s pledge of 30 per cent employment and development opportunities courtesy of his alliance with Mudavadi through the Amani National Congress (ANC) and Wetang’ula through Ford-Kenya parties. Political kingpin Mudavadi has since relinquished his leadership of ANC following his appointment as PCS. Wetang’ula has, on the other hand, been very visible in the region leading MPs and other leaders in fundraisers that are whispered to be designed to undermine Mudavadi. The latest was a fundraiser in Ikolomani constituency a week ago where several MPs, allied mainly to Azimio La Umoja Coalition, endorsed Wetangula as the Luhya political kingpin. “There are concerns that Hon Mudavadi is not active or visible in his home-turf the way, for instance, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is, in his Mount Kenya region,” said Desterio Okumu, a political commenA section of politicians feel the president has failed to fulfill his promises while others say he has delivered tator from Kakamega. “This has led to doubts over whether he will push for any development agenda in the Western region the way they promised in the run-up to the 2022 elections. These doubts are giving birth to resentment,” he added. Fred Wesonga, another commentator, pointed out that the seeming lack of commitment from the government to revive Mumias Sugar Company, for instance, has become a hot potato in Kakamega. “The President promised to oversee the full revival of Mumias Sugar Company in the first 100 days but little has been achieved a year later. To make matters worse, the factory is currently under lock and key. These are some of the issues that the President will have to confront during his visit,” he added. Airstrip expansion Other promises include the expansion of the Kakamega Airstrip to an international airport, tarmacking of the MurhandaShinyalu-Chepsonoi road, completion of the construction of Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega town, a gold refinery at Iguhu in Ikolomani constituency, support for Masinde Muliro University and Kakamega Referral Hospital. During his last visit, the President promised an immediate release of Sh50 million towards construction of an apron at the Kakamega Airstrip but nothing was so far happening at the facility in Shinyalu constituency as at yesterday, many months later. Wesonga also said Kakamega people feel marginalized because they lack a full Cabinet Secretary position yet they were the majority in the region, and regarded as the hotbed of Western politics. “Former Senator Cleophas Malalah and Harriet Chiggai attend cabinet meetings in their capacities as UDA Secretary-General and Gender Affairs Advisor respectively, but have no portfolios,” said Martin Andati, another political analyst. Malalah has worsened the situation due to his efforts to overlook ANC and Ford-K in the region. The former senator has been rattling the local political scene as he disregards Mudavadi and Wetang’ula who are perceived as the senior-most Luhya leaders. Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi (right) and Speaker of the National Assembly Moses Wetang’ula at a previous event. Some Western region leaders are engaged in superiority fights around the two leaders. PD/FILE POLITICAL CRACKS But other leaders from the region expressed their confidence in the current administration and exuded confidence that the residents would reap big from the President’s tour. “The President has variously proved that he is a man of his word. He started by picking Hon. Mudavadi and Wetang’ula as PCS and Speaker of the National Assembly,” said Shinyalu MP Fred Ikana. Minister aide’s lost gun used to shoot DCI officer The pistol that was used in the murder of Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officer had been stolen from the aide of former Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Peter Munya. The firearm was recovered on Tuesday morning when DCI detectives conducted a dawn raid at the residence of one of the suspects in Soweto, Kayole in Nairobi county. The suspect, John Kamau aka Farouk aka Jonte, was shot dead following a shootout with the officers. He also shot one of the officers on the left thigh, according to the DCI. According to the DCI headquarters, the firearm had been violently robbed from Charles Wachira Mahinda, an aide to Munya, in a robbery incident reported on November 17, 2021 in Ngong, Kajiado county. – Zadock Angira
 Sudi seeks to retain magistrate in case Chief Justice Martha Koome is now expected to decide on whether the sevenyear-old case regarding Kapsaret MP Oscar Sudi’s (pictured) academic papers will proceed before a new magistrate or not. This is after the trial magistrate Felix Kombo, who was hearing the case, was transferred to a new station. Following the transfer, Sudi’s lawyers said they will approach the CJ to permit Kombo to conclude the case which is at its tail end. Sudi’s lawyers, Thomas Rutto and George Wajakoya, asked Milimani Anti-Corruption Chief Magistrate Thomas Nzyoki to give them more time to enable them write to the CJ over the issue. They want her to allow the transferred magistrate to finalise the case since it was at its tail end. – Nancy Gitonga PS on the spot over Sh1.8b unpaid claims MPs took to task Defence Principal Secretary Patrick Mariru over the failure by his ministry to settle court awards amounting to Sh1.8 billion. The lawmakers raised concerns over the delayed settlement of the awards after it emerged they emanate from injury claims and unlawful dismissal of soldiers and staff, road traffic offences, medical claims and arbitration awards. At a meeting with Mariru, the MPs who sit in the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) chaired by nominated MP John Mbadi sought to know whether the department had failed to settle the claims because they have been lodged by soldiers who have no say in society. Mariru responded saying the lack of adequate funds from the National Treasury has made it impossible for them to clear all the awards. – Mercy Mwai Climate Action Zone launched Executive Director, Alliance for Science Dr Sheila Ochugboju, (centre)is assisted to cut cake to mark the launch of the Climate Action Zone, a onestop information hub for the forthcoming Africa Climate Action Summit to be held in Nairobi next month. She is accompanied by the National Research Fund board chair Prof Ratemo Michieka, (2nd left), Jackline Koin (with red head gear) from Alliance for Science and former Kirinyaga Senator Daniel Karaba (far right) among others . PD/JOAN KITHANZE

Thursday, August 24, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY 9

10 PEOPLE SPEAK PEOPLE DAILY / Thursday, August 24, 2023 In May 2021, members of the Rastafari movement in Kenya filed a suit seeking to decriminalise the possession and personal use of marijuana. In the case before the High Court, the Rastafarians argued that the law against the private use of bhang, particularly in their houses and places of worship, was illegal. According to the suit, “cannabis can be spiritually referred to as bhang, marijuana, holy herb, kushungpeng, tire, ndom, vela, gode and kindukulu”. Cannabis has the highest number of pseudonyms of any plant. From Maryjane to sinsemilla, dope to roach and ganja, there are at least 20 synonyms for grass! Well, the Rastafarians had their say and the country is still waiting for the High Court to weigh the merits and demerits of their pleadings. It is obviously going to be a tough case, what with the stigma and stereotypes around the plant. But for those still in denial, weed has now become the psychotropic substance of choice among partying youth, with young women also smoking the “holy herb” in large numbers, likely more than they are smoking tobacco. The stigma is actually fading and the drug has found its way to the society as a whole. However, why is it that many governments around the world fight the growth and consumption of cannabis with such inordinate use of force compared to alcohol and cigarettes which are known to be much more destructive to society? While like any other drug bhang has adverse effects when abused, its legality has been politicised, losing sight of the bigger picture. Compare bhang’s demonisation with the way the ban on miraa (khat) went full circle and the twigs were sanitised even by health authorities at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (Kemri). Somalia lifted the ban on Kenyan khat imports. Miraa is still banned in Europe largely due to political and hygiene reasons. An increasing number of countries including Austria, Canada, Czech Republic, Finland, Germany, Israel, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and at least 25 American states have legalised the use of medical marijuana. Some among them have also allowed limited amounts of weed for personal and recreation consumption. According to research, cannabis contains at least 85 known cannabinoids (marijuana extracts), many which have medical value. Evidence from one cell culture study with rodents and animals suggests that purified extracts from whole-plant marijuana can slow the growth of cancer cells from one of the most serious types of brain tumours. These studies seem to indicate that cannabinoids may help kill certain cancer cells and reduce the size of others. Research is ongoing to establish whether marijuana and its extracts can truly treat symptoms of illness and other conditions, such as diseases that affect the immune system like HIV/Aids and multiple sclerosis, inflammation, pain, seizures, substance use disorders and mental disorders. Cannabis is also said to alleviate diabetes, epilepsy, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Alzheimer’s among other body and mind ailments. The truth is out. Kenya should set the trend in Africa by leading in the global trend to legalise the use of medical marijuana. Instead of overzealous security personnel wasting time and effort uprooting potentially valuable cannabis plants, we should be tasking Kemri to undertake research on how we can benefit from natural cannabis extracts. The latter could be turned into medicine for various ailments. But for this to succeed, we require courageous, unconventional and innovative thinking on the part of our leaders. Think of the foreign exchange we could earn by developing cannabinoids based painkillers and exporting raw cannabis to the huge Western markets. We cannot continue playing safe while other countries are embracing the limitless medical and financial possibilities. It will be sad for the government to reconsider its stand in future not from an internal process, but as a result of some external influence. — The writer is a PhD candidate in International Relations #&"53*$&
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FBSUI Levies should improve county, park services Generation of revenue has been a major headache for most county governments, rendering them unable to provide key services. The major challenge is collection of ownsource revenue despite the fact that the devolved units have huge untapped potential. The revenue streams in counties include property rates, parking and market fees, lease rents, health service charges, business and building permits, advertisement and liquor licensing fees. However, counties have not been able to exploit their revenue potential due to lack effective and efficient collection and management systems, unregistered property, political interference, tax evasion and resistance to pay by dubious businessmen with connections to corrupt officials. There have been consisted calls for county governments to come up with more innovative ways of generating resources and seal corruption gaps. Experts have pointed out the passing of strong legislation, policies, monitoring, enforcement mechanisms and use of technology. The issue of huge debts incurred by the defunct municipal governments that were inherited by counties should also be addressed. Governors have been agitating that they be allowed to tap into the revenues collected from natural resources which they host and are managed by the National government, notably national parks and games reserves. That is why we consider the decision by President William Ruto to cede 50 per cent of the revenue collected from Amboseli and Maasai Mara Game Reserves to Kajiado and Narok county governments, respectively to be a major test on prudence for the responsible authorities. Kajiado Governor Joseph ole Lenku and his Narok counterpart Patrick ole Ntutu must also demonstrate there can be an effective mechanism of shared responsibility between the two levels of government under an environment of mutual respect to serve public interest. This is the kind of complementarity and cooperation envisioned in the Constitution. But more importantly, the resources collected from the game reserves must be used to boost service delivery and transform the lives of the targeted citizens. The move should not be an avenue for illegal and unethical accumulation of wealth by corrupt government officials. We still need to have debate about marijuana 5)06()5
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SEND YOUR OPED TO:[email protected] Thursday, August 24, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY PEOPLE SPEAK 11 When Nelson Mandela said there can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children, he was underlining the central role children occupy in a nation’s shared prosperity. Children are not only our society’s most treasured resource, but they are also the ones who will actualise our plans, hopes and dreams. Our children’s health, especially those with heart problems, should, therefore, be our number one priority for all of us as we work towards building a progressive, responsive and sustainable healthcare system. According to World Health Organisation, over 5,000 children require congenital heart surgery in Kenya each year and the number who do not receive these interventions is worrying. The incidence of congenital heart disease ranges from 19 to 75 per 1,000 live births. It is also the leading cause of birth defects and the second leading cause of death in the first year of life after infectious diseases. On an annual basis, Kenya performs between 120 and 150 congenital open-heart operations whereas 50 to 100 additional patients receive treatment outside the country, most of whom are self-funded causing considerable financial drain on these families. This does not include those with rheumatic heart disease, which accounts for a significant workload in Kenya and sub-Saharan Africa. This aligns to WHO’s estimate that the vast majority of congenital heart disease patients receive suboptimal or no care at all. The number of procedures performed by the local team has remained desperately low for several years despite no shortage of patients. As Nairobi Hospital, we believe this trend can be reversed and managed locally with proper institutional and policy interventions in our healthcare system. This is why the hospital has put in place a charity arm that offers free heart operations for needy children aged between 0 and 12 years with congenital heart conditions. Over the years, this initiative has benefitted more than 380 children from humble backgrounds because we believe in offering our patients the best care using advanced technology in an atmosphere of trust, safety and comfort. Medical experts confirm that heart operations are by all means expensive and the costs involved are beyond the ability of the average Kenyan family. The cost of heart surgery and post-surgery ranges between Sh550,000 to Sh800,000 depending on the complexity of the heart condition and this excludes the doctors’ fees. Therefore, as a premier medical facility in East and Central Africa, we have decided to not only strengthen our technical capacity, but also mobilise other corporates to be a part of this charity drive to benefit children from low-income families have cardiac surgeries. In this regard, we recently acquired and installed a fullyfledged state-of-the-art Biplane Cath Lab for cardio, neuro and vascular treatment services, the first such facility in East and Central Africa. With the goal of ensuring that more poor children benefit, the hospital has this year partnered with corporates and other well-wishers to raise funds to cater for treatment of 20 children with heart complications. Some of the corporates that are taking part in this charity effort include Generics Africa, Sciencescope, NCBA Bank, Crown Healthcare, Smart Applications, Surgipharm, Bio-quest Ltd, among others. The annual charity drive has been running for two years now and a bigger one has been planned for next year to support more children. Indeed, giving these little hearts big dreams which is the theme of our heart charity, we will have significantly enabled them to play a productive role in national development. Let us support our children with heart problems by transforming Kenya into a preferred destination for heart treatment in Africa. — The writer is the chief executive, The Nairobi Hospital Is moon exploration redefining moment for Kenya? Let us support needy children with heart ailments Five, four, three, two, one, and lift off, the most powerful space telescope ever made, the epic James Web Space Telescope (JWST), began its voyage back to the birth of the universe to the edge of time from the tropical rainforest of the Ariane Launch Complex at the Guiana Space Center in Kourou, French Guiana. Twenty-three minutes after lift-off, Malindis Luigi Broglio Space Centre, tracked the Ariane 5 launch vehicle in flight, a mere five minutes before James Webb Space Telescope separated from the rocket to embark on its solitary journey in space. In the world of cosmology, Kenya sits in a strategic geographic location for space launches and telemetry. Its proximity to the equator and a stable government amplified its choice for space programmes by the Italian government and NASA when they were scouting for favourable launching sites. Meanwhile, world powers have embarked on a captivating new space race, driven by the belief that the moon holds immense potential as the next frontier for abundant natural resources. In a significant milestone in 2008, India successfully launched the Chandrayaan-1 mission, which unveiled a groundbreaking revelation: the presence of water on the lunar surface, manifested as hydrogen and oxygen molecules. This remarkable discovery holds profound implications, as hydrogen and oxygen serve as vital components for the production of rocket fuel. Experts believe the moon has many elements like rare helium-3, a component for nuclear energy inside a nuclear reactor. Helium-3 is a clean green fuel that is scarce on Earth. However, NASA thinks there is ample supply on the moon. The moon surface may have more treasures like iron, titanium, aluminum, magnesium and silicon, used in almost every electronic gadget. After 47 years in the cold, Russia launched Luna-25 with the goal of revealing the intriguing secrets hidden within the Moon’s southern pole. The United States, China and India are in this race. NASA, the esteemed space agency of the United States, is currently engaged in the ambitious Artemis II mission. This pioneering endeavour seeks to accomplish an extraordinary feat: the triumphant return of humans to the Moon, marking a significant milestone after a hiatus spanning over five decades. Scheduled for November 2024, Artemis II will dispatch a team of four highly skilled astronauts on a momentous 10-day expedition into the vast expanse of space. Meanwhile, China has set its sights on studying the lunar surface by meticulously examining the Moons’ geological composition and unraveling its mysteries. The Luigi Broglio Space Centre is recognised for its exceptional satellite tracking and telemetry services. It monitors the operational status, and precise path of satellites in orbit. Besides supporting satellite launches, the centre actively engages in collaborative efforts with esteemed space agencies and organisations. Through these partnerships, it contributes significantly to diverse domains of space science, encompassing Earth observation, climate monitoring, astronomy, and astrophysics. Given these factors, the Kenyan government must maintain unwavering determination to secure a fair share of the profits generated from the facility, as outlined in the agreement between the two nations. They must establish the bedrock of this partnership on the principles of transparency and accountability. Kenya can reap many benefits from The Luigi Broglio Space Center, including lease payments, technological collaboration with Italy, enhanced international relations, capacity building, and educational and research opportunities. The centre holds the potential to boost Kenya’s local economy, foster stronger international relations, and provide Kenyan students with access to advanced space technology and expertise. — The writer is an Innovations Evangelist and a PhD Candidate +".&4
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&%*503 / / / @PeopleDailyKe / / / People Daily K 6WUDQJHUGLYHV LQWRODNHWRILQG ORVWPRELOHSKRQH A woman’s unfortunate mishap turned into a heartwarming rescue when her dropped phone into a New Hampshire lake found an unlikely saviour. The Sunapee Police Department said in a Facebook post that Dianne Bonfiglio accidentally dropped her cellphone in the dock area of the lake over the weekend, prompting concern for its recovery from the deep waters. Fortunately, a young man named Simon happened to be on a pontoon boat nearby with his friends. Displaying exceptional kindness, Simon volunteered to dive into the lake and search for the submerged phone, which had sunk to a depth of 15 feet. Equipped with goggles donated by a worker at Harborside Trading, Simon ventured underwater and succeeded in retrieving the phone on his very first dive. “There was a crowd of onlookers that all cheered when he found it and when Dianne realized the phone still worked,” the post said. The heartening moment was witnessed by a crowd of onlookers who cheered as Simon surfaced with the phone. Miraculously, the retrieved phone still functioned properly. Moved by Simon’s selfless actions, the Sunapee Police Department affectionately dubbed him “Saint Simon” for his heroic efforts. The incident serves as a reminder of the goodwill that exists within communities, where strangers come together to offer assistance in times of need. —Agencies ODDLY ENOUGH TRUTHIS: Learn from God. then make Him known. Absolutely phenomenal @KIMANIICHUNGWAH: Congratulations to Faith Kipyegon for her awe-inspiring victory and Kenya’s first gold medal at the Budapest World Athletics Championship. Kenya couldn’t be prouder of its golden girl,Faith Kipyegon. Where’s the logic? @Kabogo_Henry: Why would Kirinyaga QWoman Rep Njeri Maina be airlifted to Nairobi when teh President and Kirinyaga Governor Ann Waiguru recently opened a State-of-the-Art hospital in Kirinyaga. Learn to value people @KiharaMakena: Learn to value people more in spite of their wealth. Capitalism brought to us by the west has virtually obliterated our ability to view others through the Ubuntu lens. Hence we have become sycophantic to anyone with more money than us. Corruption claims @Cypy254: Former Kakamega Governor Wycliffe Oparanya has been arrested due to corruption and abuse of power. It’s a big blow to Azimio supporters and Kalenjins are now relieved that they can now travel to Finland to do their overseas jobs! Freedom Finally

12 NEWS BEAT PEOPLE DAILY / Thursday, August 24, 2023 More than Sh80 million has been set aside to build new classrooms, renovate old ones and build laboratories and ablution blocks in Juja, Kiambu County. MP George Koimburi revealed that implementation of 15 projects had started in various parts of the constituency. He said the school infrastructure projects are expected to boost academic performance in the constituenc. Most schools in the constituency do not have enough classrooms and existing ones are rundown. “For many years, Juja schools have been neglected. Most lack basic infrastructure such as toilets and classrooms,” Koimburi said at Karamaini Secondary School where he launched a Sh5.6 laboratory. -Mathew Ndung’u Juja schools to get Sh80m upgrade
 by Wycliff Kipsang’ @cliffsang08 ODM has waded into the Uasin Gishu Finland Scholarships saga which has seen hundreds of students stranded after funds were allegedly embezzled. Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago, who was governor when the scholarship programme was initiated, has come under fire after the County Assembly’s ad-hoc committee which investigated the scholarship scam found that three senior officials in his administration were responsible for the mess. The committee disclosed that the three made themselves signatories of the fund and withdrew millions of shillings on diverse dates. ODM yesterday said action must be taken against all those who are responsible for loss of funds. “The Uasin Gishu student airlift scam came to light when parents and their children, hopeful for better educational opportunities, were instead met with shattered dreams and financial ruin,” the Raila Odinga-led party said in a statement. ODM said the scandal had raised questions about the integrity and accountability of some public officials. “This incident is not an isolated occurrence but rather a reflection of a broader trend within the William Ruto-led Kenya Kwanza political circle,” the party’s said. Ex-governor arrest The opposition party said the Uasin Gishu student airlift scam was a grave violation of public trust. It called on the relevant criminal justice agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to uncover the truth and deliver justice to the victims. “It is imperative that the perpetrators of this deceitful scheme… be held accountable for their actions. The affected families are not only deserving of restitution but Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago (right) with his lawyer Stephen Kibungei when he and three others were arraigned at a Nakuru court on August 17. PD/ RAPHAEL MUNGE )LQODQGHGXFDWLRQ IXQGVVFDPffl2'0 GHPDQGVMXVWLFH Party says scandal had confirmed that corruption was rampant despite efforts to eradicate it also desire to see the rule of law upheld and justice served,” said ODM. Mandago was last week arrested by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and subsequently arraigned in a Nakuru court over the loss of more than Sh800 million meant for hundreds of students. The Senator has maintained innocence over the botched scholarship which has seen the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) roll out investigations into the matter. Mandago said he meant well for the children of Uasin Gishu wishing to further their studies abroad when he came up with the programme. “I could not have started this programme with bad intentions. I started it because I believed it was going to transform lives,” he said. Ruto warning Speaking when he presided over the opening of the 8th Devolution Conference in Eldoret last week, President William Ruto warned that those responsible for the scandal would be brought to book. “We will not protect any government official involved in graft. Everybody will carry their own cross,” said Ruto. In its statement, ODM said the Uasin Gishu student airlift scam had “exposed the vulnerabilities within the system that allow unscrupulous individuals to exploit the aspirations of innocent citizens for personal gain”. The party said the Uasin Gishu student airlift scam served as a stark reminder that the fight against corruption was far from over, citing withdrawal of high-profile criminal cases and appointment into public positions of persons of questionable integrity. by David Macharia @PeopleDailyKe Laikipia County Government’s plan to sack casual workers yesterday was cancelled at the last minute following a disagreement between the Executive and MCAs. MCAs said sacking the workers would undermine them politically. Governor Joshua Irungu (pictured) said that after consultation with the Assembly, it was decided to put off the retrenchment “since some of the targeted casuals were specialist doctors serving in the health sector while others had unexpired contracts.” Insiders said the MCAs had warned the governor that sacking the casuals would open a floodgate of legal actions against the county government by those whose contracts had not expired. County Secretary Koinange Wahome, however, maintained that the planned retrenchment was still on. “We have agreed to extend the contract of the current casuals by extra three months before recruiting a new cohort or renewing contracts,” he said. He added: “In the meantime the status quo of the staff currently engaged on temporary terms shall be maintained.” Job seekers who had turned up at the Nyahururu Social Hall in the morning found notices announcing the cancellation of scheduled recruitment of temporary employees. The recruitment had been announced by the County Secretary in a notice dated August 15. In May, Koinange directed heads of departments to issue dismissal letters to casuals who were hired by former Governor Ndiritu Muriithi’s administration. /DLNLSLD0&$VSURWHVWWRVWRSILULQJRIFDVXDOZRUNHUV On Thursday, Mandago and two of his co-accused were released on a bond of Sh2 million with a surety of the same amount or a cash bail of Sh500,000. Nakuru Senior Principal Magistrate Alloyce Ndege ruled that the three return later for plea-taking. The Senator is among three others in the spotlight over the Finland and Canada Overseas Education Programme. They are ex-officials Joseph Maritim (1st respondent), Meshack Rono (2nd respondent) and Joshua Lelei (3rd respondent). They are accused of conspiring to steal Sh1.1 billion from a Kenya Commercial Bank account in Eldoret registered under the Uasin Gishu Education Trust Fund, which was intended for overseas university fees for scholarship students. The Uasin Gishu Education Trust Fund Account was opened in May 2021 and by December 2022, a total of Sh957,167,143 had been credited to the account by parents. A total of Sh257,326,740 was debited from the Uasin Gishu Overseas Account to beneficiaries indicated as agents and or intermediaries for onward transmission to universities in Finland and Canada. We also established that Sh20.9 million had been overpaid to universities in Finland. EACC detectives have raided the homes of three signatories of the fund and seized documents in the probe of loss of funds meant to airlift 202 students to three Finnish universities. The parents also raised Sh100,000 (air ticket), three months accommodation (Sh80,000), insurance (Sh30,000), visa (Sh49,000) and Covid-19 certificate Sh5,000. MANDAGO AND OTHERS Former Governor Jackson Mandago (now Senator) was last week arrested by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations and subsequently arraigned in a Nakuru court over the loss of more than Sh800 million meant for hundreds of students. On Thursday, Mandago and two of his co-accused were released on a bond of Sh2 million with a surety of the same amount or a cash bail of Sh500,000. Nakuru Senior Principal Magistrate Alloyce Ndege ruled that the three return later for plea-taking. by Clement Kamau @PeopleDailyKe The government is giving priority to stalled road projects, Principal Secretary Joseph Mbugua said yesterday. Mbugua said contractors had started works across the country and the government expects the projects to be completed within a short time since many of the projects were half done. The Roads PS was speaking at Nyambari in Lari, Kiambu County, during an inspection tour of the Nyambari-Uplands-Githunguri road whose construction has stalled for close to 20 years. Accompanied by Lari MP Mburu Kahangara and the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) Director General Kung’u Ndung’u, Mbugua said the government was facing a serious financial crunch. “There is a huge pending bill of about Sh150 billion which the government is working overdrive to unlock and once that is done you will see contractors on ongoing projects getting back to site,” he said. The PS regretted that construction of roads in some areas was being delayed due to succession wrangles. “The government is always ready to compensate those whose land is affected by road construction but in some cases, it becomes hard because of succession wrangles,” he said. Mbugua (pictured) directed contractors to ensure that those employed as skilled and unskilled personnel are drawn from the project area. 6WDWHZLOO FRPSOHWHDOO VWDOOHGURDG SURMHFWVffl36 COUNTY NEWS

Thursday, August 24, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY NEWS BEAT 13 by Zadock Angira @PeopleDailyKe Police officers will get a pay raise this month following the conclusion of a job evaluation process by the National Police Service Commission (NPSC). NPSC chairperson Eliud Kinuthia (pictured) yesterday said the review was arrived at following a consensus from a process undertaken jointly with the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC). “We have participated fully with the SRC to ensure this is successful,” Kinuthia said. The third remuneration review cycle affects both the uniformed officers and civilians within the service, and the process is in line with the review cycle of the civil servants’ pay as provided for by the Constitution. The increment however is not related to the yet-to-be released David Maragaled Taskforce. “There is a clear delineation of mandate between a constitutional commission and a taskforce. It would have happened whether or not the taskforce was in place or not, the Presidential Taskforce is in fact had higher mandate,” the chairman said. Final phase The first circular on police review was released in 2019 following the third phase of increment with the second one being issued in 2020 for the final phase of the previous administration. The move comes as a big relief to the officers who have never had an increment for the last two years. Out of Sh27.1 billion released by the Treasury for pay increment, police get Sh3.6 billion. Some Sh2.84 billion will be released in the 2023-24 financial year while Sh1.3billion being set for the next financial year. Inspector General of police Japhet Koome said the money will reflect in the payslips by tomorrow. Koome had told his juniors the increase will not be effected as announced by the Salaries Remuneration Commission. Instead he told his officers to be patient until a task force formed to review police affairs completes its work. New salaries “Please note that, my attention has been draw to information appearing in the media regarding new salaries for members of the National Police Service.” “Consequently, you are asked to inform all members of the National Police Service to be patient for the next few weeks with a view to waiting for release of the Presidential Taskforce on reforms in the National Police Service report/ recommendations to the appointing authority,” he said in an internal memo. He said once this has been done, all will be informed on the new salaries and allowances by this office. 3ROLFHRIILFHUVWR UHFHLYHSD\UDLVH IURPWRPRUURZ MARAGA TASKFORCE The terms of reference of the retired Chief Justice David Maraga taskforce are to review the human capital management and development policies with a view of examining and reviewing standards and practices in recruitment, deployment, transfers, training, career progression, performancebased and competitive promotions, reward, exit, and post-exit management. The move will come as a relief to officers as they have not received salary increment in two years by Gidraph Mwangi @PeopleDailyKe A businessman suspected to have fraudulently acquired Sh11.6 million from his client to import vehicles for him will be held in police custody for ten more days to help the investigating officers to complete their probe. In an affidavit presented before the Milimani court, the investigating officer Sammy Shamalla requested the court to give orders for the accused to be held for 10 days to allow conclusion of the investigation. The accused, Daniel Mwaura Hinga, is said to have received Sh11.6 million from Eugene Oigara by duping him that he was in a position to import two cars for him. The court heard that the accused promised to import a BMW M3 vehicle valued at Sh392,000 and in another Sh3,400,000 for purchasing another BMW X3. The offence allegedly took place on diverse dates between May 30 and July 20, 2023 in Westlands area, Nairobi county. The accused was arrested yesterday and held at Parklands police station. In the affidavit, the complainant sought the accused’s assistance in clearing a Land Rover Defender which was at the port in Mombasa and a given Sh4,340,000 for the task, only to pocket the money. “Upon receiving the money from the complainant, he diverted it to purchase his personal vehicles and we fear he will interfere with the exhibits,” said the officer. The magistrate Wandia Nyamu granted the orders for the accused to be held for 10 days. The matter will be mentioned on September 5, 2023. &DUGHDOHULQFRXUWIRUGHIUDXGLQJFOLHQW6KP by Reuben Mwambingu @reubenmwambingu Ten suspects have been arrested in connection with a consignment of fertiliser which was reportedly stolen from a warehouse in Changamwe, Mombasa county on Monday. The suspects were arrested after 349 bags of the stolen fertiliser were traced to a storage facility in Kadzandani area, Nyali Sub County police commander Daniel Masaba said. According to Masaba, the suspects broke into the Changamwe warehouse at around 3am. Loaded lorry “We received a report about fertiliser stolen at a warehouse in Changamwe and we began acting on the report. Police in Changamwe working in conjunction with their counterparts in Kadzandani started tracing the fertiliser following the leads,” Masaba said. In the process of combing the Kadzandani area, the police boss said the officers encountered a loaded lorry which was immediately flagged down. “They ordered the occupants to open the truck and on inspection several bags of fertiliser were found,” said the sub county police commander. 7HQVXVSHFWVDUUHVWHGRYHU PLVVLQJIHUWLOLVHULQ0RPEDVD Magistrate Wandia Nyamu

14 NEWS BEAT PEOPLE DAILY / Thursday, August 24, 2023 )DUPHUVWR EHQHILWIURP VRLOKHDOWK FDPSDLJQ More than 7, 000 farmers in Kisumu county are set to benefit from a free rapid soil testing campaign to boost food production. The exercise spearheaded by the Kenya Crops and Dairy Market Systems (KCDMS), targets to equip farmers with the right information about soil nutrition to enable them make informed decisions regarding fertilisation and crop selection. This comes after results of soil samples taken from different parts of the county revealed that it was acidic resulting to poor yields. KCDMS technical director Seth Yake said the campaign targets to sensitize farmers on the importance of soil testing. He said that even though the uptake of fertilizer in the area was commendable, farmers lack information on the right type of fertilizers for their soils. “We have seen from the tests that have been done in this region that the soils are very acidic. This means farmers must make very deliberate steps to amend this by improving the pH to the required level to increase productivity,” he said. Speaking during the launch of the campaign in Kisumu, Yake said the exercise which runs up to mid next month, would help farmers to understand the limitations of their soil and make efforts to bridge the gaps. Addressing scepticism He revealed that KCDMS, which is under a USAID-funded Feed the Future Initiative, was working closely with the County Government and agro dealers to ensure as many farmers as possible access soil testing services to boost food production. He challenged the private sector to take up soil testing to reach more farmers and create job opportunities for the youth. Besides Kisumu, he said, the testing was also being carried out in Kisii, Kakamega, Busia, Bungoma, Vihiga and Siaya counties. The culmination of the campaign, he said, will involve setting up soil testing clinics in all the seven counties. Manned by qualified technicians and agronomists, the clinics, he said, will provide farmers with immediate, personalised soil reports and recommendations. Kisumu County Chief Officer in charge of agriculture Erick Omondi said the team would traverse all the 35 wards in the devolved unit sensitizing and training farmers on soil testing and management. –KNA +RZPRGLI\LQJPRVTXLWR JHQHVFDQKHOSHQGPDODULD by Shüné Oliver and Jaishree Raman It’s been 126 years since British medical doctor Sir Ronald Ross discovered that mosquitoes in the Anopheles family are primarily responsible for transmitting malaria parasites between vertebrate hosts. Since his discovery, mosquitoes have been found to carry and transmit many other diseases that pose a major threat to public health. Among them are yellow fever, dengue and Zika. Currently, malaria is the most lethal mosquito-transmitted disease. The World Health Organisation (WHO) reported an estimated 247 million cases of malaria worldwide in 2021 and 619,000 deaths. Almost all cases and deaths were in African countries. Other diseases transmitted by mosquitoes are also a source of immense human suffering. It is estimated that dengue infects about 390 million people annually. And thousands are affected by Zika, chikungunya and yellow fever. Insects that transmit diseases to humans are known as vectors and the diseases they transmit are referred to as vector-borne diseases. These diseases are very difficult to control. They generally have complex life cycles, involving both the insect and the human host. Conventional methods to control vectorborne diseases have targeted the vectors, focusing on reducing their opportunities to come into contact with humans. This is particularly true for malaria. Insecticide-treated nets serve a dual function by acting as a physical barrier between the mosquito vector and humans, and exposing the mosquito to a lethal dose of insecticide when it lands on the net. In another common control method, mosquitoes are exposed to a lethal dose of insecticide through indoor residual spraying. Elimination efforts Both nets and indoor spraying have played a major role in reducing African countries’ malaria burden. But their sustained efficacy is under threat. Many vector populations have become resistant to the insecticides used in these methods. They have also changed their behaviours to reduce their contact with those insecticides. Scientists are working to address these issues. But other methods that don’t rely on insecticides are needed in the fight against mosquito-borne diseases. That’s where genetic modification comes in. We are researchers focused on finding novel ways to advance malaria elimination efforts and are excited about recent advances in genomic research that make genetic modification a realistic option for malaria control in particular. As with other approaches to controlling or eventually eradicating the disease, this won’t be a complete solution. But it’s got the potential to strengthen the global fight against malaria. Mosquitoes can be genetically modified through two different technologies. The first method, paratransgenesis, involves Scientists have shown that a new kind of genetic engineering can crash populations of malariaspreading parasites QUICK READ The World Health Organization (WHO) reported an estimated 247 million cases of malaria worldwide in 2021 and 619,000 deaths. Almost all cases and deaths were in African countries. Other diseases transmitted by mosquitoes are also a source of immense human suffering. It is estimated that dengue infects about 390 million people annually. And thousands are affected by Zika, Chikungunya and yellow fever. Kisumu Chief Officer in charge of Agriculture Erick Omondi flags off the soil health campaign caravan, yesterday. KNA how crucial community engagement will be to the success of any future gene drive interventions. This is important in an environment where there is marked scepticism about science, and particularly about genetically modified organisms (GMOs). In 2003, community resistance resulted in the rejection of genetically modified golden rice in Zambia, despite the country experiencing a pronounced food shortage. More recently, there was backlash against the Covid-19 mRNA vaccines, which some people suspected of being capable of altering human DNA (it isn’t). It is critical that the concerns of communities where genetically modified mosquitoes are to be released are addressed prior to any release. This will help promote acceptance and understanding of the new technology. Considerable investment However, community acceptance is not the only challenge. There is an urgent need for research on the relevant local malaria mosquito species so that the required genetically modified mosquitoes can be developed. Once the genetically modified lines are established, impact in the field must be demonstrated and systems established to ensure suitable numbers of mosquitoes can be reared and safely transported to the intervention sites. All this requires considerable human resources and funding, suggesting that it will be some time before gene drive systems have real-world impact on malaria transmission. Still, as the globe marked World Mosquito Day on 20 August, in honour of Sir Ronald Ross’s discovery almost 130 years ago, we believe there is reason for optimism: novel technologies like genetic modification have the potential to play a major role in the fight against malaria. This article was first published in Conversation Africa infecting mosquitoes with bacteria that prevent them from transmitting malaria. This doesn’t harm the mosquito. It is important not to eliminate or harm mosquitoes because they pollinate many plants and are food for animals like bats, birds and reptiles. Scientists are excited about this method following the recent discovery of a bacterium that occurs naturally in mosquitoes’ guts and appears to prevent the malaria parasite from developing inside the mosquito. The second method involves genetically modifying the mosquitoes themselves. This approach centres on gene drives: genetic systems that ensure genes of interest are inherited by all offspring in every generation. There are two types of gene drive. One aims to reduce the vector population size and is known as population suppression. The other aims to prevent the mosquito from transmitting malaria; it is known as population modification. Gene drives focusing on population suppression have shown great promise in laboratory studies. They’ve yet to be tested in the field, though. Population modification potentially has fewer environmental effects and is less prone to developing mutations. But it has proved more challenging to achieve and has not progressed as far as the suppression approach. Addressing scepticism It will be a while before this technology is routinely used by malaria control programmes. But preparation is under way. Over the past decade, malaria control programmes have expressed a willingness to use genetic modification if and when such techniques are shown to be safe and acceptable to the affected communities. This has prompted the WHO to provide guidance on the use of genetically modified mosquitoes to control malaria and other vector-borne diseases. In its guidance, the WHO acknowledges Genetic modification could make malaria-carrying mosquitoes harmless. PD/FILE

Thursday, August 24, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY NEWS BEAT 15 6DNDMD·VKLWVDQG PLVVHVLQKLVRQH \HDUDVJRYHUQRU by Alvin Mwangi  @PeopleDailyKe Nairobi governor Johnson Sakaja is this week set to mark one year in office, having chalked up a mixed scorecard of successes and failures. Sakaja, who has had a fair share of challenges since he took office, continues to walk a tight rope, balance between the interests of Azimio, which has more MCAs in the County Assembly on the one hand and Kenya Kwanza, which formed government after the August 2022 election. To his credit, Sakaja has increased own source revenue that the county collects to Sh10.6 billion. According to data from the county Finance Department, Sh10.6 billion is the highest achieved by City Hall in the last five years. In the 2021-22 year, the county collected Sh8.9 billion while Sh9.7 billion was raised in 2020-21. The lowest collected was Sh8.5 billion in 2019-20, which was half the targeted Sh17.31 billion. The 2018-19 financial year was no better, as the revenue was Sh10.17 billion, Sh5 billion less than the target of Sh15.29 billion. Nairobi has not met its revenue targets since 2013. The highest amount ever collected was Sh11.71 billion in 2015-16, which was still far short of the Sh15.3 billion target. During his first year in office, Sakaja launched an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Mama Lucy Kibaki hospital, reducing numerous referrals to other facilities, especially the already congested Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). The initial capacity launched is a fourbed unit that serves the densely populated Embakasi Central constituency as well as the neighbouring sub-counties, hence easing the burden of KNH. During the launch, he said the plan was to have ICU/HDU facilities in all Level Five hospitals, so as to cater for patients referred from surrounding lower level facilities. The pledge is yet to be fulfilled. However, the county government also completed a three-bed renal unit and a blood bank. This will be the second one in Nairobi, with the first renal unit in a county-owned facility launched in 2019 at the Mbagathi Hospital. Final stages On education, the county government has made progress with 10 kitchens in the final stages of completion as part of a school feeding programme targeting learners in public institutions. These are expected to deliver meals for 250,000 learners in public primary and nursery schools in the capital as promised during the launch presided over by President William Ruto in Roysambu Constituency. Parents and guardians will be expected to pay Sh5 per plate per child. According to Sakaja, the programme aims at cushioning poor and vulnerable parents from the current economic shocks while keeping children in schools. The end game is to increase enrolment and transition to higher learning institutions in public primary schools and ECDs Nairobi governor has raised own source revenue but has more work to do on garbage collection, order across 17 sub-counties in Nairobi. The kitchens will be constructed in Baba Dogo Primary School, Bidii Primary School, Kwa Njenga Primary, Farasi Lane Primary, Muthangari Primary, Kayole One Primary, Njiru Primary, Toi Primary, Roysambu Primary and Racecourse Primary School. “The school feeding Industrial Area mega kitchen facility will provide at least 60,000 plates per day to back-up schools that might fall short of the required meals,” Sakaja said during the launch of the initiative. Ongoing investigations Despite the successes Sakaja has however had a fair share of troubles, including the ongoing investigation by Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) over payment of legal firms. DCI says the nine listed firms are believed to have been used in a money laundering scheme and fraudulent payments. In a letter dated July 21, the Director of DCI’s Investigations Bureau (IB) David Birech wrote to Nairobi Governor Johnson. Sakaja demanding a list of tender documents, requisitions by user department, award contracts, delivery and inspection reports and all local purchase orders issued to profiled nine companies believed to have been used to siphon the money. “This office is investigating a case of suspected money laundering in which Nairobi County Government is alleged to have fraudulently made payments to companies which did not render services,” Birech wrote. “We further request to assign officers who have knowledge of the various processes listed above to assist us with information on their roles and record statements to that effect”. The payments have even led to the dramatic sacking of former county attorney Lydia Kwamboka. Kwamboka said she received her sacking after she appeared before the County Assembly Justice and Legal Committee where she expressed her frustrations by some officials from the Finance Department. Away from the legal battles, a walk across the Central Business District CBD will also reveal that Sakaja has been unable to deal with congestion largely caused by proliferation of hawkers who operate haphazardly from pavements, inconveniencing pedestrians. People Daily team carried out a spot check across major streets within CBD to assess the situation of hawkers’ invasion in public places. It established that Moi Avenue, Tom Mboya Street and River Road were among the areas and walkways most affected by hawkers. Kimathi street has also been affected as hawkers spread to sell their commodities even as City Council askaris patrol around with their old rusty vehicles. Sakaja also has problems with garbage collection, which has turned many residential areas in Nairobi into eyesores due to lack of proper structures to ensure residents dispose waste responsibly and county personnel collect the garbage regularly. Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja during his swearing in ceremony at KICC in Nairobi on August 25, last year. PD/FILE SCORECARD Sakaja launched an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Mama Lucy Kibaki hospital, reducing numerous referrals to other facilities, especially the already congested Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). Despite the successes Sakaja has however had a fair share of troubles, including the ongoing investigation by Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) over payment of legal firms. Garbage collection also remains a problem in many residential areas. +0)/40/
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:DWFKGRJILQHVVWHHOILUPV 6KflPIRUFDUWHOFRQGXFW by Noel Wandera @NoelWanderah Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) has fined nine steel companies, among them Devki Steel Mills, a total of Sh338.8 million for price fixing and output restriction. Price fixing and output restriction are two forms of collusion that has harmful effects on the economy. Price fixing occurs when firms agree to charge the same price for their products, while output restriction is when the firms agree to limit the quantity of goods they produce. “The Authority has pursuant to an investigation, penalised nine (9) steel manufacturers a total of Sh338,849,427.89. The companies engaged in cartel conduct whose effect was to increase the cost of construction of homes and infrastructure by artificially inflating the prices of steel products,” CAK acting Director General Adano Wario said. Steel products including bars, pipes, beams, and sheets, account for over 20 per cent of the total cost of constructing a house. Also fined alongside Devki were Nail and Steel Products Ltd, Brollo Kenya Ltd; Blue Nile Wire Products Ltd; Tononoka Rolling Mills Ltd, Doshi & Hardware Ltd; Corrugated Steel Ltd; Jumbo Steel Mills and Accurate Steel Mills Ltd. Further, the firms, except for Accurate Steel Mills, have been penalised for output restriction by agreeing to limit imports of certain steel components, thereby causing an HARMFUL SCHEMING Price fixing and output restriction are two forms of collusion that has harmful effects on the economy. Price fixing occurs when firms agree to charge the same price for their products, while output restriction is when they agree to limit quantity of goods they produce. artificial shortage that raised prices, Wario said. He added: “Price fixing and output restriction are illegal under the Competition Act since they hinder competition in markets (business-customer environment).” “Competitive markets benefit consumers through lower prices, increased choice, and quality of goods and services. Business rivals are also motivated to innovate.” Wario said the penalty is the highest-ever imposed by the Authority and it should send a clear message that cartel conduct is illegal under the Competition Act. “In a liberalised market like ours, the forces of supply and demand should signal prices, free from manipulative business practices. Agreements between competitors seek to defeat this fundamental facet of a free economy,” he stated. According to CAK, the misconduct of the companies directly contributed to high steel prices which has increased the cost of construction in the country. The regulator detailed that the investigations into the allegation of price fixing began in 2020 after developers filed several complaints. It carried out a series of raids in specific companies during the period in between to determine if the allegations were true. Meanwhile, the Authority has approved the proposed acquisition of 100 per cent shares in Kopo Kopo Inc. by Moniepoint Inc. unconditionally, noting that the merger is unlikely to negatively impact competition in the market for digital credit, neither would it elicit negative public interest concerns. Moniepoint Inc., is incorporated in the US with subsidiaries in Nigeria and the UK, (Teamapt Limited and Moniepoint Microfinance Bank) and the United Kingdom, while Kopo Kopo Inc., is also incorporated in the US with operations in Kenya under the brand Kopo Kopo Inc. “Given that Moniepoint does not have current operations in Kenya, the firm had no turnover or assets in the preceding year to lodging the merger application (2022),” Wario said. CAK penalises nine companies, among them Devki, for price fixing and output restriction President William Ruto commissioning Devki Steel Mills in Kwale on November 18. PCS
K   KCB Group has recorded a 54 per cent growth in total assets to Sh1.86 trillion in the first half of the year ending June 30, 2023, with net profit closing at Sh16.1 billion. Group chief executive Paul Russso attributed the balance sheet growth to the consolidation of Trust Merchant Bank (TMB) that was acquired in December 2022 and increase in customer deposits to Sh1.47 trillion. In a statement, Russo said despite a challenging economic environment across the lender’s operating markets, business remained resilient delivering a strong balance sheet and increased contribution from regional businesses. “Profitability was under pressure in the first half from increased funding costs on higher market deposits rates, prudent provisioning on legacy credit facilities, and provisions for legacy legal claims at the National Bank of Kenya,” Russo said. Group chairman Joseph Kinyua said “the bank is well positioned for future growth, riding on its solid governance structures and digital capabilities, strong regional presence and committed staff to support customers and other stakeholders.” “We are deliberate in making a meaningful transformation for communities and making a greater contribution towards economic progress across markets,” he added. During the review period, the lenders loan book increased by 32 per cent to Sh964.8 billion from Sh730.3 billion last year, while revenue grew by 22.2 per cent to Sh73.1billion, driven by consolidation and growth of TMB, growth in customer loans and non-funded income stream. The income stream was propelled by fees and commission as well as sustained growth of digital channel transactions and volumes. On the revenues front, funded income increased 12.1 per cent to Sh45.5 billion on loans and government securities growth to offset the growth in interest expense from increased cost of funding. – Noel Wandera KCB Group records 54pc growth in total assets to Sh1.86tr 16 BUSINESS HUB FOR MORE NEWS VISIT: www.pd.co.ke / www.epaper. pd.co.ke Thursday, August 24, 2023 by John Otini @PeopleDailyKe The government is expected to reveal the changes in the current fuel pricing formula next week in changes that could have implications on what consumers pay. A taskforce to review fuel pricing mechanisms was constituted in May this year. The review, being partly pushed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), is being carried out on the premise that the current pricing regime has failed to reflect the prevailing market conditions. The Bretton Woods institution confirmed in its review of aid conditions that a taskforce had been set up to review the fuel pricing mechanisms to ensure that fuel pricing decisions are aligned with budgeted resources at all times was constituted in May 2023. “While the reviewing of the pricing mechanisms has begun, the delays in establishing the taskforce had impacted the timeline for the review of fuel prices,” IMF said. It added that findings of the taskforce are expected to be publicly communicated by the end of this month. Kenya has suffered multiple price shocks due to high fuel prices arising from shortages of forex, high demand, price fluctuations on the international prices among other things. The country has the highest oil prices in the region partly due to a pricing agreement between the government of Kenya and Saudi Arabia and other Gulf nations that has seen prices pegged higher than the prevailing prices. Prices of oil have an impact on most of the goods and services offered in the country due to the transport and energy component. The government also added value added tax (VAT) on fuel prices impacting the prices of many things and raising inflation across the board. Nearly a quarter of Kenya’s imports are made of crude oil making it a key foreign exchange expense. *.' "
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%RRVWIRUIDUPHUVDKHDGRIDYRFDGRH[SRUWVWR,QGLD MARKET: Farmers and traders will start exporting avocados to India from next month, Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (Kephis) confirmed yesterday. Managing director Prof Theophilus Mutui stated that the Indian government last week approved Kenya’s request to export avocados, a new move expected to boost Kenya’s plan to expand her share in the international market. “We received a communication from the India government dated August 16, 2023 confirming opening of the market by the Asian country. The India government allowed Kenya avocado market access after notifying the World Trade Organisation (WTO) about the same,” he said. Mutui made remarks in an interview after attending a Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) awareness meeting with captains of industry organised by the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) at a Nairobi Hotel. He lauded the move, saying it shows that export destinations continue to increase and thus help farmers to grow more avocados. The communication details the conditions Kenya has to meet before the fruits are allowed to access the Asian country market. Kenya is already exporting avocados to the world’s most populous country, China. “Kephis has shared the communication details with value chain players and especially farmers groups such as Avocado Society of Kenya (ASK) and Produce Consortium of Kenya,” Mutui explained. Kenya, he added, is still negotiating with the United States of America, South Korea and Jordan on market access of avocado. The inaugural export of the avocados will be undertaken through the Kenya High Commission to India in the next two weeks. Targeted markets The targeted markets will add on the existing European and MiddleEast markets that are currently major destinations for Kenya’s produce and thus cushion the country against stiff competition from Latin America. In the communication India says Kenya avocados must be fumigated and free of pests. The Indian Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has listed various pests that the Kenya government needs to tame before shipping the fruits. Farmers under the ASK welcomed the Indian government gesture saying it will help in expanding Kenya’s market share globally. “We appreciate the gesture as our farmers will now be able to sell their fruits in India. However, we appeal through the Government to negotiate for zerorating of the export duty currently charged by the Indian Government of 30 per cent. This might deny us the competitiveness our avocados are enjoying in other segments of the global market,” said Ernst Muthomi, the ASK chief executive. Kenya is among the top 10 producers of avocado in the world and currently farmers in the country have diversified into avocado farming in the last decade owing to premium prices. – Nicholas Waitathu Tatu City and the ChinaAfrica Economic and Trade Chamber of Commerce (CAETC), supported by Changsha County government, have joined hands to foster a dynamic collaboration aimed at catalysing investments that will promote mutual economic growth and prosperity for both the Kenyan and Chinese economies.The agreement is poised to strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations, opening doors for various investment opportunities. Johanna Chen, Executive President of Changsha Chamber of Commerce, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership, saying that collaboration between Tatu City and the China-Africa Economic and Trade Chamber of Commerce marks a significant milestone in enhancing the connections between the two nations. We are excited about the potential to drive economic growth through joint investments here at Tatu City SEZ.” Solomon Mahinda, Executive Vice President of Tatu City, said: “We have had discussions with the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (Comesa) and the East Africa Community (EAC) Secretariat to establish how trade policies can be refined to promote investments and market access in Africa. – Mathew Ndung’u &%.LQODUJHFDVKUHSRUWLQJ GLOHPPDRYHUZHDNVKLOOLQJ by Herald Aloo @heraldaloo Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) is in a dilemma on whether the threshold for reporting large cash transactions should be valued in dollar or Kenyan shilling, highlighting policy difficulties facing the country as the local currency weakens. The Proceeds of Crime and Antimoney Laundering Regulation 2013 requires banks to ask clients to explain the source of funds and intended use and report to the Financial Reporting Centre (FRC) if the $10,000 transaction is deemed suspicious as part of attempts to combat terrorism financing. When the threshold was set at $10,000 back in January 2016, the amount translated to about Sh1 million since the shilling was exchanging at about Sh100 against the greenback. The shilling has now devalued by a whopping 44 per cent over those seven years to exchange at Sh144 per dollar, meaning the equivalent threshold for reporting should now be roughly Sh1.44 million. However, some commercial banks have not made requisite adjustments to match the currency fluctuations, forcing customers to make disclosures on transactions of Sh1 million ($6,944.4), which is currently below the $10,000 legal threshold. When CBK Governor Kamau Thugge was asked about the matter by the National Assembly’s Finance and National Planning Committee, he said, “allow us to look on that issue and revert.” Meanwhile, other banks are exploiting the policy gap by setting the limit based on the currency a customer is using. ILLICIT FLOWS The Proceeds of Crime and Antimoney Laundering Regulation 2013 requires banks to ask clients to explain the source of funds and intended use. The lenders are then required to report to the Financial Reporting Centre (FRC) if the $10,000 transaction is deemed suspicious as part of attempts to combat terrorism financing. This has left a room where those with dollar-denominated accounts can transact more without being flagged compared to those operating in local currency. President William Ruto’s cabinet last month approved amendments to the regulation through the draft Anti-Money Laundering and Combating of Terrorism Financing Laws (Amendment) Bill (AML/CFT), 2023 which increased the threshold by 50 per cent to $15,000 (Sh2.16 million). The Financial Reporting Centre is pushing for watertight anti-money laundering regulations in line with Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global money laundering and terrorist financing watchdog. Maximum threshold “Under FATF, we have actually gone to the maximum threshold. We cannot go beyond the $15,000 unless we want to break the international standards,” Thugge said while also calling for the imposition of fines to further tighten the draft regulation once adopted. Commercial Banks have, however, opposed the plan to increase the limit, citing significant risk relating to illicit money flow and given Kenya’s geopolitical location in the Horn of Africa. “Due to the increase in the volatility of the exchange rate as well as runaway inflation rates being experienced, the threshold of $10,000 should be retained and applied in a risk-based approach,” Kenya Bankers Association (KBA) noted in a presentation to the committee. Attempt to raise the threshold flopped in 2021 under the Jubilee government as CBK, under the then Governor Patrick Njoroge, expressed concerns that the decision would expose Kenya to economic sanction. Kenya is under pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to seal the existing gaps in its antimoney laundering rules, failure to which the country can be flagged as “high-risk” to terrorism and relateproliferation financing. The multilateral lender, which has been shaping most of Kenya’s policies due to existing loan agreements, is concerned that the current AML/ CFT Bill does not adequately address the identified risks, hence the need to improve effectiveness and supervision. Kenya has up to next month to finalise regulations or risk being grey-listed which could taint the country’s image in terms of attracting more investment inflows. The grey list now has 26 jurisdictions like South Africa, Nigeria, Mali, Mozambique, Senegal Tanzania, and Uganda. When threshold was set at $10,000 in 2016, the amount translated to about Sh1 million but the currency has now devalued by 44pc Financial Reporting Centre is pushing for watertight anti-money laundering regulations in line with Financial Action Taskforce. FILE Tatu City inks deal to drive Kenya-China investments  K Africa Digital Media Institute (ADMI) has announced it will partner with African digital professionals to impart them with Green Skills for sustainable impact. The Head of Partnerships Mukui Mbindyo (pictured), highlighted the institute’s dedication to nurturing a generation of digital professionals who are equipped to tackle advocacy issues. Leveraging the potential of digital media, innovative technologies, and cooperative alliances, she explained the initiative strives to inspire the youth to channel their efforts towards positive and lasting transformation. “At ADMI, we believe that knowledge empowers action. Our goal is to provide students with the tools they need to make informed decisions and create meaningful change,” said Mbindyo. “We recognise the importance of skills like artificial intelligence, data analysis, and machine learning in comprehending complex issues like climate change. Equally vital are creativity, innovation, and critical thinking, which underpin sustainable practices.” Mbindyo said various communication channels, including podcasts, webinars, and interactive immersive technologies, will be employed to tackle pressing environmental challenges. “This multifaceted approach aims to engage and educate audiences using diverse platforms that cater to different learning styles and preferences,” she added. – Benard Sigei ADMI to empower digital experts with Green Skills Thursday, August 24, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY BUSINESS HUB 17

18 BUSINESS HUB PEOPLE DAILY / Thursday, August 24, 2023 by Xinhua A week after Moody’s slashed the credit ratings of 10 small and mediumsized American banks and indicated the possibility of downgrading the credit ratings of some large U.S. banks, the U.S. banking sector faced another challenge. On Tuesday following Moody’s, another international rating agency, Fitch Ratings, warned that it might downgrade the ratings of dozens of U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase. While concerns are mounting over the banking system of the economic superpower, the turmoil is, unfortunately, not confined to banking, nor is it limited to the United States. Chris Wolfe, an analyst at Fitch, said in an interview with the Consumer News and Business Channel (CNBC) that the U.S. banking industry has approached “another source of turbulence.” Earlier this month, Fitch downgraded the United States’ credit rating from AAA to AA+, making it another international credit rating agency to raise questions about the governance and fiscal management capabilities of the U.S. government since Standard & Poor’s downgrade of the U.S. credit rating in 2011. International ratings “Living off borrowed time” depicts the reality of U.S. fiscal policy. Over the past year, the substantial interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve have triggered not only domestic banking turbulence but also a tugof-war in Congress regarding the debt ceiling issue. The impact of this goes way beyond America’s own land. Hidetoshi Tashiro, the chief economist of Japan’s Infinity LLC., told Xinhua that as long as America borrows in dollars from foreign countries, it can directly repay foreign debts by printing a large number of dollars, diluting the burden of those debts. “Non-market policies and practices ... that distort global competition, trade, and investment” are exactly what the United States has been proactively resorting to, Tashiro said. SUMMARY The industry outlook remains clouded by several interconnected risks that include persistent inflationary pressures, effects of tighter monetary policy conditions on credit flows and by extension economic activity, the tax laws in the Finance Act 2023.
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XPSMEXJEF by Noel Wandera  @NoelWanderah  Banking sector assets in Kenya grew by Sh500 billion despite tough economic times and electioneering shocks experienced in 2022 giving shareholders a reason to smile. According to the State of the Banking Industry Report (SBIR) report by the Kenya Bankers Association (KBA), total assets grew by 8.2 per cent to Sh6.5 trillion in 2022 from Sh6 trillion in 2021 – with the overall private sector credit sustaining a double-digit growth with moderation – partly reflecting the impact of Kenya’s monetary policy tightening stance. Credit expanded by 12.5 per cent in the 12 months to December 2022 with the stock of credit growing to Sh3.4 billion as private sector activities got invigorated. Resilient economy KBA Chief Executive Officer Habil Olaka said despite shocks experienced in 2022, the economy remained resilient to expand by 4.8 per cent, which is above the sub-Saharan Africa average of 3.9 per cent. “The industry registered impressive growth, particularly for the deposit-taking microfinance banks, while their asset quality concerns posed challenges, there were notable operational efficiency gains that enabled profitability growth in the market segment,’’ Olaka said. The survey indicates that growth in bank lending was achieved without any detrimental impact on asset quality as the non-performing loan ratio declined to 13.7 per cent in 2022 from 14.1 per cent in 2021, reflecting an improvement in the banking sector’s efforts to generate good quality loan books. “As asset quality improved, the industry continued to increase its loan loss provisions to cover expected credit losses. Loan loss provisions rose by 16.2 per cent to Sh68.8 billion in 2022 compared to Sh59.2 billion in 2021,’’ the report indicates. The banking sector’s liability profile is driven by domestic deposits with deposits accounting for 87.3 per cent of total liabilities in 2022, a slight decline in the proportion from 89.9 per cent in 2021. The survey also indicates that the industry on average maintained adequate capital buffers above the minimum statutory regulatory requirements. In 2022, the ratio of total capital to risk-weighted assets lowered slightly to 19 per cent from 19.5 per cent in 2021 against a statutory regulatory minimum of 14.5 per cent. Total operating income in 2022 sustained its growth trajectory, rising by 17.7 percent to Sh740.4 billion from Sh628.5 billion in 2021, while the operating costs also rose, driven by interest expenses and general administrative costs. Borrowed funds According to the report, total operating costs rose by 13.4 per cent to Sh571.9 billion in 2022 driven by a rise in interest expenses on borrowed funds, deposits, and placements which more-than doubled in the year, rising by 118.3 per cent and a 38.3 per cent increase in the general administrative costs. Banks’ aggregate cost-toincome, a proxy of efficiency, improved with costs absorbing 56.7 per cent of the incomes in 2022 compared to 58.4 per cent in 2021. The average banking sector’s average funding costs rose marginally to 3.1 percent in 2022 from 2.9 per cent, a trend reflected across all bank categories, driven by tightening monetary conditions in the economy. In terms of profitability, the total pre-tax profits rose by 23 per cent to Sh241.52 billion in 2022 from Sh196.44 billion in 2021. The assets of deposittaking microfinance banks continued to moderate, having contracted by 4.8 percent to Sh70.4 billion in 2022 from Sh74 billion in 2021. +RZ86FDWDO\VHGJOREDOHFRQRPLFWXUEXOHQFH %DQNV·DVVHWV XSE\6KE DPLGWXUPRLO Pressure from high inflation, tighter monetary policy conditions and the Finance Act abound MARKET WATCH NAIROBI SECURITIES EXCHANGE
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505"- HIGH LOW AGRICULTURAL PRICES SHARES NSE ALL SHARE INDEX: DOWN 0.86 points to close at 100.86 NSE 20-SHARE INDEX: DOWN 1.71 points to close at 1531.23 NSE 25-SHARE INDEX: DOWN 14.25 points to close at 2577.08 14.50 10.00 Eaagands Ltd Ord 1.25 14.00 450.00 240.00 Kakuzi Plc Ord.5.00 403.50 239.00 81.00 Kapchorva Tea Kenya Plc Ord Ord 5.00 225.75 237.75 900 510.00 320.00 The Limuru Two Ca. Plc Ord 20.00 430.00 31.40 17.90 Sasini Plc Ord 1.00 26.20 26.00 11,500 275.00 120.00 Williamson Two Kenya Plc Ord 5.00 245.25 251.50 3,700 AUTOMOBILES & ACCESSORIES 49.75 24.30 Car & General (K) Ltd Ord 5.00 41.50 BANKING 13.00 9.02 ABSA Bank Kenya Plc Ord 0.50 11.80 11.75 104,900 36.95 26.50 BK Group Plc Ord 0.80 33.00 57.00 43.75 Diamond Trust Bonk Kenya Ltd Ord 4.00 49.00 49.00 47,100 53.50 35,00 Equity Group Holdings Plc Ord 0,50 39.45 39.15 15,900 5.20 2.80 HP Group Plc Ord 5.00 4.96 5.00 4,700 21.50 15.80 UM Group Plc Ord 1.00 18.15 18.25 7,900 4400 26.55 KCB Group Plc Ord 1,00 26.90 26.95 228,000 41.00 23.30 NCBA Group Plc Ord 5.00 36.35 38.55 11,700 132.00 90.00 Stanbic Holdings Plc ard.5.00 11425 114.00 8,100 172.50 121.00 Standard Chartered Bank Kenya Ltd Ord 5.00 160.00 159.00 9,000 14.00 10.30 The Cooperative Bank of Kenya Ltd Ord 1.00 11.50 11.50 308,700 COMMERCIAL AND SERVICES 0.45 0,45 Deacons (East Af rico) Plc Ord 2.50 0.45 1.88 0.59 Eveready East Af rico Ltd Ord.I.00 1.31 1.24 27,300 5.40 2.70 Express Kenya Plc Ord 5.00.. 4.16 4.66 4.66 Homeboyz Entertainment Plc 0.50 4.66 3.83 3.83 Kenya Airways Ltd Ord 1.00 3.83 4.30 2.00 Longhorn Publishers Plc Ord 1.00 2.69 2.65 4,600 5.12 2.50 Nairobi Business Ventures Plc Ord. 0.50 2.99 2.90 9,200 23.00 14.00 Nation Media Group Plc Ord. 2.50 20.00 20.00 56,100 4.38 LBO Sameer Africa Plc Ord 5.00 2.13 14.75 8.14 Standard Group Plc Ord 5.00 8.52 8.34 500 18.00 10.85 TPS Eastern Africa Ltd Ord 1.00 11.90 11.05 4,300 0.29 0.16 Uchumi Supermarket Plc Ord 5.00 am 0.19 18,100 423 2.60 WPP Scangrroup Plc Ord 1.00 2.75 2.70 1,300 CONSTRUCTION & ALLIED 5.55 5.55 ARM Cement Plc Ord 1.00 5.55 39.50 22,40 Bamburi Cement Plc Ord 5,00 26.00 25.00 937,200 46.00 31.75 Crown Paints Kenya Plc Ord 5.00 39.75 39.75 400 1.32 0.72 E.A.Cables Ltd Ord 0.50 0.89 0.94 3,000 8.80 5.38 E.A.Portland Cement Co. Ltd Ord 5.00 6.22 6.80 2,400 ENERGY & PETROLEUM 3.88 2.00 KenGen Co. Plc Ord. 2.50 2.29 2.36 80,300 2.11 1.30 Kenya Power & Lighting Co Plc Ord 2.50 1.45 1.45 209,000 4.20 4.10 Kenya Power & Lighting Plc 47. Pref 20.00 4.11 6.00 6.00 Kenya Power & Lighting Plc 7% Pref 20.00 6.00 26.40 17.30 TotalEnergies Marketing Kenya Plc Ord 5.00 19.90 18.10 100 18.00 6.30 Umeme Ltd Ord 0.50 13.85 13.95 4,100 INSURANCE 7.50 4.01 Britam Holdings Plc Ord 0.10 5.00 4.69 1,037,700 2.30 1.60 CIC Insurance Group Ltd Ord.1.00 1.96 2.05 17,100 273.00 142,00 Jubilee Holdings Ltd Ord 5.00 17000 2.30 1.50 Kenya Re Insurance Corporation Ltd Ord 2.50 1.84 1.85 173,800 7.48 3.60 Liberty Kenya Holdings Ltd Ord. 1.00 3.85 3.89 600 15.00 7.20 Sanlam Kenya Plc Ord 5.00 8.00 7.40 100 INVESTMENT 12.80 7.60 Centum Investment Co Plc Ord 0.50 8.86 8.98 119,100 0.41 0.27 Hame Afrika Ltd Ord 1.00 0.33 0.31 26,600 1500.00 1,500.00 Kurwitu Ventures Ltd Ord 100.00 1,500.00 5.60 1.91 Olympia Capital Holdings Ltd Ord 5.00 327 3.21 6,800 1.35 0,50 Trans-Century Plc Ord 0.50 0.51 0.51 25,600 INVESTMENT SERVICES 8.50 5,50 Nairobi Securities Exchange Plc Ord 4.00 6.12 6.06 8,900 MANUFACTURING & ALLIED 85.00 65.00 B.O.C Kenya Plc Ord 5.00 73.00 490.00 400.00 British American Tobacco Kenya Plc Ord 10.00 42225 423.75 1,000 17.00 10.30 Carbocid Investments Plc Ord 1.00 15.70 16.00 4,100 190.00 110.00 East African Breweries Plc Ord 2.00 126.00 125.25 2,600 1.54 0.90 Flame Tree Group Holdings Ltd Ord 0.825.m. 1.30 1.30 100 15.00 10.40 Kenya Orchards Ltd Ord 5.00.e. 16.45 0.27 0.27 Mumias Sugar Co. Ltd Ord 2.00 0.27 35.00 15.00 Unga Group Ltd Ord 5.00 18.20 16.75 100 TELECOMMUNICATION 34.00 12.70 Safaricom Plc Ord 0.05 15.55 15.90 3,907,600 REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST 7.30 5.00 ILAM FAHARI I-REIT Ord.20.00 6.08 6.06 146,900 20.00 20.00 LAPTRUSTIMARA I-REIT Ord.20.00 20.00 EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS 2560.00 1880.00 ABSA New Gold ETF 2500i 2525.00 CBK KEY RATES CURRENCY MEAN BUY SELL US DOLLAR 144.5559 144.4559 144.6559 SW KRONER 13.2508 13.2391 13.2625 STG POUND 184.3221 184.1674 184.4769 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 106.5850 106.5073 106.6626 SAUDI RIYAL 38.5369 38.5082 38.5656 SA RAND 7.7079 7.7003 7.7156 S FRANC 164.3521 164.2291 164.4751 NOR KRONER 13.6387 13.6242 13.6532 KES / USHS 25.7686 25.7162 25.8210 KES / TSHS 17.2598 17.2133 17.3063 KES / RWF 8.2006 8.1361 8.2651 KES / BIF 19.6168 19.4476 19.7860 JPY (100) 99.2386 99.1597 99.3175 IND RUPEE 1.7427 1.7414 1.7440 HONGKONG DOLLAR 18.4460 18.4333 18.4588 EURO 157.1619 157.0310 157.2929 DAN KRONER 21.0672 21.0519 21.0826 CHINESE YUAN 19.8472 19.8322 19.8621 CAN $ 106.7818 106.7040 106.8596 AUSTRALIAN $ 93.0723 93.0007 93.1439 AE DIRHAM 39.3553 39.3227 39.3879 Central Bank Rate 10.50% 09/08/2023 Inter-Bank Rate 11.72% 22/08/2023 CBK Discount Window 14.50% 10/08/2023 91-Day T-Bill 13.475% 21/08/2023 REPO 9.72% 24/07/2023 Inflation Rate 7.28% July,2023 Lending Rate 13.31% June,2023 Savings Rate 3.48% June,2023 Deposit Rate 7.82% June,2023 KBRR 8.9% 27/07/2016 KEY CBK INDICATIVE EXCHANGE RATES 23/8/2023

Wagner’s Prigozhin killed in plane crash US imposes new China visa curbs Lula defends Brazil close ties with Africa Ten people have been killed in a private jet crash north of Moscow - with the Russian Civil Aviation Authority saying Yevgeny Prigozhin was on the passenger list. Seven passengers and three crew were on board the Embraer aircraft, which was en route from Moscow to St Petersburg, TASS news agency reported. “An investigation has been launched into the Embraer plane crash that occurred tonight in the Tver region. According to the passenger list, among them is the name and surname of Yevgeny Prigozhin,” Rosaviatsia said. Unconfirmed media reports suggest the business jet belonged to Prigozhin. Prigozhin led a short-lived mutiny against Russia’s top military brass in June, and was described at the time by Vladimir Putin as a “traitor”. - BBC The United States has announced new visa restrictions against Chinese officials suspected of involvement in the alleged “forced assimilation” of more than 1 million children in state-run boarding schools in Tibet. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken did not name the individuals involved but urged Beijing to end its “coercive” policies in the culturally-distinct far western region. “These coercive policies seek to eliminate Tibet’s distinct linguistic, cultural and religious traditions among younger generations of Tibetans,” Blinken said in a statement.“We urge PRC authorities to end the coercion of Tibetan children into government-run boarding schools,” the statement said. - AFP Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva defended closer ties with African countries during his speech at the Brics Business Forum on Tuesday in Johannesburg. The Brics group is composed of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa; the world’s largest emerging economies. The bloc already is home to 40% of the world’s population and responsible for more than 30% of global economic output, and more than 20 nations have applied to join, according to South African officials, including Saudi Arabia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates. “Brazil is back on the continent it should never have left. Africa offers vast opportunities and enormous potential for growth,” said the Brazilian President. - Africanews
 Nairobi, Wednesday The East African Community (EAC) on Tuesday began talks in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, to admit Somalia into the regional economic bloc. Peter Mathuki, the secretary general of the intergovernmental organization, told journalists that the talks will be the final stage before Somalia can join the EAC. “We will deliver the report of the negotiations to the council of ministers as well as the summit of the heads of states of the EAC before the end of the year,” he said.The EAC member states include Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), and Uganda. On January 25, the EAC sent a team of technical experts to Somalia to verify and assess the preparedness of Somalia to join the regional bloc as the eighth member. Mohamud Abdirahman Sheikh Farah, Somali minister of Planning, Investment and Economic Development, said that his country is keen to join the EAC because it already enjoys close socioeconomic ties with all members of the trading bloc. “We have also received a positive reception from the heads of state of all the EAC members,” Farah said. Rebecca Miano, cabinet secretary in Kenya’s Ministry for EAC, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands, and Regional Development, said that the EAC verification team has confirmed Somalia meets the basic requirements of the EAC Treaty for admission of foreign countries into the economic bloc. - Xinhua 5HJLRQDOERG\($&EHJLQVWDONVRQ6RPDOLDPHPEHUVKLS Xi honoured in Pretoria Chinese President Xi Jinping receives the Order of South Africa, the highest decoration and the highest honour that South Africa awards to an important and friendly head of state, from South African President Cyril Ramaphosa after their talks in Pretoria, South Africa, August 22. Xi, who is paying a state visit to South Africa, held talks with Ramaphosa on Tuesday. XINHUA Harare, Wednesday Polls opened on Wednesday for Zimbabweans to vote in the country’s general election. The presidential and parliamentary elections taking place are crucial to determining the future of a southern African nation endowed with vast mineral resources and rich agricultural land. The opposition, traditionally stronger in urban areas, is hoping to ride a wave of discontent at the southern African country’s economic troubles, amid high inflation, and unemployment. “We are tired of this. We are (living from) hand to mouth,” said Paddington, 27, a fruit vendor, as he sat on a rusty blue truck with a flat tyre and a load full of oranges at the bustling market of Mbare, Harare’s oldest township. Paddington is amongst the growing voices of anger and frustration in Zimbabwe who would be hoping things change for the better particularly with a new president. But will this be enough to displace EmOpposition leader for the Citizens Coalition for Change Nelson Chamisa (centre) casts his ballot at a polling station in Harare, yesterday. COURTESY 3ROOVRSHQLQFUXFLDO=LPEDEZH SUHVLGHQWLDODQGFLYLFHOHFWLRQV Only 18 out of 77 polling stations opened on time in the capital Harare, which was blamed on printing delays merson Mnangagwa from winning a second five year term? At dawn, (Wednesday morning) many gathered at the polling stations in Mbare, Harare, the capital checking for their names on the register and forming lines. “It is my right to vote so it’s important for me to vote.” one Daina said at her polling unit. Farai Ndonga, a young vendor expressed optimism about the vote. “So far so good, to cast the vote is very important. The constitution says that the one we choose to be our candidate can develop our site we have in our constituency and our area so it’s very important to be choosing a candidate, for MP, councillor or whatever. For President is far much better because he can develop our country.” Another vendor Gifton Boff, said it was important for the government to create a business friendly environment in the country. “They must support us in our business, because I’m a vendor, so we need something good” Boff said. President Emmerson Mnangagwa, 80, who came to power after a coup that deposed late ruler Robert Mugabe in 2017 and is seeking re-election, has promised growth and new infrastructure. He sounds confident of victory. “I’m going for my second term, it’s my last term,” he told state media on the eve of the polls. Asked whether the president was the right person to turn things around, Paddington, the orange seller, who preferred not to give his full name, broke into a nervous laughter. “He’s not the right guy.” Pointing to a Mnangagwa electoral poster on the front door of his truck, he said, “That’s to be safe and make money,” hinting at fears of retaliation from authorities for those who openly speak against the government. - Agencies HARARE DECIDES Polls opened on Wednesday for Zimbabweans to vote in the country’s general election. The presidential and parliamentary elections taking place are crucial to determining the future 19 WORLD NEWS FOR MORE NEWS VISIT: www.pd.co.ke / www.epaper. pd.co.ke Thursday, August 24, 2023

20 PEOPLE DAILY / Thursday, August 24, 2023 BEAUTY IS HERE by Alice Mburu Beauty brand L’Oreìal Paris has unveiled South African actress Thuso Mbedu as the new brand ambassador and spokesperson for Sub-Saharan Africa. The brand believes that Mbedu’s passion for beauty and ability to connect with audiences will play a pivotal role in enhancing its relationship with its customers. “Her exceptional talent, timeless beauty, and commitment to empowering others align perfectly with our mission. We look forward to embarking on this exciting journey together to inspire individuals to embrace their uniqueness and celebrate their inner beauty,” said L’Oreìal SubSaharan Africa President Burkhard Pieroth. He added that the partnership would revolutionise beauty standards and inspire a wave of self-worth and confi dence across the continent. PD/ALICE MBURU Host Kui Kabala. Host Kui Kabala. Host Kui Kabala. Clique & Clicks Get 4QPUUFE L’Oreal Paris Kenya brand advocacy team Foi Wambui, Sadia Said and Anita Nderu. L’Oreal Paris SSA brand ambassador Thuso Mbedu with actress Natasha Thahane. by Mwangi Alberto Kenyans in love with Chinese products now have a reason to smile after China recently launched its traditional popular drink Fenjiu Liquor in Nairobi. The famous Chinese wine, brewed from steamed rice for over nine months and left to mature for two years, is now available at Chinatown Supermarket along Ngong Road in Nairobi. It is the first time that the crystal-clear drink with a sweet soft taste and an alluring aroma is making inroads to Africa. “It’s a very healthy drink, we are confident that Kenyans will like it. We also believe the pricing is reasonable, but we are still studying the local market to make appropriate adjustments,” said Chinatown Supermarket director Mei Hong. She believes the introduction of the drink to the Kenyan market will also help to cement the already existing 60-year-old diplomatic relationship between China and Kenya. Fenjiu originates from Shanxi Province in China where it is made from the natural water of wells located at the Apricot Blossom Village. PD/MWANGI ALBERTO A famous toast of China L’Oreal Kenya team with Miss Universe 2019, Zozibini Tunzi (fourth left) celebrate during the unveiling event. Kenya-China Alumni Association chairman Henry Rotich makes his remarks. Chinatown Supermarket director Mei Hong (fourth right) leads delegates into a toast. Anita Nderu, Sadia Said, Andile Ncube and Foi Wambui. Chinese models Ha Ha (front) and Ni Ni carry bottles of the newly launched drink. L’Oreal Kenya marketing manager Tracy Ofwona, L’Oreal SSA brand ambassador Thuso Mbedu and L’Oreal Paris brand manager Jessie Wamae. Chinese models display the newly imported Fenjiu wine.

Thursday, August 24, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY TOP SHELF FACTS 21 Ten... Food pairings that boost nutrient absorption Many things can affect how efficiently your body absorbs nutrients. An imbalanced gut microbiome, for example, will impact which nutrients get absorbed and which ones do not. Stress, poor sleep, age and even your weight also often undermine absorption levels. So, how can we ensure we get as many nutrients out of what we eat as possible? When certain meals are paired up, their nutrients and plant chemicals interact to enhance each other and provide more nutrition bang, writes Betty Muindi 1. Turmeric and black pepper Turmeric is an antioxidant known for its ability to reduce pain, arthritis, and cleanse the blood. But it works even better when paired with black pepper. Studies show that black pepper helps to make the antioxidants in turmeric more bioavailable, meaning your body can absorb and use more of those diseasefighting compounds. Beans and 4. rice Beans and rice is a staple meal that has stood the test of time for many cultures. But there’s more to this simple dish than simplicity and affordability alone. Beans or chickpeas are two complementary proteins, meaning they offer a complete protein source when eaten together. Beans are also rich in fibre, which helps to balance the highcarbohydrate levels in rice. By eating rice and beans together, you’ll avoid a blood sugar spike and get a healthy plant-based protein fix. Healthy fats and Vitamins A, 5. D, E, K Vitamins A, D, E, and K are all fatsoluble vitamins, meaning they need the presence of fat to be absorbed by the body. You can increase your absorption of these vitamins by pairing foods rich in fat-soluble vitamins with healthy oils. Green vegetables are high in vitamins A and K. Vitamins A is often found in orange and yellow veggies, such as carrots. Nuts are rich in vitamin E. When you eat these colourful veggies, pair them with a healthy salad dressing made from olive oil or walnut oil, add a handful of healthy seeds, or top with avocado to get the most out of every vegetable. Spinach and strawberries 6. Spinach is a rich source of iron, but iron needs vitamin C to be properly absorbed. Foods, such as strawberries, bell peppers, and citrus fruits are high in vitamin C and pair perfectly with spinach. This salad helps you get the most out of both nutrients. Green tea and lemon Green tea is one of the world’s most famous health foods. It’s touted for its high antioxidant levels and anti-aging benefits. Adding a squeeze of lemon, which is high in vitamin C to your green tea increases the bioavailability of the healing compounds in your cup. 7. Grain, greens and beans Animal protein sources, such as meat, fish, or eggs, are complete proteins as is. But plant-based proteins are incomplete. They lack all the amino acids the body needs to rebuild itself. But, we can access all these amino acids simply by blending two different plant-based protein sources. A good rule to follow is to mix a grain, a green, and a bean. Usually, this combination will create a complete, nutritious, plant-based protein. 8. Broccoli and 9.garlic That garlicky stir fry is more than just good for your immunity - it could also be good for your bones! Mix foods, such as broccoli that are rich in calcium, such as sukuma wiki and cabbage with foods that are rich in inulin, such as garlic, onions and leeks. When calcium and inulin come together, it helps to improve calcium absorption and strengthen the bones. Probiotics and everything 10. One of the best ways to improve your overall nutrient absorption is by starting from the root—your gut. Your gut bacteria and enzymes are responsible for breaking down food and absorbing as many nutrients as possible. If the gut bacteria is imbalanced or weakened, your nutrient absorption will decline. Probiotics are one of the best ways to boost the health of your gut bacteria to improve your overall nutrient absorption. Including natural yoghurt or kombucha in your everyday diet is a great way to start repopulating your gut with the healthy bacteria you need. For even better gut health, consider taking a high-quality probiotic supplement. Tomatoes and olive oil Research shows that pairing tomatoes with olive oil is the best way to enjoy the benefits of both. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can protect against diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. Olive oil has been shown to increase the absorption of lycopene from tomatoes. 2. 3. Salmon and leafy greens Along with being quick to prepare and packed with antioxidants, this simple combination offers an excellent source of two key nutrients that support bone health— vitamin D and calcium. Salmon offers a rich source of vitamin D, while the leafy greens are rich in calcium. You’ll often see calcium-rich products, such as milk fortified with vitamin D. This is because vitamin D causes the reactions that allow calcium to be absorbed by the body.

only country offering safaris. Rwanda, Uganda and others are all slowly growing their own with Rwanda reintroducing lions and many other animals in their parks,” he explains. Locals to feel excluded Others believe that increasing the rates will reverse gains made to encourage domestic tourists to visit parks. “The decision to raise fees might lead to a negative perception among locals, as they may feel excluded from enjoying their own natural treasures. This can result in reduced domestic tourism, affecting local businesses and employment opportunities,” notes Stellamaris Miriti of Stejo Tours and Travels Limited. Stella adds that the issue of inadequate amenities in the parks should also be addressed before KWS decides to increase the rates. “If the amenities are subpar compared to neighbouring countries, international guests may continue to choose those alternatives, further hurting the tourism industry. It’s crucial for the government and relevant authorities to prioritise improving park infrastructure and facilities, ensuring that the overall experience is competitive with neighbouring countries. Balancing the need for increased revenue with maintaining affordability for locals and providing appealing amenities for visitors is essential,” she adds. Peak and green season According to the 2022 Annual Sector Tourism Performance Report, the number of Kenyans visiting parks by Harriet James @harriet86jim T he recent proposal by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) to increase park entry fees has been received with mixed reactions from park lovers and stakeholders in the tourism industry. The proposal meant that tourists will pay more than tripple the usual amounts paid to visit national parks in the country, starting from January 2024 to December 2025. During a recent validation forum held recently at the Nairobi National Park where tourism and conservation stakeholder shared insightful views on the proposed fees, KWS Director General, Erustus Kanga emphasised that the fees plays a vital role in sustaining Kenya’s wildlife resources. “The new fees is in alignment with the government’s Bottom Up Economic Transformation Agenda, as KWS strives to intertwine its objectives with Kenya’s broader developmental aspirations,” he said. While undertaking their work, he said KWS faces a lot of challenges, including climate change, habitat degradation and loss, forest depletion, tourism market volatility, human wildlife conflict brought on by population growth and changing land use habits of communities that co-exist with wildlife, as well as wildlife crime. Therefore, finances are required to resolve all these challenges and their main source of revenue is tourism. However, following public outcry on the new changes, he noted that the rates would be reviewed downwards as the proposals await to go through parliament before gazettement. Some stakeholders recommend an increase of marine park fees and transport to reduce footprints in the park, and others support gradual increase. Mohammed Hersi, the Chairman Diani Hospitality Owners Association, recommends that KWS explores other ways of raising funds for conservation to raise funds instead of relying in tourism alone as the source of revenue. “Carbon credit is one way. We also have many corporates around the world who are willing to support conservation as long as transparency is guaranteed. We must also not undermine Tembea Kenya’s success that has grown in leaps and bounds since 2010. The depreciation of the shilling has given by default a 35 per cent park fees hike hence we must address these changes in a holistic manner. While Kenya is magical in its own right, we must always remember that we are not the 22 PEOPLE DAILY / Thursday, August 24, 2023 Travel Wise Get TFU go! increased with the Nairobi Animal Orphanage recording the highest number of visitors at 348,565, a 79 per cent growth from the previous year and overtaking Nairobi National Park, which had 280,412 visitors. Other parks that had high number of visitors included Kisumu Impala Sanctuary with 235,041 visitors and Lake Nakuru National Park with185,051 visitors overtaking Amboseli Park, which recorded155,691 visits compared to the previous year. “We are happy that both Masai Mara National Reserve and KWS are now giving us an opportunity for both peak and green (low) season, which is something we have lobbied as the tourism industry for a long time. While we are not against park fees increase, doubling park fees for the Mara from US$100 (Sh14,475) to US$200 (Sh28,940) will certainly affect visitor numbers. KWS planned raise for Nairobi National Park, Lake Nakuru and Amboseli parks to USD$100 is equally on the higher side. Even Tsavo is meant to increase to US$80 (Sh11,576) from US$52 (Sh7,524),” says Hersi. Hersi adds that the triple hikes for Kenyans and the domestic market will equally shock the system and undermine the Tembea Kenya campaign that has taken the country a long time to build. “Looking at competing safari destinations, highest will be Tanzania who are in the US$100 (Sh14,475) a day mark while South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia all hover between US$20 (Sh2,894) to US$30 (Sh4,341) a day. If it is the wildebeest migration, please keep in mind that we share that experience with Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, hence we should be very careful how and when we choose to hike our rates,” he continues. Disadvantaged local operators Policymakers have justified the increase of the park fees by comparing the tourism sector with Rwanda’s Gorilla permits that currently stand at US$1,500 (Sh216,900). At one point, Rwanda charged US$350 (Sh50,610), then there was an increase to US$750 (Sh108,450) before finally doubling it to Sh216,900. “What these policy makers won’t tell you is that by law, only eight tourists can visit each habituated gorilla family per day, meaning that only 152 permits are available daily in Uganda and 96 in Rwanda. For a long time, Rwanda capped the permits at 56. Availability is limited. If anything, I can equate the gorilla permits to limited edition of a designer bespoke item since supply is limited and cannot be stretched,” he says. “If we go ahead and double our park fees or even give 50 per cent hike, it means that as operators in Kenya, we will be disadvantaged,” continues Hersi. He adds:“Kenya is a midscale destination. We are not a mass market and we don’t want to be a mass market destination neither are we a niche destination. We do attract a small bracket of high-end visitors, but trust me, those numbers are not enough to sustain our tourism industry. The worst hit by the increased rates will be lodges and camps located in the Mara and KWS parks since numbers will reduce and even those who make it, will reduce the number of nights spent at those establishments. Parks, such as Tsavo West and East, Lake Nakuru, Amboseli, will be affected as guests will find it too high to pay for the hotel, as well as park rates. Despite the fact that the Mara is not under the KWS jurisdiction, the recent changes when it comes to the timings in the park during the high season have also affected stakeholders greatly. “At US$200 a night between July and December means a couple will be expected to pay US$400 (Sh57,900) a day. Also the new rule of 12 hours is not helping matters since all competing destination offer the traditional 24 hours. It simply means that visitors to Mara will be paying to access the park compared to what they will be paying to stay at some of the camps and lodges,” continues Hersi. “The increase is wrongly timed and should have been gradually done, because we are from the pandemic season where things were tough. They have done this without consultation and the high rates will discourage tourism and our businesses will Proposed park entry fees to dent tourist numbers Industry stakeholders say plan to raise access fees in our most iconic national reserves will have a dramatic impact on visitation and further erode tourism gains, instead, they are calling for gradual increase, as well as alternative revenue avenues Dr Erastus Kanga Mohammed Hersi Tourists enjoy views of lions at Nairobi National Park. PD/ HARRIET JAMES 567"
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BGGFDUFE by KNA @PeopleDailyKE Kisumu County has announced plans to run a conservation road race and family fun run dubbed Kisumu My Pride City Run on September 24 as a way to promote the city’s sports, culture, and tourism sectors. The event will feature during this year’s Kisumu Tourism Week celebrated alongside the United Nations World Tourism Day BRIEFLY Lake-

by Faith Kyoumukama @martkinel L ocated on the second floor of the renowned Westgate Mall, sits an eatery that has garnered attention not only for its delectable offerings, but also for its visually appealing presentation— modern and elegant dining setting. Excited by the buzz around the place, a group of us, ardent food enthusiasts, reserved a table for a dinner experience, arriving promptly at 8:30pm. It’s worth noting that the kitchen’s doors close at 9pm, underscoring the importance of timeliness. The restaurant presents itself as a Modern Asian Izakaya, capturing the essence of a Japanese culinary concept. The term “Izakaya” is formed by combining three kanji characters, embodying a space for relaxation, camaraderie, and drinks. While similar in atmosphere to British or Irish pubs, Spanish tapas bars, or American taverns, it’s true essence delves deeper. Stepping into the Meso, the ambiance undergoes a transformation catering to diverse preferences. Dimmer lighting sets the stage for an intimate dinner experience, appealing to those who relish a cozy atmosphere. Conversely, for food enthusiasts who cherish capturing their culinary journey through photographs, the presence of natural light becomes indispensable, making daytime visits a preferred choice.Its thematic design is centred around a harmonious palette of green, brown, and nude shades, evident in its furnishings and decor elements. Golden perfection Embarking on our gastronomic adventure, we commenced with a delightful shared dish—popcorn shrimp tempura. This appetiser pays homage to the ocean’s bounty, featuring tender shrimp coated in a spicy mayo blend before being crisped to a golden perfection. The small, bite-sized shrimp invite communal dining, much like enjoying a bowl of popcorn during a movie. For the main course, I opted for the Katsu curry, served atop a bed of fragrant rice. The decision was inspired by the sight of the dish gracing a nearby table. As I took my first bite, any prior hesitation disappeared , replaced by sheer contentment. Unlike traditional curry preparations, the Japanese Katsu curry introduces a twist—fried breaded chicken. This innovative pairing results in a symphony of textures: the crispy panko-breaded chicken cutlet, the velvety curry sauce, and the translucent Japanese rice with its delightful stickiness. Every element harmonised beautifully, affirming the serendipity of my choice. Choosing to forgo dessert, I opted for a glass of prosecco, a sparkling conclusion that resonated perfectly with the evening’s indulgence. Meso, I’m told is named after its founder Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, a master of fusion cuisine blending traditional Japanese dishes with Peruvian ingredients. The rest of the food enthusiasts opted for a specific dish: a delectable grilled sirloin steak served alongside perfectly roasted potatoes. What set their steak apart was its unique presentation, arriving in distinctively cut strips that deviated from the conventional norm. Although the steak had been meticulously seasoned, enhancing its flavours, regrettably, its texture proved to be a bit disappointing. The meat exhibited a chewiness and toughness that detracted from the overall enjoyment of the Thursday, August 24, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY TRAVEL WISE 23 This culturally vibrant and enchanting culinary haven in the heart of Westlands is a perfect spot for your business lunch or a leisurely catch-up with loved ones and friends Asian inspired delicacies One of Tsavo West National Park entrances. PD/HARRIET JAMES be affected,” says Tuva Mwahunga, General Manager Severin Sea Lodge in Mombasa, a brand that also has properties in Tsavo West National Park. The stakeholders are also complaining that the sudden changes without prior notice greatly affects the tourism business. Some businesses have experienced cancelations of future travels with tourists opting for other destinations, such as Tanzania, which has currently been chosen as the most preferred destination by tourists. Top up margin Tourism players recommend that they be given ample notice of not less than 18 months since the international market has consumer laws and most source market do not allow price change once a package has been bought and paid for. This issue has made the local operator incur losses as they will have to top up the margin. “Contracts for 2024 have already been signed and tour operators have done so based on the park fees communicated to their clients. I had some clients who had booked in advance for next year, because of affordable rates, but have cancelled because I have notified them of the changed rates from next year. We charge all inclusive meaning the park, hotel and tour vehicles are charged as one package. This change has tarnished our image, as well as that of the destination. They should consult us the stakeholders before making such drastic changes,” explains Calvin Ouma, CEO Calvin Tours and Safaris Limited. Normally, tour operators negotiate early with hotels for a better room and for their guests to have better rates. Now, some are in trouble as their clients are refusing to top up. “If you book late, chances are that the hotel will be fully booked or you won’t get a good room, which some clients may not be comfortable with and will give you a bad review. That’s why some clients pay early, but now with increased park fees, we have had to let our clients know about it and that has earned me a bad review on the Trip Advisor platform for informing a client that they had to add more money. As business owners, we have a lot to pay for, such as taxes and having to refund or top up simply, because a client has refused to pay is dragging us behind. Guests are already heading to Tanzania and no amount of public relations will save us this time,” he adds. Rosebell Mugambi of East African Luxury Safaris has also experienced the heat from increased park fees and believes that the increase was untimely and unreasonable particularly at a time when the industry is still recovering from the effects of the pandemic. “Some clients are not happy, while others accepted the new rates, because for some of them, their biggest percentage of visits are supplied by tourism traders and corporates. They are the ones who correspond and engage clients on the ground. They understand their concerns more and how much a percentage increase would hurt the destination. A collaborative venture would work best as they would brief the clients in an understanding manner,” she says. Financially contrained She believes that Kenya has not yet reached the over tourism level to have high rates with the aim of controlling mass tourism. “The high prices will make the destination more expensive, especially since even hotels rates have gone up. Another thing we have noted is that those who are financially constrained are still interested in coming to Kenya. The number of park stays or visits will decline as most will opt to do other activities or visit other destinations, such as Tanzania and use Kenya as a point of transit. My recommendation would be that we go back to the original park entry fees,” she says in conclusion. FORK&LIFE 2023 commemorated on September 27. The County Ececutive Committee Member (CECM) in charge of Tourism, Farida Salim, said that the Directorate of Tourism has partnered with Kenya Wildlife Service, Athletics Kenya Nyanza North, and Tourism Fund, to promote a sustainable tourism sector in the region. Salim projected that over 5,000 participants are expected to attend the fete thus making it the largest environmental conservation event in the lake region. “This will not just be about the race, it is a celebration of community and healthy living, connecting with fellow participants, making new friends, and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere that Kisumu County has to offer,” she stated. Activities lined up for the day, include a road race for adults and children fun run, a tri-cycling competition for people with disabilities, a nature festival at the Kisumu Impala Sanctuary and an awards gala. “These events are a great way to engage with local people, especially the fun run which is really accessible to everyone, including children and adults looking forward to running together as families or those new to running sports,” Salim explained. Athletics Kenya Nyanza North Secretary, Thomas Ongwacho urged the locals to massively register for the event that seeks to identify and nurture young athletes. Ongwacho noted that participants will compete in three main races; a fivekilometre fun run, a 10-kilometre race for both locals and elite athletes, and a 21-kilometre half marathon competition. The winners in each category will receive cash rewards during an award gala. “This activity is open for everybody whether young or old. As we launch the registration exercise, I urge us to enroll in masses to have a chance to take part in this historic event,” Ongwacho appealed. The registration fee to participate in any of the activities is charged uniformly at Sh2100 for both adults and children. The annual World Tourism Day celebration seeks to foster awareness among the international community on the importance of tourism on its social, cultural, political, and economic value. This year’s celebration will be themed, ‘Tourism and Green Investment – Investing in People, Planet and Prosperity’. side city of Kisumu to hold road race to promote tourism The eatery is a modern Asian experience in a contemporary, luxury dining setting. PD/FAITH KYOUMUKAMA Popcorn shrimp tempura, featuring tender shrimp coated in a spicy mayo blend. INSET: Katsu curry served with fragrant rice. PD/FAITH KYOUMUKAMA

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VOIFBMUIZ 24 PEOPLE DAILY / Thursday, August 24, 2023 by Cash Mandi @PeopleDailyKe T hroughout the day we keep snacking, but Esther Kinuthia realised that she was snacking on the wrong things and couldn’t get healthy and pocket friendly snacks. With her busy daily schedule at her job, she had no time to prepare anything to carry to eat, so she could pick and snack on anything that came her way, and it was mostly unhealthy. She graduated from university in 2019 and was looking forward to changing jobs for greener pastures. She was hoping that 2020 would be her year to make broad moves, but Covid-19 happened and it changed everything. Hotels were closed down and no business was willing to employ. “I had to go back to the drawing board. This served as an eye opener,” she starts. With an inclination towards healthy food, she birthed an idea to have muesli and granola bars as her new area of focus. She took a bold step going against huge and established companies that had been in the market for decades and started Ryaivas Foods, which makes a powerhouse breakfast cereal to help kick start your day with energy. Desire for healthy options The name Ryaivas is derived from her her son’s name Ryan and daughter’s name Ivana. They manufacture healthy breakfast cereal, cashew nuts and granola bars. “The desire to offer a healthy breakfast cereal option and snack that is carefully prepared in an ethical, sustainable and environmentally friendly manner is our driving force,” she says. A graduate of Kenya Utalii College in food production and a bachelor degree holder from Kenyatta University in sales and marketing, Esther has a day job as a hotelier and works on her business after hours. The business registration was done in 2020. “I chose muesli because it is nutrient filled. It can be snacked on, on its own, added to your maziwa lala, yoghurt, fresh animal milk or your milk alternative such as almond milk, soy milk or oat milk. Muesli and granola bars keep you full for a longer period, therefore ruling out the likelihood of going for something that is unhealthy,” she says. Esther had never done any business before, therefore, sourcing for raw materials was a big challenge. Nevertheless Burst of goodness for healthier people People Plus Tell ZPVSStory Esther Kinuthia’s inclination towards healthy food birthed and idea to have muesli and granola bars as healthy snacks, eventually setting up her own company called Ryaivas Foods her determination saw her consulting friends and family to give her clues and introduce her to reputable suppliers locally. Start-up costs and the legal documents required to start and run your business are so many and expensive. This challenge was temporarily solved by Jiko manufacturing incubation kitchen that assists promising start-ups that cannot afford the many costs. They solve 80 per cent of your legal and start-up needs, and provide a hygienic space for product preparation, therefore actualising one’s dreams and making it a reality. Aspirations for growth “We look forward to owning a fully equipped production area and a proper manufacturing company in future. Our products are doing well in the niche market that we have focused on. We look forward to getting into more retail shops, so that we are able to get close to our customers and ensure steady supply of the products to a larger number of our esteemed customers. It is a dream that we are working towards every day,” says Esther. Ryaivas muesli is prepared from oats, almonds, cashew nuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, dark and gold raisins and honey. It is then roasted to perfection to give you a healthy and tasty experience. “Our muesli also contains dried fruits like mango, coconut, apples and bananas, which makes it balanced and different from other offers in the market. For the sweet tooth team we have you sorted with our chocolate Muesli,” she quips. It comes in a range of four variations in 225g and 450g packs ranging from Sh400 to Sh750. “We source our raw materials locally. This is very intentional to ensure that we support the local farmers and other small businesses that we do business with,” Esther says. As for the granola bars, Esther prepares them from oats, dates, honey, dried fruits, cashew nuts and almonds. “We do not use preservatives, artificial flavours or refined sugar in our products,” she emphasises. She says her target customers are the health conscious customers who are willing to invest in their health and that of their families, school-going children, athletes, gym enthusiasts, hikers and bootcamp lovers. The granola bars come in three variations and retail from Sh220. Ryaivas also does cashew nuts that are sourced from Kenyan Coast farmers. She says, “The nuts are of premium quality and we ensure that they are roasted to perfection. They come in two flavours: plain roasted and lime, and cayenne pepper flavoured, packed in in 150g and 300g packets. All products come in a friendly re-usable zip-locked bag that is easy to open.” Diet as medicine Esther encourages people to carry the muesli and granola bars as a snack on the go, to the office, during travel and school-going children. “They are an excellent snack, breakfast cereal option and dessert topping option. We must purpose to have a healthy diet because your diet should be your medicine,” she affirms. As a way to assist small businesses grow, Esther suggests that start-ups should have access to funding that is of low interest, access to business training programmes and access to government incentives and a much more business-friendly environment. Ryaivas was recently awarded by Kayana Create (a community of women business owners with a focus on collaboration and capacity building) for their commitment to its staff. “This served as a statement that the brand is slowly impacting the society positively and we look forward to more wins and impacting the society positively,” she says in conclusion. Ryaivas Foods founder Esther Kinuthia. PD/CASH MANDI AT A GLANCE Esther Kinuthia realised that she was snacking on the wrong things and couldn’t get healthy and pocket friendly snacks. With her busy daily schedule at her place of work, she had no time to prepare anything to carry to eat, so she could pick and snack on anything that came her way, and it was mostly unhealthy. After graduated from university in 2019, she was looking forward to changing jobs for greener pastures and hoped that 2020 would be her year to make broad moves, but Covid-19 happened and it changed everything. With hotels closed down and no business was willing to employ, coupled with her inclination towards healthy food, she birthed an idea to have muesli and granola bars as her new area of focus. Esther took a bold step going head to head with companies that have been in the market for decades and started Ryaivas Foods, which makes a powerhouse breakfast cereal. Her target customers are the health conscious customers who are willing to invest in their health and that of their families, school-going children, athletes, gym enthusiasts, hikers and bootcamp lovers. Ryaivas Foods founder Esther Kinuthia. PD/ CASH MANDI

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)VSV Zunda - To hide Origin - Huruma Example - Juu ya economy kukuwa juu, mayoutman wengi wanaamua kujizunda kejani kama hawako mboka. Tepa - Awful smell Origin - Dando Example - Ni kawaida ndula kutepa after a long day pale mboka. , una competition biggie ya athletics inaendelea husuko Budapest, Hungary, na kama kawa 254 tuko represented vimajor. Inakuwanga wish ya kila athlete kurepresent nchi yasake kwa contest bwaku kama hii World Athletics Championships enye inaendelea husuko Europe, ama ata Olympics. So, congratulations kwa every athlete mwenye ako ndani ya Budapest kupeperusha flag ya country yake manze. Sportsmen na women ndio wanakuwanga brand ambassadors wakuu kwa any country. Iwe ni kwa mbio, footah, volleyball, golf, rallying, boxing ama any other sport, hawa wasee wanadeserve respect, recognition na everything good enye inafaa kupewa heroes na heroines wa nchi. Hio kujitolea sio kitu rahisi. So, inakuwanga kitu jamo heartbreaking kwa sana ile time unacheki a sportsperson akifanyiwa madharau. Hii ni riba ilileta mjadala jamo nom asana pale kwa Parliament, mpaka ikafanya CS wa Sports, Youth Affairs na Arts, Ababu Namwamba, akuwe summoned pale kuexplain why ministry yasake inaignore sports personalities wa hii beloved nation yetu. Kuna team noma sana ya 25 athletes ilikuwa imeshuka husuko Berlin, Germany, kurepresent Kenya kwa Special Olympics za dis year. But according to MPs, hio team ilikuwa inadequately facilitated, na hata after kuland yardy after hio competition, CS mwenyewe hakuwa pale airport kuwakaribisha. Na wanataka kujua why. Leo ndirau zetu zimetukutanisha na super model AROT LOTIT akitambulika na mboka za fashion modelling, pageantry na acting, akitupeleka na mutarara venye mboka inampeleka Ilikuaje ukaamulia hii uradi? Kutoka nikue pikni nililove sana hii mzuka ya modeling, so after kunyuria shule nilikula mbuku beauty na hairdressing alafu one day nikakumbana na poster nik join Pink Ribbon Kenya na 2020 nikakuwa Miss Samburu County the rest is history. Achievements nazo ni gani so far? Nimeeza kupatana na wasee nilikuwa naona tu ka mbulu na natamani kuwakiche hadi sahii tumekua maarif. Nime grow sana mentally na sahii niko ryeng nini nadai kudo kwa hii life. Challenges hazikosagi? Kwanza pageantry ni grind expensive serious; ni lazima ufike bei maoutfits mara photo shoot na grooming, so inabaki ukuwe na kakitu kako kiasi ndio usilembee ikifika ni works. Hii wera pia sio ya kutegemewa 100 per cent lazima side hustle. Social media inaimpact aje grind yako? Nimeweza kulearn from established models kwa mtandao na kuelewa fashion trends kwenye harakati za kukuwa Miss Kenya alafu Miss Universe, Inshallah. Vision yako in the next years? Nadai kusaidia young talents kutoka area yetu Samburu na Africa mzima. Advise To someone? Do what you are passionate about, kuwa persistent na usiwai give up. Kuwa na projects za kukupea doh kuekelea huku kwa modelling na acting. 1. Lost Cause Freestyle – Asum Garvey 2. Moment of Bliss - Nyashinski 3. Turn Me Up – V Trap 4. Nena - Salim 5. Kesho - Mkubwa Faza ft Tope Mc 6. Good To Me - Nyashinski 7. My Sugar - Otile Brown & Nadia Mukami 8. The Plan- Musa Kiama ft Iddi Singer 9. Grim Ripper – Jodye Faneto 10. Katunge – Vijana Barubaru ft Shad Mziki K RHYME CLASSIC Kevin Oduor Otieno aka K Rhyme Classic ni msanii anafanya fiti ikifika ni mziki wa Afro-bongo. Ni msela amejiseti hapa Kanairo chini ya record label inajiita Usanii Music Africa, but ocha kwao ni husuko Siaya county. Alianza kupenda maswala ya mziki akiwa mless, but sasa mambo yake ilianza kufunguka hapo 2016 wakati alicheza kama yeye kwenye mike open sessions na pia kwa marap battles. Hapo ndio alikutana na msanii tajika wa bongo fleva Top-C, mwenye alimshika mkono akamwingiza huku bongo na kumsupport kwenye game. Hapo 2017, aliback Kanairo na akaachilia ngoma tatu Siri, Moyo na Ufisadi. Akiwa kwenye hustle zake, mdosi pale Ubunifu Music alibambika na yeye na akamjenga opportunity ya kuchapa shughuli na wao. Kutoka hapo, jamaa hakulalisha na akajiskuma vilvyo. So far, ametoa ngoma kadhaa including WiFi, Sponsa, Flora, Melo, Mazonge na KiBenten. Ingia kwa mneti umkiche. ASUM GARVEY Abortion ni noma Siku hizi kuna noma zenye hazielweki. Yaani unapata msee amepotea days kadhaa, especially magaldem, na akipatikana, unapata ashadedi. Mara mob huwa tunasema ni mabandi ndio wamefanya hiyo noma, but pia mara kadhaa utaskia alikuwa na ball na complications zingine mob hapo. Mara mob ikifika ni ngori ya dem kuavya mimba, huwa dem ndio anaangushiwa noma na hakuna msee anauliza chali muhusika, juu most of the time wao ndio hutoa ganji za kutoa ball yenyewe. Kama wanaume, tunafaa kujiita mkutano tujiulize hizi maswali na pia role yetu ni gani kupunguza hizi cases. Wanaume wengi hawataki kuwa responsible na bado wanataka kula peremende bila juala, but watakuwa wa kwanza kutoa doh za kwenda kutoa ball yenyewe. Kama uko na issue na mdem wa wenyewe kuhusiana na ball, kuna places mob msee anaeza saidika kufanya safe abortion na pia kama unajiaminia, ni poa kulea huyo mtoi. Kitu ingine ni poa pia tukianza kubonga kuhusu hizi issues, especially kati yetu vijana ndio pia tuchanuane vile wasee wanaeza epuka hizi ngori. Huko ghetto kuna madoki quacks na wanadanganya wasee vile wanaeza wahelp kutoa ball kumbe ni ufala yenye inapotezea msee maisha. Kaa chonjo na wao na pia kwa life yako, kuwa rada ya hawa mafala. Wasee wetu wa sports waangaliwe vile inafaa Sio mara ya fao tunacheki maungamwe kaa hizi za kifala zikifanyikia sportspersons. Unaget msee amejitolea yake yote kuona flag ya Kenya imepeperushwa juu zaidi ya zingine from across the world, but akirudi yard anaget ata gova haimjali. Kuna wengine most wenye walikuwa brand ambassadors wa hii country when they were young and energetic, but after kuretire, unapata wanakuwa mafukara tu. Wanastruggle na life mpaka wanabugdu wakiwa maskini hohehahe. Hii ni situation tunawish ingekuwa reversed na tuanze kurecognise na kureward wana michezo wetu vile inafanyikanga kwengineko. Sio kungoja wadedi ndio tuwapatie State burials na time walikuwa hai ata hatukuwajali. So, time ya kuact ipasavyo ni now rather than later!

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by Dennis Mabuka @PeopleSports11 Kenyan officials accompanying schools to the Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Associations (FEASSSA) in Rwanda have come under the spotlight after being accused of neglecting their duties and abandoning their respective teams. The tournament, which kicked off last Saturday and is set to end on August 27 in Huye, Rwanda, has attracted 10 schools from various East African countries vying for football supremacy. Among the Kenyan schools taking part in football are St Anthony Kitale, who earned their spot after a stunning victory in the Kenya Secondary School Games, where they triumphed over their rivals, Dagoretti High, with a resounding 2-0 result. By virtue of finishing second, Dagoreti are also taking part alongside Shanderema High School from the Western region. However, reports from Rwanda have emerged officials in charge of the teams have neglected their duties and –apparently - are on “holiday.” “Kenyan national officials in School games happening in Rwanda are a big letdown. These officials it is like they came for a holiday in Rwanda,” said Eric Lunga’ho of Shanderema on his social media pages. He continued, “They (officials) are nowhere to be seen when the schools are playing. You can imagine a team getting on the pitch with no provision of water. In our match with Amus College of Uganda, there was no doctor to attend to our injured players. Imagine a national official asking a student in which field their game will be played. This is the responsibility of the officials to guide the teams. I have seen some Kenyan government vehicles parked in odd places when they should be attending to the welfare of the Kenyan teams. .&%·VXQYHLOVFKHVV ZDUULRUVUHDG\WRFRQTXHU LQWKHJOREDOVFHQHV by Lucky Oluoch @Lucky Oluoch KCB has revealed a starstudded ensemble of six skilled players who will represent East Africa in the inaugural World Rapid Chess Championship. The squad is primed to vie for top accolades in the 12-round Swiss tournament scheduled to take place in the German city of Düsseldorf from this Saturday (August 26) to next week on Monday (August 28). Leading the team is candidate master Benjamin Magana, accompanied by a roster including Robert Mcligeyo, Martin Njoroge, Joseph Methu, Joyce Nyaruai, and Isaac Babu, who serves as the Team Manager as well. While speaking yesterday during the flagging off ceremony in Nairobi, the team captain expressed his enthusiasm saying that the games are a perfect test for the team to weigh their skills and prowess in the game. “This competition presents a formidable test for us, an opportunity to gauge our skills and prowess in the game. As we journey to Düsseldorf, our mission is to showcase Kenya’s calibre, asserting our ability to compete on the grand international stage,” he emphasized. The World Rapid Chess Championship stands as a pivotal event to determine the global champion under rapid time control. Participation mandates a team with at least 6 members, encompassing one female player and an individual without a FIDE (The International Chess Federation) rating exceeding 2000. Outcomes of matches are contingent upon all players’ performance, attributing 2 match points for a victory, 1 point for a draw, and 0 points for a loss. The championship title rests on the team accruing the highest match points. KCB remains the sole representative from East Africa in the global tournament, attracting 43 teams worldwide, all contending for a substantial €250,000 (Sh39.1 million) prize fund. As East African secondary schools vie for glory controversy brews over Kenyan officials’ who are apparently on ‘holiday’ at the expense of players KCB Group Credit Director Bernard Okello, KCB Group Director, Marketing and Communication Rosalind Gichuru, KCB Chess Team manager Isaac ‘Babu’ Odiah, together with President chess Kenya Bernard Wanjala during the flagging off ceremony at Kencom, Nairobi. PD/ALEX NJUE 1HJOHFWHG LQ5ZDQGD Part of the action between St Antony Kitale and Dagoretti High during the national school games finals. PD/SPORT PICHA NAIROBI: The World Kickboxing Federation of Kenya (WKF-Kenya) yesterday announced a change in venue for the highly anticipated World Kickboxing Federation Kenya President’s Cup, originally scheduled for this Saturday. According to a statement from the federation, the event will now take place at Pumwani Social Hall, also known as “Pal Pal,” with the action set to kick off at exactly 10 am. The decision to shift the venue from Kasarani to Pumwani Social Hall was made due to circumstances beyond the federation’s control. This development comes as a surprise to fighters, spectators, and all stakeholders eagerly awaiting the spectacle. Under the astute leadership of its chairperson Japheth Yahuma Adongo, also known as “Takid Master,” the World Kickboxing Federation of Kenya has embarked on a journey to foster talent growth, nurturing it from the grassroots level to the national stage. Since its inception earlier this year (January), the federation has “organised three successful events to develop and promote talent growth from the grassroots all the way up to the national level.” -Lucky Oluoch NAIROBI: Defending FKFPremier League Champions Gor Mahia FC have made contact and agreements with two offensive players in the shape of Chrispinus Onyango formerly of Bandari FC and Ex-Tusker FC star Rogers Ouma (pictured). The duo had been released in the off-season by their respective clubs after elapsing of their contracts with K’Ogalo quickly luring them to the Green Army ahead of their first game against Sofapaka FC this Saturday in Round 1 of the 2023/24 season. Onyango is a pure centre forward while Ouma is an offensive player who can play several attacking positions.Head Coach Jonathan McKinstry and his technical team will be hoping the forward line will be boosted with the injury concerns over Ugandan attacker Patrick Kaddu and the loss of sharpness in recent times of main striker Benson Omalla. The latter, who is a national team player as well was second in the top scorer standings in the last campaign finishing with 26 goals. With K’Ogalo collectively scoring 53 goals in the 2022/23 season, all eyes will be on the new acquisitions who are seen as different profiles in helping Gor to add goals in their bag. -Barry Silah 28 PEOPLE SPORT FOR MORE NEWS VISIT: www.pd.co.ke / www.epaper. pd.co.ke THE ONE-STOP SPORT SHOP Thursday, August 24, 2023 '005#"-- Double signing set to ignite K’Ogalo’s premier league campaign ,*$,#0^*/( World Kickboxing Federation-Kenya moves event to Pumwani Social Hall

Thursday, August 24, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY PEOPLE SPORT 29 5RFN&LW\* 8QLWHGVKDUHVSRLOVDW ¶.RWK%LUR·WRXUQDPHQW by Lucky Oluoch @LuckyOluoch Rock City and G 45 United battled to a 1-1 draw after a nail-biting encounter during the 46th edition of the annual off-season soccer tournament, Koth Biro, yesterday. The Koth Biro tournament advanced to its second round of the group stage yesterday. However, it commenced on August 14, featuring 32 teams drawn from Nairobi, Kiambu, and Kajiado Counties. The group stage is set to conclude on August 29th, with teams aiming for a spot in the round of 16 The tournament’s chairman, Paul Ojenge, expressed his gratitude towards players and team managers for their disciplined and dedicated participation throughout the tournament. Even so, he voiced concerns about certain betting firms employing aggressive marketing tactics, which he termed as ‘Gorilla marketing tactics’. He went on and encouraged interested betting firms to engage with Koth Biro offices for proper negotiation and association. “So far everything has been running smoothly. We thank A player during the Koth Biro tourney yesterday. PHOTO/ CHARLES THUKU by Vincent Voiyoh @PeopleSports11 Kenyan trio Leonard Bett, Abraham Kibiwott and Simon Koech have given an assurance of giving better fights in the next Olympics Games and World Champions with a clear intention of reclaiming Kenya’s fast-fading global glory in men’s steeplechase. The three promising athletes failed in their pursuit to stop the superb form of Moroccan Soufiane El Bakkali and world record holder Lamecha Girma who were involved in a last-lap nail-biting showdown with Bakkali getting the bragging rights by striking the gold in a time of 8:03.53 at the charged National Athletics Stadium in the Hungarian capital on Tuesday night. Kibiwott stumbled while crossing the last barrier to the finish line while Bakkali and Girma stretched their lead to the tape. However, the Commonwealth Games champion managed to regain his balance with a powerful finish to snatch a consoling bronze medal for Kenya, clocking 8:11.98. “I hit the barrier but I did not lose hope, I had a mission here for a podium finish and that is why I stood up quickly to continue with a fight. I am glad to have gotten the bronze medal. I understand very well the feeling of Kenyans that this race (steeplechase) belongs to us, we have picked our lessons and the next step is to go back home, sit down with our coaches and take our training a notch higher. In the near future, we will be fine and we will restore our pride,” Kibiwott said. His sentiments have been echoed by fourthplace finisher Leonard Bett who says a time is coming when the tide will turn in favour of Kenya. “It is just a matter of time and we are coming up very well to halt their dominance. Even we (Kenya) have been ahead of them and now they are controlling the event and that is the nature of sports. You win some and you lose some though we are going to put in the work to ensure we reclaim the gold medal.” The result means Kenya has failed to rise to the occasion in two successive world championships with the pain stamped on the hearts of Kenyans by one Soufiane Bakkali who trounced Conseslus Kipruto last year in Oregon to become the only African non-Kenyan to ever win the world title. Meanwhile, Kenya’s medal hunt continues today with a number of homeboys and girls stepping on the track in qualification races. Nicholas Kimeli is expected to lead fellow countrymen in the semi-final test and will be in heat one together with three-time world 10,000m champion Joshua Cheptegei. Cornelius Kemboi of Kenya will be in that race with a common goal for a great outcome that will see him dance his way into the final. Last year’s silver medalists Jacob Krop,22, and Ishamael Kipkurui will also be in heat two of the semifinal. 6RUU\VWDWHRIDIIDLUV Kibiwott and Bett promise better tidings in Steeplechase as Kenya is once again taught a lesson in their traditional race Abraham Kibiwott during the World Athletics Championships at the National Athletics Stadium in the Hungarian capital on the night of Tuesday, August 22 . PHOTO/COURTESY the players and the managers for this. The only challenge we seemed to have was the gorilla marketing schemes some betting firms were pulling at the tournament. In as much as we dealt with that, we would wish to urge any betting firm that wishes to be associated with this great tournament to come through the Koth Biro offices and hold negotiations with us.” He further extended his appreciation to former Kenyan internationals, Jamal Mohammed, Arnold Origi, Samuel Owino Kempes, and Sammy Shollei, for their backing of the 46th Edition of Koth Biro. This edition garnered substantial support from former Kenyan internationals such as Jamal Mohammed, Arnold Origi, Samuel Owino Kempes, and Sammy Shollei.

NAIROBI: The three-day FKF Premier League and FKF Women Premier League pre-season PET training has concluded yesterday, at Kasarani Stadium. Football Kenya Federation president Nick Mwendwa presided over the closing ceremony. FKF NEC Member  Anthony Makua, FKF Nairobi West Chairman Caleb Malweyi, and FKF CEO Barry Otieno also graced the event. FKF President Nick Mwendwa emphasized the significance of these pre-season Physical Endurance Tests (PET) in preparation for the 2023/24 season. He highlighted that it is crucial for match officials to be well-trained and familiar with the new laws of the game. “This preseason PET is key to ensure our match officials are well-trained and understand the new laws of the game ahead of the 2023/24 season,” stated FKF President Nick Mwendwa. He further stressed the goal of having match officials who uphold fairness and justice in officiating matches. “We want to make sure that our match officials are upright, they understand fairness and justice, and are aware of how their decisions can impact the game for the better or worse. -Charles Thuku by Shadrack Andenga @PeopleDailyKe KCB Rugby Club player Vincent Onyala has been named the new Kenya Sevens captain, replacing long serving Nelson Oyoo Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has confirmed. Newly appointed head coach Kevin Mwema confirmed on Wednesday in Nairobi adding that he has also picked Mwamba Rugby Club’s Tonny Omondi to assist Onyala in his duties as captain. “ We are trying to do things afresh and start by conquering Africa first then head to the world. We are building something good here that will serve a better future for Kenya Rugby, “ Mwema said. Kenya Sevens team currently training at the RFUEA grounds in Nairobi are preparing for the Rugby Africa Sevens in Zimbabwe with the final squad set to be announced soon. The Rugby Africa Sevens are scheduled for Harare in Zimbabwe from the 16-17th September 2023 where Kenya will play Nigeria at 11:00am, Namibia at 3:50 pm and finish it up with Zambia at 4:34 pm local time on the first day 16th September. KCB 7s Captain Vincent Onyala (centre) runs into a tackle against Oiler’s defence during the Prinsloo 7s rugby tournament at the Nakuru Athletics Club on Sunday. PD/ ALEX NJUE .&%·62Q\DODQDPHG QHZUXJE\VFDSWDLQ 30 PEOPLE SPORT PEOPLE DAILY / Thursday, August 24, 2023   4$)00-4
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NBUDIFT 2-2 RANGERS Sima 45’ Matondo 76’ Champions League Qualification PSV EINDHOVEN Sangare 61’ de Jong 80’ by Dennis Mabuka @PeopleDailyKe AFC Leopards will kick off their 2023-24 FKF Premier League season without the services of their first choice goalkeeper Levis Opiyo on Sunday. Ingwe will launch their campaign to win the title that has eluded them since 1998 when they host FC Talanta at Kasarani Stadium. However, they will have to navigate the fixture minus the former Posta Rangers custodian after he confirmed his absence owing to an injury. Though the 28-year-old Opiyo has resumed training with the rest of the squad, Sunday’s opener against Talanta and the second fixture of the season against KCB FC on September 13 will be too soon for the player, who confirmed the development on his social media pages by saying: “Glad to have resumed training yesterday (Wednesday), feels good, now it’s time to work hard and to be in shape,” Opiyo wrote, adding: “I will miss our first two to three opening season matches due to fitness, but I will work hard to be on selection soon.” In his absence, AFC will be called upon to rely on new signing Humphrey Katasi, who joined the Den from Nzoia Sugar in the current transfer window. In a recent interview, Ingwe coach Tom Juma stressed the importance of having his full squad fit and intact in a bid to challenge for the title and Opiyo’s absence will surely be a huge blow to the former Harambee Stars midfielders’ ambitions to open the campaign on a positive note. “As a team, we need to put a lot of things right, we have been working hard to make sure we bring on board quality players capable of giving us the positive result we desire, it will be difficult to succeed without a quality squad free on injuries,” said Juma, adding: “We want to have a total commitment towards the team, we want to put all our energy in the team, I insist it is possible to win the title, but with a good mentality, good planning, a good squad and proper support from the office then we can achieve something at the end of the season.” RYADH: Al-Ittihad manager Nuno Espirito Santo has told the club that Karim Benzema does not fit into his plans, according to reports. Benzema joined the Saudi Pro League champions earlier this summer, signing a three-year deal after calling time on his 14-year career at Real Madrid. However, according to Saudi newspaper Al-Sharq Al-Awsat via GOAL, there are tensions between the Frenchman and Santo. The report claims Santo has told the Al-Ittihad board that Benzema does not fit his style of play and  he did not request the transfer. The 35-year-old striker is also said to have asked for the the captaincy, but the Portuguese boss turned it down. Benzema is said to be ‘not comfortable’ working in the current environment at Al-Ittihad which could lead to a shock exit after just two months with team. -Dailymail NAIROBI: FKF Premier League outfit Bandari FC have set their eyes on winning the 2023-24 title after strengthening their squad with 10 new signings in the current transfer window. The Dockers under Twahir Muhiddin have officially closed their transfer activities after acquiring the services of former Gor Mahia goalkeeper Fredrick Odhiambo from Rwanda’s AS Kigali, defender Swaleh Chacha from Ulinzi Stars, midfielder Robert Wanyama from Wazito FC, defender Swaleh Pamba and midfielder Jackson Dwang from Posta Rangers. Other new faces in the squad include defender Edward Satulo from AS Kigali, midfielder Mohamed Beja from SS Assad, winger Alvin Ngoto, who joined from National Super League (NSL) side Mwatate United, and left-back Apundo Sunday from Posta Rangers. According to Bandari’s top official Twaha Mbarak, the new signings have already hit the ground running and will be tasked to win the team their first-ever league when the campaign gets underway on Saturday. -Dennis Mabuka Benzema does not suit my style at Al-Ittihad, Nuno Espirito says Bandari set eyes on Premier League title after 10 signings, says Mbarak FKF PL and WPL match officials complete pre-season PET at Kasarani 0LVVLQJLQDFWLRQ AFC Leopards custodian Levis Opiyo (left) saves the ball from Benson Omalla of Gor Mahia FC during their Mashemeji derby match played at Nyayo National Stadium, Nairobi on January 29 2023. PD/ RODGERS NDEGWA Goalkeeper Opiyo to miss AFC Leopards opener against FC Talanta

 FOOTBALL: Football Kenya Federation (FKF) have lined up two friendly matches for the national team Harambee Stars during the upcoming FIFA international break as part of their preparations for the upcoming FIFA and CAF assignments. According to a statement from FKF obtained by People Sports, Harambee Stars under head coach Engin Firat will first confront 2022 FIFA World Cup hosts Qatar, in Doha, on September 7, before returning home to take on South Sudan in Nairobi on September 12. “The national team, Harambee Stars, is set to play two international friendly matches next month (September) in preparation for their upcoming competitive FIFA and CAF assignments, Stars will face Qatar, in Doha before facing South Sudan in Nairobi,” read part of the statement, adding: “The friendly matches are aimed at preparing the team for the upcoming CAF and FIFA assignments with CHAN qualifiers scheduled to commence on September 22 to 24.” Kenya to play Qatar and South Africa in September friendlies TBT Then Now with WEBSTER NYANDIKA Thursday, August 24, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY PEOPLE SPORT 31 FOOTBALL: Two Kenyan athletes have been arrested after a Rwandan runner was found dead at a renowned training centre in western Kenya following an alleged involvement in what local media have dubbed a “love triangle”. Siragi Rubayita, 34, was training in the town of Iten before a competition in Italy. His family claim he was killed in what they have described as “a senseless act of violence when a fellow athlete and his girlfriend invited him to their home the night before his departure”. The family are calling for “truth and justice” for their son who was “pursuing his passion for running and sports excellence”. Police investigating the incident that led to Mr Rubayita’s death say two Kenyan athletes, a male and a female, are the main suspects. Nasra Bishumba, Mr Rubayita’s sister, told the BBC that her brother was expected back home in Kigali on Friday before his scheduled trip to Italy. She said his coaches in Iten were “instrumental” in searching for him when his roommate raised the alarm after his failure to return home. “After informing us, they immediately started working with the police and that’s how the suspects were apprehended,” she said. It’s believed the Kenyan male athlete was allegedly unhappy with the relationship between Rubayita. -BBC Kenyan athletes held after ‘love triangle’ death of Rwandan runner FOOTBALL: After coming close to winning Kenya’s greatest prize of Sh 317,596,552, Makori Simion Nyakundi, a Kisii County resident who has been in the wood industry for more than 20 years, had conflicting emotions after receiving Sh 2,318,295 Sportpesa Mega Jackpot Bonus. Makori, who correctly predicted the outcome of 14 out of the 17 games in the SportPesa Mega Jackpot last weekend, reveals that this is in fact his first visit to Nairobi and that he is ecstatic since his life will no longer be the same. He said that this will transform his life because he has never won an enormous amount of money. He also claimed that at first, this baffled and shocked him, but later he realized that he is a millionaire. The most wonderful thing about this is that he put several bets, and luckily, out of all those bets, he won one. For this reason, the most inspiring thing is that he has been winning little bonuses, which has encouraged him to play harder. -Webster Nyandika Timber trader comes close to winning Sh317m SportPesa Mega Jackpot  Name: Moises Caicedo Ages: 21 years Nickname: ‘Moi’ Sport: Football Previous Clubs: Independiente del Valle, Beerschot, Brighton & Hove Albion. Current Club: Chelsea Position: Midfielder Nationality: Ecuadorian Accolades: U-20 Copa Libertadores (2020), Brighton Player of the Season (2022-23) Caps: 32 (3) Hails from: Santo Domingo, Ecuardo ,·YHMXVW VWDUWHG by Vincent Voiyoh @PeopleDailyKe Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba has reiterated his uttermost willingness for more appearances before the Members of the National Assembly to give more light where necessary on pertinent matters regarding sports, youth affairs and arts in the country. The Minister says it was fair for one to get a chance to shed more light on the allegations thrown at him and that the sessions were equally vital for the presentation of facts. While addressing the media after attending yesterday’s question and answer sessions at parliament, Ababu noted that allegations against him were not based on malice but a clear sign of the need to engage the parliamentarians. He also called upon Athletics Kenya and Football Kenya Federation (FKF) to ensure they hold their elections within the stipulated period, noting that the athletics body had gone for more than a decade without going to polls. “It is always a good opportunity to come to parliament, I spent 10 years here and therefore I am not entirely new at parliament, I would really want to have more of such engagements because they give opportunities to share information and clarify issues. One of the issues I have seen for instance is that we need members of parliament to know more about the works of the federations, to be more involved in the agenda we have of improving the sports industry with better managed federations. This interaction also helps us reinforce the reality that sports funding in this country is very low. It is a useful interaction and there should be more to build a better understanding,” Ababu said. Ababu dismissed all the accusations against him before the members. He noted that the allegations that he had flown to Budapest for World Athletics Championships were misleading and that his ministry has been at the forefront in implementing austerity measures on state funded travels. “The reason why I am happy I got the chance to come here is that it is difficult to respond to some utterances online. Such utterances are like Ababu is in Budapest and am here. We had a number of international sporting events this year, for sure I can tell you I have not attended any of those. The Ministry of Sports is one of the leading in cutting costs. Like in Budapest we only have two officials from the ministry.” He further scoffed off claims of team Kenya wearing fake adidas kits to international competitions. Sports Cabinet Secretary Ababu Namwamba records part of the action during the Rally Cross action at Machakos People’s Park on Sunday. INSET: Namwamba answers questions at Parliament yesterday. PD/ SPORTPICHA ...Ababu says as he waters down calls for his resignation and welcomes more prenary sessions to enlighten legislators on matters sports

Thursday, August 24, 2023 / / / @PeopleDailyKe / / / People Daily People Daily is published by Mediamax Network Limited at DSM Place, Kijabe Street, P.O. Box 24943, 00100 - Nairobi, Tel: 0730144100; 0709824000; 0204944100 Fax: 2228503 Nairobi and printed at our Printing Division on Mombasa Road, Tel: 04522641. Circulation: Union Towers, 1st Floor, Moi Avenue. Tel: 2519168. Advertising 2227693, 2228493. E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] Copyright 2023. All rights reserved. NBA fines Harden Sh14.5m for threatening not to play for 76ers BUDAPEST: James Harden has been fined Sh 14.5m ($100,000) by the NBA for saying he would not play for the Philadelphia 76ers while president Daryl Morey was in charge. The guard called Morey a “liar” in an interview after reports the 76ers had ended talks about trading him. Harden, 33, was reportedly keen to join the LA Clippers before talks faltered. The NBA said the fine was for saying “he would not perform the services called for under his player contract unless traded to another team”. In response, the National Basketball Players Association said: “We respectfully disagree with the league’s decision to discipline James Harden for recent comments he made, which we believe do not violate the rule against public trade demands. “We intend to file a grievance and have the matter heard by our Arbitrator.” -BBC PARIS: Paris Saint-Germain players only voted Kylian Mbappe in fourth place when choosing their captain for the season. According to RMC Sport, during an anonymous vote Mbappe finished fourth, with the striker having refused to sign a new contract amid interest from Real Madrid. The striker looks set to remain at PSG for now despite there having been much uncertainty over his future this summer. However, it remains to be seen where Mbappe’s long-term future lies as he has just one year remaining on his contract. Mbappe was the subject of a world record £259million bid from Al-Hilal, but elected against joining the Saudi Arabian side. Real Madrid remain interested in the 24-year-old ahead of a potential move next summer. Marquinhos has retained his status as PSG captain, with Danilo Pereira in second place and Presnel Kimpembe in third. Danilo Pereira is hugely respected in the dressing room and wore the armband against Lorient on the opening day of the Ligue 1 season when Marquinhos was unavailable. Mbappe has previously worn the armband for PSG, including on several occasions towards the end of last season. -BBC PSG players ‘choose Mbappe in fourth place in anonymous vote’ as they elect their captain Budapest, Wednesday @PeopleDailyKe Lamecha Girma, twice a world recordbreaker this year, had to settle for a fourth global 3000m steeplechase silver medal as world and Olympic champion Soufiane El Bakkali beat him in a familiar manner to win in 8:03.53 at the World Athletics Championships Budapest 23 on Tuesday (22). There was another monumental struggle between the two men over the final lap as Ethiopia’s Girma – who set a world indoor 3000m record and then lowered the world steeplechase record that had stood since 2004 to 7:52.11 – strove to make his new status tell. But as in last year’s World Championships in Oregon, and the Tokyo Olympic final, the 27-year-old Moroccan was able to find the killing final speed to frustrate Girma’s ultimate ambition. At the finish line, which he crossed in 8:05.44, Girma’s face was drained of emotion as he accepted a flag that was placed dutifully over his shoulders without doing anything energetic with it. Three World Championships silvers in a row is a proud record - but it didn’t seem to feel like it at that moment. El Bakkali, meanwhile, prostrated himself in prayer before wandering, as if dazed, on the track before heading over to collect a flag and congratulations from his nearest and dearest, his face suddenly contorted with tears. “After winning in Eugene last year I am really proud to bring home another gold,” El Bakkali said. “I had great preparations for these championships but today’s field was very strong with athletes like Lamecha. -World Athletics 0RURFFR·V(O%DNNDOL·V ODWHVXUJHFRQGHPQV *LUPDWRWKLUGZRUOG VWHHSOHFKDVHVLOYHU Soufiane El Bakkali celebrate after winning the 3000m Steeple Chase race on Tuesday night. WORLD ATHLETICS by Dennis Mabuka @PeopleDailyKe Kenyan middle-distance superstar Faith Kipyegon (pictured) revealed her delight at winning the country its first gold medal at the World Athletics Championship after she emerged victorious in the 1,500m race in Budapest, Hungary on Tuesday night. She, however, said her celebrations will be short lived as she swiftly turns her focus to the 5000m race semi-final where she is also tipped for another gold medal. The 29-year-old Kipyegon capped a year that brought her a trio of world records by claiming a hattrick of world 1,500 metres after she ran a perfect race to come home in 3:54.87 during the final. Kipyegon, who dominated the final leading the track race from start to finish as she comfortably retained her world title in an event she has already set the world record in this year, was unchallenged by the field, winning in 3:54.87, with Ethiopia’s Diribe Welteji slotting in for second in a time of 3:55.69 while Dutchwoman Sifan Hassan surged into third place timed 3:56.00. Speaking after the race, Kipyegon said: “Being the defending champion and world record holder is not that easy but I thank God because he has helped me to defend my 1,500m title as I had promised back home before heading to Budapest, this was my big fish and I give thanks back to God for making it possible for me to bring the first gold back home and we hope for more medals.” On the tactics she deployed to take the lead from start to finish, Kipyegon said: “As the world record holder and defending champion you go to the front and control the race and just run your race. So I ran my race and it looked so easy,” adding: “I was quickest through the 400m and I knew going to the bell I had to push harder and harder. This win has motivated me a lot now going (into the 5000m); I know everything is possible now.” Apart from the 1,500m, Kipyegon is part of Team Kenya for the 5,000m race, and asked about her prospects of going for gold in the race, she replied: “I can’t talk about 5, 000m now but let us try and work hard, first with the heats and then we see how it will go, I know it will not be easy, but one thing that makes me confident is the fact we have a very strong team in the race and we will do our best.” Meanwhile, Kipyegon’s recent dominance in the track has left many questioning whether she would quit and transit to marathon, and when queried on the same in a different interview, Kipyegon remained coy insisting her main focus for now is to feature in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. “I don’t know if this is my last World Championships, I can’t tell because it’s all about what I can still do,” replied Kipyegon, adding: “I can’t limit myself in what I can still do in the future, for me, I’m looking forward to the Olympics 2024 in Paris.” Apart from Kipyegon, Kenya’s other medals so far in Budapest came through Commonwealth Games champion Abraham Kibiwott, who defied a massive chal- lenge in the final lap to clinch bronze in the 800m race, and Daniel Simiu, who bagged silver in the 10,000m race won by Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei. )DLWKFODLPV WKLUGZRUOGWLWOH Kipyegon delighted to win Kenya’s first gold in Budapest, shifts focus on 5000m race Download QR Code app on Google Play and scan this QR code with your smart phone for pictures, videos and more stories WOMEN 1500M RACE (FINAL): 1. Faith Kipyegon KEN 3:54.87 2. Diribe Welteji ETH 3:55.69 3. Sifan Hassan NED 3:56.00