People Daily Newspaper Thursday edition May 16

Wednesday, May 17, 2023 NO. www.pd.co.ke // www.epaper.pd.co.ke 07814 Ke nya’s Newspaper NO1. FREE Another 10 bodies found in Shakahola News Beat >> PG 2 Sh17b ‘promise’ for civil servants If approved, the money will be given to SRC which will then spend it on Collective Bargaining Agreements Pg 4 Haji nominated to head Intelligence Pg4 Equity Bank earns Sh12.8b profit in first quarter PG 14 SPENDING PLAN Sh2.2b Amount SRC spent on higher pay and perks in six months to December 2022 June 13 The Day Treasury CS Njuguna Ndung’u will present Budget estimates to the National Assembly Sh70b Money to be used on interventions like paying NHIF arreas Pay pledge in Budget: Treasury has asked MPs to approve extra money to pay higher salaries for public sector workers How Education Ministry plans to spend its Sh135 billion Bulk of the money will be used to pay salaries and ensure learners who sit national examinations transition to the next level, Permanent Secretary Belio Kipsang tells MPs thatt some of the money will also be used to increase access to learning for children with special needs, but there are about one million learners in secondary schools who will miss out completely. PD/KENNA CLAUDE End of era as sun sets on ‘Kanjo’ trucks News Beat >> PG 3 BELIo KIPSANt, EDucAtIoN PS Some 998,620 learners are not covered under the Free Day Secondary Education FDSE programme Story on Page 2

2 NEWS BEAT PEOPLE DAILY / Wednesday, May 17, 2023 TVET institutions need Sh18.5b extra to run, Machogu says by Mercy Mwai @PeopleDailyKe The state department for Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) is seeking an additional Sh18.5 billion for capitation, recruitment and promotion of trainers and equipping of various institutions. Of the money, Sh1.3 billion is for recruitment of trainers, Sh15.2 billion is for equipping completed institutions while Sh2 billion is for technical training financing. In a presentation made before the National Assembly’s Education Committee that is scrutinizing the 2023/2024 budget, Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu said the ministry requires additional funds to complete all projects including the stalled ones. Lack of equipment “The funding constraints under capitation, recruitment and promotion of trainers and lack of equipment in 70 newly completed institutions are key priority unfunded areas that require resources,” reads the presentation. Machogu told the committee that the State department has an acute shortage of trainers currently standing at 5,417 trainers. The Minister said the Public Service Commission (PSC) has given an approval to recruit 3,000 trainers, estimated to cost Sh1.992 billion, in the 2023/24 financial year yet the state department was allocated a paltry Sh720 million leaving a balance of Sh1.27 billion. In March, PSC announced that 588 degree holders, 398 higher diploma holders, and 314 certificate holders would be hired to work as trainers in the department. The most sought tutors include those trained in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Electrical Engineering (Power), Surveying, Architectural, Building and Civil Engineering and Medical Laboratory Technology. The tutors will be employed on permanent and pensionable terms. “Provision of these funds will facilitate realisation of Article 53 of the Constitution on free and compulsory basic education,” he insisted. “We are grateful for the continued support the State Department has received. However, the areas we have identified as being under-funded are critical to the achievement of our mandate,” the PS said. For Junior Secondary School (JSS), Kipsang said there are currently about 1.1 million learners in Grade Seven who will be transiting to Grade Eight within the 2023/24 Financial Year. He said the capitation requirement at the rate of Sh15,042 is Sh16.166 billion. Additionally, there are 15,686 SNE learners in Grade Seven who require top up capitation at the rate of Sh35,730, resulting in a requirement of Sh565.9 million. In January 2024, some 1.3 million learners are expected to join Grade Seven. The capitation requirement for Terms I and II will be Sh15.776 billion besides the 16,313 SNE learners requiring a top up capitation requirement of Sh582.87 million, bringing the total requirement to Sh31.942 billion. On exams, the PS said the number of candidates sitting 2023 Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) examination is 1,280,782 at the rate of Sh800 per candidate. This gives a requirement of at least Sh1 billion against a provision of Sh942.1 million. For those sitting the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination, the number stands at 893,103 at the rate of Sh5,400, which is a requirement of Sh4 billion against a provision of Sh3 billion. There is also a provision of Sh1 billion to cater for Grade Six learners’ assessment. He said the department purposes to strengthen delivery of Sciences and Mathematics in the implementation of junior secondary curriculum. NEMIS The ministry s adopting National Education Management Information Systems (NEMIS) for management of education data, ICT Infrastructure to support Competency Based Assessment (CBA) under Kenya National Examination Council and JSS infrastructure improvement. How Education ministry will spend Sh135b by Irene Githinji @gitshee The Ministry of Education yesterday gave a breakdown of how it would spend its Sh135 billion budget. However, the ministry maintains that it needs an additional Sh43 billion to cater for critical services during the next financial year. Speaking before the National Assembly Education Committee, the Principal Secretary in the ministry, Belio Kipsang said the Sh135 billion it has been allocated in the 2023-2024 financial year comprises Sh115.773 billion for recurrent and another Sh19.707 billion for development. The PS outlined that the Sh43b deficit was needed to bridge the deficit in key programmes like Free Day Secondary Education (FDSE) with at least one million learners at the risk of being left out if the money is not availed. Kipsang said the current enrolment of 3,938,109 at the rate of Sh22,244 gives a total requirement of Sh87.6 billion against the proposed allocation of Sh65.386 billion for FDSE which can only cater for 2,939,489 learners. “Some 998,620 learners are not covered under the FDSE programme. We need an additional Sh22.2 billion to fully cater for these learners,” explained the PS. Similarly, there are 20,066 Special Needs Education (SNE) learners in public secondary schools who require a top up capitation at the rate of Sh35,730 giving a requirement of Sh716.95 million against the provision of Sh200 million, Kipsang stated. Sh43b will be used to bridge deficits in key programmes like Free Secondary Education “The department is facilitating construction of Integrated Learning Resource Centres (ILRCs) and also an extra washroom in each school to reduce pressure on existing facilities,” the PS said. Development budget Construction of an ILRC and washroom, Kipsang stated, costs approximately Sh1.8 million and Sh500,000 respectively. In the 2023/2024 budget, Sh3.379 billion has been allocated to cater for this cost and priority will be given to schools that are not close to public secondary schools. According to the PS, the Ministry requires an additional Sh42.043 billion and Sh1 billion under recurrent and development budgets respectively. The PS, however, stated that there is a notable increase in the recurrent budget of Sh9.089 billion from the current financial year to the next budget. According to the PS, the main areas of increase are Sh5.887 billion for capitation to junior school learners, Sh964 million for FDSE capitation and another Sh300 million to cater for quality assurance and standards. Similarly, Sh173 million will go towards supporting co-curricular activities, Sh444 million under Personnel Emoluments for recruitment of Quality Assurance and Standards Officers and Sh470 million for supply of sanitary towels. The PS also said that under the development budget, the department allocation reduced by Sh4.071 billion. “The main reduction was under the Secondary Education Quality Improvement Project of Sh8.912 billion, which is scheduled to end in the financial year 2023/24. However, the department received an additional Sh4.7 billion for implementation of Kenya Primary Education Equity in Learning Program,” the PS explained. The department has proposed Sh940 million for sanitary towels, with the PS saying the programme provides seven packets to girls in Class 6, 7 and 8. At least Sh399 million has been proposed for co-curricular activities to cover regional, county and sub-county levels. The department said a proposed Sh335 million is to cover quality assurance and standard, which caters for the increased need for assessment as a result of CBC in pre-primary, primary, secondary and teacher training colleges. Kipsang said the basic education department will implement Bottom –Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) through automation of education systems. OPINION Page 11 East Africa political federation could be in the offing NEWS BEAT Page 12 How clerics shot down former AG’s plan to regulate churches POINTERS WEATHER TODAY Nairobi 23° Mombasa 28° Kisumu 27° Nyeri 22° Kitui 27° Wajir 35° Evaluating performance A member of media Complains Commission Henry Maina (left), Data Commissioner Immaculate Kassait (centre) and Media Council of Kenya chief executive David Omwoyo interact during media breakfast meeting in Nairobi, yesterday. The meeting brought together media personalities to discuss an overview of the Data protection Act, 2019 and highlights of key milestones the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner has hit since inception. PD/GERALD ITHANA

Wednesday, May 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY NEWS BEAT 3 by Alvin Mwangi @PeopleDailyKe The old, rickety and rusty Nairobi City County pick-up trucks that have terrorised hawkers and city residents since the 1980s have finally been decommissioned. Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja yesterday permanently engaged the parking gear of the infamous vehicles that had become synonymous with the terror that County Inspectorate officers rained on city residents and hawkers, finally bringing the ignominious career of the Mitsubishi pick-ups to a screeching halt. Speaking at the flagging off ceremony of 17 swanky Isuzu pick-up trucks yesterday, the Governor said the new fleet will help city county inspectors in their daily work and make their movements easier and more dignified. The governor said part of his election manifesto was to bring dignity to the capital city, including the services provided by the inspectors. “I must fulfill what I promised city residents. They will be served as customers. We said we want to give them dignity, but dignity starts with how we treat ourselves and how we treat you, the people of Nairobi,” said Sakaja. His speech brought to an end the old era when the dilapidated vehicles double-parked randomly in city streets or routinely drove on the wrong side of the road in hot pursuit of offending motorists, hawkers and others who had flouted city bylaws. “The other day I heard that you had apprehended people and the car got stuck, with prisoners inside. It’s a big embarrassment. I promise you that we will deal with them and phase them out. Very soon, you will not see them again,” Sakaja said. Interestingly, the governor said his initial offer to scrap metal dealers to bid for the ancient vehicles was still on the table. Although he said the vehicles will be put on sale soon, the county would not dispose them at a throw-away price. Even as he signaled the end of the old, he also warned the drivers of the new vehicles to use them to serve Nairobi’s people. The old vehicles were regarded more as a tool used by inspectorate staff to harass city residents. “These are tools to serve the people in our delivery, not to harass the people of Nairobi,” Sakaja said. “But,” he emphaGoing, going, gone! Old ‘Kanjo’ trucks driven off the road The era of dilapidated, battered, old vans came to a close yesterday with the commissioning of a new fleet of 17 vehicles Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja is joined by Senior County Executives when he flagged off a new fleet of vehicles to replace old county vans (below) outside City Hall in Nairobi yesterday . PD/ DAVID NDOLO 10 more bodies exhumed in Shakahola, three survivors rescued by Sophie Njoka and Harrison Kivisu @PeopleDailyKe The number of bodies exhumed from shallow graves in Shakahola yesterday rose to 211 after ten more bodies including those of two children were exhumed from the mass graves in the expansive land linked to cult leader Paul Mackenzie (pictured). Three more survivors were rescued in critical condition and taken to the Malindi district hospital. Coast Regional Commissioner Rhoda Onyancha confirmed those reported missing now stand at 610. At the same time, 93 DNA samples were collected from families still looking for their missing kin. “Just after taking a two day break, homicide detectives today exhumed ten more bodies among them two children. This brings the number to 211. At the same time, our officers managed to rescue three male adults in critical condition,” said Onyancha. Aiding suicide Pastor Mackenzie is being investigated for crimes including aiding suicide after allegedly convincing members of his Good News International Church to starve to death in order to meet Jesus. Yesterday, Mackenzie’s lawyer told People Daily his client has gone on hunger strike at the Malindi police station where he is being detained. The lawyer Wycliffe Makasembo said his client has refused to eat or drink anything during his detention to protest the “blatant” violation of his rights. He added that Mackenzie, who has been directly linked to the deaths of 201 people whose bodies were exhumed from mass graves on his 800 acre Shakahola ranch in Kilifi county, was determined to continue with the hunger strike until government agencies address his grievances. The lawyer at the same sensationally claimed that the bodies allegedly being exhumed from mass graves in Shakahola were in fact being smuggled out of mortuaries in the Coast region and buried at the ranch in order to implicate Mackenzie in the alleged murders. “We have credible information that government agencies in their efforts to build a watertight case against Mackenzie are now removing bodies from mortuaries and presenting them as having been exhumed from mass graves on the ranch, we have not seen the inventory of the bodies exhumed and the suspect has not been informed of the bodies so far, we only learn of the rising numbers through the media,” he said. The counsel further noted that the Commission of Inquiry that was formed by President William Ruto to investigate the Shakahola cult deaths was yet to involve Mackenzie nor his lawyers. sised, “the people of Nairobi must also obey the rules.” Although the now defunct Nairobi Metropolitan Services (NMS) had promised to buy 250 vehicles to replace the dirty and rickety pick-up trucks, the tenure of the team lead by General Mohammed Badi ended before it could fulfill that particular pledge. The team’s tenure started in August 2020 and ended in September last year. Sakaja was elected Nairobi governor in August last year, partly on the pledge of transforming the city, including by planting more trees and improving garbage collection. Part of the job of the city inspectorate is to ensure that this is done satisfactorily and that city residents observe city rules and bylaws. The new vehicles are expected to help the inspectorate staff in improving the mobility of the enforcement officers and ensure quality service delivery. Previous county administrations had also promised to replace the jalopies but never succeeded, partly because of budgetary constraints or lack of political will. Former Nairobi City Council Clerk Philip Kisia yesterday said that during his three-year tenure at the City Hall that purchasing new vehicles was not a priority as the council used to get only Sh2.9 billion from the national government to run its services. At the time, devolution had not become a reality. “We used the value model and every plan was only funded if it was going to add value to the people of Nairobi. Buying new inspectorate vehicles was not a priority then with the limited resources,” he said. Decommissioning of the old vehicles has, it appears, become a priority now and yesterday, the journey of removing them from the road started on high gear. SAKAJA These are tools to serve the people in our delivery, not to harass the people of Nairobi

by Herald Aloo @@heraldaloo) Civil servants are set to receive a fatter pay cheque from July following recommendations by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) that will translate to a higher budgetary allocation in the 2023/24 Budget. Documents tabled before the Departmental Committee on Finance and National Planning, which is led by Molo MP Kuria Kimani, the Treasury has allocated Sh17.7 billion to the salaries commission. The money will be used to clear pending job evaluations. Treasury and SRC are still in talks about the nature of the salary increment that civil servants will be given and once the deal is agreed on, the money will be released to various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). Should this be implemented, it will end a two-year freeze on salary reviews for civil servants, even as the increase comes on the back of a liquidity crunch that has hit the government leading to among others, a salary delay in March, as the government soaks pressure to contain a bloated public wage bill and large debt repayment obligations. “For public servants’ salary increment provisions, we have Sh17.7 billion, and this has been provided for the implementation of SRC job evaluation,” Treasury Principle Secretary Chris Kiptoo told the committee yesterday. Policy interventions This amount is part of Sh70.96 billion that the Treasury has allocated to meet key policy interventions under recurrent expenditure vote. In addition, there is also Sh2.1 billion set aside to clear contractual obligations to the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) that is in arrears amounting to over Sh7 billion. SRC froze salary increments for public servants in 2021 to allow the government to stabilise the economy owing to the shocks triggered by Covid-19. This has been recalled even though the country is still battling post-pandemic and other shocks, including prolonged drought and the Russia-Ukraine way. In February 2023, SRC chairperson Lynn Mengich announced that the commission was reviewing remuneration and benefits in the public service to align with Section 11 of the SRC Act, 2011, which has set a four-year review cycle. The first cycle covered the period between 2013 and 2017 and the second covered the years from 2017 to 2022 though the second face was never completed due to the Covid-triggered freeze in 2021. SRC had predicted in February that there might not be a significant change in salaries for most jobs but undertook the evaluation to develop the job grading structure. SRC is already undertaking far-reaching reforms in the payment of allowances by harmonising and rationalising perks across the public service. There are also plans to increase civil servants’ house allowances amid a surge in rental costs especially in Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru and Mombasa cities. Salary reviews In the six months to December last year, SRC had approved pay rise requests worth Sh2.18 billion. The requests included bonuses/rewards, salary reviews, allowances and Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs). The impending salary increment, if implemented, will come as a reprieve to the over 954,000 civil servants financially pressured by the tough economic situation that has pushed up the cost of living. Although the country’s inflation rate stood at 7.2 per cent as of April, down from 9.2 in December, this is yet to be felt by workers due to high food and fuel prices. The cost of living has burdened many Kenyans as school fees, rent payments, food and commodity prices, and transport costs have all gone up in the past two years yet salaries remained largely stagnant. Treasury PS Chris Kiptoo responds to questions before National Assembly Finance Committee, yesterday. PD/KENNA CLAUDE Treasury sets aside Sh17b for civil servants’ pay The move comes as a relief after SRC froze salary increments for all public servants in 2021, citing tough economic times 4 NEWS BEAT PEOPLE DAILY / Wednesday, May 17, 2023 A rise in public sector earnings could however spark agitation by private sector workers who could also push for pay increases to match their public service counterparts. During the recent Labour Day celebrations, President William Ruto announced a new salaries policy aimed at setting equal pay for workers in the public and private sectors. Salary delays for public sector workers between February and March hit civil servants but the situation is currently improving as the Treasury settles the arrear in batches. Pay delays, though not a phenomenon afflicting only civil servants, have always left them battling loan sanctions in addition to affecting remittance of statutory deductions, such as retirement savings. Despite the plans to increase salaries, President Ruto has said that his government will not borrow to meet public sector salary payments, which consumes almost half of all government revenues. He said on Sunday that it was preferable for the government to delay salaries than to borrow to pay its workers. With the Budget more likely to pass than not when it is table in Parliament next month, Kenyans must now brace for more tax pain to finance the Sh3.6 trillion spending plan, after President William Ruto decried the country’s low revenue to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio relative to her peers. In an interview last Sunday, President Ruto expressed concerns over the low revenue-to-GDP ratio, indicating that the country may face higher taxation in future. Tax revenue He said that Kenya’s tax revenue currently stands at 14 per cent of GDP, significantly lower than other nations such as Morocco, Tunisia and South Africa, which have ratios exceeding 20 per cent. “I want to tell my countrymen and women that we are not over-taxing ourselves. When Kibaki came to power we were collecting about Sh200 billion. When he left, we were collecting about Sh800 billion,” Ruto said. “The real issue is that our tax as a percentage of GDP is still way below what our peers have.” His statement comes at a time when some Kenyans are concerned over their tax obligations since they are grappling with a high cost of living and higher taxation, as proposed in the Budget statement, will erode their take-home income. The opposition Azimio One Kenya Coalition Party has already said it will mobilise its MPs to vote against the Finance Bill. SALARY FREEZE SRC froze salary increments for public servants in 2021 to allow the government to stabilise the economy owing to the shocks triggered by Covid-19 . However, the impending salary increment could be a reprieve to the over 954,000 civil servants financially pressured by the tough economic situation that has pushed the country’s inflation rate to 7.2 per cent as of April. Ruto nominates Haji to replace Kameru as Kenya’s next spy master by Zadock Angira @PeopleDailyKe Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Noordin Haji was yesterday nominated by President William Ruto for the post of Director General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS). “It is notified that His Excellency the President, has in accordance with Section 7(1) of the National Intelligence Service Act nominated Mr Noordin Haji for the appointment as the Director-General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS),” the Chief Of Staff and Head of Public Service Felix Koskei wrote. Haji (pictured) returns to the NIS after a six-year sojourn as the DPP. “Before becoming the nation’s apex public prosecutor, Mr Haji served as the Deputy Director of Counter Organised Crime Unit within the National Intelligence Service,” Koskei said Haji, who has been behind the withdrawal of several cases, will now be the principal advisor to the President and government on national security, responsible for the overall management and administration of the Service, and participate in the formulation of national intelligence policy and strategy. The President chairs the National Security Council (NSC), a body established under Article 240 of the Constitution, to exercise supervisory control over national security organs. The council consists of Cabinet Secretaries for Defence, Foreign Affairs, and Interior, Chief of Defence Forces, DG NIS and the Inspector General of Police. Haji, who will enjoy security of tenure, replaces General Philip Kameru who has retired after his term was extended by then President Uhuru Kenyatta. Since he took over, Ruto has made changes in the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), National Police Service, and the DCI among others. Before his election, Ruto had said he also had issues with NIS but never directed his attacks at the person of Kameru. On June 8 last year, for example, UDA’s lawyer wrote a complaint letter to the NIS over remarks made by then Interior PS Karanja Kibicho who claimed an intelligence report had projected victory by Azimio presidential candidate Raila Odinga. Ruto termed the remarks reckless use of intelligence reports and sought a clarification whether the NIS boss had authorised the release of the information. The DG serves a term of five years, but can serve a maximum of two sequential terms. Kameru was appointed in August 2014 to replace Michael Gichangi.

Wednesday, May 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY NEWS BEAT 5 Livingstone Njuguna (MoH), Dr Charles Kariuki Chege (MoH), Justus Kinoti (Kemsa), Cosmas Rotich (Kemsa) and Anthony Chege (Kemsa). The sackings came as anti-corruption detectives camped at Ramadhani’s office as they searched for documents related to the ‘Covid heist’ during which hundreds of millions of taxpayers money is believed to have been lost through irregular deals. On Monday evening, EACC through its spokesperson Eric Ngumbi confirmed the raid at Kemsa, saying the agency had launched investigations into allegations of irregular award of Tender No GF ATM MAL NFM 2022/23 OIT-02 for the supply of long lasting insecticidal nets by Kemsa. Covid pandemic scam echo The investigations commenced just hours after President Ruto promised to take action into the scandal that rocked the previous administration at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic when suppliers were paid millions of shillings in suspect drug transactions. Earlier, the President had convened a meeting to discuss the crisis at Kemsa, a day after he promised to clean up the agency. The tender dispute was indeed ignited by the sacked PS who had questioned the inconsistency in specifications for long lasting insecticide treated nets. Mburu had noted that the advertisement by Kemsa was missing some specifications when compared with the original specifications that were shared by her ministry. “The purpose of this letter is to ask Kemsa to rectify the error and fast track the procurement process to ensure timely delivery and distribution of the nets to protect the population at risk of malaria,” read the letter by the PS. Documents in our processions show that it was Ramadhani who wrote to the ministry seeking the extension of the award of the tender a move which was opposed by the Global Fund. briefly Uasin Gishu county government is on the spot after a mother was filmed while giving birth at Ziwa Sub County Hospital sparking a public outcry in the region. It is yet to be established who took the video, shared widely online, drawing the anger of players in the health sector and members of the public. Preventive and Promotive Health Chief Officer Joyce Sang yesterday visited the facility in Soy sub county and held a crisis meeting where she said investigation have already been launched to establish those behind the recording of the clip. “Those found culpable will be dealt with firmly. We call on the community to observe the soberness and ethics of the hospital. The unfortunate incident has lowered the self-esteem of mothers,” said Ms Sang. The official said the devolved unit will install CCTV cameras to enable the tracking of the time a patient stays in the facility, drugs, and the number of staff as well as provide screens in the patients’ wards to secure their privacy and safety during treatment. “We are committed to coming up with strategies to ensure that our people have access to adequate medical care,” said Sang. - Wycliffe Kipsang Outcry after video of mum giving birth shared online by Anthony Mwangi @PeopleDailyKe A day after President William Ruto sacked a Principal Secretary and suspended the board of the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (Kemsa), the Global Fund which is at the centre of the mosquito nets scandal yesterday reinstated the Sh12 billion tender. The fund through its Kenya coordinating mechanism has advertised tenders worth Sh54 billion tenders to cover the fight against Malaria, HIV and Tuberculosis for the next three years. The funds utilisation period is between July 1, 2024, to June 30 2027. “For the past 21 years, the Global Fund has worked with partners around the world to fight HIV/Aids, Tuberculosis and Malaria including strengthening health and community systems. Based on the Global Fund Board’s decision in December 2022 on the funding available for the 2023-25 allocation period, Kenya has been allocated US$392,989,068 for HIV, Tuberculosis, Malaria and building resilient and sustainable systems for health (RSSH). Kenya is also eligible for additional catalytic matching funds totaling to $15 million,”read the advertisement published in yesterday’s edition of MyGov, the government weekly advertising publication. President Ruto on Monday cracked the whip at the scandal-ridden agency, firing the Principal Secretary at the State Department of Public Health Dr Josephine Mburu and the entire board. He appointed former Principal Secretary Irungu Nyakera as the new board chair, replacing the incumbent, former Keiyo South MP Daniel Rono, and reconstituted the board with Hesbon Oyieko Omolo, Bernard Kipkirui Bett, Dr Jane Masiga and Jane Nyagaturi Mbatia as the new board members. He further appointed Dr Andrew Mutava Mulwa as the new Kemsa chief executive, replacing embattled Terry Kiunge Ramadhani who was suspended during the purge. “The president has been briefed on the complaints of alleged impropriety within Kemsa in its management and administration of various medical programmes,” read a brief signed by Public Service Head Felix Koskei. “The complaints follow the regular verification of expenditure by the Global Fund with regard to the National Malaria Program that targets millions of low-income Kenyan households within our nation’s malaria endemic regions. Treated mosquito nets The alleged maladministration on the part of Kemsa is with regard to the procurement of treated mosquito nets for those vulnerable households, which could have led to significant exposure to the disease and increase its severity in the endemic regions.” Those suspended alongside Ramadhani included Kemsa and Health Ministry staff—Martin Wamwea (MoH), Lenson Kariuki (MoH), Dr Pauline Duya (MoH), Global Fund reinstates Sh54b net tender Fund’s local players advertised Sh54b worth of tenders to cover the fight against Malaria, HIV and TB Kenya Medical Supplies Authority offices in Nairobi. PD/FILE Ruto off to SA for Pan-African parliamentary climate summit by Anthony Ng’ang’a @PeopleDailyKe President Ruto jetted out of the country yesterday afternoon for South Africa where he is to give the key note address in the Third Pan African Parliamentarians Summit on climate change. This is in his capacity as the chair of the committee of African Heads of States and Government on Climate Change (CAHOSCC). “Kenya remains a strong actor in the Pan African Parliament, and President Ruto’s address to the parliament reaffirms Kenya’s dedication to climate action,” said a release from State House spokesperson Hussein Mohamed. It added; “this demonstrates Kenya’s commitment to fostering consensus among African nations on vital agenda items that profoundly affect the lives and future of the African people and nations.” Kenya seeks a build up from the 3rd PAP climate summit towards the inaugural African Climate action summit that will be held in Nairobi early September. The Nairobi summit will seek to propel the African continent “from a passive victim to an active participant in climate change solutions” according to the release from State House. This build up aligns well with the 3rd PAP Climate Change which seeks to catalyze broad support for pro poor, just and equitable science based decisions on climate change according to the African Union. GLOBAL FUND TENDER The Global Fund which is at the centre of the mosquito nets scandal yesterday reinstated the Sh12 billion The sackings came as anticorruption detectives camped at Ramadhani’s office as they searched

6 NEWS BEAT PEOPLE DAILY / Wednesday, May 17, 2023 by Rawlings Otieno @PeopleDailyKe Azimio la Umoja leaders yesterday threatened to mobilise Kenyans to reject the Finance Bill, 2023 if MPs fail to shoot it down in Parliament. Led by Opposition leader Raila Odinga, the Azimio team which included Narc Kenya leader Martha Karua and her Wiper counterpart Kalonzo Musyoka accused the Kenya Kwanza government of setting out to push the bill through the National Assembly without any changes. “We make it clear that if this Bill is railroaded through Parliament, Kenya Kwanza must prepare that we will have no option but to mobilize citizens around the country to fight for themselves and take all the necessary political actions to stop this blow and burden,” warned Raila. Raila termed the bill, which proposes amendments to various tax statutes including the Income Tax Act, Value Added Tax, Tax Procedures Act and the Miscellaneous Fees and Levies Act, as too punitive. Addressing a press briefing at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Foundation (JOOF) in Upper Hill, Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Coalition leaders led by Raila Odinga charged that the Bill should be rejected in its entirety as it would hurt the already overburdened citizens. Ripe for tax reform “We restate that for Azimio, this Bill remains a big no. It is our position that this Bill does not qualify as a just tax system. The country is ripe for tax reform but this is not one of them,” said Raila. He further argued that the proposals outlined in the bill cannot address poverty, saying that instead, it seeks to manufacture and distribute poverty. “This proposal does not spur economic growth or generate wealth so that every family in this country can have opportunities. It traces and kills those opportunities. As the Bill attacks the poor, it dismantles the middle class too,” he said. The Finance Bill 2023 proposes an introduction of 16 per cent Valued Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products as well as the introduction of withholding tax on payments made in respect of digital content monetization. Revision of taxes The Bill currently before the National Assembly also proposes the revision of the rate of tax applicable to the permanent establishment (PE) of a foreign entity and the introduction of a tax on repatriated income of the PE. IT also proposes an increase of the marginal tax rate applicable to employees from 30 per cent to 35 per cent and a requirement to deposit security of 20 per cent of disputed tax before appealing against a judgment to the High Court. On Sunday President William Ruto, defended the introduction of three per cent employee and employer contributions to the National Housing Development Fund. But according to Raila, the Finance Bill 2023 unfairly punishes the middle class which is already suffering and cannot afford to pay more taxes, adding that the most tangible result of the Bill will be the incorporation of more Kenyans into the ranks of the poor. While demanding a major surgery to the Finance Bill in the interest of the suffering people of Kenya, Raila asked Kenya Kwanza to address the economy’s many structural shortcomings. “There is a reason why the Kenya Revenue Authority is unable to meet its revenue targets. Kenya Kwanza must figure out and address the problem. The cash flow problem in the country is due in part to the weakening of the Kenyan currency,” he said. He argued that the rise in the price of fuel and the continuing fall of the shilling means the cost of everything goes up, again. Raila stated that Kenya Kwanza administration must strengthen and not undermine critical institutions such as those tasked with fighting corruption, collecting revenue and investigating and prosecuting Raila’s fresh threat to mobilise Kenyans to reject Finance Bill Opposition leader accuses ruling Kenya Kwanza of resolve to push through bill without any changes Azimio leader Raila Odinga addresses the media in Nairobi yesterday while flanked by the coalition leaders. PD/PHOTO CREDIT RAILA ON FINANCE BILL The Opposition boss said several proposed tax measures will have a significant negative impact on the taxpayers. Bill has come under sharp criticism as Kenyans wants the bill to pass through public participation. crimes as it is presently doing. He further proposed that Kenya Kwanza must incorporate all productive citizens into its nation-building projects, adding that the regime has alienated a huge section of the population who see themselves as outsiders and strangers in their own country. “Kenya Kwanza must rationalize public expenditure. It must live within its means, instead of spending money it does not have on programs and projects the country does not need. They must address the public concern that even as taxes rise on everything and for everyone, there is no clear plan to spend new tax revenues on welfare programs for the poor. Instead, those taxes will only stoke inflation and hurt the purchasing power of poor families.” State propaganda Raila recalled that Azimio had warned that despite all State propaganda, trying to ease the supply shortage of maize and lower its costs through duty-free imports would not work and prices would not come down. Instead, he charged that to ensure the subsidy is passed on to consumers, the government would have to agree with traders on a formula on various margins and costs, adding that such negotiations have failed as was expected. “If importation is to lower the market price of maize, the volume of imported maize would have to be massive. Reports indicate that not many importers took the offer. The net effect is that the price of ‘unga’ has not come down. Instead, they are set to rise, again.” He went on: “Because Kenya Kwanza essentially sees Kenyans as its beast of burden, even this darkening scenario has not been able to persuade the regime to seek middle ground on the Finance Bill.” “The Kenya Kwanza hubris has kicked in. The top leadership of the Kenya Kwanza regime in Parliament and the Executive have said the Finance Bill will pass as it is. They have said not even a coma shall be removed.” “It is clear the so-called public participation being invited is a mere charade and a gimmick to give Kenyans false hope before they are hit with the Tsunami of taxes beginning July. Already President Ruto had said that the three percent housing levy to be deducted from basic salaries is mandatory patriotism while his National Treasury Cabinet Secretary Prof Njuguna Ndungu opined that Kenya Kwanza is hiking taxes to catch up with neighbours. Colombian veep tours State House President William Ruto, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Colombia’s Vice President Francia Mårquez at State House Nairobi. The two countries agreed to explore and broaden new areas of trade, investment and partnership. Ms Marquez’s rise to the top echelons of power in 2022 exposed the hidden racism that persists in Colombia, where nearly 9 percent of the 50 million people are of African descent. She played a key role in President Petro’s election and is one of Times magazine’s 100 People of the Year for 2022. PHOTO REBECCA NDUKU/PCS BRIEFLY Shinyalu and Ikolomani MPs have embarked on a drive to unite constituents to attain equal development. Fred Ikana of Shinyalu and Benard Shinali of Ikolomani said their respective Isukha and Idakho sub-tribes should begin working together to form a formidable development bargain bloc in Kakamega. They said the sub-tribes of the Luhya community were like Siamese twins only separated by constituency borders. “Bisukha and Bidakho are one and the same and that is why they originally belonged to same Ikolomani constituency. The borders should not thus divide us and that is why we shall be doing common development projects meant to benefit both constituencies,” said Ikana. Added Shinali; “If you see my brother Ikana in parts of Ikolomani when I am not present just know he is at home and representing our common interests. Likewise when I am in Shinyalu.” - Dennis Lumiti Kakamega MPs bid to unify communities

Wednesday, May 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY NEWS BEAT 7 Court drops a Sh1.2b case against the politician and charges afresh two men over the insurer’s property by Alphonce Mung’ahu, Gidraph Mwangi and Bernice Mbugua @PeopleDailyKe Two Sh2.7 billion land cases involving politician Jimi Wanjigi and the national health insurer have returned to haunt former Director of Criminal Investigations barely eight months after he was hounded of office. In one of the cases, Kinoti is in the spotlight after the Sh1.2 billion land fraud case against Wanjigi was dropped just a day after two other men were charged with conspiring to defraud the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) a parcel of land in Karen, Nairobi. Despite the evidence available from the Ministry of Lands, Government Printer, and the Registrar of Companies, Kinoti still recommended that Wanjigi be charged in court. Kinoti had also, in his investigation report, said that the Karen land belonged to Peter Leparkwo and not the NHIF. But an independent probe had established that Leparkwo and his accomplice had actually forged a title deed and altered computer data. Yesterday, a Nairobi Court allowed Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Noordin Haji to withdraw a Sh1.2 billion land fraud case against Wanjigi, his wife Nzisa and four others for lack of evidence. While dropping the criminal charges, the DPP through senior state prosecutor James Gachoka informed Milimani Senior Principal Magistrate Bernard Ochoi that there was no sufficient evidence to sustain them, as they were wrongfully prosecuted. After reviewing the evidence afresh, Haji said they found that Wanjigi and his co-accused persons should not have been charged instead they should have been treated as state witnesses in the case. Wanjigi, NHIF land tussles now return to haunt Kinoti Politician Jimi Wanjigi with his wife Irene Nzisa with their lawyer Willis Otieno at Milimani Law Courts where the DPP withdrew a case where they were to be charged alongside six others with conspiracy to commit a felony by forging a land title deed and land transfer documents of a parcel of land valued at Sh500 million in 1993. PD/CHARLES MATHAI Gachoka told the court that his decision was triggered by a letter from DCI boss Amin Mohammed dated on January 27, 2023 requesting him to peruse the file afresh as the witnesses in the case are the ones who had been charged while the suspects were walking free. “The DCI boss reviewed the evidence and did a comprehensive report to the DPP Haji on January 27 this year informing him that the witnesses in a criminal offence are the once who had been charged while the suspects had been Scot free,” Gachoka told the court. The court further heard that currently eleven people have been charged with conspiracy to defraud Wanjigi and his wife of their land worth Sh500 million. New twist They were charged on April 26, 2023 and the DPP claims the businessman and his co-accused person who charges have been dropped will testify in the case. Among those charged are Samuel Njuguna Chege, Henry Njoroge Njenga and Valentine Jelimo Kibire. Following the new twist in the matter, the DPP has urged the court to withdraw the charges against Wanjigi, his wife and their co-accused persons under Section 87 (a) of Criminal Procedure Code (CPC). Consequently, the magistrate allowed the DPP’s request to discharge Wanjigi and his co-accused persons. Wanjigi, Nzisa, John Nyanjua Njenga and Caroline Njoki, an advocate had been charged with obtaining Sh56 million from Kenroid Limited, by falsely pretending they were in a position to sell the company a 0.3314 hectare piece of land on General Mathenge road in Westlands, Nairobi. HIGHLIGHTS Yesterday, a Nairobi Court allowed Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Noordin Haji to withdraw a Sh1.2 billion land fraud case against Wanjigi, his wife Nzisa and four others for lack of evidence. Two other men were charged with conspiring to defraud the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) a parcel of land in Karen, Nairobi. Kinoti had also, in his investigation report, said that the Karen land belonged to Peter Leparkwo and not the NHIF. Pastor Ezekiel asks court to review orders by Bernice Mbugua @BerniceMuhindi Embattled pastor Ezekiel Odero now wants the Magistrate’s Court to review orders that froze his accounts and allow him to withdraw Sh50 million to enable him run his ministry and school. In a fresh application, Ezekiel also wants the court to review orders freezing his bank accounts from 30 days to fifteen days. Through lawyers Danstan Omari and Shadrack Wambui, Ezekiel claims the freezing of the said accounts has caused financial and logistical hardship to the operations of the school and his ministry New Life prayer Centre and church and Kilifi International School. “The bank accounts serve as a lifeline for numerous disadvantaged individuals, and the act of closing them would unduly burden these individuals, condemning them to endure significant hardships and struggles,” he says in court documents. He states that the orders prohibiting transactions of his accounts were obtained without the necessary transparency, as the court was not fully appraised of the ongoing litigation in Mombasa. The Magistrate court issued orders on May 8 freezing 28 accounts belonging to Ezekiel, his church and his school. In the new application, Ezekiel argues that the cash flow issues occasioned by the freezing of the accounts is causing a negative impact on the workers and students associated with New Life Prayer Centre & church and Kilifi international school. According to the Pastor, the bank accounts serve as a lifeline for numerous disadvantaged individuals, and the act of closing them would unduly burden these individuals, condemning them to endure significant hardships and struggles. by Nancy Gitonga @PeopleDailyKe Former Transport assistant minister John Harun Mwau (right) has lost a bid to be conferred with a presidential award and honour of first Class Chief of the Order of the Golden Heart of Kenya (CGH). This is after the Court of Appeal upheld the High Court’s finding that national honours were the prerogative of the President and he cannot be forced or compelled. While throwing out Mwau’s appeal, Justices Kathurima M’inoti, Imaana Laibuta and Ngenye Macharia said conferment of national awards is at the discretion of the president and is given to an individual as a way of recognising their performance and service to the nation. “Article 132(4)(c) has made it clear that conferment of national awards is the prerogative of the President, which he exercises in accordance with the Constitution and at his discretion. Hence, he reserves the powers to determine who is entitled to be conferred with an award,” said the judges. They endorsed the decision of the then High Court judge Isaac Lenaola that “there is no guarantee or automatic conferment of honours or awards to an individual and there is no such thing as class conferment of honours to individuals in a particular class, profession or office department.” Justice Lenaola had further held the eligibility criteria contained in the National Honours Guidebook 2004, there was no provision that an accession to the office of judge, MP or assistant minister was an automatic qualification for the conferment of any national honour or award. Mwau moved to Court on November 30, 2013 to compel then President Kibaki (now late) to confer him with awards, orders and decorations. He alleged that there was discrimination in the said con- ferment. Mwau contended that by a notice in the Kenya Gazette of December 11, 2008 to 2012, Kibaki published a list of persons upon whom award, decorations and medals had been conferred. According to the appellant, ministers, judges, assistant ministers and MPs were discriminated against. Historical injustices He argued that the discrimination was a culmination of historical injustices and with an ancillary purpose of ameliorating the effects of a long tradition of State’s violation of human rights and fundamental freedoms, which, if continue unchecked, would permeate into the social fabric and end up becoming a cancer in the society, thus promoting ethnicity and societal conflicts. Mwau argued that some individual Judges, Magistrates, Assistant Ministers and Members of Parliament, including himself, who were eligible and whose rights to be conferred with medals, honours and awards had accrued, have been denied that right. He added that the act of denying those individuals the accrued rights and conversely to award the same to others in similar situations, amounted to unequal treatment, was unfair, discriminative and was done in bad faith and in violation of the Constitution. Mwau said the National Honours Guidebook 2004 established elaborate structures on the eligibility for conferment of honours and awards. He said the book was the sole source of government policy in that regard. Mwau claims between 2008 and 2013, only five judges had been awarded the First Class honour and award of the Order of the Burning Spear (CBS). Mwau loses attempt to be conferred with presidential honours

8 PEOPLE DAILY / Wednesday, May 17, 2023

Wednesday, May 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY 9

10 PEOPLE SPEAK PEOPLE DAILY / Wednesday, May 17, 2023 Sunday evening, President William Ruto granted the media a three-hour interview at State House from where he left Kenyans more confused than they were ahead of the conversation. That was the second time the Head of State was talking directly to the public through the media. Unfortunately, the President – known and respected for his eloquence and sharpness of mind – came out of the two interviews less than convincing. Obviously, he will need to do more. Right from the beginning, the President has appeared to be restless and in a hurry. In the process, he has come up with many initiatives which, though well-meaning, have not gone down well with the populace. The Hustler Fund, the Affordable Housing programme and a myriad other proposals made by the President, have left Kenyans asking more questions for which they get answers that are far from satisfactory. Of course, it is very positive for the Head of State to subject himself to public scrutiny through media interviews. That is a positive step which his handlers must be congratulated for and encouraged to sustain. They can even make it routine to the extent of holding one interview quarterly, that is once in four months. Ruto’s problem has nothing to do with economics. It has everything to do with the manner in which he is popping up one suggestion after another as well as the way in which he is conducting himself to explain his actions. It is quite noticeable that no single Cabinet Secretary is coming out to frequently talk to Kenyans on issues relating to their dockets. The President has been left to explain everything and anything anywhere all the time. That is gnawing at the trust and confidence the electorate has in him. There is no doubt the President is a hard worker. A hard worker he could be. But he similarly needs to have a hard working Cabinet. Instead of leaving Ruto to talk economics in church every Sunday, his ministers should take advantage of the media to reach out to the public on elements within their respective portfolios. Owing to the many daily challenges in their ministries, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki, his Education counterpart Ezekiel Machogu, Ababu Namwamba of Youths and Sport and Moses Kuria of Trade, are more visible than the rest of their colleagues. But visibility does not necessarily mean performance. Thus, I am not in any way stating that they are the most hard working. To make President Ruto’s work less burdensome, maybe he should decree that every CS holds a media conference every fortnight while the Deputy President and Prime Cabinet Secretary do so monthly. In both of the President’s two interviews, he talked about many things but without clarity on any of them. He cannot afford to leap in the same direction next time he has another live media interview. So many things are wrong in the country today. That explains why the President has to be talking about each one of them. But he has to be convincing. Some of the things he talks about may require a lot of public participation before they are turned into policy. The three per cent housing tax (which the President calls contribution) is one such case. — The writer is the Revise Editor, People Daily —[email protected] —@kwayeram NELSON MANDELA If you want to make peace with your enemy, you have to work with your enemy. Then he becomes your partner. Exit of city’s pick-ups ushers in brighter era Yesterday’s decision by Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja to introduce new vehicles for the city inspectorate has been a long time coming. The old vehicles — which looked like they could infect those arrested by inspectorate staff with tetanus — were a terrible eyesore and ought to have been incinerated by this afternoon. Nairobi is a beautiful city. It is one of the best cities to live in the world. It has one of the most vibrant night scenes anywhere. It is one of two or three cities globally that have a national park within its boundaries. But it had the worst city inspectorate vehicles in municipal history. And not just in Kenya. Those vehicles were a terror to city residents, more so hawkers and other hapless souls who have fallen foul of council askaris, either for infringing on the long and rambunctious menu of misdeamenours — known and unknown — that city residents are always at risk of flouting with or without their knowledge. It is a good thing that they will no longer be double-parked in prime streets of arguably one of the three top global cities on account of being the only ones that host UN agencies. Indeed, it is not to be taken lightly that Nairobi is the only city in the global south to host a major UN agency. Such a city deserves — indeed demands — that it be policed using vehicles befitting that status. The only thing that Governor Sakaja has not done in this regard, and it is the hope of the People Daily that he will do this, is to donate one of those ailing beasts to either the national or railways museums to serve as a reminder of the depth this once green city can sink to if we fail to make it a home of pride under our collective watch. Never again in this capital must we allow such fear-inspiring monsters, that reek of disrespect for citizens from every broken grill, every worn-out tire, every jaundiced headlight, every flea-infested bench that, in all made the whole of each vehicle far much worse than the sum of its parts. Neither the city, nor its residents, deserved these caged cells that have given innocent people chills even when the capital was basking in its traditionally glorious sun. That they will never be fuelled again should send a signal that the city has crossed the Rubicon of bad governance, mismanagement, alienation of its residents and instead declared boldly that it is ready for a new future as a modern, liveable, sustainable, forward-looking city that is ready for business first with its own people and, ultimately, with the rest of the world. Ruto’s ministers have a lot of explaining to do THOUGHT OF THE DAY MUKALO KWAYERA The President has been left to explain everything and anything anywhere all the time. QUOTEDTODAY I must fulfill what I promised city residents. They will be served as customers. We said we want to give them dignity, but dignity starts with how we treat ourselves and how we treat you. NAIROBI GOVERNOR JOHNSON SAKAJA Some deficiencies are not reversible and have left the children with disabilities and low immunity against diseases. Observing a well-balanced diet for children is vital for healthy growth. NANDI COUNTY NUTRITIONAL OFFICER DOREEN TOO We can forcibly negotiate our debts like Ghana did. Show those that we owe a plan on how we can grow our economy. If that money is invested in production, then we might be able to save our economy in three years. BUSINESSMAN JIMI WANJIGI EDITORIAL A PUBLICATION OF MEDIAMAX NETWORK LIMITED KEN NGARUIYA: Group Chief Executive Officer MBUGUA NG’ANG’A: Managing Editor People Daily is published by MEDIAMAX NETWORK LIMITED at DSM Place, Kijabe Street, P.O. Box 24943, 00100 - Nairobi Tel: 0730144100; 0709824000; 0204944100 E-mail: [email protected] © Copyright 2023

SEND YOUR OPED TO: [email protected] Wednesday, May 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY PEOPLE SPEAK 11 It is said that only death and taxes are the only certainties. It was Benjamin Franklin whose letter popularized this claim although it had appeared much earlier in writings on politics and in a play. Franklin was talking about taxes in the contexts of politics, specifically the constitution of the US. Our Constitution allows the government to tax citizens. Taxes give the government revenue to pay for services, goods and development. It is nearly impossible to run a government without taxing the population. But what will the Kenya Kwanza regime gain from taxing Kenyans into poverty? Where does the government expect the citizens to earn income from which to pay taxes when the high taxes imposed on goods, services, businesses and incomes are eating away at all the income? There are taxes all over. Taxes on food. On clothes. On rent (landlords pays tax, which they pass on to tenants). Taxes on health and medical services. Taxes on books. Taxes on education, travel and transport and entertainment. Taxes from birth to adulthood to old age to death. These taxes are pushing more Kenyans into social misery. Parents can’t feed, clothe, educate, seek medical care for their children, or even pay school fees. We tax our children for being children. When the government taxes the basic goods that Kenyans with little or no money to spare have to buy everyday, then it is undermining its own economic agenda. But to make it worse, it is impoverishing people who are already struggling to make ends meet. Why is this regime, whose leaders promised poor Kenyans relief, serving them grief? Now the regime proposes to add a three per cent tax to fund affordable housing. For who is it building so-called affordable houses when Kenyans cannot afford food, clothes, or rent? When the administration declares that it will not reinstate subsidies that had cushioned Kenyans from the effects of Covid-19 and global economic crisis, and instead increases taxation on goods and services that the poor depend on, whose government is this? Does a government that comes up with such policies belong to hustlers or wabenzi, to use an old description? For wabenzis don’t feel the stress of the extra taxation on basic goods. The rich actually get richer when basic goods and services are taxed simply because they are the owners of the means of production. They own the factories and farms that produce the goods. Poor Kenyans work in these factories and farms. The rich own even the slums where the poor live. They have influence in the networks that control the provision of goods and services in poor neighborhoods. And they don’t suffer from the inevitable consequences of increased taxation including loss of jobs, poor pay, poor quality of life, insecurity, illhealth, depression or early death. The poor pay the ultimate price for increased taxation. Treasury is also proposing a range of taxes starting with PAYE increase to 35 per cent for those earning more than Sh500,000 from the current 30 per cent. As noted, PAYE goes from 10 per cent to 25 per cent and now is going to be topped at 35 per cent for big earners. The reality is much more simpler than all the talk from the Treasury. The bulk of PAYE taxes comes from the low and middle-income earners. People who earn more than Sh500,000 are the politicians and captains of industry and they pay zero tax. Besides, they have endless benefits from cars and housing to huge traveling allowances, none of which is taxable. But that is nothing compared to what they steal from the taxpayers. In the end, increased taxation will simply widen the socio-economic gap. Which is why Kenyans need to reject the Finance Bill 2023. More taxes will kill businesses, discourage investors, erase the little savings some Kenyans have, take away the meagre disposable income that a few remain with at the end of the month and chip away at all economic gains made in the past. Kenya Kwanza mandarins have to think harder about how to raise more money to fund their administration. It has to be creative about collecting more instead of inventing more taxes. It serves no economic purpose to push more citizens into poverty by increasing their tax burden. —The writer is the Executive Director of ODM East Africa political federation could be in the offing Kenya Kwanza promised relief but it’s serving grief The propensity for cooperation among East African states predates the era of self-rule in the three founding nations that formed the original East African Community in 1967. First, there was the 1917 Customs Union for Kenya and Uganda to which Tanganyika subscribed in 1927. Then there was the 1948-1961 East African High Commission followed by the East African Common Services Organisation founded in 1961. The original East African Community (EAC) was founded barely five years after the three founding states shook off colonial rule. In June 1967, President Jomo Kenyatta, Milton Obote and Julius Nyerere of Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania respectively signed the Treaty for East African Co-operation that then established EAC. The same is further confirmed by the fact that after the 1977 dissolution of EAC, the Permanent Tripartite Commission for the East African Co-operation was established in 1993 ostensibly to breathe life back to the momentarily failed partnership. Seven years later—precisely in 2000—Treaty for the Establishment of East African Community came to force and a new journey begun. Today, the additional partners who have since joined EAC to put nearly 300 million people under a single regional ambit outnumber the three founding states to make a total of seven. These are Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan and DRC. The founding fathers of the East African Community—forged in the likeness of the European Union—envisaged an integrated region whose citizens would be bound by a common destiny for the greater good of all. Buoyed by the nobility of that dream, Article 7 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community whose operational principles were meant to guide the pathway to a people-centred cooperation was forged. It was meant to ultimately give way to a grand political federation. It is in that spirit, that the national stakeholders’ consultations on EAC political confederation started its engagement with the public on May 8. This crucial milestone is meant to take us closer to the establishment towards a federation erected on a firm foundation based on ideas and propositions of the public. Public participation is an excellent way of securing true ownership of any process involving multiple stakeholders. Since the revival of EAC in 2000, great strides have been made towards implementation of various pillars of our regional integration. We have in place the Customs Union Protocol, EAC Common Market Protocol and the Monetary Union Protocol. Besides, the scaffolding of our political federation is, thankfully, taking shape apace. Significant progress has been recorded in our shared economic and social-cultural cooperation and more recently, enhanced cooperation in defence and interstate security. What is needed now is rigorous public awareness creation on the journey EAC is taking and what the potential gains for the citizens of the member states the political federation to secure widespread buy in across the region. Such awareness will help allay unhinged fears, suspicions and mistrust among EAC citizens and hasten onset of the federation. The EAC has entrusted its stakeholders’ consultative process to a team of eminent constitutional experts under the leadership of former Chief Justice of Uganda, Justice (Rtd) Dr. Benjamin Odoki with Kenya’s former long-serving Attorneys General Amos Wako, as his vice chair. The process already taken place in Burundi and Uganda. That team of regional constitutional experts comprises members drawn from all EAC partner states. It will engage Kenyans from all the 47 counties between May 8 and 27 on what type of constitution EAC should have for a political federation in all former provincial headquarters. Thereafter, it will sit in Nairobi to listen to other national stakeholders. Kenyans should take advantage of this opportunity and contribute in shaping the political destiny of a fully integrated EAC. — The writer is the CS for East African Community, Arid and Semi-Arid Lands and Regional Development ODUOR ONG’WEN Does a government that comes up with such policies belong to hustlers or wabenzi? REBECCA MIANO The founding fathers of the East African Community envisaged an integrated region. #TWEETS TO THE EDITOR / / / @PeopleDailyKe / / / People Daily STREET TALK Man tries to trade places with dog to avoid arrest A driver who was stopped by police in Colorado for speeding on Saturday night attempted to shift the blame by switching seats with his dog, putting his pet in the driver seat, police said. A police officer watched the entirety of the bizarre attempt unfold, witnessing the driver trying to put his pet behind the wheel as he maneuvered to the other side of the car, according to a Facebook post by Springfield Police in southeastern Colorado. The driver was then seen exiting the vehicle from the passenger side, before insisting that he had not been the one driving, police said. According to the police department, the driver showed clear signs of intoxication, and ran away when asked how much he had had to drink. The driver was apprehended within 20 yards of the vehicle, the police department added. Police found that the driver had two active warrants for his arrest, and he was booked into the Baca County Jail. He was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, driving while ability impaired, driving under suspension, speeding, and resisting arrest. The dog was given to an acquaintance of the driver to be looked after while the suspect was in jail, Springfield Police Department said. It added: “The dog does not face any charges and was let go with just a warning. “ —Agencies ODDLY ENOUGH TRUTHIS: In the drama of life, God is the director behind the scenes Wrong target? @gabrieloguda: Today’s papers are reporting that President William Ruto fired the wrong Principal Secretary yesterday. The Ministry of Health has two PSs and the one responsible for KEMSA is Eng. Peter Tum, in charge of State Department for Medical Services. We thank God for Gachagua. Next meal @AmwayiImbuye: One day Kenyans will have nothing left to eat than the people who sit in Parliament and State House. @ EzekielJumaboy @Aaroncheruiyot @KIMANIICHUNGWAH Freedom of worship @makaumutua: Learners will not be compelled to follow a school’s faith, court rules. I congratulate the learned judges on this wise and critical ruling. Dearth of diplomacy @ _MwalimuEric: Yesterday while taking lunch in the staffroom. My former classmate comes in and he’s amazed I did education. He tries to lecture me that teaching has no money. I just laughed it off and asked “unafanya course gani kwani” he was like *International diplomacy*.

12 NEWS BEAT PEOPLE DAILY / Wednesday, May 17, 2023 by Mercy Mwai @ wangumarci Security agencies have suffered a setback after a House committee rejected proposed amendments to the Prevention of Organized Crimes Act and the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) ACT. In a report tabled in the National Assembly, the committee on Administration and Internal Security say the amendments either contradict themselves, require substantive amendments or are unnecessary. On the Prevention of Organized Crimes Act, which has three amendments, the committee objected to the first amendment which proposes an increase of penalties related to obstruction of justice from Sh500,000 to Sh10 million. In their report, committee members note that there was no substantive reason or empirical data provided for the effectiveness of enhancement of penalties. It also said that for the amendments to pass, it would require them to be subjected to further debate and thus it was necessary to have them as a substantive amendment to the principal act instead of a miscellaneous amendment through an omnibus bill. Regarding amendments to the NPS Act, the committee rejected a proposal to increase the time within which NPSC submits its annual report from three months to nine months. The committee said no basis had been provided for increasing the time for submission of annual report. House committee rejects amendments to security laws How clerics shot down former AG’s plan to regulate churches rate consultative process had been carried out. The regulations were conceived at a time radicalisation of youths and their recruitment for violent and illegal activities had become an issue of national concern. Al-Shabaab terror attacks were also on the rise. The attacks include the Westgate Mall attack in 2013 and the April 2, 2015 attack on Garissa University College where the militants killed 148 students and security personnel. In the wake of the rise of radicalisation, Muigai had in 2014 slapped a moratorium on registration of religious organisations. The regulations were to help streamline churches and mosques. This was aimed at weeding out those Githu Muigai had sought to streamline the process of registration of religious organisations Make peace, ex-MP tells Ruto and Raila Three people die as truck, tuk tuk collide Former Marakwet West MP David Sudi (pictured) has urged President William Ruto and Azimio leader Raila Odinga to stop their political fights. “People are fighting for nothing. They should stand as statesmen and call off political fights. Ruto won the election and he should avoid engaging in political fights because he is the president and no one will take away his presidency,” he told the press at his office in Nairobi. Sudi, who is the leader of The New Democrats party, also urged President Ruto to seek advice from veteran politicians who served in presidents Daniel arap Moi and Mwai Kibaki administrations. “Ruto needs people from the Kibaki and Moi governments. He needs them because they have the wisdom that he requires to steer the country,” he said. On the high cost of living, Sudi advised president Ruto to restore food subsidies until the economy picks up. –Caleb Korir Two people died on the spot while one died at the Kilifi County Referral Hospital following a road accident at Kwa Kazuri area on the MombasaMalindi highway. The accident, involving a tuk tuk and a Nissan Canter, happened on Monday night. Kilifi OCPD Kenneth Maina said the tuk tuk, which was carrying six passengers and was heading to Tezo from Kilifi Town, collided head on with the truck. He said the driver of the canter was trying to overtake another vehicle at a high speed but collided with the tuk tuk. The tuk tuk driver and one of his passengers died on the spot while the other passenger died upon arrival at the hospital. The OCPD said the other three sustained injuries and were taken to Kilifi County Referral Hospital where two are still in critical condition and the other one is stable. - Ronald Mwadzombo Sand harvesters ruining Homa Bay roads, says KeNHA by Noven Owiti @PeopleDailyKe The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has raised concern over encroachment on road reserves in Homa Bay County. KeNHA said sand harvesting near highways was destroying roads in the county. The agency said areas where roads are frequently destroyed by sand harvesting activities include Karachuonyo, Suba North and Ndhiwa constituencies. Nyanza Regional Director Julius Makodero said besides destruction of roads, sand harvesting was also contributing to rise in accidents. Makodero said the agency plans to engage residents in a sensitization programme to change the trend. “We believe sensitizing residents is one of the ways of safeguarding roads and road reserves. The objective is ensure that people stop harvesting sand near the roads,” he said in Homa Bay town on Monday. Makodero was accompanied by Homa Bay County Commissioner Moses Lilan and Rongo and Busia weighbridges operations officer Maurice Ademba. “Let residents desist from all the activities that impede road development. We’re working closely with security officers and other agencies for effective monitoring to eradicate road destruction,” he added. BRIEFLY Former Attorney General Githu Muigai. PD/FILE by Rawlings Otieno @PeopleDailyKe Details have emerged of how President Uhuru Kenyatta administration had in 2015 put together stringent rules on the registration and regulation of religious organisations. The Societies (Religious Societies) Rules, 2015, conceived during the tenure of Prof Githu Muigai as Attorney General, were meant to control the registration of religious organisations but were rejected by the religious leaders on account they were punitive. According to the rules, which were last week submitted to the Senate ad hoc committee investigating cult deaths in Shakahola, the application for registration of a religious entity had to be accompanied by personal information about its leaders. Tax clearance The leaders had to submit a copy of the National Identity card, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) Personal Identification Pin (PIN), a passport photograph, a certified copy of the theological certificate from a duly registered and accredited theological institution, and a tax clearance or exemption certificate. “We believe had these regulations been in place, what is happening in Shakahola would have been avoided,” Maria Goretti, the Registrar General, told the committee which is chaired by Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana. But religious leaders rejected the proposed regulations even though an elabo148 The number of people killed in a terrorist attack at Garissa University College on April 2, 2015. who had exploited the law to commercialise places of worship and control mosques from being used as recruitment centres for terrorists. The proposals were shelved after Muigai came under attack from religious leaders. Under the current law, an association is registered once it has 10 people. But in Prof Muigai’s proposed regulations, a religious society would have required a membership of not less than 2,000 for it to be registered. Organisations seeking registration would have been required to submit a list of all its leaders, including a copy of their personal identification numbers, national IDs and passport photograph. Raila suit President William Ruto has attracted criticism from some religious leaders and politicians following the establishment of a commission of inquiry on the Shakahola deaths and a taskforce of religious organisations. Some critics opposed to the move argued that the decision by the President undermined independent constitutional commissions and offices in executing their mandate. Opposition leader Raila Odinga has gone to court to challenge the formation of the commission of inquiry, claiming that it was unconstitutional. He also alleges that the Kenya Kwanza administration cannot be relied upon to investigate the Shakahola deaths some powerful individuals close to the President are linked to the cult. In response to the Shakahola tragedy, the Senate, through a motion by Majority Whip Boni Khalwale (Kakamega), approved a motion setting up the ad hoc committee to probe the deaths. Some members of the Senate committee have claimed that the President’s decision to form the commission and task force was meant to undermine the work of Senators.

Wednesday, May 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY NEWS BEAT 13 dence of Parkinson’s disease. “If a bug is not harmful there is no need of using chemicals to kill it.” The specialist further says physical, occupational, and speech therapy are important in managing Parkinson’s even as patients continue to wait for a diseasemodifying treatment. He adds that patients must remain active by exercising. “There is a drug that helps elevate the levels of dopanine hormone in patients with Parkinson’s, because dopamine is usually low. There are treatments of auxiliary symptoms such as drooling, excessively going to the toilet, depression, and anxiety. Others are Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), which is expensive,” he says. People aged 60 years and above are at a by Muthoki Kithanze @PeopleDailyKe In late 2020, Josephine Nduta Kahingo, 52, noticed she was moving with a shuffling gait and her hands became stiff and sluggish. She reasoned the exertion of taking care of her 13-year-old daughter who has severe cerebral palsy was causing the symptoms. “I was treated for a nerve problem upon my first visit to the hospital and put on medication. Unfortunately, my health condition did not improve from this initial misdiagnosis. And as is our culture to visit ailing friends and family, my friends came to see me and upon seeing my condition connected me with a neurologist immediately,” says Josephine. After more than a year of incorrect diagnosis, Josephine, was finally given the correct diagnosis and prescribed Parkinson’s Disease (PD) medication that resolved the shuffling movement, stiff hands, and mask-like facial expression (hypomimia). Impact Despite being on medication to manage some of the symptoms of Parkinson, Josephine says the disease has upended her life to great degrees. “I cannot carry out tough house chores; my body sometimes becomes ‘loose’ or rigid all of a sudden, and my mind will sometimes just shut out. I have also become very fearful of falling,” says Josephine. She continues “I was in denial after the diagnosis because this is a lifelong disease that has no cure, I worry sometimes that the drug I use daily may run out.” Degenerative disease Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative disease that causes unintended or uncontrolled movements such as body tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. Parkinson’s happens when a part of the brain called the basal ganglia responsible for movements ceases normal functioning. Dr Juzar Hooker, a consulting neurologist at Aga Khan Hospital, says the most common symptoms of PD are stiff limbs, abnormal posture on the side, slowness of movement, and problems with controlling bladder and bowels. “At the moment, there is no cure for Parkinson’s Disease. About 5-10 per cent of Parkinson’s is genetics, but the majority of people diagnosed do not have a genetic cause of Parkinson’s. But they may have genes that put them at risk,” said Dr Hooker. He adds that studies have shown a link between exposure to insecticides and inciThe burden of living with Parkinson’s disease in Kenya Social stigma, rising prevalence and lack of scientific studies in SubSaharan Africa hamper development of proper medical interventions for the disease, the second leading neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer’s 5-10% About 5-10 per cent of Parkinson’s is genetics, but the majority of people diagnosed do not have a genetic cause of Parkinson’s 60 People aged 60 years and above are at a higher risk of developing Parkinson’s higher risk of developing Parkinson’s. The prevalence of PD in the country is not known, however, there are 8.5 million people in the world living with the disease according to data by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The WHO, however notes that disability and death due to Parkinson’s are increasing faster than any other neurological disorder. “Current estimates suggest that, in 2019, the disease resulted in 5.8 million disability-adjusted life years, an increase of 81 per cent since 2000, and caused 329,000 deaths, an increase of over 100 per cent since 2000,” reads WHO brief on Parkinson’s. Josephine says awareness of Parkinson’s is quite low in the country leading to mismanagement and stigma around the condition. “My initial misdiagnosis caused me to take a lot of drugs for the wrong disease. The general public needs to appreciate when they see someone exhibiting symptoms such as tremors and give them grace. For instance, our matatus should not rush people who have tremors or moving slowly,” she advises. Shortage of neurologists Josephine now lives a day at a time drawing strength and hope from her Christian faith. Peris Kilwake a former special needs teacher started being slow in her last year of retirement in 2016. Her knees became swollen and her hand began shaking. “I thought it was old age that made me feel like this, but it was not,” says Peris. Peris was eventually diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. To manage her condition she was put on a lifelong medication “It costs me Sh5,000 to see a neurologist and Sh3,000 for weekly medication,” said the retired teacher. She also adds that the shortage of neurologists creates constraints on the quality of services offered to PD patients. “We do not have a Parkinson’s disease nurse specialists in Kenya. Nurses can help patients and caregivers to navigate PD because the ratio of neurologists is low everywhere. A nurse can be an easy health personnel to access,” says Dr Hooker. Peris walks with difficulty and her ability to perform tasks is considerably stymied by body tremors. Grace Macharia, a speech and language therapist says that speech is an important element of therapy for patients with Parkinson’s. One of the leading comorbidities in PD is aspiration pneumonia,” The aspiration phenomenon means the food has gotten to the lung and cut the short supply of air. Speech therapy helps you know how to control your swallowing muscles to avoid getting aspiration pneumonia,” Macharia explained. To cope with PD, Peris is part of Parkinsons’ Support Group (PSG), which helps her wade through the murkiness of the disease. She encourages other patients and caregivers to be part of a support group for solidarity and exchange of relevant information. FUTURE TRENDS Parkinson’s disease is caused by a loss of nerve cells in part of the brain called the substantia nigra. This leads to a reduction in the hormone dopamine In future, we might rely on Artificial intelligence (AI) to pick up movements that are consistent with the symptoms of Parkinson’s, hence accelerating diagnosis. Identify the presymptomatic signs such as loss of smell and Rem sleep disorder will help identify people at high risk of the disease early. Josephine Nduta Unfortunately, my health condition did not improve from this initial misdiagnosis. DR Juzar Hooker There is a drug that helps elevate the levels of dopamine hormone in patients with Parkinson’s. Peris Kilwake It costs me Sh5,000 to see a neurologist and Sh3,000 for weekly medication. PARKINSON’S IN FIGURES 8.5 million; The global prevalence of Parkinson’s disease. The disease resulted in 5.8 million disability-adjusted life years in 2019, a 81 per cent increase since 2000. True global numbers are difficult to estimate owing to low rates of diagnosis and limited epidemiological evidence. Sh5,000 Average consultation fee charged by a neurologist. Sh3,000 Cost of weekly medication. 60- and above, age in which the risk for developing Parkinson’s is heightened. INFOGRAPHIC: PATRICK OKUNA 329,000 deaths caused in 2019, an increase of over 100 per cent since 2000. SEEKING MEDICAL INTERVENTION 12.9 million people will be affected by Parkinson’s disease by 2040. Prevalence rate of the disease has doubled in the last 25 years.

lion, up from Sh30.9 billion. It was weighed down by a slow growth in interest income that registered a 21 per cent growth to stand at Sh32.4 billion from Sh26.7 billion. The bank also raised its cover for nonperforming loans by 127 per cent to Sh3.1 billion from Sh1.4 billion as a cushion against a harsh operating environment. Net interest income increased by 12 per cent to Sh21.7 billion from 19.4 billion, while the group’s loan book rose 21 per cent to Sh756.3 billion from the previous period’s Sh623.6 billion, on the back of a rise in customer deposits, which grew by 23 per cent to Sh1.1 trillion up from Sh900.9 billion. The group’s costs increased by 46 per cent to Sh22.8 billion from Sh15.6 billion on staff costs, innovation and upgrading its technological infrastructure, similar to investment in debt securities which marginally rose by a percentage point to Sh392.5 billion from Sh389.4 billion. “Despite the current cost growth and continued investment in business transformation, there is an opportunity to focus on cost optimisation, efficiency pursuit and productivity gains to strengthen value, digitization and the business transformation which will lead to efficiency in the Group,” Mwangi said. During the review period, the group’s total interest expense increased from Sh7.3 billion to Sh10.8 billion. Regional subsidiaries Last year, the group marshaled loans worth $300 million (Sh34.7 billion) based on the London Interbank Offered Rate (Libor) from the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and its financiers for onward lending to its regional subsidiaries. “The interest variables have been rising across the developing and emerging markets. As the rate increases, expense increases as well. In this case the Libor increased from 0.25 per cent to 5.5 per cent, because Equity had pegged its loan at Libor +2.5 per cent,” explained Chokaa. MWANGI The lender weathered a turbulent macroeconomic environment to register a 21 per cent growth in total assets. Equity Group posts Sh12b net profit on high incomes by Noel Wandera @NoelWanderah Equity Group Holdings’ first quarter net profit for the period ending March 31, 2023 rose by 8 per cent to Sh12.8 billion, against Sh11.9 billion registered in 2022. Profit before tax grew by 10 per cent to Sh16.9 billion up from Sh15.3 billion. Group Managing Director and CEO James Mwangi attributed the performance a rise in non-funded income derived from fees and commissions that were collected from trade finance and forex receipts. The receipts grew by 57 per cent to Sh18 billion from Sh11.5 billion the prior period, contributing 45 per cent of the group’s total earnings. “Non-funded income continues to grow much faster than interest income, and that is the momentum that we intend to maintain,” Mwangi said during the group’s the quarter 1 2023 investor briefing event in Nairobi yesterday. Trade finance income Ronald Chokaa, a financial analyst with investment bankers Genghis Capital agreed with this view, reckoning that the skyrocketing of the non-funded income showed how the bank had matured its revenue channels. In the review period, gross trade finance income doubled to Sh2.4 billion from Sh1.2 billion, while trade finance guarantees and off-balance sheet volume grew by 39 per cent to Sh167 billion up from Sh120 billion. Further, Forex income registered a 160 per cent growth to Sh5.2 billion up from Sh2 billion. Mwangi said the lender weathered a turbulent macroeconomic environment to register a 21 per cent growth in total assets, which reached Sh1.5 trillion. “Funding the asset growth is a 23 per cent growth in customer deposits with the proceeds deployed to grow the loan book by 21 per cent,” he said. The lender’s total income grew at a moderate rate of 28 per cent to Sh39.7 bilAnalysts reckon that the surge in non-funded income showed how the bank had matured its revenue channels Microsoft has increased investment in the Africa Development Centre (ADC) by setting up Azure Active Directory Domain Services, a Microsoft Security product in Nairobi. Azure is a Sh5.48 billion ($40 million) yearly revenue generator with 300,000 enterprise global customers. It is part of the mission of the American tech company to advance tech skills and talent on the African continent through its office in the capital. Microsoft ADC Managing director Catherine Muraga said the increased investment in the centre demonstrates the company’s faith in the existing talent at the centre. “Not only do we want to grow product ownership within ADC, but we also want to develop more experts in the field. This is an opportunity to highlight the ADC’s growth and impact,” said Muraga who, as the Engineering Director, will lead the teams that will be working on the product. Azure Active Directory Domain Services is a group of features that enable Microsoft customers to create and manage their organizations identities on Azure cloud services. These identities enable customers to transfer or operate software applications that are run from their physical servers to Azure cloud services. –Mathew Ndung’u BAT Group has expanded operations for its Kenyan regional office to cover Southern Africa and will be headed by Crispin Achola, who becomes the cluster head for BAT East and Southern Africa. The market consolidation means the Eastern Africa regional office that is based in Nairobi has been expanded to over 20 countries including Malawi, Mozambique, Angola, Zimbabwe and Zambia. According to Mimi Mavuti, Head of Business Communication and Sustainability for BAT Kenya and East and Southern Africa said the move enhances Kenya’s profile as a major commercial hub and Africa’s business capital. “The BAT regional office in Nairobi will have oversight of over 20 markets in East and Southern Africa, including Uganda, Rwanda, Mauritius, La Reunion, Malawi, Mozambique, Angola, Zimbabwe and Zambia,” Mavuti said. Crispin Achola (pictured), the current Managing Director for BAT Kenya, will assume an expanded mandate as Cluster Head, BAT East and Southern Africa Markets, overseeing more than 20 markets, Mavuti indicated in a statement yesterday. –Noel Wandera Microsoft relocates cloud security product to Nairobi BAT expands East Africa regional hub operations BRIEFLY Competition watchdog enters deal to boost cross-border trade by Lewis Njoka @PeopleDailyKe Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) and the East African Community Competition Authority (EACCA) have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to enhance regional integration and cross-border trade and investment. The MoU lays out modalities through which the agencies will mitigate competition infringements with cross-border effects as well as foster transparency and predictability with regard to multijurisdictional merger notifications. Further, the agreement facilitates information sharing particularly during joint investigations, market inquiries and studies, which shall be prioritised so as to safeguard the competition process and protect consumers in the region, while respecting respective laws and policies. “It is incumbent on competition regulators within the Community to cooperate and collaborate with the aim of implementing a coherent regulatory framework that is supportive of investments, while purposely extinguishing harmful anti-competitive conduct,” said CAK acting Director General, Adan Wario (pictured). By the end of December 2024, the two agencies have committed to, among others, review and streamline their merger notification guidelines, develop and implement an information sharing framework for cross-border infractions, and review various complementary regulations and guidelines to ensure they are fit for purpose. EACCA Registrar Lilian Mukoronia said the initiative will help shape future collaborations among national agencies in the East African Community. 14 BUSINESS HUB FOR MORE NEWS VISIT: www.pd.co.ke / www.epaper. pd.co.ke Wednesday, May 17, 2023 From left: Equity Group Managing Director and CEO, Dr James Mwangi, Group Director, Strategic Partnerships, Collaborations and Investor Relations Brent Malahay and Equity Bank Rwanda MD Hannington Namara during the investor briefing event.

Wednesday, May 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY BUSINESS HUB 15 by Steve Umidha @UmidhaSteve The question of whether the shilling is showing no further signs of weakening or will continue on a free fall against the US dollar draws mixed reactions depending on who one talks to. Since the onset of Covid-19 in March 2020, the local currency has flirted with every global economic shock as it continues to search for direction. BMI Research, for instance, an affiliate of Fitch Solutions that provides macroeconomic, industry and financial market analysis predicted in April that the shilling will depreciate by 13.5 per cent against the US dollar, closing the year at Sh140. “We project that the Kenyan shilling will depreciate by 13.5 per cent against the US dollar in 2023, closing the year at Sh140/USD,” says the firm in its Q2 macroeconomic update, further noting that the inflation – which slowed last month to 7.9 per cent, is likely to remain elevated in 2023, averaging 7.5 per cent. That fall, which has been consistent for several months now, coupled with challenges in accessing dollars, has seen investors flee the Nairobi Securities Exchange, according to Absa Bank Kenya, which on its part, sees the shilling hitting Sh150 against the US dollar by the end of the year. “The trend will keep on for the rest of this year. This year, as much as inflation is expected to ease heading towards the statutory level, we forecast the shilling to continue weakening on the backdrop of steady interest rates which are already on post-Covid highs,” said the Head of FICC Research and Chief Economist for Absa Bank Kenya, Jeff Gable. Same fears were also shared by Safaricom Chair Adil Khawaja last week when responding to queries on share price, to which he gave an indication that there could be additional issues with dividend repatriation for foreign investors that relate to dollar availability. “There has been some difficulty in taking the dividends out, which then puts a Experts split over shilling performance by year end BMI Research, for instance, predicted in April that the currency will depreciate by 13.5pc against US dollar, Row looms between closing the year at Sh140 Kenya, Uganda over milk export permits TRADE: Dairy processors from Uganda have accused the Kenya government of denying them permits to expert dairy products. Uganda Dairy Development Authority (DDA) confirmed that Kenyan authorities have reduced the number of export permits being issued to Uganda’s powdered milk. The claim by the Authority comes about four months after Kenya and Uganda agreed that a ban on agricultural produce be lifted as part of improving trade relations between the two countries. Powdered milk Kenya dairy industry is experiencing increased milk production two months after the onset of long rains. Samson Akankiza, executive director of DDA said at the weekend that Kenyan authorities have reduced issuing permits for powdered milk by about 20 per cent. “I don’t have figures offhead but the reduction is about 20 per cent. Other products are getting permits except milk powder but the market is still open and Uganda milk players are exporting products there,” said Akankiza. The claimed reduction on export permits contradicts a lift of agricultural produce from Uganda by the President William Ruto government in early February this year. Kenya’s Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria met Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni where the two discussed ways on improving trade relations between the two neighbours. “We move towards the tripartite free trade agreement and the merger of EAC, Comesa and SADC, Kenya and Uganda will walk that journey together and ultimately into the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFTCA),” Kuria said after meeting Museveni. Former administration under Uhuru Kenyatta slapped the ban on the products in 2021. Last month Cooperative and Micro and Small Enterprise Cabinet Secretary Simon Chelugui recently stated that the government will spend significant resources to mop up expected increased milk due to the ongoing long rains. Chelugui stated that the New Kenya Cooperative Creameries (NKCC) recently received Sh0.7 billion under the 2022/23 supplementary budget which is part of Sh3.8 billion earmarked to finance the upgrading of the company in the current and 2023/24 financial year. “We recently got approval from the cabinet to continue modernising the NKCC as part of ensuring locally produced milk is well managed. So far the government has finished rehabilitating Dandora, Kitale and Kigannjo processing plants,” the CS said. – Nicholas Waitathu little bit of pressure on some of the funds that are holding these shares,” he said. Several reasons have been floated on why the shilling has performed so badly this year, including interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve Bank of the United States, a situation that has resulted in the US dollar rising in value relative to other currencies, including the shilling. Balance of payments Genghis Capital in March said it expects the shilling to trade as low as 161.40 per dollar by year-end on dwindling foreign-exchange reserves, and a deteriorating balance of payments. But Charlie Robertson, global chief economist at Renaissance Capital in his predictions to African Business, says a “worst-case scenario”, which would involve the government defaulting on its debt, “could send the shilling weakening to 20-30 per cent below its long-term average rate of 168-182/$ by the end of 2023.” The local currency depreciated by 0.4 per cent against the dollar, closing the week ended on May 7, 2023 at Sh136.4, from Sh135.9 recorded a week earlier. It closed the week at Sh134.58. On a year-to-date basis, the shilling has depreciated by 10.5 per cent against the dollar, adding to the 9.0 per cent depreciation recorded in 2022. Concerns remain high on the future performance of the shilling given the current pressures as well as the dwindling country’s forex reserves and the rising debt level – whose servicing is projected to increase by 34 per cent in the year 2023 from Sh930.35 billion to Sh1.25 trillion. Economic experts like Peter Macharia who also runs a digital lending firm Jijenge Credit ltd, shares the same pain and frustration, but he’s upbeat about a possible flip-up in the currency performance in the coming months. “Usually, across the globe, a strong dollar makes a bad situation worse for the rest of the economies, especially developing markets like ours. But I would expect things to improve in the coming months based on the fiscal policies being executed by the government through the Finance Bill,” he adds. That optimism springs from recent sentiments by the Energy Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir, who is convinced that the US dollar-shilling rate should ease soon to below 130 from its current levels as a result of the Government-toGovernment oil deal. by Christine Musa @PeopleDailyKe Quarry stone traders in Kitengela have decried low business and high cost of transport that has made the business unsustainable. They said transport of ferrying stones is almost equal to the price of purchasing the stones due to lack of any public passable road. According to the traders, lorries which mainly ferry stones from Sholinke and Nkurunka mines are forced to pay land owners for using the road that passes through their land. In an emerging trend the land owners are charging lorries up to Sh200 for a distance of 100 metres. “We are paying a lot of money just to use the road and wondering who should be responsible to ensure we have a route to pass,” said John Njane, a transporter. According to the transporters, the state of the road is also a thorn in their flesh as vehicles break down from time to time, making vehicle maintenance very expensive. The traders said business has sunk to its lowest since they have to increase price and the few people doing construction are not willing to purchase the same. Kitengela stone traders decry reduced business D&S mulls solar mini-grid solutions by Bernard Sigei @PeopleDailyKe An increasingly unreliable national grid and surge in demand for alternative power solutions in various industries including hospitality establishments, petrol stations and institutions of higher learning has seen Kenya Davis & Shirtliff offer its solar mini-grid solution to the sector. The water and energy-related dealer said a sharp fall in the global average price of solar modules from Sh300/w in 2008 to less than Sh40/w in 2023 will help institutions cut their overall energy costs and help reassign their budgets to other productive areas of business. In a statement, Davis & Shirtliff Group Solar Segment Manager Norman Chege said the solutions are providing high-quality uninterrupted electricity for large and mid-sized establishments giving sidelined communities an excellent experience. “The mini-grid solution is the key to closing the energy gap currently affecting underserved communities,” he remarked. Africa Solar Industry Association shows close to 1.9GWp of large-scale projects in Africa were in different development stages by the start of 2023 even as the Chege further reiterated that the company has been able to support counties through solar projects as part of helping them develop comprehensive electrification programmes for lowincome, off-grid households, and businesses. ECONOMIC SHOCKS Since the onset of Covid-19 in March 2020, the local currency has flirted with every global economic shock as it continues to search for direction. The shilling’s fall against the dollar has been consistent for several months now, coupled with challenges in accessing dollars, has seen investors flee the Nairobi Securities Exchange. Energy Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir is convinced US dollar-shilling rate should ease soon to below 130 from its current levels.

16 BUSINESS HUB PEOPLE DAILY / Wednesday, May 17, 2023 by John Otini @PeopleDailyKe Kenya’s projected economic growth range of between 4.5 and 5 per cent and diversity of activities makes it among the fastest growing economies in Africa despite shocks, Absa Kenya says in a new report. Coupled with the advantage of Kenya being the anchor economy for the East Africa region, the country is also primed to be among the fastest growing economies among it’s peers globally. Absa reports shows that while the shilling depreciated 9.7 per cent against the dollar in 2023, South Africa and Ghana currencies weakened by 13.9 per cent and 11.2 per cent respectively, to show the resilience of Kenya’s economy. Absa Kenya MD Abdi Mohamed said the positive vibes about economy mirrors recent IMF appraisals which indicated that even the Kenya shilling is performing better compared to African peers. Difficult times Speaking at a business forum in Nairobi where the bank hosted corporate customers to discuss macroeconomic issues affecting the business environment, he lauded business leaders for steadily steering enterprise through difficult times. However, the risk is that a narrow focus on the shilling becomes a distraction from the broader economic opportunity. Inflation is falling, which should help provide welcome relief to households across the country. For the shilling, Abdi said it’s not just about the perceived issues, but it’s also about the underlying balance of demand and supply of foreign currency from the economy. “Beyond Africa’s borders, the significant rise in global interest rates have pulled foreign investor money out of many emerging markets, turning currency supportive dollar inflows into currency challenge dollar outflows,” he said. TAX REVENUE Macroeconomic challenges, such as inflationary pressures and volatile exchange rates, may have impacted business activities, leading to reduced profitability and subsequently affecting tax revenue. Additionally, external factors such as global economic conditions and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic may have influenced revenue generation. IMF Managing Director Georgieva, commended the Government on its iscal measures. by John Otini @PeopleDailyKe Tax collection fell below target at the end of March 2023 even as collections from government ministries surpassed target. The latest Quarterly Economic Budgetary Review by the National Treasury says collection of ordinary revenue reached Sh1.686 trillion, but fell short of the set target of Sh1.773 trillion by Sh87.4 billion. Ordinary revenue is money collected from taxes, levies, royalties, fees, duties, rents, profits and income from any investments or undertakings by the State. This even as the total revenue increased by 10.9 per cent compared to the previous year, but the rate of growth was significantly lower than the 22.1 per cent recorded in March 2022. Mixed reactions Ordinary revenue collection was Sh1.441 trillion which means it missed the target of Sh1.553 trillion by Sh112.1 billion. “During the period under review, all ordinary revenue categories fell below their respective targets, with the exception of import declaration fees, which surpassed expectations by Sh1.1 billion,” Treasury said in its latest budget review statement. Traffic and other revenue categories met their targets as projected, while the revenue figures as the ministerial Appropriations-in-Aid (A-I-A) – which is money collected by parastatals – exceeded expectations to hit Sh244.8 billion against a target of Sh220.1 billion. It surpassed the target by Sh24.7 billion. “This outstanding performance can be attributed to the timely reporting of Special Audit General’s A-I-A through the expenditure returns for the period,” the report says. Surpassed target One notable area of success was the Railway Development Levy collection, which reached Sh29.6 billion, surpassing the target of Sh26.8 billion. The shortfall in revenue collection raises concerns about the government’s ability to meet its expenditure requirements and maintain fiscal stability. It underscores the need for effective revenue mobilisation strategies and enhanced tax administration. Absa Kenya bets on positive economic outlook Safaricom was the day’s biggest gainer at the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) with a 10 per cent price appreciation. The stock, which has recently been on a downward trend, closed the day’s trading with a share price of Sh14.30 from the Sh13 traded on Monday, with 1.22 million shares exchanging hands from 99 deals. The telco has a current market capitalisation of Sh573 billion and a gross turnover of 17.4 million. Safaricom’s net profit for the full year to March 31, 2023 dropped by 22.2 per cent on the back of heavy capital investments in Ethiopia. Profitability stood at Sh52.9 billion, down from Sh67.5 posted the previous period and is gearing to commercially launch M-Pesa in Ethiopia in the second quarter of the year. - Noel Wandera STOCK OF THE DAY Safaricom bullish on the NSE KRA misses Q1 target by Sh87 billion Ordinary revenue hit Sh1.7trillion, but fell short of the set target of Sh1.8tr by Sh87.4 billion by March, 2023 MARKET WATCH NAIROBI SECURITIES EXCHANGE SECTOR VWAP PREVIOUS TOTAL HIGH LOW AGRICULTURAL PRICES SHARES NSE ALL SHARE INDEX: UP 3.77 points to close at 96.82 NSE 20-SHARE INDEX: UP 6.96 points to close at 1474.49 NSE 25-SHARE INDEX: UP 62.26 points to close at 2560.92 14.00 10.00 Egaands Ltd Ord 1.25 11.30 11.55 2,000 450.00 240.00 Kakuzi Plc Ord.5.00 399.00 430.00 100 137.00 81.00 Kapchorva Tea Kenya Plc Ord Ord 5.00 130.00 510.00 320.00 The Limuru Two Ca. Plc Ord 20.00 400.00 31.40 17.90 Sasini Plc Ord 1.00 30.00 31.05 100 185.00 120.00 Williamson Tea Kenya Plc Ord 5.00 170.00 170.00 1,800 AUTOMOBILES & ACCESSORIES 49.75 27.90 Car & General (K) Ltd Ord 5.00 29.35 28.45 300 BANKING 13.00 9.02 ABSA Bank Kenya Plc Ord 0.50 10.35 10.25 194,600 34.50 26.50 BK Group Plc Ord 0.80 32.00 57.00 43.75 Diamond Trust Bonk Kenya Ltd Ord 4.00 45.55 49.85 1,000 53.50 37,50 Equity Group Holdings Plc Ord 0,50 39.90 40.50 1,690,500 4.30 2.80 HP Group Plc Ord 5.00 3.81 3.76 1,500 21.50 16.50 I&M Group Plc Ord 1.00 17.00 16.90 44,700 44.00 28.05 KCB Group Plc Ord 1,00 31.20 29.00 44,900 41.00 23.30 NCBA Group Plc Ord 5.00 31.40 30.70 313,600 119.00 90.00 Stanbic Holdings Plc ard.5.00 11125 111.25 33,000 172.50 121.00 Standard Chartered Bank Kenya Ltd Ord 5.00 141.00 138.25 38,600 14.00 10.30 The Co-operative Bank of Kenya Ltd Ord 1.00 12.30 12.40 1,291,700 COMMERCIAL AND SERVICES 0.45 0,45 Deacons (East Af rico) Plc Ord 2.50 0.45 0.95 0.59 Eveready East Af rico Ltd Ord. 1.00 0.84 0.84 6,400 5.40 2.70 Express Kenya Plc Ord 5.00 4.33 4.70 600 0.00 0.00 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 I.00 2.35 2.35 13,000 5.12 2.60 Nairobi Business Ventures Plc Ord. 0.50 2.82 2.96 58,600 23.00 14.00 Notion Media Group Plc Ord. 2.50 16.05 16.35 1,100 4.38 1.80 Sameer Africa Plc Ord 5.00 220 2.12 6,700 14.75 8.16 Standard Group Plc Ord 5.00 9.70 18.00 10.85 TPS Eastern Africa Ltd Ord 1.00 14.90 0.29 0.16 Uchumi Supermarket Plc Ord 5.00 0.19 0.18 27,100 423 2.65 WPP Scangrroup Plc Ord 1.00 2.81 2.81 25,300 CONSTRUCTION & ALLIED 5.55 5.55 ARM Cement Plc Ord 1.00 5.55 39.50 22.40 Bamburi Cement Plc Ord 5,00 24.00 24.00 30,400 44.15 31.75 Crown Paints Kenya Plc Ord 5.00 41.50 41.50 200 1.32 0.72 E.A.Cables Ltd Ord 0.50 0.91 0.96 24,000 8.80 5.80 E.A.Portland Cement Co. Ltd Ord 5.00 5.70 ENERGY & PETROLEUM 3.88 2.00 KenGen Co. Plc Ord. 2.50 2.32 2.33 128,500 2.11 1.30 Kenya Power & Lighting Co Plc Ord 2.50 1.41 1.39 442,900 4.11 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 21.85 20.15 20,800 15.15 6.30 Umeme Ltd Ord 0.50 13.95 14.00 8,400 INSURANCE 7.50 4.01 Britam Holdings Plc Ord 0.10 4.13 4.15 109,100 2.30 1.67 CIC Insurance Group Ltd Ord.1100 1.75 1.71 41,000 273.00 142.00 Jubilee Holdings Ltd Ord 5.00 179.75 180.00 2,200 2.30 1.50 Kenya Re Insurance Corporation Ltd Ord 2.50 1.82 1.81 44,800 7.48 3.60 Liberty Kenya Holdings Ltd Ord. 1.00 3.70 3.70 200 15.00 7.20 Sanlam Kenya Plc Ord 5.00 8.40 8.60 100 INVESTMENT 12.80 7.70 Centum Investment Co Plc Ord 0.50 8.06 8.04 7,800 0.41 0.27 Hame Afrika Ltd Ord 1.00 029 0.30 3,900 1500.00 1,500.00 Kurwitti Ventures Ltd Ord 100.00 1,500.00 3.20 1.91 Olympia Capital Holdings Ltd Ord 5.00 2.85 3.00 1,400 1.35 0.78 Trans-Century Plc Ord 0.50 0.87 0.88 6,400 INVESTMENT SERVICES 8.50 5.62 Nairobi Securities Exchange Plc Ord 4.00 6.00 6.10 9,100 MANUFACTURING & ALLIED 85.00 65.00 B.0.C Kenya Plc Ord 5.00 90.25 490.00 400.00 British American Tobacco Kenya Plc Ord 10.00 455.00 460.25 9,400 14.25 10.30 Carbacid Investments Plc Ord 1.00 12.65 12.50 41,500 190.00 110.00 East African Breweries Plc Ord 2.00 145.00 142.00 150,500 1.40 0.90 Flame Tree Group Holdings Ltd Ord 0.825 1.35 15.00 10.40 Kenya Orchards Ltd Ord 5.00 15.00 0.27 0.27 Mumias Sugar Co. Ltd Ord 2.00 027 35.00 15.00 Unga Group Ltd Ord 5.00 18.90 21.00 200 TELECOMMUNICATION 34.00 12.70 Safaricom Plc Ord 0.05 14.30 13.00 1,219,300 REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUST 7.30 5.00 ILAM FAHARI I-REIT Ord.20.00 5.92 5.96 23,600 20.00 20.00 LAPTRUST IMARA I-REIT Ord.20.00 20.00 EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS 2560.00 1880.00 ABSA New Gold ETF 2530.00 2500.00 400 CBK KEY RATES CURRENCY MEAN BUY SELL US DOLLAR 137.1029 137.0029 137.2029 SW KRONER 13.2435 13.2302 13.2567 STG POUND 171.5088 171.3588 171.6588 SINGAPORE DOLLAR 102.6028 102.5241 102.6814 SAUDI RIYAL 36.5598 36.5322 36.5875 SA RAND 7.1958 7.1876 7.2041 S FRANC 153.1620 153.0417 153.2822 NOR KRONER 12.9252 12.9117 12.9387 KES / USHS 27.1475 27.0913 27.2038 KES / TSHS 17.2061 17.1571 17.2551 KES / RWF 8.1696 8.1016 8.2376 KES / BIF 20.5630 20.3839 20.7421 JPY (100) 100.8221 100.7449 100.8994 IND RUPEE 1.6680 1.6666 1.6694 HONGKONG DOLLAR 17.4945 17.4818 17.5073 EURO 149.1456 149.0159 149.2753 DAN KRONER 20.0317 20.0162 20.0472 CHINESE YUAN 19.7000 19.6849 19.7150 CAN $ 101.7424 101.6493 101.8355 AUSTRALIAN $ 91.6465 91.5454 91.7476 AE DIRHAM 37.3394 37.3071 37.3718 Central Bank Rate 9.50% 29/03/2023 Inter-Bank Rate 9.25% 15/05/2023 CBK Discount Window 15.50% 29/03/2023 91-Day T-Bill 10.410% 15/05/2023 REPO 0.00% 27/04/2023 Inflation Rate 7.9% April,2023 Lending Rate 13.06% February,2023 Savings Rate 3.58% February,2023 Deposit Rate 7.54% February,2023 KBRR 8.9% 27/07/2016 KEY CBK INDICATIVE EXCHANGE RATES 16/5/2023

Kyiv, Tuesday The Ukrainian capital Kyiv has been targeted by further Russian air attacks, described by one official as “exceptional in density”. Ukraine said all 18 missiles were shot down and footage showed air defences destroying targets over the city. But Russia said its attack - which used drones and missiles - had hit all its targets. Moscow has stepped up its air campaign in recent weeks, ahead of an expected Ukrainian offensive. The air raid alert sounded at around 02:30 local time (23:30 GMT Monday) and was lifted two hours later in the eighth attack to hit the capital this month. An unusually high number of loud explosions was heard in the city centre, as authorities told residents in online messages that air defence had been activated. The head of Ukraine’s armed forces, Valerii Zaluzhny, said Russia attacked Kyiv from the north, south and east and that 18 air, sea and land-based missiles had been used. Serhiy Popko, head of the Ukrainian capital’s military administration, described the barrage as being the “maximum number of attack missiles in the shortest period of time”. “According to preliminary information, the vast majority of enemy targets in the airspace of Kyiv were detected and destroyed,” he added. Gen Zaluzhny said that included nine Kalibr cruise missiles, which were launched from ships in the Black Sea, and three landbased missiles. He added that Kyiv also destroyed six Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, which are capable of reaching speeds of more than 11,000kmh (7,000mph). - BBC mutual interest.” Russian news agencies reported earlier on Monday that Mbatha was heading a delegation that discussed “issues relating to military cooperation and interaction”. Mbatha had “visited educational institutions of the ground forces and enterprises of the military-industrial complex” of Russia, the agencies said. “Agreements were reached to further increase cooperation between ground forces in various fields,” Russian news agency Interfax said. Profound concerns Last week, United States Ambassador to Pretoria Reuben Brigety said that the US believed weapons and ammunition had been loaded onto a Russian freighter that docked at a Cape Town naval base in December. Brigety said he was confident that a Russian ship under US sanctions took on board weapons from the Simon’s Town base in December, suggesting the transfer was not in line with Pretoria’s stance of neutrality in Russia’s war against Ukraine. South African officials swiftly rejected claims made by the US ambassador, who also said senior US officials had “profound concerns” over South Africa’s professed policy of non-alignment and neutrality over Russia’s war in Ukraine. The claims of secret weapons shipments to Russia drew an angry response from South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa, who did not deny the charge but said an investigation into the matter would be launched. Several ministers, including the one responsible for arms control and the communications minister, as well as a foreign ministry spokesperson, have said South Africa had not approved any arms shipment to Russia in December. Brigety was summoned on Friday to meet South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor and he apologised “unreservedly” to the government and the people of South Africa, a foreign ministry statement said. - Xinhua Ukraine war: Kyiv hit by ‘exceptional’ missiles Russian, Chinese and military officials from other countries attend a South African Armed Forces Day parade in Richards Bay, South Africa, in February, 2023. COURTESY South African military chief in Moscow Pretoria, Tuesday The commander of South Africa’s ground forces has visited Moscow for talks with Russian counterparts just days after Washington accused South Africa of secretly providing arms to Russia. The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) said on Monday that the meeting was “planned well in advance” as part of “a long-standing arrangement” and was a “goodwill visit” at the invitation of the Russian army. In a statement, SANDF said it “confirms that the Chief of the SA Army, LieutenantGeneral Lawrence Mbatha, is in Moscow for a bilateral between the two military establishments”. “It must be noted that South Africa has Military to Military bilateral relations with various countries in the continent and beyond,” it said. “The SANDF receives numerous military delegations into the country and sends its own delegations to other countries to discuss matters of Visit to the Kremlin comes after US allegations that weapons were loaded onto Russian ship in Cape Town RUSSIA ARMS CLAIMS The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) said on Monday that the meeting was “planned well in advance” as part of “a long-standing arrangement” Ramaphosa also hinted on Monday that Putin would visit South Africa for a meeting of leaders of the BRICS economic bloc in August. Some 883 people were executed last year, the highest number of known executions in five years, according to Amnesty International, which also raised concerns about the use of the death penalty for drug offences. The number of executions, which does not include the thousands thought to have been carried out in China, increased by more than 50 percent compared with 2021, Amnesty said on Tuesday in its annual report on the use of the death penalty. Some 90 percent of the world’s known executions outside China were carried out in just three countries in the Middle East and North Africa, the rights group said. Iran executed 576 people last year (314 in 2021), Saudi Arabia 196 people (65 in 2021), and Egypt 24 people. Amnesty noted executions in Saudi Arabia were the highest recorded in 30 years. “Countries in the Middle East and North Africa region violated international law as they ramped up executions in 2022, revealing a callous disregard for human life. - Xinhua A Tunisian court has sentenced opposition leader Rached Ghannouchi to a year in prison. The Ennahda party leader, who is a fierce critic of President Kais Saied, has been detained since last month after being arrested for allegedly plotting against state security and incitement. Ghannouchi rejected the allegations as politically motivated, refusing to appear before the judges. On Monday, he was sentenced in absentia.There has been a wave of arrests this year of leading figures opposed to Saied, who assumed full executive powers almost two years ago. Since February, 20 of Saied’s political opponents and personalities have been arrested, including former ministers and business figures. Ghannouchi’s detention last month alongside other sparked international condemnation, including by the US, the European Union and rights groups. - BBC Recorded executions highest in five years: Amnesty report Tunisia opposition leader Ghannouchi jailed for a year BRIEFLY Selfie after a great show A police dog instructor poses for a selfie with her dog during a display in Paraguay. The dogs, however, stay put. From the large dalmatian to the miniature pinscher, all have been trained to Kennel Club silver award standard, and (mostly) engage only when told to by their owners. Their display is followed by a “Safe and Sound demonstration”, reminding people how to approach dogs in the street they don’t know – ask the owner’s permission, let the dog smell the back of your hand first and then slowly progress to gentle strokes. - COURTESY 17 WORLD NEWS FOR MORE NEWS VISIT: www.pd.co.ke / www.epaper. pd.co.ke Wednesday, May 17, 2023

AT A GLANCE While many would associate Andre Duncan Oduor’s stage name 2mbili with a monkey, it is not so. 2mbili had vowed that before the age of 22 (two mbili), he should have started making a name for himself in the Kenyan comedy industry. He got into comedy as a way of making his own money after he got tired of asking his father for pocket money when he was studying microbiology at University of Nairobi. He started Campus Comedy Show while in University of Nairobi. He has performed at Laugh Festival, Africa Comedy Tour, Extreme Comedy Night, You Only Laugh Once (YOLO ), 22 Reasons to Laugh, and 2Mbili Unchained. 18 PEOPLE DAILY / Wednesday, May 17, 2023 Relatively Speaking Inner circle truth other’s strengths. They learned from an early age that they aren’t in competition with each other and believe that they both have the power to help each other thrive. “We are currently running a nongovernmental project together called Udonga Compassionate Development (UCD) where we srive to put smile to millions of people who are health insecure or hopeless. Our dad has always been our key inspiration. 2mbili has also played a big part in motivating me. He will tell you to either go big or go home and remind you that before you quit on something, ask yourself why you started it. I would like to tell people to believe on themselves, it doesn’t matter how you started. What matters is how you will finish. In 1 Chronicles 4:9 Jabez was more honourable than his brothers. His mother had named him Jabez, saying “I gave birth to him in sorrow,” Jabez cried out to the Lord saying “ooh that you would bless me indeed and enlarge my territory,” he mentions. The two share the same hobbies of reading and playing chess. KELVIN He was so cheeky, but a brilliant student. He was a child who loved to experiment by Allan Adalla @adalla_allan O ne thing that always brings most siblings together once they grow up is reminiscing the funny experiences they had together while growing up. This is what cools down the common sibling rivalry and the differences they develop, which is considered to be a normal thing, especially for those that are almost agemates. Andrew Kelvin alias Kev and his brother Andre Duncan Oduor known by his stage name 2mbili have always been close. Kev says that in most times when they meet, they recall the cheeky and upbeat moments they had together while growing up in Nakuru and later Kisumu. 2mbili is a comedian and a content creator popular for his lifestyle show Celeb Ride on his 2mbili TV YouTube channel, while his brother Kelvin is an event organiser and entertainer. “One of the many funniest experience I can recall was a time when we conspired to run away from home to become street children because our dad was a no-nonsense disciplinarian! We returned home after two hours because we were hungry,” he recalls laughing. No dull moment Kev also recalls when 2mbili was escorted by a whole village from Siaya to Nairobi to join University of Nairobi (UoN) in 2011. “2mbili managed to get a good grade in his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exam at a village school we both attended in Siaya County. This landed him an opportunity to join UoN as a government-sponsored regular student. Since he made history as the only student to have managed to get to university as a regular student in the school, the school gave out the school bus as a reward to take him to UoN. It was like a village affair, so he was escorted by almost the whole village,” he narrates. 2mbili is Kev’s elder brother with a two years difference. “I have eight siblings and I’m the third born child in our family. We were born and raised in Nakuru and later shifted to Kisumu due to post-election violence in 2007-2008. Growing up with 2mbili was always a life full of fun. In my next life, I would still choose him as my elder brother as our bond is beyond words,”Kev divulges. Kev describes his brother as an intelligent, humorous man, which he noticed from their childhood days. “He was so cheeky, but a brilliant student. He was a child who loved to experiment and learn new things. I recall when he was once caught in the neighbourhood stealing a bicycle that he didn’t even know how to ride, but above all, he grew up a fighter!’’ he says. At the university, 2mbili pursued a Bachelor degree in Microbiology, but later diverted to comedy in 2013. “While at UoN, 2mbili got tired of asking my dad for pocket money. As he told me, every time he requested for upkeep, dad would promise to send him within a few days. He would get tired of waiting and started thinking of how he could make a few coins. He saw that our dad was overburdened as the younger siblings were still in secondary school and we needed school fees. He decided to be independent and chose to take on comedy in 2013. He linked up with comedians such as YY and Sleepy David, who weren’t popular then,” Kev says. As Kev says, 2mbili did several auditions, including for Churchill Show. But he wasn’t really willing to be under any management. That is why it took him a while to put his name out there. 2mbili has done a number of comedy shows. He started Campus Comedy Show while in UoN that got a lot of attention, even hosting established comedians. He has performed at Laugh Festival, Africa Comedy Tour, Extreme Comedy Night, You Only Laugh Once (YOLO ), 22 Reasons to Laugh, and 2Mbili Unchained. Not in competition In 2016, Kev shares how 2mbili connected him with the late Othuol Othuol and that’s when he started his events career since there were so many opportunities in it. Apart from events, Kev is also a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) from the Cooperative University, Kenya. He reveals that they have both won Xtreem Awards and FEMA Awards where 2mbili is a seven-time Xtreem Awards winner. He says that the secret behind their strong affinity has been recognising each How funny man chanced on comedy for pocket money Andre Duncan Oduor is an-award winning commedian known by his stage name 2mbili. His brother Andrew Kelvin tells us more about him Andrew Kelvin and his brother 2mbili. PD/ COURTESY

PEOPLE DAILY / Wednesday, May 17, 2023 19 GET THE LOOK With Faith Kyoumukama T ell us your background and how it shaped your outlook on life. I was born and raised in Kenya and studied there until high school. I actually went to university in Switzerland to study Hospitality. So, my professional background is hospitality. I didn’t live in Kenya for about five years, working in hotels and restaurant management all through in The Maldives, and this is my past life. It was crazy; I was actually working from 8am to 10pm. How did that exposure shape you and inform your design? Hospitality was a good place for me to start because it allowed me to maybe just work with people, having a teamwork ethic, and understanding we can do better together as a collective. We had to learn about one another and how this ultimately can help us achieve goals together and this is a significant bit about hospitality because there is no way a good organisation could be sufficient or effective without a good understanding of each other and the client. The aspect of collaboration really means a lot to me. Talk about the Blueprint series on YouTube that you started recently? Blueprint is an information and educational audio-visual series that highlights different creatives in Nairobi. It’s about helping others understand that we’re better off together. Where did your design and garment career start? Daudi O of Metamorphosized Nairobi calls me a Garment Architect and I love that definition of me. I used to make a lot of my own stuff, which was oversized because I never used to find clothes that fit me the way I like. Crafted Nairobi really came from that ethos of the uniform I used to wear while working in the hospitality Spice Flavour your day STYLE @Onyango_Jack MADE IN NAIROBI sector. It used to annoy me so much, but each job had a specific uniform for a specific time for a different reason, which should make sense that it will allow you to do your job better. That is what Crafted is all about. I asked myself what could be my addition to the fashion industry, and from my background, it made sense that was my direction. Who are some of your mentors that influence you? I have to give my flowers to Mvoo at Bonkerz, the Studio 18 camp in Nairobi because these guys were doing it before I was. These guys really helped my hand through it. I also did a fashion course with Anne McCreath from KikoRomeo, which had a lot of advisors. It helped my hand to understand what I was doing because I really had no idea. These people guided me and gave me useful knowledge about the industry. My inspirations, however, stem from me being obsessed with product design such as toys and furniture, anything that really exists fascinates me. Nairobi street wear is also bubbling, what are your thoughts on the industry at the moment? I think as an industry we’re at an interesting point at the moment. You have a mixture of people who have gone to school for fashion design and an interesting cohort of people who are self-taught. There is a beautiful intersection of playfulness and risks that are being taken. The self-taught are coming into places where they can learn more, while the learned are becoming more playful and risque. There’s a lot of support and people are collaborating all-round from models, photographers, journalists, and designers, so that’s dope. What was your thought process going into your debut collection “The Idea of Uniform” in 2020? The collection was based on the idea of what uniform was in 2020 and the two words going through my mind were comfort and style. I wanted these two things to coexist. I wanted people to be able to chill, but also to look kind of fresh. You’re huge on sustainability and upcycling. Speak on this. In Kenya, you have to work with the materials that you can find. Not all my materials are upcycled because in the Kenyan market, that nuance of limited fabric is a thing because the fabric we use is a lot of dead stock from factories. When actual highend fashion houses that produce in Kenya don’t end up using all the fabric, it’s “thrown” into the market. Off this idea of working with dead stock, you’re not in control of ordering the material. You might see something you like but need more of it or less, but you can’t control that because it’s limited. A lot of decision-making goes into working with that fabric. Crafted Nairobi also has a soft spot for sportswear and athleisure clothing… Athleisure has definitely been a huge part of my life. I’ve played sports all of my life and I hit the gym religiously. I think I’ll move away from that in my next collection because the conversation is different. It’s going to require a different thought process. Athleisure though, in terms of materials and style, has definitely influenced me in the recent times. How about your latest plush-looking collection, The Sportswear? I was talking with some people and it was about how this playful attitude is removed from life when you reach a certain age. I think it was based around sport, play and this playful attitude was presented to adults that you can look fresh and feel goofy, and I wanted people to ease up on the black. Wana Muthama is the founder and creative director of design and garment imprint Crafted Nairobi. She chats with Jackson Onyango about her style, fashion journey, Nairobi’s fashion landscape and her latest sportswear collection Pink is a fun colour and it’s even more playful when on a skater dress. We love the sassiness coming with the floral burst. Purple shouts royalty, more so when it’s this shade. We love the designer’s choice of two different shades of purple that still maintained effortless style. This dress is the perfect look of elegance and edginess. We love the texture-blocking, especially because it’s white versus a bold African print. Sophisticated by nature Content creator and influencer Shelley Mukami, also known as Shelly Sophisticated, is one of those personalities that dress up good when attending events. Here are some of our favourite looks from her fashion lookbook with her signature pose. Wana Muthama

Clique & Clicks Get Spotted 20 PEOPLE DAILY / Wednesday, May 17, 2023 PASSION TO LIVELIHOOD by Alex Mburu Mobile app HustleSasa yesterday announced an opening for applications for its upskilling and digitisation incubator. Dubbed “Turning Passions to Livelihood”, the ninemonth project that will run in collaboration with entertainment spot The Alchemist aims at providing young and up-and-coming creators across Kenya with tools, resources, networks and knowledge needed to earn a living doing what they love. Participants will spend seven weeks attending business and marketing masterclasses facilitated by different industry experts with topics raging from financial literacy to budgeting, community building and mental health. The project is supported by a grant from The Ignite Culture implemented by Heva Fund, in partnership with the British Council Kenya and financial contribution of the European Union and the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States. PD/ALEX MBURU by Milliam Murigi Startup Africa Roadtrip, a not-for-profit outfit supporting and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and start-ups, recently held a pitch day for the seeds for sustainable energy 2023 programme at E4Impact Entrepreneurship Centre, Nairobi. The event’s aim was to listen to 10 start-up founders, innovators, makers and young talents who have developed products or services with high potential impact for local agribusinesses. After the pitch, the three most outstanding start-ups walked away with Sh4.48 million (€ 30,000) worth of services. The initiative was promoted by Be Entrepreneurs APS and Joule, Eni School of Entrepreneurship with the support of the Embassy of Italy. PD/MILLIAM MURIGI Hustle Sasa Chief Technology Officer and co-founder Michael Denuh. Tukalime Ventures founder Kevin Kamau with Drone Crops founder Rebecca Nyambura. MUm se, et furbem plissicatuus ventemu Podcaster Shaa Shiku rarivis con viditat with artiste Yaro B. Proteen’s Rosanne Mwangi follows the proceedings. Hustle Sasa co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer Rizz Jiwani. Boost for start-ups Artiste Mandy Kabaya. Startinev Ltd team Eric Vatate, Nancy Uhuru, Innocent Magothe, Lawrence Maina and Jesse Muraya. We are the happy winners! Emmanuel Muchule, Allan Coredo and Esther Wanjiru. Heva Fund’s Mars Maasai and Wango Alfred of Karibu Nairobi Brand. Artistes Sabi Wu and Korbs. Startup Africa Roadtrip’s Lorenzo D’Amello and Paola Pirra.

Buying used furniture is a great way of bringing home bugs you’ve never haboured before Ten PEOPLE DAILY / Wednesday, May 17, 2023 TOP SHELF FACTS 21 Second hand things you should avoid buying In these tough economic times, everyone is looking for bargains. People are opting to buy second hand items instead of new products to save on some coins. While purchasing thrifted products can be a huge money-saver, it’s not the best option for everything. For quality, cleanliness, and a myriad of other reasons, Milliam Murigi looks at some used stuff that you should probably keep at an arm’s length 1. Mattresses When you buy a used mattress, you risk bringing home bed bugs. One of the most common ways bed bugs are introduced to a home is through used beddings. Apart from that, buying a used mattress means you’re also buying everything that’s built up inside it over time thus agreeing to sleep in traces of other people’s body fluids. 2. Wooden and upholstered furniture Grossed out by the thought of bed bugs? They’re not just in beds. Experts say wooden and upholstered furniture can also harbour the tiny blood-sucking creatures. According to some reports, bed bugs can live in the cracks and crevices of wood furniture for up to 18 months. Buying used furniture is a great way of bringing home bugs you’ve never haboured before. So, think twice before buying that sofa set or coffee table. 3. Blenders We don’t often think of blenders as things that require sharpening, but blenders have blades too and they’re much more difficult to sharpen. Every blender’s performance gets worse the longer it’s used without replacing the blade. So, unless you’re getting an amazing deal, consider a new blender instead. It’s almost guaranteed to work better. 4. Children’s furniture Children’s products are recalled at a high frequency, with more than 100 recalls every year. If you buy used, not only might you be getting an unsafe item, but also it is more likely to have been subject to a recall. When you buy new, you know you’re getting furniture that’s been manufactured to the latest safety standards, and you won’t have to worry about things like peeling paint or small pieces that can break off and be swallowed. 5. Safety gear Safety gears such as motorcycle or bicycle helmets are always good when bought new. According to the New York Times, once such gears are involved in any sort of crash, they no longer provide adequate protection. These gears also deteriorate over time, simply due to exposure to ozone and sunlight. Good safety gear is worth splurging on and don’t take a chance on used safety gear of any kind. 6. Non-stick cookware Non-stick cookware is coated with chemicals that produce that non-stick effect, and most of the time, this kind of cookware isn’t dangerous. The problem comes when it is used to cook at higher temperatures, which can break down the chemical, releasing it into the food. When non-stick cookware is scratched, it is also no longer safe. Since you don’t know how the previous owner treated that sufuria, it’s better to buy it new. 7. Mobile phones The biggest risk of buying a preowned used mobile phone is that it could be stolen from someone else. The second biggest danger is that the second-hand mobile phone you are buying might have been misused in the past to execute unlawful activities. Another risk is the presence of fake mobile phones. Today’s market is flooded with fake phones that are exact replicas of their original models and difficult to distinguish with the naked eye. 8. Jewellery You may think you’re getting an awesome deal by purchasing jewellery at a tag sale or thrift shop. But, unless you’re well versed in identifying jewellery value, you could be getting ripped off. Another problem is the unknown history. This is the biggest issue with used jewellery. Jewellery, especially fine jewellery, requires special care and cleaning, and, if damage occurs, it needs to be repaired as soon as possible. When you buy used jewellery, you have no way of knowing the history behind the piece. 9. Audio equipment If you buy a second hand speaker, chances are it won’t be at its full sound capacity, especially if the previous owner loved to blast music at full volume. Wear and tear on audio equipment like speakers can be hard to detect at first glance, but you’ll probably notice it once you start trying to play your tunes. 10. Car seats When it comes to second hand car seats, you can’t be 100 per cent sure a car seat hasn’t been involved in a crash (rendering it ineffective), if it’s been recalled, or if the expiration date is correct (yes, car seats have expiration dates). A used car seat could have broken components and even missing pieces including an installation manual. If you must buy a used car seat buy it from a family member or close friend who you can trust when they say it is only lightly used and was never involved in an accident.

22 PEOPLE DAILY / Wednesday, May 17, 2023 Family Fusion All about kin and kith Motherhood; where love begins Dennis Murimi lost his father when he was eight years old. Despite the challenges his family faced such as financial instability, they never lacked their mother’s love and support by Harriet James @harriet86jim D ennis Murimi Mburu and his siblings found themselves in a single-parent family by fate. His father passed away when he was only eight years old leaving their mother as the sole breadwinner. Being that their mother was a casual labourer, this meant that meeting the family’s basic needs was no easy task. Without a partner to share the load of raising children, parenting can be hard. Single parent’s problems include having to adapt to a drop in income, a changed lifestyle, and even a moving from what one knew as home or even neighbourhood. Single parenting requires a single parent to combine the roles of two people; raising the children and running the house. If you’re a single parent, one may have to juggle work and children. Without the support of a partner, many big decisions in a child’s life are left up to the single mother to make. This can feel incredibly intimidating and cause plenty of stress. “Most of the time, we lacked school fees and good clothing — we lacked most of the basic essentials, but what kept us moving is the love mother had towards us,” the ifth born in a family of six narrated After completing his Form Four, he joined campus to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Project Management. He would later on discontinue due to lack of school fees. Fortunately he managed to secure a job where he is currently attached. Children raised by single mothers face all types of stereotypes. They are said to lack discipline. Research has shown that these children are more likely to face emotional and behavioural health challenges — such as aggression or engaging in high-risk behaviours — when compared to peers raised by married parents. Another possibility is that these children face more instability in family structure and that this instability results in worse outcomes for the child. Mother’s love that moves mountains However, Dennis believes that it is entirely possible for a single parent to raise a successful child. “It is never easy and it’s always full of struggles, but its possible to raise successful children. Watching my mother raise us has made me believe that it can be done if they only have a positive outlook, have emotional support, set clear expectations and also have deined structures for your children,” he continues. Dennis admits that children raised by single parents can sometimes feel frightened, stressed and frustrated by the difference that they see between themselves and their friends. They are also prone to alcohol or drug abuse, psychiatric illnesses as well as suicide attempts. However, when the single parent sets clear rules that limit behaviour, are warm, sensitive, responsive and lexible, Dennis Murimi. having grown without a father, he wishes to never let his children go through what he has gone through in life. PD/HARRIET JAMES POSITIVE OUTLOOK Because children have only one parent does not mean that they are doomed or that their lives will be riddled with problems and they will have poor, miserable adulthood. Such a situation can also help children develop positive life perspectives. Spending quality one-on-one time with one’s children allows the parent to develop a special bond with her child. This is important both whether one is a single parent or in a family where both parents are present. it assists the children to become secure. All young people — including those in single-parent families — lourish when they have caring, committed relationships with existing parents or other loving care givers. The importance of safe, stable homes, communities and families that have adequate socio-economic resources, social supports and services is key “My mother always assured us of her love and support. She did all she could for us. She ensured we pursued an education and she did all she could to ensure we went to school,” he explains. While single mothers are advised to look for male models, preferably uncles and relatives, especially when boys approach puberty, Dennis says lack of such a person in his life didn’t deter him from growing up upright. “I feel that the role of having a role model is often exaggerated. You don’t require to copy someone that much. I was tried to be the best version of myself as I could. I believe that the man who stands in front of the mirror is the best model they can be for themselves. I had to make informed decisions not just my own, but for the betterment of the family. I have friends who are my role models and have assisted me learn more about business, education as well as lifestyle,” he adds. He appreciates his mother for all the sacriices that he has made for him. This is Raised by a single mum, I turned out fine what, he says, has assisted him get to where he is in life. In addition, he has always learnt to respect all women based on what he has watched his mother go through. “It would have been better if she had another hand. While I currently don’t have a family yet, but as long as I live, I will never let my son or daughter go without a father and ensure whatever I lacked is available to them,” says Dennis. Emotionally healthy men Having gone through the experience of lacking a father, Dennis advises single mothers to ensure that their children are well taken care of emotionally. They should let their children seek their own heroes and role models as that will assist them in having sound judgment and discernment. Whether or not you have a man around to show him the ropes, your son can grow up to be an emotionally healthy male just as many boys of single mothers have already done. “Most boys engage in drug abuse since they lack someone to question them. Mothers should know their opinions in their children’s matter,” he explains. Dennis also urges mothers never to shy away from discussing the challenges they face in their lives. They should also make the most of everyday moments and give their children attention. Does anything quite prepare you for motherhood? I have read numerous books and articles on parenting and motherhood. I even wrote and edited some myself, but even I must admit that it doesn’t prepare you for what’s real; what’s on the ground, and until you experience it, nothing makes sense. The closest I ever got to parenthood without being one was when she bore her first child. She was still living at our parents’ house and had ongoing college exams, so she needed all the help we could give. A love that aches I remember falling in love with her son when I first laid my hands on him. He was the most adorable little human I knew, and I loved him like he was my own- I remember telling my sister how I never imagined I could feel what I felt in my heart for any human. Yet, even so, I was only, but his aunt. I handed him back to his mother whenever I could not stop his wailing or if I felt him burning up. I was the one that slept all night while she struggled to keep her eyes open every time her little one needed to feed. I could only truly understand what she was going through by becoming a mother myself. A no-exit situation And I became one, in time. And no one indeed prepared me for what was to become. Sometimes, when I think about the things I’ve done and gone through, I am grateful that I embarked on it unaware because it is scary, yet completely rewarding. I have grown to become a house doctor, teacher, chef, cleaner, driver, pastor, psychiatrist, and clown! The most common name in my house is mum. And the most intriguing part of all this is that I can never lose my job once I enrol for it. Everyone in my house loves me… everyone needs me! I am most valued at home and that’s where all love begins. My life is defined by love, and love defines me- a mother. The good book agrees too! Let’s hold our heads up, mums, we are special! MUMINTHEMIX WITH FANNE MWAMBI

Wednesday, May 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY FAMILY FUSION 23 PARENTING BY KWACH WAKHISI @PeopleDailyKe Mother’s Day is a special occasion that allows us to express our gratitude and love towards our mothers. A few years ago, I celebrated Mother’s Day with my family by taking my mother out for dinner. When she arrived, she was surprised to see the table decorated for her. We all gave her a warm hug and wished her a happy Mother’s Day. Throughout the meal, we shared stories, laughs, and cherished memories with our mother. I remember my youngest brother who was keen to remind our mum, how hard she was on us. We all laughed at how tough she was on us, but were grateful that those efforts did not amount to naught. You don’t have to wait This past Mother’s Day, we didn’t manage to put something together for mum. I called her and wished her a Happy Mother’s Day on phone. Since she is not on social media, I didn’t see the need to post those moving messages on my social media status. As I reflected on this day, I wondered, why must I wait for one day in a year to wish my mother a Happy Mother’s Day. I don’t need to wait. My mother will always remain special to me. If I reflect on where I have come from, I reflect on the trips my mum made to the market, the many times she went to work as a farmhand on people’s farms so that we can have a living… I recall the distance my mother covered to fetch water from a river that was like four kilometres away so that we can have water for consumption and use at home. But is this reminiscence all that is required. Actions speak louder I decided to put up a decent house for my parents. I also helped them to harvest water and got them a bigger water storage tank. I ensured that my mum doesn’t have to go looking for firewood in the nearby forest to make a warm cup of tea, so I got her a gas cooker. Don’t just wish your mother a happy Mother’s Day, do something today, tomorrow, and the day after to make her life bearable to the best of your ability. Do something for your mother to make her life better Family on mission to help needy people ple would receive a slightly bigger sum. Florence opines: “They kept coming and coming. I can confidently say that every month, we give Winnie at least Sh40, 000 to help these people to enable them sustain their livelihoods. We are hoping that she will be identifying more than two individuals a month and this initiative will go a long way to spread the cheer. My team and I have chosen to remain anonymous throughout this project, but collectively, Winnie shares with us whatever she does on the ground with this money. We don’t get to choose the beneficiaries because we are not on the ground. She has worked with the needy before and is familiar with the region we chose to assist.” Growing together For people who feel they need to be beneficiaries of this initiative, Winnie goes to them and verify their needs. They don’t have a specific genre of needs because people have different problems; some may be lacking school fees, others may be widows and orphans, some may be jobless at the time and facing money problems yet have children without food to eat. Through the initiative, they strive to reach to them. For Florence, the most fulfilling aspect of her motherhood journey has been her children. “I get to spend every single time I have with them. They learn from me and see what I do. Basically, we learn together, play, travel and grow together. It’s amazing seeing the changes they make Florence Akumu speaks on motherhood and daring to make it happen through her social cause E very single day you wake up, there is an opportunity to do something different, better, greater and bigger. And one Florence Akumu knows this too well. Her best lessons in life have come from being a mother, and she recognises that true “balance” doesn’t really exist, but you do what you can with what you have. “I am a mother of three children named Tristan, Seth and Ruby. But first I am a wife to a man named Victor. I am a stay-at-home mum, an entrepreneur and a trained nurse. Nyakano Kobura is a business name I coined in 2017 when I started my entrepreneurial journey,” Florence describes herself. She offers: “Why did I choose to be a stay-at-home mum? One thing that I have chosen to be that my mother was, is being a housewife and on the other note, one thing that my mother did not have that I have today is a voice — a voice of change, initiation, and impact. I use that voice to impact lives in my family, motherhood journey and in my marriage.” Florence started a monthly cause to help needy people through her Mama TSR charity drive, where TSR are the initials of the names of her children. The initiative seeks to offer a ray of hope and light to needy people. Helping others She uses her social platforms as personal blog to share her daily activities, life and experiences with her family and children. She decided to help her followers to find jobs by sharing job opportunities available. This is strictly done on Wednesdays. “Due to the harsh economy, we are experiencing today, people just want money, but the truth is you cannot afford to give out money every day, hence an easier way is to teach them how to fish —help them find jobs that will sustain them and help them get money on a flow that never stops. Instead of giving them money once, you better give them something that is going to keep generating an income and encourage them to keep going,” she says. As time went by, the number of followers increased and she thought of a way of reaching out to the needy in society. “My family, with help of like-minded people decided to start a monthly course of helping needy people. As a family, we decided to help one person each month with a little token of Sh1,500. The only way I would reach out to these people was through the social platforms because choosing deserving people is difficult when you are not on the ground. I decided to collaborate with one, Winnie Juma, who was to identify the needy people and give them this token,” she explains. Once she advertised this initiative, volunteers came up and said they wanted to top up the amount so that deserving peoVictor Owaka, his wife Florence Akumu, and their children Tristan, Seth and Ruby. PD/COURTESY every single day,” she says. “Children tend to imitate what people do. I am glad that they are seeing whatever is happening around us, and around them, in my presence and they are able to do it. I correct, punish, encourage and appreciate them on the spot. We may not be there all the time, especially for those who have started school, but when they are back from school, we recap on the day’s activities. It’s fulfilling to feel like the whole of their childhood is the whole of yours. Technically, it’s the one-on-one with them without missing any single bit,” she shares. According to the mother of three, bringing up children requires one to set some parental rules that will guide them through the parenting journey. Modelling courtesy She offers: “One thing I have learnt to exercise is to validate their feelings. Anytime they tell me I have hurt them, or I am being mean or unfair to them, I feel the need to explain to them why I have portrayed that character at that time. I have learnt to accommodate their feelings and listen to them, assure and reassure them, appreciate and correct them. I have made them understand why I punish them and the importance of having a good relationship as siblings.” Respect being paramount in the life of an individual, Florence has taught her children to respect people, or anybody that is around them. “For instance, they have been taught both at school and at home that greetings are important and so they tend to greet everybody, even strangers when they visit recreational places. They actually feel bad when they greet you and you don’t return their greetings!” she says. Even as she journeys through motherhood, Florence is thankful to have a great support system in her husband. “We have walked this journey with him since the birth of our first child all the way to the current last one, and also through the grieving period of those I miscarried. My parents and parents- inlaw are all supportive,” she says. So what lessons does she draw from motherhood? “To mothers, your children don’t need a strong mother; they need a sane one. In whatever you do remember to stay sane for your children. Your sanity is very important in this journey,” she says in ending. Florence Akumu and her children. PD/ COURTESY DADDY’S DIARY WITH JUSTUS NJOROGE FLORENCE To mothers, your children don’t need a strong mother; they need a sane one. In whatever you do remember to stay sane for your children.

protocols manage exchanges, enable users to lend and borrow, and run Decentralised Autonomous Organisations (DAOs,” says Githiaka. Regulation and policy barriers He reveals that on a trial to solve this matter of partnering, they have tried to initiate conversations with local traditional banks, but the barriers have been regulations and policies, which he believes they will catch up with soon. He says: “In terms of the user experience, for most crypto-based services are open in that everyone is welcome to open an account. All you are given is 26 letters that gives you a digital identity that represents you in all you do in your DeFi eco-system. Anytime one sends you a transaction and you just miss one letter, that money goes to someone else and since DeFi is decentralised, there is no customer care services to help you follow up and these are some of the challenges.” However, Githiaka points out that they have tried to work on making some improvements to the user experience. “We have built collaborations with some traditional banks where these tools used by a user during transactions are linked with the banking service, which are all regulated as they operate on the centralised model. It will be easy to track your transactions when your bank details are tied with the ones of your digital wallet,” he says in conclusion. Fintech as the future of transactions Eureka Design, innovate, engineer lives, fintech is a technology that improves our adoption of our financial services and how easily we can access these services to that last person far in the village,” he says. John Frank Githiaka is the chief executive of Benkiko, a blockchainbased digital bank that powers the digital economy by enabling people to send money and pay online. He says cryptocurrency, a type of DeFi, is gradually changing social organisations’ payment networks, as well as bringing in new procedures in the digital forum. Githiaka is of the school of thought that DeFi adds value to financial inclusion and financial freedom in Africa. Financial inclusion ”DeFi it’s trying to remove the need for a currency where I can sell what I have to another party, as the other party can also sell to me what they have. It is essentially just like barter trade, but at this point, you get more advantaged as one can access even more through their smartphones. One is also not limited to a connection since by just having an internet-enabled smartphone, you can connect to someone from afar and complete your transactions,” says Githiaka. Kebaya opines that the term “financial inclusion” has been overused and it has lost its meaning with time and should be replaced by “financial participation”. He says, “DeFi allows the sense that we are providing alternative ways for people to participate in the economics without a central body. I feel like DeFi will not be a threat to traditional banks in any way. DeFi complements the traditional banking not replacing it.” Fintech WG chairperson and CBDC Bank of Zambia lead researcher Dr Kombe Kaponda mentions some of the Financial technology is currently one of the hot topics in the arena of modern technologies, with Decentralised Finance taking the centrestage As part of its ongoing efforts to promote digital transformation at the county level, Safaricom has entered into a partnership with the Lake Region Economic Bloc (LREB) to implement various initiatives aimed at accelerating the region’s adoption of technology. The initiatives, which will be implemented under myCounty App, will include digitising the counties, enabling solutions, provision of protected technology, and transforming lives through Safaricom’s Social Good Investments in LREB counties. The telco says it will provide connectivity for county sites, bridge the citizen digital divide, actualise the digital superhighway through fibre connectivity, offer revenue and healthcare management, public WiFi, vouchers for services, secure employee communication, safeguard citizen data, and offer cyber security to the 14 counties within the LREB region. “We cannot achieve our vision to be a purpose-led technology company by 2025 without deliberate and strategic collaboration with both the county and national government. This partnership with the LREB signifies a clear intention on our part to co-create with the county governments to digitise devolution,” said Safaricom customer obsession director Lucille Aveva. The County Government of Makueni has already adopted the myCounty App while Elgeyo Marakwet and Nairobi counties have signed a deal with Safaricom to integrate the App. MyCounty App is a digital platform that will enable all 47 counties to digitise their services and operations through a single, citizen access channel. The platform seeks to ease public access to county services such as payment of parking and single business permits, among others. “LREB welcomes the opportunity to partner with Safaricom in a bid to bring technology solutions closer home. Technology continues to play a significant role in achieving a functional devolved government. We are hopeful that our people will soon begin to reap the fruits of this agreement and unlock the economic potential of our counties,” said Kisumu Governor LREB chairman Anyang’ Nyong’o. The counties constituting the Lake Region bloc include Bomet, Bungoma, Busia, Homa Bay, Kakamega, Kericho, Kisii, Kisumu, Migori, Nandi, Nyamira, Siaya, Trans Nzoia and Vihiga. -Adalla Allan BRIEFLY by Adalla Allan @adalla_allan W ith the raging discussions about Decentralised Finance (DeFi), there has been increasing threats that this new financial technology (fintech) paradigm will lead to a collapse of the centralised financial institutions, especially banks. Banks and other financial companies charge high transaction fees, but DeFi eliminates such fees by promoting the use of Peerto-Peer (P2P) transactions. Many users are now shifting from using the normal bank currency and opting for DeFi such as crypto. A conversation held recently at the 10th Pan Africa Bank 4.0 Summit in Nairobi saw a panel of fintech experts discuss how DeFi fits in fintech has affected traditional banking. Kebaya Mwamba, one of the panelists and the founding CEO of Hela Money, a blockchain platform that sends digital assets around the world, defines DeFi as a new financial model that leverages distributed ledger technologies to offer services such as lending, investing, or exchanging crypto assets without relying on a traditional centralised intermediary. Blockchain technologies “DeFi involves various activities that are built along blockchain that does not need a central authority to enable a smart contract, as the system works in a P2P model. As such, if two peers can agree to execute a transaction, it can be done without the need for a third-party central authority. From the term fintech, which itself means financial technology, where technology is any service that improves Telco enters pact to digitise 14 counties in the Lake Region Economic Bloc 24 PEOPLE DAILY / Wednesday, May 17, 2023 GITHIAKA In our local setup, the number of collaborations and partnerships between banks and DeFi platforms is not encouraging shortcoming of the adoption of the DeFi. “The adoption of DeFi can be a bit disruptive since it is decentralised. As for the traditional banks, they are largely centralised and this means that it is easy to monitor things like safety and consumer protection. A decentralised model becomes a bit more risky on such matters. However, the advantage of DeFi is that you don’t need to invest more in infrastructure such as the centralised currencies,” he says. Githiaka adds that it’s high time for local banks to partner with DeFi platforms to adapt to digital assets like their peers abroad. “In our local setup, the number of collaborations and partnerships between banks and DeFi platforms is not encouraging. In the international markets, it is happening where you find a bank using crypto and other digital assets. So far, I have seen MoneyGram partnering with a digital asset company where one cashes in or out their digital assets. “DeFi are usually built on top of existing public protocols. DeFi protocol is a set of codes that govern how digital assets are used on a blockchain network. Tapping smart contracts and virtual machines (VMs), DeFi Safaricom customer obsession director, Lucille Aveva exchanges the MoU with Siaya Governor James Orengo. COURTESY John Frank Githiaka. Dr Kombe Kaponda. Kebaya Mwamba.

Wednesday, May 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY 25 Taboo Let’s talk about it In many cultures, it was the responsibility of the man’s family to pay bride price. But nowadays, it’s not unusual to receive a message from longlost friends asking for support for thair ruracio. Elders warn that this can be the beginning of a downfall of many marriages Mejja Kamau Rise of ‘bromance’ by Milliam Murigi @millymur1 R ecently, Mary Mwangi, who is in her 40s, received three fundraising invites on WhatsApp. Upon scrutinising the invites, she realised that two of them were from her friends who were fundraising for their bride price. This was like a joke to her. She couldn’t understand why someone would want friends to help her husband raise money to pay her bride price. From what she knows, in Kikuyu culture, bride price is supposed to be paid by the man with the help of his father and uncles, and if they are not in a position, they can involve the clan.  “I declined both invites and went ahead to let my friends know that whatever they were doing was wrong and a taboo according to the Kikuyu culture. I also explained to my friends that women should not pay or contribute to their bride price. But they insisted that those are outdated beliefs,” she shares. No blessings Nowadays, it is common to ind oneself invited to various groups to support someone pay bride price. But is it right culturally to pay bride price using money contributed by friends? Are there consequences? Mejja Kamau from Murang’a says that according to Gikuyu culture, this is a taboo. “This is because money collected from friends has no blessings since you have no idea where they got it from,” he explains. This is not a Gikuyu tradition alone. In most of our traditional African cultures, it was the man’s family’s responsibility to pay the bride price and not their friends. Media personality Levi Kones says that even from Kalenjin community, a man is supposed to pay for bride price, and if one is helped to pay it by his friends, Conventional wisdom says the friendships between adult men are a cold, inhospitable place devoid of nurturing or emotional support. But researchers at the University of Sydney in Australia and the University of Westminster in the UK report that changing cultural norms are leading to a rise in ‘bromances’. They also say the crisis in loneliness among men has been significantly overblown, despite earning widespread media coverage. Assumed signs of aggression, like offensive comments and mocking banter, can actually be signs of real closeness, according to sociologist Alex Broom and his coauthor Damien Ridge, a practicing psychotherapist at Westminster. “It’s true that men often relate to others differently than women,” they write. By focusing on the relative lack of verbal expression to suggest that male friendships are not close, they argue, we then do not see how men demonstrate closeness less obviously, in coded ways, or even silently.’ In movies and TV, a quick joke between mates can be seen as a deflection: men avoiding the serious stuff by making light of it. But Broom and Ridge have found that the truth is often the exact opposite. They unpacked their theory, after examining peer-reviewed academic literature on male-bonding from the past two decades. They cite in-depth interviews with a sample of 30 Israeli military men, conducted by a behavioral scientist at Tel Aviv University, which found that humor — even insults — were often used to foster a sense of togetherness. The vets described ‘humorous interactions involving idioms, nicknames, curses, nonsense talk, aggressive gestures, and embraces,’ according to the study, ‘staged publicly under the guise of instrumental action.’ But all these unclear messages on duty, according to the researchers, were like a tease designed to engage their fellow servicemen and draw them closer into real friendships.Grabbing a beer is a classic excuse for men to open up and express themselves, and the researchers noted it was one of several changes of venue that helped men get their bromantic partners to open up. ‘Lads will only talk when there’s beer on board, you know,” one subject told the researchers, “when the guard is down.” But the pub wasn’t the only option. In fact, Broom and Ridge found that men could build emotional intimacy everywhere from volunteer organizations to DIY workshops and hobby groups. “We believe creating more of these safe zones for young men is key,” they write. -Daily Mail BRIEFLY those friends can also claim your wife. “Bride price is an intimate thing and should only be left to the groom and his closest people. Creating a general WhatsApp group for your own bride price fundraiser is a ‘no no’. Where I am from, if we help you with the bride price, we can help ourselves to your wife,” shared Kones on Facebook. Kamau says nowadays people are creating more than one WhatsApp group to fundraise so that they can collect as much money as possible, but what young men and women need to know is that bride price payment should not be a ceremony to show the bride’s parent how wealthy the groom is, but to seek blessing from bride’s father or clan and to cement the two families’ relationship. “It is a man’s responsibility to pay the bride price for his wife. Friends should come in as witnesses. Their contribution towards the bride price should not be an obligation, but a kind gesture, a top-up and not the main contribution,” he says. He adds, “Making bride price matters communal has ruined so many things, invited curses such as unknown sickness, and made people go against their cultures. For example in Kikuyu land, some parents are now receiving more bride price than what was paid for them, yet according to the traditions, bride price is determined by the amount of bride price that her father paid for her mother,” he explains In other cases, some parents receive this gift for a younger daughter, even in instances where the older sisters’ bride price has not been paid, which is against Kikuyu traditions. Gikuyu marriage customs dictate that the elder daughters’ bride price needs to be paid before the same is paid for their younger siblings. Show-off  “According to the Gikuyu tradition, even one goat is enough to pay bride price since this process lasts a lifetime. The team also need not be accompanied by hundreds of people for this ceremony. To me, the modern-day kind of bride price payment is just a show-off and a money-making venture,” he adds. He reveals that because of such matters, that is why today there are so many marital problems. The reason is, not everyone involved in the whole process has good intentions for the couple.“Fundraising to pay bride price is wrong. Doing so exposes one’s wife to everybody who participated in that process. It also reduces the husband’s authority to command anything in his house,” said David Muthoga, national Vice Chairperson of the Kikuyu Council of Elders. The man should not even disclose the amount he will raise and how much he has raised from other sources so that the wife will never feel indebted to the clan or his friends. If this is adhered to, the wife will always know that the man raised all the cash used for her bride price. “Ordinarily the man’s clan is supposed to negotiate and pay the bride price. The groom’s father is particularly supposed to pay Ewe and hegoat (mwati na harika). Friends can only support the endeavour, but the man and his clan should lead the process and not the other way round,” adds Muthoga. KAMAU Making bride price matter communal has ruined so many things, invited curses such as unknown sickness, and made people go against their cultures. Fundraising for bride price could be source of your marital woes Fundraising to pay bride price is wrong, according to many cultures. PD/COURTESY David Muthoga

PEOPLE DAILY / Wednesday, May 17, 2023 26 ENTERTAINMENT ARIES (MAR. 21- APRIL 20) Your family may not be pleased with your decisions. Get involved in sports groups or hobbies that attract you. Travel will also be very informative. TAURUS (APR. 21- MAY 21) Children will be of major concern if you haven’t kept the lines of communication open. You will learn a great deal from the foreigners you meet. GEMINI (MAY 22-JUNE 21) Self-improvement could bring amazing results. Unreliable people will be negative about your ideas. CANCER (JUNE 22-JULY 22) You have made an accurate assessment of the situation and have come up with ideas that will save money. LEO (JULY 23-AUG 22) Be careful not to hurt the ones you love. Rather than making a scene, communicate quietly about the way you feel. You are exceptional at presenting your ideas. VIRGO (AUG. 23 -SEPT. 23) The stamina you possess will be apparent in your approach to your hobbies and creative projects. LIBRA (SEPT. 24 -OCT. 23) You may have a tendency to put on weight. Someone you work with could have a personal interest in you. You might have a problem hanging on to your money today. SCORPIO (OCT. 24 - NOV. 22) You need to look into ways to change your self-image. You can get ahead if you are willing to take a partner. Be creative in your pursuits. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 -DEC. 21) Secret affairs will only lead to deception. Don’t push your opinions on others today or you may ind yourself in the doghouse. CAPRICORN (DEC 22.- JAN. 20) Go out with close friends who understand your situation and your needs. Your reputation may be at stake if you partake in gossip. AQUARIUS (JAN. 21 -FEB. 19) Go out with close friends who understand your situation and your needs. Females may put demands or added responsibilities on you. PISCSCES (FEB. 20-MAR. 20) Keep your eyes and ears alert for any evasive or deceptive statements. You will be extremely sentimental, and if pushed by others you may hold a lasting grudge. You will get along well in social situations. HOROSCOPES LIFE’S LIKE THAT! | BY TUM Sudoku The aim is to ill the grid so that each row, column and every 3x3 shaded box contains only one of the digits 1-9. You need to reason out where to place the missing numbers by using the numbers given in the grid and a process of elimination. It is a game of logic not mathematical ability. YESTERDAY’S SOLUTION ACROSS 1. TV presenter, ___ Madeley (7) 7. Lag behind (5) 8. Stylish (7) 9. Aboriginal American (6) 11. Damn on the Nile (5) 13. Bivouac (4) 14. British PM in 1908 (7) 15. Indolent (4) 16. Brave woman? (5) 17. Oral (6) 21. Pied Piper’s town (7) 22. Snooker player, ___ White (5) 23. Chinese root (7) DOWN 2. Draw pictures (10) 3. New Year’s Eve in Scotland (8) 4. Ladder-step (4) 5. Country bordering Iraq (4) 6. Island group capital Suva (4) 9. Hale ___, US golfer (5) 10. Respect (10) 12. Identical (5) 13. Country residence of PM (*) 18. Destory (4) 19. Highest point (4) 20. Desert river valley (4) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 8 5 4 7 5 6 1 1 9 6 8 4 8 2 1 2 7 4 3 6 8 5 2 9 4 9 1 6 5 2 4 2 4 8 1 4 1 7 6 9 3 8 5 2 6 2 3 8 5 7 1 9 4 8 5 9 1 4 2 7 6 3 3 4 2 5 1 8 9 7 6 9 7 1 4 2 6 5 3 8 5 6 8 7 3 9 4 2 1 7 3 5 2 8 1 6 4 9 1 9 4 3 6 5 2 8 7 2 8 6 9 7 4 3 1 5 5:00 France 24 5.05 Maombi 5:30 Gear Up 6:00 Good Morning Kenya 10:00 NewsCheck 1:00 KBC Lunch time News 2:00 Cynthia Nyamai 2:30 Disco Funk 3:00 Animation 5:00 Club 1 6:30 Drama 7:00 Taarifa 7:30 Maza 8:00 I Dare You To Leave 9:00 KBC Channel 1 News 10:30 The Rave 11:00 CGTN 12:30 France 24 5.00 Password Plus 6.00 Am Live 8.00 Better Living 9.00 On The Wings Of Love 10.00 Music Mix 11.00 NTV Today 1.00 NTV at 1 1.30 Music Mix 3.00 Blood Sisters 3.30 The Three Sides Of Ana - Rpt 4.00 NTV At 4 4.15 Password Plus 5.00 The Heat 6.00 It Had To Be You 7.00 NTV Jioni 8.00 Forever My Love 9.00 NTV Tonight 10.00 Movie 11.00 Music Mix 12.00 CNN 06:00 Your Motor Week 06:30 Command Your Morning 07:00 Afrimaxx 09:00 Tendereza 09:30 News Hour 10:00 Afriscreen 12:00 Amplify 12:30 The killer Bride 1:00 News Desk 1.30 Sports Legends 2:00 Afriscreen 3:30 Akili & Me 4:00 Mbiu Ya KTN 4:10 Winx Club 6:00 Prima Donnas 7:00 KTN Leo 7:30 Sports legends 8:00 Whats your story 9:00 KTN Friday Briefing 10:21 Movie 10:30 Movie 11:00 Baseline 1.00 Aljazeera 4:00 Pambazuka 05:30 PE At Home 06:00 Day Break 09:00 Cartoons Animation 10:00 Music Mix generic 15:00 Afrosinema 11:00 Sema Na Citizen 11:15 Afrosinema 12:15 Afrosinema 13:00 Sema Na Citizen 14:00 Mseto Africa 15:00 The Neighbour 15:54 Supa Sema 16:00 News Brief 16:15 PE At Home 17:30 Rubi 18:30 Machachari 19:00 Nipashe 19:30 Sultana 20:00 Vencer El Desamor 21:00 JK Live 23:05 Mis Fortuna El Marte 00:00 Afrosinema 01:00 News Night KBC KTN CITIZEN NTV 5.00 Ime Ria Ruciini 6.00 Rikiratha 10.00 Kurekereria Kodi- Live 12.00 Ndurumeni Maturaini 1.00 Mohoro Gitau-Live 1.30 Kayu Ka Ruriri- Rpt 2.00 Thiririka 3.00 Kiengei Live- Rpt 4.00 Ririmbuka- Live 6.00 Maisha Bure- Rpt 6.30 Magerio- Rpt 7.00 Kameme Maturaini- Live 7.30 Njungwa Ya Muthee Kihenjo 8.30 Maisha Bure 9.00 Mutamburuko Wa Mohoro- Live 10.00 Lotto- Live 10.15 Thenema 11.30 Ririmbuka 12.30 DW 7.00 Inuka 6.00 New Dawn 8.00 K24 This Morning 9.55 Wisdom Moments 10.05 Inuka 11.00 Mchipuko 1.00 K24 News Cut 1.30 Jungu La Spoti 2.00 Bongo Movie 3.00 Ubongo Kids 3.30 Akili & Me 4.00 K24 Mashinani 4.30 Inuka- Rpt 5.00 Beat Box 6.00 Documentary 7.00 K24 Saa Moja 7.30 After Wedding 9.00 Brazil Avenue 9.00 K24 Evening Edition 10.00 Lotto- Live 10.20 Bongo Movie 11.50 Al Jazeera Timeout Sudoku solutions 8.00pm BRAZIL AVENUE ACROSS 1. Bridgetown 8. Air Line 9. Begin 10. Ally 11. Ming 12. Roc 14. Turner 15. Hawaii 18. Ohm 20. Norm 21. Writ 23. Hague 24. Groucho 25. Fahrennheit DOWN 1. Burglar 2. Iris 3. Gaelic 4. Toboggan 5. Wager 6. Catastrophe 7. Inscription 13. Reindeer 16. Apricot 17. Dragon 19. Magma 22. Lone

Wednesday, May 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY CLASSIFIEDS / NOTICES 27

by Charles Thuku @PeopleSports11 Faith Urasa and Stacey Chepkemei lost their respective girls’ singles first-round matches as Kenyan players continued their learning process against superior foreign opposition at the ongoing International Tennis Federation (ITF) World Tour at Parklands Sports Club yesterday. Whilst Urasa lost 6-0, 6-0 to Ishi Maheshwari of India, Chepkemei succumbed 6-2, 6-0 to Amelia Drozd from Poland in the world ranking tournament which concludes on Friday. Urasa, who sat for his O-Levels at Shadrack Kimalel Secondary School last year, said she is elated at having garnered experience by playing topnotch players and that she can only get better. She offered: “People should not read too much into the results. I think by playing more such matches, I will gather the requisite experience while readying myself to join the senior ranks. I have been down before and I don’t really give up.” The 17-year-old featured was featured in a previous ITF Circuit at Nairobi Club last January - where she lost 6-2, 6-2 to Israel’s Pony Inbar, currently ranked 959th in the world. Like Urasa, Chepkemei said she has picked a lot of positives ever since the tournament started last Saturday. “It has been interesting playing against experienced foreign players. I even feel proud to have plucked points against them. Kenyan players need more of such tournaments if the country is to excel in Davis Cup and Fed Cups,” said Chepkemei who was groomed by veteran coach Veronica Osogo. Kenya’s Kabutha to take over East Africa netball leadership by Shadrack Andenga @PeopleSports11 Kenya Netball Federation (KNF) Chairperson Immaculate Kabutha will take over the presidency of the East Africa Netball Association (EANA) on Saturday. Speaking exclusively to People Daily on Monday, during the ongoing East Africa Netball Club Championships in Nairobi, Kabutha was upbeat about Kenya’s future. “According to the East Africa Netball Association constitution, when you host these games automatically the host federation chair becomes the regional association president for a term not exceeding one year. This is an opportunity now for Kenya to reign supreme in Africa,” Kabutha said and added that Kenya needs more international exposure. KNF has been grappling with not having a proper league and not popularizing the sport within schools and colleges due to the available poor infrastructure and inadequate indoor facilities. “My new position will enable me to bring on board more partners and sponsors so that we can also get going indoor training fields and stadia. I will also be engaging the government heavily on this matter,” the KNF chairperson said. Currently, Kenya has the Kenya Prisons and Kenya Defense Forces (KDF) teams in the leagues. Despite facing challenging matches in the ITF World Tour, local side remain upbeat Kenya Netball Federation (KNF) Chairperson Immaculate Kabutha. PHOTO: SHADRACK ANDENGA Kenyan tennis players learn lessons at home Faith Urasa of Kenya in action yesterday against Ishi Maheshwari of India at Parklands Sports Club. PHOTO: PHILIP KAMAKYA Jackson Okiya (left), a boxing coach in Vihiga County posing for a photo with one of the boxers at a past event. PD/ENOCK AMUKHALE Zetech Sparks players during a training session. PD/ENOCK AMUKHALA Boxing coaches want rogue officials kicked out of sport VIHIGA: Vihiga county governor Wilber Ottichilo has promised to streamline boxing which is currently facing poor management by the office put in place. While addressing the boxing coaches and managers yesterday in Vihiga county Ottichilo said that he is committed to succour boxing in the county. The boxing leaders had paid the governor a courtesy call and took the opportunity to air their grievances. Ottichilo asserted: “Vihiga County is a home of many sporting talents. We have the potential of producing international boxers if the boxing sport is well managed.” Ottichilo held a consultative meeting with Bunyore boxing coaches who want his - through the sports department - to eject those officials representing boxers in the county saying that they are the reason why boxing is performing poorly. -Enock Amukhale FOOTBALL: Hard-fighting Zetech Sparks shocked their host Bunyore Starlets after they trounced them 1-3 in a nail-biting match played at Mumboha playing grounds. The well-charged Zetech Sparks ladies strikers put Bunyore Starlets defence on pressure something that resulted in three goals touchingthe net. ZetechSparks coach Benard Kitolo praised his charges - especially the defence - for stopping the marauding Bunyore Starlets strikers from penetrating their goal. “I praise my girls for the impressive performance and we want to move on with the same winning spirit. “We are in a critical situation and we must be keen not to lose any of our matches to evade relegation,” Kitolo said. ZetechSparks conquered Bunyore Starlets despite the visitors being reduced to 10, following Stellah Aono’s sending-off in the first half. Ben Kitolo hinted that his team is now working on how to fight the relegation threat by improving their performance. Kitolo said that though his team has been posting dismal performances in the Kenya Women’s Premier League (KWPL), he is still determined to remain afloat in the league. On the other hand, Bunyore Starlets’ assistant coach Absalom Mariga decried a tight schedule in the Kenya Women’s Premier League for his team’s poor performance. -Enock Amukhale 28 PEOPLE SPORT FOR MORE NEWS VISIT: www.pd.co.ke / www.epaper. pd.co.ke THE ONE-STOP SPORT SHOP Wednesday, May 17, 2023 Zetech Sparks whip Bunyore Starlets STACEY CHEPKEMEI It has been interesting playing against experienced foreign players.

Wednesday, May 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY PEOPLE SPORT 29 Kenyan youngster Brayan Oyoo is steadily rising in a sport that has the potential to establish the country as a powerhouse in the game on the global stage by Dennis Mabuka @PeopleSports11 Kakamega Homeboyz chairman Cleophas Shimanyula has issued a rallying cry to AFC Leopards supporters, urging them to come prepared with a good supply of painkillers as the fierce rivals gear up for a massive showdown in the exhilarating semi-finals of the highlyanticipated Mozzart Bet FKF Cup this Saturday. The two Western rivals will meet again in the Ingo derby at Nyayo Stadium with the winner sailing through to the final of the domestic competition. Ahead of the fixture, Shimanyula stated that his young side will prove to Kenyans why they are the best ahead of AFC and went further to urge all Ingwe fans to stock painkillers and blood pressure drugs because “we will teach them a lesson they will never forget.” “AFC Leopards must be ready for a beating, they must get prepared to lose and nothing is going to stop us (Homeboyz) from beating them,” Shimanyula told People Daily Sports. He continued: “My only worry, for now, is for AFC fans, if you know you suffer from pressure issues please take your medicine before coming to the stadium, and you should also carry painkillers to consume after the game, it will be a total massacre that they will regret to watch.” Shimanyula further said the last four battles will bring to an end the debate of who is the best between Homeboyz and AFC Leopards. “By the end of Saturday’s match, we will know who between Homeboyz and AFC is the best, we will beat them in front of their fans, and we will show them how to play football, I want their fans to come in large numbers and witness their team losing. I am happy the game will be played at Nyayo Stadium, which is a good venue with a nice playing surface for my boys to show them (AFC) how to play football, our focus is to win the trophy, and we want to beat AFC and win in the final,” Shimanyula added. Homeboyz vanquished Kariobangi Sharks 6-1 in the quarter-finals to make it to the last four while AFC thumped Bandari 3-0 to sail through. The other semi-final clash will pit Tusker against Ulinzi Stars. Leopards fans in dire need of painkillers, Shimanyula warns AFC Leopards fans celebrating during a past match. PD/SPORT PICHA by Dennis Mabuka @PeopleSports11 Kenya international Michael Olunga missed out on the Best Player of the Season award in the just-concluded Qatar Stars League (QSL) season. The towering Harambee Stars forward got nominated for the prestigious award alongside Al Sadd, left winger Akram Afif and Tunisia international Youssef Msakni, who features for Al Arabi, on loan from AlDuhail. However, during the Qatar Football Association’s (QFA) Awards ceremony to recognize the top performers of the 2022- 23 season that was held at the Qatar National Convention Centre on Sunday, Msakni was named the best player while his coach Younes Ali scooped the best coach honours. Olunga enjoyed a good season, finding the back of the net 22 times to retain the Golden Boot Award ahead of Al Arabi striker Omar Al Somah, who managed only 19 goals. Though the former Gor Mahia striker was snubbed for the Best Player award, he was feted with the coveted Mansour Muftah Award for top scorer - for the second consecutive year. Last season, Olunga clinched the Golden Boot ahead of Al Sadd and Ghana international Andre Ayew after notching 24 goals from 22 appearances while in his first season at Duhail where he featured for only nine matches and scored six goals. Olunga, who helped the Red Knights to lift the league title, the Ooredoo Cup, and Qatar Cup besides the Falcon Shield, has promised to bag a hat-trick of awards next season. “I want to thank Omar Al Somah (Al Arabi) and Gelson Dala (Al Wakrah) to make it a tough competition (for the top scorer award) for me. It enabled me to help Al Duhail win three trophies,” Olunga offered. Kenya’s football great Olunga secures top scorer’s title, misses best player award Kenyan Striker Michael Olunga during the Mansoor Muftah Award where he was awarded as the top scorer in the QSL. PD/SPORT PICHA Basketball star’s tale of success on court by Lucky Oluoch @LuckyOluoch For Brayan Oyoo, the sound of a basketball bouncing is a signal for him to change his outfit and bring out his competitive side on the court. Oyoo is one of the colossal young people from Mombasa who have opted to plump for 3-on-3 basketball which is rapidly expanding in the country. Whereas many basketball players taking part in 3 on 3 competitions make a transition from league basketball, Oyoo’s transition was a teetering one as he previously played football and was only a distant lover of the game. “Besides the football pitch that I used to play football was a basketball court. I guess it’s how I admired the game, and the push from a family member is what made me play basketball. I never imagined I would reach this level in basketball - let alone play the game,” Oyoo avers. Despite cherishing and relishing football, the dextrous basketball player hardly earned a spot in the main football team as he was prone to injuries. He opines: “When I used to play football, I was prone to a lot of injuries in the field; I was always a substitute because of injuries and I was in and out of the hospital most of the time. After joining basketball, however, things changed for the better as I can now play the game without having to worry about watching on the sidelines most of the time for injuries. The most important thing is that it (basketball) has created doors for me to travel out of the country and, still, job opportunities came through, although for short terms.” Since making the switch to basketball, he has had the opportunity to participate in most of the basketball tournaments in the country with the most recent one being the Mombasa edition of the Red Bull Half Court – with the world finals scheduled to take place in Belgrade, Serbia later on this year. Just like other sports in the country with snowballing progress despite facing financial hurdles, basketball in Kenya is slowly taking shape as a sport that has the potential to establish itself as a powerhouse on the global stage – a space that has for the longest time been inhabited by athletics. The year 2022 was a good year for the Basketball space in the country. In July the country hosted the U23 Nations League tournament at the Nyayo National Stadium where teams from Uganda, Benin, Rwanda, and Botswana participated. Winners of the tournament got an opportunity to represent the country in Hungary where Kenya was represented by Madina Okot, Alex Juma, Jacqueline Kogo, and Yvonne Akinyi. Just after the U23 Nations League, Kenya sent a team to represent the country in the Birmingham games. With another contingent representing the country in the World Championship that was held in Cairo Egypt between the 1st and 2nd of December. Even with these developments taking place, upcoming basketball players like Oyoo believe there is still more to be done. BRAYAN OYOO When I used to play football, I was prone to a lot of injuries in the ield; I was always a substitute because of injuries and I was in and out of the hospital most of the time MICHAEL OLUNGA I want to thank Omar Al Somah (Al Arabi) and Gelson Dala (Al Wakrah) for making it a tough competition (for top scorer award) for me

NAIROBI: Experienced forwards Sheila Chajira, Enid Ouma and Mercy Migongo return to the Lionesses squad that will do duty at the Rugby Africa Women’s First Division Competition in Madagascar between May 18 and 29. Chajira, who has been handed the captaincy, returns for the first time since the South Africa – Kenya clash in Stellenbosch in August 2021 and is one of 11 changes made by Head Coach Dennis Mwanja from the squad that won the 2022 Rugby Africa Women’s Pool B tournament in Kampala, Uganda. The other changes are Ouma, Migongo, Diana Awino, Valentine Atieno, Nelly Chikombe, Lewin Mwevezi, Mercy Migongo, Sinaida Mokaya, Hellen Anyango, Mitchelle Akinyi and Freshia Oduor. Commenting on the squad’s selection, Mwanja, a former Kenya Sevens and Fifteens international, said: “We are quietly confident as we look at a bright future for the Lionesses. We want to take our sport at the top level of rugby because for so long we have fallen short.-Alex Njue Liverpool, Tuesday @PeopleDailyKe Jurgen Klopp vowed Liverpool will maintain the pressure in the race for the Champions League after a routine 3-0 win at Leicester. Curtis Jones’ quickire double and Trent AlexanderArnold’s fabulous goal kept their push for the top four alive while plunging the Foxes closer to the drop. Second-bottom Leicester are two points from Premier League safety with two games left and go to Newcastle next Monday. Victory means Liverpool have booked European football next season and they sit ifth, a point behind Newcastle and Manchester United, who have both played a game less. Klopp said: “Our job is to keep the pressure (on Newcastle and Manchester United), but if not this is already better than we could have expected six or seven weeks ago. “I have no clue what it means to us. Four or ive years ago we had Chelsea on our neck and they were winning all the time. I think it was the year we inished fourth and had to go in the qualiication. “We had to win the last game and until the last we had to win, win, win, because behind us they were always winning. “We made it anyway and that’s what I expect them to do as well, if I am honest. “But it keeps you on your toes and that’s our job – we have to keep them on their toes and then we will see what happens. -FotMob Liverpool’s Curtis Jones reacts after scoring his goal againsst Leicester City Liverpool still chasing top-four spot, says Klopp 30 PEOPLE SPORT PEOPLE DAILY / Wednesday, May 17, 2023 INSIDE Sport FOOTBALL pagE 29 Olunga beaten by Msakni to Qatar’s Best Player of the Season award ATHLETICS pagE 31 Omanyala ready to face Kerley, Jacobs and Bromell at Wanda Diamond League on June 2 3-1 REAL BETIS Sabaly 5’ Perez 44’ Iglesias 90+6’ Spanish La Liga FRANKFURT Comesana 52’ ROME: Defending champion Novak Djokovic reached his 17th successive Italian Open quarter-final with a tense victory over British Number One Cameron Norrie. The Serb, who will be replaced as world number one by Carlos Alcaraz next week, won 6-3 6-4 in Rome. The mood in a tetchy encounter worsened in the second set when Norrie smashed an overhead into the ankle of Djokovic, who had already given up the point. Djokovic faces seventh seed Holger Rune or qualifier Alexei Popyrin next. The Serb’s preparation for the French Open has been disrupted by injury but he is finding form in time for his bid for a 23rd Grand Slam singles title when it starts on 28 May. Having delayed the start of the match for a few minutes while he was in the treatment room, Djokovic then wasted no time in racing into a 3-0 lead. - BBC NAIROBI: Solid Rock Promotions hosted a successful boxing event at Charter Hall in Nairobi at the weekend in a night of full-blown action which attracted hundreds. The main event of the evening was a heavyweight bout between Morris Okola of Kenya and Yannick of DRC. Okola, who is the current Heavyweight Title Holder in East Africa, put on a dominant performance and knocked out his opponent with a powerful left hook in just one minute and one second. The fans went wild on the TKO. The Super MiddleWeight Category proved to be quite the bout with Denzel Onyango of Kenya slightly defeating Kenneth Lukyamuzi of Uganda after the full eight rounds. -Barry Silah TENNIS Novak Djokovic beats Cameron Norrie to reach quarter-finals BOXING Solid Rock promotions host successful boxing city event RUGBY Chajira, Ouma, Migongo return as Lionesses head to Madagascar Getting better with age Five things you might not know about Robert Lewandowski, the striker who has won 12 league titles in the past 13 years Tuesday, Madrid @PeopleDailyKe Robert Lewandowski (pictured) is one of the most famous footballers on the planet and is the Gerd Müller Trophy winner for the Best Goalscorer of 2022, while he currently leading the Pichichi rankings in LaLiga Santander… but here are ive things you might not already know about Lewi! Lewandowski has won 12 league titles in the past 13 years The Polish striker is a winner. And, the evidence of that is in the fact that he has now won 12 league titles in the past 13 years of his career. Lewandowski won the Polish championship with Lech Poznaff in 2009/10, before winning the Bundesliga with Borussia Dortmund in 2010/11 and 2011/12. While he didn’t inish top of the table in 2012/13, he then won eight Bundesliga trophies in a row with Bayern Munich and has now become a champion of LaLiga Santander in 2022/23. He hails from a sporting family Lewandowski may be one of the best footballers on the planet, but he is not the only member of his family who has dedicated himself to sport professionally. His father, Krzysztof Lewandowski, is a former judo champion, while his mother, Iwona Lewandowska, was a professional volleyball player in Poland. Milena Lewandowski, his sister, followed in his mother’s footsteps and was capped by the Polish under-21 volleyball team. And don’t forget, Lewandowski is married to Anna Stachurska, a Polish karate star who won bronze at the 2009 World Karate Championships. He takes almost unreal care of his body Lewandowski’s goalscoring stats are only possible with a combination of talent and physical prowess, something the Pole takes care of almost to the extreme. His former teammate at Bayern Munich, and former Athletic Club star, Javi Martínez once said that at preseason camp he often tried to get Lewandowski to tr y some typical sweets he’d brought b a c k f r o m Sp a i n . T h e Polish striker constantly refused, in line with his strict diet. Lewandowski has stated on many occasions that he tries to control all factors that can determine his physical condition, even his sleeping positions, to minimise chances of injury and maximise his on-ield performance. A natural disaster changed the course of his career Back in 2010, in the summer of his move to B o r u s s i a D o r t m u n d , Lewandowski was due to travel to the UK to visit Blackburn Rovers’ facilities ahead of a proposed move to the second-tier English side. Lewandowski was excited about the opportunity to play in England, but his flight coincided with the eruption of the Icelandic volcano Eyjafjallajökull, an event that disrupted all air trafic in Europe for several weeks and prevented him from travelling. “Did it change my life? No doubt.”

Wednesday, May 17, 2023 / PEOPLE DAILY PEOPLE SPORT 31 by Dennis Mabuka @PeopleDailyKe Gor Mahia coach Johnathan McKinstry believes that his team still has a chance to regain leadership of the FKF Premier League and eventually win the league campaign despite losing 2-1 against AFC Leopards on Sunday. K’Ogalo’s quest to clinch a record 20th league title suffered a massive blow after goals from Victor Omune and Maxwell Otieno gave Ingwe their first victory against them in seven years and helped Tusker to keep the top spot on the 18- team table. The Brewers under coach Robert Matano had jumped to the summit after defeating Karibangi Sharks 1-0 in another hard-fought battle at the same venue on Saturday. McKinstry has refused to panic now that the Brewers are in control of the log with four matches to go insisting they will rectify the situation. “We have to go back and reflect [our defeat to AFC] but the guys must pick positives because we played a really good football on [Sunday], the lads played a very good game, I think we created a lot of chances and I don’t think any of my players had a bad performance,” McKinstry told People Daily Sports. “It is just one of those days, football can be cruel sometimes, so players will recover now and get ready and look the first majority of the season we have been chasing, for the last eight to nine games we have been on top, but the majority of the season we have been chasing, so look we know Tusker have a point ahead but what a great opportunity to rectify that in a couple of weeks’ time.” McKinstry rued the team’s missed penalty from lead striker Benson Omalla and further faulted the match officials for denying his side what he termed as a clear penalty in the second half. “We are very disappointed, we created a lot of chances, the AFC Leopards goalkeeper Lucas [Opiyo} pulled a couple of great, great saves, we could have possibly had another penalty, we missed a penalty,” added McKinstry. “I think if you at the replay on TV when Benson [Omalla] is through in goal in the second half and he is definitely pulled back but it was not given.” “But look, creating chances does not give you three points, it’s about putting the ball in the back, I don’t remember AFC Leopards creating a clear chance outside the penalty and the corner, but look they have scored the goals that get them three points, so we move on to next week and we have got another big game against Tusker.” Tusker will host Gor Mahia in what could decide the title race at Kasarani Annex on Sunday. by Vincent Voiyoh @PeopleDailyKe Kenya’s Ferdinand Omanyala, the world’s fastest man this year is set to go head-on with world champion Fred Kerley and Tokyo Olympic Games gold medallist Lamont Marcell Jacobs in Rabat and Florence Diamond League meets respectively. Omanyala who is in top shape is buoyed by his recent descent shows in various races including last weeks victory on home soil where he flowed world athletics 100m silver medalist Marvin Bracy of USA, clocking a world lead of 9.84 at the Absa Kip Keino Classic. In a press conference in Nairobi last Friday, Omanyala, 27, noted with absolute confidence that he is going to win every race he competes in this year, seemingly caring less on the level of competition he will be facing in the third and fourth of the lucrative Diamond League this year or even the World Athletics Championships in Budapest in August. His steadfast confidence could arguably be based on the fact that he has already tested the waters by facing both the world champion Kerly of USA and the Olympic champion Jacobs from Italy. Last year, again in Nairobi, Omanyala produced a remarkable performance that saw him dismantle Kerly at the Kip Keino Classic in time of 9.85 while the American settled for a second place after clocking 9.92. The Commonwealth Games champions over the distance trounced Jacob in France on 15 February during The World Indoor Tour meet. Omanyala set a new national record in 60m after registering a time of 60.54 seconds. When asked about the level of test he going to face in Rabat,Morocco and Florence, Italy,Omanyala has remained adamant that he sees no game in the listed athletes perhaps viewed as a potential litmus test for the Kenyan sprint star. “There are no people (competition) there. I have already faced them and beat them and currently we are not looking at the history regarding what they won last year, no. But also personally I don’t look at competitors in a race, I am just focusing on myself and racing against time. My main goal this year is to win every race and no one is going to beat me,” Omanyala said. On the concern of a probability losing shape before the main agenda that is winning a gold medal in Budapest, Omanyala says he scheduled his training towards the goal and to him every competition is equally important. Gor Mahia have a great opportunity to dislodge Tusker from top of the league, says McKinstry by Fred Likuyani @PeopleDailyKe Shan Adam (pictured) scored a brace to steer Kabkara FC to a 3-0 victory over Katelenyang in the Busia County League Zone A match whose second leg kicked off on Sunday. Adam put hosts Kabkara into the lead in the 35th minute before their partisan fans at Kabkara Primary School grounds to see his team take a 1-0 lead at the break. Zadayo Emojong made it 2-0 in the 49th minute before Adam complicated matters for the visitors with the third goal in the 78th minute. The victory retained hopes for Kabkara of finishing top three in the gruelling battle. Musokoto FC continued with their giant feat after edging Kekalet 1-0 at Musokoto Primary School with. Edwin Oronda scored the lone goal in the second half of the the thriller-a- minute encounter. Musokoto chairman, Boniface Wesonga whose only lose is against Katakwa FC and a draw away to Kekalet exuded confidence of winning the Zonal title and then proceed for the regional league next season. “ We are ready to host Katakwa which beat us in the first leg and we promise to turn the tables this time round. Our impressive performance is attributed to team discipline and motivation, coaches commitment and support from fans,” he said, adding that the main challenge facing them are financial constraints, sending an olive branch to well-wishers to come to their rescue. At Malaba Stadium, hosts Boca Junior were trounced 4-1 by visiting Kamolo FC. Edward Karani put Kamolo into the lead in the 5th minute before former top scorer and captain, Eugene Okello Omudek aka AFOBE10 added the second goal in the 40th minute to lead 2-0 at the break.. Samuel Waswa made it 3-0 a minute into the second half with Duncan Olubi completing the rout in the 71st minute. Boca’s consolation goal was scored by Samuel Jakait in the 92nd minute. Akobwait failed to sparkle at home, losing 1-0 to Kifaru at Akobwait Cha Primary School. The lone goal of the match was netted by. E. Philip in the 88th minute to earn them maximum points. FC Machakusi also failed to make use of homeground advantage, losing 2-0 to Kiriko at Machakusi Primary School. Kamuriai and Moding battled to a goalless draw at Kamuriai Primary School with Aboloi and Katakwa settling for a similar score at Aboloi Primary School. Following weekend matches, Musokoto consolidated their lead at the top of Zone A with 37 points from 14 matches. Kifaru are second on the log with 28 points from the same number of matches. Kabkara are third with 27 points, three ahead of Kamolo which lie fourth. Adam’s brace steers Kabkara to victory in Busia County It’s not over yet... Omanyala to face Kerley, Jacobs and Bromell at Wanda Diamond League Gor Mahia’s coach Jonathan McKinstry reacts on the touch line during a recent league match. PD/ RODGERS NDEGWA Kenyan sprinter Ferdinand Omanyala talks to journalists during a pre-race press conference last week. PD/ SPORTPICHA FKF PL LEAGUE STANDINGS: Team P W D L F A GD PTS 1. Tusker 30 19 7 4 39 20 19 64 2 Gor Mahia 30 18 9 3 45 18 27 63 3. Nzoia Sugar 30 17 9 4 40 18 22 60 4 Kenya Police 30 16 8 6 47 17 30 56 5. KCB 30 15 9 6 31 17 14 54 6. Bandari 30 14 6 10 38 26 12 48 7 AFC Leopards 30 13 9 8 28 19 9 45 8 Ulinzi Stars 30 11 11 8 31 30 1 44 9 KK Homeboyz 30 11 9 10 30 23 7 42 10 Posta Rangers 30 10 9 11 29 33 -4 39 11 K. Sharks 30 9 10 11 43 42 1 37 12 Sofapaka 30 8 11 11 28 33 -5 35 13 Bidco United 30 9 7 14 33 30 3 34 14 Talanta 30 7 10 13 30 44 -14 31 15 City Stars 30 7 9 14 30 39 -9 30 16 Wazito 30 5 8 17 19 47 -28 23 17 Mathare 30 7 1 22 24 59 -35 22 18 Vihiga Bullets 30 2 2 26 22 72 -50 8

Wednesday, May 17, 2023 / / / @PeopleDailyKe / / / People Daily Download QR Code app on Google Play and scan this QR code with your smart phone for pictures, videos and more stories 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. Manchester, Tuesday @PeopleDailyKe Following two moments of individual brilliance at the Santiago Bernabeu, Manchester City and Real Madrid renew hostilities at the Etihad Stadium for the second leg of their Champions League semi-final on Wednesday night. The teams reconvene at the Etihad on the back of a 1-1 draw in the Spanish capital, but only one can now potentially end the 2022-23 season as league champions and conquerors of Europe. Vinicius Junior set the bar high, and Kevin De Bruyne raised it even higher during Man City and Real Madrid’s opening affair at the Bernabeu last Tuesday, where a quintessential Champions League display from Los Blancos saw Carlo Ancelotti’s team undo the Citizens’ earlier hard work through a Vinicius rocket. The holders had drawn first blood when Man City looked the more likely to make the net ripple, but when Ancelotti’s men appeared destined to extend their lead, a sizzling strike from De Bruyne - displaying outrageous technique to pick out the bottom corner - ensured that Pep Guardiola’s side would take a draw back to their headquarters. Avoiding a Bernabeu beating was priority number one for Man City’s treble chasers, who will undeniably enter Wednesday’s second leg with the favourites tag embroidered on their shirts, and they navigated a potential banana skin of a Premier League affair against Everton with ease at the weekend. Former Leeds boss Bielsa named new Uruguay head coach MONTEVIDEO: Marcelo Bielsa has been appointed head coach of Uruguay’s national team on a deal that runs until the 2026 World Cup, the South American nation’s football association said on Tuesday. The 67-year-old replaces Diego Alonso, whose contract was terminated after Uruguay’s failure to progress beyond the group stage of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. “The Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) has named Marcelo Bielsa as the new coach of the national team on the road toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, the United States and Mexico,” read an AUF statement. This will be Bielsa’s first coaching job since he parted ways with Leeds United in February last year. He has also had spells in charge of the Argentina and Chile national teams.-Xinhua JERUSALEM: Maccabi Haifa secured Israel’s football Premier League title with a 5-1 away win against fifth-placed Maccabi Netanya on Monday evening. This marks the third consecutive championship title and the 15th overall for Haifa, who competed in the UEFA Champions League this season and will participate in the tournament’s qualifiers next season as well. In front of 14,000 fans at Netanya Stadium, attacking midfielder Dia Saba scored twice, while his teammates Tjarron Chery, Mohammed Abu Fani, and Frantzdy Pierrot contributed one goal each. With one round remaining, Maccabi Haifa has 78 points, leading Hapoel Beer Sheva, who remains at 71 points after a 3-0 away loss to third-placed Maccabi Tel Aviv, who now has 70 points. All Israeli sports media reported that Haifa’s head coach Barak Bachar, who led the team to three straight titles, will depart the club to coach Serbian champions Red Star Belgrade next season. -Xinhua Maccabi Haifa wins Israeli football championship for third time in a row After first leg stalemate at the Bernabue, Man City hosts Real Madrid in a do-or-die Champions League semi-final TODAY’S CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SEMI-FINAL FIXTURE: Today: Manchester City vs Real Madrid 10pm Who will have the last laugh? Two goals and an assist from the in-form Ilkay Gundogan put Man City within touching distance of the Premier League title, which will be theirs if they can get the better of a lacklustre Chelsea next weekend, but Guardiola’s men cannot be pre-occupied with thoughts of topflight glory as they bid to upset the European apple cart. Heading into Wednesday’s second leg with a 22-game unbeaten run to protect, Man City have incredibly strung together a 15-match winning streak at the Etihad Stadium in all tournaments - scoring at least twice in 14 of those contests - and not since September 2018 have they been beaten in a Champions League match on their own patch. Streaks and statistics mean little to a team with 14 top-tier European titles to their name, though, and Real Madrid have an added incentive to put another blot on Man City’s continental notebook this week after the La Liga title was wrestled out of their grasp. Los Blancos did what was needed to be done to delay Barcelona’s crowning, as a much-changed team saw off Getafe 1-0 thanks to Marco Asensio’s 20-yard strike, but La Blaugrana’s derby win over Espanyol on Sunday evening confirmed Barca’s status as La Liga’s top dogs. While Ancelotti’s men may have the consolation prize of a Copa del Rey already wrapped up - they were given a guard of honour by Getafe before the weekend’s game - retaining their European honour will be at the forefront of their wily manager’s mind ahead of a largely inconsequential few weeks domestically. Keeping Getafe at bay saw Real snap a five-game streak without a clean sheet, and while they have lost each of their last two La Liga fixtures on the road against Girona and Real Sociedad, Liverpool and Chelsea have already been put to the sword on their own territory by Los Blancos in the 2022-23 Champions League. A repeat of last season’s 4-3 Etihad extravaganza would do for Man City lest they risk forming an unwanted trifecta with their Big Six rivals, while Real have never won on the Citizens’ turf in four previous attempts, and an Istanbul date with either Inter Milan or AC Milan will be the reward for the victors Wednesday’s tantalising clash of the titans.-Sportmole