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Kwabe Ben

KWABE BEN Is a Photo-journalist, business/features writer and Investigative journalist with a year's experience in Digital broadcast media. Change starts with you and I . Embrace it to attain a Just world. Express and address the truth for its relative. For a feature story/coverage; email: benjykwabe@gmail.com

Entertainment & Business

Guinness Hosts Epic Live Football Viewing Experience at Mtwapa’s Yacht Lounge

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

Guinness, the Official Beer of the Premier League, treated football fans at the Coast to an exciting two-day live football viewing experience over the weekend. The Guinness Matchday event at the Yacht Lounge in Mtwapa featured live screenings of English Premier League (EPL) matches and commentary from prominent Kenyan football personalities.

Fans were thrilled by the presence of renowned pundits, including Manchester United superfan Maina Kageni, Manchester City enthusiast Lotan Salapei, and Arsenal loyalist Carol Radull. The Guinness Matchday committee, comprising Chairman G Money, Chief Snacks Officer Nana Owiti, Chief Vibes Officer Willis Raburu, and media personality Silva Kido, further energized the event.

Saturday’s line-up featured several EPL matches, highlighted by the much-anticipated Arsenal vs. Everton clash, which ended in a 0-0 draw after a tense 90-minute battle. Sunday’s big event was the high-stakes Manchester Derby, where Manchester United secured a 2-1 victory over Manchester City. Despite the loss, City fan Alphonse Mwari had a reason to celebrate after winning an all-expenses-paid trip to the UK to watch a live EPL match. Mwari emerged victorious in the Guinness Cleansheet challenge, outshining 35 participants in the first draw and 11 finalists.

The Guinness Matchday is a fan-driven football experience that offers immersive live match screenings on large screens with crisp audio, comfortable seating, and premium Guinness serves. Attendees also have a chance to win a trip to watch a live EPL match in the UK by participating in the Guinness Cleansheet challenge, which tests their knowledge and passion for the Premier League.

guinnessSpeaking at the event, Guinness Shopper Manager Hannah Waruguru said, “The Guinness Matchday is a celebration of our consumer’s love for the beautiful game, which is why we work with the devoted football fans who make up our Guinness Matchday Committee to help us put together epic live football by the fans for the fans. It is also a great opportunity for us to reward football fans across the country for their knowledge and passion for the game with a trip to the UK to watch a live EPL match, which is every football fan’s dream, and we are honored to make it happen as the Official Beer of the Premier League.”

Entertainment at the event included live music performances from celebrated Kenyan artists Khaligraph Jones and Charisma. Fans also danced to the beats of a vibrant DJ line-up featuring Mombasa’s DJ JR, DJ Wal, and Issa Platinum, as well as DJ Protege, DJ Redbone, DJ Pskratch, and DJ Pierra Makena.

The Guinness Matchday event provided a memorable experience for football lovers on the Coast, blending the thrill of live match action with music, celebrity appearances, and the chance to win a dream trip to the UK.

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Entertainment & BusinessEnvironment

145 companies on the spot over Nairobi water pollution

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

The Nairobi River Regeneration Program Committee has unearthed the underlying problem that has left the city river a dumpsite, posing  both a health risk and an environmental hazard.

 

Nairobi River, a source of agriculture consumption and ecosystems, has been at a high risk of river pollution, recently being contaminated by domestic waste from the slums and industrial waste from the industries.

Environment CS Aden Duale said that the journey to reclaim the river will commence and has put a notice on companies and slaughterhouses that are choking the river with their affluent waste.

 

A survey conducted on the river showed that informal settlements, industrial buildings and other commercial enterprises along the river discharge their waste often.

 

“ We have noticed that the sewage main line passes inside the river which is dysfunctional and we have to remove a serious infrastructure investment to remove and redo the sewer line.” He added.

 

The 145 entities, including the slaughterhouses in Nairobi, have been instructed to comply with the restoration order issued by the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA). He further said that 10,000 youth started work on Monday to clean the Nairobi River and he and the president will join the youth soon to exercise the process as well.

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Health

AstraZeneca Employees Across Africa Give Back to Communities in week of Service

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

AstraZeneca is proud to announce the successful conclusion of its inaugural Week of Service, which took place from September 16 to 20, 2024, across the African cluster. Employees from AstraZeneca’s offices throughout Africa united to volunteer their time, skills, and resources to support communities and advance environmental sustainability. This initiative underscores AstraZeneca’s commitment to creating positive societal impact and driving sustainability as part of its corporate responsibility efforts.

Throughout the week, AstraZeneca employees from Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Senegal, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa organized and participated in various activities to strengthen community resilience, support children’s education, and promote environmental protection. The Week of Service involved a range of impactful initiatives, including donations to local orphanages, environmental clean-up efforts, educational support, and mentorship activities for children in underserved communities.

Highlights from AstraZeneca’s Week of Service:

  • Cameroon: Employees gathered and donated food supplies and essential goods to the ‘Foundation Famille Chrétienne’ orphanage.
  • Ivory Coast: The team purchased school kits for students and donated them to the NGO Les Zinzins du Bonheur, supporting educational access for young learners.
  • Senegal: AstraZeneca’s team contributed food supplies and other necessities to the Nursery of Medina run by the Franciscan Sisters.
  • Ghana: Employees collected and distributed food supplies and essential items to a local orphanage, helping meet basic needs and support child development.
  • Kenya: The team spent quality time with children at Morning Star Ministries Children’s Home, engaging in cooking, cleaning, mentoring, and sharing gifts. They also visited Victorious Joy Children’s Home to hold discussions with the children and offer additional support.
  • South Africa: AstraZeneca employees took part in door-to-door donation efforts in local communities, and environmental cleanup activities, and engaged with children at the Princess Alice Adoption Home.

Commenting on the Week of Service, Deepak Arora, African Cluster Country President at AstraZeneca, said, “At AstraZeneca, we believe that our success is intrinsically tied to the well-being of the communities where we live and work. The Week of Service allows our employees to give back, connect with communities, and work together toward a sustainable future. This year’s activities showcased the incredible dedication of our team across Africa, and we are immensely proud of the positive impact we made.”

Across the African cluster, AstraZeneca employees contributed a total of 1,600 service hours, with around 200 employees volunteering their time to various causes. This cumulative impact reflects AstraZeneca’s strong commitment to giving back to society. This dedication of time and effort, emphasizes the company’s belief in fostering healthier, more resilient communities through hands-on support and volunteerism.

Amit Bhakri, Country Director, Sub Sahara Africa at AstraZeneca, added, “Participating in the Week of Service was an incredibly rewarding experience. Whether we were supporting children in orphanages, promoting education, or helping preserve the environment, we came together with a shared purpose. Knowing that my efforts could truly impact my community makes me proud to work for a company that values and supports giving back. It’s inspiring to stand alongside colleagues who are equally passionate about creating positive change.”

The AstraZeneca Week of Service is part of the company’s broader sustainability agenda, which focuses on creating Healthier, More Resilient Communities. Through this annual initiative, AstraZeneca aims to address social challenges, contribute to local development, and foster environmental stewardship across its global footprint.

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IndustryLeadership

BM Security Marks 40 Years with Key Insights for Holiday Safety

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

As the festive season approaches, Kenyans are urged by BM Security to stay vigilant and prioritize safety during a period often marked by heightened security risks.

BM Security, celebrating its 40th anniversary, has released its Annual Security Report and Forecast for 2024-2025, providing a detailed analysis of Kenya’s security landscape, emerging trends, and how technology is transforming safety measures.

The report highlights a spike in incidents such as burglaries and road accidents during December, driven by increased travel, festive activities, and heightened consumer spending.

Michelle Morgan, CEO of BM Security, emphasized the importance of proactive safety measures during this season:

“The festive period is a time of celebration, but it also comes with unique security challenges. We advise individuals and businesses to conduct thorough safety checks, remain vigilant, and adopt preventive measures to ensure a safe and joyous season.”

Home Security Risks

Affluent neighborhoods such as Kilimani and Westlands are particularly vulnerable, with thieves targeting high-value items like electronics and cash. To mitigate risks, BM Security recommends:

  • Securing homes with reliable locks and surveillance systems.
  • Avoiding public announcements of travel plans on social media.
  • Engaging professional security services.

Road Safety Concerns

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) reports that 7,114 lives were lost to road accidents between January and August 2024, with major contributors including alcohol consumption, speeding, and driver fatigue. BM Security advocates for:

  • Defensive driving courses.
  • Detailed route planning.
  • Avoiding isolated roads during late hours.

Morgan assured clients of BM Security’s readiness to provide emergency response services during the busy holiday period.

BM Security

BM Security senior manager innovation Charlton Omondi showcases the workings of the BM Security app to BM Security Chief Executive Officer Michelle Morgan and BM Security board chairman Neil Morgan during the company’s 40-year celebration event and launch of the Annual Security Report held at Mawimbi Seafood restaurant Nairobi.

Technology’s Role in Enhancing Security

The report underscores the growing importance of technology in protecting lives and assets. BM Security has introduced innovative solutions to address modern security challenges:

  • BM Smart Panics: A mobile app offering real-time access to camera monitoring, alarm systems, and emergency alerts.
  • BM Purple Code: A secure platform for women to report gender-based violence and access immediate support.
  • BM Vigicontrol: A guard tour system with GPS tracking, SOS alerts, and real-time incident reporting.
  • BM Visitor Management: QR code-based access control to streamline guest verification.

A Broader Outlook for 2025

Beyond the festive season, Kenya faces ongoing security challenges. The report predicts that political unrest and public demonstrations tied to economic grievances may persist into 2025. Economic stagnation could also contribute to higher crime rates, with both opportunistic and organized criminal activity expected to rise.

As Kenyans prepare for the holidays, BM Security pledges to continue delivering 24/7 emergency response and updates to ensure public safety. Their anniversary celebration serves as a reminder of the evolving security landscape and the collective responsibility to protect lives and property during these times.

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Awards & RecognitionBanking

I&M Bank Unveils Milele Rewards Program in Partnership with Mastercard

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

I&M Bank has taken its customer rewards to a new level with the launch of the Milele Rewards Program, an innovative loyalty program developed in collaboration with Mastercard after getting customers feedback on how they can be valued more.

This new offering builds on the success of the bank’s previous loyalty program, which for three years rewarded cardholders with cashback for using their debit and credit cards at Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals and in e-commerce transactions.

The name Milele, Swahili for “everlasting,” reflects I&M Bank’s commitment to nurturing long-term relationships with its customers. With the new program, the bank offers a unique value proposition: a 100% conversion rate of loyalty points into Kenya Shillings (1 Milele Point = 1 KES). Therefore, cardholders are set to now earn up to 2% cashback on their spending, with rewards increasing for higher-tier cards and spending levels.

A New Chapter in Customer Loyalty

Recognizing an opportunity to do more, I&M Bank partnered with ICC, a global leader in customer engagement solutions, to design a program that caters to diverse customer needs.

Unlike its previous cashback-only approach, Milele Rewards offers greater flexibility as it enables customers to redeem points for flights with over 1,650 airlines, hotel stays at thousands of properties worldwide, or vouchers usable at local partner merchants.

“At I&M Bank, we strive to enrich the lives of Kenyans with solutions that resonate with their everyday needs,” said Gul Khan, the bank’s CEO, at the launch in Nairobi. Additionally emphasizes that this program is more than just a loyalty initiative; it is our way of rewarding our customers for their trust and loyalty while delivering a lifestyle experience that truly adds value.

Milele Rewards Program

I&M Bank Kenya CEO Gul Khan(R) and Shehryar Ali(L) Mastercard, Senior Vice President and County Manager for East Africa and Indian Ocean Islands pose for a photo after the formal launch of the Milele Rewards held at one park avenue I&M, Nairobi County.

A move that places I&M Bank ahead of the rest in its space with consideration of customer feedback and continued transformation of their experiences as they are empowered more and assured of the value for their money.

Shehryar Ali, Senior Vice President and Country Manager for East Africa at Mastercard highlighted the importance of loyalty programs in today’s market. “Consumers and small businesses need flexible solutions that offer value. Through Milele Rewards, I&M cardholders enjoy unmatched benefits, making every transaction more rewarding,” he said.

Mr. Ali also revealed that this move places Kenya on the global map as similar rewards programs are being adopted in the Gulf and UAE regions which makes it timely and very significant. Pointing out that the Milele Rewards is 8 times higher than any other redeeming platform in the country.

Transparency and Value for Every Transaction

Based on the research by the I&M Bank, Kenyan consumers increasingly value transparency in their interactions with financial institutions, Milele Rewards addresses this by automatically enrolling cardholders into the program and rewarding every transaction with redeemable points.

Further allowing the customer to select how they can redeem their points be it in booking flights, reserving hotel suites, or claiming cashback, customers receive tangible benefits with each card swipe.

For I&M Bank, which boasts a legacy of over 50 years in Kenya, the launch of Milele Rewards represents a milestone as it reinvents itself continuedly in the constantly evolving space.  This move further solidifies its position as a leader in customer-centric banking and reflects its dedication to creating meaningful relationships with its clients.

As Stephanie Kome from I&M Bank aptly put it, “With every transaction, our customers gain value and that’s the essence of Milele Rewards to reward loyalty and enhance experiences in ways that truly matter.”

By collaborating with Mastercard and listening to its customers, I&M Bank has introduced a loyalty program that will not only meet customer expectations but also set new standards for banking rewards in Kenya and beyond.

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Health

AstraZeneca, MTRH Partner To Advance Lung Cancer Diagnostics & Care

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

AstraZeneca, in partnership with the Moi Teaching & Referral Hospital (MTRH), has launched an advanced molecular testing platform to enhance lung cancer diagnostics in Kenya.

A collaboration under AstraZeneca’s Cancer Care Africa (CCA) initiative aims to strengthen diagnostic capabilities in the public sector and provide Kenyan patients with access to cutting-edge technology to facilitate accurate lung cancer diagnosis.

November marks Lung Cancer Awareness Month globally, attention is drawn to lung cancer as one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The month-long awareness campaign underscores the urgent need for improved diagnostic solutions in countries where delayed diagnosis due to misinterpretation of symptoms often leads to late-stage detection.

According to Deepak Arora, Country President for the African Cluster at AstraZeneca, the launch of such a milestone,  during Lung Cancer Awareness Month, is a testament to their commitment to bringing science to life, fostering hope for patients, and empowering them in their battle against cancer.

In Kenya, the absence of timely interventions frequently results in late-stage diagnosis, due to misdiagnosis of lung cancer for other lung conditions like Tuberculosis. This new molecular testing platform is set to revolutionize the current diagnostic landscape, addressing critical gaps that have previously hindered effective and timely diagnosis, ultimately improving treatment outcomes for lung cancer patients.

“At AstraZeneca, we are committed to working collaboratively with governments, healthcare professionals, and patient communities to create resilient healthcare systems and expand access to innovative cancer treatments for patients across Africa,” said Deepak Arora.

AstraZenecaWith the implementation of this initiative at MTRH, AstraZeneca, and MTRH seek to provide equitable access to lung cancer diagnostics, offering every patient the possibility of early intervention. The platform will enable definitive and accurate diagnosis, supporting a patient-centered approach to cancer care for the people of Kenya.

Dr. Phillip Kirwa, Chief Executive Officer of Moi Teaching & Referral Hospital, stressed the importance of the partnership as it brings about a greater advancement for cancer care in Kenya since this molecular testing platform is a great technology.

“At MTRH, we are dedicated to elevating healthcare standards and ensuring that every Kenyan has access to timely and precise diagnostic services. This collaboration with AstraZeneca aligns with our mission to deliver accessible and high-quality healthcare to all, particularly in combating life-threatening diseases like lung cancer,” said Dr. Kirwa.

The Cancer Care Africa initiative seeks to bridge healthcare disparities in cancer care across the continent by fostering equitable access to advanced diagnostic systems. The partnership with MTRH represents a shared vision of a sustainable future in healthcare, where early detection and timely treatment can significantly improve the clinical outcomes of lung cancer patients in Kenya.

As part of Lung Cancer Awareness Month, AstraZeneca and MTRH also hope to raise greater awareness around lung cancer symptoms, encouraging people to seek testing early for better outcomes.

Through this initiative AstraZeneca and MTRH are driving a positive transformation in Kenya’s healthcare landscape, working towards a future where lung cancer patients have the resources needed for effective treatment and hope for a better quality of life.

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Health

AstraZeneca’s Global Health Research Earns it Recognition in South Africa

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

AstraZeneca’s presence in South Africa has become a driving force in global health research, contributing significantly to respiratory, cardiovascular, and oncology therapeutic areas. The pharmaceutical giant has solidified its position as a key player, ranking second in the pharmaceutical sector for clinical trials after MSD, demonstrating its deep investment in both the country and the future of healthcare.

South Africa’s unique role in AstraZeneca’s clinical trial portfolio has seen the country rise to prominence, particularly in respiratory and cardiovascular research. The country has not only contributed large patient numbers to global studies but has also served as a rescue country for underperforming trials worldwide. AstraZeneca’s local research extends beyond immediate results, contributing to long-term patient care and healthcare system improvements through post-trial access programs that ease the burden on the state and reduce patient comorbidities.

Fatima Cassim, Head of Clinical Operations at AstraZeneca South Africa, highlighted that the company’s evolving strategy in South Africa is evident through tremendous growth in its clinical trials, especially in respiratory and cardiovascular research.

“Our partnerships with local investigators and academic institutions have allowed us to provide novel therapies to patients, while also contributing to the country’s scientific development. We are committed to driving transformation and building capacity by ensuring 25% of our trial sites are within the state sector and offering opportunities for new investigators,” she said.

The company’s commitment to capacity building is evident in its collaboration with doctors and investigators, many of whom are trained in AstraZeneca’s cutting-edge science. By equipping local healthcare professionals with the knowledge and tools to run sophisticated trials, AstraZeneca is fostering a new generation of clinical researchers in South Africa. This strategy, Fatima says, “enhances not only their professional confidence but also the quality of care provided to trial patients.”

In addition to AstraZeneca’s strong local partnerships, the pharmaceutical leader is navigating the complexities of South Africa’s regulatory landscape. With collaborations through industry bodies like the Innovative Pharmaceutical Association of South Africa (IPASA), the company works towards streamlining challenges facing the clinical trial sector.

South Africa’s contribution to global research is evident through the country’s involvement in cutting-edge clinical trials, particularly for novel therapies. While challenges remain in areas like oncology and rare diseases, the country continues to play a critical role in global research, providing novel care to patients and advancing the development of new treatments. Local relevance is a key focus, with trials tailored to benefit the South African population through collaborations with key opinion leaders and academic institutions.

Deepak Arora, African Cluster Country President at AstraZeneca, emphasized the importance of South Africa’s contribution to AstraZeneca’s global clinical research initiatives: “Our focus on diverse, high-impact trials in respiratory, cardiovascular, and oncology therapies not only advances global medical knowledge but also brings novel treatments to local patients. We are committed to continuing our investment in South Africa’s healthcare ecosystem, driving scientific innovation while improving access to life-saving therapies.”

Clinical trials in South Africa have evolved significantly, providing state and academic sites access to novel therapies. A key policy implemented is post-trial access, ensuring that patients in clinical trials continue receiving the newer drugs after the trial ends This helps ease the burden on the state by providing better care, reducing comorbidities, and assisting the healthcare system.

AstraZeneca is poised for continued growth in its clinical trials, with a strong pipeline of products in development. Of particular note is the company’s upcoming entry into dyslipidemia treatment, a unique offering in the competitive market.

This commitment to ethical standards, high-quality training, and transformative research has earned it a stellar reputation amongst local investigators. These investments and capacity-building efforts will be integral to both the local and global advancement of health research.

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Agribusiness

Critical Factors Affecting Credit Services Access by Small-Scale Tea Farmers  

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

Smallholder farmers in Kenya remain deprived of much-needed credit despite agriculture being an economic mainstay, findings by CBK, Agriculture Sector Survey, 2024

More than 25 percent of the sampled farmers reported having obtained loans from various sources in September, July, May, March, and January 2024, with a large share of loans allocated to buying inputs.

The main sources of finance for farmers have continued to be banks, SACCOs, and digital loans. The share of farmers who reported to have borrowed to finance agriculture was much lower in September 2024 relative to July 2024, to alleviate the input cost burden.

In tea farming, access to credit is a critical factor in empowering farmers, enabling them to increase productivity, adopt modern agricultural practices, and strengthen rural economies in developing countries.

Despite its importance, however, many smallholder farmers continue to face significant barriers when seeking financial support. Limited access to nearby financial institutions, high collateral demands, steep lending costs, and rigid policies often make formal credit inaccessible.

Further, complexities in application processes and limited financial literacy exacerbate these challenges, frequently trapping farmers in cycles of low productivity and economic vulnerability.

Addressing these barriers is essential to unlocking the full potential of tea farmers and fostering a resilient agricultural sector that benefits local communities and contributes to sustainable development.

Equity Bank’s Tea Bonus Loan is designed specifically for tea farmers, offering a targeted financial solution that meets their unique cash flow needs. By structuring loan disbursements to align with the tea harvest and bonus distribution cycles, this loan provides credit when farmers need it most, reducing repayment pressure during off-peak times.

The Tea Bonus Loan also lowers traditional collateral barriers and offers flexible terms that enable farmers to invest in crucial inputs like fertilizers, seeds, and farm maintenance. Such investments directly enhance productivity and improve crop quality, ultimately fostering a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.

The Tea Bonus Loan has additional features designed to support the financial growth and stability of farmers:

– Loan Amount: Borrowing ranges from KES 5,000 to a maximum of KES 2 million.

– Loan Tenure: Up to 12 months, with repayment pegged to the date when the anchor organization pays out the tea bonus, payable as a bullet payment.

– Charges: Interest rate of 20.1%, a loan processing fee (Lace) of 4%, credit life insurance of 1% per annum, and an excise duty of 20%.

– Repayment: Loan recovery is made from the transacting account on the maturity date.

– Re-borrowing Option: Farmers can borrow multiple times as long as they have not exceeded their credit limit.

 

Eligibility and Limit Calculation:

– Farmers who have received tea bonuses for at least the last two consecutive years.

– Upward Trend: Eligible farmers may borrow up to 80% of the average bonus amount if the bonus trend is upward.

– Downward Trend: Borrowing limit is set at 70% of the lowest bonus payment amount.

– No arrears on existing loan facilities, no non-performing accounts (as per bureau records), and only accounts with single account mandates are eligible for Phase One.

– Maximum eligible age is 70 years.

Through such targeted financial products, Equity Bank demonstrates its commitment to empowering farmers, advancing agricultural sustainability, and contributing to a broader vision of inclusive economic growth across the developing world.

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Entertainment & Business

Tusker Oktobafest Thrills Mashujaa Weekend Crowds in Nairobi, Eldoret

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

The 2024 Tusker Oktobafest began with vibrant events in Nairobi and Eldoret over the Mashujaa Weekend, combining beer, culture, and live performances. The celebrations took place at Enkare in Kitengela and Timba XO in Eldoret.

Revellers enjoyed a diverse beer and cultural festival showcasing a variety of beers from Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) and performances by top musicians. In Nairobi, Les Wanyika performed classics such as Sina Makosa, Nimaru, and Barua Yako, giving the audience a nostalgic rhumba experience. In Eldoret, Khaligraph Jones energized the crowd with his hit songs, while the Timba XO venue hosted lively performances from Vijana Barubaru and sets from MC Nick The Trend, DJ Pierra, DJ Tibz, and DJ Aleckie.

At both locations, attendees engaged with their favorite beer brands through activities like beer tastings, quizzes, and opportunities to win branded merchandise. The events allowed Tusker fans to celebrate in an intimate atmosphere while enjoying their favorite drinks.

Oktobafest

Oktobafest Brand ambassadors

Tusker’s Senior Brand Manager, Brigid Wambua, noted that expanding Oktobafest beyond Nairobi has allowed the brand to connect more closely with consumers and celebrate regional cultural differences. She expressed excitement about bringing similar experiences to other areas in the coming weeks.

Tusker Oktobafest 2024 continues to grow as a nationwide festival celebrating Kenyan beer, music, and culture. Future events will feature unique regional elements, promising more excitement across the country. Special promotions, including discounts and exclusive offers, will run throughout the month, rewarding beer lovers across Kenya.

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Awards & RecognitionBusiness

Guinness Offers Fans an Ultimate Premier League Experience in the UK

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

Guinness, the Official Beer of the English Premier League, offers two lucky winners of the “Guinness Clean Sheet Challenge” an unforgettable experience — a trip to the UK to watch Premier League matches live. The winners expressed gratitude for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the action directly from the stadium.

Phidel Oyombe and Felix Takona, both Arsenal fans, are set to watch the Manchester City vs Arsenal game at the Etihad Stadium on September 22nd. They shared their excitement, eagerly anticipating the difference between watching a game in a stadium compared to their usual TV screens.

The two were selected from the Guinness Matchday Clean Sheet Challenge, held in Eldoret and Kisumu. The competition tested football fans’ knowledge, with the grand prize being an all-expenses-paid trip to the UK, courtesy of Guinness.

Phidel Oyombe, an Arsenal fan since childhood, expressed his joy and appreciation for being rewarded for his football knowledge. “I’ve been an Arsenal fan since I was young. This opportunity feels surreal, and I’m grateful to Guinness. Many of my friends didn’t believe me, but they’ll be amazed when they see my photos from the stadium,” said Phidel. He added that he was particularly excited about visiting Emirates Stadium and touring London.

guinness

Guinness Shopper Manager, Hannah Waruguru (left) hands over a boarding pass to an elated Phidel Oyombe during the press announcement of his EPL trip at Eabl Ruaraka offices on Thursday, 19th September.

Guinness Matchdays provide epic live football viewing experiences, allowing fans to watch matches on big screens with perfect sound, expert punditry, and, of course, ice-cold Guinness. Each Matchday includes the opportunity to participate in the “Clean Sheet Challenge,” with winners earning a trip to watch a live Premier League match in the UK.

The winners departed for the UK on Thursday, September 19th, ahead of the big showdown on Sunday. In addition to attending the match, they’ll tour London, including a visit to Emirates Stadium, Arsenal’s home ground, and explore other cultural landmarks.

Felix Takona described his excitement as indescribable, calling the trip a dream come true. “Watching a live EPL match has always been my dream, and it’s my first time in London. I can’t wait to see my team play against the defending champions,” he said.

guinness

Off you go! KBL Shopper Marketing Manager, Beer, Lennox Chai (left) hands over Felix Karbolo’s boarding pass during the press announcement of his EPL trip at Eabl Ruaraka offices on Thursday, 19th September.

Henrietta Reed, Guinness Marketing Manager, explained that Guinness Matchdays are designed to celebrate fans for their passion and knowledge of the English Premier League. “The Guinness Clean Sheet Challenge is a way to reward fans for their dedication to the game. We want to put fans at the heart of every Matchday,” said Henrietta.

She also mentioned plans to expand Guinness Matchdays to reach more football enthusiasts across the country. Fans can participate in the Clean Sheet Challenge via any phone, whether it’s a smartphone or not.

Football fans can join the next Guinness Matchday for a chance to win their own EPL trip. More details are available on Guinness’ social media pages.

The occasion was hosted by Mr. Lotan and Ms Caroll Radull-renowned sports journalist with more than two decades in the scene,  who made the event quite vibrant with interesting banter about football games, as they rivaled each other on which team would win between the English Premier League giants Arsenal and Manchester City.

guinness

That’s how many goals we’re gonna beat them by – Gunners’ fans Carol Radull (right) and Felix Karbolo (centre) with Man City’s Lotan Salapei during the press announcement of the EPL trip winners held at Eabl Ruaraka offices on Thursday, 19th September.

 

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