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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

H_Art The Band Paints Meru Black & White

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

Eabl Scotch brand Black & White over the weekend treated Meru residents to a memorable experience of great scotch and live music headlined by celebrated boy band H_Art The Band.

The signature monochromatic affair, which was hosted at Checkmate Lounge in Meru on Saturday, 29th March, saw locals turn up to enjoy the playful side of scotch. The event offered a vibrant alternative to the typical whisky experience, proving that Scotch can be both sophisticated and fun.

Upon entry, guests were immersed into the brand with interactive games, including Jenga and miniature bowling, which set a playful tone, leading into a curated cocktail experience. Attendees savoured signature Black & White cocktails, enjoyed special offers on meal platters and branded merchandise with whisky purchases, and discovered new ways to appreciate the smooth, accessible taste of Black & White.

“Black & White is all about breaking down barriers and making Scotch whisky accessible to everyone,” said George Karume, EABL Shopper Manager Premium Spirits. “We want our consumers to feel empowered to create their perfect blend of tradition and their expression, adding vibrancy to their everyday moments. This event in Meru was a perfect example of that.”

VJ Kay-gee Karuga kicked off the evening with an electrifying mix of music, setting the stage for the highly anticipated performance by H_Art The Band.

The beloved trio captivated the audience with a dynamic setlist, seamlessly blending timeless classics like “Uliza Kiatu” and “El Shaddai” with tracks from their latest album and recent collaborations. The crowd’s enthusiastic singalongs and energetic dancing underscored the band’s enduring popularity and the infectious energy of the night.

VJ Kay-gee Karuga returned to the decks after H_Art The Band’s performance, ensuring the party continued late into the night.

The Black & White Affair in Meru is part of a larger series of events designed to showcase the brand’s commitment to vibrancy, innovation, and a fresh perspective on whisky culture.

Black & White is a classic blend of some of the finest whiskies in Scotland, with a high proportion of quality grain whisky.

Since its inception in 1904, B&W Scotch Whiskey prides itself as a whiskey that is created for everyone to elevate everyday moments.

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AfricaHealth

XRP Healthcare Targets Q3 2025 IPO to Fuel AI and Africa Expansion

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

XRP Healthcare, a rapidly growing innovator in AI-driven healthcare and mergers & acquisitions, has announced plans to go public by Q3 2025. The company has accelerated its initial public offering (IPO) timeline, moving its listing date from 2027 to the third quarter of this year on a Canadian stock exchange.

This strategic move aims to fast-track expansion, unlock new investment opportunities, and solidify XRP Healthcare’s position as a global leader in healthcare transformation. The decision follows a series of high-impact developments, including the acquisition of Pharma Ville, a pharmacy chain with five wholesale and two retail locations across Uganda.

Abraham Cinta, CEO of ARC Group, highlighted the significance of this milestone, stating in an exclusive interview featured in XRP Healthcare’s Special Edition Magazine that being in the spotlight could exponentially transform the company’s business, potentially by a factor of 10 or even 100.

The Pharma Ville acquisition grants XRP Healthcare direct access to vital pharmaceutical and medical infrastructure, strengthening its foothold in Africa’s projected USD 259 billion healthcare market. The IPO process is being guided by ARC Group, a globally recognized capital markets advisory firm.

According to Charles Chong, Vice President of EMEA Capital Markets at ARC Group, the listing in Canada is only the beginning since the long-term strategy includes securing a U.S. listing within five years to enhance investor exposure and global market visibility.

Supporting its vision for accessible healthcare, XRP Healthcare has launched the XRPH AI App, a global multilingual digital health assistant available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. The app provides AI-generated medical guidance, localized in multiple languages, making it a vital tool in regions with limited healthcare infrastructure.

Recent updates include an image upload feature for AI-assisted analysis of visible symptoms such as rashes, swelling, and fungal infections. A “Doctor Search & Connect” feature, set to launch next quarter, will allow users to connect with licensed medical professionals in their area.

By bridging healthcare access gaps, the XRPH AI App positions XRP Healthcare at the forefront of consumer-driven digital health innovation.

Whitney Lynn, Chairman of XRP Healthcare, who brings over 45 years of M&A experience with over $10 billion in value creation, emphasized the company is at a pivotal moment
toward becoming a publicly listed company before September. This is evidenced by the accelerated M&A strategy starting with the acquisition of the Pharma Ville pharmacy chain in Uganda.

Africa-Focused Growth Strategy

 

With trademark protection secured in the United Kingdom, European Union, UAE, and Uganda, XRP Healthcare is building a recognizable and defensible brand in digital healthcare. Laban Roomes, COO, described Pharma Ville as a strategic cornerstone in the company’s IPO acceleration, emphasizing that the five wholesale and two retail pharmacies in Uganda mark just the beginning.

XRP Healthcare’s rapid expansion model is well suited for Africa, where 57% of Uganda’s 46 million people rely on private healthcare providers, with over 6,000 fragmented operators in the market.

“We’ve laid the foundation for scale and are on track to list before autumn, unlocking capital to drive regional expansion and transform healthcare delivery across Africa,” said Laban Roomes.

Kain Roomes, CEO of XRP Healthcare, further emphasized the significance of consolidating and modernizing Africa’s private healthcare sector, which accounts for 50% of total service delivery.

“The IPO allows us to accelerate our mission and strengthen healthcare access and quality across the continent.”

Looking ahead, XRP Healthcare plans to expand into Kenya and Rwanda, leveraging the legal, operational, and regulatory frameworks already established in Uganda.

XRP Healthcare Moves IPO to Q3 2025, Fast-Tracking AI and M&A Global Expansion

Key Partnerships and AI-Driven Healthcare Innovation

Following the Pharma Ville acquisition, XRP Healthcare has forged partnerships with leading pharmaceutical and healthcare providers to enhance distribution and operations across Africa. These partnerships include:

  • Incepta Pharmaceuticals – Generics and vaccines
  • Ascensia Diabetes Care – Diabetes management solutions
  • Universal Corporation – Global supplier of leaf tobacco for medical applications
  • Naari – Women’s health pharmaceuticals
  • Amanta Healthcare – Sterile injectables and IV infusions
  • Marie Stopes Uganda – Reproductive health and family planning
  • Medrull – Wound care and first-aid solutions
  • Toros Group – High-quality pharmaceutical distribution

Additionally, XRP Healthcare has secured an exclusive distribution agreement across Africa with Isansys Lifecare, led by CTO Keith Errey, for the deployment of the Patient Status Engine (PSE). This fully wireless, AI-powered medical platform integrates advanced sensors, deep learning, and predictive analytics to enable earlier interventions, home-based care, and paperless hospital wards. The PSE is expected to revolutionize healthcare delivery by reducing pressure on hospitals and medical staff.

 

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Africa

Emmanuel Sinzohagera Elected Bishop of the United Methodist Church in Burundi-Rwanda Episcopal Area

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

The United Methodist Church is pleased to announce the election of the Reverend Emmanuel Sinzohagera as its new Bishop. The election took place on March 15, 2025, during a special session of the Africa Central Conference. Reverend Sinzohagera was elected on the first ballot, receiving 48 out of 60 votes. Following his consecration on March 16, he was assigned to the newly created Burundi-Rwanda Episcopal Area.

The United Methodist Church has a long and storied history in Burundi. Since its inception, the church has played a pivotal role in the socio-economic development of the nation, establishing schools, hospitals, and community development programs that have positively impacted it.

countless lives. The church has been a beacon of hope, providing vital services and fostering a spirit of resilience and community in Burundi.

Bishop-Elect Sinzohagera, 50, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He is the first bishop elected by the central conference, which is scheduled to split into the new East Africa and Southern Africa central conferences.

Bishop-Elect Sinzohagera’s extensive experience within the United Methodist Church has prepared him well for this new role. For over fifteen years, he served as a dedicated pastor, guiding congregations in Kabezi, Gatumba, and Romero. His leadership extended to the district level, where he served as Superintendent for

Bujumbura for five years. In 2021, he was elected as the legal representative for the Burundi Conference and subsequently appointed dean of superintendents, a position he held again in 2023. He also demonstrated his commitment to spiritual renewal by initiating an annual revival within the Burundi Conference. Recognizing the importance of community development, he founded the Burundi United Methodist Development Agency. Notably, his service also extended beyond the church, as he served as speaker of the Senate of the Republic of Burundi, the third-highest office in his home country.

Bishop-Elect Sinzohagera is also a graduate of Africa University and holds multiple degrees in finance and business administration, a bachelor of theology, and master’s and doctorate degrees. His deep commitment to spiritual growth, social justice, and the mission of the church has been evident throughout his ministry.

Bishop-Elect Sinzohagera expressed his gratitude and commitment to his election. “I am deeply honored and humbled by the trust placed in me by the delegates of the Central Conference. My vision is to bring the body of Christ closer to God by fostering love, peace, and reconciliation. We will strengthen our witness, expand our outreach, and deepen our impact on the lives of the people we serve. Together, we will continue to build a vibrant and transformative church.”

The consecration service for Bishop-Elect Sinzohagera took place on March 16, 2025.

As Bishop, Emmanuel Sinzohagera will provide spiritual leadership, pastoral guidance, and administrative oversight to the United Methodist Church in the newly created Burundi-Rwanda Episcopal Area, representing the church at national and international levels and playing a crucial role in its governance and direction. He will serve for life unless he chooses to retire, is reassigned, or for other reasons.

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Health

Eight African Countries Unite for End Malaria Council Convention in Kenya

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

The high prevalence of malaria in Africa led to the formation of the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA), which established the End Malaria Council (EMC) in eight countries. This initiative, launched in February 2021, is a strategic priority for ALMA to intensify efforts in combating malaria at national, regional, and global levels.

The leaders have convened for the 2025 End Malaria Councils and Funds Chairs Meeting to advocate for the full replenishment of the Global Fund—a critical element in the fight against malaria. This aligns with the African Union’s target of achieving a 100% reduction in malaria incidence and mortality by 2030, making 2025 a crucial year for sustaining resources and accelerating progress.

Since launching their councils, the countries of Zambia, Zanzibar, Tanzania, Eswatini, Mozambique, Kenya, Uganda, and Nigeria have collectively mobilized up to $125 million in cash and kind to support ongoing malaria efforts. During the End Malaria Council’s meeting at the Kigali Summit on Malaria & NTDs, members committed to mobilizing $100 million to accelerate Africa’s progress against malaria through advocacy and action.

Since its inception in 2019, the End Malaria Councils & Funds have engaged over 2,500 companies, reaching more than 100 million people with malaria messaging. Both the private sector and civil society have recognized the significant role of ALMA, with mobilized commitments exceeding $125 million—surpassing the set target in Rwanda.

Zouera Youssoufou, Managing Director and CEO of the Aliko Dangote Foundation emphasized the importance of diverse stakeholders working together. “The key is to have governments collaborate with the private sector to increase budgetary allocations for malaria prevention and to seek more private sector support,” she stated.

End Malaria Council

Zouera Youssoufou, Managing Director and CEO of the Aliko Dangote Foundation

An analysis revealed that resource limitations for advocacy and action are significant challenges in addressing national malaria strategies. These challenges have been worsened by the recent suspension of U.S. foreign aid funding for 90 days, affecting critical health services, including malaria programs.

Ms. Thandile Nxumalo, CEO of Sanlam Investment Management, Eswatini, and Chair of the country’s End Malaria Fund, highlighted the need for capacity building, sharing best practices, and advocacy among countries. “Malaria impacts all of us, causing pain for families and economic loss due to absenteeism and reduced productivity,” she said.

In addition, Mr. Mthethwa, CEO, of EMF Eswatini shared how the End Malaria Fund Eswatini is driving high-impact malaria funding through strategic partnerships & donor engagements. These engagements he says have opened up an opportunity to get $2.4M from Taiwan & a commitment from India, proving that collaboration is key to ending malaria.

End Malaria Council

Mr. Mthethwa, CEO, of EMF Eswatini shared how the End Malaria Fund Eswatini

This situation underscored the need for countries to share best practices and learn from each other. The convening aims to review progress, exchange strategies, and strengthen efforts in the fight against malaria.

Hon. Nassor Mazrui, Minister of Health, Zanzibar called on shared responsibility, emphasizing everyone’s contribution as vital.  He urged for unity in defeating malaria since it affects individuals of all ages, wealth, and gender, necessitating collective action supported by adequate resources.

“Despite the high malaria burden, African governments’ domestic investment remains insufficient, with 70% of funding for malaria on the continent coming from external sources.  The resources we mobilize will not be the result of a single individual’s efforts, but a collective achievement. We need to increase domestic funding as well,” Hon. Mazrui stated.

End Malaria Council

Hon. Nassor Mazrui, Minister of Health, Zanzibar

Kenya Malaria’s Case Study

In Kenya, malaria persistence is exacerbated by growing insecticide resistance, particularly in high-prevalence areas around Lake Victoria in western Kenya.

While Kenya has made significant progress in reducing malaria prevalence from 8% in 2015 to 6% in 2023, the disease remains a major public health challenge. In 2022 alone, the country reported an estimated 5 million malaria cases and more than 12,000 deaths.

Chris Getonga, Chairman of the End Malaria Council Kenya, emphasized the urgent need for continued progress otherwise

“Every minute, a child loses their life to malaria. This devastating statistic is a stark wake-up call. We urgently appeal to the private sector to join hands and eradicate this preventable disease,” he stated.

End Malaria Council

End Malaria Council Kenya Chair, Mr. Chris Getonga.

This, combined with a significant funding shortfall estimated at 50% of the resources needed to fully implement the Kenya Malaria Strategic Plan—has hindered national malaria control efforts.

Formed in 2021, Kenya’s EMC has garnered substantial resources, including a $400,000 commitment from SC Johnson in 2022.

These funds enabled the Kenyan EMC to continue supporting key malaria interventions under the National Malaria Control Program, such as bio larviciding efforts using drones in Busia County.

End Malaria Council

Eng. Leodegar Tenga, End Malaria Council Chair, Tanzania

Additionally, $1 million was allocated to support Social Behavior Change Campaigns, establish health clinics at border areas for malaria prevention, and deploy new malaria prevention tools.

Notably, Eng. Leodegar Tenga, EMC Chair, Tanzania, revealed that Tanzania is also making strides in malaria control through targeted bio larvicide use & high-level advocacy, which has earned the country $2M to fight malaria which is a great win for public health.

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HealthTechnology

Axmed Launches Health-Tech Platform to Improve Medicine Access

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

Axmed, a health-tech social impact company, has introduced the Axmed Medicines Platform, a digital solution designed to improve access to essential medicines. The platform was unveiled at the Axmed Access Summit in Nairobi, which convened global leaders, policymakers, and healthcare innovators to discuss strategies for addressing systemic barriers in healthcare.

The Axmed Medicines Platform leverages technology to enhance supply chains, improve procurement efficiency, and ensure that high-quality medicines reach underserved populations, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). By streamlining the healthcare distribution system, the platform aims to reduce inefficiencies and improve the affordability and availability of medicines.

Speaking at the summit, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr. Deborah Barasa, emphasized the importance of technology-driven supply chains in strengthening healthcare systems. She highlighted the role of real-time data monitoring and digital coordination in enhancing distribution, minimizing waste, and ensuring accountability.

Axmed Addressing Medicine Access Inequities

The Axmed Medicines Platform is designed to tackle persistent challenges in medicine procurement, which disproportionately affect LMICs. According to the World Health Organization, over 80% of global population growth in the next decade will occur in these regions, which already bear the highest disease burden.

Axmed CEO Emmanuel Akpakwu accented the potential for transformation in these markets, stating that the platform consolidates fragmented procurement systems, improves efficiency, and enables suppliers to scale sustainably.

The Axmed Access Summit serves as a platform for collaboration among key stakeholders, including pharmaceutical manufacturers, governments, logistics companies, and healthcare providers. Over 60 leading organizations are engaging with Axmed to develop sustainable solutions for medicine access.

A move that CS Deborah points to as an initiative complementing the government’s focus on supporting local
manufacturing to reduce dependency on foreign suppliers and bolster national health security.

“The Social Health Initiative’s reforms anchored on pooled procurement, digital innovations, and local production will shield Kenyans from catastrophic health expenditures, ensuring that no citizen is forced to choose between essential treatment and necessities,” said CS.

Strategic Partnerships for Healthcare Advancement

Axmed

Axmed CEO Emmanuel Akpakwu and Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr. Deborah Barasa

Axmed’s mission extends beyond cost reduction; it seeks to strengthen global healthcare systems through strategic partnerships. The initiative is backed by the Gates Foundation and venture firm Founderful, with a particular focus on Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH) in Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Nigeria.

Dr. Barasa emphasized the critical need to address maternal and newborn health challenges, noting that partnerships like Axmed’s enhance healthcare delivery and efficiency. She further called on the diverse stakeholders in the sector to work together in building a resilient, people-centered health system that empowers every Kenyan to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

The Axmed Medicines Platform operates as a business-to-business (B2B) marketplace, connecting qualified buyers—such as hospitals, governments, and healthcare providers—with pharmaceutical suppliers. By aggregating demand, the platform improves purchasing power, reduces costs, and increases transparency in medicine procurement.

Akpakwu stressed the importance of collaboration in achieving systemic change:
“No technology can solve these challenges alone. True transformation requires partnerships and shared accountability. The summit fosters collaboration and defines a clear path for collective impact.”

Through innovation and strategic alliances, Axmed aims to reshape healthcare procurement, ensuring that medicines are more accessible, affordable, and efficiently distributed across LMICs.

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Health

AstraZeneca Champions Early Detection, Patient Care on World Cancer Day 2025

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

In recognition of World Cancer Day 2025, AstraZeneca reaffirms its commitment to advancing early detection, innovative treatments, and holistic patient care under this year’s theme, “United by Unique.”

The theme highlights the importance of patient-centered care, innovative approaches to improving outcomes, and the power of collaboration in advancing cancer care.

As a global biopharmaceutical company dedicated to oncology, AstraZeneca continues to champion efforts in this field by focusing on early detection, patient advocacy, and equitable access to advanced treatments.

Through initiatives that address critical gaps in cancer care, the company collaborates with healthcare providers, patient advocacy groups, and government institutions to drive meaningful improvements in cancer outcomes across the continent.

Cancer remains a leading global cause of death, with delayed diagnoses and limited access to care worsening outcomes. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that cancer mortality in sub-Saharan Africa could nearly double by 2030.

Recognizing the importance of early detection, AstraZeneca has launched initiatives to improve timely and accurate diagnoses.

One such program, Connect to Care, developed with Axios International and key medical associations, fosters multidisciplinary collaboration to accelerate lung cancer diagnosis and improve patient outcomes.

Deepak Arora, African Cluster Country President at AstraZeneca, emphasized the importance of these initiatives: “Our mission at AstraZeneca is to bridge the gap in cancer care.  Early detection plays a critical role in improving survival outcomes, and we remain committed to supporting initiatives that make a meaningful difference for patients.”

AstraZeneca is enhancing molecular testing infrastructure in Nigeria and Kenya, collaborating with Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) and Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health to introduce advanced diagnostics like EGFR testing for lung cancer.

Additionally, its diagnostic patient navigation program streamlines the journey from suspicion to diagnosis, ensuring efficient specimen handling for critical testing.

In South Africa, AstraZeneca has partnered with Medsol AI Solutions to launch Project Flamingo, an AI-driven healthcare innovation that enables real-time breast ultrasound scans and predictive analysis to improve early breast cancer detection in underserved communities.

The AI-powered app has demonstrated 97.6% accuracy in predicting malignancies, supporting early detection efforts and alleviating pressure on public health systems.

Dr. Khomotso Mashilane, Medical Director at AstraZeneca, stated, “We are committed to advancing innovation in oncology care through early detection and precision diagnostics. Using cutting-edge technologies, developing patient-centered solutions, and fostering meaningful partnerships, we aim to empower patients and healthcare providers to improve outcomes and enhance quality of life. On this World Cancer Day, we honor every patient’s unique journey and reaffirm our dedication to advancing science and delivering meaningful care.”

AstraZeneca’s Cancer Care Africa program underscores its commitment to holistic and equitable healthcare. Launched in Kenya with key partners, including the Ministry of Health, KESHO, Axios, and NCI, this initiative strengthens capacity, enhances diagnostics, empowers patients, and improves access to advanced cancer treatments.

As part of our commitment to strengthening cancer care infrastructure, AstraZeneca has supported the availability of diagnostic tools, including ultrasound biopsy machines for prostate cancer and biomarker testing technology for lung cancer.

The company also supports training for healthcare professionals, fostering a more skilled oncology workforce equipped to address Africa’s growing cancer burden.

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Entertainment & Business

Guinness Matchday Returns in Nairobi With an Ultimate EPL Experience

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

Calling all football fans in Nairobi! Guinness, the official beer of the Premier League, is thrilled to announce the return of Guinness Matchday to the heart of Kenya. After a nationwide tour, the ultimate football viewing experience is back in Nairobi, bigger and better than ever, ready to deliver an unforgettable weekend of Premier League action.

Guinness Matchday is set to take over Bar Next Door on Kiambu Road on February 1st and 2nd. Get ready for an epic weekend featuring massive screens, crystal-clear audio, expert football punditry, an electric atmosphere, and of course, ice-cold Guinness.

The Guinness Matchday offers fans more than just a place to watch the game. It’s an immersive experience that celebrates Kenya’s vibrant football culture.

Attendees can expect top-tier analysis from the renowned Guinness Matchday Committee, comprising Carol Radull (Director of Drinks Analysis), Lotan Salapei (Chief Entertainment Officer), Nana Owiti (Chief Snacks Officer), and Willis Raburu (Chief Vibes Officer).

Enjoy all the weekend games, delicious food and drinks, and the chance to connect with fellow fans who share a passion for the beautiful game. And that’s not all – the Guinness Cleansheet Challenge returns and Matchday minutes as well, allowing fans to win an incredible trip to the UK to witness a live Premier League match.

Guinness Matchday

Guinness matchday truck

“We are incredibly excited to bring Guinness Matchday back to Nairobi,” said Henrietta Reed, Marketing Manager at Guinness. “Nairobi is home to some of the most passionate Premier League fans in Kenya, and we can’t wait to share this epic experience with them. We’ve pulled out all the stops to ensure this Matchday is truly unforgettable, with the best viewing setup, our expert punditry team, and the unique Guinness vibe that makes it the ultimate place to watch Premier League football.”

Join the Action:

Football fans in Nairobi are invited to join Guinness at Bar Next Door on Kiambu Road on February 1st and 2nd for the ultimate Premier League viewing experience. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to celebrate your love of football with fellow fans, enjoy perfectly chilled Guinness, and maybe even win a trip to the UK!

Event Details:

  • Dates: February 1st & 2nd, 2025
  • Time: From 2:30PM
  • Venue: Bar Next Door, Kiambu Road, Nairobi
  • Entry: Registerhere

#GuinnessMatchdayNairobi

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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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