Entertainment & Business

Showmax unveils robust content slate ahead of its February relaunch 

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich
Showmax is relaunching in February 2024 with a brand-new look, new app, and entirely new product suite. This comes after the announcement of the partnership between MultiChoice and international media heavyweight Comcast’s NBCUniversal and Sky last year.
In February, the streamer will be releasing a record 21 Showmax Originals from four African countries, a revamped international content slate, and the continent’s first standalone Premier League mobile streaming plan. More than 1 300 hours of new Showmax Originals will be released in 2024 across Africa so viewers will be able to watch an average of more than 3.5 hours of fresh local content on Showmax every day of the year.
The diverse lineup includes a new season of hit Kenyan drama series Single Kiasi, back with both old and new faces; and adaptations of two South African bestsellers: Angela Makholwa’s serial killer thriller Red Ink, and Catch Me A Killer, the memoir of Micki Pistorius, South Africa’s first serial killer profiler.
Reality TV fans are spoilt for choice, with South Africa’s Widows Unveiled; Chocolate Kings, about male exotic dancers; and new seasons of hits like The Mommy Club and The Real Housewives of Durban; as well as Nigeria’s Sadau Sisters, led by Nigerian actress Rahama Sadau; and Ghana-set dating reality What Will People Say?.
There’s also South Africa’s high school drama Youngins, from iEmmy nominees Tshedza Pictures and university drama Wyfie; crime drama Koek; and comedy Ekhaya Backpackers; an epic drama set in Igboland, Cheta’m; Nigerian documentary series Free Men; and new seasons of hits like Flawsome (Nigeria) and ENO (Ghana). On Valentine’s Day, Showmax will also be releasing four films: Forever Yena, Intlawulo and Matilda en Matthys from South Africa and The Counsellor from Nigeria.
For fans of international content, the MultiChoice and Comcast partnership guarantees Showmax an ongoing supply of hit content, as the media giant owns the likes of Universal Pictures, NBC, Peacock, Sky, DreamWorks Animation and Telemundo.
Already home to the three most nominated shows at next week’s Emmys® and the TV drama winner at last night’s Golden Globes, Showmax will continue to draw titles from Banijay, BBC, eOne, Fremantle, HBO, ITV, Lionsgate, Paramount, Sony and Warner Bros. Discovery, among others, so viewers can expect international titles on Showmax to radically increase this year.
At launch, international highlights will include Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning and Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse, two of the 10 biggest box office hits of 2023; the second season of Halo, express from the US; Lawman: Bass Reeves, from Yellowstone co-creator Taylor Sheridan and starring David Oyelowo in a Critics Choice- and Golden Globe-nominated performance; missing persons procedural Found, which was NBC’s biggest launch on Peacock yet; Neill Blomkamp’s #1 US box office hit Gran Turismo; and box sets of classic NBC comedies like The Office and Parks and Recreation. It’s also been confirmed that box sets of HBO’s House of the Dragon and the second season of the phenomenal HBO hit The Last of Us will be heading to Showmax in the future.
New international content like Mission Impossible: Dead Reckoning, Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse and Halo will be available in HD with Dolby 5.1 surround sound: one of the benefits of Showmax’s migration onto the global Peacock streaming platform. The robust platform is used across the globe and is a leader in sports streaming, having successfully live streamed the Super Bowl to more than six million users simultaneously, so positions Showmax as ready to scale, and scale fast.
“2024 is a big year for Showmax,” says CEO Marc Jury. “We will be kicking it off with a content slate packed with world-class entertainment from the world’s biggest brands plus more African Originals than ever before and the first ever mobile Premier League plan for Africa.”
Over and above the heavy-hitting entertainment lineup, the new Showmax is launching the continent’s first standalone Premier League plan. Showmax Premier League will live stream all 380 matches, all the goals and all the unmissable drama of the world’s most popular football league – and all on mobile.
Showmax Premier League will give individual mobile users in 40+ markets in Africa exclusive live access to every Premier League match, as well as in-depth analyses, highlights and an extensive library of Premier League content on their mobile devices. Powered by SuperSport, Showmax Premier League can be bundled with the Showmax Entertainment plans.
The new Showmax will have three plans: Showmax Entertainment, Showmax Entertainment Mobile and Showmax Premier League Mobile. Details on pricing and launch dates will be revealed soon.
0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
This strategic move is set to bring about exciting changes in the telecom industry, with a focus on enhancing customer experience and technological innovation.
TechnologyWorld

Lumine Group to Acquire Nokia’s Device and Service Management Businesses

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich

Nokia has announced a significant agreement that will see Lumine Group Inc. acquiring its Device Management (DM) and Service Management Platform (SMP) businesses.

This strategic move is set to bring about exciting changes in the telecom industry, with a focus on enhancing customer experience and technological innovation.

The agreement signifies a pivotal shift in Nokia’s investment strategy, reflecting a concerted effort to align with technology leadership areas such as 5G Core, secure autonomous operations, private wireless and edge, network as code, and SaaS. By divesting certain products and redirecting resources, Nokia aims to accelerate its growth and solidify its position in key strategic areas.

Lumine Group, known for its prowess in managing and building industry-specific software, particularly in the telecom and media space, brings a wealth of experience and financial resources to the table. With a strong balance sheet and market capitalization, Lumine Group is poised to operate the acquired businesses as a standalone entity under the name “Motive.”

Approximately 500 Nokia employees from the Device Management and Service Management Platform are expected to transition to Lumine Group as part of the deal. Both companies are committed to ensuring a seamless transition and uninterrupted business operations for customers.

The deal, valued at EUR 185 million, includes a contingent consideration of up to EUR 35 million based on the business’s performance in the first year post-close. The anticipated closing date is set for the first quarter of 2024, subject to specific terms, conditions, and consultations as required by law.

Nokia’s Device Management software capabilities enable communication service providers to remotely manage home broadband access devices and IoT sensors from various vendors. Additionally, the Service Management Platform enhances customer care services, covering over 150 deployments worldwide and managing more than 1 billion devices.

Raghav Sahgal, President of Cloud and Network Services at Nokia, expressed optimism about the agreement, emphasizing the strategic importance of focusing investments on core business areas.

David Sharpley, Group President at Lumine Group, conveyed enthusiasm about welcoming Nokia’s customers and employees, highlighting the revival of the Motive brand for the new standalone Lumine company.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
anger
EducationOpinion

Guiding Children To Understand and Manage Anger

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

Emotions play a crucial role in shaping a child’s development making it vital to teach children from an early age how to manage anger, both positive and negative emotions, as it affects their reaction to the same in years to come.

Anger is a powerful and complex emotion that requires careful guidance and understanding. Teaching children about the impact and effect of anger is a crucial aspect of nurturing their emotional intelligence. By helping them recognize, express, and manage their anger, we empower them to navigate social situations and build healthier relationships.

Before delving into helping children understand anger, it is essential to establish a foundation for understanding the nature of this emotion. Emphasis should be made on anger being a normal and natural human response to various stimuli. They need to learn that how they choose to express and manage anger can have far-reaching consequences for both them and others.

Parents and guardians should encourage open and honest communication about emotions for both boys and girls. During conversations, create a safe space where children feel comfortable expressing their feelings without judgment by fostering an environment of trust. Children are more likely to open up about their anger once they feel safe.

Each child is unique, they will vary in what triggers their anger such as frustration, disappointment, or feeling misunderstood. By recognizing these triggers, they can start to understand the root causes of their anger and help them develop strategies to cope with these emotions.

It is equally crucial for them to understand the consequences of unmanaged anger and the impact it has on them and others. Their personal mental and physical well-being can be negatively affected leading to stress, anxiety, and sometimes health issues. Guide them to establish coping mechanisms as temporary, or permanent solutions.

anger

Ezekiel Muriithi Crawford International School Head of Marketing and Communications

Parents need to encourage children to express their anger verbally, communicate their feelings, and emphasize the impact of their words on others. They can learn to express the emotion and link it to a trigger while being sensitive about their choice of words. Alternatively, introduce physical outlets for anger, such as exercises, drawing, or journaling. These activities can provide a constructive way for children to release pent-up energy and emotions.

Mindfulness and relaxation techniques have proved to be helpful in calming minds and bodies when experiencing heightened emotions. Breathing exercises and visualization can be effective tools for managing intense emotions from an early age.

Anger is sometimes a secondary emotion that masks underlying feelings such as hurt, fear, or frustration. As parents, we need to encourage children to dig deeper and explore the emotions beneath the anger. Once they learn to identify and address these primary emotions, they can gain a better understanding of their anger.

Always remember children learn best by observing the behavior of their parents, teachers, or guardians. Despite what you teach them, they are also likely to mimic your reaction when in anger. Society needs to consciously model healthy anger management to reinforce the lessons taught and provide real-world examples for children to emulate.

 

 

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
African Development Bank Group
BusinessIndustry

African Development Bank Approves USD 7 Million Trade Finance Facility for NBS Bank to Support Local Enterprises

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

The Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group on Monday, 4 December 2023 approved a USD 7 million Trade Finance Transaction Guarantee facility for NBS bank in Malawi to support small businesses.

 

The facility is expected to promote the integration of Malawi’s economy into regional and global trade networks which are critical for the country’s growth

This facility will provide a 100% guarantee to international confirming banks (CBs) for the non-payment risk taken on NBS’s trade finance transactions conducted on behalf of SMEs, local corporates, and women-led businesses in Malawi. It will enable NBS to support the importation of fertilizer, medical supplies, and other strategic commodities.

The facility is expected to support about USD 40 million in trade over the next three years and promote intra-Africa trade in line with the aspirations of the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

AfDB’s Malawi country manager Macmillan Anyanwu stressed the importance of unlocking trade financing to support and scale up trade flows for a land-linked low-income economy like Malawi. “The facility is expected to promote the integration of Malawi’s economy into regional and global trade networks which are critical for the country’s growth,” he said.

Dr. Kwanele Batshele Ngwenya, NBS’s CEO also said, “NBS Bank has always been passionate about Malawi’s economic development, and I am pleased with this milestone because the transaction underscores the commitment of NBS Bank and AfDB to the advancement of trade in Africa. Additionally, on our part, we are committed to an ongoing cordial relationship with AfDB for the benefit of our clients and Malawi at large.”

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
BusinessTech

Twiva Launches Twende Digital Project for Kenyan Content Creators

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich

Twiva in collaboration with The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) Friday announced a new project for Kenyan content creators dubbed Twende Digital Project funded by the Challenge Fund for Youth Employment (CFYE).

The project also seeks to support SMEs in adopting the use of technology through intensive capacity building and technical assistance on the use of digital skills and platforms, which will eventually help these businesses to scale up.

This Project majorly focuses on addressing the critical issue of youth unemployment in Kenya where the recent statistics by the Kenya National Bureau Statistics indicated that over 50 per cent of the 2.97 million jobless Kenyans are in the ages of 18 to 29 years of age.

The Twende Digital Project is guided by the CFYE’s goal of fostering youth employment initiatives in Africa. Hence, the Project will provide significant work opportunities to both rural and urban setups in the country such as Nairobi, Nakuru, Kisumu, Mombasa, Eldoret, Nyeri, Machakos, Kiambu, Garissa, and Kakamega.

The selected businesses will enjoy digitization services and tools for free for the next 12 months including influencer marketing service credits, content creation credits, access to business digital coaches, access to influencers or resellers to help resell the SMEs’ goods, linkage to logistics and fulfilment partners, digital marketing training, and the digital marketing advisory services.

Paul Ngugi, Deputy Country Lead of the Challenge Fund for Youth Employment said that the Challenge Fund for Youth Employment plans to create 230,000 jobs for young people in Africa by 2026.

“These jobs should be dignified and fulfilling work as per the African strategy of good jobs and good salaries. We have also learned that it is very crucial to support the private sector, especially in measuring the impact of youth employment initiatives. This is why digitizing the SMEs will not only help expand these businesses but also ensure the creation of jobs” said

The absence of sufficient employment opportunities has been a huge hurdle in Kenya especially where recent reports have shown that over 2.97 million Kenyans are jobless. Out of these numbers, 50% are between the ages of 18 years to 29 years.

Hence, with the limited employment opportunities in the formal sector, and the challenges that are there in starting a business, there is a need for rethinking alternatives to work opportunities for Kenyans, especially young people.

Leveraging innovation, technologies, and other emerging skills has been one way to help reduce the transition shocks of young people into the labor markets.

“Enterprises stand to have a great chance of unlocking the wealth of opportunities and building a global competitive advantage through adoption and prioritizing digitization. As the benefits of digitization become clearer for businesses where they stand to benefit from access to wider markets, more efficient processes, increased productivity, better stock management, and reduced costs; hence the adoption of digitization cannot be ignored. Besides providing solutions for the growth of these businesses, digitization has brought about new and more exciting work opportunities for the young people in Kenya” said Dr. Ehud Gachugu, Director of Youth and Jobs at the Kenya Private Sector Alliance.

As a social commerce platform that gives micro, small, and medium enterprises digital access to markets through content creators, Twiva will play a pivotal role in supplying experienced social media influencers and resellers as well as the social commerce platforms to market and resell goods and services on behalf of these SMEs. This will then see the creation of work opportunities for the influencers while at the same time boosting the productivity of the SMEs through the integration of digital technologies.

“The anticipated impact of the TwendeDigital project is not just a statistic; it’s a transformation. As we aim to elevate the average income of employed youth from less than Kes 10,000 to approximately Kes 25,000, the project becomes a catalyst for change, injecting vitality into the lives of young individuals. Job satisfaction rates among the youth are not merely a metric; they represent a shift in the narrative of what it means to find meaningful work,” said Peter Kironji, CEO & Co-founder, Twiva.

Addressing challenges and fostering inclusivity, the project allocates 60% of opportunities to women-led SMEs and focuses on building digital skills among SMEs. At the same time, through the indirect work opportunities that are digitally enabled, the Project will provide start-up opportunities for youth without formal experience or capital, especially in areas of logistics and shipping of products to clients.

The project envisions expanding its reach to serve more youth and women by enlisting additional social influencers, through the use of the Twiva platform, fostering economic growth, and contributing to a sustainable future beyond the CFYE project.

Also expressing his insights and expectations about such opportunities for digital content creators, Philip Karanja, the CEO of PhilItTV explained that it is important for businesses to look for an influencer that they can connect with and can help elevate their business to the next level.

He said that branding requires a 360 approach from image and logos to the customer experience. He challenged the businesses present at the forum to involve influencers who can ensure improved visibility to their potential clients while they concentrate on other core functions of the business.

In addressing the challenges of limited capital and formal job opportunities, TwendeDigital doesn’t just provide solutions; it pioneers a new approach. By leveraging digital technologies and harnessing the power of social media influencers, the project opens doors for youth-owned agribusinesses and scalable enterprises. It’s not just about creating jobs; it’s about fostering an ecosystem where businesses thrive and individuals flourish.

“Looking beyond the immediate impact, the sustainability of the Twende Digital Project is rooted in its holistic approach. By empowering youth and women economically, we envision a ripple effect that contributes to the growth of the economy and poverty reduction. This is a commitment to building a sustainable future,” continued Dr. Ehud.

In a world grappling with challenges, Twende Digital emerges as a beacon of hope, illuminating a path toward economic empowerment, inclusivity, and a future where every young individual has the opportunity to thrive. The partnership is also a testament to the transformative power of collaboration and innovation. Twende Digital is a roadmap towards a brighter, more equitable tomorrow.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Business

European Union, Kenya sign ambitious Economic Partnership Agreement

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

The European Union and Kenya today signed an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) to boost bilateral trade in goods, increase investment flows, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

 

The EPA provides a platform to support job creation on both sides, along with targeted cooperation to enhance Kenya’s economic development. It is the most ambitious trade deal ever signed by the EU with a developing country when it comes to sustainability provisions such as climate and environmental protection, labor rights, and gender equality.

The signature took place during an official ceremony in Nairobi with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Kenyan President Dr. William Samoei Ruto.

President Ruto said the deal is the first with a developing country in which the EU’s new approach to trade and sustainable development is reflected, adding that it will further spur the European Union investment in Kenya besides guaranteeing higher earnings for our products.

The EU is Kenya’s first export destination and second-largest trading partner, with a total of €3.3 billion in bilateral trade in 2022 – an increase of 27% compared to 2018. The EPA will create even more opportunities for Kenyan businesses and exporters, as it will fully open the EU market for Kenyan products upon entry into force. It will also incentivize EU investment in Kenya thanks to increased legal certainty and stability.

The new Economic Partnership Agreement will boost bilateral trade even further, support investments and create good jobs in Kenya

Kenya has played a pioneering role in driving sustainability efforts on the African continent and is a reliable ally in the fight against climate change. It co-leads the Coalition of Trade Ministers on Climate initiative launched earlier this year, together with the EU and other partners.

European Union

Spain Secretary of State for Trade Xiana Margarida Mendez Bertolo, EU Ambassador Henriette Geiger , Cabinet Secretaries, Governors, among others, were present.

The EU-Kenya EPA builds on this strong track record and is the first agreement with a developing country in which the EU’s new approach to trade and sustainable development is reflected. The balanced agreement takes into account Kenya’s development needs by providing a longer period to gradually open its market. It also includes a special safeguard for agriculture, food security, and the infant industry.

A dedicated chapter has been included on economic and development cooperation, aimed at enhancing the competitiveness of the Kenyan economy. Together with EU development assistance, this will help build capacity and assist Kenya in implementing the EPA smoothly, while supporting local farmers in meeting EU standards and in reaping the opportunities this agreement provides.

The agreement corresponds to the Commission’s commitment to step up engagement with partners and regions in Africa. The aim is to enhance sustainable trade links between both continents and within Africa itself, thereby meeting key objectives for both the EU-Africa relationship and the green transition.

President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said: “Kenya is a key partner for the European Union in Africa. The new Economic Partnership Agreement will boost bilateral trade even further, support investments, and create good jobs in Kenya. This agreement will also contribute to sustainable and fair economic growth, bringing new opportunities for companies, to the benefit of both our people. It includes the strongest social and climate commitments of any EU trade deal with an African country.”

Next steps

The EPA will be transmitted to the European Parliament for consent. The agreement will subsequently enter into force.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
KBL
BusinessLifestyle & Entertainment

KBL: Kenya Cane Hoists Consumer Experience at Muthiga

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

Residents of Muthiga got a rare musical treat this past weekend when Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) spirit brand Kenya Cane hosted an elevated consumer experience at Relax Lounge Muthiga.

The revelers were treated to live music performances by a host of entertainers including Rhumbacane Maestro Simply Yaba, Mugithi’s finest Wanjine alongside DJ Sash and MC Prince.

The night also saw surprise appearances and performances by musicians Brian Sigu and Kenchez (H_art the Band). The two are featured on Yaba’s new album “Zitakazopendwa”.

Kenya Cane is keen on offering a platform for authentic cultural Kenyan music anchored on celebrating our diverse cultural identities.

According to Kenya Cane Brand Manager Davis Changalwa, the experience was a culmination of our cultural extravaganzas across the country that have featured local music, art, and cuisine.

“As we continue to mark Kenya at 60, Kenya Cane being a legacy Kenyan brand rooted in Kenyan culture, we are keen to partner with local artists to shape the next 60 years of modern contemporary music rooted in Kenyan culture such as Yaba’s Rhumbacane. We are glad we got to give our consumers at Muthiga this unexpected treat to kick off their festive celebrations as we wait to resume our regional activations,” he said.

The brand continues to set itself apart by offering consumers a cultural blend of great Kenyan music featuring great local talent including brand ambassador Savara and contemporary cultural artistes – Yaba, Ayrosh, Coster Ojwang’, Zaituni Wambui, Akoth Jumadi, Sweet Star, Sammy Wagithomo, Peter Kihambati, Karanga Lazima and Kamwana among others.

KBL

Artiste Wanjine performing at the Kenya Cane elevated consumer experience held at Relax Lounge Muthiga on Saturday 16 th November.

The brand of KBL has this year hosted cultural extravaganzas in five regions across the country to create opportunities for Kenyans to celebrate our diverse cultures featuring local music and cuisine.

The cultural extravaganzas which kicked off at The National Museum last year, have been hosted in Nakuru, Thika, Kisumu, Mombasa, Kitui, Narok, and Eldoret showcasing Kenya’s rich cultural diversity.

As part of celebrating Kenyans working towards their greatness, the brand through the Greats Toast Twice campaign also recognizes and rewards consumers, toasting the small wins and achievements that bring them closer to their ambitions and inspiring them to continue moving forward.

Please drink responsibly. Alcohol is not for sale to persons under the age of 18 years.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
oraimo
BusinessLifestyle & EntertainmentTechnology

Oraimo launches Burna Boy tuned SpacePods “Moonlight edition”

by Kwabe Ben
written by Kwabe Ben

Smart Accessories Giant, oraimo recently teamed up with Afrobeat star & Grammy Award Winner; Burna Boy, to launch the most sophisticated earbuds in the history of true wireless audio, ‘’the Oraimo SpacePods’’ Moonlight edition.

This time, oraimo took the innovation ‘’out of this world’’. In what fans have described as an unparalleled auditory device with a cosmic symphony of space-bound rhythm. The upgrade of the oraimo FreePods series is embellished with cutting-edge audio components, a blend of futuristic designs, and advanced technology innovation. There are two editions, a limited collection (Moonlight edition) another, a standard version which is available to everyone.

 

Burna has teamed up with oraimo to craft an impressive, outer space-level product that embodies his sound, artistry, style, journey, and craftsmanship. The product is centered on Burna’s personality, and an expression of his conviction, as he sees himself out of the world. It comes with a Burna’s tuning mode and voice prompt which invites you to experience his world of artistry & excellence.

The “Moonlight edition” also takes inspiration from the young African explorer, capturing the essence of adventure and discovery. Musically, it portrays a young African Music lover as an astronaut; who is free to explore unlimited music genres with no end.

oraimo

With a sleek and stylish slide-to-open design, these ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) enabled earbuds offer a seamless audio experience like no other. It can eliminate up to 30dB of noise, so whether you’re immersed in your favorite playlist or taking important calls, the ANC feature ensures crystal-clear sound by blocking out unwanted background noise.

The Lunar-inspired aesthetics give them an ethereal glow, taking you on an audio journey that feels “out of this world” where anything is possible. The attention to detail is remarkable, as every element has been carefully curated to reflect both Oraimo’s commitment to excellence and Burna Boy’s creative vision.

The upgrade of the oraimo FreePods series is embellished with cutting-edge audio components, a blend of futuristic designs and advanced technology innovation

Burna Boy’s tuned masterpiece is furnished with the latest Bluetooth technology, powerful batteries, Custom EQ, and Custom controls. The SpacePods can provide up to 36-hr music-listening in ANC off mode and 26-hr in ANC on mode. For music lovers, this is yet another buddy because; with built-in fast charging technology, users can enjoy 100 minutes of music listening with only 5mins’ of charging. It also allows you to customize your exclusive personal style with 6 EQs easily synchronized via the oraimo sound App. The device has Custom UI Control that enables you to choose the earbud controls you are most comfortable with.

The new device revolutionizes the way we experience gaming and elevates our audio adventures. With a cutting-edge low-latency algorithm that significantly reduces the visual and auditory time difference; where every sound and movement sync seamlessly for enhanced precision and responsiveness. What more could a gamer wish for?

The earbuds are equipped with IPX5 waterproof technology, protecting against water splashes and sweat during intense workouts or outdoor activities.

oraimo

What sets these SpacePods apart from others is their antibacterial ear tips designed with hygiene in mind, these ear tips are crafted using innovative materials that effectively repel bacteria, ensuring a clean and safe listening experience.

The oraimo SpacePods “Moonlight edition” captures a sense of exclusivity that resonates with those who crave something extraordinary. It’s not just about owning a pair of wireless earbuds; it’s about being part of an experience that pushes boundaries and celebrates individuality/creativity.

The state-of-the-art device allows users to seamlessly slide open, connect, and immerse themselves in a world of high-quality audio. The latest release of the earbuds series gives users a touch of elegance and also reflects Oraimo’s dedication to innovation and cutting-edge technology.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to own a piece of innovation combined with artistry as there are only 20pcs available globally.  Be one of the few who can enjoy music and communication with unparalleled clarity while showcasing your unique style. Step into another dimension with oraimo SpacePods “Moonlight edition” – where technology meets creativity in perfect harmony.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Business

Kenyan Traders Urge Donations of Used Clothes Despite Misinformation

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich

Kenyan traders are urging people to continue donating their used clothes this Christmas, despite misinformation circulating about the environmental impact of second-hand clothing donations.

The Mitumba Consortium Association of Kenya recently released a report debunking claims that used clothes contribute to waste and environmental damage, instead showing that the trade is low waste, climate friendly, and provides important economic opportunities for women and young people in Africa.

The report, titled ‘The Quality of Second-Hand Clothes Imported to Kenya and the Associated Environmental Impacts’, highlights the positive impact of the second-hand clothing trade on the Kenyan economy and the reduction of textile waste.

Teresia Wairimu, chairperson of MCAK, emphasized the importance of continued donations, stating that the misinformation about the trade has been damaging and puts millions of jobs and livelihoods at risk.

The research for the report was conducted by Information Research Solutions in Nairobi and edited by Professor Patrick Diamond of Queen Mary University London.

The report aims to dispel the false narrative surrounding the second-hand clothing trade and encourage evidence-based policy decisions that consider the livelihoods of those involved in the industry.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Agribusiness

TradeMark Africa, National Horticulture Taskforce Partner for Sustainable Export Growth in Kenya

by Brian Yatich
written by Brian Yatich

TradeMark Africa (TMA) on Thursday inked a technical and financial support deal with the National Horticulture Taskforce (NHT).

Both entities pledged to fortify and maintain investments in Kenya’s fresh produce exports. This pact is part of the EU-funded Business Environment and Export Enhancing Programme (BEEEP), which, among other initiatives, aims to transition 50% of Kenya’s fresh produce exports from air to sea freight by 2030.

The signing took place at an event that convened stakeholders from the logistics sector to evaluate the state of agro logistics in Kenya and to review the development of Kenya’s Masterplan for shifting fresh produce exports from air to sea freight.

Kenya’s move from airfreight to seafreight is not only an environmental decision but also a crucial economic advantage to safeguard its fresh produce exports, especially as UK and European supermarkets seek to reduce their carbon footprint.

Airfreighting from Kenya to Europe generates significantly higher greenhouse gases compared to sea freight (1 kilogram of airfreighted green beans emits as much as 177 kilograms of sea-freighted green beans).

NHT’s targeted initiatives include enhancing the capacity of horticultural product producers to adopt sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy on farms, implementing various water conservation methods, and transitioning fresh produce exports from air freight to sea freight.

Henriette Geiger, Ambassador of the European Union to Kenya, stated, “We fully support the NHT as we transition the avocado, mango, and vegetable value chains towards more sustainable production processes from farm to fork. This also aligns with our Generation Green Campaign, where we aim for increased productivity that will stimulate economic development through job creation, but in a sustainable and inclusive manner.”

Ahmed Farah, Kenya Country Director at TMA, remarked, “As the world moves towards more sustainable production, there has been a need for Kenyan producers to integrate sustainable agricultural practices and environmental impact mitigation strategies to achieve net zero carbon emissions. This partnership will be instrumental in enabling producers to meet these requirements.”

Clement Tulezi, Chairperson of the National Horticulture Taskforce, expressed gratitude for the support received from the European Union through TradeMark Africa.

Tulezi emphasized the importance of identifying relevant interventions and meeting the programme’s objectives of increasing and diversifying trade in mangoes, avocados, and vegetable value chains, reducing trading times and costs by improving efficiency and environmental sustainability of transport infrastructure, and enhancing the business climate.

Earlier in the year, the European Union signed a €25 million (KSH 4.2 billion) agreement with TMA in support of the Business Environment and Export Enhancement Programme (BEEEP).

BEEEP is an export-oriented value chain ecosystem designed to address challenges in mangoes, avocados, and vegetable value chains, enhancing competitiveness and increasing access to identified export markets.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts