540 Magazine - Issue 10 - August 2013

YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY

ISSUE 10

AUGUST - OCTOBER 2013

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Flame Tree Restaurant

MotorReview

DRIVING INTO THE FUTURE The gadget-filled Honda Accord

RUSINGA ISLAND LODGE Stylish lodge on Lake Victoria’s mystery island

KENYAN FILM TALENT

MAKES WAVES AT CANNES ProductReview

Samsung Galaxy S4 ALSO INSIDE THIS ISSUE: LATEST RELEASES • 540 NEWS • ELDORET CITY GUIDE

Issue 10 - AUGUST - OCTOBER ©Hemingways

CoNTeNTS

©Samsung Galaxy S4 / Cannes

18

12

34

25

SPECIAL FEATURES

REGULAR FEATURES

12 KENYAN FILM INDUSTRY

03 IN THIS ISSUE

30 KENYAN PREMIER LEAGUE FOOTBALL

05 540 NEWS

From commuter hell to lakeside heaven – it’s all in 540

Kenyan film talent makes waves at Cannes

Bandari boys chase KPL glory

26 KISUMU is published by

lANd & MArINe PublICATIoNS (keNYA) lTd

Suite A5, 1st floor, Ojijo Plaza, 20 Plums Lane off Ojijo Road, Parklands, PO Box 2022-00621 Village Market, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)20 374 1934 Email: publishing@landmarine.com www.landmarine.com on behalf of

A true French goddess

Riverside Green Suites, Palm Suite, Riverside Drive PO Box 10293-00100, Nairobi, Kenya Tel: +254 (0)20 445 2391/2/3/4/5 Email info@fly540.com www.fly540.com

11 CITYGUIDE Eldoret

18 LOOKINSIDE

Stylish lodge on Lake Victoria’s mystery island

USEFUL INFORMATION 36 THE FLY540 NETWORK 44 TRAVEL INFORMATION

FlY540 AvIATIoN

A haven of comfort and good food

Bustling, booming Kisumu is no mean city

40 CITROËN DS

09 FOODFORTHOUGHT

Essential travel and visa information

47 FLY540 FLEET 48 FLY540 CONTACTS

22 BUSINESSHub

Nairobi to break congestion curse

25 ProductREVIEW Samsung Galaxy S4

26 LATEST RELEASES

Coming to a screen near you...

28 MotorReview Honda Accord

43 KIDZ CORNER

The opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the editor, or any other organisation associated with this publication. No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions. ©2013 Land & Marine Publications (Kenya) Ltd

CoNNeCT WITH FlY540 @fly540aviation www.facebook.com/pages/Fly-540

AfricA’s low cost Airline: www.fly540.com

1

IN THIS ISSUE

IN THIS

ISSue

FROM COMMUTER HELL TO LAKESIDE HEAVEN – IT’S ALL IN 540

W

elcome to this latest edition of ‘540’ – the quarterly in-flight

magazine of Fly540.

It seems I must begin with an

high-flyers of Kenya’s Premier League. the rest of the Dockers’ season.

Below: Food for thought, page 9.

Fly540’s home base of Nairobi has

apology – one I feared I might have to

been plagued by traffic snarl-ups for

make. In the last issue of ‘540’ I boldly

many years, but these may now be

claimed that Kenyan football star

coming to an end or, at the very least,

Victor Wanyama was off to London to

easing. The magazine highlights the

join Arsenal. Well, young Mr Wanyama

city’s transport improvements and

opted to join fellow English Premier

what is still to come.

League side Southampton and we wish him well for the new season.

PArTNerSHIP

We go beyond Nairobi for our regular Look Inside feature by making our way to Rusinga

LATEST RELEASES

Island Lodge on the shores of

The big story of recent weeks for Fly540

Lake Victoria. If you get the

has been the airline’s new partnership

chance to visit this beautiful

with Qatar Airways. Fly540 will be

venue, then take it.

‘interlining’ with the world’s five-star

We have reviewed several

airline; offering regional connections

new cars in recent issues and we are

throughout Kenya (and also to Zanzibar

doing so again with the Honda Accord;

and Juba) for Qatar Airways’ twice-

but we also feature a piece about the

daily Doha-Nairobi flights and the

truly iconic Citroën DS and its links

carrier’s new Doha-Mombasa service.

with East Africa.

We lead this issue with coverage of

look ouT For... 

Let us hope we don’t put the kibosh on

In our “latest releases” section on page 26 you can find up to date information and reviews for the latest film and book releases. One of the films featured in this issue is Disney Pixars Monsters University.

Enjoy your fl ight today with Fly540.

Kenya’s burgeoning fi lm industry and

Please write to me at

its recent successes at international

publishing@landmarine.com if you

festivals. Is Kellywood a new word – or

have any comments to make about the

perhaps it should be Kenyawood?

magazine.

Elsewhere in this magazine, we continue with the footballing theme

gArY gIMSoN

as we profi le Bandari FC, the surprise

Publisher

CITYGUIDE

Our “City guide” section on page 11 takes a look at Eldoret. With ideas on where to stay, what to do and where to eat, as well as practical information you might need during a visit.

AfricA’s low cost Airline: www.fly540.com

3

NEWS

NEWS

FlYINg THe FlAg AT HolIdAY eXPo

M

any visitors were

attracted to the Fly 540

stand at the popular Holidays

2013 Tourism Fair, held at the Sarit Centre in nairobi.

During the event, Fly 540 staff members were on hand to offer helpful guidance to visitors and tell them more about the Fly 540 product.

At the travel show, which was open to the public, visitors could book fl ights and hotels.

Most of the exhibitors offered special deals for bookings taken directly at the fair.

AFRICA’S LOW COST AIRLINE: www.fly540.com

5

NEWS

QATAr AIrWAYS deAl oFFerS SeAMleSS TrAvel

F

ly540 has signed an interline deal with Qatar

airways. The aim of the agreement is to allow the

Qatari national carrier to access a range of Kenyan

domestic and regional destinations served by Fly540.

©Qatar Airways

©Qatar Airways

©Qatar Airways

Fly540 chief executive Don Smith said: “We are delighted to have signed this interline agreement with Qatar Airways, which is our first such agreement.

This deal expands our flight network beyond Africa and to a key growth area of the Middle East. We feel honoured to have been selected to partner one of the world’s premier airlines, which reflects the strength of our offering in Kenya, and we look forward to welcoming Qatar Airways passengers on board.”

Under the terms of the agreement, Qatar Airways passengers will be able to connect with a Fly540 Kenya fl ight at Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and fly to destinations within the Kenyan carrier’s network using one itinerary. This will ensure seamless, through-baggage and hasslefree onward connections for passengers en route to Eldoret, Kisumu, Lamu, Lodwar, Malindi and Mombasa and also across the border into Juba and Zanzibar.

Qatar Airways currently operates two flights a day between Doha and Nairobi, using Airbus A320-100/200 aircraft, and is due to commence flights between Doha and Mombasa in the second half of 2013.

6

Issue 8

Incredible Zanizibar

FOODFOR THOUGHT

A HAveN oF CoMForT ANd good Food

By Joan Wandegi

FLAME TREE RESTAURANT

N

airobi’s rush hour traffic

is legendary – so much so

that most tourists are warned in

advance what to expect when they

arrive in the city. Rush hour on the

But if you are lucky enough to visit the

includes Screwdrivers and signature

Flame Tree on one of its themed nights,

drinks such as Black Jack and Sarova

you won’t need to log on. Especially

Stormy. In addition, the barista counter

popular is Steak Friday, when prime

makes quite an impression. All pastries

beef is cooked to perfection in full view

are made fresh each day. Individualised

busy highway of Valley Road is no

of the diners.

haven in the form of Sarova

WoodeN deCk

different, but there is a comforting Panafric’s Flame Tree restaurant.

With its hospitable staff, flowing

‘The Flame Tree is also a perfect spot for that sundowner cocktail.’

Tales of Kenya’s political past are often told on the restaurant’s large

fountains and aged flame trees on a

wooden deck. After all, this is one of

large wooden deck overlooking the

the places where the Mau Mau freedom

cakes such as Whoopee Pie, Red Velvet,

busy highway, the Flame Tree has

fighters would leave secret messages

White Forest and Death by Chocolate

become a favourite refuge. Among the

in colonial days. “It’s easy to see why

(made of Belgian or Swiss dark chocolate)

delicious items on offer, diners can try

patrons love this place,” says chef Don

are just some of the sweet delights on offer.

exotic fare such as lobster and duck

Githua. “The hotel continues to be a

or choose more local dishes such as

place where political and social issues

breAkFAST

grilled tilapia or red snapper.

are discussed, perhaps because of the

You can even have breakfast at the

history the hotel is attached to.”

Flame Tree – in fact, it’s a favourite

Don’t expect to catch up on your online workload, however, because the restaurant does not offer free Wi-Fi.

The Flame Tree is also a perfect spot for that sundowner cocktail. The menu

morning destination. Fruit and assorted cereals are among the fresh healthy options, and a gluten-free section is available. If a good English fry-up is what you seek, then this too is available. There is also an assortment of cheeses that would make any cheese-lover happy.

FurTHer INForMATIoN For further information visit: www.sarovahotels.com/panafric/flameTree.aspx

AfricA’s low cost Airline: www.fly540.com

9

CITYGUIDE

© www.henjums.com - travelbloghenjum.blogspot.co.uk

Eldoret,

UGANDA

KENYA

S

aid to be Kenya’s fastest-growing city – and sometimes it shows

– Eldoret is also the nation’s fifthlargest in terms of population.

Eldoret

unusual Afrikaner heritage can still be seen in the Dutch Reformed Church, although almost all of the Akrikaners are long gone.

Located in the heart of one of the country’s most fertile areas of farmland, Eldoret is home to Moi University.

The city is blessed with an impressive and disproportionately large international airport that owes its existence largely to the efforts of former president Daniel arap Moi to improve the infra-

WHERE TO STAY 

Worth a visit... 

Kerio View Hotel

It has to be said that Eldoret is not one of Kenya’s most attractive towns, but the surrounding countryside is delightful.

Owned by a Belgian and popular with Iten athletes. www.kerioview.com Convenient for town and airport. www.pgkenya.com

overlooked

Eldoret Club

lacks the top-quality accommodation one might expect in a place of its size and regional prominence. It is certainly overlooked by foreign visitors to Kenya.

The city is perhaps best known as the home of many of Kenya’s top distance runners. Nearby is the small town of Iten which, with the support of the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF), has become synonymous with altitude training for many of the world’s top athletes. The town’s

The Dutch Reformed Church

This is one of the last relics on Eldoret ‘s Afrikaner past

Pine Tree Garden

structure of his home region.

Eldoret is off the main tourist routes and

KENYA

The Eldoret Club

Still a bastion of peace and ageless tranquility in a busy city.

A private club dating from 1924. Non-members can stay, however, and it has a fine golf course. www.eldoretclub.co.ke

Watercrest Garden

Kruger Farm

Set in the Sergoit Hills, just outside Eldoret, the farm is a wildlife conservancy covering about 5,000 acres. Visitors can tour the farm by vehicle or, alternatively, walk to view giraffe, oryx and other game.

Waterfalls

Simple, inexpensive guesthouse in a peaceful location with friendly staff. www.watercrestgarden.com

There are two impressive waterfalls in the area around Eldoret:

PLACES TO EAT & DRINK 

Koromosho Falls, just off the Kipkenyo Road, is a popular place for picnics.

Sunjeel Food Palace

Ngara Falls, near Eldoret International Airport, is also a good place for picnics and for watching the aircraft take off and land.

Good food, keen prices

Mamma Mia

Serves excellent Indian cuisine as well as Italian dishes such as pizza.

Africa’s low cost airline: www.fly540.com

11

Kenyan film talent makes waves at Cannes © FDC / C. Duchène / Cannes

By Lucy Cook

12

Issue 8

Kenyan talent at Cannes

E

ach summer, the movers and shakers in the international

movie industry head for the French Riviera to attend the Cannes Film

Festival – a benchmark for the year’s cators for future film production and success throughout the world.

The major prizes, the Palme d’Or and Grand Prix, confer kudos on the recipients, who can expect to enjoy both critical acclaim and a surge in box office receipts. In the 66 years since the festival started, winners have included Quentin Tarantino’s ‘Pulp Fiction’ and

©Samsung Galaxy S4 / Cannes

film-making and one of the key indi-

FILM STARS 

festival is an opportunity for filmmakers to showcase their work as well as to meet the cream of the international

Above: Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio at this years Cannes film festival.

Right: Agreements are in place to encourage the growth of the Kenyan film industry.

film community and an ideal spot to pitch and broker deals for forthcoming projects.

The Kenyan pavilion was located in the festival’s market and featured special

unrepresented

events each day including breakfasts

Until now, East African film has been

with talks from industry leaders. Money

unrepresented at Cannes – something

is made at the festival market and

that needed to be remedied when you

this was an excellent showcase for the

consider how much the festival can

prestigious work and endless potential

©Kenya Film Commission / Cannes

Martin Scorsese’s ‘Taxi Driver’. The

an output to rival India’s prolific ‘Bolly-

‘The movement of Kenya into this important arena is giving African film a rising claim to the international film circuit’

wood’ industry and Hollywood itself.

South Africa has produced Oscarwinning films with high production values that are enjoyed at home and internationally. They include the Oscar-nominated ‘District 9’. directed

influence the distribution and success

of Kenya’s film industry. The Kenya

by Neill Blomkamp, and ‘Tsotsi’,

of the films it showcases. This all looks

pavilion is a sure sign of the upward

which won the Oscar for Best Foreign

set to change, however, as a result of

movement of Kenya’s film industry.

Language Film in 2006.

the 2013 festival in late May. With no

It is the result of cooperation agree-

less a person than Steven Spielberg

ments between France and Kenya and

buzz

presiding over the jury who decided

between South Africa and Kenya. These

The quality of Kenyan film is undeni-

the winners, the glamorous event was

agreements are designed to encourage

able and it is partly these excellent

also an exciting ‘first’ for East Africa as

a two-way understanding between the

production values that are creating a

it featured for the first time a pavilion

countries involved in order to make film

buzz on a global scale. One of Kenya’s

dedicated to Kenya.

production and funding much easier,

most notable film companies is Ginger

creating a productive working environ-

Ink, owned by Ginger and Guy Wilson,

ment for each. The movement of Kenya

who have joined forces with One Fine

into this important arena is giving

Day Films, owned by German born

African film a rising claim to the interna-

director Tom Tykwer. Together they

tional film circuit.

are helping to nurture new talent

© FDC / Cannes

To date, South Africa and Nigeria

through the One Fine Day film work-

have dominated the African film

shop, which aims to provide training,

industry. Nigeria’s ‘Nollywood’ produces

opportunities and funding for Kenya’s

films relatively cheaply and on a huge

filmmakers to learn skills and produce

scale with good financial returns and

authentic Kenyan projects. Estab-

Africa’s low cost airline: www.fly540.com

13

Saracen Media

Kenyan talent at Cannes lished in 2008, One Fine Day Films has produced noteworthy and popular films that have attracted international interest and several awards at festivals worldwide. In 2012 it produced ‘Nairobi Half Life’, directed by Tosh Gitonga, which was a runaway success.

This smash-hit movie was Kenya’s first-ever submission for the Oscars.

The film enjoyed a long run in Kenyan cinemas, outselling the latest James

future Ginger Wilson, joint owner of Ginger Ink, spoke recently about the One Fine Day

©Bella Halben

Bond film domestically.

Workshop and the future of Kenyan film.

The latest film, ‘Something Neces-

with the idea of training film makers,

sary’, is directed by Judy Kibinge.

Ginger was not bowled over but went on

With a female director so prominent

to co-produce, ‘Soul Boy’ as the idea of

at the early stages of the Kenyan film

creating new and innovative films that

industry, it is fair to ask if Kenya

could only be produced in Kenya was

is blazing a trail for female film-

wholly appealing and this is how the One

makers. Ginger confirms that the

Fine Day Workshop came into being.

male-to-female ratio of attendees at

Asked about the success of ‘Nairobi

‘With so much raw talent, Kenya looks set to take the film world by storm’

the workshop is quite even. Female representation in such high numbers is unusual in the more established film industries, particularly Hollywood.

© Bella Halben

When first approached by Tom Tykwer

HOME-GROWN TALENT

This positive step is significant for female filmmakers globally.

challenges Despite such glowing prospects, Kenya’s

‘Veve’, an ensemble piece about the highadrenalin khat industry in Kenya, is due for release in the near future and looks set to be a roaring success.

Half Life’, Ginger said: “It speaks to the

film industry faces challenges. Speak to

audience in a way that would never

budding filmmakers the world over and

happen with films made by someone

they will tell you about the agonies of

not from Kenya.” As Ginger explains,

funding. Filmmaking is not cheap, and

here could be more international distri-

these films also offer something never

yet the One Fine Day Film Workshop is

bution; and festivals like Cannes help to

seen before. For example, if you take a

creating spaces where filmmaking can

create interest overseas by providing

familiar Hollywood movie and trans-

happen with artistic merit and enter-

a showcase and acknowledging merit

pose it to Kenya, you have something

taining results.

through prizes. The Kenya pavilion at

new and fresh. “Imagine watching

International money seems to

Cannes offers an international focus

‘Fight Club’ made in Kibera with an

be the key and is standard in the

and new opportunities for the Kenyan

Elvis Presley soundtrack,” said Ginger.

film industry, particularly for films

film industry and this, in turn, can

produced independently from the

translate into funding.

There is no question that Kenyan film is new and exciting. Ginger takes

Hollywood system. For example,

this further by suggesting how the

the UK and France often team up to

the funding and skills in place for

Kenyan industry could change the

produce movies and international

this generation of young filmmakers,

face of film for the better. “The world is

cooperation, like that between Kenya

Kenya could represent the renaissance

bored with American movies and Euro-

and France, should help. The other

of film. With all this, a bright produc-

pean movies,” she said. “They want to

issue is distribution and how to put

tion future and ‘Veve’ on its way, who

see something completely new.” And she

money back into the filmmakers’

knows? Maybe next year will produce

believes this can be found in Kenya.

pockets to make more movies. The key

a Kenyan winner of the Palme d’Or.

As Ginger Wilson points out, with

Africa’s low cost airline: www.fly540.com

15

Stylish lodge on Lake Victoria’s mystery island

T

ucked away in the north-eastern corner of Lake Victoria, the

world’s second-largest freshwater

lake, Rusinga Island looks like the

perfect setting for an adventure film combining mystery and excitement with ancient legend.

Much of the island’s air of mystery is due to the discovery in 1948 of a Proconsul skull, believed to be the missing link between ape and man, by the renowned archaeologist Mary Leakey. Fossilised animal remains, created when the Kisingiri volcano erupted 18 million years ago, can be found all over the island, making Rusinga and the neighbouring islands a goldmine for archaeologists.

Rusinga has a population of about

by Joan Wandegi

18

Issue 8

22,000. The shoreline is dotted with fishing communities who follow the

©Rusinga Island Lodge

shoals as they move around the lake in the course of each year. Every day at sunset there is a magical sight as the fishermen row out into the lake to place floating lights on the water.

Soon afterwards, millions of tiny flies swarm above the lights, attracting the fish in the dark waters below.

The men, in their carved mahogany boats, tell old folk tales and crack jokes until sunrise. The fish, mostly tilapia and Nile perch, are hurled ashore in nets ready to be dried or sold fresh to local hotels, with some even reaching the leafy suburbs of Nairobi.

reopened Nestled in the heart of Rusinga Island is Rusinga Island Lodge. Recently reopened after a three-month refurbishment, the lodge now has 16 beautia family suite, to be added by September 2013. One of the lodge’s signature attributes is personalised service from check-in to check-out.

water attractions  Above: A cooling dip awaits Right: Kids have fun

The lodge has an exotic charm thanks to the attractive thatched style of the cottages and dining area,

©Rusinga Island Lodge

ful cottages with three more, including

Meals are served personally to each

inspired by Zimbabwean artisans. In

guest. The chef uses local ingredients

the evenings the water laps against the

to create inspired dishes. These range

lodge walls, creating a soothing sound

from whole tilapia topped with a freshly

as guests enjoy a candle-lit dinner on

made tomato salsa to a fish pie featur-

the lawn. Most cottages have beauti-

ing hard-boiled eggs in a creamy sauce

ful views of the lake and surround-

to freshly cut and seasoned fruit. Meals

ing islands. Each room is tastefully

can be enjoyed under the lodge’s majes-

decorated and furnished, and equipped

tic fig tree, said to be 200 years old, or

with ultra-modern amenities.

in the quaint dining room, as classical music plays in the background. ©Rusinga Island Lodge

©Rusinga Island Lodge

LOOKINSIDE: rusinga Island Lodge

Guests can also go cycling around

Cocktails

Rusinga island and also visit by boat

When the sun begins to warm up,

the neighbouring Mfangano Island,

guests can head for the cool blue water

with an opportunity to admire the

of the swimming pool, where cocktails

ancient rock paintings.

and freshly squeezed juices are served.

Families visiting from September can

Rusinga Island contains the grave of one of Kenya’s most renowned leaders,

enjoy the many animation activities and

Tom Mboya, who was assassinated in

services for young children including

1969. Many tourists go to see his mauso-

babysitting and child care options.

leum. Family heirlooms are stored in an

Activities include jet-skiing, fishing and birdwatching excursions. Visits to

impressive bullet-shaped building which represents the bullet that killed Mboya.

Ruma National Park, home of the indigenous roan antelope, can be organised for individuals or groups.

More information  Website: http://www.rusinga.com

Africa’s low cost airline: www.fly540.com

19

ADVERTORIAL

BUSINESSHub: Nairobi Congestion

nairobi to break ConGestion Curse

22

Issue 9

T

his may come as a surprise, but

Nairobi does not even feature on a

list of the world’s most congested cities.

The fact that Nairobi is not up there with São Paulo, Bangkok and Jakarta in the rankings will bring little comfort to those living and working in the Kenyan capital, where commuting is often the stuff of nightmares and where even the hint of a light shower miraculously brings traffic to an immediate standstill.

So how do you solve a problem like Nairobi? Well, it’s a problem that has been puzzling traffic engineers and

close to the Nairobi Game Park boundary,

city planners for years. There has been

is also under construction.

no shortage of head-scratching, but little progress has been registered.

At last it seems that the log jam

an end in siGHt?  Above: A city on the move

While these new roads are long overdue, the city is adopting some no-cost

Left: Notorious for its jams

measures to improve the flow of traffic.

(in every sense) is about to be broken.

Increasing the size and capacity of public

link to Jomo Kenyatta International

To be fair, Nairobi had already made

service vehicles (PSVs) may also have an

Airport (JKIA), costing KES 6 billion,

some positive steps towards easing

impact at the margin, helping to reduce

that will connect with Syokamau

the gridlock; although this may not be

congestion in urban areas as numbers of

Station. Work is expected to begin

apparent to those who have to drive into

the ubiquitous 14-seat matatus decline

later this year. In addition to JKIA,

or around the city on a day-to-day basis.

and are replaced by buses.

new stations will be built at Donholm,

But a better and more workable remedy

Embakasi village, Mutindwa, Nyayo,

reMedies

to Nairobi’s jams no doubt lies in the

Limuru Road, Olympic and several

Some remedies are at hand, for which

creation of a dense network of commuter

other areas around the city.

thanks must go to the Chinese – and,

rail lines, the first of which was completed

of course, welcome funding from the

in late 2012. This network will go some

CYClinG

Japanese. The Thika superhighway

way to replacing the jam-packed matatus

Some European cities have seen a

bears witness to the investment,

and mostly overcrowded buses.

sharp increase in cycling as a way for

ingenuity and energy of a small army of Chinese road builders who,

InfraCo, the UK-based fi rm working with Kenya Railways Co (KRC) on the

‘The Thika superhighway bears witness to the investment, ingenuity and energy of a small army of Chinese road builders who, with the assistance of local experts, have carved out the new road and transformed the lives of the once-weary commuters in this part of town’

commuters to beat the traffic, stay fit and keep travel costs to a minimum.

While the occasional lean, lycra-clad rider can be spotted on the streets of Nairobi, life expectancy must be short and insurance premiums high.

Nevertheless, Silas Kinoti, head honcho of Kenya Urban Roads Authority, offered some hope to wouldbe bike riders by saying that transport plans not only involved reducing travel times for drivers but also included

with the assistance of local experts,

$200 million Nairobi Commuter Rail

decongesting the surrounding roads

have carved out the new road and

Project, says: “The project will involve

and enhancing the security, safety and

transformed the lives of the once-

the rehabilitation of approximately

convenience of pedestrians and cyclists

weary commuters in this part of town.

160 km of the existing rail system

by creating footpaths and cycle lanes.

In addition, the new KES 1.9 billion

within Nairobi.” Pivotal to the new

So, beyond the super new road and

western ring road is set to open mid

set-up is Syokamau Station, located

rail networks, someone in authority has

August. New highways in the pipeline

alongside Mombasa Road, which will be

recognised the need for designated cycle

include the expansion of Lang’ata Road to

the main interchange point.

lanes. Now, that would make Nairobi an

Karen – a particular trouble spot for much

The second phase, comprising an

even more pleasant place in which to live

of the day and early evening – while a

impressive 26 new stations, starts

and work. New Nairobi governor Evans

southern by-pass, running controversially

soon, including a much-needed rail

Kidero, please take note.

AfricA’s low cost Airline: www.fly540.com

23

ProductReview

Samsung Galaxy S4

one VerY sMart pHone T

he Samsung Galaxy S4 is one

of the most eagerly anticipated

android phones to date, garnering

rumour, two launches and numerous

mumblings before its release date. So

but in practice it is exceedingly useful.

One has front stereo speakers offering

The phone automatically detects

superior sound quality. Also there is no

when you are watching a video. When

FM radio, in contrast with the Galaxy

the screen is no longer being viewed,

S3 and the HTC One.

the video is paused automatically.

On balance, the Galaxy S4 is a

This means you never have to miss

clever gadget with an abundance of

a moment, even when someone

functionality. Its design is unlikely to

interrupts with a distracting question.

attract envious stares; but it is solid,

about the Galaxy S4 is the design. Aside

The eye-tracking has been taken to

smart and well worth the price tag.

from a subtle diamond pattern, some

another level for

small changes to the shape and a slight

the Galaxy S4

increase in size, it is almost identical

with the ability

to the S3. Compared with rivals such

to scroll up and

as the HTC One and the iPhone, the

down web pages

design is not innovative or elegant; but

with a tilt of

where the Galaxy S4 comes into its own

the head.

what is the hype and why choose the

S4 over the S3 or rival smart phones?

The fi rst and most noticeable thing

is functionality. Samsung has added

design is not innovative or elegant; but where the S4 comes into its own is functionality’

In addition, the

features to the point of distraction. In

Galaxy S4 carries the Knox

fact, they are so plentiful that most

tracking system, which lets

users will only scratch the surface of

you fi nd your handset if lost

what this gadget can do.

or stolen; the S Translator,

For those who enjoy watching fi lms

‘Compared with rivals the

which can translate into

on the move, there is the eye-tracking

nine languages through text

feature. It may sound like a gimmick,

or speech; and the S Health feature, which tracks the food and exercise of the user.

superb With the bonus of superb full HD screen quality, this phone is a winning combination of quality and functionality. The battery life is excellent, too, and the

CaMera triCks  The camera in the Galaxy S4 has useful features like the dual shot function, which allows you to take the picture in two directions, forward and backwards, so you be in the picture, too. It is also possible to animate sections of a picture; to shoot a continuous burst of photos and then select your favourites, discarding the rest; and the eraser, which allows you to erase parts of a photo such as an unwanted moving object.

removable back cover allows you to carry a spare for long trips or power-sapping apps.

The phone is rather too big for comfortable use and the mono speaker on the back is disappointing when combined with a high quality HD screen, particularly when the HTC

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25

LATEST RELEASES

BOOKWORM  stranGe pilGriMaGes

a Hill of fools

we need new naMes

by Achmat Dangor

by Mtutuzeli Nyoka

by NoViolet Bulawayo

An intriguing and haunting collection of short stories, ‘Strange Pilgrimages’ is the latest offering from the award-winning pen of Achmat Dangor. Each tale takes the reader on a journey into the complex world of characters whose association with the past explores what it means to be South African. Memory – and in particular how the effects of memory have played an integral part in the ‘struggle years’ – is the theme of a group of stories with a nostalgic yet modern sentiment. They deal with the nature of love through identity, country, place and individual perceptions. Despite their complexity, these stories are easy to read as well as absorbing.

Crafted in a traditional storytelling style reminiscent of African oral history, Mtutuzeli Nyoka’s ‘A Hill of Fools’ takes a look at the complex subject of slavery completely set on the continent of Africa through its effects on the ordinary African person. In the fictional African country of Doma, corruption is prevalent under the rule of King Kutu, a dictator focused on wealth, land and women. When Queen Anuba is murdered, however, a high-ranking police officer, Anday, is called in by the king to investigate the case. Anday finds himself a policeman-turnedleader and becomes instrumental in leading the people to rise against the oppressor.

26

Issue 9

Living in a violent and unstable Zimbabwe, 10-year-old Darling and her friends navigate a world in which homes have been destroyed, schools have closed and fathers have left; but Darling is lucky enough to have an aunt who lives in America. Making the journey with ideas of a new life, Darling’s promises of hope in a new land are called in to question. In a novel that examines ideas of immigration, displacement and place through the perspective of a child, NoViolet Bulawayo’s debut novel offers a story that is difficult to forget.

LATESTRELEASES

BLOCKBUSTERS  WORLD WAR Z

Starring: Brad Pitt, Mireille Enos, Eric West Director: Marc Forster Genre: Action, horror, drama ‘World War Z’ is a film adaptation of the 2006 best-seller of the same title written by Max Brooks, son of director Mel Brooks and actress Anne Bancroft. The runaway success of the novel has led to an action-packed blockbuster with a horror twist in which a zombie pandemic sweeps the world and a United Nations employee, Gerry Lane (Brad Pitt), is in a race against time to save humanity.

KICK-ASS 2

Starring: Chloë Grace Moretz, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jim Carrey Director: Jeff Wadlow Genre: Action, comedy The long-awaited sequel to the smash-hit action comedy ‘Kick-Ass’ has finally made it to the screen. The movie picks up the story of Dave/KickAss (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) and Mindy/Hit Girl (Chloe Moretz) as they are preparing to graduate from high school and embark on a venture as a crime-fighting team. But as Mindy’s strict parents foil her crime-fighting plans, Dave joins a group of masked vigilantes and comes face to face with a vengeful Red Mist (Christopher Mintz-Plasse).

MONSTERS UNIVERSITY

Starring: John Goodman, Nathan Fillion, Steve Buscemi Director: Dan Scanlon Genre: Animation, family, comedy.

Twelve years after the original ‘Monsters Inc’ the team at Pixar have made ‘Monsters University’, a prequel to keep the whole family entertained. After the antics in ‘Monsters Inc’ it would be safe to think that Mike and Sully were always the best of friends; but a trip back to their days at Monsters University may show that this was not always so. How did they settle their differences to become the best of friends?

THE COMPANY YOU KEEP aMeriCanaH

by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie From the pen of multi-award-winning Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, author of ‘Half of a Yellow Sun’ and ‘Purple Hibiscus’, comes her latest book, ‘Americanah.’ This is a truly international novel of relocation, migration and perceptions of race set in the varied locations of Adichie’s home country of Nigeria; England; and the USA. The novel starts in Lagos, where teenagers Ifemelu and Obinze fall in love. Because of the growing dysfunction and corruption of the country, however, Ifemelu and Obinze decide to leave, something many others were doing at that time. Obinze is refused entry to post-9/11 America and must go to England, while Ifemelu stays on the US East Coast. What follows is a story of love, home and American culture seen from the outside.

Starring: Robert Redford, Shia LaBeouf, Julie Christie Director: Robert Redford Genre: Thriller Living in the suburbs, public interest lawyer and single father Jim Grant (Robert Redford) had led a peaceful and quiet life. However, when Ben Shepard (Shia LaBeouf) turns up exposing the truth about Jim’s true identity, he must go on the run from the FBI in an effort to locate the person who can clear his name.

THE WOLVERINE

Starring: Hugh Jackman, Famke Janssen, Will Yun Lee Director: James Mangold Genre: Action, adventure Hugh Jackman has reprised his role as X-Men’s Wolverine in the sequel to 2009’s ‘X-Men Origins: Wolverine’. ‘The Wolverine’ takes its inspiration from the 1980s Chris Claremont and Frank Miller Marvel incarnation that saw Wolverine explore Japan; and this is the setting for the film, which sees an encounter with an enemy from Wolverine’s past that will impact on his future.

AfricA’s low cost Airline: www.fly540.com

Great fun

– but don’t Get Carried awaY

Honda’s latest Accord features a slew of technology.

But does that automatically make it a good car?

By Karl Peskett

T

he autonomous car isn’t far

away. Just ask Google. The inter-

net giant has been testing a fleet of

driverless cars, even showcasing a video of one driving a blind man to a fast food outlet. Google says

they’re between three to five years away from bringing one to the

market. Looking at the latest Honda Accord, however, you’d swear we’re

HiGH teCH 

already there.

The Accord is equipped with radar-

All the latest musthave gadgets

based cruise control. You simply set your cruising speed and the car accelerates to that speed and maintains it. If another car enters the lane in front of you, the

28

Issue 9

MotorReview: Honda Accord

Caption  Text

to demonstrate your blind spot on a central screen. The car has an anti-collision system that alerts you to a crash and brakes if you don’t do it yourself.

In addition, the new Accord comes with heated leather seats, a crystalclear satnav screen, an excellent stereo system, and speakers that oppose the frequency of road noise to cancel it out and make the cabin quieter.

usabilitY For all the car’s technology, however, a bit more thought into usability wouldn’t have gone astray. There are two central screens, one controlled by touch and the other by joystick. That’s one too many.

Some of the plastics are too hard and easy to scuff, although the wood grain is lovely.

The car is rather bland to drive and the steering is a bit wooden. In fourcylinder guise, it can struggle with the Accord’s weight, while the automatic is set up for economy, making rapid Accord will brake to keep a set distance, even braking when traffic comes to a stop. So that’s the pedal-work sorted; what about the steering? Ah, that is done by a button on the wheel, below the cruise control. Press the button and the computer ‘reads’ the dotted or solid lines

‘The new Accord uses cameras to demonstrate your blind spot on a central screen and has an anti-collision system that alerts you to a crash’

marking the lane and actively steers the car to stay in lane, even following gentle

progress a reasonable ask. At least the

curves along a highway.

car rides reasonably well and, being a

Yep, the car that drives itself. It’s scarily accurate and absolutely unset-

Honda, it should be bulletproof for years.

Sure, there are better driving rivals

tling. Good thing you can take over

out there – Mazda6, we’re looking at you

manual control of it all.

– but if you like a lot of toys in your car,

But that’s not the end of the bells and whistles. The new Accord uses cameras

the Accord wins hands down. Just try to resist the urge to let it drive itself….

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29

Š Kenya Ports Authority

E U G A E L R E I M E R P N KEN YA

bandari boYs CHase GlorY

30

Issue 9

FOOTBALL: BANDARI F.C.

W

hat’s with these johnny-come-

lately Bandari guys from down

at the coast?

Just up from FKF Division One, surely the upstart Dockers should be content just to stay in the Premier League in their fi rst season back in the top fl ight. Yet here they are challenging for the Kenyan Premier League (KPL) title; handily placed ahead of the some nation’s best-supported teams.

So how has this previously underperforming team been turned around and what is the secret of its new-found, high-flying success?

deep poCkets Is it just the deep pockets of the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA)? After all, it’s their team. Or perhaps the efficacious

‘Bandari’s league position seems to

be the result of good old-fashioned hard work, solid preparation and the decision to avoid signing big-name stars, and instead bring on board carefully targeted young, energetic players’

sea air of Mombasa has something to do with it? If so, then you might expect Mombasa’s other team, the Coast Stars, to be on a roll, too. But no.

In fact, Bandari’s league position seems to be the result of good old-fashioned hard work, solid preparation and a key close-season decision – namely, to avoid signing big-name stars and instead bring on board carefully targeted young, energetic but experienced KPL players.

pre season Perhaps the writing was on the wall when Bandari performed strongly in pre-season; winning all the team’s build-up games and romping home in a tournament involving all the coastbased teams. The two-week delay to the start of this year’s KPL season © Kenya Ports Authority

also helped former national team head coach and now the man in charge at the coast, Twahir Muhiddin, to prepare his men properly for the gruelling months ahead.

Although they are riding high in the KPL, however, the Blues have to suffer the indignity of playing all their home

kenYa's best?  Left: Bandari take control Insert: Bandari FC

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31

games at the KPA’s rather makeshift Mbaraki Sports Club while the more salubrious Mombasa Municipal Stadium is being renovated. Completion of this work is set for year end. With attendances

© Kenya Ports Authority

FOOTBALL: Bandari F.C.

of between 500 and 1,500, the Sports Club is probably all right for this season – although visits by mighty Gor Mahia or AFC Leopards can swell the crowd as Luos and Luhyas living at the coast come to support their respective teams.

If the club is to make further progress, then Bandari certainly needs to broaden its fan base beyond a hard-core group of loyal KPA workers. Club secretary Bernard Oloo would be the first to agree.

Here come bandari 

“The wider community hasn’t been

says Mr Oloo. But he adds: “There is

brought wholeheartedly on board,” he

some optimism and great hope from the

admits. “But this is an area that the

home supporters, given the fine results

Above: Ready to go

management is seriously working on.”

that the team has been posting of late.

Below left: Honing skills on the training ground

This, in essence, is encouraging more

position

fans to attend the Bandari games and

goalkeeper Wilson Obungu, midfielder

An obviously delighted Mr Oloo says

has given football fans at the coast some-

Crispin Odulla, defenders Aboud Omar

the team is in a good position to chal-

thing to cheer about. It has been a while

and Abdulatiff Omar and pacey winger

lenge for the title given its current

since they witnessed top-flight football.”

AliBai Ahmed.

‘Bandari’s success is all the more

remarkable since its players are not full-time professionals.’ form. But he's not getting carried away

Bandari’s success is all the more

As the team progresses with its stellar performances, the management is likely to set aside funds for air transport and instead of relying on the KPA bus. Being the only KPL team at the coast, the Dockers are forced to travel great distances to honour fixtures.

and acknowledges that football can be

remarkable since its players are not full-

unpredictable.

time professionals. Some even work at

watch out

KPA. As Bandari progresses and as KPA

In any case, watch out you, big city

funds allow, however, there is likely to

folk in Nairobi and sugar men from the

be pressure to transform the Blues into

west, the pwani boys have got you in

a more professional set-up – especially

their sights. In fact, it’s not impossible

in view of the growing number of foreign

that Bandari could win the KPL this

players such as Liberians, Nigerians and

season and then compete in next year’s

Tanzanians in the squad.

CAF Champions League.

“The league is a marathon and

© Kenya Ports Authority

anything can happen in the second leg,”

Moreover, Bandari’s home-grown

But let’s not get too carried away.

star players are getting noticed at

Let the Bandari fans be happy with a

a national level. Five have already

top-half finish, as even this position

been called up to the Harambee Stars:

was just a dream a few months back.

bUSTLING, bOOMING kISUMU IS NO MEaN CITY

Pic © Samuel Otieno/Greatlakes Corporate Communication Ltd

34

Issue 8

KISUMU CITY

O

ver a century ago Kisumu was

one of Kenya’s fastest-developing

towns. Back in 1901, when it was

known as Port Florence, Kisumu was home to a large number of both local

and international people in search of

wealth. They were hoping to share in the benefits of a £5 million invest-

ment by the British Government in the East African railway.

Today, Kisumu is the third-largest city in Kenya, with a population of just under 400,000. The busy town swarms with boda bodas, the most popular form of transport. These often colourful taxis are not recommended for the faint-hearted as they weave in and out of the traffic, often belting out popular tunes from a cleverly attached sound system at the back.

MARKETS The streets are dotted with markets, selling mostly fish – fresh, dried and

Pic © Samuel Otieno/Greatlakes Corporate Communication Ltd

LAKE-SIDE LIFE  Above: A city on the move Right: Tasty grilled fish

smoked – caught in Lake Victoria. The shores of this lake are also a popular

brought an immediate economic boost.

place for residents to rest and relax.

This can be seen, for example, in the

At the weekend, car owners flock to

increasing trade being enjoyed by the

Dunga Beach, close to the city centre,

fi shing industry and the flower-grow-

where they can enjoy lunch – typically

ing sector.

deep-fried fish – while their cars are washed by the lakeside.

In 2006 Kisumu was designated the

In addition, the tourist circuit has benefited hugely. Many exciting new attractions have appeared in the past

‘Many exciting new attractions have appeared in the past decade. One of these is the Kisumu Impala Sanctuary, just 3 km from the city centre’

open up, giving visitors an opportunity to see the villages where his ancestors lived and even eat at one of the many restaurants named after the United States president.

world’s fi rst United Nations Millennium

decade. One of these is the Kisumu

City by UN-Habitat owing to its influ-

Impala Sanctuary, just 3 km from the

EASYGOING

ence and strategic location. As a result,

city centre, where guests can see a

The easygoing nature of Kisumu can

the town has begun to develop rapidly

variety of wildlife including the olive

perhaps be attributed to the cultural

after a long economic standstill. The

baboon and the endangered sitatunga

melting pot of the residents, who predom-

Kenyan government has pumped

antelope as well as a variety of bird

inately belong to the African, Asian and

millions of dollars into Kisumu’s road

and reptile species.

European communities. The rich Luo

network with a view to easing conges-

heritage has also played a key role in

tion in the city as well as opening up

OBAMA

road travel to the rest of the country.

Then, of course, there is the Barack

popular tourist attractions is the Kisumu

Kisumu International Airport, elevat-

Obama Effect. When the world learnt

Museum, run by Museums of Kenya,

ed to international status as the result

that President Obama had roots in

where historical cultural as well as

of a multi-million-dollar upgrade, has

Kisumu, the tourism circuits began to

ethnographic artefacts can be viewed.

shaping the city. One of the city’s most

AfricA’s low cost Airline: www.fly540.com

35

THE FLY540

OW

COST AIR L

E IN

AFRICAS L

NETWORK AT: E N m NLI o O c .

K 0 BOO ly54

A FR

36

Issue 9

w.f w w

ICA

NETWORK

SOUTH SUDAN Juba

Lodwar

KENYA Eldoret Kisumu

Nairobi

Lamu Malindi

Mombasa

TANZANIA Zanzibar

AfricA’s low cost Airline: www.fly540.com

37

ADVERTORIAL

From boulevards to bush trails…

DS WaS a TRUE FRENCH GODDESS When the Kenyan driver Joginder Singh won the East African Safari Rally in 1965, he did it in a Volvo.

But for the French company Citroën, too, this was a milestone event. It showed the rugged side of what many still regard as the most beautiful saloon car of all time – the Citroën DS19. Out of 85 vehicles at the start of the rally, only 16 finished – and five of those were DS19s.

S

even years after Jaguar took the London Motor Show by

storm with its quick and curvaceous XK120 roadster, the French public were astounded by the revolution-

ary design of what has become one of the great automotive classics – the Citroën DS.

The model name DS is a sly pun in French, because it’s pronounced ‘déesse’, meaning ‘goddess’. And the DS really was a goddess of the machine world. No-one had ever seen anything quite like it outside of the pages of a science fiction comic.

The DS seemed to break all the rules of

40

Issue 10

FLASHback: Citroën DS conventional car design. Its bonnet,

Motoring journalists hailed the new

wings and tail were blended seamless-

car as a symbol of French engineering

ly into a single shark-like body, with

prowess. It quickly became the car of

only the barrel-shaped headlights to

choice for France’s top people, includ-

break the flow of its futuristic lines.

ing the President. It was also a ray of

The purity of its shape was no coin-

sunshine for the French public after

cidence. The body had been styled by

years of austerity and hardship in the

Flaminio Bertoni, an Italian sculptor

aftermath of the Second World War. It

and industrial designer, in collabora-

gave a boost to the nation’s confidence,

tion with the French aeronautical

pointing the way to future innovations

engineer André Lefèbvre.

and achievements.

COOL LOOK

same nation who produced the Citroën

low-slung appearance, which added to the effect of a swimming shark. This was due

The Citroën DS has a special place in the postwar history of France, because it probably saved the life of President Charles de Gaulle The terrorist organisation known as the OAS (the ‘Secret Army Organisation’) had planned to assassinate de Gaulle in revenge for giving up the French colony of Algeria. On 22 August 1962 a dozen OAS gunmen opened fire on the President’s chauffeur-driven Citroën DS as he travelled with his wife from the Élysée Palace to Orly Airport. Two of his motorcycle outriders were killed, but the chauffeur was able to accelerate out of the skid and drive to safety thanks to the car’s superior suspension system.

© Citroën

Another striking feature of the DS was its

Indeed, it is no coincidence that the

SAVED BY A CITROËN

to the car’s hydropneumatic self-levelling suspension, which not only gave it a very cool look on the move but also greatly enhanced its ride and handling. Front-wheel disc brakes made it easier to stop, too.

And the list of innovations kept coming. It was the fi rst car to be fitted with high-level indicator lights – a style feature at the tail-end of the roofl ine. It had a single-spoke steering wheel that allowed the driver to see the dashtion of thin A and B pillars, a one-piece

DS also gave us the futuristic Eiffel

windscreen and a deeper than normal

Tower, the amazing Paris Métro with

passenger cabin meant that all-round

its prefabricated stations and rubber-

visibility was second to none.

tyred trains, the beautiful racing

To say that the DS – the original

cars of Ettore Bugatti, the ‘inside-out’

model was called the DS19 – caused a

architecture of the Pompidou Centre,

sensation at the Paris Motor Show on

the TGV high-speed rail system and

5 October 1955 would be an under-

(in collaboration with Great Britain)

statement. By the end of the fi rst day,

the Concorde supersonic airliner and

Citroën had taken 12,000 orders.

the Channel Tunnel.

‘The body had been styled by Flaminio Bertoni, an Italian sculptor and industrial designer, in collaboration with the French aeronautical engineer André Lefèbvre’

© Citroën

board more easily. And the combina-

DYNAMIC DYNASTY The revolutionary design of the DS was the result of years of secret development. It was the successor to another famous Citroën, the frontwheel-drive Traction Avant, which caused a stir on its debut in 1934 with its elegant lines and superior handling.

The DS continued to be produced until 1975 in various forms including an estate version, the Safari.

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41

KIDZCORNER

KIDZ CORNER SPORTY WORDSEARCH Can you find the words listed below in the letter grid?

Football SQUASH Marathon Javelin Cricket Golf DISCUS BMX POLO JUDO

J D A C D J E L A

I

F G U H L S

V S P D

I

A Q B

E C O J B U K M L U L T A M O X I

RIDDLE ME THIS...

S O S G O L F

What has one head, one foot and four legs?

N O H T A R A M

Which weighs more, a ton of feathers or a ton of bricks?

F C R

Answer: A Bed

Answer: Neither, they both weigh a ton

JOKE TIME! Q. What did the ground say to the earthquake?

C K E T

Q. Why was the maths book sad?

A. Because it had too many problems

Q. Why do seagulls live by the sea?

A. You crack me up!

A. Because if they lived by the bay they would be bagels

Q. Why were the early days of history called the dark ages?

Q. Have you ever seen a catfish?

A. Because there were so many knights

I

A. No. How would they hold the rod and reel?

WORD COUNT

Represen tat ion

The words have to be at least THREE letters long. And you can't use the letter twice in the same word, unless the letter appears twice in the word. Ready, Steady, Go!

Africa’s low cost airline: www.fly540.com

43

FLY540 VISA

M FOR ATION N I

TRAVEL INFORMATION VISA INFORMATION

M

ost nationals require visas

KENYAN VISAS

from the five East African states

Visas are required for most nationals and cost US$50. A visa can be obtained on entry, however we recommended one be obtained before arrival to avoid airport lengthy queues. Visa Application Forms are available online.

Common Market of East and South-

A visa is required by all visitors travelling to Kenya with the exception of those holding a re-entry pass to Kenya and citizens of Ethiopia, San Marino, Turkey and Uruguay.

to enter East Africa. Citizens

require no visas while those from the ern Africa (COMESA) member states have relaxed entry requirements into East Africa.

However, East African member states have their own visa requirements for various nationals.

Note that the reciprocal visa abolition agreements with Germany, Italy, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Spain, and Republic of Ireland no longer apply and nationals of these countries now require a visa.

Kenya Visa Requirements

• Valid passport with sufficient number of unused pages for endorsements abroad. Passport must be signed and valid for at least six months.

• Visa application form duly completed and signed by the applicant.

• Two recent passport size photographs attached to the application form.

• Valid round trip ticket or a letter from your travel agent certifying that the applicant holds prepaid arrangements.

• A self-addressed stamped envelope for express mail, courier, registered mail, etc., if the visa is urgently required. Metered stamps are not acceptable.

• Home and work telephone numbers.

Please fill out the form correctly and enclose the photographs and payment to avoid delay and disappointment.

Standard Visa fees payable by cash to the High Commission of Kenya.

Visa fees charges:

• Multiple entry: US$100 • Single entry: US$50 • Transit Visa: US$20 Passengers can pay in US dollars, British pounds, Euro or Swiss franc.

For more information and to download a Kenya visa application form visit: http://www.immigration.co.ke

44

Issue 9

TravelInformation

SOUTH SUDAN VISAS

Immigration regulations stipulate that anyone going to South Sudan and wishing to travel outside of Khartoum needs a travel permit from the Government of South Sudan. Those travelling to South Sudan from Kenya, should visit the South Sudan Embassy in Kenya.

VACCINA 0 T 54

Requirements:

All applicants to launch their visas in person Passport must be valid for at least six month and presented on submission of application Two recent colour passport-size photos Yellow fever vaccination card Letter of invitation and intent Standard Visa fees payable by bank transfer to: Government of South Sudan Special Permit Account Bank: Kenya Commercial Bank; Sarit Centre Branch A/C No. 402004247

N IO

• • • • •

Fees: • • • •

FO N IN RMAT IO

The Republic of South Sudan has missions in Kenya, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Zimbabwe, Nigeria, South Africa, Australia, Norway, Belgium, the UK, Germany, France, Turkey, Libya, China, India, Italy, Canada and the USA.

FLY

Any visitor going to South Sudan through Khartoum requires a valid visa. Visas are issued through the South Sudan Embassy.

HEALTH

Multiple entry: US$250 (six months)/US$400 (one year) Single entry for countries with common boarder with South Sudan: US$50 Single entry for other African countries: US$100 Single entry for European and US citizens: US$100

Vaccination requirements for international travellers

Processing period: Two working days

• No cholera vaccination certificates are required of travellers coming from all over the world.

TANZANIAN VISAS All foreigners from non-Commonwealth countries are required to have a valid visa unless their countries have agreements with Tanzania under which the visa requirement is waived.

Exemptions: Citizens of Commonwealth countries are not required to obtain visas unless they are citizens of the United Kingdom, Canada, Nigeria, India, Pakistan, South Africa, New Zealand or Australia.

Tanzanian visas are issued by the following:

• The office of the Director of Immigration Services, Dar es Salaam, and the office of the Principal Immigration Officer, Zanzibar.

• Entry points to the United Republic of Tanzania: principally Namanga, Tunduma, Sirari, Horohoro, Kigoma Port, Dar es Salaam International Airport, Kilimanjaro International Airport, Zanzibar Harbour and Zanzibar Airport.

• Any other gazetted entry point.

• From Tanzania High Commissions or embassies abroad. For more information on Tanzanian diplomatic missions visit: www.tanzania.go.tz/tanzaniaembassiesabroad.htm

• Only valid yellow fever vaccination certificates are required of all travellers over one year old, arriving from yellow fever infected countries mainly in central and West Africa, South and Central America South East Asia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh.

• Vaccination for international travellers are obtainable from all international air and sea ports, city and major municipal councils NB: Make sure you get your yellow fever shot in good time since the yellow fever certificate is valid for travel use 10 days after vaccination.

Africa’s low cost airline: www.fly540.com

45

FLEETINFORMATION

THE fly540

AIRCRAFT FLEET F

ly540 operates modern aircraft and is constantly updating and

modernising its fleet.

The company uses aircraft such

as the ATR 72-500, which burns only half as much fuel as some other aircraft and also emits less carbon into the atmosphere.

This underlines the fact that Fly540 is a ‘green airline’ that cares for the environment.

The crew and engineering team are professionally trained and certified to ICAO standards.

ATR 72-500

Cessna Caravan C208

Type: Twin-engine turboprop shorthaul regional airliner Number in service: Two Capacity per aircraft: 78 passengers

Type: Single turboprop engine, fixed-gear short-haul regional airliner Number in service: One Capacity per aircraft: 10 passengers

BOMBARDIER DASH 8 102 SERIES 

DC-9

Type: Twin-engined, medium-range, turboprop airliner Number in service: Three Capacity per aircraft: 37 passengers

Type: Twin-engine, single-aisle jet airliner Number in service: One Capacity per aircraft: 80 passengers

Fokker F27 Type: Turboprop cargo airliner Number in service: One Capacity per aircraft: 1,336 x 210 x 190 cm cargo hold

Canadair CL-600-2B19 Regional Jet  Type: Twin-engine regional jet Number in service: Three Capacity per aircraft: 50 passengers

Fokker F28 Type: Short range jet airliner Number in service: One Capacity per aircraft: 67 passengers

Africa’s low cost airline: www.fly540.com

47

Contacts

CONTACT INFORMATION FIVE FORTY AFRICA

HEAD OFFICE Riverside Green Suites, Palm Suite, Riverside Drive PO Box 10293-00100 Nairobi, Kenya

Tel: +254 (0)20 445 2391/5 Fax/Tel: +254 (0)20 445 2396 Sales: Tel: +254 (0)737 540 540 Email: info@fly540.com

WILSON AIRPORT

540 SAFARI CIRCUIT SALES Ground floor, Langata House

Tel: +254 (0)20 254 0206 Tel: +254 (0)729 540 540 Tel: +254 (0)735 540 540

Email: 540.safaris@fly540.com

ELDORET

540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS

Tel: +254 (0)53 203 3570/80

LAICO REGENCY

540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS Mezz. floor, Shopping Arcade

Tel: +254 (0)20 224 3211/3/4 Cell: +254 727 540 540; (0)737 540 540 Fax: +254 (0)20 224 3219

LAMU – NORTH COAST TRAVEL SERVICE Tel: +254 (0)42 213 0312 Tel: +254 (0)42 463 2054 Tel: +254 (0)725 942 444

Email: nctslamu@swiftmalindi.com Email: nctsmalindi@swiftmalindi.com

MOI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, MOMBASA Tel: +254 (0)41 343 4821 Tel: +254 (0)32 540 540; (0)722 555 730

ELDORET INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

MOMBASA

Tel: +254 (0)53 203 0814 Tel: +254 (0)53 206 3823 ext 658

Tel: +254 (0)41 231 9078/9 Mob: +254 (0)728 540 540; (0)710 540 540

540 Ticketing & Reservations Office

540 CALL CENTRE

ABC Place, off Waiyaki Way

Tel: +254 (0)20 445 3252/6 Cell: +254 (0)722 540 540; (0)733 540 540 Fax: +254 (0)20 445 3257

JOMO KENYATTA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

540 Ticketing & Reservations Office Unit 3 (Domestic Departures)

Tel: +254 (0)20 827 523 Tel: +254 20 827 366 Cell: +254 727 532 273

540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS OFFICE Ground Floor, Mombasa Trade Centre, Nkrumah Road

UKUNDA

540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS Barclays Centre, Diani Road

Tel: +254 (0)20 354 6532 Tel: +254 (0)726 453 246

UGANDA ENTEBBE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS OFFICE

Tel: +254 (0)20 827 521

Tel: +256 (0)314 540 540 Tel: +256 (0)315 540 540 Sales: Tel: +256 (0)713 540 540

KAKAMEGA

KAMPALA

Unit 1 (International Departures)

540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS Holden Mall - above Nakumatt

Tel: +254 (0)734 540 550 Tel: +254 (0)711 908 330

KITALE

540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS Terminal Building, Kitale Airstrip

Tel: +254 (0)770 639 429 Tel: +254 (0)724 457 374 Tel: +254 (0)735 540 547

540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS OFFICE Ground floor, Park Royal Shopping Mall, Buganda Road PO Box 22335, Kampala

Sales: Tel: +256 (0)717 540 540; (0)712 540 540

SOUTH SUDAN JUBA

540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS OFFICE

Tel: +211 959 540540; +211 999 540540

Email: Sales.juba@fly540.com

48

Issue 9

540 TICKETING & RESERVATIONS BELGIUM AVIAREPS AG

J.E. Mommaertslaan 16b (2nd floor), 1831 Diegem

RESERVATIONS Tel: +32 (0)2 712 04 93 Fax: +32 (0)2 725 83 92

Email: Res540.BRU@aviareps.com

SALES Tel: +32 (0)2 712 05 84 Fax: +32 (0)2 725 83 92

Email: Sales540.BRU@aviareps.co

GERMANY AVIAREPS AG

Kaiserstrasse 77 60329 Frankfurt am Main

RESERVATIONS Tel: +49 (0)69 770 673 076 Fax: +49 (0)69 770 673 028 Email: Res540.FRA@aviareps.com

SALES Tel: +49 (0) 69 770 673 077 Fax: +49 (0)69 770 673 235

Email: sales540.FRA@aviareps.com

ITALY AVIAREPS AG

Via Monte Rosa, 20 20149 Milan

RESERVATIONS Tel: +39 02 4345 8346 Fax: +39 02 4345 8336

Email: Res540.MIL@aviareps.com

SALES & MARKETING MANAGER Maria Rosa Cappelli

Mobile: +39 335 778 5936

Email: mcappelli@aviareps.com

NETHERLANDS AVIAREPS AG

Beechavenue 104 1119 PP Schiphol

RESERVATIONS Tel: +31 (0)20 654 79 29 Fax: +31 (0)20 623 01 51

Email: Res540.AMS@aviareps.com

SALES Tel: +31 (0)20 520 02 82 Fax: +31 (0)20 623 01 51

Email: Sales540.AMS@aviareps.com

RUSSIAN FEDERATION GSA AVIAREPS AG

Prospect Mira, 39 Bldg 2 129110 Moscow

RESERVATIONS Tel: +7 (495) 937 59 50 Fax: +7 (495) 937 5951

Email: Res540.MOW@aviareps.com

SALES Tel: +7 (495) 937 59 50 Fax: +7 (495) 937 5951

Email: Sales540.MOW@aviareps.com

SOUTH AFRICA AVIAREPS (PTY) Ltd

38 Wierda Road West Wierda Valley Sandton, Johannesburg

RESERVATIONS Tel: +27 (0) 11 722 0229 Fax: +27 (0) 11 783 8135

Email: Res540.JNB@aviareps.com

SALES Tel: +27 (0) 722 0229 / +27 74 177 1596

Fax: +27 (0) 783 8135 Email: Sales540.JNB@aviareps.com

SWITZERLAND AIRLINE & TOURISM CENTER GmbH

Badenerstr. 15, CH-8004 Zürich

RESERVATIONS & SALES Tel: +41 (0) 44 286 99 62 Fax: +41 (0) 44 286 99 63

Email: 540-Switzerland@aviareps.com

UNITED KINGDOM FLY540

c/o AviaCircle, 28-29 The Quadrant Business Centre, 135 Salisbury Road London, NW6 6RJ

RESERVATIONS Tel: 0870 774 2250 Fax: 0870 777 7172

Email: res540@aviacircle.com

SALES Tel: 0870 774 2250 Fax: 0870 774 2250

Email: Sales540@aviacircle.com