YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY August - September 2011
Khazana Restaurant & Catering
What’s good about Indian food?
VillageBeat
Five Minutes with...
Manisha Patel
Why The Village Market is the
world’s Greenest shopping mall
A Publication of The Village Market
VillageBeat
Contents 14
18
3
Jambo!
Everything’s coming up green…
4
Village news
6
New villager
Enjoying the sweet perfume of success
8
Five minutes with...
Manisha Patel
9
Well being
Self-exam aid can help avoid breast cancer
10
Profiler
A very constant gardener
12
Off the shelf
Book worm: a quick look at the latest bestsellers
The movies: a look at the latest releases
14
Savour
What’s good about Indian food?
16
Culture
Local design talent? It's in the bag
17
Virtuous village
Food aid helps The Village Market staff cope with cost of living
18
Feature
is published by
Why The Village Market is the world's greenest shopping mall
THE VILLAGE MARKET
23
Village diary
24
Still here
You, too, can be a melody maker
26
Escape
Cosy cottage in a setting of great charm
28
News in pictures
Village scene
30
A to Z of The Village Market
The Village Market at a glance
32
Essential contacts & information
PO Box 100-00621, The Village Market Tel: 712 2488/90 • Fax: 712 2477 Email marketing@villagemarket-kenya.com www.villagemarket-kenya.com designed by
Land & Marine Publications (Kenya) Ltd Suite A6, 1st Floor, Ojijo Plaza Plums Lane, off Ojijo Road, Parklands PO Box 2022, Village Market 00621, Nairobi Tel: 020 374 1934 • Email: publishing@landmarine.com www.landmarine.com 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.
©2011 The Village Market
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
1
WELCOME
Jambo! Everything’s coming up green…
T
his issue of the magazine is in praise of
In Virtuous Village is an inspiring story about how
the lush, green vegetation that makes
The Village Market management is cushioning its
up The Village Market. Read all about it
staff against rising food prices.
in our Feature. We’ve also added a new column, Still Here, Our Profiler section takes on the same green
highlighting some of our older outlets that you
theme, focusing on one of our oldest members of
may have forgotten about.
staff – Senior Gardener, John Chege. There’s something great for the ladies in our Well Spend 5 Minutes With Manisha Patel, of Sugar
Being column. The Liv Kit is certainly a ‘must have’
Candy, as she tells you what it takes to run a
for every woman who cares about her health.
lucrative candy store at The Village Market. I’ll leave you to it then. And in the Savour section we tell you what makes Indian food so good.
Warmest regards,
New Villager
We have a New Villager that you should definitely
Ann Gitari
smell. That’s right! Elaine by Balala is offering you
Press Liaison Officer
the best of genuine designer perfume.
ann@villagemarket-kenya.com
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
3
NEWS
VillageNews For up to date news and information join us online. Facebook:
Imperial Bank Opens Branch at The Village Market Imperial Ban has opened a new branch at The Village Market. The branch is conveniently located at the 1st Level of the complex next to Fashion Brands. Among the services available at Imperial Bank are credit services as well as forex transactions.
The big Mango sale It’s a sale like never before at Mango. Get affordable European fashion for the modern woman. Buy any single item for KES 400, any two items for KES 600 and any three items for KES 800.
4
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
Twitter:
THE VILLAGE MARKET
@VillageMarket
Bata opens larger store in The Village Market After two weeks of renovations, Bata has reopened its doors – bigger doors, for that matter, seeing that the new store is larger and more spacious. But it’s not just the size of the store that has got shoppers talking – it’s the huge choice of shoes. With such a wide variety for all ages and every occasion, there is certainly an ideal pair of shoes here for everyone.
Cinema halls reopen Following a change in management, the cinema halls at The Village Market have now reopened. Nu Media Cinemas opened in mid July, showing blockbusters such as ‘Pirates of the Caribbean 4’, ‘Jumping The Broom’ and the much acclaimed ‘Hangover Part II’. To celebrate the reopening, Nu Media Cinemas sold tickets at a special rate of KES 250 all weekend. For a list of screening times, go to our Facebook page, THE VILLAGE MARKET, or call Nu Media Cinemas on 0720 621111. See you at the movies!
Village Market staff get a chance to enhance their global careers The Village Market sponsored two of its management staff; Marketing Manager, Dominic Mbugua and Assistant Complex Manager, Betty Musyoki for this year’s International Council of Shopping Centre Training that was held in conjunction with the Middle East council of Shopping Centers in Dubai. The five-day programme was held from 5th to 9th June, 2011 at a five star hotel in Dubai - Al Murooj Rotana. It brought together international specialists in all aspects of retail and shopping centre management. Mall managers from Egypt, Kuwait, Dubai, the USA, Kenya, Nigeria and Canada were there to learn, network and discuss industry issues and analyse trends. The programme embraced a comprehensive and rigorous course taught by prominent industry experts from the USA, Europe and the Middle East. Participants had an opportunity to learn about management, marketing and leasing out of space. Those taking part received useful guidance on how to run a shopping centre more effectively and learned how the essential components of management, marketing and leasing come together. They also had a chance to explore the basic principles of merchandising and how to apply good economics and leasing strategies in order maximise income and productivity in the retail sector. Those taking part received a Certificate of Participation from the ICSC/MECSC John T. Riordan Global School for Professional Development. In addition, participants were given membership of the prestigious ICSC/MECSC organisation. This international recognition means they can now practise their industry skills globally and engage expert members of the ICSC on any issue relating to the retail industry and trends. As a trend-setting mall, The Village Market is keen to develop its management team and other members of staff with a view to furthering their careers. In so doing, it hopes to achieve its vision of being the shopping and lifestyle destination of choice in East Africa. The Village Market is not new to the ICSC. Due to its remarkable architectural design, The Village Market earned the coveted International Council of Shopping Centres’ Design Award in 2004.
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
5
per�ume o � success
Enjoying the sweet
Just last month, Mr Balala swung open the doors of his fourth store, Elaine.
6
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
NEW VILLAGER
I
t is unlikely for a man to be so interested in
“Then, once again, the time came for me to cast
perfumes, which makes Abdulaziz Balala a
my net back in the water,” says a pleased Mr
special man. His shop, Elaine, is the latest to
Balala. He was now targeting a niche market:
join The Village Market.
the well informed, discerning customer who knows what she wants when it comes to designer
For as long as he can remember, Mr Balala has had
perfume. There was no better place to serve this
a passion for flowers and gardening. He decided
customer than The Village Market.
to explore his interests by venturing into the perfume industry.
Just last month, Mr Balala swung open the doors of his fourth store, Elaine. The shop is strategically
He opened his first store in Mombasa 10 years
located just next to Nakumatt Supermarket on the
ago. As the years went by, his clientele grew and
first level of The Village Market.
so did his business. Clients holidaying at the coast from other parts of the country, especially Nairobi,
Like the other stores that Mr Balala owns, Elaine
loved his genuine merchandise. They urged him to
is already upholding international perfume
expand his business and open a shop in the city.
standards, offering high-end products such as Chanel, Givenchy, Gucci, Kenzo, Issey Miyake and
“At the time, the perfume business was run in
many more.
a shoddy manner,” Mr Balala recalls. “There were lots of grey market products sold out of a suitcase.”
New store Mr Balala was disappointed by this discovery. It didn’t please him to see designer perfumes watered down or losing the prestige they commanded the world over. In response to the endless demand from his loyal clients and a desire to sell authentic perfumes, Mr Balala opened a store in the central business
ELAINE
In just two years, his customer base grew. The word was out: there was as an authentic designer perfume dealer in town. It wasn’t long before Mr Balala
INFORMATION
district.
First Level, next to Nakumatt Supermarket Tel: +254 722 890470
opened a third store in the outskirts of the city.
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
7
FIVE MINuTES WITH
Five minutes with Manisha Patel Proprietor, Sugar Candy
Life can be very sweet – if you run the right kind of shop Village Beat: How long has it been
VB: What’s a normal day like
since you opened Sugar Candy?
for you?
Manisha Patel: It’s been 16 years now.
MP: I start my mornings really
We’ve been here since The Village Market
early with a two-hour jog which
opened in 1995.
gets me ready to start the day. I then get ready for work and
VB: What does Sugar Candy specialise
give thanks to God before
in?
setting off for work. Once I’m at the shop, I check on the
MP: We are well known for our fluffy
records and progress through
pink cotton candy. Our popcorn is also a
the week or the previous day.
favourite among our customers. I guess that, coupled with our wide selection of
"The Village Market promised to be a big attraction and I had the idea of having a candy shop that would be part of the magic"
top quality chocolates and candy, makes us what we are. VB: What prompted you to open Sugar Candy at The Village Market? MP: The Village Market promised to be
I then spend the rest of my day assisting my
MP: I have learned that it is important
customers to pick their choice of delight.
to always have a variety of products for my customers. I need to give them
a big attraction and I had the idea of having a candy shop that would be part
VB: What challenges do you face
something new so that they don’t have
of the magic – an enchanting candy
while managing you candy shop?
buy the same candy every year.
MP: For a candy shop, I can’t say there
VB: What future plans do you have
are that many challenges. I guess it’s
for Sugar Candy?
world where every heartfelt desire would be fulfilled.
always interesting to see a child walk in,
Level 1, Near Toyworld
Tel: +254 20 7122104
8
INFORMATION
SuGAR CANDy
stare at all the different varieties of candy
MP: Since my candy floss is a favourite
and be spoiled for choice. Some just
among my customers, I plan to introduce
want everything we’ve got!
different colours and flavours – something to entice my customers’ taste
VB: What lessons have you learned over the years?
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
buds.
WELL BEING
Self-exam aid can help avoid breast cancer
D
octors cannot emphasise
information that is passed and stores it.
If you discover a lump, puckering or
enough how important it is
This is known as conditioning. The more
discharge during the self-examination, it
for every woman to examine
information that is stored, the more we
is important to see a doctor right away.
her breasts at regular intervals. Even
are aware of what we feel.
the smallest lump could be a sign of
The Liv lit is available for purchase at
breast cancer. If not detected early,
Liv helps women to be more aware of
Elixir Health, where you can get more
breast cancer can be difficult to treat
what is normal for them. This increased
information about the product.
and also fatal.
awareness leads to early detection, which in turn can save lives.
Self-examinations may not be easy to perform, but they cannot be overlooked.
Many women have found breast lumps
This is not just about checking the
with the help of Liv – mostly normal
breasts for lumps; it is also about gaining
lumps. However, some women have
personal information about your breast
noticed unusual changes when using Liv,
tissue, so that you can be aware of any
and for some, this was the fi rst step to
changes.
their diagnosis.
What is Liv?
Younger women
Liv is a self-examination aid designed to
Women under the age of 40 are not
help women examine their breast tissue.
given a mammogram if they are at
It moulds to the skin and provides a
normal risk with no family history of
smooth surface for the fi ngers to glide
breast cancer. Younger women rely on
easily over the breast tissue.
self-awareness even more and therefore fi nd Liv a valuable health tool. However, breast self-examination with
Our sense of touch works because of
or without Liv is not a replacement
millions of touch sensors in our skin.
for a mammogram or a clinical breast
These are connected via nerves to
examination by your doctor. There
the brain, which then translates the
are three important components of a comprehensive breast screening programme: • Breast self-examination (around the
same date each month)
ELIXIR hEALTh
• Regular clinical breast examinations
by your doctor
• Mammograms.
INFORMATION
How it works
Level 2, Above Foodcourt Tel: +254 (0)20 712 0217 Email: elixirhealth@nbi.ispkenya.com
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
9
A very constant
gardener John Chege Mwangi, senior gardener
I
t’s rare to hear of a shopping mall
Chege, as he is popularly known among
He says it’s the ideal time to water and
looking to hire full-time gardeners.
his colleagues, is one of the longest
clean the gardens before the cleaning
But John Chege Mwangi had no
serving employees of The Village Market
crew begin their job.
room for questions. He just wanted a
management. As part of the gardening
job – and a good one at that. At the
team, he has seen The Village Market’s
time, he had been working for five
plants and fl owers grow into the lush
years as a messenger in a busy office.
green gardens they are today.
He was interested in becoming an
“We are the fi rst to begin work, then the cleaners, then the other management
accountant, but he couldn’t afford
While it may seem as if he has simple job,
staff,” he explains. “This routine has
the fees to go to college.
he differs with that assumption. “Plants
to be followed to ensure everything is
are very delicate,” he says. “You have to
in order before the shoppers begin to
So, when his father told him about
treat them like you would care for little
stream in from 9 am.”
gardening jobs being offered at The
children.” It seems like a good working system,
Village Market, he quickly applied. It
10
Efficiency
wasn’t long before he was confi rmed and
It’s easy to agree with him once he tells
because the last thing you want is to have
became part of the management team.
you how early he has to get up. Chege is
a hosepipe spraying you with water as you
That was 15 years ago.
usually at the complex as early as 6 am.
drink your coffee and read the paper.
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
PROFILER
But his job is not all about watering plants. As a senior gardener, he is also responsible for trimming, weeding and cleaning the fl ower beds.
Challenges With the right equipment, Chege’s delicate job is simplifi ed. But the weather can be harsh at times. “Dry seasons present a challenge because of the frequent water shortages,” explains Chege. “It rains less and there are also more pests.”
“Plants are very delicate, you have to treat them like you would care for little children.” Despite these challenges, Chege, together with the rest of the gardening team, have done a good job of keeping the complex green. There is never a neglected fl ower bed, a dry plant or a broken pot. Any plants or pots that may be run over by shoppers while trying to
but he says he has no regrets. He owes a
together and her encouragement keeps
negotiating the parking zone are quickly
lot to his father, who directed him to The
me going.”
replaced.
Village Market when he needed a job.
Away from work, Chege likes to spend
“I love what I do,” he says. “I wouldn’t
ordinary person. Very few people work
time with his wife and three sons. He also
be able to feed my family and educate
for the same company for over 15 years.
outsources his services to private clients
my children if not for what I do at The
So what does it take?
as a landscaping consultant.
Village Market.”
The senior gardener is certainly no
“Just work hard, be patient, humble and Chege may have missed his chance to
Chege says his wife is the key
respect your bosses,” Chege advises.
become the accountant he wanted to be;
motivation in his life. “We pray
“Your effort will be recognised.”
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
11
OFF THE SHELF
Book Worm
A quick look at the latest bestsellers
TOP 20 KENYA: Dream, luxury, inspiring, adventure
FROM OX CART TO EMAIL: The Kenya Story of Delia Craig
Author: Signature Selection
Author: Natasha Breed
Price: KES 3,500
Price: KES 2,160
Available at: Westlands Sundries
Available at: Westlands Sundries
This premier edition of the ‘Top 20 Kenya’ is a beautiful guide for dream hideaways, pampering and adventurous zones that are carefully selected to spoil your senses. Hand-picked for their uniqueness, quality and service, the ‘Top 20 Kenya’ is an exclusive collection of the fi nest in beach and bush for the discerning traveller who values serenity, individuality and a double touch of luxury. The emphasis for all of the properties is on quality not quantity. Set in vast, open spaces, they all have magnifi cent views, whether on private estates or secluded beaches. Personally recommended by ‘Top 20 Kenya’, a stay at any of these properties will leave you with unparalleled memories that will stay with you forever.
NAIROBI: An Exploration of a City by Photographers and Writers
WALL ART IN KENYA: The Kenya Story of Delia Craig
Author: Kwani
Author: Arvind Vohora
Price: KES 2,900
Price: KES 2,990
Available at: Westlands Sundries
Available at: Westlands Sundries
This book is an expansive lens, impatient with ‘development’ discourse. It celebrates Nairobi through lives rather than statistics, highlights city spaces not as repositories for international development agendas and experiment, but as sites of multiple stories and identities and ongoing temporalities. This book imposes itself against insecure private agendas posing as nationalistic attitudes and ‘visions’ and what they might want to hide. This is a book about the city’s food, dress, movement, death and birth, work, leisure, spirituality and even Nairobbery.
12
What is it about Africa that captures our imagination? Is it the clarity of the sky and the intensity of the colours, or the sight of all those animals scattered across the tree-speckled savanna that makes our heart beat quicker? There is a sense of adventure, a touch of the Wild West, of life lived at the edge. Natasha Breed draws together all these elements in her powerful portrait of Delia Craig, the hardy and resourceful matriarch of Lewa Downs. This is a story of hardship and joy, of love and tragedy. But, more than anything, it leaves you with a deep sense of longing for times past – and of hope, too. Hope that with the help of remarkable people like the Craigs, there may still be a chance to preserve a fragment of Africa’s wild places. – Jonathan Scott.
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
Commercial wall, urban or street art was popularised in the international art market by the work of artist Cheri Shamba (b 1956) from Kinshasa during the exhibition in Paris of Jean Pigozzi’s collection entitled ‘Magiciens da le Terre’. This art form has been widely collected by international curators and collectors in Congo, Uganda, Zambia and Nigeria but is less well known in Kenya. The photographs in this book are an important archive of this dying art form as most are untraceable 20 years on and some of their work is unsigned.
The Movies A look at the latest releases
THE CHANGE UP
30 MINUTES OR LESS
Starring: Jason Bateman, Ryan Reynolds, Olivia Wilde, Leslie Mann Directed by: David Dobkin Genre: Comedy Studio: universal Pictures Release date: August 2011
Starring: Jesse Eisenberg, Danny McBride, Aziz Ansari, Nick Swardson, Michael Pena Directed by: Ruben Fleischer Genre: Action, comedy Studio: Columbia Pictures (Sony) Release date: August 2011
Dave (Jason Bateman) and Mitch (Ryan Reynolds) grew up together. They used to be inseparable, but these days they are lucky if they cross paths every few months. Dave is a successful lawyer and happily married father of three. Mitch is a single sexual dynamo locked in a perpetual state of arrested adolescence. And while Mitch admires Dave for having a gorgeous wife (Leslie Mann), happy kids, and a high-paying job, Dave envies his unhitched pal’s freewheeling lifestyle and ability to bed any woman who shoots him a seductive glance. Then, one night, after having had a few too many, Mitch and Dave voice their mutual admiration, never once suspecting they might be about to fi nd out how the other half lives. But the following morning, upon waking up, the two lifelong pals discover they have somehow traded places.
Nick (Jesse Eisenberg) is a small town pizza delivery man whose mundane life collides with the big plans of two wannabe criminal masterminds (Danny McBride and Nick Swardson). The volatile duo kidnap Nick and force him to rob a bank. With mere hours to pull off the impossible task, Nick enlists the help of his ex-best friend, Chet (Aziz Ansari). As the clock ticks, the two must deal with the police, hired assassins, fl ame-throwers and their own tumultuous relationship.
CONTAGION
WARRIOR
Starring: Matt Damon, Laurence Fishburne, Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Winslet Directed by: Steven Soderbergh Genre: Thriller Studio: Warner Bros Release date: September 2011
Starring: Joel Edgerton, Tom hardy, Jennifer Morrison, Maximiliano hernandez, Erik ‘Bad’ Apple Directed by: Gavin O’Connor Genre: Action, drama Studio: Lionsgate Release date: September 2011
‘Contagion’ follows the rapid progress of a lethal airborne virus that kills within days. As the fast-moving epidemic grows, the worldwide medical community races to fi nd a cure and control the panic that spreads faster than the virus itself. At the same time, ordinary people struggle to survive in a society coming apart.
Haunted by a tragic past, Marine Tommy Conlon (Hardy) returns home for the fi rst time in 14 years to enlist the help of his father (Nick Nolte) to train for Sparta, the biggest winner-takes-all event in mixed martial arts history. A former wrestling prodigy, Tommy blazes a path toward the championship while his brother, Brendan (Edgerton), an exfi ghter turned teacher, returns to the ring in a desperate bid to save his family from fi nancial ruin.
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
13
What’s good about Indian food?
14
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
Savour
I
t won’t feature often on your favourite food
food and the right amount will keep your taste
channel and neither is it your first choice for
buds excited.
a take-out, but Indian cuisine is one of the
healthiest, tastiest meals in the world.
Perhaps the greatest advantage Indians have is their ability to blend spices and come up with
The typical Indian menu is as rich as Indian culture
tantalising mixtures. Take garam masala, for
– one that has been inspired by interacting with
instance. It is a powder made by blending five
various cultures over a 5,000 year period.
or more dried spices. The most common are cardamom, cinnamon and clove. To these, one
It is this interaction and discovery that has seen
can add bay leaf, coriander, fenugreek or mint,
the Indian community come up with hundreds of
forming a delectable sweet-and-sour taste. Sweet
succulent meals, each with its unique Indian name,
dishes are seasoned with cardamom, saffron,
recipe, flavour and aroma. The world certainly
nutmeg and essence of rose petal.
owes credit to the Indians for such culinary terms as tandoor, kebab, tikka, paneer, jeera, naan and many more.
‘Must try’ Indian dishes A glimpse at any Indian menu in restaurants
A healthy serving
around the world is likely to leave you spoilt for
Indian cuisine can be termed as largely vegetarian,
choose from, and that’s not including the desserts.
a fact brought on by religion more than health.
But for the first-timer, out to try something new,
Since the Vedic period and the onset of Buddhism,
there are always those ‘must try’ dishes.
choice. There are usually more than 100 meals to
Indian communities considered eating beef a taboo. Strong cultural ties and a strict adherence
Murgh makhani or butter chicken is boneless
to religion saw this practice carried forth from
chicken cooked in rich tomato, butter and creamy
generation to generation.
gravy and flavoured with freshly ground spices. It goes well with black lentils and a green salad. Naan
Unlike most communities around the world that
is yet another favourite, a suitable accompaniment
rely on beef for protein, the Indian community
for chicken, mutton and tandoor fish.
serves up a sumptuous menu of vegetables, rice, whole wheat flour, pulses, lentils, poultry, fish and
And leave it to the Indians to come up with
green, yellow or black grams.
vegetarian barbecue. The tandoori vegetable seekh consists of mixed vegetables marinated and
And it gets better. Most Indian foods are cooked
char-grilled in the tandoor. The recipe includes
in vegetable oil. Peanut oil is also used to prepare
potatoes, cauliflower, cottage cheese, capsicum,
some dishes; and when that is not available,
onion and tomato.
mustard oil is a ready substitute. Coconut oil is also used widely by communities living at the
For all these and other mouth-watering Indian
coast, while other communities use sesame,
delicacies place your order at:
sunflower or soybean oil. Butter-based ghee is
The spice of life Spices give Indian food its unique character. Chilli pepper is one of the most commonly used spices when making Indian food. Black mustard seed, cumin and turmeric are also common in Indian
INFORMATION
used less than before.
Khazana Restaurant & Catering Level 1, Food Court Tel: +254 712 848 770; 735 388 177; 727 329 937; (0)20 251 8981 Email: khanakhazanacat@yahoo.com
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
15
CULTURE
Local design talent?
It’s in the bag F
rom 21 to 24 July, The Village Market gave top designers of bags and other fashion accessories an opportunity to showcase the best of what the local
market has to offer. The occasion was The East Africa Designer Bags & Fashion Accessories Exhibition. Among the fashion designers who featured in the four-day event were Bizzy Lizzy, Adèle Dejak, Rift Valley Leather, Katchy Kollections, Monda African Arts, Sanabora Design House, African Lily, Jewels by Angeline, Maasaen, The Signature, Bombolulu, Viwawa Spot, Designer Basket and Mohazo. Ladies thronged the exhibition halls to buy the tasteful designs on display. Most accessories bore a recycling element as they were made from reused cement bags, bone, rock and old tyres. The event was sponsored by Africa Designers in Development (ADiD), a local organisation that not only encourages local design talent but also promotes sustainable development through design. - Millicent Juma
16
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
VIRTUOUS VILLAGE
Food aid helps Village Market staff cope with cost of living I
t has not been the best year for anyone
Nearly 90 members of staff are benefiting from
living in Kenya. In the face of inflation and
the programme. Each is being provided with
the rising cost of living, life seems to be
essential items such as maize flour, rice and
getting more and more unbearable.
cooking oil.
Apart from fuel, food prices have hit an all-time
So far, the management has supplied over 100
high, much to the dismay of many employees
bales of maize flour, 200 kg of rice and 400 litres
across the country.
of cooking oil.
This prompted The Village Market management
Budget
to introduce a food assistance programme for its lower cadre staff. They held a crisis meeting to see
Initially meant to run for two months, the food
how staff could best be helped through this harsh
assistance programme had to be extended after
economic period.
fuel and food prices continued to escalate.
“We resolved to take immediate action to
“The management had not budgeted for this
cushion our staff, who were suffocating under
programme at the beginning of the year,” said Ms
skyrocketing food prices,” said human resources
Oloo. “However, we intend to keep it going until
assistant manager Peris Oloo.
things stabilise.”
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
17
18
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
feature
Why The Village Market is the
world’s greenest shopping mall T
wo brothers sit down and decide to build a shopping mall. One is an architect, so coming
up with blueprints shouldn’t be difficult, right? Wrong. His brother, obviously crazy about plants and flowers, thinks the mall should have more vegetation than brick walls. The architect, who is more familiar with angles and straight lines, peers over his glasses at his brother, just to make sure he is serious about this ‘green’ idea.
“Ever seen a village with more bricks than trees?” With the thought finally hitting home, the brothers reach a compromise. The first rough sketch is shredded and a new one is conceived. It’s not just a sketch; it’s more like a painting. The straight lines and angles are there, but as a backdrop to a colourful display of flourishing vegetation. As many would like to say, the Village Market wasn’t sketched, it was painted.
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
19
FEATURE
For the 16 years that The Village Market
Lush vegetation runs along the complex
tourists flock to the mall, attracted by its
has been around, it has stood out for its
from the entrances to the parking lot,
renowned architectural ingenuity.
luscious vegetation. It is unlike any other
cutting across the prestigious Tribe Hotel
mall. Flora seems to peep out of every nook
and around the entire complex. All
and cranny. There are plants on the ground
230,000 sq ft of retail and office space
and plants along the walkways. Potted
seems to be covered entirely by plants and
It is no easy feat to care for over 2,000
plants, some big, others grand, have been
gardens, adding colour to what would
exotic plants and flowers. It takes a
put in place where there is too much brick.
have been just another grey building.
dedicated team with the right knowledge
‘Grasshoppers’
and plenty of commitment. One
Award-winning design
would think that The Village Market
pots attached to the walls. Smaller potted
To complete the picture, and living up to
company. Far from it. The mall has
plants hang from the roof, suspended in
its African theme, there are waterfalls,
invested in a fully fledged Gardening
There are flowers like lampshades, geraniums and marginatas, growing out of
management consults a landscaping
the air, catching the sunlight at just the
rivers and fish ponds. This effort to blend
Department, with well trained staff
right height. And where there are no plants
modernity and nature lends The Village
dedicated to keeping the mall green.
or beautiful flowers, there are trees –
Market a tasteful ambience for great
sometimes in the most unlikely of places.
shopping, fine dining and fun-filled
Popularly referred to as the
recreation.
‘grasshoppers’ by fellow staff in other departments, the gardeners make it their
At the Food Court there are palm trees, standing metres high above the ground.
This innovation has not gone unnoticed.
responsibility to ensure that no plant
Just a short distance from the palms
Owing to its remarkable architectural
is left to die. The 12-man army gets to
is a thriving bottle brush that grows
design, The Village Market has earned
work as early as 5 am and is on call until
relentlessly above the children’s play pen,
numerous accolades including the
sunset. They water and feed the plants,
forming a cool and protective shade – a
coveted International Council of
clean the gardens, replace broken pots,
green contrast to the modern parasols at
Shopping Centres’ Design Awards.
feed the fish and treat plants that display
the opposite end.
Each year, thousands of international
the faintest sign of sickness. As the mall grows, so do their gardening spaces. It’s another chance to introduce something new. With the help of gardening consultant Celia Hardy, they are trained to accommodate new developments in plant health and care.
Chemical free But it’s not just about planting flowers and caring for them. The Village Market adopts environmental friendly practices to keep its flora thriving. Albert Wandera, head of the Gardening Department, says the team use organic methods to fight plant disease and pests. “Organic options such as bone meal are much safer and healthier for the plants,” he says. In the long run, organic treatment also means that it is safe for the
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A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
It is unlike any other mall. Flora seems to peep out of every nook and cranny
‘grasshoppers’ to care for the plants and for shoppers to shop and dine, surrounded by the blossoming greenery. Children can reach for flower petals without worry.
Sense of mystery Besides creating a naturally cool atmosphere in the mall, the plants give The Village Market an air of mystery. As Linda, a regular shopper who lives nearby, says: “It’s like enjoying a brisk walk through the woods.” Rising gracefully in the leafy Gigiri suburbs, The Village Markets exudes a serene yet lively ambience. Its design sits well within the charming weather, fresh air, cool breeze and green milieu of Nairobi’s Diplomatic District, away from the bustle of the city.
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
21
Village Diary
August
Date: 1 August to 11 September 2011
From Your Heart to Their Plates Time: 10 am to 8 pm Venue: The Village Market
VILLAGE DIARY
Date: 8 to 11 August
Heart of Art Time: 10 am to 6 pm Venue: New Exhibition hall Heart of Art is an art auction that will be the culmination of The Villager Market’s on-going hunger relief campaign – From Your Heart to Their Plates. The mechanics will involve all our previous, current and new art exhibitors and collectors, as well as the tenants and the general public, coming together in an event that will see all donated pieces of art sold. Proceeds will then go to this hunger relief effort.
The Village Market Management has launched a campaign dubbed “From Your Heart To Their Plates” to assist in the ongoing countrywide effort to save starving Kenyans.
Date: 18 to 28 August
Through this campaign, the management hopes to mobilize resources from the community, neighbours, shoppers, tourists, tenants and staff in form of dry foodstuff or cash to buy the same.
Time: 10 am to 6 pm Venue: New Exhibition hall
Annual Eclectic Crafts Exhibition
• Part of the proceeds from our parking collection will go towards this effort.
This year’s Eclectic Crafts Exhibition will feature the best of artefacts and crafts from East and Central Africa. Items on display will include hand-woven rags, lampshades, wall hangings and picture frames. Works by Jimlee Arts, Shanga Shanga, Wukenii Creations, Ben Handa and Fanis Anne Nyangayi will be on display.
• Bonus Card holders can also forfeit their accrued reward points to support the cause. The management will translate the donated points to food upon client request.
September
• Village Market Management staff and Tribe Hotel staff have offered to skip some meals and also pledged to make financial donations, with the employer offering to match the staff’s total collection towards the effort.
Date: 1 to 13 September
In this regard:-
• Cash donation vouchers are also available at our Management Office for those who would prefer to make financial contributions. • Besides this, there is an art exhibition slated for September whose details will be out soon. The mechanics will involve all our previous, current and new art exhibitors and collectors, as well as the tenants and the general public, coming together in an event that will see all donated pieces of art sold. Proceeds will then go to this hunger relief effort. • The Village Market has set-up drop-off points outside Nakumatt and at the Foodcourt to be used for the famine relief effort. Kindly note that all the resources so mobilized will be handed over to the Kenya Red Cross Society and the wider Kenyans for Kenya campaign. In the spirit of togetherness, we call upon all our shoppers, visitors, tenants and staff to support this campaign through your much needed generous donations.
Recycled Products Exhibition Time: 10 am to 6 pm Venue: Old Exhibition halls and 3rd Level We’ll be going green at this time of the year, dedicating both our exhibition halls to the artistic recycling efforts of local artists. The Recycled Products Expo will feature items made from wood, paper, plastic, scrap metal, stone, glass, beads, bottle tops and much more.
Date: 14 to 26 September
Annual Desert Jewels Exhibition Time: 10 am to 6 pm Venue: New Exhibition hall Here is a chance to sample unique jewellery inspired by cultures from across Africa. Exhibitors will include Bizzy Lizzy, Zanji Art, Lukagwa African Art & Jewelry, Jewels by Angeline, Jewels from Niger (Alhassan Mohammed) and Zawadi Jewelry.
The Playground of Life Time: 10 am to 6 pm Venue: Old Exhibition hall Renowned Ugandan artist Peter Elungat is to hold an art exhibition at The Village Market entitled ‘The Playground of Life’. Elungat’s paintings are mostly of women.
INFORMATION
Date: 7 to 17 August
For more information about any of the events contact The Village Market Management: Tel: +254 (0)20 712 2488-90 Email: pr@villagemaket-kenya.com Facebook Page: The Village Market Twitter Handle: @VillageMarket
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23
P
ast the cinema halls, down the
a proven record and exacting standards,
fl exible teaching hours, makes it easy
flight of stairs on your way to
students at the school are assured of
to grasp course work. With a 15-year
the water park, if you’re keen
professional training.
track record, reliable connections to the
enough, you may hear the sound of
recording studio, Wynton House of Music
or the rhythmic beating of a drum.
Whether you are a serious-minded
musicians.
Should you follow any of these
musician hoping to break into the
sounds, you will be surprised to find
industry or a music lover out to have
something you wouldn’t find often in
some fun and learn something new,
malls across the world: a music school.
Wynton will meet your needs perfectly.
Wynton House of Music is an established
a piano, the strumming of a guitar
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local music industry and a professional
Why study at Wynton?
music. It could be the soft keys of
is the ideal launch pad for all budding
Proven track record
The school’s convenient location at
market leader in both classical and
Wynton House of Music is a premier
The Village Market makes it a safe and
popular music. The school has assimilated
music school that offers the highest
friendly environment in which to study
the curricula of the Associated Board
quality and the best value in music
and play. Personalised training with
of the Royal Schools of Music and
teaching. Thanks to its vast experience,
one-to-one tuition, all worked out in
the London College of Music as its
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
STILL HERE
Wynton House of Music is a premier music school that offers the highest quality and the best value in music teaching
fundamental course content. The school
Holiday programmes are also available at
careers either as performers or educators
then tailors this to the requirements of its
The Village Market.
in whatever instrument they play.
students.
Adult students
Wynton House of Music
students, the centre provides music
Adults who are not necessarily musicians
lessons in various schools including
but want to learn to play a certain
Peponi School, Rusinga, Oshwal
instrument are also welcome at Wynton.
Academy, St Christopher’s, School of the Nations, Rose of Sharon, Kilimani Junior
The school also caters for professional
Academy, Springdales and Kids Castle.
musicians looking to advance their music
INFORMATION
As well as teaching private walk-in
Level 1, Next to the Mini Golf course Tel: +254 20 712 0568/ 2091365 Email: wyntonhouseofmusic@gmail.com Website: www.wyntonmusic.com
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
25
Cosy cottage in a setting of
great charm
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A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
ESCAPE
Bush Boutique Creaky Cottage, Nanyuki
J
ust a two-hour drive from Nairobi, 13 km
For those who would rather not cook for
before Nanyuki town, is a turn-off marked
themselves, meals can be ordered from the
by a skeletal wooden fish that reads
restaurant. Arrangements for breakfast and
Trout Tree Restaurant. A little further into the
evening meals should be made in advance,
compound is a tranquil cottage, tucked away
though, as the Trout Tree Restaurant is open to the
in lush, green vegetation.
public only from 11 am to 4 pm.
Creaky Cottage is designed to fi t into the serene
Nestled within the lower end of the Tam Trout
river setting of the Tam Trout fi sh farm. The
farm on the western slopes of Mount Kenya,
cottage is located in a loop of the Burguret River,
Creaky Cottage provides a memorable getaway
which fl ows around three sides of the cottage.
venue for anyone who appreciates tranquil privacy
The trout ponds lie between the cottage and the
in a completely natural setting.
famous Trout Tree Restaurant, built on a huge sacred fi g tree some 200 metres from the cottage. Creaky Cottage is so named because it is built around a gigantic evergreen podo tree that towers over and shelters the house. On rare windy days, a slight movement of the tree makes a noticeable creaking sound.
Tranquil setting The house, sleeps up to six people, is ideal for singles, couples, families and large groups. Rooms are kept cosy with simple furnishings and soft lighting. The cottage veranda is equally pleasant, catching some sunlight amid the fl ourishing vegetation
hOLIDAy hOMES KENyA
has a snug fi replace, lending the cottage a warm, romantic feeling even on chilly nights. The kitchen is fully equipped with cutlery, crockery and modern amenities, making the cottage an
INFORMATION
that seems to hug the cottage. The living room
Village Market Booking Offi ce Level 3, Opposite Tamambo
Tel: +254 713 600 824; 733 824 608 & 020 234 8106 Email: bookings@holidayhomeskenya.com
ideal self-catering holiday home.
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NEWS IN PICTURES
3
Village Scene 1 Reema Doshi (right), marketing and PR manager of Kingsway Tyres, talks to a clinical officer from the National Blood Transfusion Services during the Kingsway Blood Drive at The Village Market.
2 Assistant complex manager Betty Musyoki welcomes Paresh Raikundalia to The Village Market on the opening of his new shop, Essential Communications Solutions Ltd.
3 Veronica Mbugua and Paul Njoroge, members of The Village Market staff, donate blood during the Kingsway Blood Drive.
4 D’s Boutique hold its annual sale at The Village Market 6
main entrance.
5 The Village Market’s managing director, Hamed Ehsani, and assistant complex manager, Betty Musyoki, congratulate Bata Kenya director Fred Ojiambo and managing director Nasir Rafiq on the reopening of the newly expanded Bata outlet.
6 The best of Adèle Dejak’s designs at the East Africa Designer Bags & Fashion Accessories Exhibition. Adèle Dejak is one of The Village Market’s tenants.
7 Samsung activation at The Village Market main entrance.
8 High Court judge Paul Kihara Kariuki admires a painting by renowned artist Geraldine Roberts (right) during her exhibition, ‘On Earth As It Is In Heaven’.
9
9 VISA activation at The Village Market Food Court.
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
29
The Village Market
Fashion & Accessories Adele Dejak Athens Bag Shop Athens Leather Shop Athens Shoes Athens Men’s Shop Bata Barton Mode City Walk Coco Chic D’s Boutique Fabric Gallery Fahari Bridal Boutique Fashion Brands Glamourize Handcraft Centre Identity Istanbul Lavent Fashions Jaishiv (Khazana) Jit Gems Kazuri 2000 Kikoy Made in Africa Mille Collines Moksh Nairobi Sports House One Way Pilotesa
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Sandstorm Slippers Glitter Sparkling Tinga Tinga Trevor Collection Woolworths
Food & Restaurants Amadeus Arlecchino Art Caffe Debonairs Pizza Dorman’s Coffee Shop Epic Restaurant – Tribe German Point Khazana Restaurant Made in Africa Osteria Gigiri Pomodoro Prime Cuts Revive Juice Bar Ro Ro Restaurant Sea World Slush Sofra Turkish Cuisine Steers Tamambo Tapas Taste of Africa Thai Food
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
Essentials All Times Arabian Corner Bell East Blue Lily Catermart Diplomatic Duty Free Essential Communication Solutions Ltd Kitengela Glass Lifestyle Motoring Moviebuster Nakumatt Nokia Shop Ocram Girap Personal System Power Innovations Ltd Prime Cuts Butchery Pure Flow Safaricom Customer Care Centre Shifaz Veterinary Clinic Sugar Candy Technology House Toy World Westlands Sundries Wishes Zucchni Greengrocers
A TO Z OF THE VILLAGE MARKET
at a Glance
Financial Services Barclays Bank Barclays ATM Cenhi Ltd CfC ATM Chase Bank Chase ATM Commercial Bank of Africa Coop ATM Diamond Trust Bank DTB ATM Eco Bank ATM Equity Bank ATM Imperial Bank Imperial Bank ATM KCB ATM Kenya Commercial Bank NIC ATM NIC Bank Pesa Point ATM Standard Chartered ATM Veritas Financial Services (VSF) Village Forex Bureu
Other Services AA Kenya Bobby Pal Photography DHL Kenya Valuers Estate Agents
Kingsway Tyre Centre KK Security Post Office Tintoria Drycleaners Village Photoshop Wynton House of Music
Home Décor, Furniture, Furnishings & Curios Artz Gallery Blue Rhino Curtain World Home Décor, 1001 Pots Kalabash Kashmir Arts Mini Maasai Market One Der Box Palacina Interiors Persian Carpets Power Innovations Past & Present Pinkopallino Sweet Dreams Tree House
Health & Beauty Aromatic Perfume Bar Belladonna Pharmacy Dance Studio
Dream Nails Elixir Health Grassroots Jaff’s Optical Nirvana Gym & Spa Salon Malibu Salon Natalie Spa Siam (Africa) Village Dental Clinic
Tours & Travel Services Bunson Travel Services Holiday Homes Kenya (Langata Link) Kenya Airways Sales & Ticketing Office Phoenix Safaris
Recreation & Entertainment Dream Zone (Foodcourt) Dream Zone (Rooftop) Hi Tide Waterpark Nu Media Cinemas Put-O-Mania (Minigolf) Village Express Superbowl Tin Man (Pool Hall)
A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011
31
CONTACT INFORMATION
Essential Contacts & information All Times News Stand
Dormans Coffee
Prime Cuts Butchery
Monday to Friday: 8am to 8pm Sunday: 10am to 8pm
Monday to Thursday: 8am to 6.30pm Friday & Saturday: 8.30am to 10pm Sundays & Public Holidays: 10pm to 7pm
Monday to Saturday: 9am to 6pm Sunday: 9am to 3pm
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 2068; 712 4004
Email: butchery@primecuts.co.ke
Tel: +254 (0)736 313 345; 720 695 114 Email: atmina@villagemarket-kenya.com
Tel: +254 (0)20 219 9300/ 351 3506
Email: dorman@village.co.ke
Barclays Bank Prestige Centre Monday to Saturday: 8.30am to 8.30pm Sunday: 10am to 4pm
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 2741; 712 0042; 712 1963 Email: prestige.village-market@barclays.com
Belladonna Pharmacy Monday to Saturday: 8.30pm to 8.30pm Sunday & Public Holidays: 10am to 7.30pm
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 2141; 735 122147 Email: admin@belladonnapharmacy.com
Bonus Card Monday to Saturday: 8.30am to 5.30pm Sunday: 10am to 5pm
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 2488/90 Email: bonuscard@villagemarket-kenya.com
Bunson Travel Monday to Friday: 8.30am to 5pm Sunday: 9.30am to 12noon
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 1235/ 712 4757/ 712 2080 Email: info@bunsontravel.co.ke
Commercial Bank of Africa (CBA) Monday to Friday: 9am to 4pm Saturday: 9am to 12noon Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 0263/346 0710 602 35/ 0737 800 170
Chase Bank Monday to Friday: 10am to 5pm Saturday: 10am to 2pm Sunday: 11am to 2pm
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 1581/419/548 (0)20 277 4224
DHL Monday to Friday: 9.30am to 6pm Saturday: 9.30am to 4.30pm
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 4172
Diamond Trust Bank Monday to Friday: 8am to 8pm Sundays & Public Holidays: 8am to 4pm
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 2270; 712 2271; 235 7982 0711 300 003; 0733 440 074
Kenya Airways Sales & Ticketing Office Monday to Friday: 9am to 6pm Saturdays: 9am to 3pm Sundays & Public Holidays: Closed
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 1072/241 (0)20 642 2790/9 Email: contact@kenya-airways.com
Kenya Commercial Bank Monday to Friday: 8.30am to 6.30pm Saturday: 8.30am to 4.00pm Sundays & Public Holidays: Closed
Tel: +254 (0)712 2012/003 (0)20 712 0483 Email: villagemarket@kcb.co.ke
Management & Security Office Monday to Saturday: 8.30am to 5pm Sundays & Public Holidays: 10am to 5.30pm
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 2488/90
Email: admin@villagemarket-kenya.com
Nakumatt Supermarket
Safaricom Customer Care Centre Monday to Friday: 9am to 6am Saturday: 9am to 5pm Sundays & Public Holidays: 10am to 4pm
Tel: +254 (0)722 002 372 Email: villagemarket@safaricom.co.ke
Shifaz Veterinary Clinic Monday to Friday: 9am to 6pm Saturday: 9am to 12noon Sunday: 10am to 11am Public Holidays: on appointment
Tel: +254 (0)712 4166/ 0722 511 761 0733 775 064
Superbowl Monday to Thursday: 9am to 11pm Friday to Sunday: 9am to 12midnight
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 3141 Email: recreation@villagemarket-kenya.com
The Village Market Taxi Service Available 24hrs daily
Tel: +254 (0)717 207 662
Monday to Sunday: 8.30am to 8pm
Village Dental Clinic
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 2507/8/9
Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm Saturday: 9am to 12.30pm
Email: mgrvillage@nakumatt.net
NIC Bank
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 2460/ 025 0733 836 5081; 0722 154 903
Monday to Friday: 9am to 4pm Saturday: 9am to 11.30pm Sundays & Public Holidays: closed
Email: villagedental@nbi.ispkenya.com
Tel: +254 (0)20 288 8791-4 0720 365 036/ 0720 364 993/ 0711 041 791-4
Monday to Saturday: 7am to 7pm Sunday: closed
Email: moveinfo@nic-bank.com
Email: tintoria@wananchi.com
Phoenix Safaris
Tribe Hotel
Monday to Friday: 7.30pm to 6pm Saturday: 8.30am to 5pm Sundays & Public Holidays: 11am to 5pm
Tel: +254 (0)20 720 0000
Tintoria Drycleaners Tel: +254 (0)20 712 2984
Reservations Desk Email: tribe@villagemarket-kenya.com
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 2254/ 712 1942 Email: info@phoenix-safaris.de
Village Market Forex Bureau
Post Office
Monday to Friday: 9.30am to 5.30pm Saturday: 10am to 5pm Sunday: 10am to 4pm
Monday to Friday: 9am to 1pm Saturday: 8.30am to 5pm Sundays & Public Holidays: 11am to 5pm
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 1830/ 0735 764 673
Email: info@dtbkenya.co.ke
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 2126; 712 0733 (0)20 712 2901/473
Zucchini Greengrocers Monday to Sunday: 9am to 7pm
Tel: +254 (0)20 712 0403
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A Publication of The Village Market // August - September 2011