Male : Issue 01

MONEY • ADVENTURE • LIFESTYLE • ENTERTAINMENT

ISSUE 01 2014 | KShs. 350

MARK WAHLBERG “This year’s Transformers will be the biggest yet!”

NAIROBI’S TOP BOUTIQUE HOTELS STAYCATIONS AT YOUR DOORSTEP

PLUS ROCK-HARD ABS IN 5 SIMPLE MOVES UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH SHARON MUNDIA

RIHANNA TALKS SEX, MUSIC AND BEING POP’S HOTTEST REBEL

SEX Girls are

kinkier than you thought!

MONEY

BUSINESS MOGULS ON FUNDING STRATEGIES

NEYMAR Started from the bottom now he’s here!

McCannJHB911947

THE NEW CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER - AS UNIQUE AS YOU ARE

Go on a power trip from the plains to the highlands with our new engine upgrades built for the explorer in you. Feel the dynamic 2.8L LTZ Duramax engine that churns out an impressive 500Nm of torque.

Which is perfectly complemented by the ultra-responsive gearbox upgrades. You’ll also get the most stylish ride possible in our new darker interior, all this while enjoying the hands-free functions of the MyLink infotainment system with a rearview camera. The open road beckons. Enjoy your journey. Book a test drive.

Associated Motors - Tel: 650560-70, Associated Motors - Mombasa - Tel: 041-2490504-6/2 493240/2 / 0722-746502, Associated Motors - Eldoret - Tel: 053-2063938/43 / 0720855862, Associated Motors - Meru - Tel: 064-30091, Kenya Coach Industries - Tel: 530681/555188/552653, Ryce East Africa Ltd - Nairobi - Tel: 250056-60/228186/9/5317869, Ryce East Africa Ltd - Mombasa - Tel: 041-2315556/7/2226365/2229737/8, 041-2229737/8, Pewin Motors Ltd - Tel: 0702489755, Thika Motor Dealers - Tel: 06722315/22854/22262/30078, Thika Motor Dealers - Machakos - Tel: 0722 142418/ 0726 747788, Central Farmers Garage - Kitale - Tel: 054-31335/30277, Central Farmers Garage - Nairobi - Tel: 651382/551828/650532/553324 / 3522435/6/7/8, Africa Commercial Motor Group - Nakuru - Tel: 0721 736 464 / 0736 928 928, Africa Commercial Motor Group - Kisumu - Tel: 0733 636 183, General Motors East Africa - 0703 013222

EDITORIAL International Correspondents Andy Tillett, Steven Price Brown and Gareth Roberts Staff writers Rachel Wambui, Natalie Kimani and Caroline Okello Features Coordinator Shreya R. Photographer Victor Peace Styling Natalie Kimani ADVERTISING Account Manager Media Sales Irene Njoroge Media Sales International Nancy Gatimu Business Development International Edgar Theodore ATLAS GROUP CEO Amit Radia Director - Publishing Amarjeet Radia Creative Director Tahir Iqbal CFO Thiagarajan Hariharan HR Manager Marichu Mosquera Published by ATLAS Media Communications FZLLC, Dubai MEDIA SALES AND LOCAL AGENT Atlas International Limited Mayfair Suites Parklands Road 4th Floor, Suite No 6 Nairobi, Kenya FOR GENERAL EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES: T: +254 (0) 707 521 103/04 E: team@malemag.co.ke For general sales enquiries: T: +254 (0) 707 521104 E: sales@malemag.co.ke The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for error or omission contained in the publication. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on any information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for readers’ particular circumstances. The ownerships of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or its contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the publishers permission in writing. An exemption is hereby granted for extracts used for the purpose of fair review.

PRINTED BY ATLAS MEDIA COMMUNICATIONS FZLLC, DUBAI

WELCOME Welcome to the very first issue of MALE. It's taken us over a year to finally bring this concept and content to fruition and its been worth it. What better time to launch a magazine than during the quarterfinals of the FIFA World Cup, when the fever and adrenaline on the pitch resonates through the homes and bars of the world? It is a time when men and women of all ages, nationalities and religions come together to support teams that they have no direct affiliation with, other than a shared passion for the game and the talent (and in some cases just the looks)! All the above aspects are perfectly encompassed in our cover star Neymar, one of the most recognised footballers in the world today.

WHAT IS MALE ALL ABOUT? It is about money, adventure, lifestyle and entertainment. To become the common denominator of masculine interests—to be all things to most men – that is the essence of this magazine.

The free spirited MALE in Kenya today deserves to be treated with respect, and offered a perspective that is entertaining yet provides for his aspirations. MALE goes beyond today’s clichéd magazine structure and confined literary landscape. Instead it provides local content of international quality, incorporating both light-hearted humour and indepth perspectives. This combination makes MALE unique in that it is a captivating read from beginning to end.

In our first issue we hear first hand from Rihanna, how the sex symbol perceives herself and what she is all about. We also get insight into Kenyan gospel artist Hey Z’s lifestyle and music inspirations. Additionally, in order to prepare for the approaching holidays, MALE provides select reviews on hidden, gem boutique hotels around Nairobi. The gorgeous Sharon Mundia speaks exclusively to MALE about what’s hot and what’s not in men’ fashion, an aspect of the Kenyan male that is becoming ever more important.

I hope you enjoy the first issue, and we welcome any comments you may have to add value. Finally, don't forget to enter our online competition and market survey to have a chance at claiming prize money up to KShs.20,000!

PUBLISHER AMIT RADIA 3

CONTE 24 Rihanna is all that – and then some!

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NTS01 ISSUE

THE GUIDE

6

CAR REVIEW Inside the 2014 Porsche Macan

10

GADGETS What you need to know about the Samsung S5

11

RESTAURANT REVIEW Bamboo presents fine dining from the East

12

SMELL OF SUCCESS Use your scent to communicate

14

NEW FRAGRANCES The latest from the world of colognes

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PRETTY BLOGGER One on one with Sharon Mundia

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FITNESS Get rock-hard abs with these simple moves

FEATURES

30

Neymar Jnr discusses family, fashion – and yes, the World Cup

38

Business experts tell you how to raise capital

40

What it takes to be as successful as Bidco Oil Refinery

42

Sample some of Nairobi’s best boutique hotels

46

Mark Wahlberg on why Transformers is 2014’s movie of the year

50

A chat with gospel artiste Hey’Z

54

POLYGAMY A cost-benefit analysis of multiple wives in one marriage

60

FASHION Bring the Prohibition to your closet

65

OBJECT OF DESIRE Undoubtedly OMEGA’s Dark Side Of The Moon watch

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GUIDE GUIDE

MONEY • TV • GIRLS • TECH • CARS • STYLE • GROOMING • FOOD • MUSIC • FILM • TRAVEL • NIGHTLIFE

Porsche Macan S THE PRICE TAG FOR THE 2014 MACAN MAY RAISE A FEW EYEBROWS, BUT NOT AS MUCH AS ITS FEROCIOUS POWER. SAY HELLO TO THE WORLD’S FASTEST SUV 6

GUIDE

WORDS BY GARETH ROBERTS

I

t’s hard to believe now, but there was a time when luxury SUV’s were as rare as fuel-efficient 4x4’s. For decades, Range Rover was the marque that took you from hillside to hacienda in elevated, iconic style, reassuringly expensive and unreliable in equal measure.

In the years since, a lot of unleaded petrol has flown under the bridge and virtually every manufacturer worth its salt has produced its own vision of that most desirable symbol of affluence and aspiration, the luxury SUV.

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GUIDE

THE PORSCHE MACAN S MAY LOOK LIKE A STUNTDOUBLE FOR THE CAYENNE AND PLAYMATE FOR THE AUDI Q5 AND BMW X3, BUT THE REALITY IS THAT IT’S PUNCHING IN A CLASS OF ITS OWN The apex of this lucrative market was thought to have been reached when Bentley, that ever-so-British yet German owned brand announced the birth of its own SUV offspring. For others, it was too much too late and the market was already shifting; why have a luxury SUV when you can have a luxury sports SUV? Why can’t you have all the guts and the glory that a sports car delivers alongside something that can safely maneuver golf clubs and kids from A to B with the occasional off-road excursion to Z? The Porsche Macan S may look like a stunt-double for the Cayenne and playmate for the Audi Q5 and BMW X3, but the reality is that it’s punching in a class of its

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own. It may sit on an aluminium Audi base, but everything upwards is pedigree Porsche.

The name Macan, so the Porsche people tell us, is derived from the Indonesian word for ‘tiger’ (by which we hope they mean tenacious and agile and not endangered).

Two models currently occupy the Macan stable: The Macan S is equipped with a 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine delivering 340 bhp, and also features an active all-wheel drive with an electronically controlled, mapcontrolled multi-plate clutch. This all-wheel drive is fitted on all Macan models. The S model reaches a top speed of 254kph, and its fuel consumption can see it suck up to around 9.0 and 8.7 litres/100 km.

GUIDE SLEEK DESIGN

It may look like a low-slung Cayenne that's spent a month in the gym but the Macan's styling plays homage to the entire Porsche stable both inside and out and acts as a constant reminder of the quality of build and it's own place in the Porsche pantheon

SPECS

PORSCHE MACAN S

If you absolutely must be the fastest thing on the road – and let’s face it, you wouldn’t be shopping for a Porsche if you didn’t want to be – the Macan Turbo is set to be the most powerful SUV out there. The 3.6-litre V6 biturbo engine, which is being used in a Porsche model for the very first time, will deliver you a volcanic 400 bhp and catapults the vehicle from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds.

With the Sport Chrono package fitted, this speed can be reached in just 4.6 seconds.

Although the top speed is a blistering 266 km/h, sadly the Turbo was unavailable for test-driving at the time this magazine went to press so we can only imagine the eyewatering joy that these numbers evoke.

Like all Porsche interior styling the Macan does not disappoint; the tooled leather and glittering array of technology including the all-important multi-function sports steering wheel come standard. The steering wheel design is completely new and based on the 918 Spyder. In fact the car’s overall aesthetic is testament to Porsche heritage; the haunched wheel arches and sloping roofline offer a respectful nod towards the 911.

The cockpit features all of the characteristics associated with Porsche sports cars. Additional multi-function buttons fitted as standard for the telephone, radio and on-board computer, together with the ergonomically positioned shift paddles, ensure that drivers' hands are free to stay on

the steering wheel and their concentration remains keeping this beast on the road.

The curious anomaly associated with luxury SUV’s it the off-road option. Would you want to take something so utterly fabulous looking, not to mention expensive, down a dirt track at speed? Well, the overriding answer would have to be absolutely not.

That said, the off-road mode comes as standard in the Macan and it is activated by pressing a button in the centre console at a speed of between 0 and 80 km/h. This function switches all the relevant systems to a traction-oriented off-road programme: For example, the shift revolutions and speeds are geared towards a greater level of traction, the clutch is pre-tensioned to a greater degree in order to provide the front axle with the appropriate drive torque more rapidly, and the standard torque split between the front and rear axle as well as the accelerator pedal response are adapted to off-road conditions.

What's more, the ground clearance can be increased by 40 millimetres above its normal level thanks to the optional air suspension chassis, which gives a maximum ground clearance of 230 millimetres.

As great as this sounds (and you can imagine the fun to be had) there is no getting away from the fact that this is ultimately a luxury sports car and deserves all the respect that this inculcates. It may be time to say goodbye to the utility aspect of this, the most-lovely of all Sports Utility Vehicles.

PRICE ...............Ksh6,350,000 ENGINE....................3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo POWER .........................355bhp TRANSMISSION .Seven-speed PDK, four-wheel drive 0-62MPH ............. 5.2 seconds (with Sport Chrono package)

TOP SPEED ...................258kph ECONOMY ........../CO2: 52 mph /204g/km EQUIPMENT .....18-inch alloys, DAB radio, powered tailgate, parking sensors, multifunction steering wheel ON SALE..............................Now

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GUIDE GADGET REVIEW

Samsung Galaxy S5 What new features is Samsung bringing to the table with its latest smartphone offering?

T

he Samsung S5, one of the most anticipated phones of the year, has received mixed reviews. It sits bigger that its predecessor, the S4, with 142 x 72.5 x 8.1 mm dimensions and 145g in weight, but it maintains the same design aesthetic.

The S5’s selling points include a PayPal certified fingerprint sensor, a heart monitor and an IP67 certified dust and water resistance feature (the Sony Xperia Z2 has a liquid ingress rating of IP58). The ingress protection feature only works if the USB portal flap is shut and the back case firmly pressed in place. Sensors include the Accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer and gesture, but the thermometer is noticeably missing.

The S5 is mostly plastic, apart from the inner mid-frame lining, which makes for a more durable phone. The dimpled case is grip-friendly. Other specs include a 2 MP front-facing camera, 16 MP back camera, ambient light, proximity and hand motion sensors, 5.1-inch 1080p Super AMOLED screen and a 2.5GHz quad-core Snapdragon 801 CPU, 1.9GHz processor, LED flash and the USB 3.0 charging port and Quick charge 2.0.

The S5 runs the Android OS v4.4.2 (KitKat) operating system and Touchwiz interface, with a screen density of 480DPI and 2 GB RAM, and storage of 16 GB. The phone’s 5.1 inches slightly reduces the pixels density – 432 pixels as compared to the S4’s 441 pixels per inch. The response time has improved from the S3 but it doesn’t measure up to the HTC One M8. Gamers will be pleased with the smooth game play, as the phone doesn’t heat up quickly. You’ll however be disappointed by the internal speaker; although it can handle its own top volume significantly, the sound is tiny and bass-free.

Battery life is the bane of all smartphones, and the 2800 mAh battery should comfortably give you 11 hours with minimum use of your S5. However, extensive use can get you three to five hours. You can switch on ultra-power saving mode, which will only allow the use of six applications at a go.

When it comes to pictures, the camera interface’s fast focusing lens and monitor setting is more organised than its predecessor. The sHDR creates more definition in the pictures, improved exposure and colour rendering, while the S5’s digital stabilisation is much better than the HTC One M8. HDR and image stabilisation create a

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CON'S

• a design that few will find beautiful • UI can still be confusing • not the best camera indoors and in low light

SAMSUNG GALAXY S5 TECH SPECS OPERATING SYSTEM Android 4.4.2 PROCESSOR Quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 @ 2.5GHz RAM 2GB SCREEN 5.1in Super AMOLED with 1920x1080 resolution (432ppi) CAMERA 16MP rear (UHD @30fps), 2MP front (1080p) STORAGE 16/32GB (microSD expandable by up to 128GB) CONNECTIVITY Wi-Fi, 3G/4G, USB 3.0, NFC, Bluetooth 4.0 BATTERY 2800mAh DIMENSIONS/WEIGHT 142x72.5x8.1mm/145g

PRO'S

• plenty of power • sharp, vivid screen • detailed snapper • tons of features • waterproof

more realistic representation of life. Taken some pictures you need to vault? You can go into private view mode with the S5; this view is password, PIN or finger scan protected.

The heart monitor is a major disappointment.

The erratic readings vary greatly even when in rest position. Secondly, while the download booster works to download files bigger than 30MB on a slow connection, it only works well with Google Play Store and YouTube.

The S5 is a sassy consumer device. It may be below expectations but it does have a lot of decent features that deliver.

PRICE: KShs.60,000-75,000

GUIDE

NTH

F THE MO RESTAURANT O

BAR AMMO FANTASTIC FACTS TO IMPRESS THE LADS WITH OVER A DRINK

«««««

BAMBOO RESTAURANT AT THE ZEN GARDEN

What colour is water?

Slightly blue but the colour only becomes visible at depths of at least 10 feet (the sea does NOT reflect the sky, as often thought).

Nested in the leafy Spring Valley suburb, the Bamboo Restaurant at the Zen Garden restaurant is considered one of the best oriental establishments in town Bamboo was declared the best in formal dining at the 2013 Taste Excellence Awards, and executive chef Den Signey was a finalist at the Heineken Chef of the Year competition in 2013, making it a good choice for lovers of great oriental food.

Chef Den's menu revolves around Japanese and Thai items with a touch of healthy Chinese elements tweaked to her own signature style. Sampling the five course recipes she whipped up for MALE, one is hit by the array of notes that seamlessly blend into each other.

Everything has a kick, yet the sweet, sour, salty, hot, fishy, green, flat and rich flavours are consistent through each course and are not conflicting.

The papaya salad is fresh, and unbelievably ‘bitey’ but light. The Japanese seafood is crunchy, filling but not heavy. It’s a good follow up to the starter, and so is the Kamikaze – an exquisite combination of rice, seaweed, herbs and tuna. The veggie crunch in the Udoni noodles is a good component.

The noodles contain one very exclusive ingredient – Shitaki mushrooms – which cost about Ksh4, 000 a kilo. The crab comes in its shell, making it the perfect ‘long meal’. The seasoning for it has a delightful kick, rich but not forceful. My colleague says that the seafood tastes as if it has just been caught, like something you’d eat off the coast of Zanzibar. Chef Den remarks that she does not keep any of her seafood in the kitchen longer than a week.

The dessert comes as a sampler of three.

You’ll want to start with the smooth, rich, dark chocolate mousse, go to the vanilla

and then to the panna cotta to clean the palette – then start again. All in all, these flavours are exquisite, just for the fact that they do not try too much. This is a meal to experience, to savour without a rush.

Bamboo gets an A for ambience, with an easy transformation from business meets and long afternoon lunches to intimate and social evenings. While Chef Den explains that she is still growing the menu, she does add that there is something for everyone.

Their ingredients have no MSG while about 70 per cent of the ingredients are imported. The waiters, ever so friendly, are impressively equipped with tips to help you through the vast signature Bamboo choices.

How many cigarettes are smoked worldwide every day? About 15billion Which animal has the most teeth? Snails – they have 15,000 to 50,000 Which country banned Donald Duck? Finland because he doesn't wear trousers and it was considered too risqué.

Which other animal has sex for pleasure? Dolphins

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GUIDE

The nose has it Scent is just as important as appearance.

With smell being a highly dominant sense, it can supersede the other four senses. What does your cologne say about you?

WOODY COLOGNES

AROMATIC COLOGNES

This scent belongs to a man of rich tastes. Characterised by spicy, musky and fruity scents, this family of colognes accentuates the wearer’s sophisticated sense of style and confidence. It also means that this man is reflective and can be a romantic as well.

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FRESH COLOGNES

Green, fruit, citrus and water scent notes belong in this fragrance category. Men who were these scents are efficient, leadership material and organised, making them very goal-oriented. They are also known to make great sportsmen. However these scents are just modest enough to be appropriate for any occasion, and the man who wears them come across as uncomplicated and easy going.

These scents are firm in their existence yet manage to be unobtrusively enduring through their warm and natural base notes of earth and wood. If being a ‘man’s man’ is important to you, this family of scents is for you. With notes of musk, sandalwood, black pepper, spice and patchouli, these scents portray a man who is not only a strong leader, but has the ability to listen and nurture those around him. In fact, Creston Insight and Market Research Agency conducted a study that revealed that this type of scent creates the perception that the wearer is highly successful. Reserved and refined, this man comes across as timeless and classic.

GUIDE

SMELL SWEET FRANGRANCES FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Just as your wardrobe changes from the boardroom to nights out on the town, so should your scent. To do otherwise would be to send the wrong message. If you are unsure what fragrance to wear for what occasion, look at the packaging. Bright packaging that reminds you of sunshine is just that – daytime wear. If it exclaims ‘sex appeal’, save that for night.

FOR WORK

Grey Vetiver by Tom Ford

Like the name suggests, the dominant scent here is vetiver, accompanied by top notes of shiny citrus, spices as middle notes and woody base notes. It may have longevity but this scent is not overpowering. This clean, fresh scent may be ideal for the office place, but its smoky essence ensures it’s still a hit with the fairer sex.

FOR NIGHTS OUT VersaceOudNoir There is a significant departure in style from Versace’s earlier scent, Eros. Oud Noir’s packaging is understated, with a small golden Medusa logo on a smoky, sharp-cornered glass bottle. Simply put, it looks like Versace is manning up. The scent is an oriental woody fragrance, which features leatherwood, earthy patchouli, spices, agarwood (oud) and woody notes. This winning composition creates a segmented aroma that opens with the spices, building up to the leather core.

FOR DATES

Luna Rossa Extreme by Prada Launched in 2013, this spicy oriental fragrance for men features notes of amber, bergamot, labdanum, vanilla, black pepper, juniper berries and lavender. The lavender may raise some eyebrows, but it helps create a warmer, sexier aromatic fragrance.

The nose behind this spicier, darker version of the original Luna Rossa for men is Daniela (Roche) Andrier. The scent lasts a maximum of eight hours – enough time to get her attention.

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GUIDE

Sizzling super stars!

These women are every man’s dream – sporty, fit, pretty and professional, and celebrated in their competition categories

1

Serena Williams, TENNIS STAR

Of the two famous tennis-playing siblings, Serena and Venus Williams, Serena has always been deemed the hotter sister.

Ranked no. 5 of all time amongst female tennis players, what makes her stand out is her amazing ability to make a totally ripped, muscle-bound physique look feminine and graceful.

The Serena Williams Foundation has also opened two secondary schools here in Kenya, making her practically a local girl.

STOP IT

We know what you're looking at... It is a beautiful necklace. Ahem!

Erika Cristiano dos Santos, BRAZILIAN SOCCER STAR

Like Beyonce, Rihanna and Madonna, Érika Cristiano dos Santos has joined the ranks of those stars referred to by their first name only. Erika is the current central defender for both Brazilian club Santos and the national team of Brazil. Has the famous blue and yellow ever looked this good?

Probably not. In a recent international against the US national team, Erika faked a back injury, receiving much criticism. Poor Erika. Now, where’s that massage oil?

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2

GUIDE

WORDS BY STEVEN PRICE BROWN

TOUGH COOKIE

Maya was overwhelmed by an 80ft wave last October at Nazaré, Portugal, that broke her leg and held her underwater so long she had to be dragged unconscious out of the water.

3 The Kenya national volleyball team Tall, toned and graceful… and there’s 11 of them! Kenya’s national volleyball team was recently crowned the winner of the Africa Nations Cup, meaning they are included in this year’s World Grand Prix. Volleyball as a spectator sport has grown in the last decade – and with our girls winning in glamorous style, it’s no wonder.

ON-TWO

We couldn't fit all of the ladies on here but meet Brackcedes Khadambi & Janet Wanja

4 Maya Gabeira, PROFESSIONAL SURFER Any job that consists of looking hot all day on a beach is fine by us. Brazilian professional surfer Maya takes this already-perfect image further: In 2009 she broke the women’s world surfing record by riding a 14-metre wave. So she’s a world record breaker, and hot, and spends her working time wearing a bikini. What more could a man ask for?

GUIDE

WORDS BY CAROLINE OKELLO

blogger THE BEAUTIFUL

We get up-close and candid with fashion blogger Sharon Mundia

“I FEEL THE PRESSURE TO LOOK A CERTAIN WAY. I HAVE NO QUALMS ABOUT LEAVING THE HOUSE WITHOUT A SINGLE BIT OF MAKE-UP ON”

WHO IS ESS?

Sharon Mundia is a 25year old Kenyan fashion blogger

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What piece of clothing should every man own? We are seeking fashion blogger Sharon Mundia’s opinion.

“That’s a hard one, although I love a good pair of chinos on a man,” says 25-year-old Sharon, whose fashion blog, This Is Ess, is one of the most popular and influential blogs in its category in Kenya.

Her blog came into being about two years ago when she started writing with no particular direction. It took on a life of its own and progressed into a personal style blog, amassing popularity. “I still get excited whenever a reader recognises me and says hi. It’s awesome to … get great support,” she says. “I don’t let it get to my head though. I don’t think my family and friends would let me even if I wanted to,” she laughs. Aha. Now we see the secret to her approachability.

As a fashion blogger, people are always scrutinising her looks. But over the years, she has come to embrace her personal style. Does she feel any

pressure to conform to some beauty ideal? “Not even for a second. I love playing with make-up, but I have no qualms about leaving the house without a single bit of make-up on.”

Sharon clams up when asked about her love life, but speaks without reservation about the impact fashion has made in her life; in order for her to really know her personal style, she had to get to know herself first. “The discovery has really helped boost my confidence.”

There are occasions when she doesn’t feel confident. “I try to be comfortable in what I’m wearing before I leave the house. But there are times when I’ve had to dash to the supermarket straight from my bed and I’ve been a little embarrassed about how I look. Ha, let me tell you something, that is a scary, scary picture.”

Sharon just started going to the gym to make sure everything is “toned and in place”. “Over time I have realised that

WIN 20,000 KShs.

Simply log on to www.malemag.co.ke and take part in our online survey and competition, to be in with a chance to win

GET THE LOOK

SEEING RED

Slim-fit white shirt with black stripe detail, Truworths Man, Ksh6,900; Red Uzzi jacket, Truworths Man, Ksh11,800; Red Uzzi trousers, Truworths Man, Ksh6,100; Black leather belt, Truworths Man, Ksh2,100;Black leather Bianco Nero shoes, Bianco Nero, Ksh12,500

It’s hot this winter… in your closet, at least. From cherry to fiery, red is the colour to wear in 2014.

Here's how to infuse it into your wardrobe

Red is hot this year thanks to Dolce & Gabbana, Burberry, Moschino and Louis Vuitton.

Embrace the look and make this colour your base for a colourblocked look. There are many shades to choose from, from fiery red to metallic cherry, so find the shade that works for you. Throw in a neutral colour to bring some ‘macho’ to the look and you’re good to go.

STOCK LIST BIANCO NERO Ground floor, The Junction, Nairobi.

0725 657 760, 0721 505 125. www. facebook.com/pages/Bianco-Nero/ TRUWORTHS MAN Ground floor,The Junction, Nairobi.

0719 615 186; www.deacons.co.ke

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PHOTOGRAPHER VICTOR PEACE MODEL GREAT TOLUWASE from Strut It Afrika Ltd STYLIST NATALIE KIMANI MAKEUP CATHY NDERITU LOCATION SIERRA BRASSERIE LOUNGE

GUIDE

WORDS BY STEVEN PRICE BROWN

LETS TALK ABOUT SEX! What do women really think about the things that we would love to do to them in bed if they gave us half a chance?

Threesomes

We all love sex. We think about it every day, in some cases, every minute.

However, how guys and girls perceive ‘pleasureable sex’ is different. Rather than make assumptions, Male asked a few ladies some questions about scenarios that we assume they would never participate in, and then ran the answers past a female ‘sexpert’.

Here’s one surprising deduction from these talks: Girls are a lot kinkier than we think!

THE WOMEN

THE EXPERT

‘Girl A’, 27, single, Kenyan “I’ve never had a threesome but I’m curious. But I would only do a female-female-male threesome, not with two guys. I think women are definitely sexier than men and it’s not surprising that we would find each other attractive.”

“Society still has the backward opinion that threesomes are taboo or that the women involved are predominantly lesbians. Both of these are myths. As along as all parties involved are fully aware and (it is) consensual, a third party can be a rewarding way of livening up sex.”

Every girl who participated in this survey had either had, or wanted some girl-on-girl action.

‘Girl B’, 31, single, English “I’ve tried it twice. It was incredible the first time, the most amazing experience I’ve ever had.

Surprisingly, the second time it just hurt.”

“The anus is not designed to receive the penis. However there are millions of pleasure receptors located in that area that some people may find enjoy having stimulated. Sex is about experimenting; try, if it fails move on. If you both like it, great.”

If you want to try going under, ease her into it and use lots of lubrication. If she protests at any point, pull back and be more gentle.

‘Girl C, 31, single, Kenyan “I never used to like giving head, but somehow as I grew older, I had a shift. I love it. It makes me feel in control. I love looking up and seeing the lust in his eyes.”

“The taste of semen is affected by your diet. For example, smoking and drinking gives it an acrid taste.

Other than that, the only other crime a man would commit here is not returning the favour.

Keep it clean down there. And give your girl lots of feedback on what you enjoy, and positive reinforcement when she gets it right.

All the girls “Yes, we love it! But men need to listen to what we want and how we want it without feeling criticised.”

“A much higher percentage of women will reach orgasm through clitoral stimulation with the tongue than through penetration.”

It’s simple; get down there and get to work, fellas!

Anal sex

OUR THOUGHTS

Fellatio

Cunnilingus 21

GUIDE

WORDS BY STEVEN PRICE BROWN

ROCKHARD ABS All-male singing group Sauti Sol recently caused Kenyan ladies a universal attack of the thirst when they unveiled their chiselled abs after months of working out.

Here’s how you can get yours

22

GUIDE

1 2

Bicycles

Reverse crunch

Lie down and bring your fingers to your temples. Crunch up to bring your right elbow to your left knee while extending you right leg. Then twist your torso to the other side to bring your left elbow to your right knee.

Keep your head and shoulders on the floor and your arms by your sides, thighs vertical and knees at 90 degrees.

Then contract your abs and curl your knees towards your chest, keeping your knees at 90 degrees. Pause at the top then lower.

Russian twist Lie on your back, arms out to your sides and legs straight up in the air. Twist your body to one side keeping legs straight and shoulders on floor, then the other side.

3 Plank

4

Lie face down. Keep feet shoulder width apart and body straight. Place your elbows and arms on the ground and raise yourself, keeping body straight. Keep that position as long as you can hold without sagging.

5 Jack knife Start with your arms behind your head, slightly off the floor, feet together also off the floor. Contract abs, bring your arms and legs up simultaneously to touch at the top.

Slowly lower and repeat.

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R THE BOMB SHELL WORDS BY

ANDY TILLETT

SHE’S TOO SEXY FOR INSTAGRAM AND TOO HOT FOR ANY MAN TO HANDLE. WHAT’S THE WORLD LIKE FROM RIHANNA’S POINT OF VIEW?

LIFESTYLE

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S There’s no disputing Rihanna is the sexiest pop star on the planet, and you’re going to be seeing a lot more of her over the next two months as she makes her big comeback.

The straight-talking Bajan babe is currently putting the finishing touches to her eighth studio album, working with producers Stargate – who have written songs for everyone from Britney Spears to Katy Perry – and songwriter Emeli Sandé among others.

Next month she will co-headline The Monster Tour with Eminem, ensuring the original Good Girl Gone Bad – whose hits include S+M and Pour It Up – is back to reclaim the airwaves.

Not that she ever really left them, thanks to her featuring on huge hit The Monster with the aforementioned rapper, and her red hot appearance writhing around a bed with Shakira in the video for their track Can’t Remember To Forget You, released in January.

Rihanna was supposed to be on a break after finishing her last world tour in October 2013, and

LIFESTYLE

HE’S BEEN BANNED FROM INSTAGRAM, LIKES TO BE TIED UP AND SPANKED, AND SINGS ABOUT HOW WHIPS AND CHAINS EXCITE HER. in between appearing at fashion shows around the world, she has posted countless photos of her flaunting her body in tiny bikinis and even less in a number of tropical locations.

This risqué behaviour from the 26-year-old babe came to a head when she showed up to the CFDA Awards on June 2 wearing a fishnet dress with a few crystals, a fur stole and flesh-coloured G-string protecting her modesty. Critiques and fans came out loudly to lambast her ‘display of nakedness’ or to defend her stunning fashion choice. Rap group TLC hit hard, with lead rapper T-Boz proclaiming that they never had to put their goodies on display to sell records. Rihanna responded in like form, posting a picture on her Twitter of the all-girl group with their naked breasts on display.

Meanwhile, she has been banned (but only temporarily) from Instagram after she posted a magazine cover that revealed her breasts, angering the company, who promptly suspended her account – followed by some 13 million people.

Rihanna has always been open about her sex life, telling Rolling Stone magazine in 2011 she likes to be spanked and tied up, adding: “Being submissive in the bedroom is really fun. You get to be a little lady, to have somebody be macho and in charge of your s**t.”

The star was voted sexiest woman in the world by Esquire magazine in 2011 and has appeared almost completely naked on the covers of magazines including GQ, Lui, Esquire and V. However, while she may look natural in the resulting shots, she claims when it comes to taking her clothes off, she has to assume a character.

Speaking on The Ellen DeGeneres show, she said, “Nobody’s ever completely comfortable all the time being naked in front of strangers and photographers you don’t know. But it’s a bit of a

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LIFESTYLE

character you have to get into, and you get into a place where you zone out of everything else around you.”

She does admit to a natural sexiness thanks to her Barbadian heritage, adding, “I think it’s the way people in the Caribbean move their body, especially when its time to dance … it comes off in a sexual way.”

As self-confessed ‘bad girl’, Rihanna has been attached to her fair share of bad boys, including baseball star Matt Kemp and Olympic boxer Dudley O'Shaughnessy, but her most controversial relationship was her on-off romance with Chris Brown – who was convicted of assaulting her in 2009 – which finally ended in 2012.

In spite of all the sexiness she dishes out in an average day, Rihanna has, in the past, described her sex life as “pathetic.” Her last relationship with rapper Drake – whom she was originally linked to in 2009 – seems to have fizzled out. Again. They hooked up early this year shortly after he called her “the ultimate fantasy” in an interview.

D

espite her tumultuous love life, Rihanna admitted last year that she wants to have a baby. “In five years? … I will probably have a kid,” She told Elle magazine, adding, “And I’ll have set up some things so I don’t have to tour for the rest of my life, even though I love touring.”

Touring has been a big part of Rihanna’s life – and has made a huge contribution to her estimated $43 million fortune, alongside 50 million album and 180 million singles sales, and becoming the first artist to achieve five billion views through video hosting service Vevo.

Her 97-date Diamonds tour in 2013 was her most ambitious yet. The trip saw her headlining a number of places for the first time, including in South Africa, where she even made history, becoming the youngest female artist to sell out a show at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Rihanna was pleased to finally make her trip, Tweeting as she landed in October last year: “Hellooo Mama Africa, how are you?” She was later seen on safari, cuddling up to an elephant, a lion cub and a baby giraffe.

The Diamonds singer was obviously impressed with her visit, and is already said to be planning another trip to South Africa, as she wants to go on safari with her fellow pop star friend Katy Perry.

Whatever Barbados’ most famous figure – born Robyn Rihanna Fenty – does, she is always careful to follow her heart, rather than the rules, which has long been the spark that attracted a holidaying record producer to her in Barbados when she was 16, and saw her being mentored by Jay-Z two years later.

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She told British TV host Alan Carr, “I don’t go out of my way to be a rebel or to have that perception, but a lot of the decisions I make, a lot of the direction I want to move, is against the grain, or against society’s tight lane, and I’m aware of that sometimes. It might not be fitting with the norm, but that’s OK for me.”

The gap between her last record, Unapologetic, released in November 2012, and now is the longest time she has gone without releasing an album since her 2005 debut – so you can count this as the calm before the storm. So get ready, as this will be Rihanna’s summer, and you’d better get used to having her around.

“I DON’T GO OUT OF MY WAY TO BE A REBEL OR TO HAVE THAT PERCEPTION, BUT A LOT OF THE DECISIONS I MAKE, A LOT OF THE DIRECTION I WANT TO MOVE, IS AGAINST THE GRAIN”

RIHANNA’S SEXIEST MOMENTS

GQ For her January 2010 cover shot of GQ magazine, Rihanna appeared topless for the magazine for the first time, covering her modesty with her arms. She has since appeared on it’s covers around the world nude aside from a men’s jacket hanging off her shoulders, with red hair and black tights and as a naked Medusa, a picture created by artist Damien Hirst.

BANNED FROM INSTAGRAM After posting her front cover for French magazine Lui on Instagram in May, the company suspended her account as her nipples could clearly be seen.

2014 CFDA AWARDS Rihanna made waves when she turned up to the event wearing, well… nothing but crystals and a G-string. Designer Adam Selman, who designed the outfit for the star, said, “We definitely wanted to make it a little bit scandalous. The dress is just fishnet and crystals and a couple of crossed fingers.” And her stylist Mel Ottenberg told Style.com: “My shock gauge is off (when it comes to Rihanna).”

NUDE SELFIES In 2009 a series of self-taken naked pictures leaked on the Internet. In the shots – most likely made for ex-boyfriend Chris Brown – the Bajan beauty poses sexily in a hotel room mirror showing off her bare bottom and breasts.

CROP OVER CARNIVAL The babe enjoyed carnival in her home country in 2013, appearing in an elaborate white headdress and jewelled bikini, which left very little to the imagination as she partied.

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BIG GAME PLAYER All eyes are on Barcelona forward Neymar Jnr and the pressure to perform is immense. Are youth and talent enough to carry him through the world's most revered sporting event?

LIFESTYLE

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LIFESTYLE

home country, on home ground. “Getting to be in the final would be a dream in itself,” he says. Who does he hope the opponent team will be? “I do not have a preference, as whoever reaches the final will not be an easy opponent. Of course I dream of playing in a World Cup classic.”

Neymar Jnr, who started his career playing for Brazilian club Santos when he was 11, comes from football pedigree. His father, Neymar Snr, was also a well-known football player. He noticed his son’s talent while he was only six, and nurtured it. By the time he was 16, Neymar Jnr had already signed his first professional football contract.

We catch up with him in his downtime for a relaxing chat about his life in and around football.

YOU HAVE SAID YOU HAD A VERY HUMBLE UPBRINGING. TELL US ABOUT THAT. I did what every other boy of my age did and I have a lot of wonderful memories. I had a humble childhood, yes, but everything that my friends and I did was fun. Playing with a ball in the street, on the beach, flying kites, riding bikes, tag, hide-andseek. It was a very good time!

YOUR FATHER WAS A FOOTBALLER. DID HE ENCOURAGE YOU TO BECOME A PROFESSIONAL?

NEYMAR DA SILVA SANTOS JNR

simply known as Neymar Jnr to you – is Brazil’s most talented player at the moment. Tapped to lead the national team to victory this month when the World Cup comes to an end, the 22-year-old striker (who was nursing a pre-World Cup training injury at the time of going to press) is looking forward to playing in the final, representing his

I think so. And I am sure it had a big influence on me becoming a player. Whenever I could, I went with my father to training and matches, so I grew up in that environment. He was the one who taught me to play and gave me advice about football.

IN TERMS OF STYLE, WHAT HAS YOUR FATHER PASSED ONTO YOU? He always says that he was a player who tried hard. My father told me to finish a training session exhausted and that is what I do to this day. You can always improve on shooting with your left foot, marking, finishing, heading, whatever. I always work to develop and I cannot stop.

I remember my father better playing at the end of his career, because before that I was very little.

But I remember the era in which he played and stood out (laughs). A little while ago we watched a video of a match in which he scored a goal with his head and in the celebration he looks like a mad man, doing a handspring and ending up dancing. I think my inspiration when I celebrate comes from him, but I am a better dancer (laughs).

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LIFESTYLE

INSIDE NEYMAR’S WARDROBE HOW DO YOU DEFINE BEING WELL DRESSED? It is wearing specific clothes or suitable clothes for each situation, but also having your own style of dressing.

WHO DO YOU LOOK UP TO WHILE DRESSING YOURSELF UP OFF THE PITCH? There is not a specific person that inspires me. If I like an item of clothing, I wear it.

And if I see someone, whether they are famous or not, that dresses in a way that I like, that also inspires me.

WHAT DOES BRAZIL HAVE THAT COULD CONTRIBUTE TO WORLD FASHION? Brazil has a lot to offer. We have many models that represent the country abroad and many designers as well. My business is really playing with a ball (laughs), but I am sure that just as there is a lot of talent in football, there is in fashion as well.

YOU HAVE CHANGED YOUR WAY OF DRESSING IN BARCELONA? WHY? I always try to have my own style because it is the way I like to dress and feel good.

The Barcelona climate is different; it is colder, and so I ended up investing more in winter clothes. I am practically turning into a European when it comes to dressing (laughs).

WHAT IS THE ITEM THAT CANNOT BE MISSING IN YOUR CLOSET? Shirt, Bermuda shorts, trainers and hat.

DO YOU COLLECT ANY APPAREL ITEM? I really like sneakers and hats.

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“FOOTBALL IS A TEAM GAME AND I GO ONTO THE PITCH TO HELP MY TEAMMATES. IN THE END THE WINNER IS THE TEAM”

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LIFESTYLE YOU PLAYED A LOT OF FUTSAL. WHAT DID THAT SMALLER SIDED GAME TEACH YOU?

DO YOU STILL FEEL THAT SAME EXCITEMENT THAT YOU HAD AS A KID?

I played with a ball a lot in the street, on the beach, and Futsal has been part of my life since I was small. It was the pitch I began to compete and train on. I think Futsal is essential for any player, because it makes you think very quickly, with short swerves and quick passing and shooting. Futsal almost certainly helped me a lot, above all because I was a forward.

I feel it! I still feel a cold feeling in my stomach in a classic, in a championship final, in an important match.

WAS IT FOOTBALL THAT GAVE YOU CONFIDENCE OR DID YOU HAVE THAT NATURALLY? I think confidence comes from inside you, but you develop it over time. Not just in football but in all sports and other professions you need to be confident in what you do. If you do not have confidence in yourself, who will?

YOU ARE VERY GOOD WITH YOUR HEAD. HAVE YOU WORKED HARD ON IT? I am not a tall player, but because I do not have that characteristic I spend a lot of time training with the ball and on the right moment to go up and make a move. It also has a lot to do with how the wingers pass the ball to me, whether it is effective or not, to see whether to head to the side or the front. It is a matter of training and commitment.

HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE OUT THERE ON THE PITCH WHEN YOU’RE PLAYING AT YOUR BEST? It is the best feeling ever. It is wonderful to hear the crowd cheering and calling your name. Doing a beautiful dribble, giving a perfect pass or assistance and scoring a goal are just indescribable.

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“YOU CAN ALWAYS IMPROVE ON SHOOTING WITH YOUR LEFT FOOT, FINISHING, HEADING, WHATEVER. I ALWAYS WORK TO DEVELOP” YOU SCORED ON YOUR DEBUT FOR BRAZIL AGAINST THE USA IN 2010. CAN YOU DESCRIBE THOSE EMOTIONS? The dream of every athlete is to represent their country. To wear the the Brazil national football team shirt, which has been worn by important football idols, was a moment of great happiness, an honour for me. The first time I was called to the senior team was a moment of great joy, the fulfilment of a childhood dream.

WHAT IS IT LIKE PLAYING ALONGSIDE TWO OF THE GAME’S GREATEST PLAYERS, MESSI AND XAVI?

TELL US ABOUT YOUR LIFE OFF THE PITCH. I like being at home, doing nothing, talking, playing cards, videogames, listening to music. I like being with my family and friends, doing barbecues, playing videogames, playing cards, go-kart racing – there are lots of things that I like!

AFTER TRAINING WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO WITH THE REST OF YOUR DAY? When I am not training, concentrating, playing or involved with some personal commitment, I am at home or I go out to eat or for a walk and get to know Barcelona a little better.

It is an honour for me. They are two amazing football players and excellent people out of the pitch! It is certainly a privilege that few people have and I am so happy to play with them.

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MONEY

YOUR

HOW TO RAISE CAPITAL FOR

CLATE MASK

MICHAEL LEWIS

A former business executive and entrepreneur, Lewis writes about business funding, money management, and technology on the popular financial blog, Money Crashers “Having little or no capital is a primary reason why businesses fail – bootstrapping a business when you're not drawing a salary and depleting whatever savings you have, is dangerous.

Similarly, the most egregious, indefensible mistake an entrepreneur can make when seeking capital is asking for too little money. Lacking sufficient capital in the beginning is akin to starting a long journey with empty pockets, a brokendown vehicle, and a half-tank of gas; the odds that you will reach your destination are slim to none. When calculating the capital you need, plan that everything will take twice as long and cost twice as much as you expect. Figure that your worstcase scenario will occur. Don't assume instant profitability.

And remember, if you don't raise enough capital initially to cushion your company if sales are slow or emergencies occur, it will be nearly impossible to raise more money just to keep the business going. The most common source of startup capital is the business owner themselves i.e. through savings, friends and family. When these sources are exhausted or unavailable, entrepreneurs usually seek capital from private sources such as commercial and investment banks, groups established by private investors to exploit such opportunities and wealthy individuals. Their proposed investment is usually styled in the form of debt, equity, or a combination of each.”

SOURCE: HUFF POST SMALL BUSINESS

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Clate is the CEO and co-founder of Infusionsoft, a business software company, and co-author of the New York Times bestseller Conquer The Chaos: How to Grow a Successful Small Business Without Going Crazy “The first core of raising capital for a venture, especially when planning to approach investors, is to be crystal clear on your vision; to passionately articulate your story. Investors want to know you have a top tier plan and that you will stick around to make the vision a reality. Next, know your market. Have an exact idea of what your customers want – investors want to see the market potential and proof you have the scale to go after it. Investors are typically looking for a three-to-10 times return in a reasonable amount of time; therefore, know what your key performance metrics are before you walk into those meetings.

Show how you will use the proceeds of a deal to drive greater results and a great return of their money. Build relationships with the influencer groups such as partners and potential clients. These third party references will validate your venture. Finally, you may be tempted to take your first or biggest offer, but be selective – weed out firms that that have terms contrary to your vision.

Being selective also means you end up with several great term sheets and will have a better outcome in the end.”

SOURCE: WWW.FORBES.COM

START-UP Funding is one of the greatest concern for any entrepreneur.

Here’s some advice from three business moguls on how to go about it strategically

RICHARD BRANSON

A business magnate and investor, Branson is the charismatic founder of Virgin Group, which comprises more than 400 companies “Your local community is often the best place to start when looking for funding opportunities, but if you can’t find anyone suitable to work with, the logical next step is to broaden your search to the national or even international level. Whatever your business idea, if you look long and hard enough, you’ll be able to find someone with a shared vision who will want to help. Online communities and forums about issues in your sector can help you to contact those who will be interested in what you’re doing. Such people are all potential investors.

“Another great way to generate excitement about your idea and raise funds is through crowdfunding.

Thanks to websites like Kickstarter and EquityNet, it’s now easier to drum up interest around your new idea or innovation and find small loans and pledges.

Preparing a pitch for an online forum is not easy, but if things go well, you could soon find people from all over the world hoping to buy your product or service.

Entrepreneurship isn’t just about selling things, it’s also about finding ways to make a difference in people’s lives. Setting up a company explicitly to bring about positive change may be challenging, but keep in mind that enterprises that survive and thrive in the long run are ones that have won the trust and respect of their communities.”

SOURCE: WWW.ENTREPRENEUR.COM

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MONEY

INSIDE THE WORLD OF

BIDCO

Bidco Oil Refinery is one of East Africa’s largest manufacturers, with Superbrand status to boot.

They have recently announced ambitious plans to enter the soft drinks market.

What drives the company’s vision and current success?

WORDS BY R. WAWERU

PROFILE As the largest manufacturer of edible oils in East and Central Africa, a dominating market share and a gross of over $500 million in annual sales, Bidco Oil Refinery brands have been Kenyan household names for decades. With a logo depicting an oval globe to represent worldwide recognition and a strong African presence, this company has become one of the greatest forces to reckon with in regional corporate circles.

BIDCO’S PRODUCTS Over 40 brands, including edible oils and fats such as Elianto and Golden Fry; Gold Band margarine; soaps; Gental and White Star detergents, and baking products.

FOUNDATIONS Bidco was founded in Nyeri in 1970 as a garment manufacturing company.

In the 1980s it shifted to soap manufacturing before launching into oil and fats in 1991. Today it has manufacturing units in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, with a distribution network totaling 14 countries across Africa. Father and sons’ trio

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(founder B.D. Shah, and his sons Tarun and Vimal Shah) share Bidco’s ownership. Forbes Africa lists Vimal Shah and family at number 18 among 50 of Africa’s richest, with a net worth of $1.6 Billion as of November 2013.

GROWTH Between 1994 and 1997, Bidco increased in capacity by 500 per cent. In 1998 alone, it grew by 800 per cent. Today Bidco employs more than 2, 000 individuals directly and has over 20, 000 in its value chain. Its growth has been influenced by major acquisitions, notably corn oil super brand Elianto from Unga Group in 1998.

At the turn of the century, Bidco marked its entry into Tanzania, one of Africa’s fastest growing markets, by acquiring Tanzania’s Shivji & Sons Ltd, a soap manufacturing plant. Besides acquiring other leading brands from Unilever in 2011, the innovative company launched its first beauty soap, which went on to win the SAP quality award that same year. In spite of stiff competition for market share from industry bigwigs Kapa Oil

MONEY

Ltd and Pwani oil Ltd, research data from Consumer Insight Kenya terms Bidco’s market dominance as secure for now.

Disclosure notes from The International Finance Corporation (IFC) in May this year indicated that the multilateral lender proposes to lend the company KSh2 billion to go towards the company’s KSh4 billion planned expansion to its existing plant in Thika, and to the construction of a new plant. The new plant will helm new products, and will additionally benefit about 20, 000 farmers who will supply the company with raw materials.

BD SHAH

THE TEAM BD SHAH He is the founder and chairman of the Bidco group. A fourth generation Kenyan born in Mombasa, this 82-year-old innovator has over 65 years of business experience.

Starting his career working at a gas station at the age of 15, BD Shah played the pivotal role in the creation of the Bidco group. As chairman, he supervises the company’s functionalities and is famed for his keen eye to detail and fool-proof methodologies.

TARUN SHAH One of BD Shah’s sons, Tarun Shah has been an integral part of Bidco’s growth. Returning from college in the UK at the age of 21, he spearheaded manufacturing research for Bidco in the early 80’s. Tarun’s detailed insights to development and hands-on involvement in the construction of plants has made him a technical and commercial specialist who has guided Bidco’s expansion across East Africa. A qualified chartered certified accountant, Tarun is known for his simple, forward thinking business style and a commitment to creating value and dynamism in Bidco.

TARUN SHAH

VIMAL SHAH

VIMAL SHAH BD’s other son and Bidco’s CEO, Vimal is regarded as one of Africa’s most distinguished business leaders. A holder of a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and finance from USIU, Vimal has several recognitions to his name; he has two presidential awards to his name, Chief of the Order of the Burning Spear and the Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear. He is also All Africa Business Leaders Entrepreneur of the year 2012, Kenya Institute of Management CEO of the year 2008, Third East Africa Business Leader of the Future, among many more. He is also the Chairman of the Kenya Private Sector Alliance, Chairman of the East African Business Council and director of Tatu City. 54-year-old Vimal is known as a charismatic visionary. He is also passionate about mentorship, and is constantly invited to give talks at institutions which include the Harvard Business School.

DIPAK SHAH With over 19 years’ experience as a chartered accountant with extensive knowledge and exposure to the entire East African market, Dipak is part of the core management team and looks after a variety of functions that include evaluation of new projects, managing the group’s administration and financial structures, statutory compliance, occupational health and safety standards, business co-ordination, lean accounting implementation, shareholder advisory, legal and commercial analysis and transactional reviews.

INVENTIVE BUSINESS FEATURE EzeBidco: A swipe-and-pay service for the purchase of Bidco products. Retailers, distributors and wholesalers use it to order, purchase and pay for Bidco products through a credit card, allowing then to order goods at any given time and have them delivered within 24 hours.

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A CITY SAFARI Are you looking for accommodation close enough to Nairobi’s CBD to do business that also feels like a getaway? Look no further than these boutique hotels WORDS BY STEVEN PRICE BROWN

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LIFESTYLE

Ngong House 60 NDOVU ROAD, KAREN TEL: 0722 434 965, 0733 600 184

When you step out of the car and Carol the client manager at Ngong House meets you, all memories of Nairobi slip away. It feels more like you’ve been invited for a weekend away with stylish friends, not booking into a hotel. Sitting in one of the plush rustic sofas, cocktail in hand, natural wood and stone architecture around you, a fire place and dogs snoozing by your feet, you get whisked yet further away from the actual10kms you are from the city centre. Ngong House is superbly thought out; each detail has been attended to by the owner, Belgian ex-pat Paul Verleysen. The ambiance is a wonderful combination of the strong powerful wood of Africa and fine Belgian style. The hotel has nine cottages and tree houses, each featuring unique decor themes. Tree houses with dhow shaped baths, a huge firepit to sit around at night and impeccable food make this a safari without having to travel too far. The gardens are not manicured, so as to look like as close to the African bush as possible.

With the view of the Ngong Hills, sunsets are very romantic here.

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LIFESTYLE

Hemmingway’s MBAGATHI RIDGE, KAREN TEL: 020 229 5013

Grand. That’s the only way to describe this plantation style hotel. A mixture of luxury, sophistication and the warmth of a country house, Hemmingway’s emphasises space and air in every corner of the 10-acre property. The lawns and gardens are a marvel, with carpet-like Zimbabwean grass manicured to a tee. The view of the Ngong Hills from each of the 80 bedrooms’ private balconies gives this hotel a perfect view.

Hemmingway’s looks, smells and tastes of exactly what is, a great quality hotel doing its job very well.

The most unique thing about Hemmingway’s is the butler system, where a member of staff is tasked with taking care of each guest’s particular needs. 14 km from the CBD, Hemmingway’s pushes the limit of the boutique feeling but its classy delivery makes up for it.

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The Bedelle 551 RUNDA CRESCENT, RUNDA TEL: 0700 368 611, 0733 370 312

Nestled deep in the heart of Runda, this is a little slice of magnificent boutique accommodation.

With an unmistakable European style targeting those with international travel tastes, The Bedelle is cosy with only seven rooms, each impeccably designed. There are some grand features – a presidential suite worth its title, a terrace, and poolside ideal for al fresco dining. The interior décor, charming gardens and unique ambience make this boutique hotel incredibly sophisticated.

The Bedelle is a haven for the most discerning business executives, tourists and travellers alike.

If you want a break from the hustle and bustle of Nairobi, then spend a weekend here and enjoy the wide menu and a glass of Chianti.

Wasini CHURCH ROAD, WESTLANDS TEL: 020 234 9545, 0734 082 328

Wasini feels like a very classy coastal home, yet it’s set right in the heart of Westlands. The most striking features about Wasini are the signature colours that accommodations at the Kenyan coast are known for – rustique earthen décor representing the warmth of African heritage, African print cushions, unpolished wood, African vases, brass accessories.

All these unite to make any contemporary afrolover feel right at home. With six one-bedroom, 32 two-bedroom and two penthouse suites, you will find all the expected amenities of a luxurious hotels, from safes to complimentary Wi-Fi, spa and gym.

Enjoy the luxury of feeling as if you are miles away from the hassles of the city while still perfectly placed to shop, party and do business.

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ENTERTAINMENT

The Transformers: Age of Extinction star promises that this battle between the Decepticons and the Autobots will be biggest of the franchise thus far

mark wahlberg isn't about to go extinct WORDS BY

A

ANDY TILLETT

fter three films featuring eternally youthful Shia LeBeouf as lead character Sam Witwicky, Mark Wahlberg is taking over the helm of the franchise for Transformers: Age of Extinction.

The actor is confident of just how much impact the new film will have. “This will be the biggest movie of 2014,” he says. “I had to jump at the opportunity (to appear in it) because I really feel like it is probably the most iconic franchise in movie history."

The fourth Transformers movie has a separate storyline from the first three and sees Wahlberg star as Cade Yeager, a struggling Texan inventor who,

alongside his daughter Tessa, discovers Autobots leader Optimus Prime and re-ignites the intergalactic war between the robot alien, his allies and the evil Decepticons on earth.

“I have been telling everyone this really is a stand alone movie,” Wahlberg says. “Despite the fact they call it Transformers IV it’s a completely different story. It takes place after the battle of Chicago; it’s very different from the other one.”

Transformers IV picks up four years after the last movie, Transformers: Dark of the Moon, which saw Chicago practically razed by the robots’ infighting.

Wahlberg adds that he believes the movie will be

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ENTERTAINMENT TRANSFORMERS BABES

“bigger and better than all three of the previous films combined.”

In the movie, Cade’s daughter is played by Nicola Peltz, and her race car driver boyfriend, Shane Dyson, is portrayed by Jack Reynor. Other stars in the movie include Kelsey Grammer as a paranoid government official and Stanley Tucci who plays a designer trying to build his own robots to rival the Transformers.

Wahlberg thinks the new cast will add a deeper level of humanity to the storyline than the previous two sequels, and also points out how much more is at stake this time around, particularly as the film’s title threatens extinction – presumably of the human race.

He says, “I think the emotional core of it, the human element, is going to be extremely powerful.

It’s an ordinary man trying to do extraordinary things to save his daughter and keep her alive — and this boyfriend he didn’t know anything about.

“He’d had a child when he was in high school and his wife passed away, and the promise she’d made to him was that she wouldn’t date any boys until she graduated and that she’d be at the graduation. So there’s an anchor to it and a realness to it that I like a lot.”

Wahlberg, 42, says the moment he was asked to sign on for the movie by director Michael Bay, was a great honour for him. He told Collider.com: “It’s a very intimate process working with Michael.

After making Pain and Gain, he walked me to my car and he said, ‘Hey I want to let you be in Transformers’. And I said, ‘absolutely, as long as we get to have the same creative relationship and I get to do my thing,’ because I like to do my own thing, and he allowed me to take a character in Pain and Gain and bring my own personality to it. And he said, ‘That’s why I want you,’ so it was great.”

Transformers returning to the movie include favourites Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, Brains and Ratchet. Michael Bay says he had auto companies knocking his door down to get their vehicles in his movie. “The first movie, I had to beg for vehicles.

But now every car company says, ‘We will fly out any car to show you so it can be in the movie’.”

However, there’s a catch: “‘As long as it’s one of the good guys,’ they say.”

Optimus will transform into a Western Star 4900 Phantom truck, which is true to his most popular action figure form in the 1980s, but four of the other characters – who haven’t been revealed yet – will morph into trucks supplied by Daimler (who reportedly spent half a million dollars designing them). Bumblebee is to turn into two different vehicles, both Chevrolet Camaros, one a modified 1967 model, the other another custom, from 2014.

However, it’s not all about cars, as one of the huge developments in this movie is the addition of

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WHO’S HOTTEST?

Megan Fox

Raven haired and huge lipped, the original Transformers babe smouldered on screen, giving millions of pre-teenage boys feelings they had trouble explaining. Unfortunately for Megan, after two movies she decided it would be a good idea to compare director Michael Bay to Hitler, leading to sharp exit.

HOTNESS RATING 4/5

Rosie HuntingtonWhitley Determined to outdo Megan in the sexy stakes, Michael hired British underwear model Rosie for her first ever film role, and somehow managed to take the sexiness even further.

With even bigger lips and higher cheekbones, from the first shot of her in Transformers: Dark of the Moon, which focused on her legs as she sexily strode over to a bed wearing just her knickers and a man’s shirt – it was obvious Megan had been outdone.

HOTNESS RATING 5/5

Nicola Peltz

With such a tough pair of acts to follow, it remains to be seen if newcomer Nicola will set the screen on fire in the same way. However, Mark Wahlberg says there’s going to be more emphasis on the characters being realistic in this movie, rather than just looking hot.

And what could be more sexy than brains? We’ll get back to you on that…

HOTNESS RATING TBC

the Dinobots – a different breed of Transformer who transform into dinosaurs.

While the Dinobots – which include leader Grimlock, who morphs into a Tyrannosaurus Rex, Slag, who becomes a Triceratops and Snarl, who is also a Stegosaurus – are technically Autobots, they are a fiercely independent faction and prone to going it alone, which could cause Optimus Prime and his gang some serious headaches.

As with all Transformers (and indeed, most Michael Bay) movies, you can be sure to expect explosions, destruction on a huge level, explosions, epic battles, and probably a few more explosions thrown in or good measure.

The fate of the Autobots, the Dinobots and the Decepticons – complete with explosions – will be decided when the film hits cinema screens around the world very soon.

“IT IS BIGGER AND BETTER THAN ALL THREE OF THE PREVIOUS FILMS COMBINED.THIS WILL BE THE BIGGEST MOVIE OF 2014” MARK WAHLBERG

WHO’S NEW AROUND HERE? We’re all familiar with Optimus Prime and the wisecracking Bumblebee, but there is a whole new set of characters in Age of Extinction

LOCKDOWN

GRIMLOCK

Leader of the Dinobots, a species of Transformer who turn into dinosaurs. Grimlock is a T-Rex, and his buddies include Snarl (a Stegosaurus), Slug (a triceratops) and Strafe, a Pteranodon… whatever one of those was.

A mysterious bounty hunter who is neither on the side of the Autobots nor the Decepticons, but nevertheless has some business on earth. We think he’s likely to be a pretty badass character; he morphs into a Lamborghini!

JUNKHEAP

GALVATRON

This is the REAL dark lord! He’s a human made Transformer who goes rogue and re-surfaces as the Decepticon leader, in all his huge, badass glory. There has been a great deal of internet debate as to whether Galvy (as we like to call him) is a reincarnation of Megatron, but lets not get into that here.

Our personal favourite addition, this bad guy transforms into a waste disposal truck. We’re betting he’s the most rubbish Transformer yet!

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Hey’Z WORDS BY

CAROLINE OKELLO

has got it made Gospel artist Daniel Heho, aka Hey’Z, talks about his music, his business and his personal style

ENTERTAINMENT

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ENTERTAINMENT

H

ey’Z Da Brand does not like suits. When he is on stage he is in smart-casual garb.

He will attend meetings in smart-casual.

He will even go to cocktail parties in smart-casual clothes. “I hate suits. Put that on record, I hate suits,” says the 28-year-old recording and performing artiste. “Khakis and shirts, anytime. I love stunners as well. I love H&M for something nice, trendy and fitting and lots of Zara.” He shows up for this interview in a green shirt and blue jeans. He looks quite the part for someone who says rapper TI’s career path inspires him – the swag, the style, the confidence... “He just has class, man.”

You’ll know Hey’Z from his debut gospel track, Nampenda, which came out in 2007. His rise thereafter was fast; by 2009 he had already won two Groove Awards. If he’s been silent lately, its only because he’s taken time out over the past two and a half years to focus on his graphic design business.

Hey’Z was born Daniel Ng’ang’a Heho, in Mombasa. His father was a civil engineer who moved towns a fair bit, and Hey’Z had the benefit of living in Kitale, Eldoret, Kendu Bay and finally Kisii town, where the family lived for 10 years because his father wanted them to have a sense of place.

Hey’Z started honing his act early, while still in primary and high school, where he was an active performer in poetry and drama activities. He would write compositions that won trophies for his school, but it wasn’t the winning that intrigued him; it was the fact that people actually sat still and listened to him as he performed. But then, “I thought poems and choral verses were a bit too formal so I started writing silly songs. Then I thought there was no point in rhyming for rhyming sake. It’s all about putting the right words in the right place to create a message.”

“There is no point in rhyming for rhyming sake. It’s all about putting the right words in the right place to create a message.”

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Hey’Z got born again in 2005. “I thank my mother for that,” he says. She always told him when everything else was letting him down, God would always be there. It was only natural that his love for poetry and music would also go gospel. He uses his music to encourage people and remind them about the word of God. He draws inspiration from everyday experiences.

Take the song Bado Nasonga: He recorded it during the lowest moment of his life. “I was working as a freelance designer. I’d be in the house all day waiting for the phone to ring. I had rent arrears up to four months. I had an office that I wasn’t using, and rent arrears of six months on it. Then one day a call came, and I landed a deal. I recorded Bado Nasonga to give (others) hope as well.”

Hey’Z started his design career in 2010 with an internship at City Imaging, then worked at Bernsoft Interactive as a personal designer. In 2013, he opened his own outfit called On Time Garage where he serves fellow artists as well as corporate clients.

I ask him how he reconciles the two sides of him – his artistic side and his methodical, business half.

“Writing music and design both involve creativity so there’s not much challenge changing from Daniel the artiste to Daniel the designer.”

Have his relationships ever suffered because of his career? “Well, yes. But I have learnt to make it all work. It involves proper planning so that neither should suffer.”

The typical day for Hey’Z starts with a 30-minute jog in the morning, work through the day and a meet up with “my lady” after. He records music over the weekend.

In future, he sees both his design business and music thriving. He sings verses of some of the songs he is currently recording in studio before saying, “I’m sure I’m going to get to where I don’t have to be at the company for my business to operate, so I’ll still be able to do my music very well and very easily. But watch out for both.”

ENTERTAINMENT

HEY’Z AT A GLANCE WHAT SONG REMINDS YOU MOST OF YOUR CHILDHOOD? “Sasa ni saa sita, kwaheri mwalimu” (laughs).

WHAT'S THE BIGGEST CROWD YOU'VE EVER PLAYED FOR? 30,000-plus at Mama Ngina Drive during the Groove Awards Mombasa Tour.

HAVE YOU EVER WEPT OPENLY ON STAGE? No. I’m a rapper and do hype music.

It’s hard to get to such a point.

HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR A SHOW? Dance, lots of practice and prayer.

WHAT’S THE MOMENT LIKE JUST BEFORE YOU GO ON STAGE? I get nervous on stage even after all these years, as you never know what crowd the crowd will be like.

WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE EVER RECEIVED? Never let it go to your head.

HOW DO YOU LIKE TO SPEND YOUR MONEY? Investing in order to secure my son’s future.

WHAT DO YOU DO FOR FUN? Movies, movies and more movies!

ARE YOU HAPPY WITH THE LIFE YOU’VE CREATED FOR YOURSELF? Yes.

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LIFESTYLE

I DO, AGAIN Often referred to as the ‘Polygamy Bill’, Kenya’s new Marriage Bill is causing waves of upset and cheers of support in equal measure.

We find out why WORDS BY

R. WAWERU

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LIFESTYLE

The recently signed Marriage Bill sparked one heated debate. Although the act that President Uhuru Kenyatta signed affected various laws relating to marriage, most of Kenya and the world’s attention has been focused on the clauses relating to polygamy.

The law in a nutshell Basically, the legislation bans marriage for those under 18 years of age. It specifies that marriage is between a man and a woman (but does not explicitly ban the custom of an infertile woman ‘marrying’ a younger fertile woman), it provides equal property and inheritance rights, it requires that all marriages (even customary ones) be registered and finally, it legalises polygamy, allowing men to marry as many wives as they want in a customary setting without having to consult their prior wife/wives.

Polygamy in Kenya is an age old practice; traditionally, a man was allowed to marry as many wives as he wanted as long as he could take good care of them and their children. When the Marriage Bill was originally proposed, it was condemned and voted down, the main contention being the wife’s right to specify at marriage contract level whether the husband may take another wife in future (this provision is present in most countries where polygamy is legal). Following years of amendments and pending in Parliament, the bill is finally law.

It describes marriage as “the voluntary union of a man and a woman whether in a monogamous or polygamous marriage”.

The jubilant ‘ayes’ First to applaud this development were the like of the group Men’s Empowerment and Development in Kenya, MED, and its affiliates. In its usual style,

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this ‘official’ men’s rights activism group termed the signing a “break from female oppression” and a “win for men’s rights in Kenya.” A majority of the MPs behind the drawing and passing of this bill make no apologies for their blatant traditionalist leanings. “Who did King Solomon notify when he was getting another wife?” one legislator argued during the debate. “Your wife does not need to be told when you are coming home with a second wife. Any lady you bring home is your wife!”

Julius Kamenwa, a law student at the University of Nairobi offers his argument: “I think that, if anything, the legalisation of polygamy is meant to safeguard the rights of women and children.

Polygamy has been going on even when it was illegal. Without legislation, men were kicking out wives and marrying others without any regard to the woman's wellbeing. Now, if you marry three wives and decide to divorce one, you'll have to compensate her and take full responsibility for bringing up the kids from all wives. Women should be celebrating the fact that men can no longer just ‘keep’ those clandestine ‘families’. Some random woman can’t just show up at your husband’s funeral claiming to be the second wife and demanding support, and even if they do, they have no legal claim. This is a win for women.”

The Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA, agree s with some aspects of the law as well: “Finally all marriages are being treated equally,” Christine Ochieng’, the organisation’s executive director, was quoted in a statement to CNN. “Women can now legally prove they are married to a particular man.” But as expected, FIDA and its affiliates do not agree with every part of this legislation.

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LIFESTYLE

The disgruntled‘nays’ FIDA disagrees with the fact that a man can marry again without the consent of the first wife. “This section is potentially open to abuse,” Ms. Ochieng told CNN. FIDA has expressed intention to launch a legal challenge to this clause.

As expected, a great majority of the opponents of this clause are Kenyan women. “This should not even be an issue today, in this century,” says 32-year-old Amanda, married for three years now. “This country is moving backwards instead of forward. This is wrong – that women whose circumstances don’t give them the power to have a church wedding or get married at the government registrar’s should now expect that a man can have another wife, no questions asked. No veto? This level of chauvinism is archaic!”

“I don’t understand what these women reps are doing, all they know is how to ‘storm out’ of Parliament!” says an agitated Josephine Achieng, a 25-year-old beauty therapist. “Second, I don’t agree with polygamy. Third, husbands should at least seek the opinion of the first wife, if only as a matter of courtesy. Actually, if these men want to justify this with ‘tradition’, then they should do it how it was done traditionally – by seeking consent from the first wife.”

For Wanjiru, a 50-year-old business lady, the sticking point is that women are not allowed to marry have many husbands as well. “I am not saying that women should marry many men, but I’ll use this reference to make my point: There is clearly a lack of equality between spouses. One of the most solid things about the new Constitution was its enhancement of equality and it is such laws that

water down the Constitution. Basically, the wife’s right to self-determination has been violated.”

“In my opinion, this is just an excuse for men to have multiple sexual partners legally” argues Amanda. “You wait and see how HIV will spread through these so called ‘marriages’. This is a time bomb law.” When I put this argument to newlywed Duncan, 30, he quips, “What is the difference between being married to more than one woman and being single and sleeping with more than woman? No difference.” He leaves it at that.

The financial implications of polygamy has been a strong argument, with most men citing this as the only ‘hitch’. “A rich man can have as many women as he wants, call them wives, girlfriends or whatever,” says 42-year-old Albert. “As long as their material need are adequately met, chances are that these women don’t even mind being ‘co-wives’. And these men should also realise that after the honeymoon, this so called ‘new wife’ will eventually turn into yet another wife, with more demands for everything. It’s almost a vicious cycle. What’s the point?”

Wanjiru lends her last concern: “Polygamy means more children in a household. The sad fact about this is that everyone will blame women for having children who cannot be adequately catered for. If she can't even choose to be in a monogamous relationship what makes you think she can choose how many children she has?”

At the end of the day, it seems that that those who propose and oppose this law love and hate it with equal measure. A small majority are quite indifferent, while some believe nothing has changed – that Kenyan men and multiple ‘wives’ have always been synonymous terms. With these conflicts of opinion, it seems that this debate has only just began.

“A rich man can have as many women as he wants, call them wives, girlfriends or whatever. As long as their material need are adequately met, chances are that these women don’t even mind being ‘co-wives’ .

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LIFESTYLE SIERRA BRASSERIE LOUNGE, 2nd floor, Yaya Centre,

LOCATION

Argwings Kodhek Rd, Nairobi, tel: 020 806 8593/4, 020 356 2068, 020 256 2068 info@ozzbeco.com

Black cardigan with brown calico patches, Truworths Man, Ksh6,300; Escarpado brown and blue shoes, Bianco Nero, Ksh12,500; Black pony cap, Angelo, Ksh2,700; Berry fashion pants, Mr Price, Ksh2,400

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from Strut It Afrika Ltd

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STYLIST MAKEUP

GREAT LIKE GATSBY The 1920s was a jazzy era marked by sophisticated, light, bright style for men. Here's how to incorporate these vintage elements into your modern look

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LIFESTYLE STOCK LIST ANGELO Ground floor, The Junction, Nairobi.

0719 614 970; www.deacons.co.ke

Aston leather jacket, Truworths Man, Ksh8,300; White Oak basic golfer, Truworths Man, Ksh950 Jeans and boots, model’s own; Pocket watch, stylist’s own

BIANCO NERO Ground floor, The Junction, Nairobi.

0725 657 760, 0721 505 125. www. facebook.com/pages/Bianco-Nero/ CARAMA BOUTIQUE: Store A, Mini Mall Adams Arcade, Ngong Road, Nairobi. 0708 868 689 MR PRICE: Ground floor, The Junction, Nairobi.

0714 614 923 TRUWORTHS MAN Ground floor,The Junction, Nairobi.

0719 615 186; www.deacons.co.ke WOOLWORTHS Ground floor, The Junction, Nairobi.

0719 615 162; www.deacons.co.ke

PU Desert black boots, Mr Price, Ksh3,000; Armani jeans, Bianco Nero, Ksh8,000; White cotton shirt, model’s own; Watch, model’s own

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LIFESTYLE

Best Western denim shirt, Mr Price, Ksh2,400; Tailored British khaki chinos, Mr Price, Ksh2,100; Censay shoes, Bianco Nero, Ksh12,500; Romaman Homme bowtie set with matching cufflinks and handkerchief, Carama Boutique, Ksh2,000

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Black suit coat, model’s own; Bianco Nero leather shoes, Bianco Nero, Ksh12,500; Pink tie, Bianco Nero, Ksh1,500; Black smart lapel collar waistcoat, Mr Price, Ksh2,300; Smart LS white shirt, Mr Price, Ksh2,100; Black formal trousers, Woolworths, Ksh6,900; Black leather belt, Truworths Man, Ksh2,100

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WORDS BY STEVEN PRICE BROWN

OBJECT OF DESIRE

THE OMEGA SPEEDMASTER: DARK SIDE OF THE MOON OMEGA has been showing us the meaning of ‘cool’ since they first started helping us tell the time back in 1848. If you don’t believe us, then ask the most stylish man on earth: James Bond.

He never saves the world without his trusty OMEGA peeking from beneath his shirt cuff.

The Swiss wristwatch company upped the stakes at this year’s watch and jewellery show, Baselworld 2014, with what reviewers have termed possibly their most important watch to date. The OMEGA Speedmaster: Dark Side of the Moon has been created to commemorate the three US astronauts who were the first of humankind to see the far side of the moon in 1968.

This is a beautiful piece of machinery; it’s incredibly practical, but it’s the stand-out design that makes this an object of desire.

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COOL FEATURES At the heart of this chronograph is OMEGA’s mechanical calibre 1861, the famous manual-winding movement that was worn on the moon.

A black dial covered in Hesalite crystal, which is approved by NASA. A 30-minute and 12-hour recorder, along with a central chronograph hand.

The black bezel, with its tachymetric scale, is mounted on a 42mm stainless steel case and presented on a matching bracelet.