December 2017 -January 2018 Edition

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring

december 2017 startupmagazine.co.ke Kshs. 300 / Ushs. 9000 Tshs. 6000 / RWF. 2200

INSIDE

>Innovation

A Sure Bet to Keep Africa Moving Forward

> Koto Housing

Build Your Dream House in Only 21 Days

> Interview; Andrey Yakunin Understanding the hospitality market in Russia

>Travel & Leisure What to Know about the Marine Parks at the Coastal Kenya

KENBRIGHT Navigating risk and regulatory complexity With Rich History Sammy Makove, Head, Corporate Affairs and Advisory at Kenbright December 2017 I startupmagazine.co.ke

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Contents

December 2017

5. Editorial 6. Quotable Quotes 7. Letters 8. In The Loop 12. Woman of Power Shaping your healthy living experience 14. My Hustle I Quit Employment to Pursue Passion in Renewable Energy Solution

TRANSUNION KENYA 20.

10.

18. Tech MASTERCARD; A World Beyond Cash 20. Koto Housing Build Your Dream House in Only 21 Days with Koto Housing

COVER STORY 24. Kenbright Navigating risk and regulatory complexity With Rich History

OPINION 28. Russian Hospitality 30. Going Green 32. Human Capital 34. Customer Service

52.

38.

INVEST IN AFRICA

26.

36.

Innovation; A Sure Bet to Keep Africa Moving Forward

36. Innovation

COFFEE BREAK 42. Book Review 43. Blog Review

50.

40.

BOOK REVIEW

44. Song Review

TRAVEL & LEISURE

54.

42.

December 2017 I startupmagazine.co.ke

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring Managing Editor Sylvester Habil Okumu sylvester@startupmagazine.co.ke Associate Editor Adisa Hudson adisa@startupmagzine.co.ke

Editorial Oroni Tendera ibrahim@startupmagzine.co.ke Contributors Perminus Wainaina Sthe Shabangu Martin Diaz Kiruthu Lucy Bench Events

Business Development Manager Washingtone Terry Marketing Executive Irene Okoth Operations Simpson Ayodi

Creative Designer Adams Habil design@startupmagazine.co.ke

Published by Kreative Hub Media 4th Floor, Ruprani House, next to Family Bank Towers P. O. Box 3875-30200 Moktar Daddah Street, Nairobi, Kenya.

Tel: (+254) 20-2088776 Cell:(+254) 724 113 683/ (+254) 770 467 370 E-mail: info@startupmagazine.co.ke Website: www.startupmagazine.co.ke

StartUp Magazine KE

@startupmagazine_ea

Startup Magazine is published monthly. Copyright 2017 Kreative Hub Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form including photocopy, or any storage and retrieval system without the publisher’s permission in writing.

The views expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the position of the publisher. Readers are advised to seek professional advice before acting on any information contained in this publication.

Startupmagazine.co.ke I December 2017

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Head start

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring Today, most business enterprises form a critical back born that drives our economy. Agribusiness, to technology oriented, privates sectors, huge multinationals corporations, collaterals and small micro enterprising ventures are no doubt key players in the economy in terms of creating employment and eventual contribution to the states gross domestic product.

With understanding of the implication of business ventures in pushing our economy to the next, StartUp Magazine was rebirthed. One of the best-selling business magazine, StartUp Magazine now targets young and middle-aged urban professionals, business executives and entrepreneurs who have great chance of building our economy. We provide apt business information that focuses on understanding the structure of the economy, the roles of organizations within it, the place of local SMEs, financial access and start up business, and the impact of government interventions designed to promote sustainable economic growth.

The magazine identifies and exploits technology-based business opportunities that inform the global value chains.

We are concerned with sharing business opportunities and trends that have potential and our readers get scoop first hand. As such, we are keen to provide our readers with the business acumen to successfully move ideas and innovations into commercial. This is done through information and links on opportunities and innovations that can be tapped.

Through our informative editorial, in-depth analysis, practical articles, lengthy creative and refreshing layout, StartUp Magazine is exciting, inspiring and motivating. Driven by an excellent pool of correspondents and contributors, StartUp shares quality, relevant and diverse articles giving our readers a global perspective while maintaining distinctive local insight. We are “glo-cal�. While we are keen to borrow a leaf in terms of tech-novation to find relevance in the global platform; our local distinctiveness is something we uphold through our writings and the stories selection.

StartUp Magazine is published monthly by Kreative Hub Media. It gives you a refreshing perspective on business and entrepreneurial trends infused with technological innovation.

Your business informant with great fidelity and utility! sylvester@startupmagazine.co.ke

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December 2017 I startupmagazine.co.ke

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6

Quotable Quotes

Abigail Arunga Do you know why mothers are a healing ground? Because they have been knitting you together, reshaping you, since you were a nothing. Forming your fibres is their genius.

Making you whole again, in a cycle that begun when you made them mothers and they started making you.”

Abigail Arunga, 28, is a writer, blogger, scriptwriter and a consulting editor.

She runs a poetry collection akello.co.ke. She began her writing career as an intern for Storymoja Publishers and is a 2011 honours graduate of USIU. She used to be the Digital Editor for Zuqka.com and worked as a contributor for several local Kenyan magazines such as Saturday Magazine (Nation), Home and Living and DRUM. Abigail was also a scriptwriter for the award-winning soap opera “Lies that Bind” and writes for TV with shows such as “How to Find A Husband” and “Majaribu”.

Enos Olik “Being able to film people who are really talented and showing the world what they can really do is a sight to see.”

Enos Olik, 28, is an extremely talented video director and his work speaks for itself. He started out as a musician, then photographer until he discovered his love for music video production.

His outstanding work has won him a couple of awards and has worked with celebrities like Sauti Sol, Redsan, Abbass Kubaff and Timmy T Dat among others. He recently won a big deal to produce TV Show “The Search’ debut season that aired on Kiss TV.

Stella Nderitu “Youth should choose their leaders decisively based on progressive agenda and those who spearhead young people’s interests.”

Stella Nderitu, 23, is a Programmes Officer at Emerging Leaders Foundation and co-founder of DadaPower.

DadaPower is a Community Initiative that aims at empowering teenage girls in rural public schools on matters of self-esteem, sexuality and education. With the initiative, she has reached out to hundreds of student with an ultimate plan for raising strong women leaders that will be dedicated in driving development at grass-root levels. The same can be said of Emerging Leaders Foundation (ELF) which has a mandate to develop the youth in areas of leadership and governance through training, mentorship and coaching. ELF launched ‘Mnaweza’ in 2017 to inspire young people to take part in current affairs and championing for peace.

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Letters Nthiga’s passion for theatre and film I read an article in the July 2017 edition of StartUp Magazine on Mugambi Nthiga’s passion for theatre and film. I was inspired to know him as the article touched on his persona and what motivated him to take his acting skills seriously. I now understand that for one to achieve greatness in any field you must show commitment and interest in what you do. Personally I consider him one of the greatest creatives and he will always be an inspirations. Cheers!

Eugene Kaleka, upcoming actor

Meet your customers on their preferred mobile platform.

TransUnion has introduced its innovative, world-first mobile lending solution to the Kenyan market.

Women in leadership Sylvester Okumu was spot on about Nadja BellanWhite breaking the glass ceiling. The article was succinct and frank on her responsibilities as a women leader and how she has shaped the world of branding and advertising in the continent. Kudos for the good work!

Key benefits Mobile loan scores are available with TransUnion's mobile products on our web service and in batch

Donald Kogai, Twitter @Donkogai

Reduce lending risk without affecting customer experience, contributing to improved customer retention

Confidently extend mobile loans to a larger audience and significantly improve your bottom line

Enable consistent, automated loan-granting decisions aligned with your internal credit policies

Meet customers on their platform of choice without exposing your business to increased lending risk

Amazing print quality I like StartUp Magazine quality and its content. The print copy looks amazing and the business content is so relevant, especially to young entrepreneurs and management executives. I am happy to be part of the content development team where I share everything human capital in my monthly column.

Perminus Wainaina, Managing Partner, Corporate Staffing Services

Enquire today For more information on this product, email us at ke_corporate@transunion.com December 2017 I startupmagazine.co.ke

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8

In The Loop

Aga Khan University fete at Maktaba Awards carrels and leisure reading spaces and dedicated areas where individuals can hold discussions, or study privately.

In his report to the Aga Khan University, the assessment judge Professor Constantine Nyamboga commented, “This is to inform you that your library is unique and a rare facility in the country. Besides, its collections both electronic and print, the development and establishment of the digital media makes it an information centre with a difference”

Aga Khan University emerged second in the academic libraries category of the eighth Library of the Year Award (Maktaba Award) that was organized and sponsored by the Kenya Library Association, the Goethe-Institute, the Jomo Kenyatta Foundation and the Ministry of Sports, Culture and the Arts.

The University won Shs 35,000 worth of books and cash from Jomo Kenyatta

Foundation, 200 books from Book Aid International, a trophy and a certificate.

The judges stated that the management aggressively markets the library services and activities to ensure the facility is seen as central in the overall goals of the Aga Khan University. The facility uses modern technologies to serve its customers and its environment is welcoming, well-lit and spacious. In addition it has sufficient

Tuskys commences Nakumatt restocking

Peter Gatiti, Regional Librarian, Aga Khan University East Africa, said, “This win would not have been possible without the collective efforts from all of our library staff. They worked tirelessly to compile an award winning profile and took the judges through our range of services which impressed the panel. This win has confirmed the fact that the quality of library services is more important than the physical size.

We are committed to providing an even better service!

Tuskys has confirmed plans to aid the recovery of Nakumatt Holdings through a strategic restocking programme.

The programme which will be undertaken progressively, is mutually exclusive of the ongoing legal processes and is aimed at providing a life support platform for Nakumatt ahead of a proposed corporate merger; subject to regulatory approvals.

Speaking when he confirmed the restocking programme kick off, Tusker Mattresses CEO Dan Githua, described the initiative as a strategic corporate nursing exercise.

Nakumatt workers arranging stocks at Nakumatt Village

Startupmagazine.co.ke I December 2017

The restocking programme he said, is being undertaken in conjunction with leading retail suppliers as part of a mutual commitment to support Nakumatt’s recovery.

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring

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Risk Information Solutions

In a fast-growing digital economy, businesses need to find new ways to remain relevant in a competitive credit market. Billy Owino, CEO for TransUnion Kenya talks to Okumu Sylvester about the organisation’s recently launched Mobile Loan Scorecard that offers Risk Information Solutions to businesses.

TransUnion -Optimising Competitive Advantages for Businesses Through Specialised Risk Information Solutions TransUnion (TU), a global leader in information and risk management gathersanalyses and deliver information for consumers and businesses to help them maintain a competitive edge.

With its headquarters in the United States, TransUnion is operational in more than 30countries worldwide including a large presence in Africa. In Kenya, the firm is headed by Billy Owino who serves as the Country Executive. In a lengthy engagement with StartUp Magazine team in his office recently, Owino discusses how TransUnion creates an economic and competitive edge for customers and businesses through specialised risk information solutions.

A youthful and charming executive, Mr. Owino is passionate about data analytics and credit in Africa, and articulately elaborates what he envisions for TU’s regional unit.

“We are a tech firm that helps businesses manage risk, improve efficiency, reduce costs and optimise their potential through risk based solutions via a renowned Mobile Loan Scorecard,” he begins.

TransUnion Mobile Loan Scorecard Invention& Relevance “With Africa having one of the highest mobile penetration rates and Kenya leading

Startupmagazine.co.ke I December 2017

at 39 million subscribers, an equivalent of 88 per cent of the population, it is no doubt that mobile devices have become an integral component in our lives. Mobile today defines customer engagement across many fronts. As such, if early adopters take this advantage, they can strengthen consumers’ interactions and set themselves ahead of the pack,” explains Mr. Owino.

Explaining further, Mr. Owino argues that there are more registered mobile money users in Sub-Saharan Africa than the rest of the world with 5 million customers in Kenya alone having a mobile loan. Due to the vibrancy of the Finance-Technology (Fin-Tech) industry disrupting the status quo, more Kenyans now access financial services on mobile phones compared to traditional financing channels.

“The mobile loan market is moving fast, and if you want your business to remain relevant, you must move with it,” asserts Mr. Owino.

Because the ability to make fast, consistent credit decisions is vital for any individual or business, the mobile loan access gives that competitive advantage. A good example being of a ‘mama mboga’- Street, vegetable vendor in Nairobi who wants fast and secure access to mobile loans.

More often, the vegetable vendor takes on

a loan via a mobile device to buy stock in the morning and repay in the evening, all within a span of 24 hours.

We also have bigger population of Kenyans who are borrowing via mobile phones and don’t have traditional bank accounts. As a lender, it becomes integral to understand the needs of these consumers and provide loans quickly and efficiently without putting their own business at risk. Hence, the introduction of TransUnion’s Scorecard.

“While it is true one way or another people are going to get loans, too often this happens at a high cost to the customer thus credit providers must step in to ensure that customers take loans responsibly and safely,” reiterates Mr. Owino in one of his writings on TransUnion’s website.

TransUnion basically creates enabling environments for current and future generations of local entrepreneurs and businesses whose enterprising spirit jerks our economies by helping them get access to the resources they need, safely and quickly, to further their businesses.

How the scorecard works Using their mobile devices, consumers send the lending institution minimal information, such as their name and identity number. The Scorecard then quickly deliv-

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring

ers a recommended outcome of—Approve, Decline or Refer—based on the lender’s internal credit policies and an accurate assessment of credit risk.

Information being an empowering tool rather than just numbers and data, Mr. Owino says the Mobile Loan Scorecard uses the most complete, multi-dimensional information available to help businesses extend the right credit, to the right people, on the correct terms. By doing so, the efforts become part of a nationwide initiative instrumental in cleaning up the mobile lending industry by working together for the good of the people.

“Individuals need to regularly check their creditworthiness so that they know where they stand and encourage them to utilise the once-a-year free credit report,” adds the jovial director.

“There is a lot of information about an individual that is never captured, but is vital in credit decision making, like credit reports by shopkeepers and other informal lenders.”

Emerging trends Despite credit information sharing having a negative perception in the minds of consumers, the industry has massive potential for growth. In his own opinion, the Director says that the credit information sharing industry in Kenya is only a shadow of its great potential.

“We ought to be in a place where individuals are rewarded based on their risk levels.

Credit Information Sharing still produces negative reactions in many consumers by the mere mention of the word ‘listing.’ We are trying to change this through educational initiatives about the need for credit scoring.”

Credit information sharing is good for the people, businesses and the economy at large and according to Mr. Owino, capping of the interest rates offered by banks by the Central Bank of Kenya has had an adverse effect on credit provision. As a result,

Billy Owino, CEO, TransUnion Kenya banks are now using more stringent ways to assess risk for one to access credit. Now credit access by SMEs has dropped by a whopping 30 per cent while personal loans by 15 per cent.

Compared to 12 per cent for traditional loans, delinquency rate for mobile loans is much lower with the market rates at 4 per cent.

This in a way has forced banks to get out of their comfort zones, be innovative and offer customised solutions.

Moving forward There is a lot of information about an

individual that is never captured, but is vital in credit decision making, like credit reports by shopkeepers and other informal lenders.

Owino says, “We are looking forward to ways of tapping alternative data which is going to be a big decision-making tool in the future.”

“We want to crack the agricultural sector and optimise its potential. Agriculture contributes massively to Kenya’s GDP to nearly 70 per cent, but it is extremely underserved in terms of credit provision.

Credit access to the sector still stagnates at 2 per cent which is very unfortunate,” he concludes.

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Woman Of Power

Lheritier organic skin care; shaping your healthy living experience Francisca Ochieng took early retirement from her corporate career to setup Lheritier organic skin care company. She narrates to StartUp her journey. Ms. Ochieng’ talks about her love for organic products, overriding passion for entrepreneurship and living a healthy lifestyle. words, Okumu Sylvester

I am a Kenyan entrepreneur bred in the United States. I hold a post graduate degree in Investment Management from CASS Business School at University of London and an undergraduate degree in Finance from University of Massachusetts. My final specialization under the Investment Management program while at CASS Business School was in Energy and Weather Derivatives. I truly thought of becoming a pioneering African woman in this field as a derivatives trader. However, I weighed the work-life balance needs that employers in Wall Street typically required and at the time I was not ready to commit to 14-hour work days.

I came to Kenya three years ago and joined a leading global consultancy firm as a management consultant, doing strategy and advisory work. After two and half years I decided to retire from corporate consultancy and pursue my passion for entrepreneurship.

I drew inspiration to set up my own firm and create dynamic products that people can enjoy and earn a living as well.

I opted for early retirement to setup a personal care company envisioned to create solution-based quality products that complement the skins of my customers.

The African man has previously been stereotyped for not taking care of his skin. However, the current generation of men want to take care of their beards, smell good and have a glowing skin. Women also want products that take care of their whole being, and something they can personally identify with; that need in the market informed me to come up with organic skin care products that are gender neutral.

Startupmagazine.co.ke I December 2017

Francisca Ochieng, CEO and Founder Lheritier 1789 Skincare

The additives and preservatives used in our organic products are non-toxic and non-carcinogenic as per EWG’s guidelines.

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring Lheritier Skincare is an organic skincare company based in Kenya. Lheritier Skincare makes products that cater for all skin-related needs like bikini bumps, dry skin, razor bumps, cracked heels, hair growth and more. Our products are for men, women, families, and hospitality clients.

Most ingredients used by Lheritier Skincare products are sourced locally among African producers.

At Lheritier Skincare, we use essential oils to make hair conditioners, face cream, body lotion, face toner, soaps, massage oils, masseuse scrubs, and body butter. We also take pride for being the first Kenyan company to make a fine, long-lasting unisex fragrance within the environs of Nairobi. In order to compete with well-renowned international legacy brands, we use exotic plant extracts like Osmanthus and Sandalwood to develop our fine fragrance.

The additives and preservatives used in our organic products are non-toxic and non-carcinogenic as per EWG’s guidelines.

Lessons learnt in my entrepreneurship journey so far?

There are a lot of intricacies in running a business.

On a grand scale of things, we look like an economy that is very supportive to local enterprises, but the reality is stark. The state offers little support to locally owned businesses.

Most of the additives I use in my products are imported. The importation is quite expensive involving a lot of bureaucracies and bottlenecks. This by implication is that, before you start, the cost has surpassed the production red flags. It is much easier to set up DIY kind of business in the US than here in Kenya.

How did I go about raising capital?

Raising capital in Kenya is not easy. Interest rates are high compared to other geographies. I have never opted for debt funding but sourced funds from my own savings and got a majority of support from my loved ones, whom I am ever grateful for.

My younger sister acts as the vice president of the company. She is an Ivy-League educated engineer based in the US but supports the business on a fulltime basis.

ness can be difficult but a good way to create value and enjoy your sweat.

My healthy living blog Lheritier Skincare’s mission is to educate our clients on the benefits of healthy living. I setup a wonderful blog to this effect where I regularly share free tried-and-tested recipes, tips and knowledge on natural wellness. Our free, no-obligation blog can be accessed any time through the link: http://www.lheritierblog.com.

We have a separate corporate website and an optimised ecommerce platform for our skincare and fragrance products at http://www.lheritier1789.com where one can get our organic products.

What keeps me going?

When I left the corporate job I spent the remainder of 2016 discovering my purpose. Reflection and spiritual meditation gave me a positive mind-set. For instance when I call a supplier and he turns me down because I am a small business, I don’t freak out. That is a common thing in business, particularly for SMEs. Instead I look at the plethora of options I have and capitalise on them.

My father and my late mum also inspired me greatly. I learnt invaluable lessons from them. I have to say it is an added advantage to come from a family where the family patriarch, my grandfather was a feminist. As a result, his wonderful supportive spirit runs through my father and brother.

The responsibilities bestowed upon my shoulders as a first born also keeps me going.

Going forward I am a Mandela Washington Fellowship and Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) mentor. This is my second year of being a mentor and I have been fortunate to inspire young African leaders from Congo and Ethiopia.

I look forward to build a comprehensive global organic skin care brand. I am also at the tail-end process of developing a comprehensive online marketplace for natural products and groceries called favaherb.com. It will offer tailored shopping experience to anyone who wants to shop for all kinds of natural and or organic product, including raw material made in Kenya and East Africa.

Sample of Lheritier products

If an entrepreneur opts for debt funding, I advise him/her to source within family members. It would be easier to free up some shares to them without a hassle, if need be. It can also protect your business interests by limiting ownership to the family.

External investors can be a good source of funding but risks diluting your original vision. They have their own interests and you might be forced to align your business to suite that. Bootstrapping a busiDecember 2017 I startupmagazine.co.ke

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My Hustle

Mr. Kinyanjui, a trained accountant worked as a financial officer for a telco for years before passion drove him to quit

Edward Kinyanjui

Edward Kinyanjui, a former accountant, founder and Managing Director of Plexus Energy talks of how he quit employment to follow his passion and the journey to finding a footing in clean energy solutions.

I Quit Employment to Pursue Passion in Renewable Energy Solution words, Oroni Tendera Mr. Kinyanjui, a trained accountant worked as a financial officer for a telco for years before passion drove him to quit. Despite being an accountant, he observes that the firm highly relied on power from the national grid but it wasn’t consistent. As a remedy, the firm outsourced alternative power solutions. Deep down, he knew the solution was with renewable energy.

“I saw this as an opportunity to tap on. While in employment I constantly dreamt of venturing out to run my own entity. Clean energy solutions was my biggest bet. Besides, I was not an accountant by choice. The profession limited my interactions with people which I fancy,” he narrates.

With a savings of about Kshs 10 million, he resigned in 2010 to set up Plexus Energy.

Plexus provides renewable energy resources like solar power that generate electricity with little or no pollution and global warming emissions.

Mr. Kinjanjui has singlehandedly established his company from scratch to a massive empire supplying clean energy solutions to hundreds of Kenyans in a span of seven years.

“We provide clean energy solutions and supply solar Startupmagazine.co.ke I December 2017

power backups, solar water heaters, streetlights and water pumps,” he says.

The former accountant affirms that there is great demand for clean energy solutions that will continue to grow as the population grows. “Currently, only 4 million households are connected to the national grid; A relatively low figure as compared to the over 25 million Kenyans who do not have access to reliable power.”

Plexus Energy provides clean energy solutions to anyone who is in need of affordable and reliable power.

The solutions are customized based on client’s needs.

The firm designs the solutions which are manufactured abroad and imported into Kenya.

He commends the government for creating conducive environment for players to operate. “It is mandatory for new residential building to have solar heating.

The real estate is booming, so that is good business for us. Besides, the government has exempted solar products from duty and VAT to promote the industry.

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We provide Professional Services in General Building Construction, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical and Telecommunication Engineering • • • •

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General Building and Construction Works Civil Engineering Works – Construction Mechanical Engineering Works Air-conditioning and Mechanical Ventilation General Electrical Engineering Works:> Sub-station Erection and Commissioning > Construction of HV &LV OH & UG power transmission and distribution systems > Power Support & Maintenance of Base Transceiver Stations (BTSs), Base Station Controllers (BSCs) & Main Switch Rooms (MSRs) > Electrical Installation Works for Industrial, Commercial and Residential buildings > Airfield lighting and power installation to Control and Navigation Facilities. > Installation of Solar and Wind Power Systems > CCTV, Access Control & Fire Alarm Installations Telecommunication Works:> Structured Cabling & Networking (LAN/WAN) and Telephony > Installation of All Dielectric Self Supporting (ADSS) Fiber, Hybrid Fiber Cable (HFC) & Gigabitcapable Passive Optical Network (GPON)

We are proud to be associated with Safaricom and their much celebrated M-pesa service Industrial Area Off, Mombasa Road. P.O BOX 61152 00200 Nairobi TEL: +254 (020) 2433595/6 +254 (0) 722 209 634 or +254 (0) 735 337 767 E-mail: info@philafe.co.ke Http//: www.philafe.co.ke December 2017 I startupmagazine.co.ke

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My Hustle

We provide clean energy solutions to anyone who is in need of affordable and reliable power

The government move to further allocate Kshs 5 billion in the current budget for renewable energy will no doubt help people in the marginalized areas to have access to clean energy.”

permanent staff which can at time rise to 50 temporary staff in case of a big contract.

With Plexus, Mr. Kinjanjui plans to employ hundreds of people in the coming years and venture regionally. Plans to start assembling some of the products locally is being worked on so that they can diversify and sell to resellers as well.

Competitive edge “Being a new industry, we have a lot of new entrance. Many players have flooded the market selling almost similar products. So we have to look at ways which we can differentiate ourselves. Our customer service is exceptional and the fact that we have gotten nearly 70 per cent of our new businesses from referrals is a testament to this, stresses the optimistic Managing Director.

“I want to encourage young people to take renewable energy as a serious career because it is going to be a big industry in the future. It is also hard to find local green energy expertise because until recently, it wasn’t incorporated in our curriculum as a profession,” he reveals.

“In addition, we continuously research and train our staff on emerging trends in this line of business so that we can continue to be better and relevant.”

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One of the bottlenecks that hinder the growth of SMEs, he says is limited access to capital. This is a constant dilemma especially when he gets big contracts. “Sometimes we are forced to look for funding outside the country. It is difficult to understand how I could get an unsecured loan of Khs 5 million as a salaried employee back then than when running a business. Yet I am better placed to repay the loan right now than then,” he laments.

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CMY

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“We also have high credit delinquencies among our customers. A number of them do not pay on time and we have previously had to write off bad debts. Is this a clear indication of the current economic times?

I don’t know but it is injurious,” comments the entrepreneur.

He also points to the increasing competition by big foreign players setting up base in the country. “It is hard to compete with them based on their financial muscles.

They also enjoy big economies of scale ending up to dictate pricing.”

Going forward Plexus current employees encompass 20

Startupmagazine.co.ke I December 2017

Some of Plexus Energy staff

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Tech

With proven record as a robust network in global electronic payments technology, the sky is the lower limit for MasterCard as they take lead on matters cashless transactions.

MASTERCARD; A World Beyond Cash

words, Okumu Sylvester

Much of the world's population does not have access to a bank account or any other reliable way to store and access their money. As such, they are reliant on hard cash and all the perils that come with handling it. Financial inclusion though comes with the idea that everyone deserves the tools to participate in a growing economy. Whether that means a mobile payment system or a secure ID card, financial inclusion becomes critical in empowering individuals across the globe.

Marked as one of the leading global payments technology firm, Mastercard has remained true to the philosophy of inclusion and empowering people towards a cashless world. As the Vice President and Area Business Head at MasterCard, Chris Bwakira explains, MasterCard has been able to build custom-made innovative tools both globally and locally.

He says, “With massive presence of MasterCard in many countries, we have been able to provide solutions that are built to better the lives of people and businesses and in essence add value to the economy.�

He adds that the quality of their partnerships demonstrated in markets such as Rwanda in partnership with the government to digitize payments in health care, education and pensions is just but an example of how determined they are to propel cashless systems.

Chris Bwakira, Vice President at MasterCard Sub-Saharan Africa

Startupmagazine.co.ke I December 2017

In Kenya, MasterCard has partnered with merchant aggregator Kopo Kopo reaching

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring numerous markets in Africa. “This partnership enables us to serve not only people in urban areas but communities in rural areas as well, and has given us the opportunity to widely roll-out Masterpass QR to merchants,” states Bwakira.

Equally, the team has gathered vast experience over the years on digital payments and seen first-hand how going digital can transform the way people transact and do business on a daily basis. “It is amazing just how quick business people can make transactions with a simple card. The final facet in our strategic operations now is capitalizing our ability to localize global services; a world where merchants can carry out transactions wherever they are in the world,” says Bwakira.

Financial Inclusion As part of its commitment to creating a world beyond cash through more connected and inclusive payment ecosystems, MasterCard focuses on delivering real solutions that make a noticeable and immediate impact.

Masterpass QR – the organisation’s mobile-driven, Personto-Merchant (P2M) payment solution – has certainly lived up to that ideal. The system continues to gain impetus across Africa both in terms of allowing millions of micro, small and medium enterprises to accept quick and secure payments and in allowing customers to make simple and safe payments via mobile app.

First launched in 2016, the solution has since been rolled out to a number of markets across Africa. Most notably have been Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda and Ghana with various partners. One key strategic partnership in Africa making great strides is with Ecobank; an agreement that will ultimately result in Masterpass QR being rolled-out in 33 countries across Africa. These efforts form a core part of Mastercard’s strategy to develop more efficient payment systems that empower business owners and consumers.

Bwakira says, “Business owners, particularly of MSMEs benefit from using Masterpass QR. They no longer have to worry about the historic challenges of acceptance of electronic payments or the exorbitant cost of installing payment infrastructure like point-of-sale devices. By driving acceptance for merchants, Masterpass QR facilitates operational efficiencies for MSMEs, which are the backbone of emerging market economies.”

Security MasterCard strives to deliver efficient, cost effective and above all secure solution for merchants across Africa.

This is an essential step to providing the level of support required to grow and develop businesses.

With cybercrime on the rise, MasterCard is alert to the reality of criminals stealing information from merchants to commit financial fraud. With the companies’ deep rooted history of investing in and innovating across multiple layers of technology – like EMV, tokenisation, physical and be-

havioral biometrics and artificial intelligence – businesses and merchants can rest assured that their cash is safe.

“Securing the digital payment ecosystem is a big focus for us at Mastercard, and our aim is to deploy solutions that will keep consumers feeling safe, adding to the existing prevention, detection and identity tools already in place,” pinpoints Bwakira.

Mastercard’s latest initiative in the digital security space is a predictive tool to combat card fraud after data breaches – it is aimed at reducing the cost of fraud and protecting at-risk cardholders.

Innovation Buoying Mastercard’s commitment to customer safety is the dedication to constant innovation at the company. Early this year, the company launched a digital platform dubbed 2Kuze that connects smallholder farmers with agents, buyers and banks in East Africa.

2Kuze, a Swahili word which means ‘let’s grow together’ enables farmers to make and receive payments for agricultural goods via their feature phones; a move that brings the benefit and security of mobile commerce and payments to farmers in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania.

“We are committed to developing marketrelevant payment solutions that enhance the adoption of cashless transactions by building solid partnerships.” pany’s global know-how.

Developed at the Mastercard Lab for Financial Inclusion in 2015, 2Kuze was set up to develop practical, cost-effective financial tools that expand access and build stable futures for over 100 million people globally. Through a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Lab is working with East African entrepreneurs, governments and other stakeholders to develop local products rooted in the com-

“We believe that by using mobile, a technology that is universal among farmers in Africa, we can improve financial access, bring in operational efficiency and facilitate faster payments. We created 2Kuze in our Lab in close collaboration with farmers, representatives from the government, farmer-led cooperatives and buying organisations,” says Bwakira.

“We are committed to developing market-relevant payment solutions that enhance the adoption of cashless transactions by building solid partnerships.”

In summary Central to the ethos of Mastercard is connecting with local communities in a meaningful manner to help support them.

Through its very own slogan ‘a world beyond cash’, Mastercard is advancing social sustainability by giving people around the world greater access to the financial system.

“We believe that how we do business is as important as what we achieve. We care about the communities in which we live, work and conduct business,” concludes Bwakira.

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Housing

Because of the short time it takes to put up the structure you can save 10-15 percent of the labor cost.

Build Your Dream House in Only 21 Days with Koto Housing Koto Housing; a local construction firm that uses Koto technology (prefabricated building technology) from Malaysia to build affordable housing for Kenyans within a short time than traditional housing is the sure bridge to your dream home.

The only franchise of the prefabricated technology in Africa, the growing inquiries about the solution from the rest of the continent is something Koto Housing prides itself of.

“This is a true confirmation that Koto has revolutionized the housing solution,” says Beth Kimani, Head of Corporate and Business Support at Koto Housing Kenya.

“Our directors felt that there was need to fill the gap for affordable housing locally and that in essence informed our decision to go and borrow a leaf on this technology from Malaysia,” she explains.

How Does Koto Work?

Koto cleverly executes a quick built solution of permanent structure within the shortest time possible.

A house construction projects starts like a traditional building but since the wall panels are light, the foundation is not dug several meters deep as is normally the case with traditional construction.

“We use raft foundation (where the house rests on a

Startupmagazine.co.ke I December 2017

large base-raft), which prevents the house from cracking due to shifting of the ground,” explains the Business Support Manager.

“Speed is our biggest selling point.”

For instance a three bedroomed house can be done in 21 days with a standard bungalow taking up to a month, from foundation to the actual furnishing.

For the time that they have been operational here in Kenya, they have realized that many clients prefer them to supply the building panels as well as do the actual construction. “This is because of our understanding of the technology and our expertise. As such we use local manpower for construction. We also train contractors about the technology and they usually come in handy when in need of extra manpower during construction” emphasizes Kimani.

Despite the head office being in Mlolongo area of Machakos County, they have been able to build residential houses even in the countryside. Should a client need a house constructed in a certain locality, explains Kimani, the firm uses its local contractor in that county. “We then send our project manager to oversee the construction.”

In as much as Koto housing sounds as new revolution in the housing altogether, the concept is not a new technology. It is only new in Africa. Malaysia has been using Koto since 1975 and is equally extensively used in Europe because of its insulation capability in extreme cold countries.

With only four companies in Kenya using technology, Koto solely relies on importation of raw materials and focus on manufacture final product here.

Target market “Kenyans are very sentimental about home ownership. It’s like everybody wants to own a home. That means that we target everybody,” she states.

Despite the desire to own a home, as is with new things and need to change attitudes to gain acceptance, the uptake of housing revolution is slow due to perception of the people. “We are still trying to break into the market and convince people that Koto can work amazingly,” she points.

The firm however received a major boost when it was contracted by the government to put up 200 housing units for the police. With that, both home owners and developers started believing in the solutions.

A

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring

A house made from Koto Technology

“Traditionally, it takes three months to build a house, while it only takes one month with Koto technology. With that you can cut cost on the wages for the two months labor because you won’t have to double the manpower to do the construction in one month.”

Koto wall panels

The government is the biggest spender and biggest influencer.

Once people see government embracing something it gives it credibility.

“We did 200 housing units for the police in a record six months” points Kimani.

The construction panels which come in different sizes can be cut to fit. “But we discourage that to minimize on the wastage. When a client has his own design we try to rationalize it and work with the panel sizes. Our panels are sized at 1.8m and 1.2m. You simply put one on top of the other and they interlock,” she comments.

As it stands, it is easy product to use and fit nearly any design except round walls which the firm trying to figure out.

Save cost The solution is comparatively lower to traditional housing due to shorter time it takes to put up the structure and sees one saving 10-15 percent of the labor cost. “Traditionally, it takes three months to build a house, while it only takes one month with Koto technology. With that you can cut cost on the wages for the two months labor because you won’t have to double the manpower to do the construction in one month.”

The cost of finishes like the tiles, roofing, paints however still the same is for the panels supplied are only for the walls.

Exciting offers “We have exciting home package offers for our clients with Silver being our cheapest range. A normal two bedroomed house is at approximately Kshs 1.9 million for people who want a simple house.”

Future Prospects “We will continue creating awareness and looking for support from stakeholders to break the perception barrier. Breaking the perception barrier is important for our desire to revolutionize housing.

We plan to be here for a very long time.

December 2017 I startupmagazine.co.ke

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Mortgage

WHY CREDIT UPTAKE HAS BEEN SLOW ON MORTGAGE DESPITE INTEREST RATE CAPPING

By Martin Dias CEO, FAPCL Group It is the dream of everyone to own a home.

This quest to live freely and in your own space motivates many to venture into this journey. However, only a few manage to cross the finish line while many fall by the way.

The journey to owning a home is never easy and is indeed a long one. People exhibiting discipline, commitment and consistency probably have a higher success rate.

Another key factor is prioritizing and simply managing time. All monies earned must be accounted for as well as managing a good financial plan.

One could take the route of a bank mortgage towards owning a home. A mortgage is an agreement that allows a borrower to use property as collateral to secure a loan. People hardly make a one hundred percent contribution towards purchasing a home. In most instances they are able to raise about twenty to thirty percent equity from their savings and have to look up to the bank for the balance by taking a home mortgage.

Traditionally, home mortgages has been Startupmagazine.co.ke I December 2017

big business for banks. It is one of the most secured product offered to home buyers.

One will remember the best deals came from the large size banks namely Kenya Commercial Bank, Standard Chartered Bank and Barclays Bank. Stanbic Bank also offered very competitive interest rates. The pricing ranged between 10.5 % and 13%.

The challenges dropped in when interest capping came into play. It begun by setting all interest rates at 14% presently and left banks with no choice but to accordingly adjust their rates.

Overall it looked like it was a good thing to have the average interest rates drop from 18% to 14% but then it did not benefit home buyers who had existing mortgages.

New mortgage takers were also reluctant to respond to the increased interest rates hence reducing the numbers substantially.

As consumers, we also need to understand how banks add their numbers to determine their interest rates against their products. It is a process known as

pricing commonly referred as banks gross income. Bank income is derived from interest on borrowings and commissions earned from various services offered.

Bank products are categorized in line with risk rating and the higher the risk factor the higher the interest priced. For example, unsecured personal loans offered to individuals used to attract between 20% and 25%. Credit cards attracted interest rates of 3 % per month on late payments. Normal overdrafts and loans use to attract 15% to 18%. Hire Purchase on vehicles use to attract 15% to 18%.

As we have observed a sluggish growth in the financial sector in the last two years, we must acknowledge that interest capping has been a deterrent to the economy. We need to collectively progress through the various stakeholders involved to restore a free market situation and allow banks to operate with a fair pricing.

This will take mortgages back to the interest rates offered previously and create an appetite for more mortagage takers.

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24

Cover Story

KENBRIGHT Navigating risk and regulatory complexity With Rich History With its wide scope knowledge of the local financial services, in-depth expertise and understanding of the global financial landscape, Kenbright has introduced an advisory wing to offer unique consultancy to firms in the region words, Okumu Sylvester

Sammy Makove, the current head of Regulatory Affairs and Advisory division at Kenbright Actuarial and Financial Services has become synonymous with the insurance industry.

He is a founder member of Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA); an independent body outside the controlling arms of the National Treasury to regulate the industry. Mr Makove has been at the helm of the authority since its inception eight years ago; a position he held until his retirement in February 2017.

In an interview with the StartUp, Mr Makove shares his rich experience in the industry since 1987 and why he is now better placed to further the development of the insurance and financial sector.

With a notable career in the financial sector, Mr Makove was honoured by the President of Kenya with Moran of Burning Spear (MBS) recognition.

He heads a division that offers unique consultancy service; the first in East and Central Africa due to its focus on Regulatory Advisory with an actuarial and risk component for the financial sector.

Startupmagazine.co.ke I December 2017

“I am arguably the longest serving insurance regulator in the region. After my term expired in the government, I decided to use my rich experience and knowledge of the industry to further develop it as a consultant,” says the executive.

After research, Mr Makove realised a gap and capitalised on it. The industry lacked experienced specialists who can advise the government and private sector on regulatory policies and good practices.

“Complex regulations are being rolled out every day,” he says, “that means many regulatory changes are coming, not only in Kenya but Africa as a whole.”

The end result of this is too many requirements for organizations to comply with.

“I have been asked by many countries and organizations like World Bank to share my experiences and knowledge. With my new role at Kenbright, I envision being better placed to achieve that,” says Mr. Makove.

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring

Sammy Makove, head of Regulatory Affairs and Advisory division at Kenbright

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Cover Story

According to Ernest & Young 2016 report on the sector, Kenya has a robust regulatory system compared to its peers in the region. It is rated second in Africa after South Africa for its elaborate inter-regulatory frameworks.

Focus

With its wide scope knowledge of the local financial services, in-depth expertise and understanding of the global financial landscape, Kenbright introduced the advisory wing to offer unique consultancy to firms in the region.

With customer access as its priority, their office is strategically located within Nairobi city in Upper Hill. Having a resourceful and credible team is key. As such, the inclusion of Holly Bakke, an international advisor, and former insurance commissioner of Banking and Insurance for the US State of New Jersey to the team will buoy the company operations.

According to Mr Makove, many firms do not have a regulatory strategy; they wait for a regulation to be effected before complying. He argues that the ‘wait and see’ attitude is expensive and might have a negative effect on the overall mandates of the firm.

“A prudent institution ought to know that regulations are constantly changing and becoming more complex. Rather than waiting for the chase, it is prudent to prepare beforehand,” he advises.

Mr. Makove urges companies to stay ahead of time by implementing the necessary regulatory requirements promptly.

“From where we stand, we have vantage knowledge of the regulatory affairs, both local and international,” he states.

With such information, they are able to advise clients accordingly and help them implement strategies in good time.

“It is unfortunate that many companies which were solvent last year are now capital inadequate and struggling. The introduction of risk based capital requirement in Kenya changed the ballgame. These companies are now trying to restructure in order to remain in business. We have the technical ability to analyse such complexity and advise accordingly,” adds the executive.

Kenbright also aims to extend these functions and advise African governments on good regulatory laws, financial policies and best practices. It is critical to have policies that are realistic and internationally accepted, he notes.

Corporate governance Many companies have failed in Kenya due to poor corporate governance says the insurance guru. “During my stint at IRA, we introduced a regulation clause which ensures that directors of all insurance companies are certified, and continuously undergo corporate training,” adding that, “At Kenbright, we train clients on corporate governance to advance sustainability of their firms.”

Startupmagazine.co.ke I December 2017

The impact of technology “Anybody who ignores technology has no reason to be in businesses. Technology is advancing very fast. It is clear that insurance and financial services cannot operate without tech intervention.”

In his opinion, Kenya leads the world in financial product engineering through tech intervention like M-Pesa and M-Akiba.

The executive calls for the insurance sector to borrow a leaf and see how existing and new markets can be reached through digital platforms.

He questions the challenges of not embracing technology. “Why should an insurance agent board a bus from Nairobi to Kitui to sell a product to a teacher? And how many teachers will he reach? We should adopt new ways of doing things. The current generation is IT savvy and most of the products they interact with are digitised.”

He further advises firms to understand the local market and is characteristics. “There is no need to borrow a product that has been a success somewhere and try to implement it here.

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring

Mr. Makove heads a division that offers unique consultancy service; the first in East and Central Africa due to its focus on Regulatory Advisory with an actuarial and risk component for the financial sector.

growth. He says, “If we have your data, we can know which kind of product you need.” Correct data helps analyse clients’ income levels, social life and even expenditure. As such, products can be tailor-made to meet client’s needs. With this information for instance, it becomes easy to define clients expected need. “Based on the age bracket, we can tell that a client has school going kids, as such an education policy would be a best bet, he pinpoints.”

It is such creative marketing that is critical in driving insurance penetration and inclusion.

SMEs

Kenbright’s advisory unit area of focus will be: • Mergers, Acquisitions & Company Split • Entry into New Markets • Corporate Governance & Training • Strategic Planning • Regulatory Policy & Strategy • Regulatory Compliance & Liaison

Small and medium enterprises are key drivers of our economy. They employ millions of people and contribute immensely to our GDP. However, they have been perennially excluded by the insurance sector.

“The inferno incident at Gikomba market for instance was unfortunate. The fire damaged properties worth millions of shillings. That shouldn’t happen. Such mess would have been mitigated by a simple insurance product, concludes” Mr. Makove.

With effective response, the businesses should have been restored to the initial position before the occurrence of the risk. A market niche Kenbright Advisory is keen about in terms of insurance inclusion of SME’s to aggregate them and sell insurance cover for their businesses.

Chances are that it might fail. M-pesa and M-Akiba are products of extensive research that is innovated every day, he asserts.

He acknowledges the impact of data analytics in driving insurance

December 2017 I startupmagazine.co.ke

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Russia’s RussianHospitality Hospitality

Understanding the hospitality market in RUSSIA, an interview with Andrey Yakunin Andrey Yakunin is the Co-Founding Partner of VIY Management LLP. StartUp spoke with Mr Yakunin to find out more about VIYMs view of the Russian hospitality market and the most promising investment opportunities currently available. words, Benchevents.com What are the major differences between running a hospitality business in Russia and abroad?

“I would suggest that there are more similarities in particular in terms of the evident lack of availability of financing on favourable LTV and performance bond terms, certain challenges in attracting top young talent to the hospitality industry as a long-term career option, and a general squeeze of operating margins as the economy goes through a rather sluggish phase of the cycle. However, bank financing terms remain much more favourable in Europe and general availability of credit is not under unneeded pressure from the regulator. In terms of hotel management, in Russia there are only a limited number of management schemes available, such as management contracts with operators or franchising agreements with own management. By comparison, in Europe, in addition to these routes, other options are widely available such as lease contracts, leasing plus franchising, and AGOP guarantees.

Obviously, the tax and duties policy when operating in Russia still also remains a pretty annoying issue as well as the visa requirements for leisure and business travelers.”

How would you describe your clients or investors from Russia over the past few years? Are they HNWIs, which regions do they focus on, what influences their investment decisions?

“I would venture to suggest that they seek exposure to the balanced risk/return profile between established European markets and fast-growing emerging opportunities in Russia, other CIS economies and the Baltic states, as well as diversification across private equity high-growth capital strategy for SMEs in consumer-driven industries, materials, high-tech and industrials. When looking to include low-risk hospitality real

Startupmagazine.co.ke I December 2017

estate investments they are more and more looking for mixeduse components to provide stable returns with value-added upside potential.”

You have sold a number of hotels in the Russian hospitality market. How does this fit with VIYM's overall strategy?

“In December 2016, we exited one of our projects in the Russiafocused part of our portfolio and closed a deal for the sale of a 100% stake in Regional Hotel Chain (RHC) to Vladimir Evtushenkov’s Sistema. The assets sold included Courtyard by Marriott Paveletskaya in Moscow, Holiday Inn Express in Voronezh and seven hotels run by Park Inn in Astrakhan, Izhevsk, Kazan, Novosibirsk, Sochi, Volgograd and Yaroslavl.

We still have a number of hotel assets in Russia. One example is the 5-star Four Seasons Hotel in St. Petersburg, which is one of the company's most iconic and unique projects. Also, works are currently in progress on the restoration of the historic former Nikolsky Market site in the heart of St. Petersburg. The completion of the project is planned for summer 2018 when a new multifunctional complex comprising mid-range and affordable hotel properties (a 3* hotel and a hostel) are due to open, operated under global hotel brands such as Holiday Inn Express and Meininger.”

Do you have plans to invest in alternative accommodation, such as serviced apartments? Do you believe this sector promises high returns?

“We are exploring the serviced apartments market for our hotel projects across Europe. Earlier this year, VIYM presented the Holsboer Residences apartment complex in Davos and Gloriettes Residences in Vienna at the Property Investor & Home-

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring

“Northern capital” has been recognised as Europe’s Leading Destination for a second year running by the World Travel Awards.

buyer Show 2017, a leading property exhibition held in London.”

ability of financing, it quickly becomes clear that today’s macroeconomic situation is rather difficult. Although the cost of building a three-star or a five-star hotel in the regions (or even in Moscow) is significantly lower than in comparable locations elsewhere in the world, the cost of loan financing practically negates this advantage. That means the resources you stand to save on construction when building a new hotel in essence just flow into another part of the budget, i.e. the financing costs. This situation is gradually improving and recently we have been able to attract debt financing for our Nikolskye Ryady project in St. Petersburg on relatively favourable terms from a leading Russian bank, but there a lot needs to be improved to make new developments more appealing to investors. At the same time, banks are not active in selling their underperforming hotel assets and, in our experience, offer these assets with only a slight discount on pre-crisis prices. Along with the gradual improvement in the debt financing terms, this trend prompts us to believe that banks are much more optimistic about the prospects for hotel segment growth than for the office market.“

What is your opinion on new project financing in Russia? It seems that banks have non-performing properties on their balance sheets, and are not keen on financing new hospitality projects.

“Unfortunately, if we look at the prospects for development of the Russian hotel industry in terms of avail-

One of the factors that should be taken into account is the increased tourist flow to St. Petersburg. Russia’s “Northern capital” has been recognised as Europe’s Leading Destination for a second year running by the World Travel Awards. We see an increase in tourist flow from North America, and naturally, great interest from Chinese and South-East Asian markets. Therefore, we believe the demand for hotel infrastructure will remain. We also see an increase in domestic tourism, which in turn has a positive impact on the development of the hotel industry in the regions.”

Andrey Yakunin, Co-Founding Partner VIY Management LLP

You have been investing in different hospitality assets in Russia and abroad, from hostels to upscale luxury hotels. When you make an investment, what locations and property types do you usually consider?

“The ones that you can reasonably expect to make above-average returns on. We try to source properties that are under-managed or under-capitalized, that have significant upside potential, larger footprints and scope for additional development such as residential components. This gives us the opportunity to apply our valueadded strategy and tailor-made approach to objects that are adjusted to particular markets and locations.”

What is your vision for the hospitality market in Russia over the next few years?

“We have been involved in the hotel industry in Russia for the past 15 years and, of course, we believe in its potential. The Olympic Games in Sochi and the 2018 World Cup to some extent stimulated a surge of interest in the industry, but from a professional investor point of view, we cannot simply rely on football or the Olympics.

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...the future In order to have a comprehensive development in the country we must ensure our environment is green. Green development simply means an environmentally sustainable building, designed, constructed and operated to minimize the total environmental impacts.

Walking around, one will notice concrete jungle almost everywhere. A good number of our compounds have no gardens and for that matter, any green. This is because many developers are more concerned with the buildings more than they are with the environment. Many residents have also forgotten about the significance of green.

Green developments come in different forms. Majority of us are conversant with green environment associated with retaining trees and other forms of plants. This type of green is significant to conserving the environment. Trees play a critical role in preventing soil erosion besides conserving water sources. Trees are also known to attract rain. A green environment is also known to promote fresh air.

Well maintained trees and flowers make a place attractive and beautiful.

It is worthwhile noting, green living has a lot of benefits. Environment incorporated with green elements are affordable; this is because they save on energy and water.

Another advantage of green building is that they are all structured and designed in a special way to achieve the well being

The world today is going green.

and comfort of its occupants. The same is also fashioned with special detectives meant to address thermal comfort, pollutants, natural daylight and ventilation. The green buildings are fitted with special forms of roofs such as atriums that allow sufficient natural light during the day. In addition, the buildings’ efficiency in resource use and the degree to which it generates power from alternative sources is guaranteed. One of the alternative sources includes solar panels which are installed on the roof tops.

Today, developers are therefore expected to retain trees, plant gardens either in the compound or even on the roof tops.

Again to conserve the energy, developers

In some countries green development is embraced in various ways, such as roof gardening (garden on top of a roof), while others still plant grass on their backyards.

With the vast development and technology however, the term green development has been expounded to include, clean energy and water conservation.

The modern green buildings are well strategized in order to achieve; reduce energy consumption, water conservation and waste recycling. Additionally, these buildings have been structured to save money and create healthier environments for people to live and work. This mode of construction advocate for advancement in all sectors.

Startupmagazine.co.ke I December 2017

A Roof Garden

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring

...the future In order to have a comprehensive development in the country we must ensure our environment is green. Green development simply means an environmentally sustainable building, designed, constructed and operated to minimize the total environmental impacts.

Walking around, one will notice concrete

It is worthwhile noting, green living has a

and comfort of its occupants. The same is

jungle almost everywhere.

A good number also withprojectin specialAfrican detectives lot of in benefits.

Environment incorporated “Garden City residential is the first Green Star rated project Kenya and in the East African region. It is also thefashioned first residential certified of our of compounds no gardens meant to address thermal comfort, pollutwith green elements are affordable; this is outside South Africa”have (The Business Daily,and The Edge, September 2017) for that matter, any green. This is because will be anticipated install solarconcerned panels in many developers toare more their properties. addition, theyare willwith be with the buildingsInmore than they required to avail water harvesting and the environment. Many residents have conservation order to provide also forgottentools aboutin the significance of enough green. water to their tenants and gardens.

Green developments come in different Apart the developers, key players in forms.from Majority of us are conversant with the realenvironment estate whichassociated is a criticalwith consumer green retainof resources as wellofasplants. significant ingphysical trees and other forms This spring unhealthy emissions will be type ofof green is significant to conserving required to contribute to athe goalrole of the environment.

Trees play critical creating an environmentally in preventing soil erosionsustainable besides future and be ablesources. to countTrees in preventing conserving water are also environmental degradation. known to attract rain. A green environment is also known to promote fresh air.

Other sectors too need embrace the Well maintained trees andtoflowers make a green movement. is because; they place attractive andThis beautiful. too contribute significantly to carbon In someemissions. countries green development is dioxide A report tabled down embraced in variousforum ways,indicates such as that, roof by world economic gardening (garden on topgreenhouse of a roof), while 20% of total global gas others still originate plant grassfrom on their backyards. emissions buildings.

In With the vast development andtotechnoloaddition, buildings are said have a gy however, the term green development significant and a growing impact on other has been expounded environmental aspects. to include, clean energy and water conservation.

This finding makes the goal of enThe modern green buildings vironment preservation critical inare orderwell strategized in order to achieve; reduce energy consumption, water conservation and waste recycling. Additionally, these buildings have been structured to save money and create healthier environments for people to live and work. This mode of construction advocate for advancement in all sectors.

because they save on energy and water. to exemplify a wider sense of stewardship for the natural environment. in Another advantage of green Investors building is these sectors need to become conversant that they are all structured and designed in and consistent thetheethical and a special way towith achieve well being professional conduct of business. They should work with clear business and economic foundation of embedding The world They need environmental sustainability. to recognize the urgency to avoid dangertoday is ous climate change and take part in promoting clean environment. going

green.

The Government on their part should engage all sector key players in firm-wide decisions; policies and strategies aimed to yield long-term cost reduction, protected or even enhanced values that will aid reduced environmental pollution.

One easy way of establishing environmental sustainability is by way of adopting green buildings. In Kenya, the green building initiative is new and in the initiating stage and so scores of developers are yet to adopt it. This therefore creates a dire need to promote and improve awareness of green building design practices, programs, technologies and operations for easy transformation.

ants, natural daylight and ventilation. The Environmental affects everygreen buildings degradation are fitted with special one. This calls for allas of atriums us to participate forms of roofs such that allowin the greennatural movement cleanthe energy. sufficient light for during day. We In must workthe towards achieving responsible addition, buildings’ efficiency in resource usemanagement green resource and the degreeand to which it buildings. power from alternative sources generates is guaranteed. One of the alternative We wantincludes to see more malls coming sources solargreen panels which are up. Shopping are known to offer the installed on theMalls roof tops. best mix of lifestyle retailers, luxury and specialty shops are in therefore an extraordinary Today, developers expectatmosphere.

This plant critical role either and the ed to retain trees, gardens in desire to haveor aeven clean the compound on environment the roof tops.is what to render green more attractive Again conserve themalls energy, developers and significant at the same time.

The world is going green. In years to come concrete jungle should be turned into a cool and friendly environment. Hence it is high time we begin to cultivate leafy compounds. Our environment, the world in which we live and work in is very critical and need to be taken good care of. Let’s therefore embrace green development and live healthy.

By Martin Dias CEO, FAPCL Group md@fapcl.com

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Human Capital

By Perminus Wainaina

Why Connecting with Your Employees is the Answer to Successful Leadership

Human relationships are based on the ability of one party to influence the actions of another. As a CEO or senior manager your position is one of great influence. To get things done you can rely on force or by co-opting people to see things your way or follow you. The thing with force is that people will only do the minimum and most time will deliver only when you are around.

I am sure you don’t want a scenario where staff work under close supervision.

Connecting with your staff is the answer to successful leadership. This is where the art of establishing and influencing relationships comes to play.

By seeking to understand your employees at a personal level, you can tap into their thought process, and use that information to align their desires with the company goals. This action will then lead to a highly productive workforce. This is because, just like customers and stakeholders, employees co-operate better when they feel understood, valued and cared about.

What does Connecting with Your Employees Entail?

As a leader, connecting with your employees does not mean sitting at their desks to talk weekend escapades. It also doesn’t mean inviting them for a drink at your local joint, or cracking jokes when you meet in the stairwell. No. It means getting to know your employees at a more emotional, physical and mental level.

Instead of only putting focus on the actual output of work done, make an effort to interact with your employees. This could be as easy as greeting an employee by their name, saying hello to the guard manning

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your office building, or taking a moment to ask an employee how they are faring.

It could also involve planning and participating in team building activities, insisting that your employees take full 1 hour-long lunch breaks, or holding outof-office meetings in an environment that demands constant interaction.

What is the Importance of Connecting with Employees?

Organisational benefits of connecting with your employees are far reaching. We could never tackle them in one single post. But nonetheless, here is why it is important to establish a connection with your employees.

1.To Improve Employee Morale & Increase Retention Rate There is a common myth that employees are only motivated by money. But this is very far from the truth. While money is definitely one of the motivators, it only appears at the bottom of the list.

Most employees prefer non-monetary ways of motivation, such as empowerment through added responsibilities, recognition for excellent work, occasional getaways, trainings and mentorship, and open communication, among others.

They need to feel that their leaders care about them. Change the wheel by incorporating other motivational tools beside money.

2.To Create a Work Environment that Attracts the Best Talent When leaders connect with employees, a happy workforce is born that will not

shy from speaking out on how nice their employer is. They will even recommend your company to their friends and connections. And because highly qualified and efficient job seekers only want to work with the best, your organisation will become the company of choice.

Ask yourself this; if you were to conduct a survey today, how many employees in your organisation would recommend your company to qualified job seekers?

3.To Increase Contribution at the Workplace You could have the most talented and top skilled employees in your company, but if they don’t feel cared about, your competitors will always be winning.

However, if you were to effectively connect with employees, the company would get to enjoy increased contribution and innovation. More employees would volunteer to assist in other departments, share ideas on how to increase efficiency and become the best team players you will come across.

With connected employees, you will never have to worry about a client or customer waiting at the front desk unassisted.

Someone else, regardless of their department, will always step in to help whenever the receptionist is away.

In short, when an employee is convinced that their employer and other leaders care about their well-being, nothing will stop them from working to their maximum.

How to Connect with Your Employees •Take a moment from your busy day to exchange a greeting or have a conversation with your employees.

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring •Plan and participate in activities that demand physical interaction. These could include team building activities, training getaways, out of the office meetings or random lunches and dinner.

•Encourage and insist that your employees honour their 1-hour lunch breaks. You could lead them on this by example.

•Avoid using fear and intimidation with your employees. While this may give you short term results, the long term effects are brutal for your organisation. Instead, create an environment where employees feel safe.

•Allow flexibility in schedules, especially when dealing with special tasks by giving employees a chance to select their own deadlines. Avoid being too bureaucratic.

•Recognise your employees through praise

for good work done, and say thank you whenever they accomplish certain goals.

•Avoid taking all the credit for great achievements, whether in-house or nationally acclaimed. Your employees played a big role in that accomplishment and deserve recognition.

•Establish full transparency at the workplace by making sure there are no communication blocks. Employees want to know what is happening with the organization and how it will affect them.

In the end…

Connecting with your employees is majorly a cost effective measure that goes a long way in rewarding the organisation.

As a leader and employer, your greatest concern is probably the total revenue at the end of the day. While this is very important, don’t let it blind you from

the real reasons your employees are not performing.

Sometimes all you need to do is step out of your office and interact with your employees at a more personal level. Get to know what they think, why they think it, and how you can incorporate that to offer better leadership, improve productivity and enjoy high returns.

Perminus Wainaina is the Managing Partner and Head of Recruitment at Corporate Staffing Services Ltd, a Human Resource Consultancy Firm.

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Customer Service

By kiruthu lucy

Evolving preferences of MILLENNIALS

The Millenial. One of the largest generations in history are unquestionably shaping the future of business and marketing. Known as digital natives, they have a combine purchasing power of over USD 10 trillion globally. With their unique experiences, they are poised to change the way we buy and sell. In the following article, Lucy Kiruthu, the Lead Management Consultant at Evolve Business Consultants explains why it is easy to understand why many companies are trying to appeal to the millennial generation with alternative marketing solutions.

Who is the millennial customer?

The millennials are those considered to have been born between early 1980s to mid1990s. This generation otherwise referred to as generation Y is sandwiched between generation X and the upcoming generation Z or the centennials. Millennials are the sons and daughters of the younger baby boomers and the older generation ‘Xers’. Most of their parents have had formal jobs and as children, millennials had a structured lifestyle to fit in their parents’ schedules. In matters business and customers analysis, millennials are today shopping for themselves, for their children and are influencing the purchase decisions of their parents. In addition, as business owners, middle level and senior managers they are involved in the making purchases in their organizations.

What do the millennial customers prefer?

The millennials are well educated and informed. They witnessed the digital transformation from their early years. They have grown up with access to the internet, with computers, mobile phone, cable TV,

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microwave, instant showers, mobile money and the like. As a result, they are tech-savvy.

Notably, these millenials have grown up experiencing much better services than their parents did. Because of the environment within which they have grown, millennials as customers tend to have higher expectations. They prefer to get things done faster and prefer to interact online via their mobile phones and other gadgets. They like to look at online reviews and ratings for both products and services and to compare multiple online stores before making purchase decisions. Because of the improved access to information, millennials are able to make informed decision and get better deals than their parents. With better understanding of their rights as customers, the Millennials often demand to get value for their money unlike their parents would.

What can businesses do to serve the millennial customer?

Is your organization making it easier for millennials to do business with you? As customers, millennials comprise a sizeable percentage of consumers that has a significant purchasing power. Ignoring this group

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring is only to the detriment of your business. Businesses targeting the millennial customers need to understand them more. Having grown up in an interconnected world, the millennials like to do business with businesses that are easy to do business with.

They desire to have a painless end-to-end customer experience; they are keen on quality and trendy stuff and like to keep up with the times. To serve the millennial customers effectively, businesses must rethink their overall customer experience.

Most importantly, businesses must focus on speed and pay more attention to what their millennial customers are saying.

Social media is a big talk currently. Are Kenyan businesses connecting adequately with Millennials online?

Millennials are active on several social media platforms. They are on Instagram, Facebook, twitter, LinkedIn, Whatsapp and many others. They not only use social media to keep in touch with their friends, but also to interact with businesses. Millennials would rather chat online than send an email, make a telephone call or visit an office. Therefore, businesses hoping

to reach out to Millennials need a heavy online presence across multiple channels. While some Kenyan businesses are adequately connecting with their millennial customers online, many others are still lagging behind. Businesses need to embrace social media to keep the Millennials informed, to handle their enquiries, offer services and to deal with any dissatisfaction expressed online. Businesses must not shy away from customers that have gone digital and that demand a better experience than the generations before them.

Understanding market needs and meeting them appropriately is vital to developing brand loyalty and certainly something that will give any business a competitive advantage.

Kiruthu is the Lead Management Consultant at Evolve Business Consultants a Nairobi Based Management Consultancy firm on a mission to Inspire Positive Change in Business and Society. The firm focuses on Strategy, Leadership and Service Excellence. Please connect via twitter @EvolveAdvisory or Facebook @EvolveBusinessConsultants

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Innovation

By Sthe Shabangu

Innovation; A Sure Bet to Keep Africa Moving Forward

The celebrated Africa month reminded us of how far we’ve come as a continent and as Sthe urges leaders and innovators, it is equally important to remember what still needs to be done to propagate our continent further.

In the wake of Africa month celebration, it is easy to be proud of milestones achieved as a continent and get carried away with African Development Bank research that ranked Africa as the continent with the world's second fastest growing economy.

With our economy expected to grow by 3.4 per cent in 2017 and 4.3 per cent in 2018 according to research in the African Outlook Report, there's little doubt that our vibrant continent is making great strides towards a bright future.

Children are being left behind Despite the good picture we see, report by Internet for Education in Africa approximating 110 million children in Africa having never stepped inside a classroom certainly tells us that it's not enough.

Children across Africa's rural communities are being left behind - and with more than 70 per cent of the continent's population living in rural areas, this is a major problem. The same report similarly shows that at least half the population resides more than 25km from the nearest fiber connection; clearly, while we may be celebrating the growth of connectivity in cities, last-mile connectivity is still a major setback.

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Many diseases; few doctors Education is not the only challenge that requires our urgent attention.

Equally troubling and of no less importance is the healthcare sector.

With serious diseases like Ebola, Malaria, Cholera, Meningitis and HIV/AIDS still posing a great threat to African lives, we have a long journey ahead. In fact, unfortunate as it

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring is, Brand South Africa reports that while Africa shoulders one quarter of the global disease burden, it is home to just 2 per cent of the world's doctors.

In addition to the gravity of the matter of many diseases, Africa's health care systems still lacks the capacity to research, produce and deploy the health care solutions we so desperately need.

This health issue was highlighted at the recent World Economic Forum Africa Summit where it was evident that the private sector will play a vital role in improving healthcare in the continent; that it is in the private sector that the resources to invest in people and product development exists.

Changing lives, One Digital Village at a time As Samsung has discovered first hand, each investment, whether in education or health care or perhaps even both, has the potential to transform hundreds of lives at a time.

“Last year, we at Samsung partnered with UNESCO in Tanzania to provide innovative education and healthcare solutions to the Maasai community in Ololosokwan, Ngorongoro,” observes Sthe Shabangu, the Lead Public Relations Person at Samsung Africa Office.

Together, we established a multi-donor programme comprising of a Samsung Solar-Powered Internet School, a Samsung Solar-Powered Health Centre, a SolarPowered Tele-Medicine Centre and a Solar-Powered Generator.

While the Internet School contains an interactive whiteboard, Samsung Galaxy Note PCs and a printer, the Health Centre provides a variety of eye, ear, blood, dental and pre and post-natal screening and treatments. On the other hand, TeleMedicine Centre, provides prescription and expert healthcare assistance through the use of tele-conferencing made possible by the internet and Samsung Tablets. This ultimately enables greater access to qualified medical assistance where initially, there was none.

Samsung also launched West Africa's first digital village in Volo in the Volta region of Ghana. Here, it is partnering with government, local health services and international stakeholders including UNESCO. Similar to the initiative in Tanzania, the Village is comprised of a Solar-Powered Internet School, Solar-Powered Tele-Med-

ical Centre, Solar-Powered Health Centre and Solar-Powered Generator.

Not only is the Village instrumental in the improvement of healthcare and education in the region but also helps local traders to develop their businesses through the aid of an alternative, low-cost energy source.

“Through innovations like these, we believe it's possible to start changing the status quo. Replicating similar initiative of Digital Villages in the community is Matshiding in Mpumlanga, of South Africa with the goal of making healthcare accessible to more people thanks to Samsung,” points out Shabangu.

Because the Village drastically reduces the distance that patients have to travel to access medical care, almost 700 patients visit the Village each month to access basic healthcare services.

work to do if we want to see our incredible continent continue on its path of transformation, but I firmly believe that the key to our success lies in the power of innovation.

In finality, Shabanga says, “Indeed Samsung's innovations have been changing millions of lives since we first set foot in Africa many years ago. The drive to serve as a catalyst for transformation across the continent is in our DNA. And just as it's been our mandate to inspire innovation in Africa, so Africa has inspired us.”

When it comes to innovation, the limits to what we as a dynamic and developing continent can achieve are few. We have only to look to ourselves.

Sthe is the Lead: Public Relations, Public Affairs and Corporate Citizenship, Samsung Africa Office

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Investing In Africa

Invest in Africa; Providing a Competitive Edge for SMEs to Thrive in the Marketplace Our priority is to bridge the gap between large international and domestic companies and smaller local business and increase access to skills, markets and finance. words, Adisa Hudson

These and many other intricacies facing SMEs in the country stirred the launch of the IIA in Kenya.

Invest in Africa is a non-for-profit organization with a vision to create thriving African economies. IIA partners with private and public sector companies to identify and tackle challenges of doing business in Africa by delivering costefficient and impactful solutions.

“We work with other private sector businesses to create better access to skills, markets and finance for local SMEs,” says Ms. Ithau. “If you give SMEs a platform where they can access business opportunities, most certainly, they can compete competitively.”

Patricia Ithau, Invest In Africa Country Director

In mid-2016, Invest in Africa (IIA) and Strathmore Business School partnered to conduct a study aimed at unearthing barriers to growth and investments Kenyan SMEs face. One of the key findings was the difficulty most SMEs have on accessing available business opportunities from larger corporates. On the flipside, big firms often complain about finding reliable and trusted local SMEs that can deliver to meet their standards. In an exclusive interview with The Edge Magazine, Patricia Ithau, IIA Country Director shares about IIA and its vision in the African economy.

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In April this year the firm introduced Africa Partner’s Pool (APP), a platform which provides opportunities for small and big businesses to engage, interact and do business together. According to her, the APP platform facilitates transparent business in a more timely and cost effective manner.

“The platform addresses fundamental barriers to growth of both small and big corporates in our economy, adds Ms.Ithau.”

IIA-Kenya developed APP with support from its global partners Tullow, a team of technical advisors, procurement professionals and ICT specialists.

Commercial opportunities Besides providing market opportunities, Ms. Ithau confirms that the APP platform is a booming community of businesses with similar goals. “Our other partners including Equity Bank, Safaricom, Ernst & Young and Strathmore Business

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring

School among others signed a charter committing to support the growth of SMEs by providing commercial opportunities on the APP platform.”

In addition, the platform also contains an information toolkit called the Ujuzi Hub to share knowledge and skills development that are pertinent to the growth of small businesses. Additionally, the platform has an SME networking functionality called the Biashara Network.

When Global oil explorer, Tullow came to Africa, they opted to support the initiatives to boost economy and built community where they work. Supporting the growth of SMEs was their best bet because such businesses are the backbone for a thriving economy.

Since its inception in April 2017, about 500 businesses have been validated in Kenya on the platform.

“Anything good, unique and adding value will create interest once introduced to any market. The same can be said of our platform. Kenya is an extremely sophisticated market with diverse businesses driven by tech intervention. With these understanding, we developed a robust platform that meets the market expectations. These among many other reasons clearly explains why we have sparked a lot of interests,” explains the director.

Every business now has a cross-sustainability agenda and developing SMEs remains critical towards sustainability drive.

Requirements Small business pay an annual fee of KShs 5,000 to join the platform. The businesses then undergo vetting to ensure they meet the absolute minimum requirements to do business with big corporates. For instance, SMEs must have relevant certifications, be compliant with all the required laws and regulations among others. “Our validation criteria makes the SME business ready,” points Ms.Ithau.

Close to 40 tenders worth millions of shilling have been floated on the platform. Despite being a relevant solution for SMEs to gain visibility and access businesses, the slowdown in the economy and political uncertainty has impacted the reception of the platform for the last three months.

However, expectations are high going forward with belief that business must progress regardless of economic hiccups.

Some of SMEs representatives during the APP event

“Imagine you have thousands of SMEs on the platform and each of them is employing at least ten people. The ripple effect in terms of empowerment of families and their dependants will be huge. This in essence contributes to the Gross Domestic Product of states economy through the taxes. The SMEs will be encouraged to grow; a move that translates to more employment opportunities,” The biggest challenge yet to SME’s using the APP, says the director, is completing the validation forms and process. Sorting out their documentation and governance structures is quite a hassle because they are not compliant on many fronts.

Going forward “We want to validate at least 2000 SMEs on the platform by end of 2018. We are also encouraging businesses to give the platform a try and complete their validation processes to enjoy available opportunities,” reveals Ms.Ithau.

The firm also plans to have 500 tenders listed on the APP platform by next year.

“Imagine you have thousands of SMEs on the platform and each of them is employing at least ten people. The ripple effect in terms of empowerment of families and their dependants will be huge. This in essence contributes to the Gross Domestic Product of states economy through the taxes. The SMEs will be encouraged to grow; a move that translates to more employment opportunities,” she concludes.

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» Travel & Leisure

Let’s talk Marine…Wha the Marine Parks at the When we talk of the coastal beauty and the pride of the coast, most of the times it’s the oceans and the lush white sandy beaches that cloud our mind. However, as you explore further, Marine parks teeming with aquatic life equally forms a major attraction in the Kenyan coast that you are sure to experience on your next trip! Adisa Hudson, shares of the special attractions that uniquely defines each Park and what to know before your next vacation to the coast.

Watamu Marine Park Within the larger Arabuko Sokoke forests adjacent to the beautiful Watamu, exotic bird chirps is one of the biggest attractions beside the beautiful manicured beaches and high end hotels and cottages. With over 100 bird species housed in the expansive forest and bushes, dusk and dawn chirrups of the bird is something to look forward too. The Black Kite is one of the commonly seen overhead birds while the Common Bulbul, White-Browed Coucal and Speckled Mouse bird are mostly seen tussling in the undergrowth.

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Located 28 KM South of Malindi town near Gede, Watamu, a Swahili translation that means sweet prides itself of beautiful tourist destinations, unique coral gardens, the Gede Ruins and the Watamu Marine National Park. This park boasts of Green turtles which are its unique trademark. The park is part of a multifaceted marine and sea faring habitats along Kenya’s north coast with rich and diverse bird life, fish, turtles and dugongs. Not only that but also, the park provides room for enjoying the white sandy beaches, and water games like snorkeling, water skiing, windsurfing and glass bottomed boat tours to enjoy the marine life at Mida Creek.

Malindi Marine Park Here the marine life entails crabs, corals, sea urchins, jellyfish, sea stars, and sea cucumbers and varieties of coral species that sustain the marine inhabitants. Swimming with zebra fish and windsurfing is an example of fun activities in the park.

True to the park authority sentiments, Malindi Marine Park is a “beautiful slice of Kenya’s Indian Ocean coastline that provides the perfect getaway” not just for your children but offers a myriad of water games that adults will enjoy. The park is endowed with magnificent resources such as fringing reefs, coral gardens in the lagoons, sea grass beds, mangroves, mudflats, marine mammals, turtles and various species of shorebirds.

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring

at to Know about e Coastal Kenya Ideal for glass bottom boat rides, snorkeling, camping and beach walks; a visit to the park will leave you with beautiful memories.

Mombasa Marine Park Located between Mtwapa and Tudor Creeks, Mombasa Marine Park uniquely known for its blue waters is characterized by high coconut palms on white sandy beaches. Mombasa Marine Park is remarkable for wind surfing, skiing, snorkeling and diving. It boast as habitat for crabs, starfish, stone fish, cucumbers sea urchins, corals, turtles, sea grasses and interestingly migratory birds like crab plovers.

In case of more adventure, visitors staying the night can make use of the marine campsite available within the park premises.

Kiunga Marine Park In the northern far end of the Indian Ocean Kenyan Coastline in the East of Lamu lies the striking Kiunga Marine. Approximately 150 Kms East of Lamu, Kiunga Marine Park is located in a rustic village hidden from civilization as we know it. The journey to the park is difficult but the discomfort is rewarding as one gets to enjoy the spectacular sight of the coral reefs, the sand dunes. A common attraction is also the Lamu Archipelago specifically at Kiwayu Island where one gets to enjoy the tidal pool view besides sea urchins, sea turtles and reef fish. It is an invitation to step into the mangrove extensive canopy which forms the major habitat for the turtles.

Kisite Marine Park Located in Wasini Island and enveloped with coral reefs; Kisite Marine Park established to protect the scenic island which is special

habitats for endangered marine life is your perfect spot as a dolphin lover.

The park is a tourist venture that Kwale County boasts of as a home for Dolphins. Being in a serene but remote setting 11kms from the mainland in Kwale County, the park is only accessible by a boat which gives it a different taste of adventure. Dolphins and whales are common sights here.

What to take with you As you plan that visit and get acquainted with the brimming marine life in our beautiful country and the trip of a lifetime with the new Madaraka Express, remember to pack the few essentials in your travel pack.

•Footwear like the ordinary sandals or masaai sandals to protect your feet from the reefs •T-shirts and shorts; light clothes is important because of the heat levels at the Coast •If snorkeling is your kind of water game, be sure to hire a snorkel, mask, fin at the different parks •Carry a good Camera for photography and capturing memories •Have plenty of drinking water and of course •Tag your friend along; the many you are, the merrier it gets!

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» Book Review I first read “How to win friends and influence people” way back in January 1984. That’s nearly 30 years ago (the book was actually written back in 1938). It had a profound effect on me – despite the fact that I am a psychologist and have read thousands of books on psychology, selling, change management and leadership. Yes, it is a little old and there is more up to date advice on a few of the points in other books. But I re-read it every couple of years as it contains good advice for all sorts of situations – whether networking, selling or resolving conflicts.

I urge you to read it yourself, but for those of you who are short of time, here’s a summary of the main points covered: Fundamental techniques in handling people: *Don’t criticise, condemn or complain *Give honest and sincere appreciation *Arouse an eager want

Title: How to Win Friends & Influence People Genre: Management, Leadership

By Adisa Hudson

Six ways to make people like you: *Become genuinely interested in other people *Smile *Remember a person’s name is the most important thing *Be a good listener – encourage others to talk about themselves *Talk in terms of the other person’s interests *Make the other person feel important and do it sincerely Win people to your way of thinking:

*Only way to get from an argument is to avoid it *Show respect for others’ opinions (never say “you’re wrong”) *If you are wrong, admit it quickly and emphatically *Begin in a friendly way *Get the other person saying “Yes, yes” immediately *Let the other person do a great deal of the talking *Let the other person feel that the idea is his/hers *Try honestly to see things from the other person’s point of view *Be sympathetic with the other person’s ideas and desires *Appeal to the nobler motives *Dramatise your ideas *Throw down a challenge Change people without arousing resentment

*Begin with praise and honest appreciation *Call attention to people’s mistakes indirectly *Talk about your own mistakes before criticising the other person *Ask questions instead of giving direct orders *Let the other man save his face *Praise the slightest improvement and praise every improvement. *Give a man a fine reputation to live up to *Use encouragement. Make the fault seem easy to correct *Make the other person happy about doing the thing that you suggest

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» Blog Review

Fresh, Analytical, Inspiring

Blog Name: lifeinmombasa.com Founder: Jammy Life in Mombasa is a lifestyle blog that is keen to capture history, culture and modern day life of the people in Mombasa County. The blog tells the story of Mombasa through the lens of photography and personal blogs by different bloggers on their experience in Mombasa intended to show the whole world the rich vibrant culture, historic monuments and the amazingly beautiful city with blue waters.

Founded by Jammy, a professional communication specialist in Mombasa with vast experience on Social Media marketing, LifeinMombasa blog has consecutively won the BAKE Awards 2016 & 2017 in the ‘Best County Blog’ Awards category.

Jammy holds a Bachelor’s degree in Arts with specialty on

Interpersonal communication from Metropolitan State University in Minnesota (USA). She is experienced in understanding human interaction as well as creating a stronger relationship between consumers and companies. Her’s is an informative blog that will see any stranger appreciate the cultural and historical uniqueness of the Mombasa Raha county with particulars ranging from where to visit, hotels review, local cuisine among many other things.

Before you plan that next visit to the coast via Madaraka Express, you might want to check out her page and fill in the loopholes about what to do and where to visit in during your stay at the coast.

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44

Song Review Migos featuring Nicki Minaj and Cardi B Migos songs are often races to show off any number of expensive supercars. The trio are constantly looking to one-up each other—not just in style and speed, but in the gaudy attachments their vehicles bear. You can hear that same competitiveness in their high-octane verses. Their new song, “Motor Sport,” the first taste of their upcoming album Culture 2, brings the visual full circle, turning their auto fixation into another competitive lap around the track. But the best part of the track is hearing rap’s reigning queen, Nicki Minaj, and her heir apparent, Cardi B, go head-to-head for the first time, each refusing to be shown up by the other.

MOTOR SPORT ARTISTE: Cardi B, Nicki M, Migos

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Cardi and Nicki are both skilled punchers, but they have different tactics and techniques. Cardi is a no-frills straight-talker who ambushes rivals with her directness, her cadence unwavering and drilling (“Yeah, Cardi B, I’m back, bitches/I don’t wanna hear I’m actin’ different/Same lips that be talkin’ ‘bout me/Is the same lips that be ass kissin’”). Nicki is a chameleon who uses colorful, in-your-face imagery to connect, constantly shifting into something else (“Attention, I’ma need you to face front/You don’t want smoke with me, this is a laced blunt/Rap’s Jackie Chan, we ain’t pullin’ them fake stunts/My crown won’t fit on your bum-ass lace fronts”). In turn, they each display what makes them special and so beloved.

Cardi never stops sending shots at her haters, declaring herself the trap Selena and quoting Daddy Yankee, while Nicki repositions herself atop the rap food chain. They both cruise by in foreign whips: Porsches, Bugattis, and space coupes.

Migos are mostly ornamental on “Motor Sport,” understanding they’re a sideshow to the two leading ladies. But that doesn’t mean they don’t show off. Offset offers charged lines about Green Lamborghinis and his own immortality; Takeoff’s verse emulates a drag race with its acceleration.

Quavo sets the stage for the proceedings: His smooth, Auto-Tuned hook acts as a starter pistol of sorts. Migos seem to understand rap culture better than anyone (especially since they make so much of it), and they’ve manufactured another moment in the zeitgeist. Rap traditionally has only let one woman win at a time, so “Motor Sport” is either a changing of the guard or the dawn of a new age.

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Our new restaurant management training center features world-class training and demonstration kitchens ready to work anywhere in the world.

APPLY NOW FOR THE FALL (SEPTEMBER) 2017 INTAKE

www.usiu.ac.ke/apply Tel: +254 730 116 218/ 503/ 247/ 522 or E-Mail: admit@usiu.ac.ke

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B.A. Criminal Justice Studies B.Sc. Information Systems & Technology B.A. Psychology B.A. International Relations B.A. Journalism B.Sc. Accounting B.Sc. Finance B.Sc. Hotel and Restaurant Management B.Sc. International Business Administration B.Sc. Applied Computer Technology

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

UNDERGRADUATE: KCSE: C + (plus) or its equivalent EACE/KCE/KACE/EAACE: 5 Credits in any 5 subjects at 'O’ Level, or 2 Principal C’s at 'A’ Level 12TH GRADE: G.P.A. of 2.50 IGCSE/IB: 5 Upper Level Passes • GCE: 5 Credits in any 5 subjects at 'O’ Level, and/or 'A’ Level passes of C KNEC Diploma or its equivalent GRADUATE: Baccalaureate degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution with a cummulative GPA of 2.5 or better • Work Experience

NB: International credentials that are not noted above will be evaluated in accordance with the International Academic Credentials Handbook.

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) • Master of Business Administration (MBA - with global study tour) • M.A. Clinical Psychology • M.A. Counseling Psychology • M.A. International Relations • Doctor of Philosophy in International Relations

SPRING (JANUARY) 2018 INTAKE • M.A. Communication Studies • M.Sc. Management and Organizational Development • M.Sc. Information Systems & Technology • Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D), Clinical Psychology • Doctor of Business Administration

DOCTORAL PROGRAMS: Doctor of Business Administration - Graduate degree or its equivalent in a business discipline from an accredited tertiary institution/university • Baccalaureate degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution (Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4 under the American System or an equivalent attainment in other grading systems).

Doctor of Philosophy in International Relations - Graduate degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution/university • Baccalaureate degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution (Minimum GPA of 3.2 on a scale of 4 under the American System or an equivalent attainment in other grading systems.)

Education to take you places

Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D), Clinical Psychology - Graduate degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution/university • Baccalaureate degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution.

ALL USIU-AFRICA PROGRAMS ARE ACCREDITED IN KENYA & THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA BY THE COMMISSION FOR UNIVERSITY EDUCATION (CUE) AND THE WASC SENIOR COLLEGE AND UNIVERSITY COMMISSION RESPECTIVELY.

Startupmagazine.co.ke I December 2017