201501026 xnew

MONday, JANUARY 26, 2015| www.x-news.co.ke

3

counties to pay for day lighting says new erc regulations

13

4

protests over helb delay cancelled by leaders

7

celebrity chat airtel trace music star winner, benjamin webi, gunning for the stars ahead of continentals

NEWS

Homeboyz rFC no match for KCB in Kenya Cup clash

Lang’at crowned new Prisons Service X-country champion

Keter should face full weight of law Y

o uthful Nandi Hills MP Charles Keter rose to public limelight in late 2013 following his constant criticism of the Standard Gauge Railway Project which he claimed was marred with corruption.

Since then, the first-term lawmaker has attempted to endear himself, especially to the youth in his constituency, as a voice that audibly articulates their issues and keeps watch at the table to ensure they

are not short-changed in their quest for a piece of the national pie.

But the trust has been thrown into the wind. On Sunday, a video captured the MP as he threatened to unleash fire and brimstone on police officers and highway officials at the Gilgil Weighbridge along the Nairobi-Nakuru road. The exchange has since gone viral on the internet.

The MP, who was accompanied by nominated col-

league Sunjeev Kaur Birdi, was violently demanding that a truck, which had been detained by the weighbridge officials at the station for lack of requisite clearance documents, be released forthwith.

He was apparently angered by the refusal by Government officials to release the truck they had detained for lack of exemption papers (as required by law). The truck was allegedly transporting a drilling rig. — Continued on Page 2

P.8

THE BIG KNOT They overcame the distance that was between them and their love blossomed to see them tie the knot in a colourful wedding

P.9

Frasha goes solo in style

Frasha, of boy-group P-Unit, launched his solo career in a lively party

P.10

RunnING FOR dear life: Road Primary pupils Nairobi run way from were policeprinted officersinwho lobbed #PrinceOfImpunity: This is theLang’ata man who wants to takeSchool us back to theindays when newspapers black and teargas white. at the young souls as a way of stopping a demonstration against the grabbing of the institution’s playgound. Story on Page 2

Tribal Chic x-news.co.ke

Fashion designers unveiled their newest collections for 2015 at weekend show

2

NEWS MONDAY, JANUARY 19, 2015

Keter should face full force of law From Page 1 At that point, the MP exploded, issuing threats while invoking the President’s name to intimidate the officers.

“We are the government. The State House controller is calling you, and no one picks. Do you know that is the President communicating?” he ranted.

“When the President calls, my friend, you have to respect. Whether you are a mother f****r or whatever,” he went on.

Shortly after the video went viral, State House, the Director of Public Prosecution, Transport and Infrastructure ministry and the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission all condemned the incident. The DPP ordered for immediate investigations into the matter.

The two legislators later recorded statements with police at CID Headquarters in Nairobi after Acting Inspector General Samuel Arachi ordered them to do so.

Entering PR mode Keter, in a separate television interview, claimed the video pictures were “misunderstood”, insisting that he was not seeking to “unduly influence public officers”.

Keter claimed he stormed the weighbridge “as part of performing a public service” after receiving numerous complaints of corruption at weighbridges.

“I was acting in my oversight role as a Parliamentarian,” he said. “We (he and his URP nominated colleague Sunjeev Birdi) received calls that officers at the weighbridge were acting in a manner likely to suggest they wanted a bribe.”

---Whatever the reasons, the legislator’s conduct was despicable to say the least. His arrogant and boisterous abuse of powers bestowed on him by Nandi Hills voters also brings to question the capability of youthful MPs to represent the people. Does any Kenyan want a future in which law makers are allowed to break them at abandon as the MP was captured quipping in the clip?

Our answer is a resounding No. We trust that relevant State organs will move expeditiously to ensure the MPs faces the full consequences of his arrogance and little regard for the law he is dearly paid to make and maintain.

#PrinceOfImpunity: Nandi Hills MP, Alfred Keter.

State House dismisses keter’s claims State House Spokesperson Manoah Esipisu has dismissed claims by Nandi Hills MP Alfred Keter that the Presidency wanted a truck detained at the Gilgil weighbridge released.

In a statement to newsrooms, Esipisu says State House supports legal action that will be taken against the legislator once the Ethics and Anti-corruption Commission completes investigations.

“In appearing to intimidate public officers, Keter makes a number

voxpop....

of claims about other public and State officers at State House, Nairobi. These claims are untrue and amount to nothing more than namedropping,” Esipisu said.

“Leaders are reminded that the Constitution requires them to serve and demonstrate respect for the people; and to bring honour to the nation, and dignity to their offices,” the statement said.

He said the Presidency “commends public officers who resisted the apparent intimidation.”

“The Presidency has never, does not and will never support or condone corruption, extortion or abuse of power by any State or public officer,” the statement said.

“It has continued to offer strong support to national institutions in developing capacity to robustly, consistently and effectively wage war on corruption.”

The statement followed a video clip that went viral on social media Sunday in which Keter is seen at the Gilgil weighbridge

demanding that police release a detained truck. He is accompanied by URP nominated MP Sunjeev Birdi.

Despite efforts by an officer to explain they were acting in accordance with the law, the MP could not hear a word.

“We will reverse the law… who is the owner of this company?” he is heard asking the officials there. “We are waiting to hear from whom? …Jesus Christ to call you?”

He is heard alleging that senior

Government officials had tried to contact the weighbridge for the same without success.

“Whoever has that contract will lose it…I don’t fight small battles; you will lose your jobs tomorrow.”

The Ministry of Transport also weighed in on the issue.

“This variant of uncouth and juvenile behavior is callous and irresponsible to say the least, especially coming from a public official who is supposed to know better. As the Ministry charged

with managing the country’s infrastructure, we wish to state that this kind of behavior will not be tolerated, regardless of the perpetrator’s station in society,” Principal Secretary, Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, John Mosonik said.

“We have launched investigations to get to the bottom of the matter, but let the public be assured that we shall not allow anyone to derail our efforts to streamline operations in the sector.”

Are people in authority using their power to oppress those in lower positions?

Kevin Lumumba

Nicholas Lusasi

It is not right for our parliamentarians to use their power to threaten others into doing their biding. It was in bad taste and he should apologise for his actions.

Naomi Kiruri

It is wrong and disrespectful of our leaders to use their power to oppress citizens.

It is shameful for a leader to act in such an immature and disgraceful manner.

He is misusing his power and should ask for forgiveness.

Maureen Atieno

We elected our leaders to bring positive change and development, not to oppress us. Hon Alfred Keter acted in bad taste. It makes us question their leadership qualities.

It is not right for leaders to use power to oppress others. It takes us back as a country.

Instead of moving forward, we are sliding back to the draconian days.

NEWS 3 MONDAY, JANUARY 26, 2015

CARTOONSPEAK

NEWS BRIEFS

Counties to pay for day lighting

Curvy women produce smart children, experts Women with curvy thighs, wide hips and round buttocks are more likely to get intelligent babies than their less-endowed counterparts, a new study claims.

These ‘assets’ play a vital role in fuelling the development of a new-born’s brain via breast-feeding, say the academics.

A public-health epidemiologist at Pittsburgh University, Pennsylvania explains that the fat in these areas is “a depot for building a baby’s brain.”

It has long been a mystery why women produce body fat that is typically 30 per cent of their total weight.

Professor Will Lassek, who led the research says: “This is similar to the levels

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has said that it will take a disciplinary action against county governments for failure to switch off street lights during the day. ERC warned that the county governments will be required to pay Sh11 per kWh for keeping the street lights on during the day. The commission’s director general Joe Ng’ang’a said the move is aimed at saving energy. He directed Kenya Power to ensure the lights are on during the day and for only 11 hours during the night.

seen in bears going into hibernation or whales living in cold Arctic seas.”

David Bainbridge, a reproductive biologist at Cambridge University who has also studied the female body shape, says the latest findings could explain why men find curvy women such as singer Jennifer Lopez so attractive. “It’s because their children are likely to be cleverer,” he says.

“The brain-building, breast-milk lipids (fats) are largely derived from the fat stored in a mother’s thighs and buttocks.

Women with larger thighs have higher levels of these lipids. There is even evidence that they and their children are more intelligent as a result.”

Ebola caught world totally unprepared, admits WHO

WE WERE AMBUSHED: Director-general Margaret Chan. She admitted that Ebola caught the world unprepared and that it had taught the world and the WHO how they must act in the future.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has set out plans for reform, admitting that it was too slow to respond to the deadly Ebola outbreak in West Africa.

At an emergency session in Geneva, director-general Margaret Chan said Ebola had taught the world and the WHO how they must act in the future.

She said the corner had been turned on infections but warned over complacency.

More than 8,500 people have died in the outbreak, the vast majority in Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia.

Dr Chan said: “This was West Africa’s first experience with the virus and it delivered some horrific shocks and surprises.

“The world, including WHO, was too slow to see what was unfolding before us. Ebola is a tragedy that has taught the world, including WHO, many lessons about how to prevent similar events in the future.”

The WHO says patient database figures give the best representation of the history of the epidemic. However, data for more recent weeks are sometimes less complete than in the regular situation reports Dr Chan said that although disease outbreaks would continue to deliver shocks, “never again should the world be caught by surprise, unprepared”.

The reforms announced included a “dedicated contingency fund to support rapid responses to outbreaks and emergencies”.

There would also be improvements in international co-ordination and greater support for countries that needed to respond quickly to emergencies.

This would also require vaccines and drugs to be brought to the market more speedily.

Liberia announced on Friday that it was down to just five confirmed cases - there were 500 a week in September.

Suspected thug shot dead in Kibera A suspected thug was last night shot dead a homemade gun found on him in a botched robbery in Nairobi’s Kibera slums. The suspect was in the company of three others and had been attacking and robbing residents when police was alerted through an alarm.

Officers who responded managed to kill one suspect as his accomplices escaped.

Police say a hunt on those who escaped is ongoing.

Woman wounded in Mpesa attack A woman was shot and wounded in an attempted robbery on an Mpesa shop in Kosovo area of Mathare in Nairobi. The woman was hit in the hand as she fought off a gang that had attacked her. Police say the attackers could have resorted to shooting after the victim raised an alarm. They then escaped on foot without stealing anything from the woman who is now nursing her injuries in hospital.

WHAT OTHERS SAID TODAY...

EACC probing Ngilu link to 2 acres near State House: An Ethiopian businessman has written to the EACC accusing Land CS Charity Ngilu of being part of a group of grabbers targeting his plot on the State House Crecent, Nairobi. Hailu Asfaw, the director of Myta Ltd, says a businessman identified as Abbas Khalif and two associates, Julius Kitur and Albert Kitur, are using the ministry to forcibly eject him from his two-and-a-half acres.

He has written two letters to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission. accusing Ngilu of direct involvement...

MP in trouble after weighbridge rant: Outspoken Nandi Hills MP Alfred Keter has landed trouble again — this time, for invoking President Uhuru Kenyatta’s name even when on the wrong side of the law. Mr Keter was filmed threatening and insulting police officers and workers at the Gilgil weighbridge on the Nairobi-Nakuru road.

The expletive-laden rant was recorded by one of the officers using a cellphone. Blogger Robert Alai posted the video on YouTube yesterday morning, provoking furious reactions from Kenyans on social media...

Uhuru takes on Keter as MP risks losing seat over insults: The political future of Nandi Hills MP Alfred Keter is in the balance after President Uhuru Kenyatta backed his prosecution after the legislator was captured on video tghreatening officials over trucks impoundedd at the Gilgil weighbridge. In the video, Mr Keter claimed State House Comptroller Lawrence Lenayapa had tried to intervene by calling the officials at the weighbridge but Lenayapa and president Kenyatta denied the allegation. If prosecuted and found guilty, Keter would automatically lose his seat...

Keter in trouble for dropping big names to intimidate cops: The Director of Public Prosecutions Keriako Tobiko yesterday called for immediate investigations into an incident where Nandi MP Alfred Keter is alleged to have intimidated police officers on duty and invoking the name of top State officials including Comptroller of State House. A similar fate could befall his colleague, nominated MP Sonia Birdi, both of who recorded statements with police yesterday over the incident...

4

news MonDaY, JanuarY 26, 2015

Planned protests over delayed varsity students’ loans put off More on this story at

www.capitalfm.co.ke

BARRED: Protesting students advance towards Kenyan anti-riot police in a previous protest. A protest that had been planned today over delayed student loans has been put off after HELB promised that the affected student’s will receive their monies by Tuesday.

A protest planned by University of Nairobi students on Monday has been put off, after the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) indicated that funds would be disbursed into affected students’ accounts by Tuesday.

In a statement, Chief Executive Officer Charles Ringera pointed out that the board had completed the allocation and award of loans and bursaries to first time applicants.

He explained that successful applicants were contacted as early as Sunday and urged them to check their accounts for the funds.

“Individual SMSs are being sent to the respective successful applicants’ mobile phones by the end of today, Sunday 25th January 2015. Disbursement to respective individual accounts is in progress and we expect all successful applicants’ funds to be in their accounts on or before close of business Tuesday the 27th day of January 2015 depending on the recipient’s bank,” the board stated.

“Respective applicants’ accounts on the board website will be indicative of loan sta-

tus with effect from Monday 26th day of January 2015.” The University of Nairobi Student Union (SONU) Chairman Babu Owino stated that they would wait until Wednesday to see whether funds will have been made available to those affected.

“The demonstration which had been scheduled for tomorrow, (Monday) has been postponed to Wednesday.

We will be patient till Wednesday when comrades will hold the most peaceful demo without mercy should all these turn out to be PR,” he stated in a Facebook post late on Sunday.

The university’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor Isaac Mbeche has in the meantime appealed to the students to be patient and give dialogue a chance in a bid to resolve the situation.

“I wish to assure you all that I have in this connection consulted with the Cabinet Secretary, Education Science and Technology, Principal Secretary, State Department of Higher Education and the Chief Executive Officer HELB and have been given assurance that disbursement of loans will be duly executed,” he said.

Activist files petition to block IG appointment A human rights activist has petitioned the courts challenging the decision by Parliament to amend the National Police Service Act, which has accorded the President the mandate to hire and fire the Inspector General of Police.

Activist Okiyah Omtatah is contesting the move by the August House to amend the National Police Service Act which has given powers to the President to single handedly nominate the Inspector General of Police without the input of the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) and public participation.

President Uhuru Kenyatta has since nominated Joseph Kipchirchir Boinett to replace David Kimaiyo who retired resigned as Inspector General of Police last month. Omtatah wants the High Court to issue orders stopping

Speakers of the National Assembly and the Senate from forwarding any resolution to President Kenyatta for the appointment of Boinett. He argues the President’s irregular nomination of Boinett as the Inspector General of National Police Service denies him and other Kenyans their right to administrative action that is expeditious, efficient, lawful, reasonable and procedurally fair.

He also seeks to have his case heard alongside that lodged by the opposition seeking to stop the implementation of the controversial security laws.

Efforts by the Government to appeal the decision reached by High Court were on Friday dealt a huge blow when the Court of Appeal declined to reinstate the suspended clauses until the case is heard and determined.

NO WAY: Activist Okiya Omtatah Okoiti. He is contesting the move by the August House to amend the National Police Service Act which has given powers to the President to single handedly nominate the Inspector General of Police.

MAIN MAN: Edgar Lungu (centre), the leader of Zambia’s ruling Patriotic Front, won the country’s presidential election in a close contest, the electoral commission said. Mr Lungu won by a 48.3 percent majority after an election race marred by delays.

Defence Minister lungu wins ZaMbia’s presiDential polls Zambia’s presidential election has been won

by Defence and Justice Minister Edgar Lungu of the Patriotic Front.

Mr Lungu won by a 48.3 percent majority, the election commission said, after an election race marred by delays.

His rival, Hakainde Hichilema of the United Party for National Development, who earlier denounced Tuesday’s election as a sham, came close with 46.7 percent of the vote.

The election was called after the death of President Michael Sata last October.

Mr Lungu, who will be sworn in on Sunday, said he aims to complete economic development projects begun by his predecessor.

On Saturday, Mr Hichilema called the “election” stolen, accusing the electoral commission of manipulating the results to favour Mr Lungu, a former lawyer.

In the interim period following Mr Sata’s death, Zambia was ruled by Guy Scott, a white Zambian of Scottish descent.

He was prohibited from contesting the election because his parents were not born in

Zambia. Mr Scott was the first white president in mainland Africa for 20 years and has been involved in Zambian politics since the 1990s.

Though he was close to Mr Sata and served as his running mate, his relationship with Mr Lungu is less cordial.

In November he sacked Mr Lungu as the Patriotic Front’s secretary-general prompting riots in the country.

Mr Lungu will serve the remainder of Mr Sata’s term until elections in 2016.

xnews | MONday, january 26, 2014 | www.x-news.co.ke

BUSINESS

CBK EXCHANGE RATES 1 US DOLLAR 1 UK POUND 1 EURO 1 S.A RAND 1 KSH/USH 1 KSH/TSH

MEAN BUY SELL 91.7472 91.6806 91.8139 137.7183 137.5961 137.8406 102.6939 102.6100 102.7778 8.0385 8.0291 8.0478 31.0637 30.9866 31.1407 19.8917 19.8227 19.9606

NEWS BRIEFS

S. Sudan conflict may cost East African neighbours Sh4.6 trillion in lost revenue

Standard Chartered Bank plans to retrench 4,000 employees London-based bank, Standard Chartered (StanChart), has frozen the hiring of new staff or replacement of exiting employees in a move that affects its Kenyan subsidiary. The bank says it has sacked 2,000 employees as part of a global restructuring process that will result in 4,000 job cuts.

StanChart said the cuts would help save $200 million (Sh18.4 billion) of the lender’s $400 million (Sh36.7 billion) planned cost savings for this year.

Apple CEO’s pay nearly doubles to Sh184 million

Apple’s CEO has seen his salary increase to $2 million (Sh184 million) from $1.4 million (Sh129 million) in 2014.

Tim Cook (pictured), the tech giant’s chief executive, took over from the late Steve Jobs after the Apple founder died in 2011. His base pay went up by nearly 43 per cent in February last year.

The base salaries for other executives also went up by over 14 per cent to $1 million (Sh92 million).

The war in South Sudan could cost Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia and Sudan more than $50 billion (Sh4.6 trillion) if it continues for another five years, a recent report by UK consultancy firm, Frontier Economics, has revealed.

Kenya and Uganda stand to be the heaviest losers as they account for a larger amount of South Sudan’s imports.

Several Kenyan banks in the war-torn country are also among the hardest hit, CNBC Africa reports. Kenya Commercial Bank, Equity Bank and Co-operative Bank have reported tough operating environment due to the slowdown in economic activity.

Solar plant to start supply by Jan 2016

A new plant that is under construction will start generating power for the national grid by January 2016.

The plant focuses on solar energy as Kenya focuses on cheap, safe and environmentally-friendly sources of renewable power.

The country has so far focused on hydro, geothermal and wing energy.

Power firm in cheaper energy programme for slum dwellers

vibrant boost: Traditional dancers at the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Events (Mica) Expo 4. The Mice industry has been identified as a key driver in the country’s efforts to boost tourism numbers to Kenya.

Mice Expo ushers new era for tourism in Kenya The tourism sector received a major boost in a colourful, vibrant and animated weekend event dubbed the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Events (Mica) Expo.

Mice refers to a type of tourism in which large groups are brought together for a purpose.

Such exhibitions are usually used to describe what sector stakeholders around the world call the ‘meetings industry’.

As the first convention of its kind, the Expo was abuzz with traditional dancers, flashing lights and African decorum.The event, an initiative of the Gov-

ernment, was a three-day affair held at the Kenya International Convention Centre (KICC) Tsavo Ball Room. It ran between January 23-25 from 8:00 am daily.

The Mice industry has been identified as a key driver in the country’s efforts to boost tourism numbers to Kenya.

It is part of a wider strategy to position Kenya as the preferred premier Global Mice destination.

This weekend’s event, the first of its kind in Kenya, drew more than 1,000 delegates, and is expected to earn the country billions of shillings every year.

As the Mice industry continues to take shape, it has emerged that Kenya is the second most preferred destination for conference tourism in Africa after South Africa.

It has held the position for three consecutive years based on latest rankings by the International Conference and Convention Association.

“Our vision is for Mice to grow into an annual event and become one of the biggest MICE events in Africa,” said East African Affairs, Commerce and Tourism Cabinet Secretary Phylis Kandie.

Residents of Silanga and Soweto villages in Kibra, Nairobi, will enjoy reliable power supply at affordable rates after Kenya Power launched a programme to subsidise costs.

Speaking during the launch of the programme, Kenya Power Managing Director Ben Chumo said the distributor in partnership with the World Bank target to connect about 20,000 households.

“Kenya Power has opted to pre-invest in the programme by constructing connection lines, installing transformers and other infrastructural setup to enable connection to customers’ houses,” said Chumo.

The World Bank through the Global Partnership of Output-Based Aid will contribute Sh19,350 while Kenya Power

will put in Sh11,970 per connection.

This will top up the standard capital contribution of Sh32,480 per connection.

The company has offered credit facilities through selected financial institutions.

Kibra residents will be connected to prepaid metres at a fee of Sh1, 160 which will be recovered from the customer’s purchase of prepaid tokens for a period of 12 months. This translates to about Sh100 per month.

Other low income and informal settlement areas that will benefit from the plan include Nairobi’s Mukuru kwa Njenga. Wiyumiririe in Nyahururu and other informal settlements in Kisumu, Mombasa and Western Kenya will also be included in the project.

STAMPING OUT THEFT: Residents in Kibera and other settlements have for years benefited from illegal power connections. Kenya Power has stepped in to provide affordable power to Silanga and Soweto villages in Kibra, Nairobi.

BuSINESS DIARY Business over Breakfast networking event at Chester House

Young entrepreneurs meet at Hotel 680

Chester House (pictured) will host a networking event dubbed Business over Breakfast (BoB) on Wednesday January 28, 2015 from 8:00 am to 10:00 am.

Participants will get a unique chance to create new networks, grow business links and learn of key factors affecting how businesses are transacted.

A statement from the event’s organisers, H&J Events, says participants will learn from Jacki Ojiambo, a business etiquette guru.

Those planning to attend can contact Magdalena on 0725867329 or e-mail ‘atienomagdalena@ gmail.com’. Registration fee is Sh1,500.

Young Entrepreneurs Corner (YEC), a monthly event organised by Ideas Spot, Mara Mentor and Afrom Media, has invited business-centric individuals to attend a networking affair at Hotel 680.

Dubbed ‘Young Entrepreneurs Corner’, the 5th instalment of the event will take place on January 29, 2015 at 5:00 pm.

The event targets aspiring young entrepreneurs, young business owners, business mentors, investors, financiers and business professionals. Those who attend will get skills on how to promote and encourage youth enterprises.

A statement from Ideas Spot reads: “Participants meet peers and friends, build contacts, share success stories and strike business partnerships.”

6

NEWS MONDAY, JANUARY 26, 2015

Low cost loans for Nyanza farmers One Acre Fund, a non-profit agricultural organization that offers farming inputs and training on credit to smallholder farmers is offering low-cost loans to farmers in Western and Nyanza to boost their production and yields. This comes at a time when timely access to seeds, fertilizers and finances have slowed their crop production.

The loans are offered by One Acre Fund, in the region.

Late last year, the organization announced the opening for enrolment for the 2015 long rains growing season in Kenya.

According to Jenny Best, the organisation’s communication officer, participating farmers will receive a complete bundle of agricultural inputs and services on credit, including the delivery of improved seeds and fertilizer.

They will also receive training on how to maximize crop yields, and education on how to minimize post-harvest losses.

Best says: “Loan package values range from Sh5,000 to 12,500 for new members while returning members have access to loans up to Sh18,000.

12,500 upper limit value of the loan package.

“Smallholder farmers are some of the hardest-working people in the world, but they have little access to the resources they need to succeed,” says Nick Handler, Director of One Acre Fund Kenya.

“The benefits of joining One Acre Fund are clear: it’s affordable, accessible, and proven to permanently increase farm income.”

Farmers in Kenya who enroll for One Acre Fund’s basic loan package will receive improved seeds for staple crops in addition to Grevillea tree seeds, fertilizer, insurance for drought and funerals, and weekly trainings conducted within walking distance of their homes.

Farmers in the program also have access to full-time field officers employed by One Acre Fund and a customer care hotline.

In addition, farmers who purchase the basic loan package also have the option to receive additional products on credit, including maize, millet, sorghum and bean seeds, as well as solar lights, crop storage bags, and actellic dust to protect harvests from pest infestation.

One Acre Fund delivers all products and services to a drop-off point within walking distance of client’s homes.

therise

Longhorn Kenya

Longhorn Kenya, was last week’s stock winner with a 12.09 per cent stock price increase from Sh9.10 to Sh10.20.

Last year, the company’s half-year profit increased from Sh16.9 million (in 2012) to Sh30.1 million (2013). Marginal sales growth has been attributed to the export markets of Uganda, Malawi, Tanzania and Rwanda.

The company has been investing in electronic

Mumias Sugar

learning materials to benefit from the government’s plan to equip all school children with laptop computers.

Longhorn will also benefit from the government ordering program which accounts for 80 per cent of textbook purchases and annual allowances for free primary education (FPE). With that specific program, Sales are expected to rise by between 20 per cent and 25 per cent.

Mumias Sugar, was again, last week’s stock loser with a 25.71 per cent stock price decrease from Sh3.50 to Sh2.60. Mumias is currently facing corporate governance issues combined with risk debt default, which threaten the firm’s cash flow and revenue critical to servicing its heavy debt burden.

Mumias has experienced a drop in revenues due to increased sugar imports, including claims of

Analysis by Amana Capital info@amanacapital.co.ke

thefall

illegal shipments by top management (costing the company more than KES 1 billion), forcing down prices, hurting its margins and causing the slide of its share. Mumias is also among the several companies in the local sugar industry that will face stiffer competition starting from March 2015 with the end of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (Comesa) protection measure from cheaper imports.

MONDAY, JANUARY 26, 2015

ACCESS

the big knot

He won the Kenya Airtel Trace Music Star Talent search but he is still in the run for the continental crown, and the ultimate prize.

celebchat

FACT File:

Name: Benjamin Webi Age: 30 Marital Status: Married Songs: Pamoja Milele, love Stand

Benjamin Webi still reaching for the Stars Congratulations on your win.

How was that for you?

It was exciting. It was a big night, I had an opportunity to share what I was capable of doing with the whole country. When I was declared a winner it was a crazy, surreal and emotionally filled moment. When I got the mic to say a speech I was actually lost for words, which is rare. It was a few days before it sank in that I had won.

How was your experience on Airtel Trace Star?

It was transformational.

The judges were supportive, they were the best judges because they knew what they were doing and they guided us with the utmost professionalism through out the entire process. It was an amazing experience and all the contestants became good friends. This is

probably the only time where contestants shared trade secrets.

You will be representing Kenya on a bigger platform. Any pressure?

Little bit of pressure but at the same time not so much. Because, by the time I have won the Kenyan level it means that there is a very good chance I might win the Pan African one. The only difference is now I have to compete against 13 more contestants from different countries.

The only advantage I have is, I have a little bit more time to prepare.

My responsibility is to make my performance the best it possibly can be if I am to stand a chance at winning this. I am working on my voice and putting in more rehearsal time than I normally do.

I think my biggest competitors are the Nigerians, they have big numbers.

Kenyan bloggers win big in Nigeria Renowned wedding photographers Ben and Gathoni Kiruthi received an award for the Best Blog in Africa at the Social Media Awards Africa in Lagos, Nigeria. After receiving the award, Ben Kiruthi took to Instagram to show his appreciation saying: “Glory be to God in all the highest. We won the award for the Best Blog in Africa. This goes to show that there is nothing too big for our God.�

Who is Webi?

I am a husband and a father to a little girl, which is a huge responsibility and honour. I am also an undercover marketer in regards to music, who is a fun loving go-lucky guy. I am a musician who for the largest part of his music life has been an RnB and soul singer but I recently started exploring the African sound.

What is the inspiration behind your music?

My faith. I am a born again Christian and I love to share my experiences with my faith through music. In that regard I am a contemporary gospel artiste. The other thing that inspires me is love and relationships. Love in its different aspects not necessarily romantic ones just how people treat each other and component of humanity. I believe if people had love in their hearts we would not

have things like #Occupyparliament and the world would be a better place. I am also greatly inspired by life, my experiences and views of it.

Who do you look up to in the industry?

In Kenya, Kanjii Mbugua, he is an authentic artiste, he invests in new talent, he is a man of faith-I am inspired by what he stands for and how he does his work- and Kanjii is a great singer. Internationally I look up to Israel Houghton, Joe Thomas, John Meyer and Brian McKnight. They make music that embodies longevity and relevance.

Which artistes have you worked with and which artistes would you like to work with? I have worked with Riggah, Neema, Mbuvi Kiki, HolyDave and the Votaries. Moving forward I would like to work with Anto Neo soul, Maurice Kirya,

Sauti Sol and Elani.

What is next for Webi?

I hope to release my third album within the first quarter of this year.

I would like to venture into business a bit by starting a clothing line with my brand. I would also want to invest in talent because I have come across many talented people who do not necessarily get to make it because they do not have someone to guide them and support them.

My biggest dream is to do an all Africa music tour and while at it do international collaborations.

Connect with Webi on his social media pages. He needs your support to win the Pan-African Airtel Trace Stars and bring the trophy home.

Facebook: Webi music Twitter: @webi_ Instagram: @webimusic.

HOT Nonini and Didge TOPICS

new collabo

Two old-timers in the music industry, Nonini and Didge, have collaborated on a song Tudunde, which drops today.

It is going to be interesting to see how the Godfather of Genge, Nonini, and soulful singer Didge will come together in this new song. The song was produced by Keggah.

DiDge NoNiNi

8

ACCESS

WEDNESDAY MONDAY, JANUARY 26th NOVEMBER 26, 2015 2014

FASHIONScoop the BIGKNOT

I’m Black FashIon JaY Z Junk haPPIlY EVER aFTER Is noT a FaIRY mTV quIZ YoRk TalE IT Is nEW a choIcE

n i d e w e r b e v Lo

: t o p n a c i r f A an y

e i r r e G d n a a r Auro

walked as her mother ich was played wh e same n th ga is or g in bye to, my best during her wedd od le go ais y e sa to the th r et ve wn rp ne do d graced the ca someone I coul ich she joyfully ” she said. d selfless wh er, an e rtn on ted pa e vo f lif de of d , friend an ry loving m. ely kicked st’.

Gerriey is a ve arms of her groo ations immediat in presence of their eds of others fir Wedding prepar 0,000. Inspired came to Kenya d vows in the who puts the ne t 30 in ge d ou Sh He an Go ab of ch ica of s et ex or tie an dg Vi ey m ce bu a ni Th d of uror n ate sings from the io d es ty tim re bl iss en es m pl on ed an ek iv th wi a five-we ey also bubbles ones and rece on, they settled ppiness, rri as ha d se y Ge ve m lo as is July of 2009 on e tm e sh s sh ris th e Ch by the her becaus er. her last week urs. After mon Aurora. “I love presiding preach eir theme colo God has ordained trip. While on yweds went for and gold as th a at an evening ily and close and most of all ptials, the newl d m ain nu fa Go e ain of th m W lp fro ter ey he ft af rri gi e on a th So th met Ge irmont Norfolk wi , , Fa ng 13 e ni r Th an be at of pl shoot session ’s love ed day, Decem o relationship.” ra ait r ot ro ou aw ph Au a d ng reception feast r an lo e he th e ey to rri ew event. friends, th day passed, Ge she guests settled in about him dr at ch eir th ng th ea ati in ile As in rta sc wh e.

Ce fa m in red Something 2014 finally ca kept mounting. ’s reception hall. m, there was an Nairobi dazzled e forever, for each other oment I met hi at the St. Andrew st man, led the the new ed up nted by his sid Andrews PCEA lin ys closer. “The m . wa sa St rs the groom’s be ,” he s we us e flo wa n on o ee ul e th tif , wh betw s au vi n wa Be bu tio M r. ey came back ec co th e. nn de e. ris co en instant and gold and dance wh ted a huge surp dding entourag ot ith ng we pl W so r ey o. fo in rri ag d s es Ge ar ow in cr ye ad a so bride, his Mrs Wainaina. the aisle in re Aurora jetted in ming to an end song.

Windsor waited for his To his delight, her stay was co to the reception. ly wife with a rriey patiently ey spent le, he took her to Ge Th du swiftly to Unfortunately, . he As ng ed sc lo ov r on m fo ll re d sti renaded his love er we the an se th an ey ed ge in pl ey th ur s to rri ed hi no ve be lk Ge t ho lie wa o no y be r d als they coul grooms’ men before she finall e of the guests, k”. They sported 2014 making he on er he tal 6, a, th e y, ril ge gu th da to bu Ap alk at M ys on th n “W da Ia on k shirts the remaining his favourite jam oto shoot. And not the last they a song. r hand ge blazers, blac going for a ph wever, this was newlyweds with red velvet cake the made red kiten and asked for he ete ee m pl kn flew to US. Ho sto m e cu co on on eyeing the to pt on tie ke wn w ts do bo es nt gu en r. ld e we he go Th ating torture ot a ch th ay heard of ea and pants wi 00 miles aw g when the saliv ose that day in marriage. rhaps wonderin rora, though 70 ted it, they op pe Au tas pr y d yto all an in g wl fin in ne ey ed go ey rri ch eir . s th ar th Ge wa look end. And when Derulo’s in red dresses, m pt on exploring had no idea he d n ul ke all “I so r, s, wo Ja e. he er aid a ay ot th m pl to ch ht to in e’s ea from The brid s phone lly grew was made rig ys yes”. the He pulled out hi , which gradua thought heaven “when Jesus sa and friends the knee and asked found attraction lked in with with Michelle’s lationship. en went on one wa re es from family th a sh e, y e” id wi m all br ll e ry fin we th ar d e, an “M ith m p W hi ca aight to their e ds e str en tim in tim . fri r on s ra of he ng ou t ro ad n vi or lo Whe estion,” says Au e love gant and glam her stood the tes was free to he th qu ot ele le g to g ch ’ bi up in ea es co r ok ‘y i. lo fo d id ba an sa ps ve ld Du Their lo careful ste on, Aurora st, respect nzibar and and red and go Without hesitati Because of tru honeymoon in Za , cathedral veil dsor. wn in ed e go W ish e liv at ur l lin ge flo ica Aid and distance. r p ss br hi he at ns e cla ew he was of her life on th incidentally, th ve, their relatio met Gerriey, I kn rivers that nothing but lo wedge shoes. Co e with, m the moment I as, oceans and lif ro se y “F y m an of m st e re th despite d spend the someone I coul at kept them apart. aises. “I love th pr th wi ey rri Ge Aurora showers

A

ACCESS

MONDAY, JANUARY 26 , 2015

CENTRESTAGE

a revIeW of Weekend events.

Frasha goes solo F

rasha, one third of the allboy group P-Unit, launched his solo brand ‘I am Frasha on Friday at the Michael Joseph Centre.

The set up was great with an open bar and food. The invite said 7pm but the event started a bit late, the delay riding on the typical Kenyan excuse of traffic jam. Before the event started, however, people were mingling and a good chunk of celebrities were in the building to support one of their own carve a new beginning. Celebrities who were in the house included: Blinky Bill of Just A Band, Muthoni Ndonga, Scott the Violinist, Fundi Frank, Kris Darling, Mzazi Willy Mtuva of Mseto, Nonini, Mongolo, Jaguar, Avril, Rabbit, Kenzo, Chris Adwar, Eric Omondi among others. We tried to spot them all but we may have missed some who sneaked in late, or who just did not want to be seen!

After the oh so glamorous photo ops, Frasha finally got to the stage and gave an electrifying performance backed by a live band.

This really kept people on their feet. I mean you should have seen the energy in that place! Electric.

He performed Disco with Pato who wrote it. Eric Wainaina, with whom he recorded the song, was not able

to make it. Frasha decided to clear the air on P-Unit breaking up half way through his performance saying: “This is not a break up of P-Unit, we are together. We still have gigs and we are performing. I wanted to do something more for this industry. We as artistes complain a lot about our songs not being played. It is about time we up our game. Be serious and build generations of artistes who can do great music.’’

Later, Frasha called Kristoff and Rabbit on stage to perform Kristoff’s new song Dandia. I mean, these three artistes brought it on the stage. They performed in a way that made fans feel like jumping on the stage with them. Towards the end of Frasha’s performance, Eric Omondi made an appearance and danced like there was no tomorrow. His little frame notwithstanding, the funny man was the much needed break to allow Frasha a costume change, Yes, he had an outfit change. By 11pm the show was over and the people in attendance went back to mingling and catching up.

We overheard that Kenzo was working on his new album which he will release soon. Shh! don’t say we told you, It is supposed to be a secret.

In his I Am Frasha brand Frasha

hopes to produce and promote good content and manage artistes and sign on new ones. He has already signed on Shirley and Wakuu, a young group onto his label.

“The whole industry came out to support me and we had a great show. I like what happened today.

The night could not have been gone any better,’’ he said.

Also under the brand, Frasha is supporting causes like 1million fathers with Gender Violence Recovery Center.

“As you know I am a father, I have daughters and I would not want anyone to mess with them.

So we want fathers to sign up in the hopes that it will end gender based violence,” he noted.

He is also working to raise awareness on Autism, in collaboration with Autism Kenya. He hopes to get fathers to sign up to stop gender violence.

Other artistes also had good things to say about Frasha’s show they all agreed it was a good show.

“Today was amazing. I think this would be a good year for Kenyan music. I am excited because I used to watch Frasha when I was in high school and to get an opportunity to share a stage with him was amazing,” said Rabbit. Rabbit also

Miss Universe goes to Colombia Miss Universe Colombia, Paulina Vega, was crowned Miss Universe World in Miami, US yesterday. She beat, more than 80 contestants to claim the top prize.

Kenya’s very own, Gaylyne Ayugi, unfortunately did not make it to the top selection. The 22-year-old business student, Vega expressed her joy at winning the crown, saying she will wear it with pride and honour.

HOT TOPICS

9

in style told X Access that he is rebranding and will now be known as King Kaka. He also confirmed that he is launching his album in March. “I am excited for my album launch,” he said.

“It has been a great night and performing my song Dandia with Frasha and Rabbit was the highlight of the night,” said Kristoff.

Overall it was a great night and the celebration of Frasha’s new brand continued to Skyluxx Lounge until the wee hours of the morning.

avrIl

erIC oMondI

blInky bIll

abbas is a father Rapper Abbas Kubaff and new wife Anna welcomed a baby girl, named Sophia, over the weekend. The rapper was elated and announced the news via his social media by simply posting a picture of his new born saying: “Baraka zimetoklezea’!

10

ACCESS

MONDAY, JANUARY 26, 2015

FASHIONScoop

Niku SiNgh aNd adele dejak Stole the Show with their exceptioNal diSplay of origiNal jewellery.

HOSTS: Anabel and Susan also wore Adele and Niku.

acceSSorieS waS all the rage at triBal chic F

ashion designers brought out their newest collections for 2015 at the Tribal Chic fashion event held last Friday at the Tribe Hotel.

The annual event seeks to give established and new designers a chance to not only showcase but also to sell their designs.

The designers at this year’s event included Adele Dejak, Deepa Dosaja, Nike Kondakis, Anne Mpinga, Anthony Mulli, Katungulu Mwendwa and Niku Singh.

We were taken in by the jewellery collections on show.

Niku Singh wowed with his unique male collection, while Adele Dejak flaunted her prowess with her female collection.

Diamond Platnumz

Jaya

Jaya commends all fathers doing a great job as family men. ‘Wewe ndiwe’ (You are the one) is a tribute to all men actively involved in their children’s lives. Her lovely voice escapes her effortlessly in a way that will definitely melt men’s hearts. She is one to watch out for.

wewe ndiwe

Diamond’s new single ‘Nasema nawe’ shows how intricately refined his art is. The Nitampata wapi hit maker throws a shade at small talk idlers and challenges them to make something good of themselves. His finesse sets him apart from the rest and it will hold him on top charts for a long time to come.

Nasema nawe

Avril

lyriclab BEST...

‘Hello baby’ is a love song that will greatly charm and grace airwaves across East Africa. Ommy Dimpoz’s mellow voice totally saves Avril’s vocals. He gives her style a fresh touch.At the very least they look good together in the video! We predict it will do better than her track Nikimuona.

Hello baby ft. Ommy Dimpoz

PLAY 11 MONDAY, JANUARY 26, 2015

WEATHERFORECAST

DAILYHOROSCOPES CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan19 At certain moments you can feel where your destiny lies. Today will be such a moment for you, Capricorn. You may want to shift your fundamental orientation. Every area of your life will be affected by this shift - where you live, who you live with, your children, and your job.

m0nday 26/01/2015

sunny

27

AQUARIUS Jan 20 - Feb 18 Anyone who tries to hold you back today had better watch out, because you won’t be in the mood to tolerate any objections. You refuse to be restrained. This is an excellent time to reinforce your reputation as an excellent coach. It’s clear to all that you’re the captain of your crew.

More sun than clouds

28

26ºC 28%

PISCES Feb 19 - Mar 20 Today you may be touched by a person who exudes the kind of determination produced by a combination of spiritual and intellectual strength and faith. The encounter with this person is likely to inspire you to commit yourself wholeheartedly to some good work, perhaps a charity.

tuesday 27 /01/2015

6:40 am 6:50 pm

26ºC 28%

6:40 am 6:51 pm

wednesday

28

Fill in the blanks with the numbers 1-9. every row, column and 3x3 box must contain all nine digits with no repeated number.

Friday’s Solution

ARIES Mar 21 - Apr 19 Have you been lethargic lately? If so, today is your wakeup call. You will be alert and clear about the task at hand. You understand that your help is urgently needed, and that there’s no time to waste. You can expect to pour a great deal of energy into a single, well-defined goal today.

Sudoku

TAURUS Apr 20 - May 20 The day will be fairly eventful, Taurus. There’s some likelihood that you will feel suddenly compelled to settle a tedious matter once and for all. It may concern something in your domestic life that’s been left unattended. This problem is the only thing that will matter today.

GEMINI May 21 - Jun 21 You may have a speech to deliver or a private performance to put on for your beloved. In any case, you will have to prove yourself, and you will spare no energy in the attempt. By the end of the day, you will be satisfied but completely drained. Plan to rest afterward.

CANCER Jun 22 - Jul 21 You can look forward to a busy day, Cancer. Don’t schedule any additional tasks. Your home, family, or mate is likely to demand a great deal of you. In fact, Cancer, your energy is likely to be stretched to the breaking point, so be careful to keep some strength in reserve for yourself.

LEO Jul 23- Aug 22 You’re likely to spend time with someone who energizes and rejuvenates you today. With luck, this meeting won’t occur too late in the evening, or else you will have a problem going to sleep, Leo. This energy is going to give your projects a much-needed boost.

MUSTREAD

VIRGO Aug 23- Sep 22 This need will raise the issue of how to incorporate more exercise into your life. This would be an ideal time to join a gym. Participating in a group sports activity would be a good choice for you. Get started, no matter what outlet you choose, Virgo. Excuses won’t be tolerated.

Don’t Let Him Know - by Sandip Roy

LIBRA Sep 23 - Oct 22 A day such as today should demonstrate an old truth - people remember the good and forget the bad. You will be brimming with energy, Libra, hopeful and optimistic for the future. The question is how are you going to spend this incredible energy of yours?

Amit has found a letter hidden away in an old address book.

He is convinced he has found out his mother’s secrets, but has he?

His mother, Romola, remembers the letter pretty well. She was a new bride in a new country patiently waiting at the end of each day for her lecturer husband to come home. Since the day she arrived, she has been anxiously waiting for a letter from home. Then one day she opens a letter that was not meant for her which completely changes her life.

Amit is not aware his devoted dad, Avinash, is a closet gay.

He does not understand what his mother gave up to move to a different country. There are too many covered up secrets.

Will Amit keep up?

SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21 These are desires that you may well have at the moment as you begin the process of widening your field of vision. See if you can set up a journey of this kind, Scorpio. People will have confidence in you now, so all sorts of possibilities are at your disposal.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 22 - Dec 21 What’s happening in your personal relationships, Sagittarius? It seems as though you’re looking for a fight. Could it be that someone has stolen a leadership position out from under your nose? You have a tendency to lead any group, yet now you’re confronted with resistance.

INSTAMOMENTS 1

3

2

4

Vote for winning pick of today’s top three instamoments (below) by sending an email with the picture number to: play@x-news.com

Friday’s winning photo

YOURSAY

Send a caption for the photo above with your name and location to: play@x-news.co.ke .The winning caption gets published on this page.

Keter embarassed himself and his constituents The Alfred Keter threats to police officers going about their business reads like a script from a bad movie. Aside from making a mockery of himself (presumably

to impress his lady friend), he also showed just how little regard for the law we have in this country. I hope the President, and the other people he claimed to be

speaking for, noted how terribly their name had been smeared, and cut relations, if any, with the said MP. His constituents should also make sure he never sees any public

office, because he just proved to be nothing but a selfish m*@*r (one of the unprintable words Keter used in his tirade). ­—Concerned citizen, Nairobi

winning captions

1. Come on brother, you are embarassing me -Musa J, Nairobi 2. Hunger knows no decency, son-Benroberts Mangaret 3. This is how to eat spaghetti; forget chopstics and forks-BM, Nrb

12

PLAY

FRIDAY, JANUARY 26, 2015

CROSSWORD Across 1. Mecca trek 5. Outward: Anat.

10. Subway stops: Abbr.

14. Albanian president 15. Tony winner ___ Lenya 16. “How do you like ___!”

17. Cockpit workers 19. Hair-raising 20. ___Rogers St. Johns 21. By airmail from France 23. Football Hall of Famer Dickerson 26. Everlasting, old style 27. 2005 Mark Wahlberg movie 32. Hole punching tool 33. Alexander, for short 34. Reply to ‘You are not!’

38. Jay of TV 40. “Dirty Dancing” director Ardolino 42. Gen-___ 43. Turkish city 45. Hole-___ (ace) 47. Capone’s gun 48. A for Ellery Queen; F for a piano mover 51. Military vehicle for landing assault troops 54. Dried up 55. Moonlight melody 58. Alloy of tin and lead 62. Stepped (upon) 63. Carried out exactly 66. Broadway start 67. Corn or change start 68. Validate 69. Optimum 70. Where Greek met Greek 71. Intuitive feelings Down 1. Czech tennis ace Mandlikova 2. Oingo Boingo’s “Only ___”

3. Jazz talk 4. Turnkey 5. Old scale topper 6. Small bed 7. Sporty auto roof 8. Gillette shaver 9. Singer with the hit ‘You Gotta Be’ 10. 1982 N.L. Rookie of the Year 11. Possessive adjective 12. Burr who shot Hamilton 13. “I’ll Walk Alone” songwriter 18. Attires 22. Longfellow town 24. Dies __25. Grandiose 27. Roosevelt’s dog 28. Didn’t pay yet 29. It’s longer than the radius 30. Sign on an office wall.

31. Nimbuses 35. Prefix with byte 36. Madrid ladies: Abbr.

37. Bone (prefix) 39. By deferred payment 41. “The NeverEnding Story” author Michael 44. ___ Islands, off Ireland 46. Have one’s ___ the ground 49. Lafayette National Park, today 50. Pressed-pants feature 51. Make ___ at (try) 52. Dancer Cunningham 53. Easy runs 56. Doorbell sound 57. Within: Comb form 59. Maps rds.

60. Less than average, tidewise 61. Skinny swimmers 64. Suffix with musket or ballad 65. La-la preceder

YESTERDAY’S SOLUTIONS

DAILY WISDOM “The Prophet Muhammad (s) said: “Do not turn away a poor man… even if all you can give is half a date.

If you love the poor and bring them near you…God will bring you near Him on the Day of Resurrection.”

Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 1376.

“Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith.”

Galatians 6:9-10

“Life without goodness, good thoughts, good actions and good words is like the sky in the night without the moon or stars. It is like a wheel without a hub or spokes! No one can push a boulder away while standing on it; you cannot be free from anxiety while all the entrances through which it sneaks in are open.”

— Atharva Veda

“I do not regard advertising as “My favorite things in life don’t cost entertainment or an art form, but as any money. It’s really clear that the most precious resource we all have a medium of information.” is time.” —Steve Jobs —David Ogilvy

You don’t get paid for the hour. You get paid for the value you bring to the hour —Jim Rohn

My mom worked at McDonald’s, and she decided she wanted to make more money, so she got into the management program at McDonald’s. And that’s how you move up the chain. It’s not by demanding that minimum wage is raised; it’s by actually acquiring the skills. That’s the way that people get ahead in life. ­—Raúl Rafael Labrador U.S. Representative for Idaho’s 1st congressional district

Sport MONday, JANUARY 26, 2015

Homeboyz no match for KCB in Kenya Cup clash Homeboyz were no match for Kenya Commercial Bank who won 41-5 in the Kenya Cup league week nine action at the weekend.

KCB took the lead through Maxwell Adaka’s try which was converted by Darwin Mukidza at the KCB grounds. The bankers were dominant in lineouts and scrums which is where most of their points were won. Andrew Amonde barged over for the second try in the 18th minute after KCB were awarded a scrum inside Homeboyz’s territory.

KCB led 19-0 up at half hour mark as Adaka completed a brace

at the stroke of halftime. Mukidza added more pain for the rivals to ensure a 26-0 halftime lead.

Within a minute of resumption, Mukidza kicked over a penalty to extend the lead to 29-0 to kill off any comeback attempt

by Homeboyz. Some individual brilliance by Alvin Otieno in the 65th minute saw Bush Mwale score a try for Homeboyz.

Two successive lineouts in the 75th and 80th minutes resulted in Amonde and Allan Omuka adding two tries for KCB. The bankers are sit joint top with Nakuru on 43 points.

TO PLAY FOR JACKPOT, SMS TO 79079: JP#XNEWS#13 predictions E.G: JP#XNEWS#1X2X1XX2212X1 YOU WIN WHEN ALL YOUR 13 PREDICTIONS ARE CORRECT. JACKPOT IS EQUALLY SHARED AMONGST ALL WINNERS.

Elsewhere, Nondescript ended a four-match winless run by edging out playoffs contenders Kabras Sugar 18-16 at Kakamega showground. Mwamba were beaten 24-12 by Nakuru.

Pan Africa Strathmore Leos sit third on 40 points even after a 3215 win over Kenya Harlequins.

Kenya Cup Results KCB 41 Homeboyz 5, Western Bulls 84 Mombasa 0, Kabras Sugar 16 Nondies 18, Catholic Monks 5 Mean Machine 17, Strathmore 31 Quins 15, Blak Blad 7 Impala 68, Top Fry Nakuru 24 Mwamba 12.

brilliant: Some individual brilliance by Alvin Otieno in the 65th minute saw Bush Mwale score a try for Homeboyz at KCB grounds.

Lang’at reigns at Prisons event Philip Lang’at was crowned new champion as Cynthia Cherotich defended her title in the Kenya Prisons Service cross-country championships at Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi.

Lang’at registered 35:46.7 to win the men’s race ahead of Vincent Rono who clocked 36:01.5.

Seasoned road racer Cornelius Kangogo took the last podium

position in 36:7.3.

Cherotich, a trainee wardress, shrugged off opposition from Nancy Nzisa to successfully retain her title from last year.

Cherotich, who represented Prison Staff Training College, clocked 27:00.5 to claim honours in the 8km race. Marathon legend Catherine Ndereba finished 41st. Nzisa crossed the

white line 42 seconds behind Cherotich as Viola Chepchumba of Rift Valley Province rounded up the podium in 27:50.0.

Last year’s first runners-up John Mwangangi failed to secure a top six position.

Mwangangi will have to seek qualification at the national championships from county races.

0755 079 079 0709 079 079

14

SPORT MONDAY, JANUARY 26, 2015

Gunners survive Brighton scare The FA Cup produced another boisterous, thrilling, ultimately frantic fourth-round tie, as Arsenal managed to look both supremely well-tuned in attack and familiarly brittle at the back in the course of this defeat of Brighton & Hove Albion.

With four minutes left, Brighton might even have had a penalty to level the scores as the ball was struck against Calum Chambers’ hand. Short of a pre-emptive amputation it was hard at the time to see how Chambers could have avoided the ball. Afterwards Chris Hughton, Brighton’s manager, was adamant that Chambers’ arm had appeared, with benefit of a replay, to be “outstretched”.

It was in more ways than one the perfect start. The big news in Arsenal’s starting XI was a widely predicted first start in over a year for Walcott, a first start since October for Özil, and a first start for the two in each other’s company since December 2013. This is, of course, still a footballing bromance-thatmight-have-been, with a general assumption that Özil and Walcott’s pooled gifts – sublime passing, exhilarating speed – must eventually bring the best out of one another.

In the minutes after Walcott’s goal Arsenal did look supremely fluent, with Özil, playing just behind Olivier Giroud, finding plenty of space between the lines and Walcott showing undimmed speed and

MAN OF THE MATCH: Arsenal’s Thomas Rosicky celebrates with teammates after netting Arsenal’s third goal against Brighton in their FA Cup clash yesterday.

Arsenal won the match 3-2 to advance to the next round.

encouraging aggression in the challenge during an explosive if understandably scattergun performance. The second goal was coming and it duly arrived.

Tomas Rosicky meandered in off the left flank, waited for a gap to appear and nudged a lovely reverse pass into Özil’s run.

The touch was instant, and the low shot cleverly angled across Stockdale to make it 2-0.

With Rohan Ince and Danny Hollas getting a grip of central midfield the sense of a familiar vulnerability behind Arsenal’s attacking fluency was confirmed five minutes into the second half as Brighton pulled a goal back helped by a horrible piece of defending. Under little pressure, Kieran Gibbs hoofed a clearance into the evening sky that landed near the edge of the Arsenal area.

Aaron Ramsey was bullied by Baldock into chesting the ball into his own area where Chris O’Grady shot low and hard into the corner of the net.

The crowd were roused, but so too were Arsenal and eight minutes later Rosicky made and then scored the goal of the game, winning the ball back and slaloming into space before laying the ball sideways to Giroud: his dinked pass back to Rosicky was volleyed into the corner with thrilling severity. In a fevered second half it was a deliciously self-contained moment of craft from the Czech. “If you love football, you love Rosicky,” Wenger shrugged afterwards.

GEOFFREY Kamworor wins THIRD Police X-Country TITLE Geoffrey Kipsang Kamworor won his third straight Kenya Police National Cross Country title over the weekend at the Ngong Racecourse in Nairobi.

Mathew Kisorio lost his first local race when he was beaten by Kamworor in the men’s 12km race since returning from his dope ban who was taking part in Police games for the first time since 2011 has promised to avenge the loss at the national trial in three weeks.

“Today I was like any other training session because

he (Kamworor) is my friend but at the nationals it will be every man for himself,” said Kisorio who was banned in 2012 for using banned substance.

Kamworor clocked 37:20.1 with Kisorio coming second in 37:38.3.

In the women’s category Stacy Ndiwa beat a host of stars, including double World champion, Vivian Cheruiyot and two time world champion Edna Kiplagat to clinch the women’s 8km race.

Vivian was making her return to action after over

a year break from the track while marathon World Champion Kiplagat finished a distant fifth in the race held at the flat and windy course in Karen.

Ndiwa who clocked 28:31.3 ahead of Janet Kisa (28:33.0) and Cheruiyot who came third in 28:36.9 will parade at the 5000m startline iat the World cross country should they both book a ticket to China.

The national cross country trials on February 14 at the Uhuru Gardens, Nairobi.

FINISH LINE: Geoffrey Kamworor crosses the finish line at the IAAF World Half Marathon Championships held in Copenhagen, March 2014.

Serena Williams beats Muguruza to set up clash with Cibulkova Serena Williams avenged last year’s French Open loss to Garbine Muguruza at the Australian Open, overhauling the hardhitting Spaniard 2-6, 6-3, 6-2 to reach the quarter-finals.

The 24th seed Muguruza stunned Williams in the second round at Roland Garros and another upset looked on the cards as the rising 21-year-old tore through the first set with a barrage of winners from the baseline.

Top seed Williams woke up and her serve, so often her saviour, became almost impenetrable. After saving six break points in a marathon second game of the deciding set, Williams then broke Muguruza twice before sealing the match when her opponent blasted a forehand long.

Williams will play last year’s losing finalist Dominika Cibulkova for a place in the semifinals after the feisty Slovakian scrapped like a streetfighter to grind down two-time champion Victoria Azarenka.

africa cup of nations 2015

SPORT 15 MONDAY, JANUARY 26, 2015

ALL SQUARE: Qualification from Group B will go down to the wire after a 0-0 draw between Democratic Republic of Congo and Cape Verde.

Cape Verde look beyond quarters Cape Verde coach Rui Aguas says reaching the quarter-finals is the “minimum objective” for his side.

A win against Zambia tonight will assure of them of a place and match their achievement from the 2013 tournament.

But Aguas wants to go further. “We will try everything, we have everything in our own hands.

“We want to do better than what we did last time. The minimum objective is to get to the next phase,” he says.

But he is aware his side could be scuppered by their inability to score. They have managed only one goal in their two games, a penalty in the opening 1-1 draw with Tunisia . In their other match they were held 0-0 by Dr Congo.

“Finishing has been a problem for us but we have played two very good games so far. I think we have discovered that we can do better than we have and reach the next round,” Aguas said.

“It has been frustrating and disappoint-

ing not to have won and missing chances means we have just made it more difficult for ourselves. I believe we can do better and score finally in the third game.”

Pogba fires cracker as Juve sink Chievo Paul Pogba scored one goal and created another as Serie A leaders Juventus beat Chievo to stay ahead of Roma.

The Frenchman, who has netted in each of his last four games, opened the scores with a stunning shot from the edge of the box on the hour mark.

He then saw a clever trap and volley saved before Stephan Lichtsteiner poked home.

The win moves the champions to seven points ahead of second placed Roma, who drew 1-1 at Fiorentina on Sunday. Pogba’s performances have

TORMENTORS: Tunisia only require a draw to reach the quarter finals but 2012 winners Zambia face early elimination for a second successive tournament if they do not win the last Group B game tonight. Tunisia beat Zambia 2-1 (above) to go top of Group B.

Tunisia smell quarter final slot Tunisia, the 2004 winners, require only a draw to reach the quarter finals of the African Nations Cup. But 2012 victors Zambia face early exit for a second successive tournament if they fail to win the last Group B game tonight.

Zambia, who lie at the bottom of the pile, must beat the Cape Verde in Ebebiyin to stand any chance of progress to the last eight. And they could be frustrated if the Democratic Republic of Congo win the

game against Tunisia which will be played in Bata.

The scenario would leave the Congolese as group winners with five points and Tunisia and Zambia tied on four. But because Tunisia beat Zambia 2-1 on Thursday, they would qualify.

Zambians’ failure to register a win so far means their fate is no longer in their own hands. And their woes have been worsened by injury to Nathan Sinkala and

Emmanuel Mayuka, who are considered as two of their key players in Equatorial Guinea.

DR Congo also have injury concerns with Premier League duo Yannick Bolasie and Youssouf Mulumbu both doubtful against the Tunisians.

Congo and Equatorial Guinea became the first countries to qualify for the quarter finals as the top two finishers in Group A.

become increasingly influential this season with manager Massimiliano Allegri touting the former Manchester United player as a potential future world player of the year.

Chievo remain in the relegation zone and will be without defender Nicolas Frey for the foreseeable future after he was stretchered off following a clash with Patrice Evra.

Elsewhere, a stoppage-time header from Emiliano Moretti gave Torino their first win at Inter Milan since 1988, leaving the ninth-placed Nerazzurri seven points off the European places.

Villa extend midfielder Fabian Delph’s contract Aston Villa midfielder Fabian Delph has signed a new four-and-a-half-year deal with the club.

The 25-year-old England international was out of contract in the summer but will now stay at the Premier League side until at least 2019.

“I am a loyal person and committing my future will hopefully show everybody what type of guy I am,” he said.

Delph, who joined Villa from Leeds in 2009, had been linked with moves to Liverpool, Everton and Tottenham.

He has made 12 league appearances

for Villa this season and also made his England debut in a 1-0 friendly win against Norway in August.

“There was no way I was going to bail out. I am here for the long run,” said Delph.

“The fans have been the same. I’m sure they will stick with us, help us get through this season and then looking into the future, it looks promising to me.”

Villa boss Paul Lambert described keeping Delph at the club as a “great coup”.

xnews | monday, 26 january 2015 | www.x-news.co.ke

africa cup of nations 2015 cape verde islands looking beyond afcon 2015 quarters. read P15

eq.guinea, congo reach quarters Hosts wipe out neighbours gabon to reach knockouts Equatorial Guinea reached the African Nations Cup quarter-finals after second-half goals by Javier Balboa and the substitute Iban Salvador gave them a 2-0 win over Gabon in a pulsating Group A game on Sunday.

Equatorial Guinea, the lowest-ranked team in the tournament, went through as Group A. runners-up behind Congo.

Congo reached the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time since 1992 by topping Group A. Congo needed a draw to progress and went ahead when Thierry Bifouma swept home Ferebory Dore’s cross.

Burkina Faso required a win and offered little until the last 10 minutes when Aristide Bance scored at the far post.

Striker Javier Balboa made it 1-0 with a 55th-minute penalty after he had been fouled by Lloyd Palun.

And the tournament hosts added another when substitute Salvador Iban slotted home a rebound from striker Emilio Nsue’s shot.

While Equatorial Guinea rose to the challenge, having gone into the game knowing only a win would send them into the knockout stages, Gabon were unable to raise their level when they

needed to and paid for a cautious start.

Gabon will reflect on what might have been had Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s powerful header not been superbly kept out by Equatorial Guinea keeper Ovono in the best chance of a lacklustre first half.

Two second-half free-kicks in quick succession offered the Gabonese opportunities to assert some control but Equatorial Guinea keeper Ovono was equal to the efforts from Borussia Dortmund striker Aubameyang and then Charlton’s Frederic Bulot.

It was the hosts who stepped through the gears, Balbo playing a one-two with striker Fabiani Bosio and drawing a foul from Palun. Balboa duly picked himself up to score from the spot-kick.

Equatorial Guinea increased the pressure on the Gabon goal after that.

They got their reward when Valencia teenager Iban tucked his shot away after Nsue’s effort had been saved, sending the home fans into ebullient celebrations and dumping Gabon out of the competition. Now, the side ranked 118th in Fifa’s global list will get at least one more chance to thrill the home fans as they continue on their road to redemption.

FIND THE KEYWORD IN RED AND SMS IT TO 22333 Barua Muganga RINGTONES: 30 KSHS PER DAY Nipe Nafasi You will receive a sms “2 download. . . ”Go to this Glory to Glory link using GPRS or WAP & download your content.

Nanena KENYAN HITS! Adonai KENRAZY Visita, Madtraxx, DNA & Jay A KEN4 Dumbala Remix Zawadi Msaidizi GLORIA MULIRO GM4 Sitalia Tena Fundamentals KT4 KEN WAMARIA Bongo Lala RUFFTONE & GSU RUFF4 Sitalia Tena Mungu Baba Uwepo Wako LIN4 MERCYLINAH Hatarudi Nyuma Milele SHA4 MARION SHAKO Mapenzi Dongo Dongo GERALDINE ODUOR GER4 Solo Ulibeba EN4 EUNICE NJERI Penzi Langu Sobei Cheiso KOS4 EMMY KOSGEI Matokeo Worship You BMF FT MERCY WAIREGI BMF4 Sambaza ALICE KAMANDE KAM4 Born Again Defender DAD4 Lingala Ya Yesu DADDY OWEN MOG4 Fanya Kitendo MOG Tosheka Kereka DK4 Muziki Ni Dawa DK KWENYE BEAT Ningwendete VAN4 Makeke JOAN WAIRIMU LK4 Kitanzi Queen LOISE KIM Ahuirania N.D GITHUKA GAK4 Miss Hizo Ti Mundu BETTY BAYO & MR SEED BET4 Naona Mbali Ndirakurekie SIMON SIM4 Nime Wasamehe JOAN WAIRIMU Kinyukia Kahora VAN4 Hakuna Silaha

Ex: HC4 to 22333

BAHATI DJ LAPOZE JEMMO & DENNO BEN GITHAE HADASSAH PAUL EMMA OMONGE MASSMASILYA LAURENT MUGISHO MR. BISCUIT SIMON KIDUM & JULIANI KIDUM NGANGALITO KIDIS GLORIA MULIRO EKO DYDDA PITSON BEN GITHAE RINGTONE JIMMY GAIT GLORIA M & WILLY P ALA C DENNO SOLOMON MUKUBWA SARAH KIARIE

TIB4 HC4 GON4 GIT4 WT4 JC4 HOB4 HOK4 JAG4 SIM4 DUM4 DUM4 LIT4 PIG4 GM4 KEB4 BOM4 GIT4 RING4 JG4 GM4 ALA4 GON4 SOL4 SK4

This is a subscription service. Cost per message is KSH30. Content Delivered daily. A Joining fee of KSH30 applies.

Phone must be WAP/GPRS ENABLED to download ringtones. Errors will be billed. To DEACTIVATE OR UNSUBSCRIBE, SMS STOP followed by the keyword i.e. STOP HC4 to 22333 or *100#. A deactivation fee of KES 30 wil be charged unless passive deactivation is requested.Customer Support: 0711035333 or 0734488668 , SUN - FRI, 8:30AM - 6pm, SAT 9am - 5pm. or email: ke@smshelp.info.

today’s MatcHes Cape Verde IslandsVs ZaMBIa

nuevo estadio de ebebiyín

9pM Congo drVs TunIsIa

estadio de Bata 9pM

JOB DONE: Javier Balboa of Equatorial Guinea is surrounded by team mates after he scored. Second-half goals from him and the substitute Iban Salvador gave them a 2-0 win over Gabon in a pulsating Group A clash.

blatter calls for uefa to show ‘courage’ and challenge him as head of world football Fifa president Sepp Blatter (pictured) has accused Uefa of lacking the “courage” to challenge his leadership. The 78-year-old is bidding for a fifth term as head of football’s world governing body and has urged Uefa to put someone up against him or be “respectful” of his wish to continue. Three candidates - Jerome Champagne, Prince Ali and David Ginola - have said they will stand against him in May. “All those who want to get rid of me should come,” Blatter said. Michel Platini, president of European governing body Uefa, has called for his Fifa counterpart Blatter to be replaced but will not stand himself. Blatter, who has been in charge of Fifa since 1998 said: “All this opposition is coming now, it’s unfortunate to say - but it’s true - it’s coming from Uefa.

“They don’t have the courage to come in. So let me go [on] - be respectful.”

Zlatan ibrahimovic breaks scoring duck as psg beat st Étienne

Zlatan Ibrahimovic scored for the first time in five Ligue 1 games to keep Paris St Germain in pursuit of the leaders Lyon. But the Sweden international needed a penalty awarded in the 60th minute to break the deadlock against St Etienne at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.

The St Etienne midfielder Jérémy Clément was adjudged to have handled the ball and Ibrahimovic coolly dispatched the spot kick past Stéphane Ruffier after first removing debris that had been thrown on to the pitch.

Moments earlier Ibrahimovic, who had

been kept quiet in the first half, was denied by the legs of Ruffier after he had latched on to a fine pass from the midfielder Marco Verratti.

Ibrahimovic, who had scored the winning goal against St Etienne on the same ground in the League Cup quarter-finals two weeks ago, missed another chance in the 70th minute when he rushed his shot.

Five minutes later Edinson Cavani hit the crossbar with a neat lob.

The win kept PSG within four points of the leaders Lyon.

Published By Xtra Publishing Limited, Chancery Building, Valley Road, Nairobi | Printed By The Star, Lion Place, Waiyaki Way, Nairobi.