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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015 | www.x-news.co.ke

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NEWS

openda tips national hockey team for uruguay success

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A

Milimani Law Courts magistrate B M Nzakyo where prosecution asked for more time to complete investigations. The court allowed police to hold the suspect for 14 days as they piece together the charges, including murder.

Muchai was gunned down on Saturday morning at

comedian obinna ike igwee says he is ready for the world

ak to conduct doping seminar ahead of cross-country meet

Muchai murder suspect in court man police believe took part in last week’s killing of Kabete MP George Muchai and his three aides was today arraigned in court as police intensify investigations into the murder.

Simon Wambugu Gikamba, 20, appeared before

all hail the chief

the Uhuru Highway-Kenyatta Avenue roundabout in Nairobi alongside his driver and two bodyguards.

Gikamba is among three “prime suspects” who have since been arrested in connection with the murder, Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Nkaissery said.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

P.8

Not so modest

Born-again singer Ringtone unveils Sh1million number plates on his Range Rover, banishes haters to hell

P.9

Weekend plan The Nairobi Elegance Affair is on at the Railway Museum. See which other events are lined up for the weekend

P.10

Closet raid SUSPECT: Simon Wambugu Gikamba, 20, when he appeared at the Milimani Commercial Courts in Nairobi in connection with the murder of Kabete MP George Muchai. Police were allowed to detain him at the Central Police Station for another 14 days in order to complete investigations.

Ingred Awuor, who runs a fashion boutique called Blackdust Fashions, shows us some of her best pieces

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NEWS FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015

Muchai murdersuspect in court From Page 1

The suspects were all arrested in Limuru on Wednesday. Detectives are also on the trail of a woman believed to be an accomplice of the gang. She is said to be hiding the guns the gang use in their criminal activities.

Police are also keen on recovering the pistols and other valuables stolen from

the victims.

The gang is also said to have been involved in a number of carjackings on the fateful night and Nkaissery expressed optimism that investigators will unravel the motives behind the killings.

“They have so far covered significant ground and made good progress. We

now know the killers carjacked a driver in Kangemi on Friday night at about 10pm and an hour later, the same group carjacked another vehicle, a Toyota Spacio, with two women in Wangige.

The Spacio was used at the time of the murder,” Nkaissery said yesterday.

“Investigators are in hot pursuit of other suspects. I urge you all to be patient and

allow us complete investigations,” he said.

Muchai was set to be laid to rest today at his Kamulu home along Kangundo Road on the outskirts of Nairobi.

At his memorial service at Kanyiriri, Kabete constituency, on Thursday, President Uhuru Kenyatta said Muchai was killed because of his war against

corruption and promised to help bring the killers to book.

Muchai, 66, was a businessman and long serving trade unionist. He was the Vice Secretary General of Cotu at the time of death.

He successfully vied for the Kabete parliamentary seat in the 2013 General Elections.

Facebook new settings to delete user’s data after death Facebook has added new settings that give users the option of having an account permanently deleted on their death.

Or if they so wish, they can choose to appoint a friend or family member to take control of some aspects of the account after they pass on.

The features were among the most requested by users who gave feedback on its memorial page policies.

The legacy contact feature will initially be available only in US. Announcing the new feature, Facebook said: “When a person passes away, their account can become a memorial of their life, friendships and experience.

“By talking to people who have experienced loss, we realised there is more we can do to support those who are grieving and those who want a say in what happens to their account after death.”

If a user chooses to allow someone to run their page in the event of death, the person will be able to write a post to display at the top of the memorialised timeline. They

voxpop....

can also respond to new friend requests and update the profile picture and cover photo.

Users can also choose to give their legacy contact permission to download an archive of photos, posts and profile information they shared on Facebook.

Other settings will remain the same. The legacy contact will not be able to log in as the person who died or access private messages.

Facebook has been seeking ways of helping families remember loved ones after a series of high-profile cases in which people wanted to access pages of dead relatives.

In one instance, a father wanted to create a video using Facebook’s Look Back feature which brings together popular moments on a person’s profile.

But because he could not access his son’s profile, he was unable to create one.

Facebook said it would create one on behalf of his dead son and promised that they would look again at how to help families in similar circumstances.

SOCIAL HIGHWAY: Majority of Kenyans have increased their activities on social media sites, such as Facebook.

Government plans to phase out 14-seater matatus by the end of the year. Is this is a wise move?

Angela Makau

Daniel Macharia I support the Government venture because small matatus are usually the cause of road accidents.

They also worsen traffic jams.

Caroline Mwongela It is a wise move by the Government. The 14-seater matatus create traffic problems by using roads that are not on their approved routes and usually overload passengers.

Dickson James It is a good thing because the use of big buses will help reduce decongestion on the roads. People will reach their destinations faster than is the case on the roads now.

Yes and no. On one hand, small matatus reach some places buses on their usual routes do not pass.

This helps many commuters. On the other hand, removing the 14-seaters from roads could reduce traffic jams.

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NEWS FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015

Agony of Eastleigh, Mlango Kubwa residents extorted by vigilantes

VIGILANTE MENACE: A street scene of Eastleigh 1st Avenue. Former mungiki members have allegedly regrouped to breath fresh life into the dreaded sect and are harassing residents of Mlango Kubwa and Eastleigh.

Residents of Mlango Kubwa and Eastleigh have been force to contend with vigilante groups as former mungiki members have regrouped to breath fresh life into the dreaded sect.

Another vigilante group known as “Super Power” has taken control of large places of Eastleigh as police officers stationed at Pangani grapple to contain run away insecurity in the two estates.

Residents of Mlango Kubwa who agreed to talk to X News on assurance of anonymity for fear of their security said they fear being robbed and sometimes even being killed for non-cooperation.

“The former mungiki youth have now turned into security agencies forcing us to remit Sh200 per month as payment for the group, failure to which they will robe you of your valuables in daytime and in the extremes kill you,” one of them said.

He said the sect members have reemerged as security agencies for fear of the crackdown on mungiki’s like the one between 2008 and 2012 in which many of their numbers were killed.

Residents blame the Pangani police officers whom they claim are colluding with the gangs and sharing the residents’ remittances The super power in Eastleigh majorly terrorises residents from the Somali community in the area, where they robe them their valu-

ables. The group unlike their colleagues in Mlango Kubwa does not charge the monthly Sh200.

Kamukunji MP Yusuf Hassan says that he is privy to the existence of the super power group but noted that religious leaders are addressing the issue warning that the young men in these groups should not be condemned but should be talked to, to stop the behaviors.

A survivor of the gangs’ activities narrates how she was robbed of her valuables “a group of young men stopped me along Muratina road at 5pm, on my way home.

They threatened me with blood smeared knife to silently give them all that I had and if I dared scream they would kill me and nothing would happen to them” However police spokesman Masoud Mwinyi says that probably the matter is under the investigations of the pangani police station but blames the locals for accepting to pay the dues as noting the habit is a promotion of vigilantism.

“Vigilantism is prohibited by the law. The public should report these members to the police station and if they feel that the matter will not be adequately addressed by the nearby station, or fear risking their lives, should use the police hierarchy to air their grievances”, said Masoud. The spokesman added the police is in promotion of public participation in security but only if adopted by the locals.

47 soldiers killed by rebels in Myanmar Days of clashes with ethnic rebels in northern Myanmar have left 47 government soldiers dead and dozens more wounded, state media reported Friday.

The fighting with the Kokang rebels began Monday in the town of Laukkai, near the border with China, the state-run newspaper The Global New Light of Myanmar said.

It reported that a total of 73 government troops had been wounded in the clashes between Monday and Thursday but didn’t provide any information about casualties among the rebels.

The Kokang guerilla forces “were found to be good at military maneuvering with the use of scores of heavy weapons including anti-aircraft machine guns,” the report said.

Multiple ethnic groups in Myanmar are seeking greater autonomy. Violence continues to erupt in some of the long-standing conflicts despite government efforts in recent years to reach a peace agreement.

The state-run newspaper reported Friday that government forces had eventually thwarted the Kokang rebels’ efforts to capture Laukkai and that situation in the town

had since returned to normal.

CNN couldn’t independently verify the reports’ claims.

The fighting in Laukkai this week drove some residents of the area across the border into China’s Yunnan province, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said Tuesday.

“We hope that relevant parties in northern Myanmar can resolve their differences via continuing to uphold peaceful talks and prevent the clashes from escalating and affecting border stability,” Hua Chunying, a spokeswoman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, told reporters.

WATCHING YOU: Ethnic Kokang soldiers stand outside a deserted market in Shan state, Myanmar. Days of clashes with ethnic rebels in northern Myanmar have left 47 government soldiers dead and dozens more wounded.

WHAT OTHERS SAID TODAY...

Kibaki Sh4.6b library gift to Makerere University: Former President Mwai Kibaki will today become the first head of state to build a presidential library at his alma mater, or university where he once studied. The multibillion-shilling facility is at Makerere University, Uganda. According to information released by the the universit on Monday, the library will cost $50million (Sh4.

5billion). Of thi, $40 million will go to the Presidential library amd $10 million to the Mwai Kibaki-endowed Chair in Economics.Kibaki was the first african to graduate with distinction in BSc...

‘Chicken’ men sent to jail by UK court: Pressure is mounting for the government to act after the directors of a British company were Thursday jailed for bribing Kenyan officials.

Nicholas Charles Smith, 43, was jailed for three years by the Southwark Crown court for bribing officials of the Interim Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission and the Kenya National Examinations Council bosses so as to get printing contracts. Smith’s father, Christopher John Smith, 71, was sentenced to 18 months suspended term for his role in the scandal...

Muchai murder suspects face judge; Wambora hit Embu Govenor Martin Wambora lost his seat for the second time yesterday after the High Court sitting in Nairobi dismissed his petition challenging his impeachment last year. But in a twist characteristic of the governor’s nine-lives political history, the same court suspended its decision only 15 minutes after delivering it in the court of Appeal. The court suspended their decision for 14 days, meaning Wambora will continue holding office for that period as he prepares his appeal...

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Main STORY

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 91.4906 91.6183 91.5544 139.3522 139.5822 139.4672 103.5050 103.6700 103.5875 7.7080 7.7227 7.7154 31.2929 31.4459 31.3694 19.8868 19.0239 19.9554

Higher spirits uptake push EABL profits to record Sh4.6b East African Breweries Limited has posted 11 per cent increase in net profit from Sh4.1 billion in 2013 to Sh4.6 billion in 2014.

The company attributed the increase to growth in uptake of sprits, premium beer, ready to drink beverages and better returns from Tanzania.

The improvement was also attributed to exports of the company’s products.

Group Managing Director Charles Ireland said gross profit also increased by nine

per cent from 15.7 billion in 2013 to 17.1 billion in 2014.

“The growth of nine per cent in gross profit was supported by focus to drive out costs with Sh1.3 billion savings realised from improved raw materials usage, low heavy oil fuel prices and greater production efficiencies,” said Ireland.

He said even with currency challenges affecting the region, net sales in Uganda grew by seven per cent and three in Kenya. Tanzania net

sales increased by 17 pc.

“Performance for the half year reflects the strength of business and our brands. We are pleased to have delivered the results despite the tough and unpredictable business environment. Our response to the challenges, through innovation; focus on cost and increased efficiencies has paid off,” Ireland said.

The group announced an interim dividend of Sh1.50 per share to be paid on or about April 14, 2015.

profit drivers: EABL chief executive Charles Ireland says better profits were realised due to high spirits uptake, low heavy oil fuel prices and greater production efficiencies.

HSBC tax evasion investigation widens

scandal-torn: HSBC’s wealthy clients were helped to evade tax by the company’s accountants as the bank workers offered clients deals and helped culprits stay ahead of the law.

GLOBE WATCH Sony Pictures Entertainment and Marvel Studios have announced that Sony will finally let Marvel use famous character, Spider-Man,in their films.

The two world-renowned studios have said Spider-Man, a character who belonged to Sony under a previous deal, will soon appear in a Marvel film from Marvel’s Cinematic Universe (MCU).

History Sony bought the rights to exclusively use Spider-Man in their films close to 15 years ago.

The move meant Marvel Studios could not use the character in their movies

The UK tax authorities are set to expand investigations into the Swiss tax accounts held with HSBC, Britain’s biggest bank.

The HM Revenue and Customs will meet police and Serious Fraud Office in the course of the week in what is seen as a serious escalation of the scandal.

Britain MPs accused the tax officials of failing to deal with the matter adequately, saying there was a lack of urgency in tackling the HSBC scandal.

HSBC’s wealthy clients were helped to evade tax by the company’s accountants.

More than 100,000 accounts that were leaked by a whistle-blower showed that bankers offered clients deals and helped evaders stay ahead of the law.

HMRC chief executive Lin Homer denied

claims she had failed to take firm action against UK citizens hiding money in HSBC accounts in Geneva.

She said there had been only one prosecution of someone whose hidden accounts in Switzerland had been revealed despite there being over 3,600 UK citizens involved.

She said most of the information leaked was incomplete or dirty data but had managed to recover £135million (Sh18.8 billion) from the cases that they had pursued.

Ms Homer said they were also planning to broaden the range of its enquiries and meet UK authorities of HSBC bank over the course of the week.

Marvel to use Spider-Man in their films

although he is integral to an interconnected list of films under their production.

Spider-Man is the most successful franchise in the history of Sony Pictures.

The character’s five films have earned more than $4 billion (Sh367 billion) in worldwide sales.

Marvel, which is owned by Walt Disney, has been fighting for rights to the iconic comic book character.

It has in the recent past offered billions of dollars for the right to feature him in their films.

But Sony executives refused to sell the

rights until the Spider-Man films they were producing started performing poorly at the box office.

With the rights to use Spider-man in Marvel’s hands, their carefully crafted pool of movies is likely to expand.

Bob Iger, Chairman and CEO, Walt Disney Company, said: “Spider-Man is one of Marvel’s great characters..... We’re thrilled to work with Sony Pictures to bring the iconic web-slinger into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which opens up fantastic new opportunities for storytelling and franchise building.”

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BUSINESS FRIDAY, FEBRUARY13, 2015

Banana farming promises higher returns thanks to TechnoServe GOING TRULY BANANAS: Banana farmers in Sabasaba, Murang’a County. They have established Sabasaba Agribusiness Centre which has been made possible through a partnership between AGRA and TechnoServe.

Bananas are now some of the leading farm commodities in terms of returns among farmers both in the local and international markets.

In fact, recent findings show that they are even overtaking traditional crops.

Kenya has over 400,000 small holder banana farmers with 1.7 per cent of Kenya’s total arable land dedicated to the crop.

Over 85 per cent of East Africans rely on bananas for income and food with the global market for the crop totalling some $ 5 billion (Sh458 billion) a year.

TechnoServe has however come to change the game in the banana industry.

“In the beginning, most of the farmers didn’t think it was possible to turn banana into a cash crop,” explains Henry Kinyua, Business Manager

Equity Group debuts in Rwandan bourse In a bid to spread its presence across the region, Equity Bank has been listed at the Rwanda Stock Exchange at a value of Sh0.50 (Rwf3.76) per share.

Speaking at a bell ringing ceremony witnessed by Rwanda President, Paul Kagame, Equity Group Holdings Managing Director James Mwangi welcomed the bank’s customers and partners in Rwanda to acquire the firm’s shares.

“This is a momentous occasion for Equity Group Holdings, as we invite and extend an opportunity to the local investors a chance to share in our success as part owners of East and Central Africa leading financial services provider,” said Mwangi.

Mwangi added the main reason for cross listing was to avail shares to the wider East

African market and localize the brand.

“The cross listing will provide an easy and efficient way for our stakeholders and partners in Rwanda to participate beneficially in the growth and fortunes of the Company through partial ownership.

This is in addition to the several efforts being made by the Group to localize the brand and customize services to better serve the people of Rwanda,” he said.

Rwanda Stock Exchange Chief Executive Officer, Pierre Rwabukumba was happy with the listing and welcomed the Group to the Rwandan bourse.

“We are very excited at the performance of the banking sector which now features three listed securities following the entry of Equity Group Holdings,” Rwabukumba said.

WELCOME: Rwanda Finance Minister Claver Gatete (left) Equity Group Holdings MD Dr James Mwangi and Rwanda Stock Exchange CEO Celestin Rwabukumba (right) symbolically rings the bell to confirm start of Equity Group Holdings.

BUSINESS WISE

Small businesses use tricks of trade to compete with hawkers Competition is one of the major challenges to any small business owners. In which case, low prices from rival enterprises, and hawkers in particular, are a major cause for concern among business owners in Nairobi.

A team of researchers from Daystar University found that 23.7 per cent out of a sample of small business owners in Nairobi were plagued by hawkers and their low prices.

By simply marking down the cost of their goods, these street vendors can cash in on consumers who would otherwise shop at a stall or a boutique. Worse still is the fact that they station themselves outside such shops or merely a few meters from businesses selling similar goods. “As a response to this challenge, 15 per cent of the businesses that face this problem reported that they sell cheaper than the hawkers while another

15 per cent said they sell goods of a higher quality,” explains Daystar University researcher, Samuel Mureithi and his team of experts. They discovered that some small business owners use competitive pricing strategy to counter the hawkers. And despite the allure of hawkers, the team says that “there is also a sense of security experienced by customers when they deal with a trader who has a physical location.”

of TechnoServe, an organisation that promotes business solutions to tackle rural poverty.

The first step was to encourage farmers to establish producer groups and work together, rather than as sole traders. TechnoServe and its partners then trained member farmers in simple techniques for improving production, harvesting and handling.

The organisation also helped flush out the middlemen from the banana value chain. “From the farmer to the consumer there could be up to six or seven intermediaries,” Kinyua explains, “the majority of whom were opportunistic and had no long-term view of the industry.”

By linking the producer groups directly to banana wholesalers, farmers were able to take a larger share of the returns.

BUSINESS NEWS EIB , PTA Bank partner to launch Sh15b lending program in Africa New companies and budding enterprises are set to benefit from a € 150 million (Sh15.6 billion) loan as the European Investment Bank (EIB) partners with PTA bank to support investments in over 12 African countries.

The money is part of a new lending programme that will see businesses secure foreign currency, CNBC Africa reports. EIB is the world’s largest public lender and owned directly by European Union member states.

Pat Walsh, a Director at EIB said that the aim of the programme is to, “help finance new companies that want to expand. With the view to promote innovation, create jobs and poverty alleviation.”

The initiative is also expected to offer both foreign and local currency long-term loans for a wide range of sectors, making it the largest lending initiative ever by the EIB in Africa.

Moreover, firms interested in the lending programme will have to contact PTA offices in their local country to see how they can apply and what needs to be done. Some of these countries include Kenya, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Mozambique and Zambia.

The EIB has been working closely with leading banks and financial institutions across Africa. Last year, the lender provided 1.1 billion euros (Sh114 billion) for investment in sub-Saharan Africa.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015

ACCESS

Comedian, musician, radio presenter and proud father. Obinna’s mission is to make people laugh. Known by his signature phrase, Waampoto, the award-winning entertainer says he is ready for the world but is the world ready for him?

W

ho is Obinna?

Obinna is a person who makes people laugh for a living.

He is a funny guy, he sings sometimes, he dances anytime, and he is easy to talk to.

Why comedy, how did you get into it?

I started out in 2010. I used to do music first but I was being paid really little. So I had to start doing comedy.

Tell us about your music...

I was a dancehall artiste but nobody used to pay any attention. Now I am doing Afro beat. I love music and I will continue to do more music because I am doing it for me. My first song was Igwe which was an introduction to the market to tell people who Obinna is. My second song, Let Me Go was to show a softer side of me even though I am an ‘Igwe’. I recently released a new song D i g i

factfile Real Name: Obinna Ike Igwee Relationship Status: Complicated Age: 24 Best Food: Anything with beef anytime Best Book: Gifted Hands by Ben Carson Best Quote: Always stay hungry- Jalang’o Ideal Woman: Nicki Minaj (I know the body is fake, but who cares.)

hot toPICs

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Digi with Nebulazz.

Tell us about Digi Digi with Nebulazz.

That song is crazy and fun. It is about dancing. Now, the problem with Kenyans is that they view dancing in different ways. When we mention twerk they start having evil thoughts!

Twerking is dancing. I am singing about dancing because I don’t want to sing about negative stuff, you will never hear me sing about poverty.

What challenges did you face when starting out?

When you get into comedy in Kenya people don’t just accept you. There is a window period of six months to one year where Kenyans are still trying to figure out what you are doing. There is also a lot of criticism, Kenyans are good at that. They go on twitter, Facebook and Instagram and say bad things instead of telling you how to improve your craft. Then lastly, getting the right management is a big challenge. Kenya does not have good artiste managers. I need to be able to concentrate on being funny and creative without worrying about booking studio time and interviews.

Who do you look up to in the industry?

Kevin Hart, that guy is amazing his hustle is serious. Locally I look up to Jalang’o he is trustworthy and very hardworking.

What do you think about the state of Kenyan comedy right now?

Comedy is at a good place right now. However, some

OBINNA Ike Igwee

comedians need to stop under quoting and spoiling the business. Comedy in Kenya is well paying it pays my bills and funds my music. I do music for fun.

How do you get inspiration for your jokes/songs/ performances?

Life.

Jokes come from life experiences, you can be in a lift and inspiration hits you. You need to go to places be on the ground and research to get your content. Comedians need to be open minded and be everywhere.

You have three children. There have been rumours about baby mama issues. Can you clarify that?

I have a son and two daughters who all have different mothers. I am a proud father, I take my role in my children’s life very seriously.

Are you dating?

Currently no. It is complicated.

You know women are very tricky, I might think we are dating and maybe she has friend zoned me. You never know!

What qualities do you look for in a woman?

She must know how to cook. Cooking wins me over. She has to be friendly because I have very many friends.

She has to be open minded. The woman I date must be loyal because I roll with a lot of rogues who when I leave the room can pounce on my girl. Lastly she must be a mature woman.

Obinna is currently running a twerking competition on instagram. The video which gets the most likes wins a Sh10,000 cash prize. Upload your twerk video to his song Digi Digi and get a chance to win. He is also in the cast of Nation FM mid-morning presenters and can be caught OFFSIDE every Friday on NTV.

Is ready for the world Wema Sepetu and Ommy Dimpoz’s bedtime stories Photos of Diamond’s Ex Wema and his good friend Dimpoz have surfaced on social media. The most recent one with Wema posting a photo of her and Ommy Dimpoz in bed. When asked, Dimpoz said that they were just photos and nothing was going on. In a radio interview, the musician denied claims that they were dating saying they are just friends.

Do friends sleep together nowadays?

Blitz in Kenya for exclusive bash

New York based Ghanian Hip hop artiste MC Blitz will be in Kenya for a special listening party on February 18. The listening party will be hosted by Nairobi Rhapsody, which previously brought in Talib Kweli. Blitz is known world over for his music.

He is currently on a tour of Africa, which will take him to Zanzibar, Kenya and Ghana. Kenyans will be among the first to hear the artiste’s latest unreleased album, Diasporadical.

BONUS

CELEBCHAT

fashion scoop

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ACCESS

WEDNESDAY 26th NOVEMBER 2014 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015

SHOPPING

Get Off the Beaten Path.

Shoe shops, for the shoe aficionado, are available at Ridgeways.

Shoe Palace, a lovely shoe shop, has a wide variety of stock but its constrained space gives it a cramped appearance.

Ridgeways mall

A

visit to the Ridgeways, Mall, along Kiambu Road, confirms that it is an oasis sitting in the midst of untrained surroundings.

The mall consists of three separate plazas; a main plaza that houses the supermarket, the food court and a smaller one with retail stores and shops.

Right from the entrance, it is easy to see that Ridgeways targets a certain section of the public. The caliber of stores found inside it confirms this.

From the height of the gate, the central parking lot cuts an attractive figure especially because the road leading to it can be considered unsightly in some sections.

The primary outline of the parking lot is divided into sections by greenery placed at strategic points creating the illusion of space and openness.

The little valley that the mall is located in produces a sort of nook that gives Ridgeways

HOT TOPICS

Mall an exclusive feel. This mall earns itself bonus points as being the only shopping centre with the convenience of a car repair workshop on location in case your vehicle needs some upkeep. Auto Express, a leading brand in car part supplies and tire care in Kenya for a number of years, has a branch at the mall. They provide tires, wheels, batteries, suspension parts and can also give your vehicle a tune up by offering alignment, lubrication and suspension. Clothes shops, as with most malls, take up a majority of the floor space. Eugen Klein, a clothing store for women on the go, is situated on the ground floor and it sells bags, garments, shoes and accessories. Rimi, caters to men’s fashion requirements, with everything from belts, shoes and bags in supply. Two stores stand out from the pack though; XXL Clothing, which deals in attire for plus size women on the first floor and Cuddly Tots, which sells children’s clothes, shoes

femione’s new song Rapper Femione has released a new song Karata featuring DJ JR Kaka Empire. In the song, the young rapper freestyles to beats of songs from artistes like, Jaguar, E-sir and Mr. Lenny, Prezzo, Juacali, Sauti Sol, Kantai, Ceasar and Rabbit.

Will it hit or miss?

and school items in an intensely colourful package.

Another staple with modern malls is a Maasai market and Ridgeways Mall is no exception. There is a mini-Maasai Market at the entrance of the supermarket that is well stocked, although relatively small compared to those in other malls.

Shoe shops, for the shoe aficionado, are also available at Ridgeways. Shoe Palace a lovely shoe shop has a wide variety of stock but constrained space gives it a cramped appearance— they should borrow some space from Bata!

The usual suspects Creamy Inn, Pizza Inn and Galitos promise to effectively take care of your raging hunger pangs.

There is a kids’ play area right next the food court which will give parents some respite and entertain children during shopping and the charming Paradise Café has a home here.

The famous Scotchie’s, a sports

bar and lounge is located at the mall. The ambience of the pub is laid back and ahs more lounge than bar. But still remains popular with sports fans. Menu choices at the bar do need to expand though and the prices certainly need to be reviewed.

Salons and hair care facilities at the mall are a nice mix. From the very pretty Family Hive Salon, Spa and Barber that can treat the whole family to Serenity Spa that offers massages, facials, manicures, pedicures and body scrubs.

Healthcare services are provided

by Healthy U, a health food store dealing in vitamins, jams, pulses, dried fruit, flours and even protein supplements for body builders, and Mimosa Pharmacy. Both stores have excellent stock but are still small in size, which unfortunately appears to be a running theme at Ridgeways.

There are a number of notable novelty shops that deserve a mention. Cycle Buzz stocks toy

cars, bicycles, remote controlled cars and other trinkets in a tiny shop in the third plaza, while Baby House will make designing your child’s room a breeze with their custom, colourful kids’ furniture.

All major banks have ATMs at the mall, among them Chase Bank, Equity, Ecobank, Co-operative Bank, Standard Chartered and Barclays Bank.

The first floor hallway is a beautiful sight but there is no elevator in the mall, which results in no elevator experience to remark on.

In addition there are no emergency exits that can be easily spotted at the mall posing a potential risk.

The traffic along the highway tends to be testing, especially on the weekends, which are peak operating days for most malls.

The upcoming Ciata City Mall is bound to offer some competition but Ridgeways Mall, with its appealing façade, was built for vanity and in that arena, it will reign for some time

Ringtone brags about personalised plates Gospel artiste Ringtone yesterday unveiled his personalised number plates on his brand new Range Rover. The Pamela singer posted the photo on Instagram showing his new purchase.

He captioned the photo, “Am so blessed haters can receive Jesus or go to Hell.” People were quick to lash out at the singer for his extravagance.

ACCESS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015

WEEKENDPLANNER

your comprehensive gig guide.

SUNDAY

TODAY

WLL no 35 Taboo onher5ve

WHERE: Uptown Foods WHEN: 2pm -7pm WHO:Annette Tenaya, Christ Cycoz, DJ Sanch and DJ Double O HOW MUCH: Sh200

WHERE: Creatives Garage WHEN: 6pm WHO: Jim Kroft, DJ Ralf and DJ Zontor HOW MUCH: Sh250 with a book Sh 300 without.

SATURDAY

nAirobi

elegance Affair WHERE: Nairobi Railway Museum WHEN: 10am- 8pm WHO: Terry Watowa, Mary Odhiambo, Sophy Wanjiku HOW MUCH: Invite only.

All stars Love and Laughter WHERE: Hilton Hotel WHEN: 6pm WHO: Owago, Chipukeezy, Fred Omondi, David the Student, Karis, Sleepy HOW MUCH: Sh1,000

Y

ou cannot say you have tasted good pizza unless you have tried out Dominos!

Domino’s’ pizza is just heavenly. So far there are two outlets in Nairobi; One at Fortis Tower in Westlands and the other at the UN Corner in Gigiri.

The ever smiling waiters are quick to get your orders and once in a while will break into song and dance as they work. Apparently, it is in the company’s culture to do so.

There is a screen near the counter

The AfricAn Love WHERE: Pawa 254 on State House Crescent WHEN:6pm- 11pm WHO: Tear Drops, Mistari and Mamra HOW MUCH: Sh1,000 for two

which displays the time it will take for your order to be ready. This is a welcome idea to help calm those incessant pangs especially after smelling the nice aroma emanating from the kitchen.

Foodies have a choice of either the American hand tossed thick crust or the Italian thin crust pizza.

The pizza usually comes heavy on toppings and base sauce. You can choose between four pizza categories depending on your budget.

Classic pizzas are the cheapest with

Domino’s Pizza

Out&about

Two hours of sunset

SATURDAY

SATURDAY

9

SATURDAY WHERE:Ngong Racecourse WHEN: Noon to midnignt WHAT: Fundi-Mentals the movie HOW MUCH: Advance Sh1,000 and Gate Sh1,500

the small going for Sh550, medium Sh750 and large Sh950. Favorite pizzas go for Sh650 (small) , Sh850 (medium) and Sh1050 for large sizes.

Specialty pizzas attract Sh750 (small), Sh950 (medium) and Sh1,150 (large).

The ultimate pizza will set you back Sh850 for a small size, Sh1,050 (medium) and Sh1,250 for the large.

We highly recommend the Swahili chicken, which has extra cheese, sweet corn, coconut, pineapple, chicken and red chilli.

You can also indulge in tantalizing

chicken wings for just Sh700. To add more flavor into your chicken wings or pizza, you can buy dipping sauces for Sh100 and delight your taste buds.

Please try the garlic and herbs dip while at it. A two-litre soda bottle goes for Sh250 while pet sodas are Sh100.

Beer lovers have also been catered for with local beers retailing at Sh250.

A large peri-peri chicken pizza comes with two free Tuskers!

To mark Valentine’s Day this year, the joint will be serving heart shaped pizzas. Sounds like a plan in our books!

… simpLy cAn’T geT enough

10

ACCESS

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015

FASHIONScoop

INgrEd AWuor ruNS A fAShIoN boutIquE (blAckduSt fAShIoNS). ShE IS AlSo A modEl chorEogrAphEr ANd EvENt orgANISEr. ShE lEt uS INto hEr cloSEt ANd WE fouNd It to bE fAbulouSly fIErcE.

How would you describe your fashion style?

Fierce, fabulous, elegant and trendy.

What is your favourite fashion colour?

Blue and white.

ID

RA T E S CLO

Who is your favourite fashion designer internationally and locally?

Internationally, Donnatela Versace. Locally I have many preferences.

lucy kawiRa

Whose fashion style do you admire locally and internationally?

Locally, Lucy Kawira and internationally Rihanna.

What is your best fashion accessory?

My Calvin Klein watch.

What is the one fashion item that you cannot leave the house without?

A handbag.

What is the last item you wear before leaving the house?

My watch.

What is the one fashion trend you have sworn never to try and why?

The animal print midi dress, it is too overrated!

What is your guilty pleasure (fashion wise)?

I am obsessed with sexy lingerie. I cannot get enough!

What is the fashion advice that you live by?

Dress fiercely according to your body shape and for the occasion.

TOP 10

Rank

THE WEEKS

B.O.B ft

NEWS

INGRED AWUOR

TRUCKS

Trey So ng

z

Which one do you prefer, crop tops or sheer tops?

Crop tops anytime.

TiTle

aRTisTe

1 2

Not for long Let me know

B.O.B ft Trey Songz Tamar Braxton ft

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

The body Bad bitch No love Apparently

Wale ft Jeremiah French Montana ft Jeremih August Alsina ft Nicki Minaj J Cole Eminem ft Nate Ruess Sia Eminem ft Sia Ne-Yo ft Juicy J

Headlights Elastic hearts Guts over fear She knows

PLAY 11 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015

WEATHERFORECAST

DAILYHOROSCOPES CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan19 You will probably like it, as it may give you freedom. Whether you actually want to try it or not depends on your situation. You might want to get some chores done around the house today in order to leave free time tomorrow for whatever you want to do. Something exciting might happen.

AQUARIUS Jan 20 - Feb 18 Aquarius, you probably feel especially sexy and passionate now. You may enjoy browsing through catalogues of rich fabrics or furniture. Erotic novels could also appeal to you. If you’re currently involved, you may want to spend the evening alone with your partner.

FRIday 13/02/2015

sunny

30

PISCES Feb 19 - Mar 20 Legal matters should definitely work in your favor today, particularly any involving property.

You’re likely to feel positive about life, Pisces, and your home life should be especially gratifying. If you can get together with a lover, you will probably grow quite a bit closer.

28ºC 25%

SATURday 14/02/2015

More sun than clouds

28 6:42 am 6:52 pm

27ºC 34%

6:42 am 6:51 pm

Sunday

27

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 A call from a romantic partner could lead to an intimate get-together, Aries. It’s likely to be highly gratifying emotionally and bring you closer together. Passionate poetry and sexy novels could especially appeal to you right now. Get started!

Sudoku

TAURUS Apr 20 - May 20 A change of employment and increase in income may be in the works. If you don’t feel passionate about what you’re doing, expect the chance to become involved in an enterprise that you do feel strongly about. New ideas and opportunities could change your life.

GEMINI May 21 - Jun 21 Don’t be surprised if you draw admiring glances from strangers you pass in the street.

Romance should be going very well for you. A hot date with a current or potential love partner could take place tonight. You might also be feeling especially artistic and inspired.

CANCER Jun 22 - Jul 21 Today you may contemplate changes in your home. They could be physical, like redecorating, refurnishing, or remodeling. Or someone could move in or out. Whatever the change, it’s likely to be fortunate. If you’re thinking of such a change, you can proceed confidently.

LEO Jul 23- Aug 22 This can be thrilling, but it might not be a good idea to do anything about it just yet. You’re feeling especially sensual today, and therefore any attraction you feel could pass by tomorrow.

If you’re presently involved, schedule a romantic evening with your partner.

VIRGO Aug 23- Sep 22 This process is likely to continue today, Virgo, as social events put you in touch with valuable contacts. It might be a good idea to listen to others today and not try to voice ideas of your own or make any decisions. Too much input could lead to mental overload and a lack of focus.

MUSTREAD

LIBRA Sep 23 - Oct 22 A powerful desire for change could have you thinking of traveling, Libra, or perhaps relocating to a distant state or foreign country. Friends who live far away could be trying to convince you to join them. This isn’t a minor decision. It requires careful thought.

SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21 Some vivid and interesting dreams could bring a lot of repressed memories up and force you to confront them. Psychological obstacles to financial success and romantic happiness could be cleared away, which could change your life. It’s vital that you write down your dreams.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 22 - Dec 21 Someone exciting could move in nearby, and you could hit it off. Expect stimulating conversations and fascinating new information. If you aren’t currently involved, this person could be a potential romance. At least you will make a new friend.

INSTAMOMENTS 1

3

2

4

YOURSAY

— by NoViolet Bulawayo

At only 10 years old, Darling has experienced a harsh world. In her native Zimbabwe, she has been through violence, her home destroyed by paramilitary policemen and the father left to work abroad in dangerous conditions. Darling and friends steal guavas and try to help a pregnant young friend, Chipo, abort.

She has a chance to start a new life as she travels to US to live with her aunt. She finds the country different and not the land of opportunities she had always heard about. Available options for an immigrant are few and far apart. Will she manage a new life?

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

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.

Tett case should go on without interference I am not jumping to conclusions but I do not see the reason for the recalling of the file in the murder case that Betty Tett has been implicated in (File in ‘assassination plot’ linked to Betty Tett recalled,

We Need New Names

Thursday, February 12, 2015).

If someone is innocent, I think it is only prudent to go through the whole process of the justice system.

The leaders of the judiciary, starting with the Chief

Justice should ensure that the established processes are not tampered with, because this is tantamount to makingg a mockery of the entire system.

—Anonymous, Nairobi

winning captions

1. The real rough necks of India-Christine Shekinah, Ngong 2. The balance is what amazes me-Joli Mwangi, Nairobi 3. You can only abuse your bike so much, until it decides to abuse you-WK

12

PLAY

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015

CROSSWORD Across 1. Details 5. USSR, in Russian 9. Spurred (on) 14. Poetic negative 15. D.C. bigwigs 16. Like some Central American pyramids 17. The Price is Right host 19. Catcher in the World Series’ only perfect game 20. Cup ____ (personal preference) 21. Java house order 23. J.D. forerunner 25. Cry of adoration 30. Boots for a peewee 33. Heart-rate meas.

35. Excuse to eat cake, briefly 36. Bear and Berra 37. CSA soldiers 39. Feudal peons 42. Soft-drink nut 43. Kipling’s pack leader 45. French affirmatives 47. Washington st. capital (abbr.)

48. Ubiquitous sign in “Snoopy, Come Home!”

52. Notwithstanding 53. ‘60s conflict site, for short 54. Word in a song 57. Edith Wharton novel, “The House of ___” 61. Roofed patio 65. Early inhabitant 67. Cairo’s country 68. Time in a seat 69. Dems.’ foes 70. Belittle 71. Alimony recipients 72. Wapitis

Down 1. China preceder 2. Kiddy toy material 3. Iambs 4. Big Brother’s creator 5. Book balancer, for short 6. Crocus bulb 7. ‘63 Liz Taylor role 8. Classic Hollywood thriller 9. Attache’s residence 10. Go, in Glasgow 11. With “ate,” to dance wildly 12. Cauliflower ___ 13. Genetic stuff 18. Old Testament spy 22. 90 degrees from vert.

24. Some briefs, briefly 26. “Now I get it!”

27. Lousy 28. “Jurassic Park” star Sam 29. Test for content 30. Places securely (in) 31. Popular cable channel, briefly 32. Alpine region 33. Mark on a steer 34. Tea variety 38. Gruel, e.g.

40. Ending for care or hope 41. Common noun suffix 44. Gymnast’s attribute 46. Eastern guru 49. Place for a pig 50. Effervesce 51. Political escapee 55. Curvy-horned goat 56. Middle 58. Cambodian dollar 59. Hwy. 60. Amoco rival 61. Conducted 62. Grow long in the tooth 63. Lincoln Ctr. locale 64. World Health Day mo.

66. Rental ad abbr.

DAILY WISDOM “Walk like you have three men walking behind you.” — Oscar de la Renta “Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world.”

— Marilyn Monroe “Elegance is the only beauty that never fades.”

— Audrey Hepburn

“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.”

— Coco Chanel “If you can’t be better than your competition, just dress better.”

—Anna Wintour “Fashion is what you’re offered four times a year by designers. And style is what you choose.”

— Lauren Hutton “You can never take too much care over the choice of your shoes. Too many women think that they are unimportant, but the real proof of an elegant woman is what is on her feet.”

— Christian Dior “A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous.”

— Coco Chanel

“It’s always the small people who change things. It’s never the politicians or the big guys. I mean, who pulled down the Berlin wall? It was all the people in the streets. The specialists didn’t have a clue the day before.”

— Luc Besson, French Film Director

YESTERDAY’S SOLUTIONS

Sport FRIday, FEBRUARY 13, 2015

RECOVERY SESSION Tiger Woods takes a break after frustrating games P.15

Skipper to miss World Cup opener

injury-prone: Australia cricket captain Michael Clarke suffered two injuries to his left hamstring in 2014 before tearing his hamstring later in the year.

Everton boss says Chelsea players swaying referees Everton manager Roberto Martinez accused Chelsea players of trying to sway the referee during their ill-tempered 1-0 fall at Stamford Bridge.

Willian’s late winner came after Gareth Barry’s red card and a fracas in which Branislav Ivanovic escaped censure for a clash with Everton’s James McCarthy.

“It’s very clear that what the home team are trying to do is influence the referee,” Martinez said.

Mourinho cut short an interview when asked about Chelsea’s discipline.

A game that looked destined for stalemate came to life in the closing stages after

Barry was shown a second yellow card for a trip on Willian.

As opposing players clashed, Ivanovic locked his arm around McCarthy’s neck and appeared to push his head towards the Everton midfielder.

Martinez criticised referee Jonathan Moss for his handling of both incidents.

“To give Barry a second yellow just because of the reaction of the Chelsea players, that is disappointing,” he said.

“You don’t want to believe that that decision is given because of the reaction of the players. It’s something that we constantly see here. We have to allow the

authorities to look into it.

“Ivanovic’s behaviour is wrong. He grabs McCarthy around his neck in a very forceful manner, then puts his head against him. James McCarthy doesn’t react a single bit.

“If you want to be on top of the law, that’s a red card and we got nothing out of that moment.”

Mourinho has recently returned from a self-imposed 10-day media silence after accusing the press of influencing the Football Association’s decision to punish Chelsea striker Diego Costa for a stamp of Liverpool’s Emre Can.

Australia captain Michael Clarke will not play against England in the World Cup opener on Saturday.

Team coach Darren Lehmann said Clarke is, however, likely to be fit for Australia’s second game against Bangladesh in Brisbane on February 21.

Clarke, 33, has been plagued by injuries throughout his career.

He has suffered persistent hamstring troubles and was ruled out of the recent Test series with India to allow surgery.

Clarke made a half century on Wednesday, captaining Australia for the first time in two months as they won their final World Cup warm-up against the UAE. Lehmann said Clarke had “pulled up really well” but would not play in the match in Melbourne on Saturday.

“We’re really happy with his progress.

We’re going to stick with the plan and he’s going to play against Bangladesh,” Lehmann said.

Clarke had suffered two injuries to his left hamstring in 2014 before tearing his right hamstring while fielding in the first Test against India on 13 December.

He even went so far as to suggest that the injury may have ended his career.

But, by December 24, he stated his desire to be fit for the World Cup being co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand - and returned to action in grade cricket on January 32.

Captain could have lost eye in coin attack, says Magpies boss Newcastle captain Fabricio Coloccini could have gone blind after he was struck by a coin during the match against Crystal Palace, Magpies boss John Carver claims.

The object appeared to have been thrown from the crowd as Newcastle celebrated Papiss Cisse’s goal.

“It misses Colo’s eye by an inch another inch and it could blind him.

It has got to be taken out of the game,” he said.

“What is disappointing from their point of view is that they have an unbelievable crowd here, an unbelievable atmosphere - it is a fanatical group of supporters in that

corner.”

Palace manager Alan Pardew also condemned the incident which took place shortly before half-time in the 1-1 draw.

Newcastle took the lead with their first shot on target when Cisse headed in Daryl Janmaat’s cross.

The home side equalised when Fraizer Campbell poked in a Yannick Bolasie cross.

“It would be a shame - a random fan acting poorly if that is the case,” Pardew said.

“That is unusual for this club because we have a great record of behaviour so I am sure we will look into it.”

Minister defends Sh2.2m pay for Ghana Afcon stars

GETTING PHYSICAL: Everton manager Roberto Martinez has accused Chelsea players of trying to sway the referee during their ill-tempered 1-0 defeat at Stamford Bridge.

Ghana did not win the Afcon, and her citizens are unhappy over mounting bonuses being splashed on the team.

But the Youth and Sports Minister Mahama Ayariga has defended the Sh2.28million bonus announced for each player on Tuesday.

“Anybody who thinks the money from (the team sponsor Ghana National Petroleum Corporation) is too much should have been there when the players were under attack from irate fans,” the minister told supersport.com.

The minister said the semi-final at Estadio de Malabo was played in an atmosphere akin to a ‘war-zone’.

“I wish they were in the stadium and then they will know whether Sh2.28million is worth that kind of

experience,” Ayariga said.

The minister wants more corporate bodies to offer the Black Stars incentives for reaching the finals of the Nations Cup. “We are not a serious country,” Cyndy Lamiorkor, a fan, fumed. “We have a crippling electricity problem and our people our just wasting money on players who already have money.”

Another, James Akonnor, weighed in.

“Ghana is a country in crisis and in as much as we need to reward them, these amounts are too much.”

A similar story is playing out in Germany where Sh4.83million was awarded to each player for winning the Nations Cup in addition to a house worth the same amount.

14

SPORT FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015

AK to conduct doping seminar ahead of cross country meet STICKY DUEL: National women’s hockey team (in green) against Ghana. Coach Jos Openda is optimistic the side will do well in the second round of the World Hockey League to be held in Montevideo, Uruguay.

Openda tips national hockey team for Uruguay success National women’s hockey head coach Jos Openda is optimistic the side will do well in the second round of the World Hockey League in Montevideo, Uruguay.

The team left on Wednesday night and will play their first match against France tomorrow. Kenya made it to the second round after beating Ghana and Tanzania in Nairobi.

Openda said the girls have worked hard in training and will now only go to implement what they have been working on.

“We have been training very well and the morale is very high within the camp. Our

physical strength has really improved and it is now only a matter of execution. There is no much we know of the teams we are going to be playing against but all we know is we are going to face quality teams. We are also going to play quality and attractive hockey,” Openda said.

Openda believes his experience fused with that of his Telkom Orange players who have made a huge part of the final squad will be a vital asset to the team. The dream to play in the Rio de Janeiro Olympics next year will also be a driving force for their ambition.

The top four teams from the Montevideo

Athletics Kenya (AK) will conduct an anti-doping seminar today (Friday), a day before the IAAF Permit/Athletics Kenya National Cross Country Championships at Nairobi’s Uhuru Gardens.

IAAF Events and Competitions Director, Paul Hardy is expected to attend the one-day workshop after attending the annual Athletes’ Representatives meeting earlier in the day.

Hardy will also inspect Nairobi’s Nyayo National Stadium that is the designated host facility for the IAAF 2017 World Youth Championships.

AK president Isaiah Kiplagat (pictured below) said Wednesday the seminar would not have come at a better time where all the athletes and managers are available to share a platform.

“The doping matter has been very hot and this year we are going to rollout a program on how we will work out with the Anti-doping Agency of Kenya to address this burning matter,” Kiplagat said.

At the same, the AK boss maintained the Nationals will

press on as planned despite a boycott threat from a section of retired and active athletes led by former Olympic champions, Wilfred Bungei and John Ngugi calling on affiliated regions to skip the event in protest against his extended rule.

“All regions have entered their athletes and its indication the event is going to be very successful, I don’t want anybody to have any doubt, the event will go on. We are prepared and all the technical issues have been addressed and we are all set for Saturday,” Kiplagat added Race technical director Ibrahim Hussein said: “As a former athlete I can say Cross Country is very important and it made us be who we are today. So those who are calling for boycott should know we have a full team.” The retired and current athletes expressed dissatisfaction on how the national athletics governing body had handled Rita Jeptoo’s doping case after the threetime Boston and twice Chicago marathon champion was slapped with a two match ban for testing positive last September for using banned blood boosting EPO.

tournament proceed to the third round of the World Hockey League, with the top two from earning a direct ticket to Rio. “We want to be in the Olympics, that is our ultimate dream and driving force. No Kenyan women hockey team has achieved that and we want to make and be part of history. I believe in the ability of the girls and I believe we can make it,” Openda confidently says.

Azerbaijan, Dominican Republic, France, Italy, Mexico, Trinidad & Tobago and Uruguay will be the other teams fighting for the four available slots.

My game is not acceptable, Woods says as he takes indefinite break from golf

DISPLEASED: Tiger Woods recorded his worst ever professional round to miss the cut in the Phoenix Open by 12 shots.

Tiger Woods is taking an indefinite break from golf, saying his game is “unacceptable for tournament play”.

Woods withdrew injured from last week’s event at Torrey Pines after just 12 holes, having missed the cut at the Farmers Insurance Open the week before.

He said: “I need a lot of work on my game, and to spend time with people that are important to me.

“I enter a tournament to compete at the highest level, and when I think I’m ready, I’ll be back.”

Woods has withdrawn from three of his last eight competitive tournaments.

On his website, the 14-time major winner said he regretted withdrawing from Torrey Pines and that his current injury was not related to last year’s back surgery.

He intends to spend the next week practising at home to “get ready for the rest of the year”.

“I’d like to play in the Honda Classic (from 26 February) but I won’t be there unless my game is tournament ready.

“I am committed to getting back to the pinnacle of my game,” he added. “I do expect to be playing again very soon.”

SPORT 15 FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015

How to play 1. Register SMS the word ‘GAME’ to 79079. You will receive a message confirming that your SPESA account has been opened.

2. Top up your account Deposit money in your MPesa, Airtel Money, Orange Money or Yu Cash.

Once deposited send the amount you want to your SPESA account, using MPesa Paybill 955100, Airtel Money Paybill SPORTPESA, Orange Money Paybill 079079 or Yu Cash Paybill 107079 3. Place a bet Send an SMS in the following format to 79079: GAME ID#(OUTCOME i.e 1, X or 2)#AMOUNT OF MONEY. For instance, in tomorrow’s match between Manchester City and Chelsea, if you want to bet Sh100 for a Man City win, you will send the following SMS to 79079: 6112#1#100

Weekend matches predictions

Sassuolo vs Fiorentina

Palermo vs Napoli

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2015

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2015

Sassuolo have been on a positive run of form and sit comfortably mid-table in what is only their second season of Serie A football. The Neroverdi frustrated a toothless Sampdoria to for a difficult away point. Montella’s Fiorentina came out on top in a five-goal thriller in an early Sunday afternoon fixture which has seen them climb up to fourth in the standings.

XSport: 2-1 Fiorentina Ann: 1-1 Steve: 1-0 Sassuolo

Game ID: 6520 Pick 1(Sassu X (Draw) 2 (Fioren win) win)

Despite a positive run of form, Palermo were unlucky to face such an efficient Inter side at the San Siro. The Sicilians were swept aside by Mancini’s side who were desperate to win after a dire run. Napoli were made to sweat hard when they entertained Udinese last weekend, in what was a closely contested game. Benitez’s side have hit a good run of form though won’t have it all their own way in Sicily.

XSport: 2-1 Napoli Ann: 1-0 Palermo Steve: 0-0 Game ID: 2093 Pick 1(Paler win)

X (Draw) 2 (Napoli win)

Odd

3.10

3.31

2.30

Bet Amount

Odd

3.47

3.42

2.08

100

100

100

100

100

100

Possible win (KSh)

Bet Amount

310

331

230

Possible win (KSh)

347

342

208

Atalanta vs Inter

Udinese vs Lazio

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2015

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2015

Udinese seem to be running out of steam after a superb start to their campaign as they continue sliding down the Serie A platform. Lazio have also showed signs of inconsistency in recent weeks and their Monday night defeat at Genoa added further distance from the Champions League third spot.

Stramaccioni is expected to spurn his men on in what is a critical game for the rival sides.

XSport: 2-0 Udinese Ann: 1-0 Lazio Steve: 1-1

Atalanta were almost rewarded for their efforts only to be denied by a late Pasqual strike. The home side are hovering above the relegation zone and will need to improve their form if there are to avoid a relegation scrap come May. Inter finally won a game after a poor run of form.

XSport: 2-1 Inter Ann: 2-2 Steve: 2-1 Atalanta

Game ID: 7805 Pick 1 (Udines X (Draw) 2 (Lazio win) win)

Game ID: 5159 Pick 1 (Atalan X (Draw) 2 (Inter win) win)

Odd

3.37

Bet Amount

100

Possible win (KSh)

337

2.19

Odd

3.29

3.24

2.23

100

100

Bet Amount

100

100

100

326

219

Possible win (KSh)

329

324

223

3.26

Aston Villa vs Leicester SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2015

Aston Villa’s season went from bad to worse on Tuesday evening as they slipped into the Premier League relegation zone following a 2-0 defeat to Hull City. Villa have since parted ways with manager Paul Lambert Villa, with 22 points from 25 matches, cannot tell whether their FA Cup exploits are a welcome bonus or an unnecessary distraction. Their top-flight survival hangs by an increasingly thin thread.

XSport: 2-1 Villa Ann: 2-2 Steve: 2-1 Leicester Game ID: 7049 Pick Odd

1 (Aston X (Draw) 1 (Leice win) win) 2.17

Bet Amount

100

Possible win (KSh)

217

C. Palace vs Liverpool SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2015

Crystal Palace’s host Liverpool in a FA Cup fifth round on Saturday. The Reds won 3-2 at home to Tottenham in their last league match on Tuesday.

Palace settled for 1-1 draw with Newcastle on Wednesday and it will be interesting to see who carries the day between Brendan Rogers and Allan Perdiew.

XSport: 3-2 Palace Ann: 1-1 Steve: 2-1 Liverpool

Game ID: 2429 Pick 1 (C.Pala X (Draw) 2 (Liverp win) win)

2.81

Odd

3.22

3.18

1.91

100

100

Bet Amount

100

100

100

301

281

Possible win (KSh)

322

318

191

3.01

xnews | friday, february 13, 2015 | www.x-news.co.ke

AUSTRALIA SKIPPER MICHAEL CLARKE TO MISS WC OPENER Pg: 13

Being Harry Kane Harry Kane set for England call up, says Roy Hodgson

KANING: Harry Kane celebrates his first Premier League goal in April 2014. England coach Roy Hodgson has confirmed that Harry Kane will be called up to his next England squad.

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.

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Roy Hodgson has confirmed that Harry Kane will be called up to his next England squad but insisted that he will not use Wayne Rooney as a midfielder on a day when it also emerged that another of his forwards, Saido Berahino, had become the first player to receive an official reprimand for breaching the Football Association’s code of conduct.

Berahino has been given a formal warning after highlevel talks behind the scenes involving Hodgson and the FA’s technical director, Dan Ashworth, to discuss whether the West Bromwich Albion striker’s conviction for drunkdriving was serious enough for him to be left out of the squad for the Euro 2016 qualifier at home to Lithuania on 27 March followed by the friendly against Italy in Turin

four days later. The verdict was that a reprimand would be enough but Berahino’s place is at risk anyway at a time when Hodgson says he is not just planning to award Kane his first senior cap but is also giving serious consideration to including Danny Ings on the back of his impressive form for Burnley.

Hodgson made it clear he will not follow Louis van Gaal’s decision to employ Rooney in a midfield role for Manchester United despite the increased competition for places. Daniel Sturridge is fit again, Danny Welbeck is one of the manager’s favourites and Jermain Defoe is also back in contention, and that threatens to bring an end to Rickie Lambert’s international career after his disappointing season for Liverpool.

SPORTPESA ROLLS OUT SH14M SUPER 8 fOOTBALL TOURNAMENT SPONSORSHIP Sports betting firm SportPesa today morning handed over a Sh14million cheque as sponsorship for this year’s edition of the Super 8 tournament.

Sports Cabinet Secretary Dr. Hassan Wario was in attendance at the handover, and his presence was warmly recognised by tournament organizers Extreme Sports’ boss Hussein Mohammed. “It is the first time since we started that Ministry of Sports has come to support,” said Mohammed.

The ninth edition of the tournament was launched earlier this month with Mohammed confirming that the tournament will feature teams in the 17 constituencies in Nairobi County and will run between March and July 2015.

“The preliminary matches will be played on home and away format as opposed to the previous knockout tournament,” said Mohammed.

Interested teams are required to pay a Sh3,000 registration fee. Winners of

Eden Hazard pens new deal worth Sh28.2m per week with Chelsea

the event will take home a doubled-up prize of Sh500,000 while first runners up will pocket Sh250,000. Bronze winners will earn Sh100,000.

All the regional champions who will not advance to the medal brackets will bag Sh60,000 in a structure that will see even third and fourth placed teams at the regional level bag Sh10,000 each.

The deadline for registration of participating teams will be on February 20, 2015.

Eden Hazard has become the first big-money beneficiary of the lucrative Premier League TV rights deal after penning a new contract worth a whopping £57million (Sh8 billion).

Chelsea have confirmed the Belgium international has penned a new five-and-a-half year contract worth £200,000 (Sh28.2 million) per week.

The news comes in a week that the Premier League confirmed a £5billion (Sh705 billion) deal with Sky Sports and BT Sport to show live matches over three seasons from the start of the 2016-17 campaign.

The staggering TV rights package will see increased revenue for Premier League

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clubs and is likely to result in increased transfer fees and wages.

And Hazard’s deal - which puts him amongst the highest paid at Stamford Bridge merely underlines the growing financial power of clubs in England’s top-flight.

The Belgian’s new deal has been an open secret for some time, with manager Jose Mourinho insisting on several occasions that the talented forward would extend his contract.

“The manager has helped me improve a lot, the fans have been fantastic and I have an amazing understanding with my team-mates,” Hazard said.