WEEKEND EDITION JUNE 12-14, 2015 | www.x-news.co.ke
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seeking reforms kenya pushes for change at un body as leaders meet
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business deal Equity signs contract with truck seller hino
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fashion scoop laura anjili lets us into her chic closet. see just how fab it is
NEWS
it might take some time for agwanda to start at gor
kenya to begin yet another try for africa cup of nations slot
Uhuru to MPs: I am deeply disappointed P
resident Uhuru Kenyatta has e x p r e s s e d “ p r o f o u n d disappointment” with the National Assembly after MPs ganged up to reject his nomination of Monica Juma as Secretary to the Cabinet. The lawmakers refused
to approve Dr Juma’s nomination arguing that she lacks “demonstrable passion to serve the public and their elected leaders.” The MPs based their argument on a letter the nominee had written to the clerks of parliament to protest against their
frequent visits to her Harambee House office where she serves as the Principal Secretary for the Interior Ministry. It is the first time the legislators rejected a presidential appointee since Mr Kenyatta came to power in 2013. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
AT LOGGERHEADS: President Uhuru Kenyatta (right) and Tiaty MP Asman Kamama, who chairs the committee on National Administration, which rejected the President’s Secretary to the Cabinet nominee.
Why Rotich’s budget will make life harder
HERE IS THE BUDGET: Treasury CS Henry Rotich.
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The budget for the next financial year, read yesterday by Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich, is definitely going to push up the cost of living. In a bid to grow the economy and increase security spending, the minister has introduced a raft of new tariffs that will raise the cost of basic commodities and drive up the cost of expenses like rent and fuel. These new taxes will eventually trickle down to consumers who will be required to bear the brunt of the new levies. Mr Rotich sought to assure MPs and the general public that these measures are necessary. “The resilience of the economy and creation of about 800,000 jobs last year is by no means an accident,” he said as he presented the Sh2.1 trillion budget in parliament yesterday. He added: “We have significantly improved the business environment, rolled out the biggest infrastructure in Kenya’s history and brought down the cost of living.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
Dr. Susan Mboya- Kidero during the launch of the GOAL Program in Nairobi County today morning. The GOAL program aims to empower and equip adolescent girls with the confidence, knowledge and skills needed to be integral economic leaders in their families, communities and societies as well as through a combination of sports and life skills training. The program also aims to reach an additional 500,000 adolescent girls between 2013 and 2018.
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NEWS WEEKEND EDITION, JUNE 12-14, 2015
Uhuru scoffs at MPs for rejecting Juma
From Page 1
“The President is deeply disappointed that the National Assembly has chosen to reject a public officer whom it acknowledged as being highly qualified and competent, and who indeed represents Kenyan professionalism and dedication to service at their best,” State House spokesperson Manoah Esipisu said last evening. President Kenyatta differed with MPs and defended Dr Juma as a very competent civil servants who has initiated reforms in her ministry.
“In fact, the reasons cited by the Parliamentary Committee, that vetted her for their rejection, reflected her professional and correct demand that proper procedures be followed in the efficient delivery of public services,” Esipisu added in a statement sent to newsrooms.He said MPs spurned a public servant whose performance had consistently delivered professionalism, integrity and commitment to the duties of government and the wellbeing of Kenyans. The said the rejection has denied
him and the entire nation the services of a dedicated officers who would have been central to his government’s transformational agenda. Previously, Dr Juma served Kenya as the Ambassador to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union. She was Principal Secretary in the ministry of Defence before swapping positions with Mutea Iringo early this year. MPs had taken her to task over the letter during her vetting on Tuesday
demanding to know why she did not want them to keep knocking at the door of her office. In their verdict, the Committee on Administration and National Security which is chaired by Tiaty MP Asman Kamama said Juma displayed arrogance and insensitivity to the needs and concerns of the public and their elected leaders. “The nominee lacked demonstrable passion to serve the public and their elected leaders,” the committee said in its report which recommended
that Juma be rejected. Meanwhile the Commission for the Implementation of the Constitution (CIC) has threatened to sue Kamama’s committee saying it contravened the law in their rejection of Juma. CIC Chairman Charles Nyachae says the committee contravened Chapter 6 of the Constitution on Leadership and Integrity and that its members were guided by pursuit for self-interests. As such, they are unfit to hold public office according to CIC.
Agencies get more money to improve security MAN IN CHARGE: EACC Chief Executive Halakhe Waqo (centre) while addressing a past news conference.
EACC GIVEN MORE TIME TO INVESTIGATE GRAFT President Uhuru Kenyatta has allowed the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission more time to carry out investigations on corruption cases. The extension was announced after a meeting at State House with the Chief Executive Officer Halakhe Waqo, who had argued that the two months earlier given were not sufficient. “While acknowledging the Commission’s request for the extension of time, the President maintained his desire to see the process hastened and concluded expeditiously,” State House
Spokesperson Manoah Esipisu said in a statement. “The President was encouraged by the level of public cooperation given to the commission so far. It was in his view a welcome development that bore testimony to the fact that the relentless war on corruption cannot be won without it being a national collaborative effort,” he stated. President Kenyatta assured the country that the war on corruption will be on until the menace is over. “The President further reiterates that
there will be no resource spared in the fight against corruption, and calls on all other institutions of government; the county level, the Judiciary and Parliament to do all in their powers to support the fight,” he added. The commission has investigated 96 out of 175 individuals in the corruption list that President Kenyatta submitted to parliament. Among those already investigated are five Cabinet Secretaries with Transport’s Michael Kamau having already been charged before court.
Security agencies have been allocated an additional Sh27 billion as the government moves to combat terrorism and other forms of organized crime. Kenya has experienced rampant insecurity in recent years and additional allocations to the security sector was not a surprise. Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich while presenting the budget proposals yesterday said Sh112 billion will be channeled to the Ministry of Defence and the National Intelligence Service. The Interior Ministry will be allocated another Sh102.4 billion in a bid build on the security measures already in place which include enhancing mobility and modernising the service. This
is an increase of Sh9.5 billion compared to the Sh92.9 billion it was allocated in the last financial year. “The government has prioritized the security sector following recent incidences of insecurity and terrorism in the country,” he said. Rotich allocated Sh7.7 billion to leasing of police vehicles to enhance their mobility, Sh15 billion for military modernisation, Sh10 billion for police service modernisation and Sh1.7 billion for police medical scheme. The Kenya Defence Forces fighting Al-Shabaab terror group in Somalia under AMISOM has been allocated Sh6.4 billion while Sh4.4 billion will go towards fighting poaching.
Why Rotich’s budget will make life harder From Page 1 One of the new developments involves doubling taxes imposed on imported sugar, a move that hopes to resuscitate the struggling sector while discouraging the purchase of foreign sweeteners. Rotich has also proposed new tariffs on residential and rental businesses. The Cabinet Secretary aims to tax landlords on a growth rental income at 12 per cent for income below Sh10 million per year. In addition, the CS introduced a tax amnesty for landlords who are outside this tax bracket.
In turn, landlords under the new scheme will be encouraged to raise the cost of rent for their tenants as is evident with every business that incurs expenses yet aims to remain profitable. And in a bid to protect local sugar manufacturers, the government increased duty fees on imported sugar in what it says will avoid unfair competition with local producers and recoup the sugar sector. This may mean an increase in the price of sugar. The Cabinet Secretary has also increased import duty rate on plastic tubes for
packaging tooth pastes and cosmetics from 10 per cent to 25 per cent in order to protect local manufacturers. This translates to a jump in prices for foreign or imported brands. Meanwhile, Kenya’s road maintenance levy has been increased by Sh3 per litre of petrol and diesel that will be paid in the Road Annuity Fund. Rotich estimates that the exchequer will collect Sh1.358 trillion in revenue through these tax measures. Mr Rotich said the tough measures were as a result of a volatile economic
environment, security concerns and erratic climate in the region. “We would have done much better were it not for the myriad of challenges we have encountered; ranging from terrorist events in Nairobi, Lamu, Mandera and recently in Garissa,” he said. “We have also had to deal with drought, low tourism, unfavourable tea prices and a weak global economy,” he added. The new budget has an overall deficit of about Sh570.2 billion and the Treasury intends to more than make up for it.
NEWS 3
CARTOONSPEAK
WEEKEND EDITION JUNE 12-14, 2015
Kenyans are not afraid of diseases, survey reveals Kenyans are not afraid of diseases. In fact, illnesses are some of the least prevalent problems that Kenyans worry about. A survey by leading research group has found that people are worried about a lot of things with diseases being the last problem on their list. Ipsos, a client-focused organization that provides research services to clients on a global basis posed a question and got what some have termed as a series of strange responses. The group, through its researchers asked: “Generally, what would you say is the most serious problem facing Kenya today?”
NEWS BRIEFS Jubilee pursues laptops with Sh17 billion allocation
Diseases ranked last in a list of 12 problems. The first problem on the list was the high cost of living with 33 per cent of Kenyans describing it as a serious threat to their daily lives. World Bank statistics confirm that roughly four out of ten Kenyans live in poverty. Unemployment, hunger, poor leadership and corruption came second, third and fourth respectively. They were closely followed by terrorism, crime and ethnic tension. The research underpins the need for policies that will improve the living standards of Kenyans while creating a conducive environment for progress and development.
The Jubilee administration is determined to fulfil its pledge to provide free laptops to all schools with the Treasury allocating Sh17.6 billion in this year’s budget. National Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich said the funding will not only help in acquiring laptops but other ICT devices which will help students become E-compliant. “I am confident Mr Speaker that this time around, this key Jubilee Government project will finally take off,” he said as he read the budget yesterday.
IPOA lauds MPs for rejecting Juma
Kenyan story among first films shot for Occulus Rift
360 degrees: a scene from the film amani, the story of a 12-year-old Kenyan girl employed as a househelp, who suffers physical violence and sexual abuse on a daily basis. (inset) people watching the film using occulus rift glasses.
A ‘Kenyan’ story is among those that have made the pioneer films shot for view using the Occulus Rift- a 360 degree virtual reality film technology. Sweetie tells the story of Amani — a 12-year-old Kenyan girl employed as a househelp and who suffers physical violence and sexual abuse on a daily basis. The film aims to shed light on everyday child abuse, which is often invisible to the outside world. The immersive virtual experience, conceived by Terre Des Hommes, an international human rights charity, using a tailor-made 3D-printed camera rig and14 cameras. “We designed, prototyped and printed a camera rig that holds 14 individual cameras that not only record 360-degrees around you, but also captures the entire scene in 3D,” says Diederik Veelo, one of the producers. “In order to record sound in 3D as well, we fitted the camera with five additional microphones. The sound was then mixed in surround sound to immerse the viewer into an even richer environment. Combining these tools with a cinematic approach, you create an emotional experience new to any audience.” The Occulus Rift was conceptualized by Palmer Luckey and Brendan Iribe. The Rift is a head-mounted display for immersive virtual reality. In March 2014, Facebook agreed to acquire Oculus VR, the company behind the Rift, for US$2 billion (Sh195billion) in cash and Facebook stock.
WHAT OTHERS SAID TODAY... Fuel, beer up in pro-business uhuru budget: Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich’s Sh2trillion Budget aims at promoting growth in the economy through taxation and investment. The budget comprise Sh784.2 billion for recurrent expenditure, Sh721.3 billion for development projects and the shareable Sh264.2 billion for the 47 counties. The government intends to collect Sh1.36 trillion in revenues, including Sh1.25 trillion in ordinary revenues and Sh103.2 billion in aid. There were however more winners than losers...
taxes go up, more money For security: Motorists, and by extension the public, will pay more to meet transport costs after the National Treasury increased taxes on fuel to raise more revenue to fund the Sh2.1 trillion Budget unveiled Thursday. Also caught in the expanded tax bracket are beer drinkers, smokers, landlords and manufactures of plastic packaging materials. However, the youth, filmmakers, manufacturers, teachers and security agencies were among the biggest beneficiaries of the tax and policy measures announced by...
painFul budget.. After a fouryear hiatus, National Assembly Speaker Justin Muturi became the first Speaker to sit in the debating chambers and listen to a Cabinet Secretary read the spending plan for the next finacial year 2015-2016. The Speaker was in his seat, and the mace — the gold and ivory symbol of legislative authority — was at its place on the table next to the Dispatch Box ready for the reading of the budget...
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) has lauded Parliament’s rejection of Monica Juma as nominee for Secretary to the Cabinet. Chairman Macharia Njeru said Juma is difficult to work with and rude to the authority. He said the nominee once wrote the authority a rude and disrespectful letter. “Public servants must know they are in office to serve the public and not for their gains,” said Njeru.
South Korea MERS death toll hits 11 The death toll from the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) outbreak in South Korea has reached 11 while four new cases were confirmed early today, bringing the total number of cases to 126. One of the 126, a South Korean male, is being monitored by Chinese authorities since he arrived in the Chinese city of Guangdong in late May. The outbreak is the biggest outside of Saudi Arabia, where the little-understood virus was first detected in 2012. More than 3,800 people have been placed under quarantine.
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NEWS WEEKEND EDITION JUNE 12-14, 2015
Kenya pushes for UN reforms as AU meets Kenya has urged other African countries to join in the push for reforms at the United Nations Security Council to cater for their interests whenever binding decisions are made. Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohamed told a gathering of AU ministers that African have been treated as second class citizens and that it is time the trend is changed. She said the people of Africa are fully capable of taking part in global conversations and in decision making on issues that affect them. “During the forthcoming AU Summit, we must agree on a way forward; on how we will without reservation or hesitation support the African common position on UNSC reforms. Africans should not be treated as second class citizens. That needs to change,” she said while chairing the Session on the 70th Anniversary of the UN and the State of Multilateralism of the AU Executive Council of Ministers retreat in Johannesburg. She said decisions of the UN Security Council are binding on all countries, including African countries, which are not represented in the
REFORMATION: Foreign Affairs and Internationa Trade CS Amina Mohamed in one of the sessions of AU Council of Ministers in Sandton, Johanessburg. Kenya wants African voice heard at UNSC.
permanent category of the Security Council. “Security Council decisions are binding on all of us, our absence from the decision making table notwithstanding. Our demand for Security Council reforms is premised on correcting a historical injustice that has been visited on Africa. The question we must ask is whether it is not the right time for Africa to be appropriately represented in the UN,” she added
Amb. Amina Mohamed. The introductory remarks by the Cabinet Secretary generated a lively debate with the AU chairperson Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma echoing CS Amina’s call for strategies to push forward Africa’s position. The continent’s heads of state will meet for two days beginning Sunday in Sandton, Johannesburg where they will discuss issues affecting the continent. The migrants’ crisis, terrorism
and the turmoil in Burundi are expected to dominate the talks. This year’s official theme is “Year of Women’s Empowerment and Development”. But it will be interesting to see how the summit handles the immigration crisis in South Africa that saw waves of xenophobic violence in parts of Johannesburg and Durban as African immigrants were hunted down and attacked by gangs.
Hunt for Kamiti prison escapees extended to coast The hunt for three convicts who escaped from Kamiti Maximum Prisons has now been extended to Mombasa as Prisons boss remains optimistic of re-arresting them. Intelligence reports have indicated that the escapees could be in the coastal town after being spotted there last week. Prison warders and detectives have now concentrated the search in the town. Commissioner General of Prisons Isaiah Osugo says they have reasons to believe the criminals are hiding in Mombasa and that he has told the warders to lead in the operations. “We are optimistic to find them,” he said. Local reports last week insinuated that the jailbreak could have been the work of a collusion between staff and the convicts. The incident coincided with a rare power blackout at the institution which continues to raise eyebrows. Osugo said the circumstances of the jailbreak are being investigated. He however regretted the death of Ms Elizabeth Wandahi who died last week after succumbing to stray bullets by prison warders who were pursuing the escaping convicts. Elizabeth, 45, died at the Kenyatta National Hospital. Doctors said she was shot three times in the left arm and left thigh, which damaged her bowel control. An infection also hindered her blood from clotting thus making efforts to save her life difficult.
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xnews | WEEKEND EDITION JUNE 12-14, 2015 | 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 97.0741 96.9806 97.1676 150.2950 150.1278 150.4622 109.7811 109.6617 109.9006 7.8403 7.8302 7.8504 32.2950 32.2124 32.3776 22.5396 22.4663 22.6128
The Kenya government will partner with developers in a bid to come up with satellite cities that will help decongest Nairobi. A recent report from leading real estate company, Lamudi shows that satellite cities in real estate advance investments on amenities in a given area. This reduces people’s reliance on a country’s capital city, thereby easing congestion. Tilisi, a mini-city coming up in Kiambu County, is one of the latest in series of upcoming development projects.
The plan was started two years ago in preparation for vision 2030. The project will cover 400 acres and is projected to turn the area into a world-class residential and commercial area. Lamudi says Tilisi will touch on all the pillars of Kiambu County by constructing educational institutions, residential blocks, playgrounds, a police post, business blocks and a medical centre. The project is expected to boost the area’s real estate market in by creating a wide range of housing units. Speaking with regard to the recent
devemopments, Lamudi Kenya Managing Director, Dan Karua said satellite cities are mainly started due to demand from business developers in a certain area. He added that towns outside Nairobi are growing at a rapid rate and turning them into satellite cities is just one of the solutions for development. “We have some big projects coming up in the area that have started creating the change that is expected”, Karua added. “Malls like Two-Rivers, Riviera and Village Market are attracting international brands and the middle class to upper class
in the area. This is just to pave way for mini-cities like Tilisi.” He noted that people in Kiambu County are looking for affordable yet beautiful housing that can fulfill basic needs like security, water and convenience. Karua said developers will now have a chance to provide this type of housing. It is expected that 70 percent of the population in Kenya is expected to live in alternative urban areas like Kiambu by 2050.
Main STORY
Government partners with developers to decongest Nairobi
New Age Developers to set up gated community along Thika Gatanga Road New Age Developers and Construction Company Limited has announced that it is setting up a gated community along the ThikaGatanga Road. The project, dubbed Thika Golden Pearl, is a gated community that lies on 84 acres of land along just 5 kilometers from Blue Post Hotel. The announcement comes at a time when Kenya’s growing middle-class
has put property ownership is at the forefront of their objectives. As consumers grapple with the rising cost of rent, mortgages and prospects of home ownership continue to become more attractive. Recent numbers from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics show that rent prices have been on an upward trend, forcing tenants to reevaluate their living situation.
Thika Golden Pearl therefore presents an opportunity to redirect one’s income to a more permanent housing solution. “We are building a very beautiful curved perimeter wall and a modern gate,” the developers told X News during a recent exchange. “Construction is ongoing. We are dividing the land into three blocks with three themes; Wellington,
Palm and Melville Islands.” Each block will have its own unique design. The developers have also offered buyers room for adjustment adding up to 15 per cent of the unit. “We are leaving enough space for green areas, a common swimming pool, skating paths, and a basketball pitch,” added the group. “We are also developing a shopping
arcade for all your shopping needs inside the estate.” The developer has subdivided the land into quarters of an acre to avoid congestion with each plot selling for Sh4.2 million, inclusive of stamp duty, title transfer and the professional fees.
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BUSINESS WEEKEND EDITION, JUNE 12-14, 2015
Equity partners with truck seller to ease purchase of commercial vehicles Hino Kenya, the commercial division of Toyota Kenya, has signed a memorandum of understanding with Equity Bank Kenya targeting thecountry’s commercial vehicle segment. The partnership will see both Equity clients and non-banking customers, including schools across the country, access financing towards the purchase of commercial vehicles. Under the agreement, buyers will be
able to purchase vehicles through short loans to be repayed through flexible periods of between 48 and 72 months. This comes as the latest Kenya Motor Vehicle data shows a jump in the commercial vehicle segment. This rise has been attributed to the progressive growth of SMEs in the country, especially those concentrated in passenger transport and agriculture. Under the new partnership, Hino
will market its 33 and 51-seater buses as well as its 7 tonne and 9.9 tonne trucks. To underscore Hino’s commitment to SMEs growth in Kenya, the firm will offer discounts, extended warranties and free technical training to all customers under the program. Speaking during the signing ceremony, Hino General Manager Wanjohi Kangangi, noted that the automotive industry, particularly the
commercial segment, has a strong multiplier effect and is capable of being the driver of economic growth. Equity Bank Chief Operating Officer, Dr. Julius Kipng’etich, said that the move will go a long way towards easing the purchase of commercial vehicles while noting that customers will enjoy competitive interest rates, higher percentage financing and longer repayment period.
Oppo changes game with new smartphone technology in Kenya OPPO, a leading technology brand with operations across the globe, has announced plans to lock horns with some of the biggest players in Kenya’s mobile phone market. The tech company yesterday revealed their marketing strategy to partners during a breakfast event at the Fairmont Norfolk Hotel. During the meeting, which brought together OPPO’s team of dedicated marketers, the electronics manufucturer stated that it would hit the market with a range of great new products. “We do not do feature phones, only mid and high-end smartphones,” said Marketing Director for OPPO Kenya, Mr. Wayne Zheng. “This means our main competitors are Apple, Samsung and LG,” he added. The company has already unveiled a series of handsets costing between Sh10,900 and Sh59,900. Globally, OPPO aims to attract young and trendy consumers. “Here, our marketing strategy is to maximize awareness and build our young and trendy global brand image,” Zheng said. Despite being a relatively young global brand, OPPO has achieved what experts describe as a staggering amount of success from the 20 plus markets that the company currently operates in. Globally, OPPO sold 30 million units in 2014 and currently enjoys the number 3 position in China’s high-end and mid-end markets. The company has gained a market share of 11 per cent in both Indonesian and Vietnamese markets. The tech maker has an established presence in the African, American, Asian, European and
OPPO Kenya Marketing Director Wayne Zhenge
Oceanic continents. These results, says OPPO, are due in part to innovative products such as the company’s N1 phone, the first devise of its kind with a rotating camera, as well as the Find 5, the world’s first full HD smartphone.
BUSINEsS WISE As Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda and Tanzania announce their strategies for the financing of the national budget, it has become increasingly clear that there is great value in planned expenditure. Old Mutual, one of Kenya’s leading financial services groups, has come up with a four-step process to help any cash-savvy individual make the most out of their personal budget. “Budgeting is not reserved for national governments,” explains the group. “Budgeting lies at the heart of any financial plan. It will
Their announcement comes at a time when Kenyan consumers have shown strong dedication to the smartphone market with smart devices comprising roughly 70 per cent of all phones in Kenya.
“As the country experiences growth in the SMEs, we seek to facilitate the acquisition of commercial vehicles, which will be a key driver of their businesses and properly aligned to the Banks transformation agenda. Customers will go through the normal credit vetting to analyze their repayment ability,” Mr. Julius Kipng’etich said. The loan facilities are available to both Equity Bank and non-Equity Bank customers.
BIZ NEWS R.E.A. Trading secures 94 per cent of REA Vipingo Plantations after successful offer R.E.A. Trading Limited has secured 94.62 per cent of REA Vipingo Plantations, the largest sisal producer in Africa. The firm received acceptances from shareholders of REA Vipingo that will take its ownership of the sisal grower’s issued share capital to 94.62 per cent. R.E.A Trading had made an offer to acquire shares in REA Vipingo Plantations Limited that it did not already own. “This allows us to move forward with our plans for the future, which involve diversification of the REA Vipingo Plantations business in addition to large-scale sisal growing,” Richard Robinow, R.E.A. Trading’s chairman said. “Amongst other things, we intend to look at the utilisation of biomass for energy generation,” he added. Following the successful conclusion of the offer, cash payments to shareholders, comprising an aggregate of KES 85 per share will be effected as from July 1, 2015. The payments include 70Sh per share plus a Sh15 cash top-up for each share that REA Trading has elected to pay. R.E.A. Trading has been a longterm investor in REA Vipingo Plantations and has a proven track record in managing plantations. The next step in the transaction will be the de-listing of the company from the Nairobi Securities Exchange.
How to stay true to your personal budget
guide on balancing your income in view of your expenditure.” Their first piece of advice is to keep it simple. A statement from the financial giant indicates that a simple list, filed on a quarterly basis is more than enough to keep track of one’s finances. Their second piece of advice is to “divide costs.” Experts from Old Mutual say: “A budget is not a prohibitive plan around spending your hard earned money. It allows you to prioritize
and adequately finance all aspects of your life.” As such, one’s expenses would generally then be summarised as; Fixed costs, which include rent, water and electricity bills; Investments, which include Shares, Investment plans and Unit trust accounts; Savings, which are kept for vacations and emergencies; and finally, Guilt free spending, which entails dining out and shopping. The third step is “planning for budget busters.” In which case, the group advices anyone
making a budget to ensure that they safeguard themselves from the financial strains of any given emergency. The group says that the final step is to “reward yourself.” Says the financer: “In order to stick to a budget over the long haul, successful budgeters give themselves “treats” along the way. These treats are financially planned, accounted for, and built into their budgets. Think of them as rewards for good financial behaviour.”
WEEKEND EDITION, JUNE 12-14, 2015
ACCESS CELEBCHAT
Vigeti
JOHNNY This is my comeback story
He has been in the industry for decades. His music has been an inspiration to many a hip hop artiste before he fell from grace to grass.Johnny is back and is seeking to be heard; this is his story.
Who is Vigeti? Vigeti is a very complicated guy. I don’t even know how to start describing him. I am soon to find out. There is a book coming out soon so you will get the full details from there. How did you start out in music? Actually I can say my interest in music started ever since my father used to play the old records. I was like six years old then, but I started to get into music seriously in 93’ when rap was coming up in Dandora phase two with Roba and Kama where we eventually met Ted Josiah and recorded our first track in 96’. How would you describe your sound? Compared to what is around; very unique and on its own. Just get the album, find a nice stereo output and let the music speaks for itself. What happened to K-Shaka? The Lord works in mysterious ways you know. It happened for a good cause eventually I guess. I didn’t quit Kshaka;I can’t quit. Because actually technically speaking, I am still flying the Kshaka flag high. A Kshaka album is in the pipeline as we speak. Tell us about your latest album? Why
give it out for free? This is just an introduction to who Johnny Vigeti is you know? It has been a long time and now I am back. I am letting guys know I am back for real this time. Not everyone can afford to buy the music and basically we want to pass the knowledge to each and every one without bias and plus most of my people don’t have the resources. It is a unique move as no one has really done it before. Recently you did some few cuts with one of Caribbean’s best reggae artiste Lutan Fyah. How did it happen? I am dealing with Kenring, so nothing is impossible. Lutan is a professional artiste, very flexible to work with plus we are both signed to the same record label, MASA Music. It was a very eye opening experience for me. Where do you get inspiration for your music? Inspiration is everywhere in my lifestyle. You just have to know how to look. Ghettos mainly because that’s where I think the real life is at. That is where I was brought up. What do you think of the Kenyan Hip hop industry and the new crop of
hip hop artistes like Khaligraph and Rabbit? It is growing very fast. Corporates are understanding it more as opposed to how it was back in the day when no one really understood it. Artistes are getting paid better and endorsements are rolling in. As for the new crop of artistes, keep keeping on. Let’s cut this small beef talk and let’s do business. Our children, mothers, fathers and everyone relevant is listening. Let’s do proper music that will bring some change to this rotting society my friends because otherwise “NI NOMA”. Feel me? Do you have any memorable gigs in mind? When I curtain raised for Lost Boyz back in 98’. The whole experience was epic for me since at that time there weren’t shows like that!! Chilling with them at Hilton and exchanging ideas was very mind opening. Also I got to curtain raise for Coolio, still back in the day and exchanging ideas changed the way I looked at the game ever since. I also got to perform in front of 80,000 people in Nigeria. Man it was mind blowing I am telling you. Big
up to Benson for making that happen. What next for Vigeti? Actually what I will say is that we are to the next one. That album right there was just an introduction plus we did it in six days from scratch! Now the studio is nearing completion and we will have time to concentrate on the quality of music that we want. Improving standards by all means. So watch this space! Album number two is due out somewhere in December. Now it is just work, work and more work.
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WEDNESDAY 26th NOVEMBER 2014 WEEKEND EDITION, JUNE 12-14, 2015
SHOPPING
The mall has an aTm only lobby on The far lefT secTion of The ground floor offering access To cash from differenT banks.
How To Make SHoppiNg fuN We all know most men are not big on shopping, unless it’s an actual hobby for them or they’re just naturally fashionable. Shopping doesn’t come easy to most men, and we bet your boyfriend’s one of them. Find out how make his shopping experience equivalent to attending an EPL or Gor Mahia game. Well, maybe not that exciting, but you can try!
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troke his ego when you’re shopping with your man, let him know that you love his effortlessly casual style and that the shirt he’s wearing really brings out his style. Or compliment his clothing and relate it to one of his body parts in a positive way. Butter him up with a couple of these type of compliments to put him at ease and chase away the anxiety when you mention the “F” word (we mean “fashion,” of course). Start shopping After you’ve softened him up with compliments and heightened his confidence, subtly start picking out clothing for him that you think he would like. Start slow or else he’ll start to notice
your tactic. Casually pick out a collared shirt or casual tee and tell him how great it would look on him and why. Telling him exactly why is important because then you have a particular reason for picking that out. For example, tell him the collared shirt would look great on him because it has the clean-cut look (or whatever look he likes) that he tends to go for. Sales, sales, sales The casual guy will love sales because he’d rather spend his money on “more important” things (although what’s more important than clothes?). At any rate, direct him toward the sale rack. If he’s iffy about sales because he thinks they might be last season’s styles, assure him
for your boyfriend
that’s not true -- and even if it might be, no one will (hopefully) notice. Take your turn By this time he should be more comfortable with shopping and maybe even enthralled by looking for clothes for himself -- so you could sneak off and get your shopping in. You can mention that you’re leaving to shop for yourself now or you can just disappear -- it all depends how high his anxiety level is. Bonus Tip If you really want to make this shopping experience a great one for him, try on some lingerie and let him take a peek at you in it. He won’t mind shopping with you after that, hopefully!
MALLREVIEW
The Nakumatt Mega experience N
akumatt Mega mall may be one of the oldest malls in Nairobi, but it shows no sign of aging or falling out of business. Despite being located in close proximity to younger shopping malls such as Highway Mall and T Mall, Nakumatt Mega still maintains a loyal customer base. We reckon this is because of the class and sophistication associated with the mall over the years. Located along Uhuru Highway opposite the Nyayo National Stadium, the mall operates under the anchorship of Nakumatt supermarket which occupies most of the mall’s space with sub outlets within including Clarkes, sketchers and kids’ co. The supermarket
stocks all goods imaginable, ranging from household appliances, electronics to automotive parts and furniture. When visiting Nakumatt Mega, ensure that you visit lighting mania within Nakumatt Supermarket, where ridiculously priced chandeliers are on display. The sparkling glass chandeliers come in a two way variety, modern and vintage. Ivory boutique located on the ground floor of the one storied mall is hugely conspicuous even from afar, perhaps from the unique fashion trends stocked at the boutique which enjoys the monopoly of being the only one of its kind in the establishment. The mega flower shop that is
also on the ground floor is there to your rescue on those romantic occasions or in times when you just want to show a kind gesture. If you are one who likes taking it all the way when you want to treat your loved ones, you can stop by Tara Jewelry after buying them flowers and add some flashy rings, bracelets, neckpieces and watches to the obviously pleasant surprise. The mall has an ATM only lobby on the far left section of the ground floor offering access to cash from different banks operating within the country. Despite many popular Kenyan banks having installed ATM machines at Nakumatt Mega, Charterhouse bank is the only bank with a fully operational branch at the mall.
Other major outlets on the ground floor include Fone Express, Safaricom Shop, magnum Forex Bureau and Sonna Shoppe. The most outstanding outlet on the first floor of the mall is the extensive Avanti coffee shop. Unlike popular shopping mall practice that involves operating multiple eateries, Avanti Coffee Shop is the only food and drinks joint at Nakumatt Mega Mall. Nakumatt mega is a book junkie’s favorite chillspot, being home to two of the most prominent books stores in the country namely Text Book City and Books First store. One of the oldest but revered young people’s hangout joint, Sherlock’s Den is also proudly located in Nakumatt Mega Mall.
The fact that the mall is located right next to the Toyota East Africa showroom only adds to the sophisticated aura surrounding the mall which due to its geographical location is more accessible to personal vehicle motorists than to pedestrians. A 24 hour operational establishment is rare to find in Kenya, and Nakumatt Mega is one of the few outlets offering day and night shopping services. This has additionally made the mall popular among night owls and other individuals who are impatient with large crowds and congestion witnessed in shopping establishments during the day in the city especially in the rush hour.
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WEEKEND EDITION,JUNE 12-14, 2015
WEEKEND PLANNER
your comprehensive gig guide.
Poetry slam africa Contest WHERE: Pawa 254 state House crescent EntRancE: Ksh 250 advance, Ksh 500 at the gate. WHo: Fuse Sulle.
vanESSa cHEttLE
sunday
saturday
WHERE: Goethe Institute WHo: Shoeshine Boy tImE: 7 PM EntRancE: KSH 300 advance and 500 at the door.
saturday
rappercussions music concert
FBI dance HOT TOPICS Crew wins big in France
WHERE: Michael Joseph Centre WHo: Sali Oyugi, Sage Athieno, Christine Kamau tImE: 10 AM.
saturday
Women In musIC netWorkIng Forum
WHERE: sirville Lounge Galleria WHo: Vanessa Chettle tImE: 5PM
Out&About
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FBI Dance Crew won big last night at the Fetes Dance LE Monde Competition in France. They were participating in season 2 of the prestigious dance competition. The crew brought the judges and crowd to tears when they performed a dance piece that told the story of the ghastly Garissa terror attacks.
sauti sol does it again All boy band Sauti Sol are on a roll. The group has scored two nominations at this year’s MTV MAMA Awards! They were nominated in the Best Group category which they are battling out with B4 (Angola) Beatenberg (South Africa) Black Motion (South Africa) and P-Square (Nigeria) They have also been nominated in the best song category for Sura Yako. The awards will be held in South Africa on July 18th.
WHERE: Goethe Institute EntRancE: Ksh. 500 WHo: L-Ness, Kennet B tImE: 7 PM
SaLI oYUGI
SHoESHInE BoY
today the Cool shoe shine album Launch
adega heaBdBaud d
f you want to have a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the City life, then Adega Restaurant is the place to go to. It is a top class restaurant hidden inside the leafy suburb of Lavington. The place is simply breathtaking from the food to the ambience; you will be glad to check the place out. Adega has cuisines from different parts of the world and they are magnificent! This means the place is not that pocket friendly. Adega Restaurant caters for simple place relaxation and joy. It is very family friendly with a kid’s corner where they can play as their parents chill out.
If you want to experience a divine moment then you should try out their starters which range between Sh. 155- 650. Their sumptuous Tumperas go for Sh. 1150. Salads will set you back some good Sh. 575- 1550. Pasta is between Sh. 690- 1050. Fish and Seafood range between Sh. 1050- 1550. As for drinks, well, you will just have to do with virgin drinks! No alcohol at Adega! The virgin cocktails are from Sh. 400 to 600 while hot beverages start at Sh. 350 to 600. Adega is ideal for family treats, gatherings, birthdays or any other social events.
is where the continent meets the world
as for drinks, well, you will just have to do with virgin drinks! no alcohol at adega!
Sauti Sol
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WEEKEND EDITION, JUNE 12-14, 2015
FASHIONScoop
LAURA ANJILI IS CURRENTLY KENYA’S TOP MODEL ON THE RUNWAY. SHE LET US INTO HER CHIC CLOSET.
ClOseT RaiD How would you describe your fashion style? Chic, elegant and sophisticated.
laURa anJili Which beauty product can’t you leave the house without wearing? Even on a bad day, my fragrance never misses out. Which fashion trend have you sworn never to try and why? I can wear almost anything as long as I am comfortable but I like being unique. What is your fashion lust at
the moment? Christian Louboutin heels! I am definitely working for those at the moment. Which one do you prefer mermaid dresses or ball gown dresses? Ball gown dresses Who is your favourite fashion designer internationally and locally? Internationally, Geeebin. Locally, House of Tahzi. What is the fashion advice that you live by? Make an impression by showing your distinctive personality with your fashion sense.
What is the most treasured item in your closet? My adorable Calvin Klein sunglasses, I would get a dozen if I could.
Which jewellery are you often wearing? Chunky necklaces or pendant chains.
What is your fashion secret? Take risks. You will never be stylish if you don’t take risks.
TOP
10
HiTs easT aFRiCan
Rank
DIAMOND
MITEGO
LYPSO
What is your guilty pleasure (fashion wise)? Black lipstick.
TiTle
aRTisTe
1 2
Mapenzi au Pesa Salama
Nay wa Mitego ft Diamond Lypso
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Nakupenda
Antoneosoul and LAX Bamboo Sudi ft Jaguar Dazlah ft susumila Ivory Namara Papa Denis and Daddy Owen Frasha FT Rapdamu Wangechi
Too much potential Barua kwa rais Kidekide I see you Foundation Wale wabaya Cardiac arrest
PLAY 11 WEEKEND EDITION, JUNE 12-14, 2015
WEATHERFORECAST
DAILYHOROSCOPES CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan19 This could be one day in which you feel restless, and everything seems to take much longer than you’d like. Try your best to go with the flow. Quality is more important than speed, and a peaceful mind is more efficient and productive than a stressed one. AQUARIUS Jan 20 - Feb 18 Your sensitive, feminine side is likely to say one thing while your masculine, combative side says another. The key is to not act hastily in any situation. Make sure you proceed from a neutral platform instead of reacting from a point of aggression caused by someone else. PISCES Feb 19 - Mar 20 Be careful that you don’t put your foot in your mouth today, Pisces. You may have a tendency to jump the gun, so be conscious of how you use your energy. A false start is likely to get you disqualified. Orient yourself to your surroundings before you make any major upheaval.
FRIday 12/06/2015
sunny
22
SATURday 13/06/2015
More sun than clouds
22
21ºC 70%
6:31 am 6:34pm
23ºC 69%
6:31 am 6:34 pm
FRIday SUNday
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Fill in the blanks with the numbers 1-9. every row, column and 3x3 box must contain all nine digits with no repeated number. Yesterday’s Solution
ARIES Mar 21 - Apr 19 This could be a highly productive day for you if you approach it in the right way. You may feel more aggressive than usual, so use this to your advantage by delegating tasks and moving forward on projects that you’d like to see done.
Sudoku
TAURUS Apr 20 - May 20 You may feel a bit anxious today, Taurus, and it may be hard to settle down. You probably have many irons in the fire right now, and they’re all starting to heat up at once. Unfortunately, other people may not be especially sensitive to your needs, so beware. GEMINI May 21 - Jun 21 Your heart should feel quite generous today, Gemini. You’re most likely feeling the need to keep everyone smiling. Spread your radiant sunshine everywhere - it will be appreciated on a day like this. You can’t go wrong with compliments and positive encouragement. CANCER Jun 22 - Jul 21 You may feel the urge to get up and go today, Cancer. Follow this instinct and get to work. You’re anxious to get the ball rolling on certain projects. The key for you now is to make sure that the ones that are already started get done before you tackle the others. LEO Jul 23- Aug 22 You may feel threatened in some way. An aggressive attitude could be making you feel inferior or unworthy of certain attention. Wanting peace, justice, and harmony doesn’t make you wimpy or inferior, as some people may suggest. These qualities are your strengths, not your weaknesses. VIRGO Aug 23- Sep 22 You’re terrific at following through with projects, Virgo, but perhaps not so great at starting them. Today is the perfect time for you to prove this theory wrong. There’s a great deal of force out there to help you boost your rocket off the launching pad.
MUSTREAD Abyssinian Chronicles — by Moses Isegawa
Mugezi is a young resilient Ugandan. He manages to make it through Idi Amin’s hellish reign. He is constantly in a fight to break away from tyrannical rule of his parents. His father has always been distant since Mugezi was young. But his father lives to torment and oppress him. He cannot withstand his mother’s cruelty which she says is the catholic way of teaching. A cheeky young man, Mugezi does the unthinkable when he smears excrement on the priest’s car. His beloved aunt dies of AIDS and this shatters his spirit. Still, he goes on.
LIBRA Sep 23 - Oct 22 Your self-esteem is apt to be quite high today, Libra, and you may feel an extra bit of fire helping you throughout the day. Take the lead on projects that seem to be going nowhere. If you want the job done right, you may have to do it yourself. Don’t be shy. SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21 Be prepared for mild contention that could turn into an all-out war if you aren’t careful. Don’t take things too personally. Think of these disputes as challenges that will only make you stronger when you overcome them. Don’t get disgruntled or evasive. SAGITTARIUS Nov 22 - Dec 21 There may be tension in your heart today that could be difficult to shake, Sagittarius. You might find it hard to relate to people or that others aren’t hearing you very well. Keep in mind that you may have to translate your thoughts in order to get your message across.
INSTAMOMENTS 1 1
3
2
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Vote for winning pick of today’s top three instamoments (below) by sending an email with the picture number to: play@x-news.com
Yesterday’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.
winning captions
1. The 1. drink Trust he meiswhen sipping I tellmust you have I know been whatfermented I am doing-Martin from pineapples-BC, Jagero, Nrb Nrb 2. Guess 2. Authentic what I spent gun holster-The my entire salary poweron-Umhh is in the weapon-Caro pineapples and Migiro, drinks-FD, Nrb Nrb 3. His 3.main The real problem African now Ranger is dodging readypineapple for action-Dennis loving birds-Christine Mwanzio, Nrib M-Nairobi
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WEEKEND EDITION, JUNE 12-14, 2015
CROSSWORD Across 1. Deep wound 5. Keyboardist John 9. Disassembled 14. “The Godfather” villain Brasi 15. UN nuclear watchdog 16. Cobbler or pie fruit 17. Lamb and potatoes bowlful 19. Insurgent 20. ___ profundo 21. Cremona violin-maker 23. Tel Aviv suburb 25. Innocent young actress 30. Renovation 33. Appropriate 35. Pop 36. The shin bone 37. M. Clouseau, e.g. 39. State frankly 42. Small cluster 43. Cuts into little pieces 45. Coastal raptors 47. River in France 48. Charleston’s state 52. Brigadier general decoration 53. Pro’s vote 54. Writer Medeleine L’___ 57. Chews (at) 61. Cut of beef 65. “Yes!” 67. Play backer 68. Old Milan moolah 69. Sister of Ares
70. Truck ____ 71. Those, to Tomas 72. They come before Octs. Down 1. Like a smooth talker 2. Subtle quality 3. Biol. and astr. 4. Annoying ordeal 5. “My country, ____ of thee...” 6. “____ Bowl of Tea” (1989 film) 7. Look (like) 8. 50th state 9. Honest 10. Formerly called 11. A tiny bit 12. Skating surface 13. FedEx alternative 18. Tap-dances 22. Heavy wts. 24. Couples 26. Spew 27. Interstellar cloud 28. Bring together 29. French political divisions 30. Hero’s feat 31. Vitamin stat. 32. Early name in aspirin 33. Playground comeback 34. Lincoln’s side 38. Vets’ visitors 40. “Sold out,” at a theater (abbr.) 41. Sole 44. Jewish villages
46. Prolonged assault 49. Soup container 50. Diamond-shaped pattern 51. City on the Loire 55. Lane of “Superman” 56. French franc successor 58. Part of a plot 59. Flog 60. Mouth off to 61. Dorm heads, for short 62. Can. province 63. Before now 64. Mo. when autumn starts 66. Wanna-___ (poseurs)
Yesterday’s answers
YOURSAY
Fair gender and feminists are being hypocritical So a man in Nyeri had his ‘Pork Sword’ chopped off and all we have seen so far is the fun, jokes and stereotyping about the whole matter, not forgetting the sharing of those grotesque pictures. But when a woman got stripped the other day, we choked in immaterial noise and flop It’s sick when people argue the victim in question was simply
a hopeless drunken fool. Nothing justifies the jokes and fun that’s being made of that sad incident. We would really appreciate if womenfolk and feminists alike spared us the hypocrisy because if they don’t, the whole gender equity debate will simply remain noise to everyone’s ears. — Exasperated Man, Nairobi
Church, Restore and Maintain Moral Values In the world change, we need to know the unchangeable. Change is inevitable, but certainly there are things which by their very nature, cannot be subjected to change without losing their value and meaning. A point in case is church. What sets church apart from certain other institution entrusted with the task of cultivating man’s moral behavior is that it is anchored on eternal and fixed standards of moral norms and ethical obligation. We cannot change, update, and digitize church to stand the test of time and suit our selfish whims because it has a fixed system or code by which our
attitudes or actions are determined to be right or wrong. Unfortunately, the opposite is true these days. We do not hear the church on moral values anymore and I know why; because the church is not speaking. But if she is speaking, then she is soothing rather than teaching and rebuking. For sure, the church is not speaking on modesty anymore; the church is not telling our youths that it is music as worship in the church, and not music as an art or for esthetic desire. Thus, like the church like the world. — Phabian Paul Jr, Nairobi
Domestic violence needs to be kept in check Some parts in our country have been making headlines for all the bad reasons. Recently, a Nyeri chopped off her husband’s genitals and that has got the rest of the Kenyans started with the stereotyping. What happened to those days women used to love their husbands and will do everything to protect their families; when men were highly regarded with respect and were considered heroes of the land; when men used to be bread winners and would courageously marry even three wives unlike this generation where selfishness, cheating, drinking, immorality and laziness has become a norm? What will deliver us from this evil of domestic violence? — Hannah Karimi, JKUAT
Our legislators seem to have completely lost focus
Bridle your social media tongues Kenyans
I am writing this letter to complain about the manner in which our legislators conduct their business in the August House. Whilst the legislators are elected and represent the views of the electorate it is important to note that Members of Parliament have greatly failed in disseminating their duties. Case in point is the rejection of Monica Juma who was nominated by President Uhuru Kenyatta to the position of Secretary to the Cabinet. Even though legislators had their reasons, it is important to note that in their report, they accepted that Ambassador Juma is competent and deserves the opportunity only that during her tenure as interior principal secretary she
I partly concur with my fellow philosophers that there is no such a thing as “bad”, though I disagree on the idea that the concept of “bad” or “good” is deterministic and relativistic. The “badness’ of something is nothing but the “goodness” of something inside-out. Every good thing therefore, comes with its badness attached. Technological development is good and helpful in all aspects of life. Social network is one of the diverse tenets begotten by such development as we have witnessed lately, and it’s good. We can tweet, Skype, Facebook and email at will, whenever, wherever and however because everyone enjoys the freedom to do exactly that. However, I don’t think we have the freedom to abuse those services, and anyone thinking that freedom is liberation from any ethical codes is naive at this point. We have the laws of our own mind, of our own brains and of our own conscious to set our wondering habits aright. We are making the goodness of those services obscured by the bad, nasty languages we use many a times on social networks please — Phabian Paul Jr., Huruma
made it hard for anyone to access Harambee house the building that houses the President’s office. Legislators need to understand that Monica’s decision to restrict easy walk in and out of the President’s office was not to ridicule them but to employ tough measures during this hard time the country is facing due to insecurity. Do we need this tyranny of numbers? Is it even tyranny of numbers or tyranny of angry individuals who think everything must go their way? Something should be done sooner rather than later Mps must be tamed. — Dennis Toll Aseto, Embakasi
Send your letters to news@x-news.co.ke | Letters will be edited for summary and clarity
SPORT 13
Agwanda moves to Gor from Sofapaka
WEEKEND EDITION, JUNE 12-14, 2015
...But it might be sometime before he makes the starting XI Unbeaten in their opening 15 games, 12 points above the chasing pack and scoring goals from all cylinders while conceding none in their last 10, some would feel that record Kenya Premier League champions Gor Mahia should be at ease with their current squad. The two-time KPL defending champions have already started beefing up their squad by adding pace and power in the form of forward Enock Agwanda, their first signing in the June transfer window. The junior Kenyan international has been with 2009 champions Sofapaka for the last two seasons but has decided against extending his stay in favor of joining K’Ogalo, putting pen to paper on a two-year contract. The former Sony Sugar player, in an interview early this week, confirmed that he was leaving Batoto Ba Mungu for a bigger challenge; it now seems he has gotten one. Gor Mahia Assistant Secretary General Ronald Ngala confirmed the development while praising their newest acquisition. “We had expressed interest in Agwanda since June last year but were unable to get his signature because he was still contracted to
Sofapaka. I am glad he is ours now and I know that he will add value to the squad,” he said. The aggressiv forward, with a powerful throwin arm, was the first runners-up in the golden boot race last season, behind his new club’s former marksman Dan Sserunkuma. His goal return this season hasn’t been up to the standards he set in 2014 with only 3 goals under his name. With new employers though, he has one gargantuan task in his hands. Gor Mahia’s front three; attacking midfielder Ali ‘Teargas’ Abondo, leggy youngster Michael Olunga and Rwandese import Meddie Kagere have scored a whopping 26 goals among them in the KPL this season. That is more than any club in the league has in total. The whole Sofapaka team, placed second on the log, has scored 22 while the rest in the league have 20 or less. The trio have made the perfect combination. When not scoring, they have come out to set up each other’s goals—much like the MSN (Messi, Suarez, Neymar) trio. In joining Kogalo, Agwanda should aim at being like Pedro in the Barca team. A reliable
BULL OF A MAN: Agwanda is known for his aggressiveness when chasing the ball
third, even fourth-choice hitman, who will appreciate getting even the least of playing time under his belt, and always ready to step in and catch the manager’s attention. In short, the former Koderobara High School student should not expect Frank Nuttall to slot him right into the thick of it. The Briton has gotten the K’Ogalo machine
working like well-oiled clockwork. And despite Agwanda’s refined qualities that got his former coach Francis Barasa compare him to the legendary JJ Masiga, the youngster should be ready to clock a bit more time on the bench as he learns the trade from his Mayienga peers
Kenya begin yet another campaign to cup of Nations The national football team, Harambee Stars, flew out to Brazzaville, early Friday to begin their AFCON 2017 qualifying campaign, this Sunday. The game will be aired live on Supersport from 5pm Kenyan time. The full draw had 13 Groups. Kenya are in Group E alongside The Chipolopolo of Zambia, The Red Devils of Congo, and The Djurtus of Guinea Bissau. Kenya would never have got a luckier draw however much we tried. One cause for celebration is that we avoided the North Africans. Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, Egypt have always made minced meat out of us. Even at full-strength, we have consistently found it difficult bringing them down. Lady luck also spared us the West African powerhouses: Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, Mali, Senegal, Guinea. Our neighbours Tanzania must be consulting their jujumen as they wait to navigate through Nigeria and Egypt. Arnold Origi will not make it to Brazzaville, and this should be the least of our worries. In Boniface Oluoch, you have the most reliable glove man since Francis Onyiso. I think its time Origi retired from international duty, and focussed fully on club football. He has done his duty for us, and we shall remember him for saving our blushes in Namboole when he denied our noisy neighbours, Uganda, an almost assured berth at Gabon/ Equatorial Guinea 2012. What a show he put up that day.
Our national team coach, Bobby Williamson, will be our weakest link in Congo. The manner in which he got the Harambee Stars job was neither competitive nor justified. Against the white witchdoctor in Claude Le Roy, you have the most stubborn tactician ever to grace the African game. A draw in Congo, for The Harambee Stars, will be like winning the World Cup. Meaning whoever starts in front of the back four must be in tiptop condition. The new Teddy Akumu is rusty, unreliable and demoralised. Victor Wanyama has the tendency to disappear in
INFLIGHT: Wanga and Kahata take a selfie together.
international matches, he fears sticking his legs into tackles. In 50-50 challenges, he will always come second best, while playing for Harambee Stars. This is Gattuso Okoth’s game to shine. The Gor Mahia hard-man is a no nonsense tackler, a quality we shall need to check Congo’s roaming midfielders. Ali Abondo walks into that lineup without competition. He has been KPL’s standout performer in the half-season now gone by. Thievy Bifouma is Africa’s most-talked after left-winger, today. The twinkle-toed mohican only received FIFA clearance to play for Congo last August, from the French youth team, and has gone ahead to score 5 goals in 11 appearances for the Red Devils. He will be camping at Calabar Owino’s wing the entire time, or if life proves difficult for him there, he shall shift to go head-to-head with Musa Mohammed in centre-back. Anyone who manages to pocket him must receive a state commendation from State House this Jamhuri Day. The best form of defence is to attack, that is why Allan Wanga must start upfront with Michael Olunga. Olunga, the man Gor Mahia fans prefer to call ‘Midusa’ or the ‘Engineer’, is an accomplished ball-holder with the ability to take down a screaming ball with the coolness of a cucumber. You will never see a greater fox-in-the-box hunter than Allan Wanga. Paul Were is an impact player. I would love to see him introduced when we are running down the clock with our tails up. It can be done. — By Gabriel Oguda
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SPORT WEEKEND EDITION, JUNE 12-14, 2015
Kenya teams to play Elgon Cup named The Kenya ‘A’ and women’s squads to face their Ugandan counterparts in the first leg of the Elgon Cup, on Saturday 13 June at the RFUEA grounds have been named. Kevin Wambua, the head Coach for the ladies squad named his side that is conspicuously missing experienced and inspirational Doreen Remour who has been ruled out due to work commitments. In her absence Mwamba’s No.8 Camyline Oyuayo will lead the team to and on the pitch. In whole, seven new faces will make their
debuts for the Women side with three other new players making it to the bench. Former Kenya 7s star and KCB halfback named the Kenya ‘A’ squad that will be skippered by Nakuru RFC flanker Edwins Makori. Kenya ‘A’ has not lost the Cup since 2013 and is eyeing to make it third in a row. Kenya ‘A’ labored hard to see off Uganda 35-30 on Aggregate with the first leg in Nairobi also going to the wire. Kenya lost narrowly 1617 before working extra hard to overturn the scores and emerge champions by beating Uganda 19-13 in Kampala. In 2014 while trailing 14-21 in the first leg in Kampala, Kenya ‘A’ romped to a 34-0 shutout of Uganda that saw them win the Elgon Cup 48-21 on aggregate and make it a double victory over them since 2013. In 2013, Ugandan Ladies were lucky to beat the Lionesses, winning the Cup 30-26 on aggregate after overturning a 17 -18 loss to Lioness to beat them 13-8 and carry the mantle but that did not repeat in 2014 as the Kenya Lionesses proved too strong for the Ugandan Lady Cranes as they posted a 39-10 home win for a 72-25 aggregate win that saw them reclaim the title. Team Sheets
The Lionesses 15. Janet Akello (KCB), 14. Sinaida Aura (Mwamba*),
#TEAMKENYA: Kenya ‘A’ rugby side stroll into the pitch in a past Elgon Cup edition at the Kasarani Safaricom Stadium. Left: National women 15s rugby side in action. 13. Janet Awuor (Mwamba), 12. Philadelphia Olando (KCB), 11. Linet Moraa (Kenya Harlequin), 10. Kate Abila (Mwamba – Vice Captain), 9. Lydia Shikanda (Kenya Harlequin*), 8. Camyline Oyuayo (Mwamba – Captain), 7. Evelyn Odera (KCB), 6. Sheila Chajira (Kenya Harlequin), 5. Millicent Opala (KCB), 4.Racheal Adhiambo (Kenya Harlequin), 3. Emily Achieng Oloo (Mwamba), 2. Rosehilda Kamanga (Mwamba), 1. Emily Adero (Kenya Harlequin) Kenya ‘A’
15. Esau Otieno (KCB), 14. Alvin Otieno (Homeboyz RFC), 13. Anthony Nyandigisi (Impala Saracens), 12. Brian Omondi (KCB), Cyprian Kuto (Strathmore Leos), 10. Kennedy Omondi (KCB), 9. Eden Agero (Harlequins), 8. Charles Omondi (Nakuru RFC), 7. Edwins Makori (Nakuru RFC – Captain), 6. Abeka Stafford (KCB), 5. Philip Owuor (Nakuru RFC), 4. Michael Gitau Strathmore Leos), 3. Francis Akatu (Mwamba), 2. George Asin (KCB), 1. McLanhan Sikuku (Strathmore Leos)
Argentina’s La Albiceleste start as favourites to win Copa America World Cup runners-up Argentina start as favourites to win their first Copa America title in 22 years when this year’s tournament kicks off in Chile in the early hours of Friday morning.
Argentina were beaten by Germany in last summer’s World Cup final and will hope to go one better in the Copa, with Barcelona forward Lionel Messi captaining them.
Barca teammate Neymar is captain of Brazil but the third member of their attack, Luis Suarez, is suspended and misses out for holders Uruguay. Hosts Chile began their quest for
LOS GAUCHOS: FIFA 2014 World Cup runners-up Argentina start as favourites to win their first Copa America title in 22 years when this year’s tournament kicks off in Chile in the early hours of Friday morning.
a maiden Copa America title with victory over Ecuador in Santiago. Midfielder Arturo Vidal was brought down in the box by Miller Bolanos in the second half and picked himself up to convert the penalty for Chile. Former QPR man Eduardo Vargas netted the second, calmly slotting home, as Matias Fernandez was sent off late on. Ecuador’s best chance fell to West Ham striker Enner Valencia, who struck the crossbar with a closerange header. Chile have never won the competition in its 99-year history, coming runners-up on four occasions, the last being in 1987. And having reached the last-16 of the 2014 World Cup, the Chileans are third favourites behind Argentina and Brazil to lift the trophy this year. The three-week tournament sees 12 teams - 10 from south America and two invitees - compete in three groups, with the top two from each and the two best third-placed sides
progressing to the knockout games. The final is held in Santiago on 4 July. Uruguay beat Paraguay to win the 2011 competition but will badly miss Suarez, who is still suspended from international matches after biting Italy defender Giogio Chiellini during last summer›s World Cup finals in Brazil. Hosts Chile have never won the competition but impressed in Brazil and have in-form Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez in their ranks. Argentina have not won the cup since 1993 but with Messi joined by the recalled Carlos Tevez of Juventus, Manchester City’s Sergio Aguero and Gonzalo Higuain of Napoli they have formidable attacking options. Brazil appear to have recovered from their thrashing by Germany on home turf last summer and have plenty of familiar faces to a Premier League audience in their squad, with Liverpool playmaker Philippe Coutinho making the breakthrough into the side.
Nations Volleyball Championships light up Kasarani Indoor arena
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…as Malkia Strikers play hosts to test with Africa’s best in women volleyball Kenya named an experienced side, ready to defend the Africa Nations Championship Cup, which serves off Friday, June 12th at the Safaricom Indoor Arena in Nairobi, Kenya. The squad, unveiled by head coach, David Lung’aho will be anchored on Captain Praxcides Agala, Janet Wanja and Mercy Moim’s combined 30 years experiences with the national team. Assistant Captain, Wanja who made her national team debut in 2004 will be earning her fifth Africa Nation Championship Cup in a Kenyan jersey, same as Moim while Agala, who plays for Club Chamiliers in France will be making her fourth appearance in this Cup which Kenyan has won a record eight times. The fact that hosts Kenya will be facing a Tunisian side that denied them a world championship slot last year and Cameroon, 2013 Cup of Nations Silver medallist, doesn’t bother Wanja, twice Africa setter of the year who is upbeat her side will successfully defend the trophy they won in 2013 at the same venue. “We don’t just want to play, but play an entertaining game that will keep fans at the edge of the seats,” said Wanja, 31. “I am a bit anxious because we lost to Tunisia in the World Championship (qualifiers) but the fact that we now don’t depend on the government having secured sponsorship with National Oil Corporation last year, everyone is psyched up for the tournament, “added Wanja, a former Al Shams (United Arab Emirates) player. Lung’aho, the national coach said nothing would be sweet than as revenge when they take on the North Africans who beat them in the final of the World SPIKY QUEENS: Kenya up against Cameroon during a World Cup qualifier at Kasarani Indoor Arena, Nairobi.
#TEAMKENYA: Kenya women’s volleyball team during the 2011 FIVB World Championship in Japan.
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Championships qualifiers last year. Lung’aho recalled: “Tunisia denied us an opportunity to play in the World Championships last year. Even though that is history and a lot has happened, we will be looking to revenge that loss when we meet them.” He added: “It was hurting to lose in front of all our fans and so we will be looking forward to beating them when we take on them in front of the same crowd that we disappointed with that shocking loss.” Left attacker, Moim who turns up for Kenya Prisons in the domestic league will also earn her 5th Nations Cup in her 10 years of active play with the Queens who struck an annual Sh14 million sponsorship package with National Oil
for the next three years. This will make the trio the most experienced players in the Kenyan side that also boasts of towering Lydia Maiyo, Jane Wacu and Evelyn Makuto. Moim played her first game for national team in 2005 while still in High School. Her first Cup of Nations was in 2007 and she has never missed the subsequent editions. The colorful ceremony to unveil the Kenyan squad was attended by senior members of Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) led by President, Waithaka Kioni who challenged the players to win the championship. “By virtue of being the defending champions, I believe you are still the best in Africa, able to win this championship and proceed to the world Cup,” Kioni challenged the players. The weeklong championship, whose winner will represent the continent for the 2015 FIVB Women’s World Cup to be hosted in Japan August 22 to September 6, 2015, has attracted eight teams: Cameroon, Tunisia, Senegal, Mauritius, Botswana Morocco and Algeria. Kenya landed in a relatively easy pool ‘A’ draw that has Mauritius Botswana and Algeria ahead of the Africa Cup of Nation Women’s Volleyball Championship that serves off today at the Safaricom Indoor Arena at Kasarani. Pool B, by all standards is the Group of death which features, Cameroon, Tunisia, Morocco and Senegal.
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xnews | weeKenD eDITIOn, JUne 12-14, 2015 | www.x-news.cO.Ke
AFRICA NATIONS VOLLEYBALL CAHMPIONSHIPS KICK OFF IN KASARANI
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Treasury allocates Sh1.8 bn for construction of 3 stadia
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he National Treasury has allocated Sh1.8 billion for construction of three major Stadiums in Nairobi, Mombasa and Eldoret in the 2015/2016 financial year. In his budget statement to Parliament on Thursday, National Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich called on the Ministry of Sports, Arts and Culture to efficiently use the allocation by employing modern technology of construction. The Treasury CS pointed out that the Government will partner with private sector to
expand and modernize Sports facilities in the country. “Development and support of sports culture and heritage remain a key priority of government so us to nature the talent of our youth. As you all know Kenya is known throughout the world for its disputed command of athletics. Our athletes continue to do our country proud and we aim to develop a pool of such sportsmen and women. Our goal is to make Kenya a sports lab in the region and internationally,” Rotich announced. “As a start I have allocated Sh1.8billion
to construct a major stadium in Nairobi, Mombasa and Eldoret, this will encourage growth of youth talent of sports and nature them as a catalyst for growth and development,” the CS stated. The Jubilee government promised to construct five stadia in Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret and Garissa as well as rehabilitating the existing ones in five years. The county’s only international standard Stadia are Moi International Sports Centre Kasarani and Nyayo National Stadium both located in Nairobi but they are yet to
be fully refurbished. A fortnight ago, the Kipchoge Keino Stadium situated in Uasin Gishu County was officially opened after renovation that included the laying of the tartan track in the area that produces virtually all the track champions. The stadium was stalled since 2010 when the renovation works started after former President Mwai Kibaki ordered for a facelift of the facility. The construction of the three major Stadiums in the major cities will come in handy as the country prepares to host 2017 IAAF World Youth Championships in Nairobi.
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