TUESday, JUNE 16, 2015 | www.x-NEwS.co.kE
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Angle of AttAck senators plan referendum in supremacy war with mps
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shot in the Arm tourism sector welcomes sh5.2bn recovery fund
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fAshion scoop njema helena’s newest collection is oh-so-colourful
NEWS
KCB Boost squad with the arrival of four new players
star footBaller yaya toure the new faCe of airtel afriCa
Uhuru pushes for free trade in Africa
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resident Uhuru Kenyatta has urged African countries to reform trade policies at national, regional and continental levels to be in tandem with rules and regulations governing an enlarged free trade area. Uhuru was speaking at the launch of negotiations on the Continental Free Trade Area (CFTA) by African Union chair President Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe at Sandton International Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa. He said strengthened trade facilitation will reduce the costs and time for movement of goods and people across borders. “Let us also enhance and diversify production capacities in order to add value to Africa’s
primary commodities and boost regional and continental value chains,” he said. lUhuru, who was a panelist during the discussions, called for promotion of traderelated infrastructure (transport, energy, ICT among others), improved access to financing and establishment of frameworks for viable continental payments systems through banking and export guarantee systems. “CFTA means a lot to Africans. Jobs for the youth, peace and security, prosperity, selfreliance and meeting only to discuss our prosperity and not problems,” he added. CTF, formed just last week in Cairo, is the continent’s largest free-trade zone, covering 26 countries in an area from Cape Town to Cairo. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
positions of eaCC Bosses advertised
The process of replacing Ethics and AntiCorruption Commissioners has begun after a panel constituted by President Uhuru Kenyatta to interview interested persons advertised the positions. In an advertisement appearing in the dailies today, the panel’s vicechairperson Gladys Kianji called on qualified Kenyans to apply for the position of chairperson and the two others for commission members. Those seeking to become the chairperson must be degree holders from a recognized university in Kenya. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
Supreme Court Judge Justice Smokin Wanjala chairs the panel to interview candidates.
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REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT EFFORT: President Uhuru Kenyatta speaking at the launch of negotiations on the Continental Free Trade Area (CFTA), in South Africa.
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NEWS TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2015
Uhuru vouches for Free Trade From Page 1 It is intended to ease the movement of goods across member countries which represent more than half the continent’s GDP. The CFTA, spanning three economic blocs of Africa i.e. SADC, the EAC and the COMESA, will aid intra-trade by creating a market of 625-million people with a gross domestic product of more than $1-trillion. CFTA is envisaged as a stepping
stone to the continent-wide free trade area by 2017 after more than a decade of plus-five percent a year growth on average in African economies. “Pooling economies and markets together through regional integration will provide a sufficiently wide market space to make economies of scale possible for African industries and allow Africa to play its rightful role in the global market,” President
Kenyatta said. He said CFTA will boost intra Africa trade besides promoting regional and continental integration. It will also develop larger markets, foster greater competition which in turn will result in poverty reduction, growth and sustainable development, the President added. “Kenya welcomes road map for achieving CFTA by 2017, with
the underlying principle being to build upon the current levels of tariff liberalization amongst Regional Economic groupings (RECs) and existing achievements of the RECs,” he added. While launching the negotiations, President Mugabe told African leaders to put mechanisms in place to remove barriers that may impede free trading between countries and economic blocs.
385 schools lands grabbed, says Lands Commission The National Lands Commission has received more than 385 reports of school land grabbing this year. This follows the directive of the Commission to the schools on the ownership of their lands as well as title deeds. Commission vice chairperson Abagail Mbagaya Mukolwe, ( Pictured right) however, says a few of the grabbed lands have been recovered and the title deeds revoked. “We have revoked about 10 in Kakamega, Eldoret, Nakuru and also Nairobi. You know everybody who claims to have a title deed must be heard, to get to know how they got them. So it’s a process, “She said. She said the commission is working closely with the county governments and the National government to fully recover the grabbed lands. NLC says it is still waiting for more reports from school heads. Early this year, a playground
belonging to Langata road Primary School was grabbed resulting to a demonstration staged by the pupils who were later teargased by the police. However, the Lands Commission is yet to recover any land grabbed from any police station. This is despite reports that about 5 police stations in Nairobi were among those whose lands were grabbed. Mbagaya says the commission will be moving into the recovery of this land after clearing the standard Gauge Railway issue which is currently being handled by the commission. Already there is some land that was grabbed along the Standard Gauge Railway awaiting compensation. “That has been the challenge, because somebody comes up claiming to own a land, yet it is suspicious because we have already received cases of grabbing, “She says. She has revealed that among the
grabbed lands along the Standard Gauge Railway project is 2 police stations. She says they commission will also be moving to recover markets that have also been grabbed. In January this year President
Uhuru Kenyatta directed the Ministry of Lands and the Nairobi County government to issue title deeds to all schools in the name of school committees and boards of governors.
AU summit hailed as milestone in women empowerment Cabinet Secretary Amb. Amina Mohamed has said the African Union Summit in South Africa marks a milestone in the empowerment of women in the continent. Speaking in South Africa where she accompanied President Uhuru Kenyatta for the Summit, the Cabinet Secretary said the 25th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union was convened under the theme “2015 Year of Women Empowerment and Development towards Africa’s Agenda 2063”. “The theme of the Summit is expected to renew and reinforce political commitment by African leaders, and all stakeholders, for promoting and sustaining empowerment of women,” said the CS. The Cabinet Secretary sad the overarching objective of the theme is to define strategic actions to fully support women capacity building and access to resources in order to ensure their full participation in national development processes. “The Heads of State and Government are being called upon to fully implement the five AU Gender Architecture policies and to increase engagements and actions on women empowerment,” said the Cabinet Secretary. Amb. Amina Mohamed further said the Summit also considered a report on the first ten-year Implementation Plan of the African Union Agenda 2063 - Africa’s 50 year development blueprint - and its financing mechanism. Key to discussions on Africa Agenda 2063 were deliberations on alternative sources of funding AU programs and activities. “Currently the Union’s programmes budget is predominantly funded by external partners such as the EU, USAID, UNDP and the French Development Agency (AFD),” noted Amb. Amina.
paneL advertises vaCant eaCC jobs From Page 1 They also must have knowledge and experience of not less than 15 years in either ethics and governance, law, leadership, public administration, social studies, economics, audit, accounting, fraud investigations, public relations and media or religious studies. “They should also meet the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution and must have had a distinguished career in his/her respective field,” the announcement said. Those interested in becoming commission members must have at least ten years of experience in their respective fields. “A person shall not be qualified for appointment if such a person is either a member of a governing body of a political party, is an undischarged bankrupt, has
been convicted of felony or has been removed from office for contravening provisions of the constitution,” the panel said. Prospective candidates were ask to either apply manually or online at eaccselectionpanel@publicservice.go.ke by July 6, 2015. Copies of recent clearances from CID, HELB, KRA, EACC and any other credit reference bureaus should also be attached. EACC was left without commissioners last month after President Kenyatta suspended Chairman Mumo Matemu and his deputy Irene Keino. The other commissioners Jane Onsongo had resigned earlier in March. Both Matemu and Keino too resigned after their suspension. President Kenyatta last week appointed the nine-member panel to look for
their replacements. The panel is chaired by Supreme Court judge Smokin Wanjala. It will now shortlist, interview and recommend names for vetting by Parliament and subsequent appointment by Mr Kenyatta. The other members of the selection panel are Ms Winfred Lichuma of the National Gender and Equality Commission and Ms Maryanne NjauKimani of the Office of the AttorneyGeneral, Sheikh Adan Wachu of the Inter-Religious Council of Kenya, Mr Peter Wakoli of the Media Council of Kenya, Mr Titus Ndambuki of the Public Service Commission, Mr Kennedy Kihara of the Office of the President and Kagwiria Mbogori of the Kenya National Human Rights Commission.
NEWS 3
CARTOONSPEAK
TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2015
Sleeping makes you beautiful, new research confirms Sleeping early makes a person look younger, healthier and more attractive, new research has confirmed. Some studies have even suggested that the right amount of sleep can make a person look seven years younger. On the other hand, sleeping late makes people look older, sickly and somewhat exhausted. One study, published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, used a precise, scientific face-measuring system called photogrammetry to measure the youthfulness and attractiveness of 20 patients who underwent a sleep treatment procedure. Despite being roughly the same age, it was discovered that those who got enough sleep looked younger while those who didn’t often looked older. Similar studies carried out across the globe tend to agree. In another survey collected by what is known as the Sleep Cycle app, it was revealed that South Af-
NEWS BRIEFS
Poverty is fueling terror in Africa, says CS Amina
ricans are generally the first people in the world to get up in the morning. Based on previous studies, those who get a full nights’ sleep should look younger than their night-prowling counterparts. Yet another study carried out in the US-based Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology in Los Angeles used a technique known as sleep deprivation to measure the youthfulness of patients’ faces after a night without sufficient rest. In the study, some patients had their sleep restricted between 3am and 7am with another uninterrupted night of sleep to recover. “Our data support the hypothesis that one night of not getting enough sleep in older adults activates important biological pathways that promote biological ageing,” explains on Dr Judith Carroll, an Assistant Professor of psychiatry and bio-behavioural science who led part of the study.
MPs to debate Uhuru rejection of Raila perks
pension wars: mps from both sides of the house are set to renew their rivalry this afternoon when debate on pensions of former prime minister raila odinga and ex-Vice president Kalonzo musyoka starts.
MPs from both sides of the house are set to renew their rivalry this afternoon when debate on a presidential memorandum vetoing a Bill providing for the pensions of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and ex-Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka starts. President Uhuru Kenyatta rejected the Retirement Benefits Bill insisting that both Odinga and Musyoka need to retire from politics if they are to get their pensions. Mr Odinga has since termed that demand malicious saying it is unfair to deny him his deserved right. The Bill, which had been sponsored by Suba MP John Mbadi was eventually passed by the legislators after several months of lobbying. But Majority Leader Aden Duale says he does not expect to face resistance from the Opposition when he submits the memorandum of the Bill for debate this afternoon. The opposition lawmakers numbering just 137 will have to convince close to another hundred colleagues allied
to the Jubilee alliance in order to get the two-thirds majority of 232 members required to overturn the Presidents memorandum. President Kenyatta also slashed Raila’s pension package from Sh21.6 million which the MPs had proposed to Sh14.4 million. If MPs fail to raise the two-thirds threshold, it means the clause will remain. House Minority Leader Francis Nyenze said they were to meet earlier on and strategise on a way of ensuring the opposition leaders get their pension. In his memorandum to the House, President Uhuru Kenyatta said he rejected the Bill, because he wants the CORD co-principals to relinquish their party positions if they are to qualify for the pensions. Odinga and Musyoka who have both expressed interest in the 2017 presidential race, have protested the imposition of conditions before they are paid their dues, saying they will not be blackmailed into quitting elective politics.
WHAT OTHERS SAID TODAY... how KdF trailed lamu attacKers: Kenyan military Intelligen e had tracked the al Shabaab militiamen killed on Sunday morning for over four months, after finding out that they had sneaked back into the country, the Star has established. The Star exclusively reported on May 29 that Luqman Osman Issa and his gang of terrorists had sneaked into Kenya and were planning attacks. Intelligence reports indicate that Issa, aka Shiriwa, was the leader of a gang that sneaked into the country sometime in Febraury and had been hiding with his group in Boni Forest as they prepare for a Mpekotoni-like attack...
briton behind lamu terrorist gang Killed: A British man and a senior Kenyan Al-Shabaab commander were among terrorists killed in an abortive raid at a military camp in Lamu County on Sunday. Thomas Evans, 25, was from Buckinghamshire in the United Kingdom, while Issa Lukman Osman, 31, was from Kikowani, Mombasa. Both were on a police watchlist of wanted suspects. However, their identities were not officially confirmed because DNA tests were still being carried out. The Englishman had adopted the name Abdul...
Kenyan and briton behind mpeKetoni attacKs Killed: Two Kenyan commanders in Somalia’s Al-Shabaab and a British jihadist Thomas Evans, also known as Abdul Hakim – who joined the terrorists after converting to Islam at the age of 19 – are among 11 militants killed by Kenya Defence Forces ( KDF). Evans was allowed to travel abroad by British authorities who ignored warnings from his mother after she expressed her concern at his behaviour. Among the Kenyan Al-Shabaab commanders killed is Luqman Osman Issa alias Shirwa...
Poverty, porous borders and a thriving illicit arms trade in Africa have been identified as some of the factors promoting terrorism and extremism in Africa. “The result is that extremist groups are flourishing, particularly in the Maghreb region, in Sahel region and in the Lake Chad Basin areas,” Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Cabinet Seceretary Amina Mohamed told an AU meeting in South Africa. She stressed the need for the African Union, and the international community as a whole, to combine efforts in fighting terrorism and militant extremism through measures that address the very conditions that feed violent extremism on the continent.
Two killed in raid at Gachie Police are looking for a gang that raided an Mpesa shop and shot dead two people in a robbery in Gachie area, Nairobi. The Gang of Four was armed with an AK 47 rifle when they raided the premise and demanded cash. Police say an argument arose between the gang and a group of people who were there that led to the shooting. One of the victims died on the spot while the second one succumbed to his injuries in hospital. Police say they are looking for the thugs who struck a day after another one armed with an AK 47 rifle also attacked a bar in Dandora and killed a patron.
Chad’s suicide attack kills 23 At least 23 people have been killed and more than 100 injured in suicide attacks in the Chadian capital N’Djamena, officials say. Attackers on motorcycles blew themselves up outside two police buildings, say witnesses. Corpses and body parts lay on the sandy street outside the police headquarters, alongside the wreckage of motorbikes used by the suicide bombers, they say. Chad’s government has blamed Nigeria’s militant group Boko Haram, but the group has not commented. Boko Haram had “made a mistake targeting Chad”, and would be “neutralised” Communications Minister Hassan Sylla Bakari said.
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NEWS TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2015
Senators plan referendum in supremacy war with MPs Senators are now planning to push for a constitutional change through a national referendum to strengthen its role in steering devolution. During a special sitting convened Monday, Minority Leader Moses Wetangula and his Elgeyo Marakwet counterpart Kipchumba Murkomen both insisted that the move is the only sure way of protecting devolution, which they say is under attack from the National Assembly. “The committee we want to set up has to look at fast tracking on how in the new move to change the Constitution, this House becomes the Upper House properly,” said Wetangula. The special session, which resolved to form a nine-member select committee to come up with the proposed amendments, was called to discuss the reallocation Sh1 billion from their oversight kitty by the National Assembly. “The committee will within three months recommend to the Senate constitutional, le-
FRESH PLOT: Elgeyo Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen. Senators are now planning to push for a constitutional change through a national referendum to strengthen its role in steering devolution.
gal or institutional changes that it may consider appropriate,” said Murkomen. Other institutions that were ‘preyed’ upon by the National Assembly according to the Senate are the Judiciary which lost Sh800 million from its capital allocation, the Salaries and Remuneration Commission which had to part with
Sh200 million from its recurrent allocation and the Treasury which lost Sh325 million allocated to the IFMIS program. The Senators have also threatened to lobby to have the Constituency Development Fund usually under the control of the Members of the National Assembly allocated directly to counties.
“If the National Assembly feels that the Senate is not entitled to a small fund to carry out oversight, the High Court has already said the CDF is unconstitutional and cannot be passed without the input of the Senate so they should choose, it is either we have a fund for all or a fund for none,” warned Wetangula.
“Whatever clothing they want to give to the CDF, we will go back to the courts’ judgment; we want this money to go the counties.” Wetangula further warned the National Assembly against passing the CDF law without the input of the Senate saying they will challenge it to ensure it is not implemented.
AU honoUrS MAAthAi, nAMeS gArden After her The African Union has celebrated and honoured the late Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Prof Wangari Maathai by naming the gardens in front of its headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia after her. The proposal to honour the late Kenyan environmentalist was made by Congo during the just concluded 25th AU Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. “The overall objective is to highlight the work and achievements of the late Prof Wangari Maathai and identify how best the African Union can continue to commemorate and celebrate her life,” the delegate said in the proposal. Congo said it is imperative for Africa to distinctly recognise the achievements and contributions of Wangari Maathai. The Executive council of ministers in adopting the proposal, noted that celebrating Africans like Wangari Maathai, who worked tirelessly to better the continent, acknowledges the struggle of the individuals and inculcates their legacy.
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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 97.2465 151.0314 108.8667 7.8067 32.5462 22.7052
BUY SELL 97.1694 97.3235 150.9111 151.1517 108.7600 108.9733 7.7978 7.8156 32.4690 32.6234 22.6358 22.7746
Uhuru to Africa: Forge pacts to benefit from green energy President Uhuru Kenyatta has urged African countries to forge partnerships that identify and take full advantage of the available opportunities to benefit from the economies of scale. The president said, Kenya and other African country’s need to stick on with the renewable energy and agree on partnering to share the resources. “We have an unusually large supply of geothermal energy, for example, and Green energy
CITY PLANS
accounts for some 70 per cent of our power generation at present – well ahead of the pack on our continent,” President Kenyatta said. He said, for those countries whose resources endowments is different from ours should not despair off the path of green growth but to partner with us. Speaking during a meeting on climate change on the sidelines of the ongoing 25th AU Summit in Johannesburg South Africa,
Uhuru said, Kenya has chosen an ambitious low-carbon and climate-resilient path with extensive green economy programs to restore degraded ecosystem. “The shift to green growth is a mix of both policies and programs touching on investments in renewable energy, promotion of clean and resource-efficient production,” the President said. According to the president, firm policy commitments,
held talks with south Sudan president Salva Kiir where they discussed IGADs effort to restore peace in Africa’s youngest nation. He later attended a meeting of troop-contributing countries in Somalia on strategies of eradicating Al Shabaab militants. President Kenyatta also held talks with the Vice President of Cuba Miguel Diaz-Canel where they discussed issues of mutual interest between the two countries.
SafaricOm lauNcheS real eState prOject iN machakOS
THE LEADERS: Machakos County Governor. Alfred Mutua (left) and Safaricom CEO Bob Collymore.
CAPITAL ALERT Aids Fonds, a Dutch fund organization, is offering NGOs up to Sh131 million in funding, to submit proposals on data driven improvement with regard to testing services for people most at risk for HIV. The programme aims to improve HIV testing services in order to increase the number of people
the National Climate Change Response Strategy and sound legislation have strengthened country’s commitment to green growth. President Kenyatta further said by 2030 more than 3.1 million people will be out of poverty since his government has invested more on Agriculture, Energy, Manufacturing and Transport which are key sectors with potentially transformative. The same day, President Kenyatta
Safaricom Limited, through its Safaricom Staff Pension Scheme (SSPS), has launched a Sh3.4 Billion real estate investment project in Machakos County. Dubbed Crystal Rivers, the mixed use development is the first such project undertaken by SSPS, and will be the first of its kind in Machakos County. The announcement comes at a time when rapid infrastructure development is having a considerable impact on Kenya’s property markets, says a recent report by leading real estate dealer, Lamudi. The Machakos development project, in particular, demonstrates the preference of property developers and homeowners to set up shop on the outskirts of Nairobi. These developments are driving a property boom in urban and peri-urban locales away from the city. Crystal Rivers sits on 25.5 acres comprising 270 three and four bedroom residential units. The development houses a commercial centre, complete with shops, a hospital, restaurants, conference facilities, cinema and casino, and rehabilitated
riparian land. Speaking when he officiated over the groundbreaking ceremony, Machakos Governor Dr. Alfred Mutua lauded the partnership between Safaricom and the County. He expressed optimism about the economic impact the project would have on the area. “Thanks to Crystal Rivers we foresee an increase in commercial activities that promise to create more employment opportunities, improve the County economy and open up the area to more investment, as investors seek to take advantage of the County’s proximity to Nairobi City and JKIA,” said Governor Mutua. The project seeks to capitalize on the real estate market in Machakos County, which has in the past few years, enjoyed a construction boom. “With this project, we expect to contribute significantly to the economic growth of Machakos County, which has proved to be a leader in development following the implementation of devolution,” said Safaricom CEO Bob Collymore.
Dutch fund giving local NGOs Sh131 million in funding
that know their status as early as possible after infection, Rashmi Kanti, a spokesperson on behalf of the group has said. Countries eligible for the grants include Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, Uganda, India, Mozambique, Russia, Indonesia, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Zambia, China, Cameroon, Malawi, and
Ethiopia The deadline for applications is 21 June, 2015. A maximum budget of 300,000 Euros (Sh33 million) is available for each programme for a duration of three years (maximum of Sh11 million per year). The total available budget is approximately 1.2 million Euros
(Sh131 million). NGOs applying for the grants are advised to focus on initiatives that will find innovative ways to tackle data gaps in knowledge on HIV prevalence. Those applying are advised to “seek novel approaches in communicating to people most at risk for HIV, incentivizing them to
know their HIV status.” A statement from Kanti has revealed that NGOs that “promote health among their peers, diagnose people living with HIV earlier in their infection, and link people to care more effectively and efficiently” will also have an added advantage.
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BUSINESS TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2015
UK firm laUnches ‘emoji Pin codes’ Online banking just got interesting as a British firm launched an emoji passcode service alternative to the fourdigit pin code. Intelligent Environments said that there are more potential combinations of the 44 emojis compared to the numbers 0-10 making theirs more secure. “Why can’t financial service be fun and innovative?” said David Webber, the managing director of Intelligent Environments, “the system was designed to appeal to 15-25-year-olds and it is an interesting and potentially valuable step forward.” The firm claims that some digital banks have already expressed interest in the idea and cyber security experts have agreed that people will
find it easier to remember images than numbers. “The use of patterns and images was already used by some firms as a useful alternative to remembering complex sequences of numbers and letters,” said Professor Alan Woodward a cybersecurity expert, “if we persist in using passwords we need to recognise how humans think and make these as easy to remember as possible.” The emoji passcode service has been said to be statistically harder to crack as the combinations and permutations would present a hacker with a difficult time when running through a number of cycles that is even greater than the four-digit pin code.
GAME CHANGED: A British firm has launched emoji passcode service to replace the four digit pin code , a move that experts say will help enhance cyber security
Tourism sector welcomes Sh5.2bn recovery allocation
THANKS FOR THE MONEY: Kenya Tourism Board director Muriithi Ndegwa in a previous fucntion. The tourism sector is happy with the Treasury after it allocated Sh5.2 billion for the industry’s recovery.
The tourism sector is happy with the Treasury after it allocated Sh5.2 billion for the industry’s recovery. Kenya Tourism Federation Chief Executive Agatha Juma the allocated amount is the highest the sector has ever received as she also urged the Tourism Ministry to immediately embark on reassuring the markets in Kenya’s key sources. Juma assured the money will not be misappropriated and asked the ministry to increase the diverse tourism products that Kenya has to offer. “We need to clarify issues regarding Ebola threats and security measures and what the government has put in place to secure its citizens and visitors alike and we hope to see positive results,” she said. Other areas the money could be allocated for include beefing up of the tourism police unit and partnering with airline charters according to Kenya Hotel Keepers Association CEO Mike Macharia. “Insecurity and perceived Ebola threats have negatively impacted on Kenya as a tourist destination leading to low tourism activities especially at the coastal region,” he said. According to Muriithi Ndegwa, the managing director Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), the sector will scale up tourist arrival numbers by the end of this year owing to the numerous international events taking place in Kenya. “The events will provide the country with an opportunity to market its attraction and boost its image as the best holiday destination,” Ndegwa said. Some of the mega events Kenya is expected to host this year include the 40th Africa Travel Association (ATA) Congress, which will take place in November. KTB has allocated Sh140 million for a global advertising campaign and Sh15 million towards charter airline promotions and volume tour operators to ease on traffic to the destination. Ndegwa believes tourism will increase by the end of the year only if security is tightened.
faShion Scoop
TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2015
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ACCESS topstory
scoop
Like all music awards there must stem beef between artistes. Last weekend pitted Bongo’s finest Ali Kiba against Diamond Platinumz.
Not to be down played Diamond used reverse psychology. He took to social media and asked fans not to vote for him as he already won enough awards! He had ten nominations but only took home three, did his strategy work?
diaMond
ali Kiba
SupreMacy leSSonS froM Kili awardS
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usic in Tanzania is a huge deal. This has seen Bongo produce some of the biggest songs across East Africa. The country viciously supports their own and turn up in large numbers whenever their artistes have performances. The last decade has seen a succession of top names with hit songs and albums from Tanzania to the world. Bur nothing it seems, prepared Bongo for the rise and rise of Diamond Platinumz.From humble beginnings, the 25 year old soon to be father, is the talk of Africa and probably Tanzania’s best musical export. But, Ali Kiba is not to be taken lightly. Having taken a beating and a hiatus for almost two years, the mellow voiced,
handsome musician is reenergized and ready to take back his rightful position. It was therefore natural that Kilimanjaro awards would validate his dreams or kill them once and for all. Happily, he soared. Ali Kiba was nominated in five categories and he took home all the five awards. This is all thanks to his campaign strategy. The artiste used social media to his advantage and campaigned vigorously for fans to vote for him. He used celebrities as his influencers. One such celebrity was Diamond’s ex, Wema Sepetu who posted picture after picture asking her followers to vote for Ali Kiba. Never mind that she could have asked fans to vote for her ex.Rumour mills were rife that Wema had found
comfort in the arms of Kiba. Not to be down played Diamond used reverse psychology. He took to social media and asked fans not to vote for him as he already won enough awards! He had ten nominations but only took home three, did his strategy work? According to Diamond, there are other more talented artistes in the industry who were also doing great with their music and it was unfair to sideline them. The star had said he was not campaigning for votes because he felt other artistes deserved the win. He said the awards had been established to help promote Tanzanian artistes and they were not promoting the industry if they kept on nominating him every year leaving out great up and coming talent. The singer
went on ahead to name artistes he felt had great music and videos and who the awards had left out. Smart move. However industry insiders say that Diamond is secretly concerned that Kiba could be back to take his place as Bongo’s sweetheart. Adding that his latest jet trotting lifestyle coupled with fathering a child with Uganda’s socialite has not gone down well with his fans. Quizzed Ali Kiba thanked his fans and said there was no beef between him and Diamond. Are the two angling for bigger beef? A fan summarised this feud thus: Ali Kiba is Bongo’s favourite son while Diamond is Bongo’s most popular son. Go figure.
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ACCESS
WEDNESDAY TUESDAY, JUNE 26th 16,NOVEMBER 2015 2014
ARTWORLD
ART WASHES AWAY FROM THE SOUL, THE DUST OF EVERYDAY LIFE.
extreme PaPer art D
artshock
rawing is an art in itself. Everybody can draw, it is the degree of skill that makes all the difference. Danish artist Husk Mit Navn has taken creativity to another level. He has taken his love for drawing and made it into unforgettable art. He brings to life comical situations and characters with creative paper drawings. His drawings spur imagination and showcase his impressive drawing skills. This is shown in drawings which seem to be jumping right off the paper. It is almost like his drawings are in 3D. He even goes further to fold the paper in strategic places to create these allusions. His works created a buzz online with people praising his sense of vision.
OUR R00TS
Special death rituals among the Pokot Almost every community in Kenya has a special ritual when it comes to death. The Pokot are no exception. Whereas most communities mourned their dead, the situation is different among the Pokot people; they have no funeral ceremony and no singing accompanies the burial of the body. Pokot believe that if an individual looks or touches a dead body he will be the next to die! So deep is the belief that as soon as they realise that a person was about to die, the families would abandon the place, never to return. If the deceased is a man, it would take just one night to get over his death. But if it is a young unmarried woman, she would be mourned for many years because her death was considered a lost chance for getting bride’s wealth in form of cows! If a Pokot warrior died at war, no tears were shed. His remains were left at the blood-soaked battlefield to be consumed by wild animals. They believe that his spirit would haunt his killers and their entire generation. They said that when the rains come, and the ground sprouts, his kin revisits the site with their cattle to graze over the tufts of grass where their man bled to death.
the
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SenSe
here are six things Josphat Githaiga holds dear as a modern day artist: Unique reflections of light, beautiful eyes, lustrous hair, captivating culture, breath taking landscapes and luring sounds. These are his inspiration to creating masterpieces. Josphat’s artistic history dates back to when he was in class five. He started by trying as much as possible to create exact replicas of the cartoon characters featured in his favorite comic books. The Business Administration and Information Technology specialist always has materials such as Canvas, paperboards, paper mashe (smashed and grinded papers mixed with binding agents), Oil paint, acrylic paint and brushes at arm’s length for painting his masterpieces which take between a week and a month to complete.
githaiga When it comes to describing his art, he only has one word; unique. “My art is unique because I don’t really follow trends. Instead, I paint from my imagination” In a field that he perceives as being all about “feelings and expressions”, Githaiga lives by the principal of choosing his own perceptions and painting what he feels is right, as opposed to what the society thinks is right, in order to position himself differently. “Most people think art is about painting culture and tribe mosaic, but I put it as I see it,” he tells XAccess confidently. J o s p h a t currently works as a construction site manager but still finds time for his art. He says
he has faced numerous challenges when pursuing his passion for the arts including discrimination from people who have no respect for artists, discouragement as well as lack of support, because most people do not view art as a viable career. Josphat is optimistic and generally feels that the art scene is currently at a better position as compared to the past year. “The art industry is at a good place, and I think we are headed in the right direction. I say this because these days, artists are able to hold several exhibitions where we can show people our talent.” Josphat is absolutely sure that he is among the crème de la crème of Kenyan painters and says he intends to keep improving until he gets to the level of Ronaldal Da Vince who is his all-time favorite artist and role model.
ACCESS TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2015
There iS no need To hide fAcTS from your friend if you hAve AmASSed SufficienT evidence.
sosuun pens scathing letter to Kenyan artistes
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aboutLove
HOT TOPICS
Yesterday rapper Sosuun best known for latest hit Sura ya kazi spoke her mind about the Kenyan music industry. She started off by congratulating Sauti Sol for their numerous nominations and wins. Then geared off to pointing fingers at artistes and industry stakeholders sosuuN whom she accused of petty in fighting. “My biggest concern is our stakeholders in Kenyan music industry. Most are doing little if not nothing to take our music to greater heights. There is a lot of complaining and negativity instead of people focusing on how to better the industry.”
North West birthday bash at Disneyland
Give way for Celebvilles most powerful tot. North West turned 2 and Mum Kim K went all out almost shutting down Disney land. The party included their close family and friends. Kylie came with her rumoured boyfriend who also brought his young son King.Matriach Kris Jenner and Khloe did not make it to the party.
When should you
intervene W
e all have that one naïve friend who when it comes to love, are as blind as a bat. Their partners may be lying to their faces but they won’t notice. To everyone else, they seem too forgiving but in their own opinion, everyone deserves a second chance…and a third and a fourth. It is painful to watch! As a true friend there comes a time when you need to open their eyes but when?
bobby Kristina to die peacefully at home
Bobby Kristina Brown is being discharged from hospital and taken home to die peacefully. She has been in a coma since January when she was found unresponsive in her bathtub. Reports state that Bobbi will be moved to her mother’s home to pass away there. She was at one point taken out of the medically induced coma but she kept on having seizures that doctors had to put her under again. The family has on numerous occasions refuted claims of Bobbi Kristina being brain dead saying she was alive but it seems it is time to say goodbye.
ASK dr X Dear Dr X,
iN your frieND’s relatioNship?
When they becomes a target of mockery When you start seeing people pointing fingers and whispering behind your friend’s back, then it’s time to intervene regardless of the consequences. You cannot just sit around and watch people mocking your friend just because you are unsure of their rea ction once confronted with the harsh reality. Your friendship would better end with you being a good and honest friend rather than it ending because your friend realizes that you knew they were being lied to all along and you did not bother to enlighten them. When you have irrefutable evidence There is no need to hide facts from your friend if you have amassed sufficient evidence proving their partner’s misdeeds. It would be better if you showed him/her the evidence and they decide to brush it off, rather than not
showing it to them at all. You cannot be too sure of how they will react once confronted with the evidence, but you have nothing to lose by sharing what you know with the victim. So do it. When your conscience starts ‘eating’ at you When you know for sure that your friend is being taken for a ride but you don’t let them know, the voices in your head will not leave you in peace. Our conscience which is engineered to tell us when something is right or wrong does not consider other factors such as how your friend will react when you tell them the truth. Knowing that your friend is only wasting time with their current love insterest will only add to the guilt, so when it comes to this point, tell them and get it over with already. We may not guarantee that you will remain friends but we know that a friend in need is a friend in deed, do good, save your friend from a dysfunctional relationship. They will thank you later.
My teacher is beiNg iNappropriate
I am in secondary school currently in Form Three. My chemistry teacher is being very inappropriate with me. He likes calling me to the staffroom during night preps for no apparent reason. He would then put his hands on my arm or try to touch my skirt. I have warned him on many different occasions but he does not seem to stop. I now don’t go when he sends someone to call me and I have now changed to taking my preps in a different class in case he came to my class to get me. I raised the issue with my class teacher but she did not take it seriously. I am so stressed and can not concentrate on my studies. What should I do? Distressed Student
Dear Distressed Student,
I am sorry about what you are going through. It is good that you have raised it with the class teacher. I think it is time you escalated the matter further by involving your parents. Your parents will be better placed at taking up the issue with the school administration and keep tabs on their progress. There are so many cases
of teachers abusing their power and it would be good if you talked to your mum or dad about it. Don’t forget to mention you had talked to your class teacher about it. Hopefully the matter will be resolved and you will be able to concentrate on your studies. Remember as a minor no one has any right to violate your privacy. Good luck. DR X.
Send your agonising queries to drx@x-news.co.ke
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ACCESS TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2015
FASHIONScoop
Njema HeleNa’s cOllectiON.
The print on the dress is enough to make it a must have.
Who knew pink and yellow can be a perfect match?
Evening party ready in this stunning dress.
This is one of those that is perfect for any occasion.
WORK BY DAY, PLAY BY NIGHT N
jema Helena’s new collection is dubbed “Palm Beach”. She is featuring skirts, trousers, shorts and dresses. She has departed from her last collection monochromic style to incorporate a lot of colour. “We wanted this collection to be bright and colourful,” Cecilia Ostman, the head designer told X
Our rating: H H
filmlab Rating: R Genre: Horror cast: Lance Henriksen, Jason Cook, Valerie Azlynn time: 1hr 35 mins
DARK AWAKeNING
BEST... It falls short of its horror status. Definitely not so much to write home about. A family moves in to a house in a small town. They are looking forward to settling in and getting acquainted with the town. Things change when they start noticing the house has scary apparitions.
Access, “we looked for fabrics that are fun and joyful so we chose yellow, hot pink and turquoise.” They used mainly the kitenge for the collection choosing one which was bright and shiny for that perfect finish. The outfits are perfect for day or night wear.
Rating: PG 13 Genre: Action and Adventure cast: Chris Pratt, Bryce Dallas, Irrfan Khan time: 2hrs 3mins
JuRAssIc WORLD A good thriller that has better visuals than the original keeping the viewer glued. A park has been in operation for 10 years. The visitor rates have gone down. In order to create buzz, a new attraction is added to Our rating: H H H H
draw in more visitors. This new attraction backfires horribly leaving destruction in its wake. Mind blowing, chair gripping experience and a beautiful show from the main characters.
Straight from work to a cocktail party.
Rating: R Genre: Comedy, Drama cast: Mark Ruffalo, Zoe Saldana, Wallace Wolodarsky time: 1hr 30 mins
INfINITeLY POLAR BeAR The film is definitely worth a watch. The characters bring to life issues surrounding people living with Bipolar disorder. A man is separated from his family because of his bipolar disorder. He is currently living in a halfway house and is determined
to create a relationship with his daughters and win his wife back. An opportunity comes when his wife decides to go back to school. He now has to move in and take care of his daughters on a full time basis. Our rating: H H
PLAY 11 TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2015
DAILYHOROSCOPES CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan19 You probably anticipate but have only a vague notion of what’s just over the horizon. You may have a strong desire to rise high so you can see farther. In fact, you probably think that any place is better than your current spot. Have confidence in your future. It looks extremely bright. AQUARIUS Jan 20 - Feb 18 Let your heart be the reassuring force in your life today if difficult emotional issues come to the surface, Aquarius. Your feelings are apt to be at a climactic point in your month. Your general sensitivity toward the world is heightened. PISCES Feb 19 - Mar 20 Be open and communicative about your feelings today, Pisces. Most people find it easy to share facts or concrete information. The challenge is to share something from your heart. Don’t think that feelings always need to be kept secret. Just the opposite is true.
WEATHERFORECAST TUESDAY 16/06/2015
SUNNY
22
WEDNESDAY 17/06/2015
MoRE SUN THAN cLoUDS
22
24ºc 65%
6:32 AM 6:35PM
23ºc 69%
6:32 AM 6:35 PM
SuDOku
TAURUS Apr 20 - May 20 When it comes to issues of love and romance, you’re likely to be in a tough situation, Taurus. The problem is that it may seem like there’s an element of detachment developing. Your partner may be moving away from you instead of toward you. GEMINI May 21 - Jun 21 Your self-confidence will get you out of any sort of pickle you might be in today, Gemini. Try not to get too emotional about any issue. Make sure that you keep things light and energetic. If you seem to be stuck in the mud, don’t just sit there calling for help. CANCER Jun 22 - Jul 21 Try not to get too worked up over other people’s actions that don’t concern you, Cancer. Recent events may have triggered responses from others that now have a serious effect on you. Take some time to really think about what part you wish to play in this drama.
VIRGO Aug 23- Sep 22 As much as you try to explain things, Virgo, others simply aren’t going to see them with your same intensity and do-or-die urgency. Be careful that you don’t contrive a series of far-out stories that only partially reflect the truth.
MuSTREAD The Good Doctor — by Damon Galgut
LIBRA Sep 23 - Oct 22 Join with those who share similar dreams and make a plan for accomplishing whatever you choose. The more creative you can be with your planning, data collecting, and execution, the better off you will be. The white-hot fire within you is ready to blaze.
Laurence waters arrives at his new post at a deserted rural hospital in South Africa. The staff doctor, Frank Eloff is instantly wary of him. He does not feel the charm and vibe that Laurence has brought with him. Laurence is the opposite of Frank, he is jovial, optimistic and full of big ideas. The locals take to Laurence quickly and soon abandon Frank and his moodiness. At a staff party Frank tries to mend fences with people he wronged. A few bottles of alcohol later and things are ok. That is until the next morning when Frank discovers hospital equipment in a colleague’s room.
SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21 The maturity level of the conversation is apt to drop significantly if you insist on talking about others like they’re soap opera characters. Build your self-confidence so you’re comfortable and you don’t need to use other people’s lives as topics of discussion. SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 - Dec 21 Your enthusiasm is contagious, Sagittarius, and you should do what you can to share this feeling with others. In matters of the heart, have confidence that you know exactly where you stand. You also have the map of the surrounding area and beyond.
INSTAMOMENTS 1
3
2
4
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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 Your presence has a powerful impact on other people. Don’t take it lightly. People may hang on your words like they’re listening to the queen address to her kingdom. Make sure the content of your speech reflects the gravity of the situation. Make every word count.
LEO Jul 23- Aug 22 Emotionally, you should feel good today, Leo, so don’t let this confidence go to waste. Do things with your sweetheart and turn the dial up on romance. Your inner light is shining brightly, so know that you can use this to illuminate the path for others.
THURSDAY
Vote for winning pick of today’s top three instamoments (below) by sending an email with the picture number to: news@x-news.co.ke
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.
WiNNiNg cAPTioNS
1. Slumdog king chilling in his jacuzzi-Josephine Bonareri, Nairobi 2. One sign that you need to quit alcohol-Benjamin Kipkosgei, Nairobi 3. The morning after, wondering how you survived-Patience Muli, Nairobi
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TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2015
CROSSWORD Across 1. “It’s ___!” (speakeasy cry) 6. Least limber 14. “___ tell ya...” 15. Stood 17. ____ of bread 18. Exaggerate 19. It has north and south poles 21. “Take ____ it comes” 22. Simon Peter, for one 23. Pacific weather phenomenon 25. East Lansing sch. 26. “The Sweetest Taboo” singer 28. Free a car from a snowbank 29. Loser to DDE 30. Make numb 32. D.C.-based musical grp. 33. “____ a clue!” (phrase of the befuddled) 34. Singer McLean 37. Most secure 38. GM brand of the 90s 41. Like the smallest bands 43. Cartoonist Drake 45. Flub 46. “____ improved!” 47. Make a list, British style 49. Zest
50. Record weakeners of a sort 52. Destination in Somalia 55. Not struck 56. Balanced 57. Sawyer of morning TV 58. Like a blackboard 59. Braying beasts Down 1. Southeastern state 2. Health setback 3. Like Pepe Le Pew 4. Muslim leaders 5. Makes lean 6. Resembling a post? 7. Slithy critter 8. Ellington’s “____ a Song Go...” 9. Chemin de ___ (game) 10. Priests, for short 11. Picnicking 12. “The ___ Agent” (2003 film with Peter Dinklage) 13. Lockjaw 16. Explorer Hernando 20. Campaigner’s greeting 23. Toothless 24. Bits of fluff 27. Roof edges 31. Sorely lacking
33. “This ____ outrage!” 34. “She ___ wrong!” 35. Much-covered Marley tune 36. Yanni listener, perhaps 38. Eastern entertainers 39. Author Caldwell 40. Electra’s brother 42. “Hasta ___!” 44. “Il Postino” poet 48. Smaller versions 50. Give ____ story 51. Rabbi’s house of worship 53. Plains preceder 54. Ore. neighbor
Sunday’s answers
YOURSAY
Kenyans should up their game to curb insecurity Last weekend a Military base in Lamu was attacked by Al -Shabaab, which evidently shows that Kenya needs to be more alert when it comes to security issues. I am glad to say that the defence forces are doing great work, this are people who leaves their families to protect us from the enemies’ aggression.
The battle is however not yet won so we cant just start celebrating already. It’s every Kenyan’s responsibility to ensure that the terrorists are contained. We should spy on any sympathizers and inform the necessary authorities. With devotion and cooperation, we will win the war against terrorism. — Beatrice Amanda, Kangemi
Stars can do even better For the first time in many years, Harambee Stars played a tactful game against Congo Brazzaville. They managed to nick a point, which is a laudable result but this is not enough. Coach Bobby Williamson and his men should swiftly move on from the celebrations following a 1-1 away. Rather they should now em-
bark on putting together strategies that will see them through the remaining qualifying fixtures for the 2017 AFCON showpiece in Gabon. Congo Brazzaville has been in the AFCON for quite some time and that makes them a comparatively good side. — Enock N, Nairobi
Politics aside, what’s in the budget for Kenyans?
While political polarization has been the focus of the Budget process in the country, what Kenyan families want to know is how this will affect their everyday lives. The only thing millions of Kenyans out here know about the Budget is the day it is being read. The government never educates the masses on how their lives are affected by the Budgets. In a sense, that’s how the government dupes us. — Annoyed Taxpayer, Karen
MP’s should put aside personal differences Just last week, the national assembly rejected a presidential appointee, Monica Juma as Secretary to the Cabinet. This incident has at large raised a lot of questions and has become a subject of discussion in a number of forums. Although the MP’s had based their arguments on the letter she had written early, their rejection bid is in more ways than one flimsy and one would be forgiven for seeing that as
malice. It is that time our high profiled National Assembly placed their differences aside and thought of the common Kenyan. Just because she is a strict and barred them from bending the rules should in fact be a point of contention. It actually makes her credible. —Joan Matheri, Ruaka
It’s not radicalisation, but secularised religion that bleeds Kenya There is a certain characteristic innate in the mind, which enables a person in the age of reasoning ability to make judgment as to the rightness or wrongness of any course of action. At certain point this universal conscience stops being natural as it is and becomes contingent upon what one is taught to be right or wrong. Quite often it is natured by one’s belief system-religion. Therefore, the right I do may be wrong or the wrong I do may be right according to what I have been taught at any given learning environment. Religion (ligare) from etymological observation simple means “to bind back”. This bond is the feeling of being obligated to live; move or act to specific laws and it varies from one learning point to another. If I teach my children at home that killing one another is wrong, that to them is religion. If a religious sect teaches its adherents that killing is right, it is because they have created a secular god in their own image and desire contrary to man’s moral instinct. These gods allow them to establish their own laws and government and condones their diabolical philosophies of life, where atrocities are committed against humanity in the name of religion. Let us review our religious beliefs once again and ascertain where it antagonises with our natural conscience. — Phabian Paul Jr, Nairobi
Send your letters to news@x-news.co.ke | Letters will be edited for summary and clarity
SPORT 13 TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2015
KCB boost squad with four arrivals Kenya Commercial bank KCB, have completed the singing of three new players, having already bagged former Yanga hit man George Banda. The Bankers have completed moves for Ellie Asieche, Luke Ochieng’ and Athman Buki, each signing a six month deal. They promise to have a busy June transfer window. Asieche joins as a free agent after his contract with
Sofapaka run out at the start of this month while Buki and Ochieng have joined the Bankers on a loan deal, pending the expiry of their contracts with Tusker and in search of play time. Another player expected to join Rishadi Shedu’s side is their former midfielder Victor Ochieng who currently plays for FKF Premier League side Posta Rangers. Just like last season, KCB
had a poor start to the league, managing only three wins against Tusker FC, Muhoroni Youth and Nakuru AllStars to end the first half of the season with only 13 points. Shedu, who will still be at the helm of the technical bench, will be hoping that his new signing and established players at the club will produce a better performance in the second leg.
NEW ARRIVAL: George Banda (right) during while turning out for Yanga. The hitman joined KCB.
Toure AirTel fAce of AfricA Ivory Coast captain and Manchester City star midfielder, Yaya Toure has been announced by Bharti Airtel Africa on Monday as the new African face for its upcoming continental campaign. Airtel’s partnership with the 2015 Afcon winning captain will launch the brand’s “It’s Now” campaign which seeks to nurture and grow talent in Africa through various consumer touch points such as sports, lifestyle and music while providing customers with access
to connectivity and technological solutions that will enable them explore opportunities . “Throughout my career I have been fortunate to have a great deal of success on the field. However, I know that the strongest performances come only when you commit 100 percent to the task at hand and display the strength and mettle to give it your all. “It’s Now” is a campaign that is close to my heart as it calls on Africans to embrace the opportunities around
them to better their lives. I am glad to be working with Airtel, with its wide reach within Africa, in order to inspire many people,” Toure said “We are excited to be signing the pact with Mr. Touré who is respected in Africa and beyond. As the first player to win African Player of the Year four consecutive times, Touré is an inspiration to everyone working to achieve their potential and striving to be their best every day,” Airtel Africa Chief Executive Officer, Christian de Faria added.
Blatter could try to keep his job Sepp Blatter could be open to the possibility of standing for re-election as Fifa president. The 79-year-old said he was standing down as the head of world football’s governing body less than two weeks ago, just four days into his fifth term. A new president was expected to be elected, probably in mid-December. However, the Swiss could make an audacious bid to stay on if no suitable alternative candidate emerges. “Everything is open,” said the source close to Blatter. Blatter will hold meetings over the coming days when he will gauge whether he still retains enough support to seek an astonishing sixth term as president.
The partnership will see Touré support Airtel’s corporate social responsibility particularly in youth empowerment for development. The 32-year-old midfielder then insisted he will definitely be staying at City, even going as far to suggest he could sign an extension to his current contract, which ends in 2017 following intense speculation over his future. Inter Milan boss, Roberto Mancini who brought Toure to City in 2010 before being sacked by the club
in 2013 has not given up hope of persuading him to cross over to the Italian giants. The duo had several fruitful seasons together at City, winning the FA Cup and qualifying for the Champions League for the first time in 2011, before winning the Premier League in 2012. Having entered the African market in 2010, Airtel Africa has steadily increased its customer base in Africa to reach over 70 million people.
Valdes can replace De Gea
CRAFTY MAN: Sepp Blatter could be open to the possibility of standing for re-election as Fifa president.
Fifa has officially referred inquiries over Blatter’s intentions to his resignation speech on 2 July, in which he promised to start work on new reforms and said “I shall not be a candidate” in the next election. However, in 2011 Blatter also claimed his fourth term would be his last, only to renege on the pledge. It is now possible he could attempt a similar, but even more controversial U-turn.
Any attempt by Blatter to cling to power will be met with fierce opposition in the wake of the FBI-led corruption investigation that has plunged Fifa into turmoil and seen the arrest of several senior football officials. Many critics have demanded that Blatter steps down immediately, rather than wait until an extraordinary meeting of the Fifa Congress in the winter.
Victor Valdes is a ready-made replacement should David De Gea leave Manchester United, according to former goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar. De Gea, 24, has one year remaining on his contract at Old Trafford and has been linked with a move to Real Madrid. Van der Sar was replaced by De Gea – signed for £18.9m- when he retired from football in 2011. “Maybe they have the solution already in-house in Victor Valdes,” said Van der Sar, 44. Manchester United allowed Valdes to train with the club as he recovered from a serious knee injury before signed him on a free transfer in January.Since then he has acted as back-up to De Gea, making two appearances. Having been given his Barcelona debut by current United manager Louis van Gaal in 2002, the Spaniard enjoyed a trophyfilled 12 years at the Nou Camp, winning the Champions League three times as well as six La Liga titles. Former Ajax, Juventus and Fulham keeper Van der Sar, who played over 250 games for United from 2005-2011, says a suitable replacement should fit the club’s
style of play. “It depends whether they are looking for someone with reaction saves or someone who is commanding and a more outfield type of player,” he said at a Legends event at Old Trafford. “If your team plays further away from goal and you have a goalkeeper who likes to protect his six-yard box, then the match will not be there. “Barcelona played a lot away from their goal and that is something Van Gaal finds important. Valdes has a lot of experience and a great pedigree.” Born in the Spanish capital, De Gea came through the academy at Atletico Madrid, where he won the Europa League, before being brought to England by thenmanager Sir Alex Ferguson. He could now make the move to city rivals Real. Van der Sar, who won four Premier League titles and one Champions League at Old Trafford, added: “If you name some big clubs in the world, United and Real Madrid are in the top five. To choose between those is great. “He will be a great loss for United if he leaves but the club has to move on and find a successor.”
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SPORT TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2015
BEATEN: Kenya’s Julius Yego in a previous competition. Yego settled for second position in Sunday’s IAAF World Challenge meeting in Rabat, Morocco.
Abdelrahman floors Yego in Rabat meet
‘YouTube Man’ falls to Egyptian in javelin throw Kenya’s Julius Yego settled for second position
80.12m in the first round before improving to
Rabat, Morocco. Much had been expected of Kenyan javelin thrower Julius Yego after his recent worldleading throw of 91.39m in Birmingham, moving him to ninth on the world all-time list. But he was left chasing the man who preceded him as African record-holder, Ihab Abdelrahman, for the whole competition. Abdelrahman opened with 81.44m and then extended his lead in the third round with a meeting record of 85.44m. Yego improved with each effort, throwing
enough to catch the Egyptian. Yego, who plans to embark on more training in Kenya, said he is satisfied for his throw in Rabat but believes he can do better. “Second place and 83.99m is a good results, I appreciate all the Almighty God has enabled me to achieve, all I need to do is more training a as I wait for World Championships in China,” said the commonwealth Champion who also plans to return to IAAF Diamond League action in Lausanne on 9 July.
CATCH ME IF YOU CAN: : Kenya’s Ezekiel Kemboi finishes first in the 3000m steeple chase at the fourth Diamond in Sunday’s IAAF World Challenge meeting in 82.78m, 83.60m and then 83.99m, but it wasn’t League meeting in Eugene, Oregon on Saturday.
KEnya thrash Portugal in tEst Clash to CliMb world ranKings
England will still attack, says Captain Morgan Captain Eoin Morgan says England will continue with their new positive approach to one-day cricket despite a three-wicket defeat by New Zealand. The hosts were bowled out for 303 in 45.2 overs before the Kiwis chased the target to take a 2-1 series lead. “We could have batted 50 overs, got 250 and I would have been very furious,” Morgan said. “I was happy we scored 300 in the manner that we did and want to continue playing with that attacking mindset.” After a dismal World Cup,England’s new-found aggressive style has seen them make their highest ever limited-overs score in the first ODI against the Black Caps and almost pull off a remarkable run-chase in the second. However, a collapse of five wickets for 14 runs saw them fall short of an imposing target in the third match in Southampton, as New Zealand got home with an over to spare thanks to centuries from Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor. “There’s a bigger picture here, we’ve a lot of young guys,” said 28-year-old Morgan, who made 71. “Because we’re changing the mindset, it will take longer than one series to do so. “We’ll maintain that through this series and the rest of the summer. We’re competing and we’ve won one game so far, which is a big bonus for us.” Williamson and Taylor compiled a third-wicket stand of 206, the largest partnership for New Zealand in an ODI against England, taking advantage of three dropped catches.
Ford rEturns to lE Mans in 2016
NEW ARRIVALS: The new Ford GT race car is based on the production Ford GT and will compete in the LM GTE Pro class of WEC and in GTLM in the TUDOR USCC.
Ford announced today it is returning to one of the most prestigious automobile races in the world with its new Ford GT race car, based on the all-new ultra-high-performance supercar that goes on sale next year. The Ford GT race car will compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans – referred to by many as the Grand Prix of Endurance and Efficiency – starting next year. Revealed today at the famous circuit in Le Mans, France, Ford GT will compete in the Le Mans GT Endurance class for professional teams and drivers (LM GTE Pro). The new race car – a further proof point of Ford innovation – is based on the all-new Ford GT supercar unveiled in January. Both the production car and race car will arrive in 2016 to mark the 50th anniversary of Ford GT race
cars placing 1-2-3 at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans. Ford went on to repeat its victory at Le Mans in 1967, 1968 and 1969. “When the GT40 competed at Le Mans in the 1960s, Henry Ford II sought to prove Ford could beat endurance racing’s most legendary manufacturers,” said Bill Ford, executive chairman, Ford Motor Company. “We are still extremely proud of having won this iconic race four times in a row, and that same spirit that drove the innovation behind the first Ford GT still drives us today.” The new Ford GT race car will run the full 2016 schedules of the FIA World Endurance Championship and TUDOR United SportsCar Championship, making its competition debut in January 2016 in the Rolex 24 At Daytona, Florida.
Canada through to second round of 2015 World Cup Hosts Canada reached the second round of the Women’s World Cup by finishing top of Group A despite drawing 1-1 with the Netherlands. Coached by Englishman John Herdman, Canada went ahead when Ashley Lawrence scored early on.But Kirsten van de Ven struck a vital equaliser with five minutes left. China drew 2-2 with New Zealand to finish second, but the Dutch are likely to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams. The top two from each group go through but with four of the six groups seeing
a third-placed team progress, the Netherlands have four points and should advance. The late leveller meant the game ended in subdued fashion from the hosts’ point of view and despite finishing top of the group they could still face a tricky second round tie against a team from the group of death, featuring the United States, Sweden, Australia or Nigeria. But a crowd of 45,420 was in fine voice in the covered stadium that held the 1976 Montreal Olympics as Canada reached the knockout stages for the first time since 2003.
Their progression will be a relief for tournament organisers with some stadiums struggling to fill up during the group stages. The Netherlands, making their World Cup debut, could have equalised in the first half when Danielle van de Donk missed a great chance from a right-wing cross. But they were thankful to substitute Van de Ven’s late goal, which should see them extend their stay in Canada. Herdman’s former team, New Zealand, exited the tournament.
GRASS DUEL: Danielle Van De Donk #10 of the Netherlands takes down Allysha Chapman #15 of Canada during the 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup Group A match at Olympic Stadium on June 15, 2015 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
AustriA tAke silver in synchronised swimming Austria won a silver medal in the synchronised swimming at the European Games in Baku, four days after three members of the squad were hit by a bus. Twins Anna-Maria and Eirini-Marina Alexandri, 17, were second in the duets competition behind Russian duo Valeriya Filenkova and Daria Kulagina. Coach Albena Mladenova said the duo had “put a smile back after some bad days”. Vanessa Sahinovic - one of the three 15-year-olds hit by the bus - was put in an induced coma after surgery. She had a 10-hour operation in Vienna after being flown from Azerbaijan. Azerbaijani authorities arrested the bus driver after the incident in the athletes’ village. Austria pulled out of the team event after Thursday’s crash, in which Sahinovic, Luna Pajer and Verena Breit were injured. “We are proud of what we’ve done - it has been very difficult but we have had very big support from our Olympic committee and Austria,” said Eirini-Maria Alexandri.
ALL SYNCED: Anna-Maria, left, and Eirini-Marina Alexandri of Austria celebrate their second place at the final of synchronised swimming, duets event at the 2015.
xnews | tuesday, June 16 , 2015 | www.x-news.co.ke
YEGO FALLS SECOND TO EGYPT’S ABDELRAHMAN IN JAVELIN THROW p14
K
enya volleyball queens christened Malkia Strikers are yet to drop a set in the ongoing 17th edition of the African Women Volleyball Championship in Nairobi. On Monday evening, Botswana became the latest victim falling 0-3 (25-19, 25-12, 25-18) to the holders who had already reached the semi-finals following perfect wins from tier first two games. The eight-time winners will face Pool B’s second placed Cameroon in the semi-finals on Thursday with a 100 percent record. Earlier on Kenya defeated Mauritius 3-0 (25-12, 25-13, 25-17) before passing the biggest test of the championship so far when they whitewashed Algeria in the same manner (25-20, 25-22, 25-29). Coach David Lunga’ho said the final Pool match was a formality as his side had already reached the last four, but was nevertheless happy to test a number of players. “There is good rotation in the squad with all players responding very well. I am happy to have tried all my players and therefore I know the strongest combination,” he said. “The target is to win the championships and qualify for Japan,” said the coach.
MARCHING ON: Kenya volleyball queens christened Malkia Strikers are on track to win a record 9th title in ongoing 17th edition of the African Women Volleyball Championship at the Kasarani indoor Arena.
Queens edge closer to queendom
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