201507030 xnews

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2015 | www.x-news.co.ke

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MPS TO SUMMON CABINET SECRETARIES IN NEW GRAFT ALLEGATIONS

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY’S PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN NICHOLAS GUMBO SAYS THEY WILL SEEK TO UNEARTH THE TRUTH BEHIND ‘DISTURBING’ REPORT BY THE AUDITOR GENERAL

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NEWS

Lionesses pooled in tough World Rugby Series qualifiers group

Arsenal confirm Szczesny loan move to serie-a side as Roma

Kenya Airways posts record Sh26bn loss I

nvestors are angry after Kenya Airways reported a record Sh25.7 billion loss after tax.

Kenya Airways chief executive officer Mbuvi Ngunze attributed the loss to competition from Middle East carriers and high operating costs.

He also blamed travel advisories and runway closures for renovation, which he said have eaten into the company’s 2014/2015 full-year earnings.

“We have had turbulent times and this loss is obviously significant. It is, however, important to know that we have

made significant investments at a time when the industry generally was going through hard times,” he said.

The loss represents a 661 percent decline from last year’s Sh3.3 billion loss.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

P.7

Shisha smoking Is it time the goverment considered placing a ban on the pipe?

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Grounding: A Kenya Airways plane at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and (inset) KQ Chief Executive Offiocer Mbuvi Ngunze. The airline has reported a record Sh25.7 billion loss in the 2014/2015 financial year.

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Corporate grind Production Associate shares secrets to her success

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NEWS THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2015

MPs to summon ministers in new graft allegations The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the Nationally Assembly will issue summonses to all Cabinet Secretaries and the Principal Secretaries of the ministries adversely mentioned in new graft claims by the Auditor General.

PAC chairman Nicholas Gumbo said his committee will seek to unearth the truth in all the areas where Mr Ouko has raised queries.

“Obviously where there is loss of public money, you can count on the full support from this committee. We will engage with those mentioned and if found culpable we will recommend deterrent measures,” Gumbo said.

His remarks came barely hours after the Auditor General asked MPs to begin their probe on the billions of shillings which cannot be accounted for in government ministries and state corporations.

“I have only done my work as the Auditor General and pointed out where there are anomalies in the public expenditure, PAC should now come in and ask the hard questions to the individuals of the mentioned ministries,” Ouko said at the Sarova Whitesands Beach Hotel in Mombasa on the sidelines of an information system

and control association conference.

Only 26 percent of money spent and collected by the government has been fully approved in an audit for 20132014. And Mr Ouko whose report covered an annual budget of about Sh1.6 trillion said there were “disturbing problems” in government’s accounting.

“I reported what I did not see because in every expenditure made by any public office it should be accompanied by a receipt this was however not the case in some areas,” Ouko said. Ouko told those whose ministries are mentioned not to blame him for doing his work saying he is just a messenger and should not be stoned.

“Let people deal with the message-the missing cash and not me as an individual,” he added.

His revelations come just days after US President Barack Obama warned on his visit to Kenya that “the cancer of corruption” was holding the country back.

Kenya is ranked amongst the world’s most corrupt countries.

It came 145 out of 174 nations on the Transparency International’s global corruption perceptions index.

But the accounts are better

than they were the year before, when the auditor-general said that only 12 percent of them were “true and fair”.

Among the numerous items being questioned are empty office spaces paid by the police and 32 faulty armoured vehicles for the military.

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Karanja Kibichio has already dismissed the Auditor General’s report saying he was not given a chance to explain where sh2bilion the ministry is accused of not accounting for.

“I am the accounting officer at the ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Auditor General never contacted me for any response” Kibichio said.

Kibichio maintained that no money was swindled in the ministry and if given opportunity he will explain where every coin is.

“I was surprised to see the report in the media accusing the ministry of foreign affairs for not accounting for Sh2 billion. I think it is unprofessional for the Auditor General to publish the report without the response from the ministry,” Kibichio said.

Health Cabinet Secretary James Macharia whose Ministry is also accused of spending up to Sh24 billion without Parliament’s approval has rubbished the Auditor’s

F I G H T I N G GRAFT: Auditor General Edward Ouko (above) and Foreign Affairs PS Karanja Kibicho (right). Dr Kibicho who is the accounting officer of his ministry has vowed to account for all the money that was allocated to his ministry following new revelations of graft in government ministries by the auditor general.

report terming it as baseless.

“Those of you who know the budgets and figures of ministries know that Sh26 billion for the Ministry of Health cannot be true. I want to ask my good friend Edward

Ouko to please ensure the statements he carries are credible,” he said.

Transparency International Executive Director for Kenya Samuel Kimeu in reaction to the Auditor General’s report

accused parliament of failing in its oversight role.

“The financial anomalies we are witnessing in government agencies is due to failure by parliament to play its role,” he said.

Kenya Airways loses Sh26 billion in worst ever recorded fiscal year From Page 1 And Mr Ngunze says they are working harder and smarter to contain costs, by reviewing contracts and sourcing better.

Ngunze said the profit margins in emerging markets have been slim but present. He added that load factors have increased even though seat capacity has been wanting.

According to Mr Ngunze, Sh14 billion of the loss came from one-offs. He explained that KQ had to pay off debt owed to Boeing for 787s as replacements for 767s.

“We sold a few of the 777 planes and this caused an impairment in the accounts,” he said.

The airline further says that it spent Sh36 billion as opposed to Sh39 billion the previous year on fuel costs.

“If we report in Kenya Shillings we made more, but because of the volatility

of the exchange rate, yields are affected.

Intense competition from Middle East carriers, fuel price volatility and travel advisories have been challenges,” he stated.

But the shareholders have expressed their anger at the revelations and now calling for the company to be taken off the stock market.

Businessman Dr Chris Kirubi says it should now be left only to the key stakeholders.

“Investors need to finance the business more, not for KQ to keep borrowing.

This is bullsh**!” he remarked.

The Airline, however states that it has made an increase of 4 percent from 3.7 million to 4.1 million passengers in the year with its re-entry into West Africa, the revision of some travel advisories and the region attracting a lot of FDI becoming great opportunities.

Jambo jet as a domestic carrier has had remarkable growth and carried over 500,000 passengers in its first year.

“We have a new fleet and a new airport and this will improve our ability to chase more passengers. As KQ we have increased our seat capacity to 7340 seats. We also have the youngest fleet in Africa,” he added.

Ngunze said the airline has set out plans to revive its business with Afrexim Bank expected to refinance the business and raise long-term capital.

Last year the loss totaled 3.77 billion shillings in the six months through March, compared to 3.08 billion shillings in the same period a year earlier. For the full-year, the loss was 3.38 billion shillings, compared with 7.86 billion shillings in 2012, the company said in a statement.

Sonko sues Kidero over drug remarks Nairobi Senator Mike Sonko is suing Governor Evans Kidero for defamation, accusing him with linkage to drug trafficking.

The defamation suit was filed at the Milimani Law courts and was to be placed before the civil division court for directions today.

Sonko had initially given Kidero seven days to apologise over statements he made at a public gathering last month.

Sonko claims the governor accused him of being a drug dealer. In his suit papers, he says the governor engaged in a smear campaign against him by issuing defamatory statements, which he consider to be scandalous and malicious. The senator through his lawyer Danson Mungatana, says his charitable organisation has started incurring huge loses as some of contracts for provision of services to the poor have been cancelled.

Mungatana will be seeking a court injunction barring Kidero from making similar statements. Kidero without

mentioning names had sensationally claimed that Nairobi was the centre of drug trafficking adding that certain people had been named as having been involved in drug trafficking but no action had been taken against them.

“Where drug cartels fight, they tend to get into positions of authority. This happened in Jamaica, Cuba and even in Colombia.

Any services given must be given within the confines and provisions of the law,” Kidero said. It is this statement that the senator believes was aimed at him, especially for operating a rescue service dubbed ‘Sonko rescue team’ consisting of ambulances and hearses saying he was using the vehicles to transport and supply the drugs to city dwellers.

Sonko claims Kidero has through this disparaged his reputation and caused him to be shunned by friends.

Governor Kidero is said to have uttered the defamatory statements while addressing a public gathering in Mathare, Nairobi on June 22.

More on this story at www.capitalfm.co.ke

Nairobi Senator Mike Sonko. He has sued Governor Kidero for allegedly linking him to drug peddling.

KDF Kill 3 in FaileD Shabaab attacK Kenyan troops on Wednesday killed three Al Shabaab militants when they came under attack at Basuba area in Lamu County.

They were attacked with an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) when they were on routine patrol duties. During the attack, the troops repulsed the Al Shabaab militiamen killing three of them, while others escaped with multiple bullet wounds,” Military Spokesman Col David Obonyo said in a statement, adding that five KDF soldiers had been injured.

He said they also recovered two AK-47 rifles and 17 rounds of ammunition.

Kenyan forces have intensified security patrols

at strategic places across the country, mainly on the border points and areas like Mombasa and Nairobi which are al-Shabaab targets.

The fight against the militant group was one of the main anchors of talks between US President Barack Obama and Uhuru Kenyatta during the former’s visit in the country last weekend.

Addressing a joint press conference with President Uhuru Kenyatta at State House Nairobi,Obama stated that his government would dully support Kenyan government in its fight against terrorism.

“We will help Kenya win this war at all cost and in every way we can,”

Obama said at State House, Nairobi. This comes as the US Government has already given the Kenya Defence Force Sh9.5 billion as part of its support to help fight Al-Shabaab.

The money will be used to buy equipment, train soldiers and support the Kenya military in Somalia and the fight against AlShabaab.

Part of the amount (Sh5.9billion) will also go to AMISOM of which Kenya is a part.

The military has said that part of the money would also be used to buy drones and unmanned aerial systems for spying on land and sea. The Kenyan Ranger Regiment will get sh2.52 billion to support its activities.

NEWS 3 THURSDAY JULY 30, 2015

MINISTRY OFof AGRICULTURE Ministry Agriculture, LIVESTOCK AND FISHERIES livestock And fisheries.

REPUBLIC OF KENYA

stAte depArtMent of Agriculture

KENYA CEREAL ENHANCEMENT PROGRAMME – CLIMATE RESILIENT AGRICULTURAL LIVELIHOODS WINDOW (KCEP – CRAL) Senior Programme Coordinator – Nairobi Ref: SPC 17 Terms of Reference for Senior Programme Coordinator Reporting directly to the Programme Steering Committee (PSC) chaired by the Principal Secretary (PS), State Department of Agriculture, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries (MOALF), the Senior Programme Coordinator will be responsible for the overall management and coordination of the dayto-day operations of the KCEP-CRAL Programme Coordinating Unit (PCU), and all the related activities including the provision of strategic guidance and day-to-day implementation. S/he will be the ex-officio member of the Programme Steering Committee (PSC). He or she will directly supervise the work of all the senior officers working within the PCU and take personal responsibility for the overall performance of the Programme as well as ensure accurate and complete reporting and dissemination of all the financial and technical reports in a timely fashion.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: a) Provide effective leadership to the PCU; b) Take overall responsibility for the preparation of the Annual Work Plan and Budget (AWPB) and associated Procurement Plan and their submission for approval to the PSC and IFAD; c) Ensure the effective utilization of programme funds and other resources according to the AWPB and procurement Plan through supervision and monitoring: d) Ensure that progress, audit and other reports are produced and submitted to the appropriate parties on a timely basis, including the semi-annual progress and performance reports indicating the achievement of work plans targets and expenditures made to achieve those results. Take the lead role in preparing and implementing the Programme Strategies for Knowledge Management, Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) Strategy and Action Plan and Anti-Corruption measures; e) Ensure the timely dissemination of programme experience and results to relevant stakeholders within the learning community; f) Ensure adequate liaison and networking with stakeholders and partners such as relevant government donor agencies where relevant, potential or active implementing partners including bench marking with other relevant programmes; g) Undertake annual performance evaluations of all PCU professional/ technical staff and communicate the results of such evaluations to the staff member concerned as well as, incorporating any response from the person in question, submitting these reports to the PSC and IFAD; h) Bring to the attention of the Government of Kenya and IFAD any cases where evidence emerges of misuse of funds or of authority on the part of PCU staff, and take immediate steps to investigate such matters; i) Represent the programme at relevant functions and meetings; j) Implement the decisions of the PSC; k) Undertake programme completion and financing closing activities when due; and l) Perform any other duties relevant to the programme as they are agreed by the GOK and IFAD. QUALIFICATONS a) Master’s degree or higher in an area of direct relevance to the Programme (e.g rural development, agriculture, economics, strategic management) b) At least 10 years of management experience in the application of sustainable rural and agricultural development, market demand driven agricultural production, sustainable rural finance, with at least 5 years in senior management positions involving supervision and evaluation of middle and junior management staff and professionals, financial management and daily administration. c) Demonstrated knowledge and experience in rural climate change adaption. d) Demonstrated experience in implementing successful programmes aimed at increasing the competitiveness and inclusiveness of value chains, including agricultural value chains. e) Demonstrated experiences in effective mainstreaming of disadvantaged groups into equitable access to opportunities of livelihood improvement. f) Demonstrated creativity, willingness to innovate, think systemically and design catalytic approaches to programme activities. g) Strong computer and communications skills (oral, written, presentational); and h) Strong interpersonal skills, with evidence of ability to productively interact and manage a complex team and interact with wide range and levels of organizations (government, private sector, NGOs, and research institutions).

APPLICATION PROCESS 1. Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for the above position. Female candidates are particularly encouraged to apply.

2. Each application should be accompanied by a CV and cover letter indicating the Reference Number for the position. The prescribed format of the CV should be downloaded from the Ministry’s Website: www.kilimo.go.ke/Resources.html 3. Photocopies of Identity Card and relevant certificates and credentials should be enclosed.

4. Each application in a sealed envelope should be addressed to: The Principal Secretary Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock & Fisheries State Department of Agriculture P. O. Box 30028-00100 NAIROBI 5. Hand delivered application can be submitted to the main registry, Kilimo House, 5th Floor.

The applications should be received not later than Monday 17th August, 2015 at 10.00 a.m. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

Canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification.

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NEWS

OBAMA VISIT

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2015

NEWS BRIEFS

CARTOONSPEAK

Somali border wall to stay: Nkaissery

41 per cent of Kenyans don’t need jobs, 18 per cent are suffering Forty-one per cent of Kenyans are self-employed. Eighteen per cent are unemployed, proving that selfmade entrepreneurs dominate the job market. One of the latest surveys by research group, Ipsos Synnovate has discovered that most of Kenya’s employable population relies on its own wit and creativity in order to get by.

In fact, these entrepreneurs only need the government to create a conducive environment for investment in order for them to run their

operations. Self-made individuals are actually responsible for a majority of the jobs the country creates every year. It has been revealed that only 11 per cent of workers, potential or otherwise, are employed in the private sector while 5 per cent are in the public sector. Ten per cent are peasant farmers, 7 per cent are casual labourers, another 5 per cent are students.

As little 2 per cent are retired and 1 per cent are uncertain about their status in the job market.

Gov’t warns warring communities on guns

peace driVe: dp williams ruto cocks an old ak-47 semi automatic gun in turkana. he toured the area where registration of firearms in to establish those holding them was carried out.

The government has again issued a warning to warring communities in the North-Rift to surrender illegal guns or face full wrath of the law.

Deputy President William Ruto, while on tour in the region told the warring communities to surrender all illegal guns they possess or face forced disarmament.

Ruto said the government was running out of patience by asking the communities to surrender the guns and embrace peaceful coexistence.

“It doesn’t mean that we will take away your guns, but our aim is only to ensure the safety of every individual is guaranteed,” said Ruto. Ruto said the persistence cattle rustling which has been the main cause of conflict among communities in the region has no place in country today and urged the locals to desist from engaging in it. During his tour in the region, 55 firearms were registered while

10 other firearms were voluntarily surrendered to police.

The Deputy President also called for the registration of all the firearms in the region for easy monitoring by the government’s security apparatus.

Ruto said the government wants to bring peace in the country, adding that insecurity has paralysed key activities such as education and trade.

He warned those chiefs who are lagging behind at their work citing that he has identified two of them who have been joining forces with bandits in incriminating acts.

“We are going to apprehend those involving themselves with criminals and they will be charged according to the law,” he quipped.

He however said that the National Youth Service will ensure that all the vandalised buildings will be repaired urging that those who are displaced should return back to their homes.

WHAT OTHERS SAID TODAY... raila turf leads in ids registration: CORD leader Raila Odinga’s political strongholds lead in new identity card registrations, with statistcis indicating 1.9 million Kenyans have acquired the document since the 2013 polls. Statistics from the National Registration Bureau indicate that Raila’s political bedrocks of Nyanza and Western have 304,965 and 285,582 new IDs, respectively. Cord strategists are keen to reverse President Uhuru Kenyatta’s ‘tyranny of numbers’ 2013 factor and turn the tables on the ruling Jubilee alliance. The South Rift, in Ceputy President William Ruto’s...

eacc conceedes slow pace in anti-gra-graft war: The anticorruption commission investigated a total of 315 corruption cases in the last financial year but only 26 ended up in court, according to a report presented to the National Assembly.

Another 76 cases are still under investigation and 44 files are under evidence analysis, says the report prepared by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission. Another eight cases are awaiting a decision by the Director of Public Prosecution on whether he will charge the suspects in...

state auditor’s expose trigers outrage,shock: National outrage greeted revelations of doubtful Sh67 billion expenditure by several Government departments outlined in a new report by Auditor General Edward Ouko.

The figure is twice the amount taxpayers lost in the infamous Goldenberg scandal; estimated to be Sh37.4 billion by the commission of inquiry into compensation paid to businessman Kamlesh Pattni in the 1990s for fictitious gold exports. Homa Bay Governor Cyprian Owiti (left) and County Secretary Isaiah...

The government will not rescind its decision to build a wall between Kenya and Somalia, Interior Cabinet Secretary Joseph Nkaissery has said. The minister told Parliament’s Administration and National Security Committee the wall will act as a deterrent to the Somali terror group-Al-shabaab that have been having a field day getting in the country at will to cause mayhem. “The wall will remain in place as long as there is instability in Somalia but once peace is restored, we will consider, in consultation with the Somali government to bring the wall down,” he said adding that it will also act as a deterrence to smuggling of contraband goods into the country through the Kakuma and Dadaab refugee camps.

Somalia to miss 2016 election deadline Somalia will miss a 2016 deadline to elect a president and parliament through a popular vote, the UN special envoy to the country has said. Nicholas Kay said the electoral commission had just been set up, making it difficult for elections to be organised by next year. “The security situation is very mixed and the formation of the federal member state and to review the constitution is taking longer than anticipated,” he said.

In 2012, members of parliament were chosen by elders and then those lawmakers chose Hassan Sheikh Mohamud as president.

Aircraft debris found, checked for MH370 ties Aircraft debris found, checked for MH370 ties Debris found in the western Indian Ocean on Wednesday appears to be part of a Boeing 777, the same model as Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 that disappeared in 2014, according to a source close to the investigation. The source said there is a unique element to the Boeing 777’s flaperon, a wing component, which Boeing observers believe they are seeing in photos. The debris was found Wednesday off the Coast of Reunion Island, a French department in the western Indian Ocean. It is being examined to determine whether it is connected to flight MH370, a member of the French air force in Reunion said.

xnews | THURsday, JULy 30, 2015 | www.x-news.co.ke

BIZ BRIEFS

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 102.4316 102.3450 102.5182 159.8853 159.7317 160.0389 113.2092 113.0944 113.3239 8.1571 8.1473 8.1668 32.4636 33.1648 33.3187 20.4527 20.3866 20.5188

KRA: No more manual tax filing after Aug 1 The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has stated it will not accept any more manual filing of tax returns come Saturday, August 1, 2015.

The authority says it will not accept manual filling for VAT, PAYE and Income Tax returns and all taxpayers are required to file their returns through KRA’s online portal, iTax. “All VAT, PAYE and Income Tax Filers are advised to file their tax returns due

in August 2015 in the iTax system since NO manual VAT, PAYE and Income Tax returns will be accepted with effect from 1st August 2015 at any KRA office,” a statement from the authority read.

In order to access online services, customers have been urged to update their details in the iTax system because the system allows taxpayers to file tax from anywhere anytime.

“The system allows taxpayers to update

their tax registration details, make payments and enquire about their tax status which is one of KRA’s key initiatives to provide an integrated view of a taxpayer,” the authority said.

The authority says it will continue sensitizing and training taxpayers in all regions adding that iTax centers have been set-up in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nyeri, Thika, Eldoret and Nakuru to offer the support needed.

According to KRA, more than two million taxpayers have registered through the platform due to its devolved support services to all Huduma Centers across the country and its partnership with 33 banks has facilitated faster payment of tax.

Taxpayers are advised to access iTax system through https://itax.kra.go.ke and file their returns online. A step by step guide has been provided on the KRA Website.

Equity Bank scores big as preferred funding channel for GES projects Regional and diversified business firms have favoured Equity bank with funding commitments for a number of developmental projects.

Following the just ended 6th Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) held in Kenya the bank emerged as a preferred partner due to its market positioning and profile as the entrepreneur’s financial institution.

Speaking during the signing of more than Sh 53.4 million, Equity CEO, Dr. James Mwangi, acknowledged the groups positioning as an end to end entrepreneurs hub and financial literacy proponent. ‘’Within its flagship banking subsidiaries, Equity Group Holdings counts more than 10Million account holders with more than 50% of its overall loan bookc omprising of MSME entrepreneurs,’’ he said.

At the end of GES, conference on

Sunday, Dr. Mwangi successfully managed to sign some Sh 20.378 million with the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), Sh 15.278 million with the African Development Bank (AfDB) Sh 10.185 million with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and Sh 7.638 million with the European Investment Bank.

Dr. Mwangi pledged to capitalize on Equity’s capacity to support entrepreneurial delivery capacity using its diversified subsidiaries across the region.

“Already, the Group has trained over 1.3 million women and youth in financial literacy through the Equity Group Foundation, in partnership with The MasterCard Foundation and support of International Labour Organization,” Dr. Mwangi said.

Mwangi said, the funds are available for onwards lending to entrepreneurs including

the industry Experts have cited the country’s recent billion-shilling deal with SkyPower a game changer set facelift the renewable energy sector.

A report from SunEdison, a global renewable energy company in the United States, has revealed that the country will become “a major hub for the development of solar power

youths and women enterprises perusing green energy, AgroProcessing, Retail and Wholesale, manufacturing among others.

“With the level of funding that we have managed to attract, we are humbled that global development partners recognize Equity Group Holdings mission and we very excited that we shall manage to keep the GES fire and spirit up,” said Dr. Mwangi.

“Our ultimate objective is to break the poverty cycle by funding entrepreneurial ideas and opportunities that accelerate job and wealth creation for our youth and women,” He added.

Due to banking subsidiaries in Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan and Tanzania, this played a major role to the group to scoop a lion’s share because it has been actively supporting SME across the region.

EQUITY BANK BOSS: Dr James Mwangi. He signed financial agreements with various firms making Equity a trusted financial partner for projects.

Renewable energy sector gets boost from SkyPower

in Africa” following the landmark agreement.

The deal, a partnership between the Ministry of Energy and SkyPower, states that more than 1 Gigawatt (GW) of new solar energy projects will be constructed over the next five years.

While the project was revealed

during the sixth annual Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES), SunEdison’s experts have recently noted that the deal is a major gamechanger.

Recent projects within Kenya’s renewable power sector have driven down the cost of power in recent months to unprecedented levels.

Consumers have seen prices fall by more than 50 per cent over the past decade or so.

Now, the $2.2 billion (Sh223.5 billion) accord will reduce the cost of power for consumers and create up to 25,000 job opportunities for workers within the industry.

Kerry Adler, SkyPower’s President,

said the firm’s solar projects will “help Kenya realize its electrification goals.

“It will support the development of the country’s renewable energy industry and help the development of strong communities, generating a brighter future for all.” He said.

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BUSINESS THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2015

BIZ GADGET The camera phone has emerged as a dominant device for the production and sharing of photographic images.

No longer constrained by technological parameters of the past, the camera phone continues to remediate and refashion the tropes of traditional photography, thus giving rise to new image making processes and, arguably, new ways of seeing.

From early model camera phones manufactured in 2004 through to the enhanced capabilities, the camera phone has evolved from a crude digital imaging/

#TechThisOut: LG G4 sets pace for smartphone cameras communications tool into an intuitive networked media device.

It is now capable of capturing, editing, storing, and exporting high-resolution images.

At one time, the cost of film processing and photographic prints may have discouraged experimentation and restricted the use of the camera to the recording of significant life events such as weddings, birthdays, graduation, etc.

The LG G4 is a perfect example of a next generation phone. The 16-megapixel camera

lodged in its back is easily one of the best.

We’re getting to the point where smart phone makers are basically itching to squeeze fullblown DSLRs into our jeans pockets, and LG’s been more candid about those ambitions than most.

That larger 16-megapixel sensor (think 1/2.6 inch, versus the S6’s 1/3 inch) isn’t the only thing contributing to the experience.

There’s a color spectrum sensor here too, right under the LED flash bulb, and it scans what the camera’s pointed at before each shot.

From there, it tries to figure out how best to

tweak the white balance and exposure for a natural-looking shot.

If you want to see the G4 in its element, though, whip it out when the sun goes down.

Thanks to that f/1.8 aperture lens, the phone’s an absolute pro at sucking up photos even in the dimmest situations. There’s often a tendency for smart phones to smear the hell out of low-light photos in an effort to smooth out the visual noise, but the G4 thankfully doesn’t go overboard. The 8-megapixel frontfacing camera takes a mean selfie.

Reviving Kenya’s travel industry with high leaps An online hotel booking portal, jovago.com is changing Kenya’s travel industry.

Since its inception, they have capitalized on the internet and digital marketing to facilitate successful bookings for its users.

In a bid to get closer to the customers, they have opened offices in Dar-es-Salaam, Dakar, Douala, Algiers, Abidjan and Addis Ababa.

In partnership with Kenya Tourism Board, safari

link, Precision Air, Bus companies and travel agencies, jovago.com seeks to grow both local and international tourism in Kenya.

‘We are closing the gap between Africa and the world by ensuring that even the most remotely located hotel is given a chance on the Worldwide web, hence attracting global attention from potential and returning tourists, said Estelle Verdier, Managing Director jovago.com East and

South Africa.

Despite the high uptake of e-commerce and technology, Africa has lagged behind in the adoption of e-Tourism. The world Travel and Tourism council reports that more than 50% of hotel bookings are researched, booked, paid and reviewed online across the globe.

A recent report by World Economic Forum placed Kenya at position 78 globally; having shown a steady improvement over the last four years.

The country is also ranked in the top ten of the most web searched destinations for natural tourism thus it is important for entrepreneurs in the travel market to identify and adopt technology as a key driver for success and growth of the industry.S Speaking at a press briefing in Nairobi, jovago. com Head of Marketing, East Africa Mrs. Nafisa Fazal- Velji noted that their sole objective is to let the world know and appreciate that it is actually easy and affordable to travel Africa.

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From Left: KCB Group Chief Financial Officer Charles Kimathi, Chief Executive Officer Joshua Oigara, KCB Group Chairman Ng’eny Biwott and Chief Business Officer and Managing Director Kenya Samuel Makome peruse through the contents of the KCB 2015 Half Year Results that were released today. KCB Group posted a Kshs. 13.2Billion pre-tax profit for the financial year ended June 2015 as compared to Kshs. 11.7Billion in June 2014.

KCB Records 13% First Half Pre-Tax Profit Kenya Commercial Bank- KCB- has recorded a 13% pretax profit in its half year ending June 2015 financial results.

The growth attributed by the rise in funded, non-funded income, international business returns and efficient cost management.

For the first six months of 2015, profit before tax jumped from Sh. 11.7 Billion posted in June 2014 to hit KShs.13.2 Billion in June 2015.

KCB Group Chairman, Mr. Ngeny Biwott, said the business shrugged off a relatively tough business environment especially in Burundi and South Sudan to post the improved earnings.

“We had a relatively tough macro-economic and political environment in most of the markets the Bank operates.

In South Sudan and Burundi, we had economic shocks due to political tensions. Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania were hit by currency depreciation and high inflation while Rwanda was relatively stable” said Mr. Biwott.

KCB Group CEO Mr. Joshua Oigara said the impressive growth was supported by an increase in net interest income by (13.5%), growth in gross fees and commissions (21%) attributable to new products and higher transactions volumes.

“We have consistently focused on growing new business lines and strengthening the subsidiaries to drive the business to higher profitability and guarantee its sustainability. This is bearing fruit as seen in the increased earnings” said Mr Oigara.

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2015

ACCESS topstory

FASHION parade

10

Smoking a joint iS like Smoking 100 cigaretteS and we Still think thiS iS cool?

Huddah

Men have not been left behind in the indulgence.

Corazon Kwamboka.

I

f you ask most young adults what they consider the most essential life skills in the 21st century, being able to set up a shisha pipe will probably pop up somewhere on the list. Smoking shisha has been branded an elegant pastime, with popular Nairobi shisha bars such as Habibi and Casablanca sharing in a good percentage of Nairobi partygoers. But it is not just in Kenya where shisha smoking is revered. In fact, a study by the University of Florida revealed that 100 million people use shisha worldwide per day; and why not? After all, shisha smoking is colorfully decorated and is considered an indulgence of the affluent in society.

Many shisha smokers presume that shisha, also known as hookah, is the healthier alternative to cigarette smoking. Unlike cigarettes, shisha produces an enticing scent when burnt. Remember though, that the forbidden fruit tastes, or in this case smells, sweetest. So revered is shisha that even American rapper Tyga, who is suspected to have married Kylie Jenner in secret this week, recently did a song dubbed ‘hookah’ in honor of the product However, health is not the only reason shisha is widely preferred over cigarettes. Shisha smokers have devised a new way to spice things up: Adding other inebriating substances such as powdered marijuana to the tobacco before lighting it up, with the result being smoke that is much more intoxicating. A tobacco regulation clause formulated in 2007 is part of our constitution, which, among many other directives, stipulates that all cigarette packets should carry a ‘harmful to health’ warning message. Shisha kits do not carry such messages; tobacco lovers thus prefer shisha since they bear less guilt as they would have if they were smoking cigarettes.

Why are we ranting and lecturing about this seemingly innocent indulgence? Because The World Health Organization recently revealed that an hour spent smoking shisha is equivalent to smoking between 100 and 200 cigarettes. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of this fact, and end up poisoning themselves by giving up cigarette smoking for shisha.

Luckily, governments are

Before

Young lady taking a puff.

IS IT TIME KENYA BANNED

SHISHA? Health Organization recently revealed that an hour spent smoking shisha is equivalent to smoking between 100 and 200 cigarettes.

Vanessa Chettle

realizing that shisha is a silent killer, and countries such as Cambodia and Singapore have banned the substance. Early this week, the Ugandan parliament passed a bill to ban not just the smoking of shisha in the country, but also the importation, manufacturing and possession of shisha. Last year, the National Authority Campaigning against Drug Abuse in Kenya banned 19 shisha flavors after establishing that they were laced with heroin and marijuana. With the move by Ugandan legislators to completely ban shisha, the pressure on the Kenyan government to follow suit continues to grow. We appreciate that the government is in the middle of dealing with the second generation brews menace, but we also suggest that the government lists shisha as a top priority in its to-do-away-with agenda. With the weekend looming, do you still want to reach for that shisha? We think not.

8

ACCESS

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY, JULY 26th30 NOVEMBER 2015 2014

YOLO

The Red CRoss Team is able To Respond in good Time and save lives.

HOT TOPICS

The iVolunteer initiative effectively changed the way information was distributed and consumed.

USing Social media to Save

S

Nyota Ndogo

liveS

ocial media has slowly grown into a necessity in our lives. It is the first stop when we awake up and the last check before we sleep.

Although sometimes looked at negatively, social media has brought with it a lot of blessings.

Before, people used to wait for a certain time, relying on other news outlets to know what went on or who needed help. Now with social media it has become easier. Social media has given birth to a crop of digital humanitarians who use different platforms in order to save lives.

One such great example is the Red Cross iVolunteer initiative that has turned Kenyans online into volunteers. Kenyans tweet, or update a status tagging Kenya Red Cross and letting them know about an emergency situation. The Red Cross team is able to respond in good time and save lives.

With the unreliable emergency services in Kenya, iVolunteer has come to replace the non-operational 999 line. Every day, Red Cross is informed about the happenings and if anyone needs help they send over a team. The

the

PUnit ReUnite at K1

platform has also become the go to place to get information about anything and everything especially if there is an emergency.

This has made Kenyans more responsible about their safety and that of their fellow country man.

Now, if anything happens, the first people to get the information are the iVolunteer team online then the news goes on to gradually get to other people. In some instances around the world, social media has been used to track people who have been trapped in rubble in cases where there was an earthquake and they have been rescued.

The iVolunteer initiative effectively changed the way information was distributed and consumed.

Now the Kenya Red Cross page has become like a sort of news outlet where one goes to get news. The pages online provide fast and updated information about what is happening and where it is happening. The platform has also been used in recent times to gather Kenyans to help in donations and information awareness.

One small idea has now become the biggest tool that saves lives every day.

event

K1 Klubhouse was happening yesterday night. There were video releases ranging from the best in the industry to artistes who are just starting out. Robina, Mafia, Opips, Timmy Tdat, Sudiboy, Nyota Ndogo, Frasha, Gabbuh and Kristoff all launched their new jams. The night also saw Frasha and Gabbuh reunite on stage to perform the P-UNIT hits. It seems fans want the pop boy band back.

hot date

Wahu

T

samawaTi band

he first edition of the event will be going down from 10am at Karen, Bellavie House. The event promises to be one to remember as people will have the opportunity to network and make new friends. There will be great music from Samawati Band who are known for their wonderful and soothing voices. The Mc for the day is Oga @DTop. Tickets are going for Ksh 1200. You have no reason to miss out.

Wahu is back and she is sizzling hot She is back!!! Wahu has been away from the music industry for a while. She dropped her latest song, Nenda yesterday evening and caught everyone by surprise.

She had hinted at a song in the near future but not everyone was expecting it this soon. Is Mrs Nameless hinting at something?

Sample and be the judge.

9

ACCESS THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2015

all round news and updates from universities.

CAMPUSVIBE

KUsa lEadErship in troUblE Kenyatta University students association (KUSA) secretary general Steven Mwandime has called it quits as the leader of the association.

In a bid to abide by the KUSA laws, the soft spoken speaker penned a letter addressing the speaker of the congress Collins Ooko.

Steven in his letter cited frustration from within KUSA as a major setback

and main reason for his resignation.

Students are now speculating that the eloquent speaker has found other important commitments and working as the student leader might become a major hindrance.

The KUSA chair, Thuku is yet to break the silence as the seat remains vacant for the next 3 months before a newly elect S.G takes over.

Steven Mwandime

Kenyatta University webpage climbs higher at Alexa website ranking

Obama’s visit to Kenyatta University seems to have elevated the Uni to unexplained heights.

Now, the university web page www.

Ku.ac.ke has been ranked as the top University webpage in Kenya, according to web ranking released

by Alexa.

Apparently, the ranking is not related to academic performance nor is it ranked according to infrastructural development of the varsity but by the frequent number of people visiting the website.

Meanwhile, UoN is still foaming in the mouth about the POTUS snub.

It seems that most Egerton University students have been waiting for the day Prof James Kiprono Tuitoek, Vice Chancellor would complete his term, as his departure from the helm of the institution was received with much jubilation.

For the past few years students from the varsity have been lamenting over unresolved issues especially tribalism which they say was encouraged in the varsity by the outgoing Vice chancellor.

The students are assured that their welfare will be considered and they hope that none of their complaints will fall on deaf ears as a new VC takes over.

During the dark Tuitoek period, many students faced suspension or discontinuation from studies in unclear circumstances, as they claimed. It would appear this exit is not one to mourn about.

carEErchat

W

hat does your job entail?

As a production associate, I manage the production of clothing pieces for the brand I work for, Tullia.

First, I sketch styles as per instructions from the design team and I help produce patterns. Part of my job also falls under procurement: I source suppliers for fabrics and trims with the best value for cost. Lastly, I make sure both our samples and our inventory are produced according to very precise specifications - so there is a part of quality control.

How many hours do you work in a day?

I usually work 8-9 hours a day, but it depends on the production schedule some periods are more intensive than other.

What qualifications do you need for your job?

You definitely need pattern-making and grading

EgErton UnivErsity stUdEnts cElEbratE vc Exit

Valentine Dali is a Production Associate at Tullia. She shares her corporate grind secrets. (the science of creating sizes for ready-to-wear pieces) skills.

These are quite technical. Also, having a sense of priority while completing my tasks helps me multi-task e ff e c t i v e l y.

F i n a l l y , understanding structure and shape of garments as well as how colors suit one another is important.

Was this your dream career?

I knew I wanted to work in the fashion industry. As a little girl, I always found myself making dresses for dolls using glue. I want to work hard to reach a senior position within the company, but at some point, I would like to start my own label.

How did you start out?

After graduating from Evelyn School of Fashion Design and completing an internship at Kanga Kulture, I applied for jobs.

As the local fashion industry is still budding, good positions are scarce. My first job was in sales, but I kept looking until I found a truly creative position.

What achievements have you had so far?

I think my learning curve has been pretty steep. We work with processes and integrated systems so I learnt new software—and, I am still learning. I make progresses daily. I learned how to move away from the fashionistas world to be more commercial. We want to see our garments worn, not only featured in magazines. I also have been complimented within our design team for my sense of style – which customers have confirmed.

Any challenges you have experienced so far?

Making sure I maintain an eye for detail. An error in a pattern or costing can be disastrous while

producing large orders.

Does your job interfere with your social life?

Not really, I have two off days.

I get ample time to spend time with my family and friends.

What is the best part of your job?

Travelling to see suppliers and production plants, going on research visits to art galleries, trade shows etc. And seeing a collection come to life while shooting our collections for our catalogue.

Worst part of your job?

There is no worst part of my job as I really enjoy what I am doing.

Any advice for a budding Production Associate?

Make sure to find the right brand that will provide a great working environment.

Always grow your network – learn with true professionals versed in international standards of production. And of course, you are on the right path if you love what you do!

VALENTINE DALI:

ALL ABOUT THE CUT

10

ACCESS THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2015

FASHIONparade

@ samantha bridal.

Bridal masquerades.

Perfect way to spice up a ball gown.

The flowing veil is just beautiful.

Headbands are the in thing.

The mermaid gown suits her effortlessly.

the samantha bridal expo is back Shear is always a win.

TOP

multilingual celebs

n today’s world, weddings have become a lifestyle statement among couples. And during the weekend, Samantha Bridals is having an expo that will go down from Friday to Sunday at the Sarit Centre. This expo will showcase different types of style and designs for that all important day.

It will go all the way from runway shows to set up showcases. The

The Columbian singer wins the award for speaking the most languages on the list.

Not only can the ‘Waka Waka’ beauty speak in Spanish but she is also fluent in English, Portuguese, and also Arabic.

She can also speak a little French, Italian and Catalan.

Natalie Portman is an Israeli-born American actress, producer, and director. The 32-year-old actress and Harvard-graduate speaks fluent Hebrew and English. The Hollywood’s brightest star also knows conversational French, Japanese, Arabica, German, and Spanish.

natalie portman

i

shakira isabel

tom hiddleston

designers that will be in attendance are Occasions and Days, Next boutique, Wambui Mukenyi, Shytess fashion and design, The perfect bride, Molly’s bridal, Big Boss, Nectar bridal and sensuous logistics. You definitely can’t afford to miss this.

Spare some time during the weekend and check it out. Here is what to look forward to.

The English actor is fluent in about four: Spanish, English, French, and Greek, the latter which he learned while studying classics at Cambridge University.

The multilingual avengers star does not shy away from sharing his lingual gift with the world. Maybe it is the reason for him having many fans.

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WEATHERFORECAST

DAILYHOROSCOPES CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan19 Nitpicky details you failed to attend to earlier may now come back to haunt you. The time to take care of the job is now. Balance your checkbook and do your laundry. Clean your bathtub and go shopping. The more you accomplish today, the better you will feel about yourself tomorrow.

AQUARIUS Jan 20 - Feb 18 Discipline and attention to the sand slipping through the hourglass are the journey’s themes. The more you’re able to accomplish, the better you’ll feel. Stagnant energy is a sign that it’s time to get moving. Don’t waste a moment waiting for someone else to come up with a solution.

THURSday 30/07/2015

sunny

22

24ºC 59%

FRIday 31/07/2015

More sun than clouds

23 6:37 am 6:41pm

25ºC 59%

6:37 am 6:41 pm

SATURday

22

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

PISCES Feb 19 - Mar 20 Put aside frivolity for a day, Pisces. This is an important time to prepare for the future. Don’t take another step before you know you’re on solid ground. This is an important time to establish your goals. Writing them down will help you realize them in life. Think about the long-term harvest.

Sudoku

ARIES Mar 21 - Apr 19 People may be a bit critical of you today, Aries. You would do well to listen to what they say. Be receptive of feedback so you can establish a healthy ego. Keep your sense of humility. You may feel critical as you see people moving like sloths compared to your lightning quick mind.

TAURUS Apr 20 - May 20 People’s comments may seem harsh even if they may mean well. Your best defense against the critical tone of the day is to use other people’s criticisms as constructively as you can in order to build a stronger framework from which to work. Process this energy in a positive frame of mind.

GEMINI May 21 - Jun 21 This isn’t a day to focus on fun and games, Gemini. In fact, you may feel an annoying weightiness about your emotions, making you feel less energetic than usual. There’s a sober tone asking you to look at reality and make some serious decisions about your future goals and plans.

CANCER Jun 22 - Jul 21 You may want to stick to business. Concentrate on getting things done in your regular routine.

Create a plan and stick to it. This isn’t a day to deviate from the norm, nor is it a time in which you will find much sympathy from others. Stick close to home and take care of your personal business.

LEO Jul 23- Aug 22 You may want to seek comfort in their company, but this will only produce grouchiness in all parties involved. Curb your tendency to find fault with the ones you love. Your best bet is to focus on tasks you have on the back burner. Tackle projects that need special attention and discipline.

VIRGO Aug 23- Sep 22 There’s a squeeze on your emotions today, Virgo, which might leave you feeling like a pot of boiling water. Just by knowing there’s a lid on things, you’re likely to heat up even faster than usual. A rage will get you nowhere. Concentrate your energy on getting your material affairs in order.

LIBRA Sep 23 - Oct 22 You’re probably better off keeping to yourself. If you’re feeling sad or depressed, it’s best to work through these feelings on your own. Other people aren’t apt to be too sympathetic to your situation.

You’re better off sticking to your work to keep the demons out of your head.

SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21 You may feel a restriction to the day, but in truth, this is for your own good, Scorpio. Your sense of discipline comes in handy as you tackle your work with incredible enthusiasm. Your goals aren’t far from your reach. Stay focused and don’t get pressured by the ticking clock.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 - Dec 21 Although it may sound ridiculous, checking things off your list is the most rewarding activity today.

Try not to be too critical of others. Focus on your tasks. Mountains that seem too daunting to climb will continue to grow bigger until you take the first step upward.

MUSTREAD SO Long a Letter — by Mariama BA

Ramatoulaye has just lost her husband. She writes her friend, Aissatou a letter.

She tells her friend of the paun of losing her husband and the ceremonies she has to tske part of as a muslim woman. Aissatou is also without her husband. She divorced him after he took on a second wife. Ramatoulaye recounts their lives from their days at the teaching college to when they got married.

Ramatoulaye’s husband was not accepted by her community and family but she went ahead and married him. Aissatou who is a goldsnith’s daughter, is looked down upon by her inlaws. Noth men become very succesful and decide yo take on second wives. The letter chronicles how the women dealt with the disappointment of the betrayals.

12

PLAY

THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2015

CROSSWORD Across 1. Be worthy of 5. Bulbotuber 9. New world parrot 14. Buck back?

15. Word stricken from some marriage vows 16. “Dancing With the Stars” airer 17. Arabic salad 19. ___ Jean Baker 20. Bikini, e.g.

21. Mideast alphabet opener 23. Have dinner 25. Four-sided figure 30. Bird enthusiast 33. Ending for para or ortho 35. ‘20s and ‘30s art style 36. Pilotless aircraft 37. ____ nitrite (heart medicine) 39. Insolent smile 42. Greek promenade 43. Fulminated 45. Hershey bar with a Nordic name 47. Cobbler’s tool 48. Disney’s 1970 feline film 52. Pilot who gets frozen in carbonite 53. Sch. attended by Romney and Obama 54. Investigate, kitten-style 57. Tibet University locale 61. YouTube upload 65. Amateurs 67. Three-lined poem

68. ____ retentive 69. Orator’s skill: Abbr.

70. Icy rain 71. Semester, e.g.

72. Printing goof Down 1. “____ Bowl of Tea” (Louis Chu novel) 2. What the suspicious may smell?

3. ___-call (automated solicitation) 4. Displaying a higher quality 5. Neck, in France 6. Beatles nonsense syllables 7. Rod attachment 8. “You’re a lifesaver!”

9. Boy’s future 10. Blood classification system 11. “Proud Mary” band, for short 12. Bank machine 13. Penn. neighbor 18. Warner of “The Jazz Singer” 22. PA airport code 24. Knots 26. Baseball VIPs 27. Regions’ accumulations of life 28. “Nothing’s Gonna Stop ___” (Starship song) 29. Make off with 30. Element before tent or bar 31. Vintage film channel 32. Lifting device 33. Vader or Maul 34. Mutual of ___ (insurance giant) 38. Grazing grounds

40. Orson Welles studio 41. Gary of golf 44. Quit school 46. Good news for investors 49. Dockworkers’ gp.

50. Apathetic remark 51. Concert purchase, perhaps 55. Tops 56. Skier’s ride 58. Pale and wan 59. Dance bit 60. Vis-à-vis 61. Outdated recording format 62. End for den or cord 63. Monopoly cube 64. Barely make, with “out” 66. Dept. of the Interior agcy.

Yesterday’s answers

YOURSAY

Saving lives in south Sudan efforts step in the right direction President Obama’s focus on the South Sudan crisis during his visit to Africa is an important step in the right direction. Intervention

by African leaders — supported by strong United States leadership

— will be essential for ending the conflict. Millions of lives depend on it.

I hope that the continuing discussions will translate into tangible action to stop the fighting

now, beginning with the end of regional support for the warring parties and with a credible threat of international sanctions.

The president should also support the public release of the African Union’s

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

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Ex: HC4 to 22333

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

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Commission of Inquiry report, a crucial step toward establishing accountability and reconciliation, and the establishment of hybrid courts to prosecute perpetrators of atrocities. Ending the obstruction

of humanitarian aid, a violation of international law, must be a top priority as well.

—Ella Okumu, Nairobi

Students need enough rest for better performance in school

We know that teenagers’ bodies naturally want to stay up late and wake up late. Schools that have recognized this and moved their high school and primary school schedules to start times later report improved student health and academic performance.

But too many schools like my own, in which students go to bed at 11pm and forced to

wake up at 4am, persist in working against the physical needs of their students rather than with them. We can address this one cause of student fatigue, and I hope that more schools will do so.

— Concerned Teacher, Nairobi

County women representatives are failing the womenfolk What exactly is the work of County Women Reps, it not representing the fair gender on national fronts? That being said, all women reps in Kenya have failed all women. Most of them actually do not have the slightest idea of what their jobs are all about.

They are supposed to spur gender equality initiatives, women empowerment projects and an awful lot of other responsibilities. They are not doing that. They were elected to just take money from us. Shame!

— Caroline Gituku, Nairobi

Send your letters to news@x-news.co.ke | Letters will be edited for summary and clarity

SPORT 13

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2015

Mourinho digs at Benitez’s weight in incredible rant Chelsea Manager Jose Mourinho has accused Real Madrid boss Rafael Benitez of “destroying the best team in Europe” when the Spaniard replaced him at Inter Milan in 2010.

The Chelsea boss spoke after Benitez’s wife joked her husband was “tidying up” another Mourinho “mess” at Real.

As well as Real, Benitez also managed Chelsea - although he did not directly replace Mourinho at either club.

“The lady is a bit confused,” Mourinho, 52, said after Chelsea’s International Champions Cup win over Barcelona.

“Her husband went to Chelsea to replace Roberto Di Matteo and he went to Real Madrid and replaced Carlo Ancelotti.

“The only club where her husband replaced me was at Inter Milan, where in six months he destroyed the best team in Europe at the time.”

Not content with setting the record straight, Mourinho then made a jibe about Benitez’s physical shape.

He said that if Montserrat Seara, Benitez’s wife, focused on taking care “of her husband’s diet” then “she will not have any time to talk about me”

SHUT IT RAFA: Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho (right) and Rafa Benitez (left). Mourinho said that if Montserrat Seara, Benitez’s wife, focused on taking care of her husband’s diet then she will not have any time to talk about him.

7-a-Side Mtaani soccer tournament launched​in Kibera

FOOTBALL FOR PEACE: Action during a SportPesa tournament. Identity Kenya has organised a unique football tournament dubbed Mtaani Konnect Cup 2015.

Identity Kenya has organised a unique football tournament dubbed Mtaani Konnect Cup 2015, which will take place in Lang’ata Constituency on 15th to 16th August 2015.

The tourney, which was launched on Wednesday at the Constituency, is open to all teams from Nairobi County.

The tournament will consist of seven players per team (Seven-a-side). The main aim is to help the youth interact, put a side ethnic difference and give them an opportunity to showcase their talents.

Speaking during the official launch, Businessman and main sponsor Candy and Candy Records Chief Executive Officer Joe Kariuki, said the initiative is geared towards national healing and reconciliation, youth empowerment and will help identify upcoming talents in football especially in estates hence the Kiswahili name Mtaani.

“The Mtaani soccer tournament will bring more than 200 teams from the Nairobi County and its environs, with at least 50 teams already

confirming their participation which aims to bring cohesion and a forum to showcase and maximize their full potential,” he said.

Winners will walk away with Sh30,000 inclusive of the main Trophy. First runners up will receive Sh20,000 while the second runner up receiving Sh10,000. Other grand prizes include four grand motorbikes and branded ‘balls’ that will be given to tournaments best players, best team and best coaches.

The tournament will be held annually, and with time the cash prizes will increase as time goes by. Registration per team is Sh1,000 and it’s ongoing with the deadline being on 10th August 2015.

With the tournament now launched, Kariuki also welcomed other partners to come on board and join hands with the main purpose being to help and nurture the talents in football as well as create job opportunities especially with other youth who will be exhibiting their art works and other talents while the tournament is going on.

​ obala, Nginda book early semis K date in Airtel Rising Stars games​ Lake Region representatives, Kobala Secondary School are expected to battle for the top spot in the girls’ pool B against Nginda (from Aberdare region) in the ongoing ​Airtel Rising Star-​Kenya Secondary Schools Sports​ ​​Association (KSSSA) games in Machakos ​County.​ Both teams top pool B with six points having won all their opening preliminary matches against Eburu and Kikima on day one of the games respectively

The leaders have already qualified for Friday’s semifinal but the match is expected to live up to its expectation as they seek to avoid groups ‘A’ leader.

Orio Nancy, Anney Matinde, Sheila Kisivi and Yvonne Ogada both laughed with the net in Kobala’s massive 4-0 win over Kikima on Wednesday while Nginda extended Eburu’s poor run in the games.

Nginda came from a goal down after Pamela Simiyu had given Mau region’s

representatives the lead in the 40th minute but Rachael Mwema cancelled the lead in the just after three minute.

Eburu scored the winner in the 64th minute to book an early semifinal slot with a match to spare.

These games will be used to sele​ ct the Kenyan team for the East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Association games to be held in Rwanda.

SPROUTING STARS: Passenga Boys High’s James Mwangi (18) and Joseph Wene vie for the ball against Waa Boys at the ARS National Games on July 28 in Machakos. PHOTO/Courtesy

14

SPORT THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2015

Lionesses in tough World Rugby Series qualifiers pool National women’s sevens team has been drawn in a tough Pool B in the World Rugby Series qualifiers scheduled for August 22 and 23 in Dublin, Ireland.

The Kenya Lioness open their campaign against China who are out to maintain their core status, before facing Netherlands and 2016 Olympics bound Colombia in the 12-team tournament where only two nations will earn promotion to the 2015-16 Women’s World Rugby Series season.

The team that is in a nonresidential training under the tutelage of head Coach Mike Shamiah, hopes to reach the Main Cup finals to qualify for their maiden appearance in the prestigious six-leg tournament.

The Lioness who will also be seeking to qualify for Rio 2016 Olympics when they battle for the only African slot in September, have not had a competitive match since edging out Uganda to retain the Elgon Cup in June.

Brazil, who have already

qualified for the Olympics as hosts, will play Wales, Japan and Samoa in Pool A while hosts Ireland will take on an improving South Africa, Hong Kong and Mexico in Pool C. Speaking ahead of the tournament, Ireland’s Director of Rugby Sevens Anthony Eddy said, “It’s massively important to get onto the sevens series circuit, it’s our number one goal, so we can play against the best teams in the world.

“If we are going to have a shot at the Olympic repechage we

LIONESS ROAR: Sinaida Aura of Kenya Lionesses evades a tackle during their Elgon Cup clash against Uganda in May. PHOTO/CapitalFM

are going to have to play at the best level.”

“With 12 countries competing in this event from all over the world, this is a great opportunity to give the game more exposure in Ireland.”

New Zealand, Canada,

Australia and Team GB are the other Rio 2016 qualified nations, while Mexico and Ireland have earned a spot in the global qualifier next year which will determine the 12th and final qualifier for the women’s event in Rio.

Arsenal confirm Wojciech Szczesny season-long loan move to serie-a side as Roma Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has joined Italian side Roma on a season-long loan.

The 25-year-old lost his place towards the end of last season to David Ospina, before the Gunners signed Chelsea keeper Petr Cech last month. Poland international Szczesny made 180 2006 when he joined the youth ranks from Legia Warsaw.

“I believe he will have a future at Arsenal,” said boss Arsene Wenger. “I rate him highly. I put him in the first team at the age of 20 and he already has huge experience.

“Roma is a big club, they play in the Champions League, play in a very different championship and that is a big experience for him.”

Szczesny played in 17 Premier League games last season and his last appearance for the Gunners was in the 4-0 FACup final win against Aston Villa in May. “I had a difficult time last year I’m the first person to admit that,” he said.

“I didn’t have the best of seasons, that’s why things have turned out the way they have, but I’m grateful because it gives me the opportunity to join Roma this season. be able to help the team improve from last season and hopefully challenge for the title.”

LOANED: Szczesny lost t his place towards the end of last season to David Ospina, before the Gunners signed Chelsea keeper Petr Cech last month.

China and South Africa have experienced the pressure of a qualifier before, having safely negotiated the 2014 event in Hong Kong along with Fiji and France to enter the 201415 series.

Zane Branson died of Heart Attack, autopsy report shows The cause of sudden death of renowned Athletes’ Representative Zane Branson has been revealed to be heart attack according to preliminary autopsy report.

“Preliminary autopsy indicates heart attack, ” David Savija, Branson’s close associate and colleague at International Athletics Consultancy (IAC) who died on July 25th in Iten, t​old Capital Sports.

T​he family of the fallen Athletics hero has accepted one of his final requests to be laid to rest in Iten, the Kenyan athletics hub he cherished on August 15.

Branson collapsed and died in a chilly Saturday morning in Iten as they waited for another group led by Boston Marathon third finisher, Wilson Chebet, to join them to plan for the day’s programme.

“Zane is to be laid to rest at Kerio View on August 15. Exact time and other logistics are to be communicated in days to come. Over 1,500 mourners are expected.

“Family from the US, as well from friends from all over the world, will join us in saying good bye to Zane. August 15 was the date that worked for athletes, as well as it was appropriate for the family,” said ​Savija.

His shocking demise has continued to draw tributes from around the world with a fitting sendoff planned to ensure he will always remain in a community he served selflessly served for decades.

“Zane was baptized in the Serbian Orthodox Church. Greek Orthodox Church is present in Kenya and according to the calendar of Greek Orthodox Church; August 15 is one of the biggest holidays – The Dormition of the Mother of God,” Savija added.

SPORT 15

KVF to blame for Kenya’s lousy show in Egypt Evans Wasike, Kenya men’s Volleyball Team Manager took to social Media to express his ‘embarrassment’ following Kenya’s 3-2 (14-25, 19-25, 25-21, 25-20, 15-13) lose to Botswana in the ongoing CAVB-African Nations championship, 7-8 playoff match held Wednesday evening in Cairo, Egypt.

Wasike who is also the Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) Secretary General posted a partially covered portrait of a man hiding his face with his finger followed by ‘am embarrassed’ message after Kenya’s lose. Kenya surrendered a two sets advantage to allow Botswana whom they beat by straight set in the

preliminary round come back and win the match 15-13 in a tie breaker.

According to insiders, the ‘intentionally’ players lost the match to protest the poor treatment they’ve been accorded by KVF ahead of this championship compared to their female counterparts.

KVF has been accused of favoritism when it comes the treatment of both genders with the over pampered women’s team usually accorded enough time for training and hefty allowances compared to their male colleagues. Currently women’s teams, ‘A’ and ‘B’ for African Games (Congo Brazzaville) and world Cup (Japan) have begun their preparation

for the games which are three weeks away, the men’s team only trained together for four days ahead of Cairo games.

Outspoken Captain, Philip Maiyo who plays pro-Volley in Qatar wrote this after the lose “Don’t rush to criticize the team, there are many challenges facing the team. Wining/losing is part of the game.

Good preparations good results. KVF save Kenya volleyball men before it’s too late.”

“This is not good we must rise and work,” David Lung’aho, the national women’s team head coach also added his voice on the debate.

POOR SHOW: Kenya men volleyball team (in white jerseys) in action against their Egyptian counterparts.

Ashes 2015: Anderson burst helps England take charge England bounced back from their Lord’s humiliation to seize control of the third Ashes Test in an astonishingly one-sided first day at Edgbaston.

Feeding off the passion of a boisterous crowd at the venue where they famously ignited their 2005 Ashes campaign, England bundled out the tourists for 136 on a seaming pitch and reached 133-3 at the close.

A potent James Anderson took his best Ashes figures of 6-47, and Steven Finn marked his first Test appearance for two years with the wickets of Steve Smith and Michael Clarke after Australia had won the toss and chosen to bat.

On a day punctuated by short rain delays, the mood of England and their supporters was lifted further still by the sight of Ian

Bell flaying the Australia attack around the ground under floodlights in the evening session.

Five balls after reaching fifty, however, Bell tossed his wicket away with a needless heave at Nathan Lyon that took a fraction of the gloss off England’s nearperfect day.

Despite Bell’s frivolousness, England were unrecognisable from the meek outfit that had been bowled out for 103 on the fourth day of the Lord’s Test as Australia romped to a 405-run victory.

The tourists, whose innings duration of 36.4 overs was two balls fewer than England’s at Lord’s, will rue some injudicious shots from their middle order. But on a pitch offering just enough sideways movement and carry to assist

their bowlers, England put themselves well on course to take a 2-1 lead in the series with two matches to play.

An ankle injury to Mark Wood gave Finn the opportunity to play Test cricket for the first time since he was dropped after the first Ashes Test in 2013 and later sent home from the 2013-14 tour down under, having been deemed “unselectable” by then coach Ashley Giles.

Some 18 months later, on an overcast morning at Edgbaston, Finn was closer to unplayable as he accounted for Smith and Clarke inside his first three overs.

Smith was caught behind for seven off a gem of a delivery which moved away off the seam, while Clarke was bowled by a superb yorker for 10, making it eight innings.

THURSDAY, JULY 23, 2015

xnews | THURsDAY, jULY 30, 2015 | www.x-news.co.ke

zane Branson died of heart attack, autopsy report

MY NAME IS ZLATAN: Zlatan Ibrahimovic wheels away after scoring PSG’s second goal in Chicago.

read p14 Mourinho takes dig at Benitez’s eating haBits in incrediBle rant

read p14 seven-a-side Mtaani soccer tourney rolled out in kiBera

p14

Ibrahimovic, Matuidi on target as De Gea flops

Z

latan Ibrahimoviv and Blaise Matuidi handed Manchester United their first pre-season defeat in their tuor of US Wednesday (Thursday Kenyan time) following 2-0 to clinch the International Champions Cup exhibition tournament in Chicago.

Matuidi gave the French League 1 side the lead in the first half before Ibrahimovic thumped home a second on a sweltering evening at Chicago’s iconic Soldier Field stadium, home of the NFL Chicago Bears.

The win ended United’s positive in their pre-season tour following a disastrous league campaign last season. The lose will however send some shiver down the spin of Van Gaal who had beaten Club America, San Jose Earthquakes and European champions Barcelona in their three previous games.

However, the English Premier League giants were undone by two goals from PSG, which highlighted the defensive frailty of Louis van Gaal’s squad, which has been bolstered by several high-profile signings this summer.

United began promisingly, stroking the ball around comfortably and probing for openings against the Parisian defenders.

Former Chelsea star, Juan Mata had put United ahead in the 22 minute but his goal was overruled for an offside. But three minutes later, PSG struck at the other end when a long ball forward caused havoc in United’s defensive unit.

French international Matuidi raced forward and got between Luke Shaw and Phil Jones to toe-poke home past the onrushing David De Gea to make it 1-0.

PSG doubled their lead nine minutes later with a well-worked goal that came all too easily for the French champions.

Ibrahimovic picked up the ball in midfield and released Maxwell down the left flank.

The Brazilian fullback advanced and then calmly picked out Ibrahimovic with the return pass for the Swedish star to slot past De Gea. The build-up to the match had been dominated by speculation surrounding United’s unsettled Argentine star Angel Di Maria, who is expected to complete a move to PSG imminently.

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