2016010031 xnews

MOnday, OCTOBeR 31, 2016 | www.x254.CO

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COTU THREATENS TO SUE OVER MINISTRY SCANDAL

THE UMBRELLA WORKERS UNION THROUGH ACTING SECRETARY GENERAL BENSON OKWARO SAYS THEY ARE IRKED BY THE REPORTED LOSS OF BILLIONS MEANT FOR HEALTHCARE SERVICES

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NEWS

GOR MAHIA DELAY TUSKER CORONATION WITH A CONVINCING WIN OVER MATHARE UNITED

LUKAKU AND BARKLEY SCORE TO HELP EVERTON TO PREMIER LEAGUE WIN OVER WEST HAM UNITED

Demos called as pressure mounts over health scam

C

ivil society groups have called for a demonstration on Wednesday to protest and mount pressure for Health Principal Secretary Nicholas Muraguri to resign following revelations that Sh5 billion was lost at the ministry through irregular payments.

The National Civil Society Congress (NCSC) wants Dr Muraguri to step down over the alleged misappropriation of Sh5 billion meant for various projects in the ministry including the free maternity programme.

Muraguri has been on spot after he allegedly threatened a journalist who sought more information over the unraveling scandal. He has since apologised.

The claims of the theft are based on an interim internal audit report which has unearthed what appears to be a scandal similar to that of the National Youth Service where the Integrated Financial Management System was infiltrated and payments made to dubious companies illegally.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Health Cabinet Secretary Cleopa Mailu (right) and his Principal Secretary Nicholas Muraguri. Dr maiulu has denied that money was lost in the ministry as revealed by a leaked audit report. PHOTO: Courtesy

South Sudan conflict haunts CS Amina’s AU candidature Kenya’s handling of the stabilization of South Sudan is among the key issues that now confront the candidature of Ambassador Amina Mohamed as the next head of the African Union (AU) Commission.

According to Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Monicah Juma,

Amina’s competitors are challenging her candidature on the argument that Kenya has failed to foster peace in the troubled nation despite positioning herself as the regional kingpin.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

KNEC warns on fake exam papers Candidates scheduled to sit their Kenya Certificate for Primary Education from tomorrow have been warned not to rely on papers currently being circulated.

Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC) chairman George Magoha in a statement has told parents and pupils to ignore such papers and warned that those who will rely on them will be in for a rude shock. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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NEWS MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2016

Demos called as pressure mounts over health scam

From Page 1 It reveals massive loss of public funds through diversion of funds, double payments of goods and manipulation of the Integrated Financial Management System.

“The National Civil Society Congress (NCSC) working with Operation Ondoa Panya has called for protest on Wednesday against theft of public funds at the Ministry of Health and other related corruption cases,” NCSC president Morris Odhiambo announced at a press conference in Nairobi on Sunday.

He said their action was informed by the lack of commitment from the top leadership in fighting the corruption menace.

“This is a historical problem. All Kenya’s presidents and senior political leaders have given room for their acolytes to steal public resources and money with impunity. This lack of commitment has been demonstrated many times,” he added.

In the latest scandal at the health ministry, about Sh800 million is said to have been paid to Estama Investment Limited to supply 100 portable medical clinics but four months after the financial year ended, not a single clinic had been supplied.

Another company said to have received the diverted funds is Esaki Limited, associated with the former Ethics

and Anti-Corruption Commission Chairperson Phillip Kinisu.

The company allegedly received Sh150.1 million.

The report further reveals millions of diverted public funds that jeopardise

the free maternity programme.

Health Cabinet Secretary Dr Cleopa Mailu has however dismissed claims that the firms were favoured on account of their association with members of the executive.

Health Cabinet Secretary Cleopa Mailu (right) and his Principal Secretary Nicholas Muraguri. Dr maiulu has denied that money was lost in the ministry as revealed by a leaked audit report.

PHOTO: Courtesy

KNEC warns on fake exam papers

On Sunday, the CS said that all Kenyans have a right to transact business with the government unless there is direct conflict of interest as clearly stipulated by law.

“As far as I am concerned anybody can transact business with any institution as long as there is no conflict of interest, and I have looked at the Public Ethics Act, I have looked at the Integrity Act of the Public Servants the extent to which we can define conflict of interest, those people who are doing business with the ministry they have a right to do so and I don’t see a conflict of interest,” he said.

Some of the companies include Sundales International Limited whose Managing Director Kathleen Kihanya, a close relative President Uhuru Kenyatta, admitted receiving Sh41 million for a supplies contract.

Mailu said he will appoint an independent auditor to re-look at all contracts at the Ministry in the 2015/16 financial year.

While promising to continue releasing information and clarifying the contents of the leaked report, the CS said the information he had received by Sunday showed that there was no money lost.

“From the information I have today, I have not come across any loss of money.

What I have seen is that projects have been completed,” he told reporters.

MORE ON THIS STORY www.capitalfm.co.ke

Mudavadi slams CS over external auditor hiring

Amani National Congress Party leader Musalia Mudavadi has termed the call for an external auditor in the Sh5.3 billion theft at the ministry of health unconstitutional.

Mudavadi alleged the move could be an illegal cover up by the government arguing that under the Public Audit Act and The Public Finance Management Act, no external auditor can be hired without the authority of the Auditor General.

Health Cabinet Secretary Cleopa Mailu yesterday announced that he will appoint an independent auditor to relook at all contracts at the Ministry in the 2015/16 financial year.

But Mudavadi says must first write to the Auditor General who must justify his inability to carry out the audit at the ministry before an independent auditor can be hired.

Amani National Congress leader Musalia Furthermore, the Auditor General must superintend the hiring through a Mudavadi.

competitive process and not a Cabinet Secretary, he added.

“If it is a fact, as the government has all along insisted that the contentious audit report is a draft subject to verification, then hiring an external auditor to verify the internal auditors report is superfluous. In any case, Cabinet Secretary Cleopa Mailu fictional claims that no money was stolen do not add up when he still wants to discredit the internal auditors report via an external audit,” Mudavadi said in a statement to newsrooms today morning.

He termed Dr Mailu’s utterances as a decoy to buy time to clean and doctor records.

“The trend of hiring external auditors could became a tragic comedy when Kenyans will be treated to the joke of the President hiring the same external audit services to smoke out corruption cartels that he has confessed have overwhelmed him,” he said.

“Kenyans deserve accountability from their government and not deception and lies. It is obvious to Kenyans that the Jubilee regime holds with contempt the Office of the Auditor General, despite it being a constitutional office. Only recently they passed unconstitutional amendments in law in a vain attempt to strip the office of its constitutional powers,” Mudavadi claimed.

The ANC leader accused the government of unfairly targeting the Auditor General Edward Ouko claiming he is seen as the major impediment to their grand plan to loot public funds.

“The vain attempt to intimidate and blackmail the Auditor General through the supposed external auditor to coverup the misdeeds in the ministry of health must be resisted because the plot is unconstitutional and illegal,” he said @ sam_x254

From Page 1 “Kenyans should to stop falling prey to the con game by unscrupulous people who are out to fleece them,” Prof. Magoha said adding that investigations have been launched to apprehend those involved.

“No parent or candidate should be cheated by anyone that he has the original paper for KCPE, no exam has been leaked as far as we are concerned,” he added.

Magoha said the council has received reports of people purporting to be selling ‘genuine’ KCPE examination papers that candidates are scheduled to sit beginning tomorrow.

Close to a million Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) candidates are scheduled to sit for their final exams.

This years’ exams will be done under the far reaching reforms introduced

by Education Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang’i to curb massive cheating that was witnessed last year.

Matiang’i said last week that the government is determined to deliver credible exams this year by sealing all cheating loopholes.

“I want to assure every parent and candidate that we are determined as a government to deliver a credible exams this year,” Matiang’i said.

In the new guidelines, candidates will not access examination rooms with clipboards and geometrical sets.

“Candidates will instead be required to carry their geometrical instruments and writing materials in clear see-through bags or polythene papers”, reads a circular issued by the ministry of education to all schools.

Mathematical tables and calculators during examination papers for which they are not required have also been banned from examination rooms.

The use of mobile phones within the precincts of the examination centers has also been banned for those involved in the exercise.

Matiang’i also said that teachers who will have no role to play in the management of the exams will also be allowed to begin their holidays.

“We have agreed with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) that teachers who are not assigned any role are now free to begin their holiday,” Matiang’i said. @ sam_x254

NE WS 3 NEWS MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2016

Cotu now threatens to sue over Sh5.3bn health scam

The Central Organization on Trade Union (COTU) has now threatened to take legal action against those implicated in the reported loss of Sh5 billion at the ministry of Health.

Cotu acting Secretary General Benson Okwaro said the workers umbrella union is watching on the events at the ministry and warned that they will move to court if the government fails to act on the matter.

“It is a mockery for workers of this country who endure while paying taxes that only end up in the pockets of a few individuals,” Okwaro said in a statement.

“The union will protect every shilling paid by the workers of this country to the government and we are keenly following as the events unfold at the ministry of health over this scandal,” he added.

Okwaro also took issue with the sentiments expressed by Deputy President William Ruto who has publicly downplayed the scandal at the ministry of health.

“It is evident as shown by the audit report that money was lost at the ministry. Any other report expressed by the Deputy President will not go down well with us as workers and the public at large,” Okwaro said Ruto said the scandal at the ministry of health is spearheaded by the opposition to water down development projects initiated by the Jubilee government.

The Deputy President said the opposition has been targeting Jubilee flagship projects with unsubstantiated corruption allegation

Cotu officials Benson Okwaro and Ernest Nadome at a past press conference. The workers union has threatened to sue the government over the Sh5 billion health scandal.

citing the Standard Gauge Railway, the digital literacy program, the Eurobond and now the free maternity program.

The development come as Health Cabinet Secretary Cleopa Mailu said yesterday that he will seek the services of another external auditor to re-look into the allegations since some of the figures in the leaked auditor report may have been repeated or doubled.

The Cabinet Secretary maintained that no money was lost in the Health Ministry,

Millions of fake currency intercepted at JKIA The Kenya Revenue Authority has intercepted fake currency worth over Sh267 million in bundles of Euros while concealed in trouser linings at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

The money was seized from Abdi Osman a Norwegian and Mohamed Hassan Eltahir ElHassan, a Sudanese on Thursday night. It is suspected that the money was being ferried to Dubai by Abdi Osman.

According to information from KRA, the money was found packed in two suitcases and concealed in trouser linings.

“The money was seized on Thursday (27th October) at around 10.30 pm., at Gate 7 JKIA during our shift operations, following intelligence that the two were suspects,” said Commissioner Customs and Border Control Julius Musyoka, “They were in 25 bundles of average 178 notes of 500 Euro bills.”

The passengers were travelling to Dubai aboard EK722 to United Arab Emirates (UAE).

According to the flight itinerary the two were to come back to Nairobi today before proceeding to Mogadishu, Somalia on Wednesday.

The exhibits are held at the customs warehouse awaiting issuance of seizure notice and subsequent handover to the police for investigations.

The Kenya Revenue Authority has tightened the noose over masterminds of illegal cargo at all border points countrywide.

The two are currently in police custody as police continue with investigations. @sam_x254

insisting that companies mentioned in the report supplied the goods as agreed.

Mailu pointed out that Estama Investments which was paid 800 million shillings for the supply of 100 mobile clinics according to the audit delivered the mobile clinics, 99 of which are still stored at a government yard in Mariakani. @sam_x254

South Sudan conflict haunts CS Amina’s AU candidature Kenya’s handling of the stabilization of South Sudan is among the key issues that now confront the candidature of Ambassador Amina Mohamed as the next head of the African Union (AU) Commission.

According to Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Monicah Juma, Amina’s competitors are challenging her candidature on the argument that Kenya has failed to foster peace in the troubled nation despite positioning herself as the regional kingpin.

But the PS has defended the Kenya’s position arguing that South Sudan is faced with an array of issues that remained unsolved from the onset of its independence.

“Many of those challenging our candidate claim that we have failed to foster peace in South Sudan adding that we may do very little to ensure stability in the continent. We have done our part including initiating talks that led to their independence,” Ambassador Juma said.

The PS however remained upbeat that her boss Amina will clinch the chair of the continent’s union body despite the opposition she faces adding that her credential and the president’s command in the region will work in her favour.

Ms Mohamed will face Agapito Mba Mokuy of Equatorial Guinea, Abdoulaye Bathily of Senegal and Botswana’s Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi.

Yesterday, Sudan promised to support ambassador Mohamed’s candidate following lobbying by President Uhuru Kenyatta who was on a two day state visit to Khartoum over the weekend.

The election of members of the AU Commission held in Kigali, Rwanda, in July 2016 was suspended because, after seven rounds of voting, none of the three contenders for the position of chairman obtained the required two-thirds majority. The post became vacant after the expiry of the term of South Africa’s Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma. @wilson_x254

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NEWS MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2016

FBI faulted as US election race tightens The Democratic leader in the US Senate says the head of the FBI may have broken the law by revealing the bureau was investigating emails possibly linked to Hillary Clinton.

Harry Reid accused FBI director James Comey of violating an act which bars officials from influencing an election.

News of the FBI inquiry comes less than two weeks before the US election.

The bureau has meanwhile obtained a warrant to search a cache of emails belonging to a top Clinton aide.

Emails from Huma Abedin are believed to have been found on the laptop of her estranged husband, former congressman Anthony Weiner.

There are reportedly 650,000 emails to search through, making it unlikely investigators can give a verdict on them before election day.

Mr Reid also accused Mr Comey of withholding “explosive information about close ties between Republican candidate Donald Trump, his top advisers, and the Russian government”.

“The public has a right to know about this information. I wrote to you months ago calling for this information to be released to the public,” Mr Reid said.

The FBI believes the emails might be “pertinent” to its previous inquiry into Mrs Clinton’s use of a private server when she was secretary of state in the Obama administration.

The case was closed in July without any charges being brought against Mrs Clinton.

Mr Weiner is subject to a separate investigation on suspicion of sending sexually explicit messages to an underage girl.

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump (left) and his Democratic rival Hillary Clinton. latest polls show they are in a tight race to succeed President Barack Obama. PHOTOS: EPA

In a letter, Mr Reid accused Mr Comey of practising double standards with the intention of helping one political party over another.

He said Mr Comey may have violated the Hatch Act, which bars officials from using their position to influence an election.

“Through your partisan actions, you may have broken the law,” he said.

Richard Painter, a professor at the University of Minnesota Law School and the chief White House ethics lawyer from 2005 to 2007, revealed on Sunday he had filed a complaint against the

FBI with the Office of Special Counsel, which investigates Hatch Act violations.

Writing in the New York Times he said: “I never thought that the FBI could be dragged into a political circus surrounding one of its investigations. Until this week.”

With the election due on 8 November, opinion polls showed Mrs Clinton’s lead against Mr Trump tightening even before the email controversy surfaced again.

An ABC News/Washington Post poll published on Sunday put Mrs Clinton just one percentage

point ahead.

Mrs Clinton has described Mr Comey’s actions as “unprecedented” and “deeply troubling”.

But Mr Trump has praised the FBI’s decision, accusing the Department of Justice of protecting Mrs Clinton in a “rigged system”.

“The Department of Justice is trying their hardest to protect the criminal activity of Hillary Clinton,” Mr Trump told a rally in Nevada.

It emerged on Sunday that the Department of Justice had urged the FBI not to inform Congress of the new inquiry so close to the election.

NCIC to monitor hate speech Italy struggles in quake aftermath in run up to 2017 elections The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has said hate speech and incitement to violence will be closely monitored as the country gears up for the 2017 general elections. The commission’s chairman Francis Ole Kaparo (pictured) said various state organs are coming up with watertight strategies to deal with the vice that has always threatened to tear the country apart.

“We won’t allow politicians to use hate speech to whip up ethnic tensions as was the case in previous elections, resulting to electoral violence,” Kaparo said.

He said peace monitors with tape recorders and video cameras will be deployed in all the 290 constituencies early next year to monitor hate speech and incitement to violence, as the country lays ground for

the polls.

“The video cameras we intend to procure are spy pen hidden camera video recorders that can relay images and audios in real time to NCIC head offices in Nairobi for effective monitoring of reckless talks that can fuel animosity among communities,” he disclosed.

He made the remarks in Mombasa over the weekend during deliberations by various stakeholders such as the NCIC, National Police Service Commission (NPSC), Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), Ministry of Information, Communications and Technology (ICT), Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNHCR) on how to effectively stem hate speech in the forthcoming election season.

Bahati MP Onesmus Ngunjiri and Nominated MP Johnstone Sakaja who are members of the Parliamentary Committee on Cohesion and Equal Opportunities have asked the NCIC to intensify its crackdown on hate mongers in the run up to next year’s general election. @hillary_x254 Francis Ole Kaparo, (NCIC) chairman.

Thousands of people in central Italy have spent the night in cars, tents and temporary shelters following the fourth earthquake in the area in three months. The 6.6-magnitude quake Italy’s strongest in decades - struck close to the region where nearly 300 people were killed by a quake in August.

This time no-one appears to have died in the quake near the town of Norcia, but about 20 people were injured. More than 100 aftershocks were registered overnight into Monday.

These included one with a magnitude of 4.2.

At least 15,000 people are estimated to be in temporary accommodation, including 4,000 who have retreated to shelters provided by the authorities on the Adriatic coast.

In Norcia, in the Umbria region, some locals have decided to stay in their homes, while others spent the night in tents pitched near the town or have left for the coast.

Prime Minister Matteo Renzi is chairing a cabinet meeting to discuss emergency reconstruction efforts. Norcia resident Stefano Boldrini, who is now living in a van with his eight-year-old daughter, was asked if they planned to stay in the area.

“How could we? There’s no more school, or church, or police station. There’s nothing here any more,” he said.

The medieval basilica of St Benedict in Norcia was among many historic buildings that were destroyed. An evacuation of vulnerable

buildings in central Italy last week, following strong aftershocks from August’s quake, may have saved lives. Officials said three people were dug out of the rubble alive in the town of Tolentino on Sunday.

Giuseppe Pezzanesi, mayor of Tolentino, said the small town had “suffered our blackest day yet”. “The damage is irreparable. There are thousands of people in the streets, terrified, crying,” he said. Sunday’s quake - 6.6 as measured by the US Geological Survey came on top of August’s quake and two last week of magnitude 5.5 and 6.1. Other towns and villages to have suffered damage include Castelsantangelo, Preci, Ussita and Arquata.

Tremors from the latest earthquake were felt in the capital Rome, where the metro system was shut down but is now reopening.

Some of the displaced people at a sports camp. PHOTO: EPA

NEWS 5

MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2016

Morning newspaper summaries Pressure for PS Muraguri Uhuru aiding graft barons, Corruption: Silent Uhuru to resign: HEALTH Principal Secretary says ODM: Eight ODM MPs have leaves fight to juniors:

Nicholas Muraguri, who is at the centre of the Sh5 billion “Mafya House” scandal, is under pressure from State House operatives to quit.

The sleaze, also linked to President Uhuru Kenyatta’s own relatives, has turned into a public relations nightmare for the First Family and the Jubilee government, just 10 months to the general election. The Star has established that top government officials have given Muraguri up to Friday to step aside – although the Head of State has remained tight-lipped.

accused President Uhuru Kenyatta of protecting perpetrators of corruption in his government.

Speaking separately, the legislators also asked Deputy President William Ruto to stop hoodwinking Kenyans over the Sh5.3 billion scandal at the Health Ministry, saying he had never made a commitment to end corruption. ODM chairman and Suba MP John Mbadi, Treasurer Timothy Bosire (Kitutu Masaba)among others) said the Jubilee government was on a looting spree under the President’s watch.

Opposition leaders pressed President Uhuru Kenyatta to break his six-day silence and speak out on the latest scandal to rock his administration which, at Sh5 billion, is billed the biggest to be pulled off under his watch. The President who was in Sudan yesterday left his subordinates to fight the mounting public outrage over the Sh5 billion ministry of Health scandal that has sucked in names of his closest relatives and shaken his administration.

on the dire state of girls’ education in seven counties. Progress in achieving gender parity in basic education remains uneven across Kenya with girls continuing to lag way behind boys in key performance indicators such as transition and completion rates as well as exam grades, a Nation Newsplex investigation reveals.

Executive Council yesterday met and adopted a report by its disciplinary committee to de-register eight out of the 13 rebel leaders. The meeting was also attended by party leader Raila Odinga.

Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya, Kisii County deputy governor Joash Maangi and Kwale Woman Representative Zainab Chidzuga have been axed from the party.

Does Peter Kenneth stand Most girls in 7 counties Raila party expels 8 ‘rebel’ a better chance in Murang’a will not sit exams: As the Kenya MPs: The ODM top organ meets today to cate of Primary Education (KCPE) ratify expulsion of eight governors and MPs governor race?: With only two Certifi exam starts tomorrow, alarms keep ringing deemed to have defected to Jubilee Party. National

candidates to face off, Murang’a residents believe former Gatanga MP Peter Kenneth stands a better chance to be governor if he runs in the county and not in Nairobi. Murang’a gives Kenneth the advantage of familiarity, a good track record when he was MP and an election field that is not too crowded. While Nairobi would be a good launch pad for a presidential bid, Murang’a would not offer him the same status.

KNCCI decries SA’s tough Sh5bn for campaign to Magoha: No Standard 8 visa rules: Difficulties by Kenyans in combat hunger: The government exam has been leaked: Kenya acquiring visa to South Africa is hindering trade between the two countries with the current provisions favouring the Southern state, the Kenyan business community has said. The Kenyan National Chamber of Commerce said Kenyans are still ensuring a tedious process in getting cleared to South Africa, as opposed to their counterparts who can get visa upon arrival at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi. KNCCI chairman Kiprono Kittony said Kenyans should be able to get visa’s upon arrival in South Africa.

has released Sh5 billion to deal with the drought currently being experienced in various parts of the country, Cabinet Secretary for Devolution and Planning Mwangi Kiunjuri has said. From the kitty, Sh1.2 billion will be used to buy livestock from the affected people, a process he said has already started. Mr Kiunjuri spoke when he accompanied the Parliamentary Committee on Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries on its first visit of Samburu County which is one of the counties affected by drought.

National Examinations Council (Knec) yesterday maintained there were no leaks in the KCPE exam. This follows reports that several papers of the exam set to kick off tomorrow are on sale in some parts of the country. Knec Chairman George Magoha while admitting that the council had received such complaints, allayed fears that the said papers were genuine. In one of the incidents, a teacher in Migori County was caught selling an English exam paper to a pupil of Rongo Primary School.

KRA sacks 35 officers for fraud, opens senior staff to graft probe: Kenya Revenue

Authority has in the past three years sacked 35 employees implicated in tax fraud, in a fresh corruption purge meant to plug leakages that cost the country billions of shillings in tax revenues. The taxman has also revealed that it handled a total of 148 cases involving “unethical conduct” between July 2013 and September this year. KRA said 23 other cases involving tax officials are ongoing in the courts.

Mailu defends Afya House contract given to Uhuru kin: Health secretary Cleopa Mailu has

defended the awarding of contracts reserved for marginalised groups to a company owned

by President Uhuru Kenyatta’s kin. Citing the affirmative action provided in the law, Dr Mailu said companies named in the Sh5 billion scandal have a right to do business with the government even as he sidestepped questions on their marginalisation status.

Bostwana’s Choppies to inject Sh755m into lossmaking Ukwala: Botswana

retailer Choppies is set to invest Sh754.7 million in loss-making Ukwala Supermarkets in which it acquired a 75 per cent stake earlier this year. The multinational retail chain says in its latest trading update that it will invest the cash to open 12 more stores in the local subsidiary over three years. The planned capital expenditure comes as Ukwala made a net loss of Sh270.1 million in the year ended June and is projected to remain in the red this year.

Top stories from X News global partners FBI gets search warrant Clinton Forges Slim Lead African countries are as agency head accused With Early Turnout in wrong to leave the ICC: AFRICA’S decision to stomp out of ‘partisan’ actions: The FBI Swing States: Hillary Clinton has SOUTH of the International Criminal Court is

has acquired a warrant to investigate emails found on the laptop of a former aide to Hillary Clinton as part of its investigation into the Democratic presidential nominee’s use of a private email server. The move came as senior Senate Democrats made an extraordinary attack on the head of the FBI, James Comey, on Sunday over the new investigation, with Senate minority leader Harry Reid warning he may have broken the law. In a scathing letter, Reid wrote: “Your actions in recent months have demonstrated a disturbing double standard for the treatment of sensitive information, with what appears to be a clear intent to aid one political party over another. www.theguardian.com

established a slim edge over Donald J. Trump in early-voter turnout in several vital swing states, pressing her longstanding advantages in statelevel organization and potentially mitigating the fallout from her campaign’s latest scrap with the F.B.I. Even as Democrats continued to reel from revived questions about Mrs. Clinton’s use of a private email server as secretary of state — a jolt delivered 11 days before the election in an abstruse letter from the F.B.I. director, James B. Comey — turnout tallies and interviews with dozens of early voters suggest that even a vintage “October surprise” may pack less of a punch than it once did. In a race between two deeply polarizing candidates, opinions appear to have been cemented weeks if not months ago for most voters. www.nytimes.com

deplorable. It is inconceivable that Nelson Mandela would have done such a thing.

Virtually all right-thinking liberals and lawyers in his country have condemned the move. In the name of standing up against the supposed anti-African bias of the court, South Africa has aligned itself with the autocrats of the continent and given succour to those who have committed appalling human-rights abuses. Its announcement on October 21st followed that of Burundi, which is under “preliminary examination” by the ICC for its president’s bloody suppression of dissent; the Gambia, another nasty regime, followed suit this week. It would be tragic if South Africa set in motion a domino effect. www.economist.com

Mark Carney stands ready to serve 8-year term at Bank of England:

Mark Carney, governor of the Bank of England, is ready to serve a full eightyear term, facing down Brexiter critics campaigning for him to resign ahead of time. Mr Carney has told friends that he is likely to make a statement on his future this week to put an end to damaging speculation. The governor is expected to confer with prime minister Theresa May and chancellor Philip Hammond before making a final “personal” decision, potentially ahead of the publication of the BoE’s inflation report.Financial markets, which have pummelled sterling since Britain voted to leave the EU in June, will be watching developments closely for signs of further political uncertainty. www.ft.com

To enquire about digital advertising with these international brands, email julian@x254.co

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NEWS MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2016

NEWS PICTORIAL LAND OWNERSHIP: Lands and Physical Planning Cabinet Secretary Prof. Jacob Kaimenyi (left) issues a title deed to a resident of Tinderet in Nandi County. A total of 2,237 title deeds to squatters in both Tinderet and Aldai constituencies in the area. The CS lamented that over 33,000 titles have not been collected by beneďŹ ciaries in the county and appealed to them to make arrangements to collect the titles saying they are genuine land documents.

COW WORSHIP:

Nepalese Hindu passes under a cow during the Gai Puja, also known as the Cow Worship Day, as part of the Tihar festival in Kathmandu, Nepal, today. The Tihar festival is the second most important event for Nepalese Hindus. During the celebration people worship cows, considered to be the incarnation of Lakshmi, Hindu goddess of wealth, fortune and prosperity.

PHOTO: NARENDRA SHRESTHA/EPA

PM ELECTIONS: Spanish acting Primer Minister Mariano Rajoy (R) acknowledges the applauses after being elected Prime Minister during the session of the investiture at the Lower House of the Spanish Parliament in Madrid, Spain, yesterday. Mr Rajoy, leader of the Popular Party, has been reappointed to his post after ten months of negotiations in parliament. PHOTO: CHEMA MOYA/EPA

REFERENDUM: President of the Ivory Coast, Alassane Ouattara casts his ballot in the referendum elections in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, yesterday. Voters went to the plebiscite to decide if they approve of the new constitution creating a senate and removing the nationality clause from the presidential requirements, also establishing a position for a Vice-President. PHOTO: LEGNAN KOULA/EPA

xnews | MONday, OCTOBER 31, 2016 | www.x254.co

BUSINESS

of Friday CBK EXCHANGE RATES (As October 28/2016)

Economic growth continues despite volatile global market

Kenya’s relatively strong economic performance is expected to continue into the medium term at a rate of 6 per cent in 2017, a report released this morning has confirmed.

The new report, dubbed ‘Kenya Economic Update (KEU): Beyond Resilience – Increasing Public Investment Efficiency’, indicates that the country’s economic performance has remained robust over the past eight years.

The analysis says the country’s positive forecast is driven by a vibrant services sector, enhanced construction, currency stability and low inflation, low fuel prices, a surge in remittances and a growing middle class characterized by rising incomes.

“I am happy to see Kenya’s economy demonstrate resilience in the face of regional and global economic slowdown,” said Diarietou Gaye, World Bank Country Director.

The World Bank said in a statement released this morning that overall, Kenya’s performance has outpaced the regional average for eight consecutive years, and the country remains a bright spot across Sub-Saharan Africa. Kenya experienced strong economic performance in 2015, and has exceeded the average growth for Sub-Saharan Africa countries consistently since 2009, the report notes.

This positive trend was reinforced by the latest World Bank Group’s Ease of Doing Business report where Kenya moved up to the 92nd spot compared to 113 in

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

BuSINESS DIARY Finance seminar at Villa Rosa Kempinski Ajira Management Development Program will host a seminar for Finance for Non-finance Managers & Directors at the Villa Rosa Kempinski Hotel in Nairobi on Thursday, November 3, 2016 and Friday, November 4, 2016. The forum will run from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The 2 day Seminar is designed to provide Directors and Managers who do not have Finance backgrounds with an understanding of critical financial management concepts and ideas necessary to enable them understand their organisations’ and departments’ financial issues.

Investors’ chat at 14 Riverside Drive

Mettā Nairobi, a club designed for people and organisations that are passionate about changing the world through entrepreneurship, will host a fireside chat to discuss what investors look for when investing in a start-up company.

The event, to be held on Friday, November 4, 2016 at 14 Riverside Drive, will run from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM. The affair will feature guest speakers, Sean Nowak and Munyutu Waigi. Nowak is a Principal at Kaizen Venture Partners, a Sub-Saharan Africa-focused private equity firm. Waigi is the co-founder and CEO of Umati Capital - a company that provides a suite of web and mobile applications to automate supply chain management.

agricultural growth, uncertainties around the 2017 elections that could unduly dampen investor confidence, to weaker than expected global demand which could subdue the country’s exports.

While Kenya is set for further mediumterm growth, the report recommends reforming the systemic weaknesses of the country’s Public Investment Management (PIM) system, to see stronger growth.

PIM is currently characterized by

low execution and cost escalation of infrastructure projects.

“There is also urgent need to streamline the process of land acquisition, compensation and resettlement which lead to significant delays and cost escalation in the design and execution of public infrastructure projects,” said Sheila Kamunyori, World Bank Urban Specialist and one of the co-authors of the report. @Dennis_x254

BUY SELL 101.2856 101.4800 123.7272 124.0000 110.4444 110.6811 7.2660 7.2846 34.0461 34.2102 21.4525 21.5924

Optiven targets entrepreneurs with greenhouse investment deal

Diarietou Gaye shakes hands with National Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich during the launch of the Kenya Economic Memorandum earlier this year. the previous year. Kenya is now among the top five economies in Sub-Saharan Africa where it is easiest to do business.

This improvement in the country’s business climate is largely due to the implementation of reforms to ease the process of doing business.

However, the KEU report notes that the country remains vulnerable to both external and domestic risks ranging from adverse weather that could curtail

MEAN 101.3828 123.8636 110.5628 7.2753 34.1282 21.5225

Optiven Limited, a real estate developer, has announced plans to empower entrepreneurs and green house farmers as the firm branches into the agriculture sector.

The relator has launched a programme dubbed ‘Kilimo Tujijenge’, which will provide investors with greenhouse and crop management plans which will enable them to track the progress of their farms through smart phones.

Optiven CEO George Wachiuri noted that large chunks of land remained underutilized in the country even as parts of the nation were faced food shortages.

“It’s a shame that Kenya is very productive yet our people in Baringo have no food,” Wachiuri observed.

“So as Optiven, we’re taking a role in providing food for our people,” he said during a recent address.

Wachiuri said the initiative The real estate entrepreneur who also bagged the 2015 Mashujaa Business and Entrepreneurship Award was quick to note that many investors have often left their parcels fallow as they continued to seek funds to develop their properties.

The Kilimo Tujijenge Initiative is now providing the investors with an opportunity to earn money even as they wait to embark on their projects.

“We have over 2,000 customers that have got land but they’re waiting for them to get financing to build. So even as they wait to build, it means that they can now earn money through agribusiness,” said Wachiuri.

Mumias Sugar posts Sh6 billion pre-tax loss as regional production levels fall Mumias Sugar Company Ltd has posted a pre-tax loss of Sh6.06 billion for the Financial Year ended June 2016 compared with a loss of Sh6.31 billion a year ago.

The sugar company reported revenue of Sh6.29 billion versus Sh5.53 billion a year ago.

The firm said in a statement released this morning that the financial year just ended and forecasts going forward were characterised by a continued decrease in Kenya’s sugar production. This is mainly due to cane shortage, as cane farmers in Western Kenya move to produce other crops ostensibly due to low returns from cane farming.

“Cane production in Kenya continues to be hampered by poor crop husbandry, low access to affordable inputs, poor transport infrastructure and delayed payments to farmers. Most of the state-owned sugar

mills are operating below capacity and are burdened by obsolete milling technology and huge debts leading to locally produced sugar remaining uncompetitive in the COMESA region mainly because of the high cost of production,” the miller said.

Mumias noted that COMESA safeguards had been extended for another 2 years and the Government of Kenya is in the initial stages of the anticipated sugar mills privatization program, which is expected to revitalise the sector.

“This will provide a better operating environment for execution of the turnaround strategy,” the company said in its statement.

During the financial year ended June 30, 2016 the company posted a loss after tax of Sh4.731million versus Sh4.645 million in 2015, representing a 2 per cent decline.

This loss was mainly attributable to an

acute shortage of quality cane particularly in the fourth quarter.

Following receipt of government bailout funds and limited factory maintenance undertaken in July and August 2015, the company operated relatively smoothly and was on course to realizing the planned cane diffusion targets, factory time efficiencies (FTE), sugar recoveries (Rendement) and all related financial targets.

However, the acute cane shortage experienced in quarter 4 saw the sugar production and recoveries heavily curtailed negating the benefits gained in the earlier quarters of the year. The cane shortage was largely due to widespread cane poaching.

The Company processed1.2 million metric tonnes of sugar cane which is 9.4 per cent higher than the previous year when it processed 1.1 metric tonnes. @Dennis_x254

8

BUSINESS

All smallholder farmers to have access to credit by 2020 - AERC MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2016

The African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) has announced plans to ensure that all smallholder farmers across the continent have access to loans by the year 2020. The move follows a recent analysis by the African Development Bank (AfDB), which projects that the continent will be spending close to $100 billion (Sh10 trillion) by the year 2025 on food imports. The shortage of food, not only in Kenya, but across the continent, is skyrocketing due to an increasing population. The World Bank projects that Africa will have over 2 billion people by the year 2030. Speaking during the ongoing Economic Opportunity for a Better Future summit seeking to leverage Agriculture, Innovation and Financial Inclusivity, Central BNK OF Kenya Deputy Governor, Sheila M’Mbijjewe said that the move comes at a time when farmers’ access to credit is diminishing.

“Transition to stable agriculture production comes with the need for more financial inclusion and appropriate provision in both amounts as finances facilitate necessity of transition,” she said.

She argued that the private sector has lost

Central Bank of Kenya Deputy Governor Sheila M’Mbijjiwe with Proelemma Senbet, AERC Director addressing the media in Nairobi today. Photo By:Edwin/X-news confidence in investing in agriculture.

She encouraged all small scale farmers to seek financial assistance.

“It is painful to hear that only 78 per cent

of Kenyans in agriculture agencies have access to finance,” the Deputy Governor said.

Speaking at the same conference, PTA

Kenya Power on track to connect every consumer to grid by 2020 The number of customers currently being connected to the national electricity grid is growing by an average rate of 30 per cent a year, energy distributor, Kenya Power has confirmed. In line with these advances, the government has stated that it was well within its target of connecting every consumer to the grid by the year 2020.

These developments come just as Kenya Power recently reported a full-year net pre-tax profit of Sh12.083 billion, slipping 1.4 per cent on the back of rising costs linked to its growing transmission network.

The firm’s transmission and distribution expenditure rose by 18.3 per cent to 28.651 billion. Kenya Power said the company’s bigger network added to operational expenses.

The company, which is the sole electricity distribution firm in Kenya, said the customer growth rate in a nation where many do not have mains power was 30 per cent a year.

It said electricity sales grew 3.6 percent to 7.385 billion units in the financial year that ended June 30.

“We anticipate continued growth in electricity demand catalysed by the increased economic activities and improved business environment as our power supply network expands,” the company added.

The distributor’s announcement

comes barely a week after the East Africa Data Centre (EADC) launched a new dedicated $5 million (Sh507 million) Kenya Power substation, as the organisaton moves to bank on renewable energy.

“As the growth and power hungry nature of data centres has moved into the public eye, there has been an increasing focus on data centres sourcing energy from renewable energy sources, so that they are not contributing to global warming,” said EADC CEO, Dan Kwach.

“This has seen the world’s data centres required, increasingly, to demonstrate their green credentials to win international clients,” he added.

With two-thirds of Kenya’s electricity now generated from renewable sources,

the country has moved into a leading position in clean power, compared with other African nations and global energy mixes. This has seen EADC move up the ‘green ladder’ as a green data centre, powered by a higher proportion of renewable energy than other data centres in Africa, and making it more appealing for environmentally conscious multinationals.

“For EADC, the move to secure 97 per cent availability of Kenya Power’s unusually green electricity has now positioned the data centre as an exceptionally sustainable option, offering it a competitive advantage over data centres elsewhere in Africa,” said Mr Kwach.

Bank CEO, Admasu Tedesse reiterated that the cost of importing food is growing at a steady rate, putting morepressure on banks. @enock_x254

PKF CEO elected new chair of International Board in Africa PKF Eastern Africa CEO, Atul Shah has been appointed Chairman of PKF International Board in Africa.

Subsequently, Mr. Shah has also been appointed to the Board of Directors of PKF International. Commenting on his appointment, Atul said: “I am delighted to have been appointed to this prestigious role as the chairman of PKF International Board in Africa. This will give me the opportunity to offer strategic leadership and business insight focused on increasing quality service and enhancing PKF brand and reputation across Africa and in our worldwide network.”

Atul was elected during the PKF International Africa Conference held in Ghana. PKF, an international accountancy and business advisory firm, has a presence in 25 countries in Africa.

Prior to his appointment, Atul has been a lead engagement partner in corporate finance assignments including advising on acquisition strategies, due diligence reviews, restructuring, public and private share issues and placements. He has also been involved in Government ministries and state audits for the Government of South Sudan under support to the Audit Chamber. @kevin_x254

Siginon Aviation registers growth in air cargo, relocates head office to Nairobi Logistics firm, Siginon Group plans to relocate its head office to Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) facilities next year as part of its strategy to move closer to customers and grow its business in the region. This follows the firm’s Aviation arm registering strong business performance as it hopes to leverage on its latest storage facility with an in built perishable center and 2.000 square metre of cold room floor space to spur business growth. Siginon Aviation is one of the four air cargo terminals at JKIA and recently opened its operations in a new $10 million (Sh1 billion) air cargo terminal at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, in addition to its operations at the Eldoret International Airport. The terminal handles a number of cargo airlines notably, Cargolux, Singapore Cargo (SIACARGO), Cargologic, Safari Express among others.

As Kenya strengthens its position as East Africa’s business hub, the imports and exports business has been on a steady growth trajectory in cargo volumes, particularly in export of perishables as well as vehicles and general cargo imports leading to the company’s repositioning.

At the center of this logistics operation, the critical role played by clearing agents takes a centre stage. This has, in turn, driven Siginon Aviation an air cargo terminal based at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to hold forums with these agents to deliberate on the opportunities that are occasioned by the growth of the air cargo business.

Addressing the agents during a breakfast

meeting, Siginon Aviation Divisional Manager Jared Oswago said there was need to work closely with custom agents to enable them explore the opportunities available to enhance fast and efficient cargo clearance along the various routes arising from increasing regional and international airlines contracted by the Aviation firm as well as familiarizing them with available facilities at new air cargo terminal.

“Clearing agents have a critical role in facilitating cargo movement into and out of the country. As an air cargo terminal, we must ensure that both our objectives are aligned for business and economic growth in Kenya,” Oswago added.

On his part, Siginon Group Finance Director, Paul Maiyo said the logistics firm is in the business of delivering peace of mind to all customers and providing business partners with opportunities to grow.

The logistics industry further received a boost with the government launching the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR). The SGR is projected to further boost the capacity of cargo handled through the port of Mombasa and facilitate faster and cheaper cargo movement. “We are excited about the SGR developments and we are certain that once fully completed, it will boost our service delivery. Once completed and full functioning we will recommend the SGR as an additional freight mode of our air freight and sea freight customers,” Maiyo added. @kevin_x254

BUSINESS 9

MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2016

Safaricom Ltd calls for meaningful partnerships to spur economic growth Kenya’s telecommunications power house, Safaricom has called for partnerships that will ensure economic growth. The company has reached more than four million Kenyans through programs aimed at alleviating poverty, extending quality education to nomadic communities, increasing access to maternal health care and improving access to clean water. Speaking during the Safaricom Foundation and MPESA Foundation partners’ forum in Nairobi, Safaricom CEO Bob Collymore says the extensive reach has been attained through partnerships with more than 1,000 organisations over a span of 13 years. The partners include several county governments, and nongovernmental organsiations such as PharmAccess, Amref, Action Aid, the Aga Khan Foundation, Huru, Meru School for the Mentally Handicapped, Women Challenged to Challenge among others. Among the projects include distribution of water in Makueni which is to reach 18,000 people and the rehabilitation of Nyalani Dam to contribute to reduced vulnerability to drought for 2,500 direct and 10,000 indirect beneficiaries in Kwale. Safaricom Foundation has also recently partnered with Shining Hope for Communities in a project that

therise

Kenya Airways Ltd Kenya Airways Ltd was the week’s top gainer for the second consecutive week after edging upwards by 16.8 per cent during the period under review. The share price was up to Sh6.60 from the previous week’s close of Sh5.65.

The airline reported an improved loss per share of Sh3.20 from a loss per share of Sh7.99 under the same period last year. Year-to-date, its share price has gained by 34.7 per cent.

thefall

Deacons East Africa

Deacons (East Africa) Plc was this week’s top laggard after declining by 13.5 per cent over the course of the week’s trading.

The shares closed at a price of Sh5.45 from their previous closing price of Sh6.30. The share edged downwards on local investor selling. Year-to-date, its share price has shed 63.7 per cent.

Analysis by Amana Capital info@ amanacapital.co.ke

aims to scale up the provision of clean and accessible water to 84,000 people in Kibera, which is expected to bring down the cost of a jerry can by 60 per cent. “Whenever the word development is mentioned it conjures different images in the mind of the listener. And for the

people who benefit thorough our partnerships, development means supporting them improve their lives at the micro level, where it matters most to them and the communities they live in,” said Collymore.

“It means improving their livelihoods by alleviating hunger

and poverty and giving them a means of regaining their dignity and in some instances their selfesteem,” he added. Collymore urged partners to provide both financial and material support to ensure attainment of quality impact. “We believe that when Kenyans have both

the ability to succeed and advance economically and the power to make and act on economic decisions that lift them out of poverty, their lives will be positively transformed,” Safaricom Foundation chairman Joseph Ogutu said. @kevin_x254

MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2016

ACCESS

12

MY MOTHER DIED WHEN I WAS 16 YEARS OLD AND THIS HAS PROPELLED ME TAKE MY MUSIC MORE SERIOUSLY. John Mwangi Kinyanjui aka Dash Johnte is an upcoming emcee who is a part of the Dandora Hiphop City collective that seeks to bring a ‘sense of belonging to anyone who wants to be equipped, grow and network in the Arts, Tech & Entrepreneurship’. The budding rapper tells of his tragic past and bright new future. @christine_x254

Tell us about yourself

My real name is John Mwangi Kinyanjui, I was born in Nairobi some years ago and I’m a musician involved in inspirational hip-hop songs. Music is my first love although I’m a huge fan of football and I enjoy literature in my free time. I’m a social person and I like to communicate with people. Getting to know new interesting individuals is important because I believe that friendship is one of the most valuable things in human life. I also love my time at Dandora Hiphop City.

How did you get your start in the industry?

My mother died when I was 16 years old and this has propelled me take my music more seriously. I started doing music when I was 9 years old in 2007 during the election period. I wrote my first song known as ‘WAKATI’ wherein I was asking God to

stop the Post-Election Violence. I remember my mother having a hard time just getting outside of the house because of the crisis. I only really began singing after the PEV had ended but loved to listen to Eminem’s music and dreamt of one day becoming a rapper. After meeting a few friends along the way I got the confidence to start writing lyrics.

What would you say is the message of your music?

Since I make inspirational hip-hop my music mostly deals with that but also educating the public is a priority in my songs.

What inspires you?

The rapper Eminem is my biggest inspiration. Lyrically his flow is unmatched and I feel that his story is also very inspiring to an upcoming artiste.

What are you working on currently?

My vision is on a new album. This will also serve as my debut so I’m in the process of composing new music. The content deals mostly with my life and the journey that I’ve been through.

Are there any artistes, both established and new, that you would love to work with?

Yes of course. In the long run I would love to work with my biggest inspiration, Eminem.

Do you ever listen to your own music on your playlists?

Yes I do listen to music but mostly to edit. I listen with an aim of changing what doesn’t work and adding new ideas to the music.

Which event/stage would you just love to perform?

I would love the opportunity to be on Coke Studio because I once participated in the show and I really enjoyed the experience so that is what I have my eyes set on.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I would love to be a well-known artiste, all over the world.

aka Dash Johnte

ACCESS

MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2016

FAST FOOD RESTAURANTS DO AN EXCELLENT JOB OF MAKING YOU BELIEVE THAT THEIR SALADS ARE LOW-CALORIE

REVEIEW OF THE WEEK’S EVENTS

HOT TOPICS

Nonini gives Didge a comeback in ‘Tudunde’

A

fter quite a long break, RnB vocalist Didge is back in the music scene in the just released Brand new Video dubbed “TUDUNDE” featuring rap artiste Nonini. ‘Tudunde’ is from the Album (MgengeTrue) and is a follow up of the classic track Genge Love which was all about the ladies. This time round instead of a lady vocalist he blends with the king of Swahili R&B Didge Soul who describes his style as “Real realness” in any situation. It is life in poetry, soul and colors - saying what you mean and meaning what you say…” The vocal prowess on this new track called ‘Tudunde’ just goes to show that Didge still has the vocals and is on top of his game.

DIDGE

Some of the looks of the day.

A guest getting her face painted.

NIGHT DANCERS

failure caused by rain in Malawi this past weekend to watch the rains that damaged the stage and the music system making it impossible for him to perform. Diamond had to wait patiently for

@kevin_x254

“Despite the fact that it rained and spoiled the whole stage and sound system but you guys decided to wait for me from the Night till Morning…. performance at 06am, trust me MALAWI Das Made me love you more than you think.

I love you so much…..thanks a lot for your Love to buy” Diamond commented. To the surprise of many, fans patiently waited as everything was showing support and love for the artiste.

Fans brave rain, system failure in epic concert

makes Halloween Groovy

Marushka of Cosmic Homies on stage.

Alchemist Bar last Saturday. the alternative and progressive music that is steadily taking root in Nairobi. Here are some of the highlights from the night.

Akothee celebrates international awards with ‘Millionaires’ pole dance

A guest cutting a rug.

Fresh from winning two international awards, Kenya’s most talked about female songstress, Akothee jetted into the country from the US and hosted celebrities, members o f the fourth estate and industry stakeholders to a cocktail at a city hotel to celebrate her wins.

Akothee won the Best Female Artiste in East Africa at the AFRIMMA and the Best Female in the just concluded African Entertainment Awards USA. Me’ hitmaker later Saturday night, treated patrons at the XS Millionaires club to a rare heated performance that was nothing short of a show of might and mastery in pole dancing. Known for her great dance moves, Akothee set the record straight adding ‘pole dancing’ to her list of great dance moves as she performed her hit songs on stage solo amidst cheers.

SA’s Toya Delazy on stage.

Tetu Shani playing the guitar.

Janice Iche and The Movement.

Scenes from the dancefloor.

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12

ACCESS

ACCESS

MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2016

BEST HALLOWEEN LOOKS SO FAR

Halloween is the one time of year when it’s okay to reveal that wild, alter-ego usually kept under wraps.

While the tradition is yet to take firm root locally, the world abroad is in a frenzy as they mark Halloween today. In the trick or treat spirit, Here is a teaser of costumes donned over the weekend even as we wait to see who our Halloween favorites show up to parties as.

@christine_x254

AVRIL

YULE DAME

It’s hard to hate on an inspirational anthem and ‘Yule Dame’ hold its own on that front. Avril is back and all is well in the world. As she explains in the video ‘A song that speaks to the strength of a woman; a special tribute to every superwoman out there rising above, time and time again.’ Written by TPF finalist Amileena and produced by Dj Space for MOB Studios the song celebrates women from all walks of life who are making ends meet with a beautifully shot video.

IROMO This song is pretty straightforward.

Sudi Boy and Timmy Tdat fight over a beautiful lass as she displays characteristic wishy-washiness and loses both of them in the end. As they sing praises of the girl, although they have two very different styles, in this collaboration it strangely works. The song’s production done by Teddy B is its strong suit. It has an oddly efficient beat that they both play off.

SUDI BOY & TIMMY TDAT

This clear diss record intended to put fellow femcee Njeri in her place ‘Pilau Njeri’ does have a couple of hard hitting punchlines buried deep within the, at times clunky, flow ‘Trash music, Njeri wewe bado hatupei no mind, hiyo jina ndo hatupendi’. But that can be overlooked because of her pure ferociousness in the video. She clearly had a message to put out there, which might explain the overly simplistic video. Noti Flow and Kush Tracey also get an honorable mention in the song.

We are waiting to see how this rap beef develops.

FEMI ONE

CLASSIFIED 13

MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2016

S m i u i w t Party S e h T

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WEATHERFORECAST SUNNY

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26ºC 43%

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MORE SUN THAN CLOUDS

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WEDNESDAY

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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.

Friday’s Solution

SUDOKU

MONDAY 31/10/2016

14

SPORT

Gor delay Tusker coronation as City Stars are relegated MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2016

Gor Mahia delayed rivals Tusker FC confirmation as new league champions and instead revived their hopes of retaining the Kenyan Premier League title for a fourth year in a raw after beating Mathare United 2-1 in the Sportpesa Premier League while City Stars were relegated after losing 3-1 to Kakameg Homeboyz.

Tusker had opened a 7-point lead at the summit of the league with a hard fought 1-0 win over Sony Sugar in Awendo on Saturday.

But the win at the Moi International Sports Center Kasarani last evening saw K’Ogalo cut Tusker’s lead at the top to four points as they sit second on 51 points with only two games remaining before the season wraps up.

Francis Kahata netted a beauty to open the scores in the 20th minute before Rwandese Jacques Tuyisenge nodded the second in the 59th minute and ensure Tusker are not crowned champions.

Chrispinus Oduor clawed one back for Mathare United in the 81st minute but it was too late to salvage the situation.

“It was a good match because both teams tried to score. We have to continue this way, put pressure on Tusker until the last match. I’m for Tuyisenge who scored a goal today after a long time,” Gor head coach Jose ‘Marcelo’ Zemaria said after the match.

His opposite number Francis Kimanzi blamed poor defence for their loss but was happy with the way his charges played.

Balotelli strikes again as Nice move six clear in Ligue 1

Gor Mahia players mob goal scorer Francis Kahata in celebration after the midfielder scored the team’s first goal in their 2-1 win over Mathare United last evening. PHOTO: CAPITAL FM

“Gor were better because we gave them two easy goals. We could have done better as a team to defend but it is over now. We lost yet again six points to them which means we have another homework to do next season,” Kimanzi, who lifted the KPL title with Mathare in 2008 stated.

In another development in the league, City Stars have been

relegated from the top tier league after falling 3-1 to visiting Kakamega Homeboyz at the Moi International Sports Center Kasarani on Sunday.

A demoralized City Stars, who have survived the chop in the past three consecutive seasons, conceded two goals in the opening half through David Okoth and Hedmond Mauda before Ali Bai

Nigeria recalls Olympic Star Etebo Nigeria manager Gernot Rohr has named Oghenekaro Etebo in his 24-man squad for next month’s 2018 World Cup qualifier against Algeria in Uyo. Etebo, who plays for CD Feirense in Portugal, scored four goals to help Nigeria clinch bronze at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

“I am delighted to be recalled and I hope to give my best to the country as always,” Etebo told BBC Sport following his first call-up under the new national manager.

Premier League duo Victor Moses and Odion Ighalo are also included.

Chelsea’s Moses is back to full fitness, and Watford

striker Ighalo returns having been excused from the Zambia game to bury his father.

There are recalls for midfielder John Ogu, goalkeeper Dele Alampasu and Germany-based defender Leon Balogun.

The only uncapped player in the squad is little known defender Tyronne Ebuehi from Dutch club ADO Den Haag.

FC IfeanyiUbah goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa is the only player from the Nigeria premier league picked as the competition is on a break.

Three-time African champions Nigeria are top of Group B in their qualifying race for Russia after a hard-fought 2-1 win in Zambia.

sealed the win in the second half.

Pa Jassey Mulie drove home a long range cracker to find a consolation for City Stars in the 81st minute.

With only two matches remaining before the end of the season, City Stars remain rooted at the bottom of the log on 18 points, seven adrift of Ushuru who are on the safety zone.

MORE ON THIS STORY www.capitalfm.co.ke

Mario Balotelli continued his career revival in France with another goal as Nice beat Nantes to move six points clear at the top of Ligue 1. The Italian, who has scored seven goals in his first seven Nice games, latched on to Jean Michael Seri’s pass over the top to slot home their second goal.

The ex-Liverpool striker had a hand in the opener, Wylan Cyprien scoring after Balotelli was tackled.

Emiliano Sala pulled one back but Alassane Plea and Cyprien sealed it. Balotelli has scored six goals in his first five games in the French league, having managed only two league goals in the previous two seasons for Liverpool, who let the 26-year-old leave for free on transfer deadline day, and AC Milan.

Nice, who have not won the league since 1959, are unbeaten in their opening 11 Ligue 1 games since the summer appointment of Lucien Favre. They are six points above rivals Monaco and third-placed Paris St-Germain.

Roma lose ground in Serie A, Inter beaten again Roma are now four points behind Serie A leaders Juventus after a goalless draw at lowly Empoli.

Empoli, who have scored two goals in 11 league games this season, frustrated the visitors, who had Mohamed Salah booked for diving in injury time when his shirt had been pulled.

AC Milan moved up to third behind Roma with a 1-0 win over Pescara, Giacomo Bonaventura scoring the only goal while Crotone picked up their first ever Serie A win as they beat Chievo 2-0.

Lazio beat Sassuolo 2-1, and Atalanta earned a 3-0 win over Genoa in Sunday afternoon’s other Italian top-flight games.

In the evening match, Inter Milan suffered a fourth defeat in five Serie A games as they were beaten 1-0 at Sampdoria.

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Lukaku scores in Everton win over Hammers MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2016

Everton ended a sequence of five matches without a win with a scrappy victory against a West Ham side who remain close to the relegation zone.

Romelu Lukaku put Everton ahead, heading home from close range for his seventh Premier League goal against the Hammers.

Everton improved as the match progressed and Ross Barkley, under scrutiny this season for some inconsistent performances, capped a fine display with a half-volley that secured the points for the hosts.

West Ham, who had been unbeaten in October, had chances and were the better side in the first half but were left to rue Angelo Ogbonna’s miss, which could have given the visitors the lead.

Despite their recent revival, the Hammers were aiming for a third consecutive league victory, Slaven Bilic’s men remain just three points above the relegation places as they continue to pay the price for four straight losses at the start of the season.

Before the game, Everton manager Ronald Koeman said his offensive players had to improve and provide greater support to top scorer Lukaku.

The Dutchman knows his team’s weakness, but there were signs in this match that £25m summer signing

Yannick Bolasie and Barkley especially can become the consistent threats he craves.

The Toffees’ attackers made little impression in the first half and the hosts had just one shot on target - a rasping, deflected Barkley effort which was saved fabulously by Adrian.

But Everton were more adventurous after the break, with Lukaku, Bolasie and Barkley the bright lights as they put West Ham on the back foot.

Winger Bolasie, criticised for not making an impact since his move from Crystal Palace, was key to the opener.

Adrian could only push Seamus Coleman’s low drive a few yards away from goal and it was the DR Congo international who reacted quickest to scoop the ball across for Lukaku, who headed home unchallenged from close range.

“It’s a good win - a deserved win. We played well in the second half,” Koeman said.

Barkley, who has been dropped this season, became a greater influence in the second half and the midfielder made a difficult finish look easy for Everton’s second.

“That’s how he needs to play. He worked very hard, he was running, and that’s what you need to do. He had some

Everton players Yanick Bolassie, Romelo Lukaku and Kevis Mirallas celebrate after Lukaku scored their opening goal against West Ham at Goodison Park yesterday.

PHOTO/EPA

shots on target, scored the second goal, and that’s what we want to see from midfield,” his manager said of him.

West Ham began with the confidence of a team who have collected seven points from their past three league games and progressed to the quarter-finals of the

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EFL Cup. In the first half, Dimitri Payet was the game’s creative force and the French playmaker was supported by the lively Manuel Lanzini, with Michail Antonio adding muscle up front.

Payet was involved in the moves that

led to six of West Ham’s seven shots in the opening 45 minutes and Ogbonna squandered a wonderful opportunity to put his team ahead after being put through by the 29-year-old.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2016

NIGERIA RECALL OLYMPIC STAR ETEBO TO WORLD CUP QUALIFYING SQUAD

Bale surpasses Ronaldo with new Real contract

Wales forward Gareth Bale has extended his contract with Spanish giants Real Madrid until 2022. The 27-year-old arrived at the Bernabeu from Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur on a six-year deal in 2013 for a then world record fee of £85m. He has helped Real win five trophies in the past three seasons, including the Champions League twice, and scored 62 goals in 135 appearances. Midfielders Luka Modric and Toni Kroos have also signed new deals this month.

Bale’s contract is reportedly worth £600,000 per week, £350,000 after tax, more than teammate Cristiano Ronald’s current wage of £290,000.

The former Southampton player, who has formed an impressive attacking partnership with Ronaldo and France striker Karim Benzema, is due to speak to the media later today.

He scored the crucial second goal as Real ended a 12-year wait for their 10th European Cup with a 4-1 victory against Atletico Madrid in his debut season. That came after his stunning solo goal clinched victory in the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona in the previous month.

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Chelsea forward Eden Hazard celebrates after scoring against Southampton yesterday. PHOTO/EPA

Chelsea keep pace

C Lukaku scores in Everton win

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Gor delay Tusker FC coronation

helsea kept pace with the leading pack in the Premier League as they moved into fourth place with an impressive win at Southampton.

The Blues took the lead when Eden Hazard capitalised on poor marking before cutting inside Steven Davis and powering a shot through the legs of keeper Fraser Forster.

Southampton had plenty of the ball but could not find a way through a well-drilled Chelsea, who looked the more threatening and went close when strikes from Hazard and Diego Costa were saved.

Costa, however, beat Forster at full stretch with a wonderful curled effort from 22 yards.

Victory was Chelsea’s fourth in a row in the league - a feat they last achieved in April 2015, and put them one point behind Manchester City, Arsenal and Liverpool.

Eden Hazard who struggled last season, managing just four goals and rarely showing the pace and trickery that had made him a threat in the previous campaign, is writing a different story. He has already scored five goals and looks like he has regained the confidence to tease and

torment defenders. He showed skill and power with his goal at St Mary’s, scoring in three consecutive Premier League games for the first time, then provided the pass from which Costa added Chelsea’s second.

Chelsea were exposed defensively in consecutive league defeats by Liverpool and Arsenal this season but, since then, they have kept four clean sheets and scored 11 goals.

Manager Antonio Conte’s move to a formation with three centre-backs is helping his side look more secure at the back and threatening in attack.

“We knew today was a test against a strong side in good shape and form. It’s important to win games like this - people can increase their confidence and will to work and trust in the work. We created many chances. It’s the perfect game when strikers score and defenders don’t concede. The players deserved this; they work hard in training,” he said.

The Italian also appears to have implemented the sort of defending for which his country is famous, as an organised Chelsea denied Southampton’s players any space in or around the penalty area and closed them down with aggression throughout.

“We’ve worked hard in training,” said Chelsea defender Gary Cahill. “We’ve worked hard on the shape that the manager has brought and we are getting the rewards.

“It’s OK having the shape but it’s about having the mentality of the players to go out and dig in and do the business when you need to.”

Southampton, whose most recent defeat at home in the league came against Chelsea in February, again had little answer to the Blues.

Saints had 55 shots on target this season before the game, but could muster only one on Sunday despite enjoying 55% of possession.

Their sole effort was Dusan Tadic’s low effort, which was comfortably palmed wide by keeper Thibaut Courtois. Southampton’s chances were fleeting and, when they did come, striker Charlie Austin put one header wide and another high.

“We played very well in the first half with so many possibilities and good play. But it’s difficult to play against this team when you concede a goal after a few minutes. They can play their game with a strong defence and counter-attack,” manager Claude Puel observed.

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