201601102 xnews

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2016 | WWW.X254.CO

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HOW KABURA AVOIDED TAXMAN WITH NYS MILLIONS CONTROVERSIAL BUSINESSWOMAN TELLS MPS PANEL THAT SHE HAD CONNECTIONS IN GOVERNMENT THAT HEKLPED HER AVOID THE KENYA REVENUE AUTHORITY

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NEWS

OZIL SCORES BEAUTIFUL LATE GOAL TO PROPEL ARSENAL INTO CHAMPIONS LEAGUE LAST 16

RANIERI URGES LEICESTER TO WRITE A NEW CHAPTER IN THEIR CHAMPIONS LEAGUE HOSTORY

Fears of repeat chaos as Jubilee, Cord tussle A Cord leaders Kalonzo Musyoka, Raila Odinga and Moses Wetangula when they held a rally at Uhuru Park during the Jamhuri Day celebrations.

majority of Kenyans are afraid that the country may be plunged into post-election violence after the August 2017 General Election as the political heist between the rival coalitions continues to grow.

In a poll conducted by Twaweza East Africa, 70 per cent of Kenyans have observed that the mounting political contention between Jubilee and Cord coalitions may spill into violence if left unchecked by the political elite and the relevant state agencies. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

President Uhuru Kenyatta and his Deputy William Ruto when they launched the Jubilee party in September.

ODM rebels fight to save seats

UN chief sacks Kenyan commander

Budalang’i MP Ababu Namwamba is among the rebels expelled

Lt Gen Johnson Mogoa Kimani Ondieki who was sacked as head of UN force in South Sudan

Rebel politicians who secured their seat through the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) are now bracing themselves for a titanic legal face off with the party as they fight to avoid byelections in their areas after the party expelled them.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has sacked the commander of the UN force in South Sudan, Lt Gen Johnson Mogoa Kimani Ondieki, after a report said it had failed to protect civilians in July.

The report backed claims by aid workers that the UN troops refused to respond when government soldiers attacked an international aid compound in Juba.

In the fighting between the army and former rebels, a local journalist was killed and aid workers were raped.

The clashes derailed efforts to form a unity government and end the civil war.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

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NEWS

Report: Kenyans in fear of a repeat of chaos WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 2, 2016

From Page 1

Nearly half of the electorate are very afraid of the possibility of violence and are already planning to leave the infamous violence hotspots that witnessed chaos after the 2007 elections.

On insecurity, the survey conducted between August 15 and September 6, 2016 also indicates that 60 per cent Kenyans believe that the police themselves are the main reason why citizens don’t report crime cases.

21 per cent of them said they feared being asked for a bribe by the authorities while another 16 per cent argued that police officers do not listen. A further 11 per cent said police are reluctant to act while another group noted that police are also themselves involved in crime.

While four out of ten citizens (38%) feel that in the last three months, there has been an improvement in the security situation in their respective areas, a slightly larger proportion (44%) feel that the security situation in their locality has remained the same, while 18% think it has deteriorated.

Twaweza Advocacy Manager Brezhnez Otieno maintained that despite the improved security in the country, a majority of the citizens especially in urban centres feel that they are prone to poll violence and terrorist

attacks.

“There are differences between actual instances of crime and people’s fears of insecurity or political violence. But perceptions matter. A sense of fear is not a healthy start to Kenya’s electoral period. And the worrying lack of confidence in the police by a majority of citizens further heightens the problem,” Mr Otieno said.

He added: “As we approach August 2017, there is a need for public confidence in the electoral system and state mechanisms for law and order. Responsible authorities need to ensure trust in the country’s electoral bodies and instill confidence in law enforcement before and beyond the 2017 elections.”

In a similar survey report released by the Independent Medico-Legal Unit (IMLU) last week, 61 per cent of Kenyans singled out the Regular Police as the most dangerous law enforcement agency while 14 per cent quoted the Administration Police, five per cent indicated the Kenya Defence Forces while another four per cent said that they had been tortured by the county government officers.

The charged atmosphere witnessed earlier in 2016 during the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) protests have raise concerns about the possibility that violence could be sparked off by the elections. @wilson_x254

Kenyans follow the proceedings at a past political rally at Uhuru park grounds in Nairobi. A new survey shows that a majority of the citizens fear the escalated attacks by political rivals could degenerate into chaos next year.

ODM rebels in fight to save their seats

From Page 1

Kwale Governor Salim Mvurya is among those the Orange party has expelled.

At least ten politicians who include one Governor, one deputy governor, 7 MPs and one Member of County Assembly have been expelled by the party and are now at risk of being subjected to by-elections after the ODM National Governing Council on Monday voted in favour of the move.

Similarly, the party has communicated the decision to the Registrar of Political Parties who might write to the speakers of the National Assembly and the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) over the same.

But the rebels have challenged the party’s decision.

Through their lawyer Kioko Kilukumi, the politicians want ODM to convene a special governing council meeting to hear their case afresh, terming the council’s verdict as unconstitutional, unfair and malicious.

Mr Kioko Kilukumi said yesterday that he will be capitalising on appellate provision of the ODM party to appealing the decision to expel his clients.

As such, he is basing his demand on that clause to demand for a convention of a special National Governing council to decide their fate.

“Any member suspended or expelled shall have a right of appeal to a special session of the NGC.

It shall have the power to review the facts and its decision on party disciplinary matters shall be final,” the ODM party constitution states.

Kilukumi argues that it would be efforts in futility if the rebels’ members’ names were to be removed from the party register without exhausting the party appellate avenue which is the special NGC. However, the Raila Odinga led party has since communicated the National Governing council decision to expel the rebel members to the Registrar of Political Parties Ms Lucy Ndung’u and directed her to expunge their names from the registrar.

In a letter written by ODM Executive Director Oduor Ong’wen and addressed to the registrar and copied to the Speakers of the Senate, National Assembly and Nairobi County assembly Speaker Alex Ole Magelo, ODM wants the seats occupied by the rebel members declared vacant to pave way for by elections.

The letter has also been copied to Independent Electoral and Boundaries commission (IEBC) Chief Executive Officer Ezra Chiloba for further action.

In an interview yesterday, the registrar of political parties, Ms Lucy Ndung’u, says she is duty bound to remove their names from the ODM register unless there is a court order barring her or an active appeal of their

expulsion.

However, Kilokumi says that if his clients are denied the chance to be listened to by the party once more, then they will take the case to the court.

In their arguments, the rebels say that their political rights and freedom of association have been violated and their ejection from the party was premeditated.

“This matter will move to the political parties Tribunal where a decision will be made. It will move to the High Court if need be, from there we will move to the Court of Appeal and ultimately to the Supreme Court because it involves questions of interpretation and application of the constitution,” the lawyer said.

The defiance sets the stage for a protracted legal combat between the ODM stewards and the rebel members, some of whom have since shifted political allegiance to the Jubilee party.

The rebels include Governor Salim Mvurya (Kwale), Kisii Deputy Governor Joash Maangi, MPs Steven Kariuki (Mathare), Isaac Mwaura (Nominated), Zainab Chidzuga (Kwale Women Rep), Samwel Arama (Nakuru West), Ababu Namwamba (Budalang’i), Masoud Mwahima (Likoni), John Waluke (Sirisia) and Nairobi’s Viwandani MCA Samwel Nyangwara. @hillary_x254

NEWS 3 WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2016

EACC to grill top Health ministry officials over ‘loss of Sh5 billion’ The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has now summoned top Ministry of Health officials to record statements over the alleged loss of Sh5 billion.

Principal Secretary Nicholas Muraguri was scheduled to appear before EACC detectives today morning but the grilling session was rescheduled to afternoon without any explanations given.

Cabinet Secretary Cleopa Mailu is expected to be grilled tomorrow.

The internal auditor Bernard Muchere who raised the red flag on the matter appeared before investigators yesterday afternoon, as well as the Head of the Accounting department Joyce Mutugi ho also recorded a statement.

A statement from the commission said more officials will be called for questioning as well as suppliers and other persons of interest in the matter.

“We called for and received part of relevant documents from the ministry,” EACC CEO Halakhe Waqo said in the statement, “more witnesses including the suppliers are lined up for interviews.”

The ministry has already dismissed claims that Sh5 billion was misappropriated in the 2016/17 financial year, instead saying only Sh3.5 billion was queried and answers have been given.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Health Ministry top officials said all the queries raised in the preliminary audit report had been settled, but pledged to cooperate with investigators to ensure Kenyans get to know the truth.

Mailu has dismissed calls to have him and the PS step aside to pay way for investigations, saying the matter is being addressed by all the competent authorities.

Mailu told journalists on Sunday that no firms named in the Sh5 billion alleged scandal at the ministry were favoured, as claimed by Opposition leaders and activists.

He said 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.

Mailu was responding to questions from reporters that some of the companies—some associated with President Uhuru Kenyatta’s relatives or close friends were favoured in getting lucrative contracts at the Ministry of Health which is has come under sharp focus since last week.

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

Deputy President William Ruto, who spoke at a public function separately, also defended President Kenyatta’s sister saying she had every right to transact business with the government. www.capitalfm.co.ke

How Kabura evaded paying tax from the NYS millions Controversial businesswoman and a key suspect in the National Youth Service (NYS) scandal Josephine Kabura evaded paying taxes for the whole duration she traded with the government.

Kabura yesterday admitted that her 20 companies that won tenders worth Sh1.6 billion from NYS never paid tax on their earnings and no tax returns were filed.

“None of the 20 businesses paid tax on their earnings and no tax returns were filed,” Kabura told MPs investigating the theft.

Kabura who was questioned for about five hours in public and later in the afternoon in camera said she was safe under protection of senior government officials hence did not remit even a shilling to the Kenya Revenue Authority.

An MP who attended the closed door session told X-News that Kabura told them that she was well protected hence she easily avoided paying tax despite her companies winning tenders worth Sh1.6 billion.

“She clearly told us that evading paying tax was not a problem as she enjoyed massive protection from senior government officials. This clearly demonstrates to us that the lady was used as a proxy to swindle taxpayers millions of shillings,” the MP who requested not to be named said.

In the morning session yesterday, Ms Kabura refused to mention the names of the government officials she was working with despite sustained pressure and questions from the committee members. “You are protecting some people but unfortunately you will be hanged up there to dry as they wine and dine using the money you helped them make,” committee chairman

NYS theft suspect Josephine Kabura. She yesterday confessed to MPs that she never paid taxes for the millions she received from NYS.

Nicholas Gumbo warned her.

“You either give us factual information or we say that you lied under oath and refer that to relevant government agencies to deal with it,” added the Rarieda MP. Behind closed doors, Kabura also reportedly revealed to the committee members confidential details of some of the people she shared the sh1.6 billion with and their roles in helping her secure lucrative tenders at the National Youth Service.

Kabura also admitted that despite having been paid for transport costs, it was the NYS trucks and machinery that ferried supplies to the site in Kibera. “I only paid the workers and owners of

the quarry, we agreed with officials at NYS that their lorries would transport the materials to the site,” she admitted.

Kabura however was not able to produce any receipt or evidence of payments amounting sh152 million that she used to pay quarry owners and workers.

“I put to you that you did not transport even a single pebble, neither a grain of sand to the alleged sites. You were a conduit and a thief used to siphon money from the taxpayer,” said Tongaren MP Eseli Simiyu. @sam_x254

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NEWS WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2016

Court urged to compel Parliament to amend traffic laws The High Court has been asked to compel Parliament to amend the traffic laws to save Kenyans from paying penalties that have been unlawfully prescribed.

Appearing before Justice Grace Ngenye, City Lawyer Allen Gichuhi stated that Kenyans have been paying billions of shillings for many traffic charges that are duplicated, contrary to the Constitution.

He said that an offence of speeding is incorrectly entered on the charge sheet and an ignorant motorist ends up paying more than Sh300 the mandatory required penalty.

Gichuhi said that the duplication of charge sheets by the prosecution is unconstitutional since it imposes unlawful penalties on Citizens.

The lawyer was making submissions in an application seeking to challenge traffic laws under which motorists are charged and penalized.

According to Gichuhi’s client Ankush Manoj Shah, the prosecution has continuously applied laws which have not been repealed to the detriment of the citizens. The lawyer argued that Shah was charged on 28 August 2014 before traffic court, Nairobi but declined to plead to the charges as they were duplicated thus attracting more penalties as opposed to the regulations set out in the Traffic Act. He told the judge that the application before the court raises issues of national importance, as the court is being asked to make guidelines to ensure that the charge sheets prescribes in accordance with the nature of the offence that attract the correct penalty.

“Citizens have been exposed to an illegal penalty and deprived them their right to property as provided for under section 40 of the Constitution,” the lawyer argued. He stated that the court should act within the maximum penalties, saying it is unconstitutional for a person to be charged with a nonexistent offence which denies them the liberty to enjoy the least severe of the prescribed punishment. Gichuhi further stated the courts will have fewer cases as citizen will opt to pay the correct fine paid which is Sh300 for speed in exceeding limit of 50kph. The court will deliver its judgment on November 29. www.capitalfm.co.ke

LAND DISPUTES:

National Land Commission chairman Muhammad Swazuri speaks at the Kabete Technical Institute in Nairobi when he made a fact-finding tour at the institute in regard to a land dispute between the institution and the Anglican Church of Kenya. Lands CS Prof.Jacob Kaimenyi has expressed concern on the rising cases of encroachment of land belonging to public schools and institutions by churches across the country. And speaking to the media during his fact finding mission at the institute, Prof.Swazuri said available documents show the ACK has hived off five acres from the institute’s 52 acres land.

He said NLC in collaboration with the lands Ministry would do everything possible to ensure that all land illegally hived off from public institutions country wide is returned to the rightful owners.

UN chief sacks Kenyan commander Lt Gen Johnson Mogoa Kiamni Ondieki who was the commander of the UN force in South Sudan until Monday when he was sacked by UN Secretary general Ban Ki Moo. The UN chief accused him of slow response to attacks that led to the collapse of a unity government that was installed in April.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has sacked the commander of the UN force in South Sudan, Lt Gen Johnson Mogoa Kimani Ondieki, after a report said it had failed to protect civilians in July. The report backed claims by aid workers that the UN troops refused to respond when government soldiers attacked an international aid compound in Juba.

In the fighting between the army and former rebels, a local journalist was killed and aid workers were raped. The clashes derailed efforts to form a unity government and end the civil war.

The fighting began with clashes between President Salva Kiir’s guards and bodyguards of the sacked Vice-President Riek Machar.

Mr Ban “has asked for the immediate replacement of the force commander” Kenyan Lt Gen Johnson Mogoa Kimani Ondieki, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric announced on

Monday. The independent special investigation into the violence on 8-11 July in South Sudan’s capital was commissioned by the UN. In three days of fighting, at least 73 people were killed, including more than 20 internally displaced people who had sought UN protection. Two peacekeepers also died.

Among the targets of the attack by government troops were a UN peacekeeping base, known as UN House, and the nearby Terrain Camp.

The report found that “a lack of leadership on the part of key senior mission (Unmiss) personnel culminated in a chaotic and ineffective response to the violence”.

It said the peacekeepers “did not operate under a unified command, resulting in multiple and sometimes conflicting orders to the four troop contingents from China, Ethiopia, Nepal and India, and ultimately under-using the more than 1,800 infantry troops at UN House”.

“This included at least two instances in which the Chinese battalion abandoned some of its defensive positions,” the document said.

It also said a Nepalese police unit had “performed inadequately” in its efforts to stop looting.

During the attack on Terrain camp, the report said that “civilians were subjected to and witnessed gross human rights violations, including murder, intimidation, sexual violence and acts amounting to torture perpetrated by armed government soldiers”.

Unmiss has 16,000 peacekeepers deployed in South Sudan.

Both President Kiir’s and Mr Machar’s followers have been accused of perpetrating atrocities during the country’s bitter civil conflict.

More than 2.5 million people in South Sudan have been displaced since the fighting first began in December 2013.

16 injured as KCPE exam vehicle crashes Sixteen people were yesterday evening injured after a GK vehicle ferrying the on-going KCPE examination papers crashed at Ol-Kalou in Nyandarua County. The vehicle was carrying five headteachers, five Administration Police officers and five NYS officers.

They were taking the examination papers to the Nyandarua County Commissioner’s office when the accident happened.

They had just collected the papers from Githunguri, Hezta, Hospital, St Thomas and Manyatta primary schools.

The driver said he swerved to avoid hitting a motorcycle when the accident occurred.

NEWS 5

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 2, 2016

FBI at the door: Why investigators keep showing up in US elections The FBI is in a political hole, and can’t seem to stop digging.

Hillary Clinton’s supporters were already fuming after FBI Director James Comey (pictured) revived the specter of her email scandal in the tense final days of the presidential election, a move that played right into Donald Trump’s hands.

But their frustrations, and suspicions, intensified Tuesday when the FBI suddenly released redacted files about its 2001 probe into President Bill Clinton’s pardon of fugitive financier Marc Rich. In an election hinging on voter perceptions of character and trustworthiness, the move revived memories of yet another political fracas surrounding the Clinton family.

That leaves the FBI in an unprecedented position: very publicly at the center of a presidential race one week out from the election.

The apolitical agency’s actions over the past four days are leaving the FBI exposed to arguments from Democrats, and some Republicans, that it is improperly intervening in the fight between Clinton and Trump.

And it ensures that Comey, who was once a registered Republican and contributed to GOP nominees John McCain and Mitt Romney, will remain in

the spotlight for the remainder of the campaign.

“It’s another very puzzling development. We are in the final stages of an important presidential campaign,” Hakeem Jeffries, a Democratic congressman from New York who supports Clinton, told CNN’s Wolf Blitzer on “The Situation Room.” “Because of the FBI’s actions, we are talking about emails, Anthony Weiner and a 15-year-old pardon.”

He continued: “That doesn’t make any sense and it undermines the integrity of the democratic process. The FBI and the director owe the American people an explanation as to what is going on.”

The FBI sought to make clear there was no political motive around the sudden appearance of the Rich documents, saying they were released in line with procedures relating to Freedom of Information Act filings.

“These materials became available for release and were posted automatically and electronically to the FBI’s public reading room in accordance with the law and established p r o c e d u r e s ,” the statement said. But before the statement, C l i n t o n spokesman Brian Fallon questioned the timing of the release, nearly 16 years after Bill Clinton left the White House but only seven days before the election involving his wife.

Democratic Presidential Candidate Hillary Clinton (right) gestures as she speaks during her presidential campaign event at the Reverend Samuel Delevoe Memorial Park in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, early today. Left is Mr Trump. PHOTOS: EPA

Accusations galore as Clinton, Trump march towards polls Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton has stepped up her attacks on rival Donald Trump, labelling him a “bully” for criticising women for their looks.

Mrs Clinton said Mr Trump had a 30-year history of “demeaning, degrading, insulting and assaulting” women.

Meanwhile, Mr Trump has branded Mrs Clinton “corrupt” and said she would “destroy American healthcare forever”.

He told early Clinton voters with “buyer’s remorse” they could change their vote in four states.

The clashes came as the fractious contest entered its final week, with the opinion polls appearing to show the race getting tighter.

Speaking in Florida - and appearing on stage with former Miss Universe Alicia Machado, who has previously claimed Mr Trump once called her “Miss Piggy” after she put on weight, Mrs Clinton said she had “learned way back in elementary school that it’s not OK to insult people”.

For her part, Ms Machado called Mr Trump “cruel” and said she had spent years “sick,

fighting back eating disorders” as a result of the Republican nominee’s comments.

Echoing Mrs Clinton’s comments at a rally in Ohio, President Barack Obama said the Republican candidate had spent a “lifetime calling women pigs and dogs and slobs”.

The focus on Mr Trump’s treatment of women coincided with a new TV advert put out by the Democrats which showed archive footage of Mr Trump making remarks such as: “Putting a wife to work is a very dangerous thing.”

The Republican nominee has faced a string of sexual harassment allegations in the last month, after a 2005 video tape that saw him making obscene remarks about women emerged.

He has denied any wrongdoing and threatened to sue those involved after the election.

Donald Trump focused his attacks on the Affordable Care Act, dubbed Obamacare, which he believes is becoming increasingly unpopular with low income families he needs to vote for him, amid reports of

higher premiums and less choice.

Appearing on stage with his running mate Mike Pence and Governor Scott Walker in Wisconsin, Mr Trump called Obamacare “a catastrophe” and said he would immediately convene a special session of Congress to repeal and replace it if he becomes president.

He also urged early voters who had “made a mistake” by voting for Mrs Clinton to change their ballots before Thursday’s deadline.

Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota and Pennsylvania allow early vote switches but the practice is extremely rare, according to the Early Voting Information Center at Reed College.

Both sides also continued to spar over the recent revelation that FBI investigators are again probing Mrs Clinton’s email practices on Tuesday.

The revelation has put Democrats on the defensive and hurt Mrs Clinton’s plans to promote a positive message over the campaign’s final week.

Landslide win for new Ivory Coast constitution Electoral officials in Ivory Coast say the yes campaign has won Sunday’s referendum on a new constitution, with 93.42% of the votes.

The turnout, 42.42%, is higher than an earlier 7% estimate by opposition parties that boycotted the polls.

Backed by President Alassane Ouattara, the change scraps a requirement that both parents of presidential candidates must be native-born Ivorians.

Opponents accuse Mr Ouattara of using it as a way to hand-pick his successor.

In the lead-up to the referendum, there were street protests by opposition supporters against the constitutional reforms.

On Monday, President Ouattara acknowledged that there were some disturbances during the vote, but said they were isolated incidents.

In one instance, youths destroyed some polling stations in the Abidjan district of Yopougon - a stronghold of the opposition Ivorian Popular Front.

The new constitution is billed

by President Alassane Ouattara as an opportunity to turn a page on instability, mainly around the divisive issue of identity, which has fuelled decades of civil strife.

The new construction removes the age limit of 75 for those seeking to be elected to the post of president.

Mr Ouattara will be over the current

age limit at the end of his current term. Initially, some of his critics accused him of trying to stay in power himself but the draft retains a ban on third terms so he cannot seek re-election.

The new constitution also introduces a Senate which will form the country’s law-making body alongside the existing National Assembly. The position of a vicepresident has also been introduced as well as a new chamber for traditional chiefs to recognise their importance to the country Electoral commission president Youssouf Bakayoko announced the yes campaign’s win on state-owned television on Tuesday.

Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara when he cast his ballot in the referendum elections in Abidjan on 30 October 2016. 93% voted in favour of the new constitution.

PHOTO/EPA

xnews | weDnesDay, nOVeMBeR 2, 2016 | www.x254.cO

BUSINESS

CBK EXCHANGE RATES

NIC Bank hosts summit to unlock new opportunities for SME sector NIC Bank has held a summit focusing on the unlocking of financial opportunities for the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) dubbed “With Rates Capped; where are the opportunities for SMEs”.

Graced by officials from the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Kenya Association of Manufacturers, the Law fraternity and business men and women who run successful SMEs across various sectors, the summit fronted SMEs as major drivers of the Kenyan economy.

“We all want SMEs to succeed.

Everyone stands to benefit from a more vibrant SME sector. Banks, like ours, will be able to get more business, private sector such as the Chamber, KAM will have new formidable members and government will ultimately increase revenue collections. This is besides other obvious social benefits such as job creation,” said Robert Kibaara NIC bank’s Retail banking Director.

For the past year, NIC bank has been working closely with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to enhance its entire SME proposition in an effort to develop products, services and solutions that respond to the feedback received from customers over time.

Global statistics show that SMEs constitute the overwhelming majority of firms, and account for approximately 50 per cent of the world’s Gross Domestic Product while employing between 60 and 70 per cent of the total

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

NIC Bank Managing Director Mr. John Gachora. SMEs account for 50 per cent of the world’ s GDP. work force.

“The proverbial cheese has moved.

Banks and their customers are operating in unprecedented times.

We have seen major changes in the banking industry recently following the implementation of the new Banking (Amendment) Act 2016. As NIC Bank, we have fully complied with the law and are enhancing our business model to ensure that we are able to serve our

customers, meet their needs in this new environment and continue to offer our shareholders value,” noted NIC Bank MD Mr. John Gachora.

NIC Bank this year took 94 customers to China to find market opportunities and increase business networks.

During the ten-day tour customers got to visit key Chinese cities. The tour was informed by the need to respond to a growing interest in China for the bank’s

Tullow Oil to restart exploration, drilling in Lokichar field next month Multinational oil and gas exploration company, Tullow Oil will restart exploration and appraisal drilling in the country’s South Lokichar field next month.

Since 2012, Tullow’s successful exploration and appraisal drilling campaigns in Kenya resulted in the opening of a second new tertiary rift play in the South Lokichar Basin.

The mining firm has noted an upside potential of over 1 billion barrels of recoverable oil in the field.

“An accelerated exploration and appraisal campaign is now completed in the basin and initial assessment indicates recoverable resources of up to 750 million barrels of oil,” Tullow said in a statement.

The Group had since been reviewing options for re-starting the exploration campaign in this basin to de-risk the overall upside potential of 1 billion barrels.

“A recent 3-D survey shows additional upside potential,” said Tim O’Hanlon, Vice President for Tullow Oil’s Africa business.

O’Hanlon was speaking to an oil and gas conference in Cape Town, South Africa.

Tullow Oil, which has its main production assets in Ghana, also has exploration acreage in Mauritania, Namibia and Zambia.

These developments come just as Tullow Oil says it has successfully completed the six-monthly redetermination of its Reserve Based Lend (RBL) facility.

RBL is a type of financing where a loan is secured by the undeveloped reserves of oil and gas of a borrower. The facility is repaid using the proceeds that derive from sales in the field or portfolio of fields in production.

Tullow also confirmed that it has secured $345 million of new commitments from its existing lenders by exercising an accordion facility embedded in the existing RBL which will take effect from April 1, 2017.

The new commitments will largely offset the impact of the scheduled repayment in April 2017 and will ensure Tullow has appropriate headroom throughout 2017 as it refinances its bank facilities.

O’Hanlon noted that Tullow Oil was targeting an export pipeline capable of taking 200,000 to 230,000 barrels per day in Uganda .

clients, especially for import businesses.

It allowed NIC Bank’s customers to identify new opportunities, specifically for sourcing cheap inputs and stock for their businesses back in Kenya.

Principal Secretary for the Ministry of Trade Mr. Julius Korir, noted that the forum provided an opportunity for the Ministry and the bank to brainstorm in order to further develop the sector. @kevin_x254

MEAN 101.4761 123.3597 111.0494 7.5031 34.0968 21.5322

BUY SELL 101.3789 101.5733 123.2178 123.5017 110.9283 111.1706 7.4918 7.5145 34.0148 34.1787 21.4623 21.6021

Standard Chartered seeks licenses to offer Islamic banking services

Standard Chartered Bank has confirmed that it is seeking banking licenses in three African countries in a bid to offer its services to the continent’s large Muslim population.

The lender’s Islamic banking division, Standard Chartered Saadiq is likely to branch into Nigeria, Botswana and Zambia from as early as 2017, said the bank’s head of Islamic banking for retail clients, Mohammad Ali Allawalla.

Standard Chartered Saadiq entered the Kenyan market in 2014, its first move into Africa. Its core markets are Pakistan, Malaysia, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Indonesia and Bangladesh.

The lender;’s move comes at a time when Sub-Saharan Africa’s Muslim population is estimated to more than double from about 250 million people in 2010 to nearly 670 million in 2050, according to Pew Research Center.

Standard Chartered Saadiq is also in discussions about gaining an Islamic banking licence in Brunei in South East Asia and working with the regulator there on guidelines for Islamic wealth management.

“Nigeria is an interesting market in terms of size we are exploring and other markets like Botswana and Zambia, which are not big markets in terms of sheer size but in terms of pockets of customers they present a good opportunity,” Allawalla said.

Nigeria, the continent’s most populous nation, has around 77 million Muslims, according to Pew Research Center.

Allawalla said the country presented challenges for retail banking because of the gap between rich and poor.

Banking sector braces for layoffs and restructuring as lenders move to cut costs

Kenya’s banking sector is still reeling from the implementation of the Banking Amendment Bill as lenders are seeking ways to minimize expenses.

Banks are expected to close down some of their branches and pursue a digital strategy raising fears of downsizing staff.

Standard Investment Bank Research indicates that banks are looking at thinner margins following the passing of the Bill, which was sponsored by Kikuyu Member of Parliament Jude Njomo. The Bill puts a cap on lending rates at 4 per cent above the Central Bank base rate and further provides the minimum interest rate on deposits at 70 per cent of the Central Bank Base Rate.

The move has forced financial institutions to pursue a technology driven strategy to lower costs.

Sidian Bank plans to send home at least 108 of its 506 staff at a oneoff cost of Sh70 million while Midsized Family Bank was the first to declare a voluntary retrenchment programme but did not disclose the numbers targeted.

Pan-African lender Ecobank has announced it will close nine branches, out of its 29 branches, over the next seven months. The decision was made early this year with the bank planning to pursue a digital strategy, with similar changes planned across the other 36 countries it operates in.

Its clients will now be recruited and served across its digital platforms such as mobile and internet platforms.The bank is currently in the process of selling its head office building based in Nairobi’s Central Business District.

A recent World Bank report on

Kenya dubbed ‘Beyond Resilience’, banks’ average net interest margins are likely to decline by up to 430 basis points from the 11.4 per cent they averaged in June 2016.

This will impact all categories of Kenyan banks. However, given lower profit margins among Tier 3 banks relative to Tier 1 banks, they are likely to be hit the hardest.

Reflecting the impact of the new law on bank profitability, some 15 percent of value of bank stocks (5.4 percent of the all share index) was wiped-off within a month of the passing of the Banking Amendment Bill.

The law is likely to reduce the ability of banks to differentiate creditworthiness and price accordingly, leading to a more homogenous product, reduced competition and shutting out of certain categories of borrowers.

BUSINESS 9

Leisure spending on the rise as tourism sector picks up speed

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2016

Consumers are spending twice as much money on leisure as they are on business, a new report by the United Nations World Travel and Tourism Council’s (UNWTTC) has confirmed.

The report, published every year, has noted that in 2015, leisure spending in Kenya stood at 67.5 per cent, almost double that of business spending, which stood at 32.5 per cent in the local tourism sector. During the same period, local (domestic) spending stood at 59 per cent, significantly higher than foreign spending, which stood at 41 per cent; a clear indication that Kenyans are steadily moving away from ownership to experience.

The study indicates that the travel sector has had a huge impact on the ‘experience economy’ ecosystem more than any other. Travelers now demand something beyond a travel service; a memorable experience that will be shared with friends. To add to this, travelers are now more than ever, searching for user-generated activities and local experiences as compared to signing up already established and ‘boring’ itineraries.

Increasingly, Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) are attaching more value to the human factor and its position on the value chain. This has led to a progressive shift in branding as companies have to invest more in the experience. This is what separates them from similar providers and affords them an upper hand in a saturated market.

“Customer experience goes beyond the automated instructions on where to insert packing fees, to the need for a cheerful and knowledgeable person to man the lot, and direct drivers,”

In 2015, leisure spending in Kenya stood at 67.5 per cent, almost double that of business spending, which stood at 32.5 per cent in the local tourism sector. explains the report.

The shift from a product-driven economy to an experience-central kind of culture is perhaps supported by the growing middle class in the country that now has more disposable income to share, and the right to choose their supplier, supported by an influx of vendors. A Q1 report on Kenyan economics by World Bank predicted a growth and rise in the economy from 5.9 per cent in 2016, to 6 per cent in 2017. For vendors to capture the new budgets allocated to household travel and adventures, they must then move from a product-centric model

to embrace a more customer-centric structure that will not only match, but supercede customer expectations.

The absorption of technology into tourism and travel industry has played a major role in the shaping of this ecosystem; providing a medium for sharing and an interface to relay feedback. In a recent Customer Experience Management Africa conference held in Cape Town, Author and VP for Customer Experience Professionals, Qaalfa Dibeehi noted that “Digitally empowered customers have given rise to a new era, the age of the customer. This is forcing companies

to become customer centric.”

The Experience Economy was made popular by James Pine and Joseph Gilmores, gaining fame and support after a 1998 publication in the Harvard Business Review. The two keenly observe that consumers are evolving from the commodity-driven phase, thus a need for sellers to distinctively separate goods, service and experience as offering independent of each other; but which put together total into a wholesome, unforgettable experience @kevin_x254

USAID moves to support innovation in agriculture as group partners with Kenyan entrepreneurs The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is working closely with Kenyan entrepreneurs in a bid to support innovation and development within the country’s agriculture sector.

Under US President Barack Obama’s Feed the Future initiative, USAID is working in the region to address persistent malnutrition, food security and poverty.

“This is accomplished through our various activities including the Kenya Innovation Engine, the Financial Inclusion for Rural Microenterprises program, the Kenya Agricultural Value Chain program, and our health programs,” explained USAID Kenya Acting Office Chief for Economic Growth Prof. Michael Nicholson.

Speaking during a recent Agricultural Show and Trade Fair held in Homa Bay, he noted that through the Kenya Innovation Engine, USAID has identified innovative agricultural

enterprises that have introduced new technologies in agriculture and is continuously supporting them to ensure their growth and sustainability.

“To improve the food security situation and reduce poverty in this region, we plan to expand the reach of these innovations in this region to ensure that more farmers are accessing these technologies and embracing a shift from subsistence farming to agribusiness,” he added.

The event provides a platform for farmers to create linkages with various stakeholders in the agricultural industry, including private sector, government and development partners. It also offers a platform to promote agricultural entrepreneurship and trade by showcasing new technologies, opportunities and skills.

The affair was attended by Willy Bett, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries; Governor of Homa Bay County,

Cyprian O. Awiti; Hamilton Orata, Deputy Governor, Homa Bay County, and opposition leader, Raila Odinga.

The theme for this year’s show “Enhancing Technology in Agriculture and Industry for Food Security and National Growth” is in line with USAID’s strategy for Food Security and Economic Empowerment.

To date, the Kenya Innovation Engine has reached over 73,000 rural households and has recorded a sales turnover of over Sh2.8 billion. This is across 16 value chains including dairy and a number of crops such as bananas, green beans, potatoes, tomatoes and other horticultural crops.

Smallholder farmers have recorded increased revenues of over 670 million Kenya shillings after adoption of these technologies.

USAID has supported the Homa Bay County Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) and Investment Portfolio through the USAID/Financial Inclusion for Rural

Microenterprises activity (FIRM). This has in turn increased private-sector investment in Homa Bay County while helping Homa Bay County identify and manage resources.

“The U.S. Government, through our partner agencies, is also helping Homa Bay tackle pressing public health challenges through supporting HIV Testing Services and anti-retroviral treatment. Over 90,524 in the county are currently benefiting from this USAID support. With this background, and looking towards the future, there’s so much more we can all accomplish if we seize new opportunities to partner with one another,” said Prof.

Nicholson.

“We urge the County Government of Homa Bay to continue creating an enabling environment for these entrepreneurs and innovators,” he concluded. @Dennis_x254

KQ fetes top travel agents for contributing to carrier’s loss reduction Kenya Airways has rewarded Kenyan travel agents who have contributed to its growth in revenues and subsequent reduction in net loss during the 2015/2016 financial year at an award ceremony dinner held in Nairobi.

BCD travel scooped the top prize while Carlson Wagonlit Travel, HRG Kenya, FCM Travel Solutions and Muthaiga travel completed the list of top five agents in the Total Revenue Performance awards for 2016.

Presiding over the annual awards ceremony, Kenya Airways’ Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mbuvi Ngunze accredited the success of the airline’s business and revenue growth to the sterling efforts of the travel agents.

“Travel agents contribute the bulk of our revenues as a business; and are the backbone of our business. They have been instrumental in helping us turnaround our performance and deliver the impressive results that we did in our half year results announced last week. Today, we are thanking the travel agents for their support and recognizing those who have excelled,” Mbuvi explained.

“At Kenya Airways, we believe strongly in bonding system, where people are appreciated and celebrated for achieving success with renewed commitment for greater performance.” he added.

In its half year results for the period ended September 30, 2016, Kenya Airways recorded a Sh0.9 billion operating profit, compared to an operating loss of Sh2.2 billion in the prior period, a 143.6 per cent swing.

During the ceremony, other travel agents were feted on various categories. Bush Blazers, Basel Tours & Travel and Uniglobe Silverbird Travel were awarded as the top selling agents in the KQ Holidays Sales category.

Travel n Style, FCM Travel Solutions and Uniglobe Northline Travel were feted for being the top selling agents - Group Sales category. The Top three agents in Business Class Revenue Sales 2016 went to HRG Kenya, BCD Travel and Carlson Wagonlit Travel.

Georgetown Travel, Express Travel Group and Palbina Travel emerged the top three agents in the category of high market share and high revenue 2016 category.

In the route performers category based on sales, African Touch Safaris were the winners in domestic routes sales, BCD Travel won in the African routes, Satguru Travel & Tours won on the Asian routes while HRG Kenya won the European routes category. @kevin_x254

8

Motoring Deals

Ford, Nissan, Toyota executives unveil plans to manufacture vehicles locally WeDnesDaY, noVeMBer 2, 2016

Executives from Ford Motor Co. and Nissan Motor Co. have announced plans to work with Kenyan authorities to develop an auto-manufacturing industry in the East African country.

The African Association of Automotive Manufacturers, which also includes Toyota Motor Corp., General Motors Co., BMW AG and Volkswagen AG, plans to take advantage of a new surge of interest from African governments in building vehicles locally.

The group urged Nigerian President

Muhammadu Buhari and senior officials in August, to limit the inflow of barely used second-hand cars and firm up policy for prospective carmakers and parts suppliers.

Ford sub-Saharan Africa Chief Executive Officer, Jeff Nemeth, who chairs the group, said the interest in developing auto industries in subSaharan Africa has grown as oil and commodity-dependent countries seek to diversify their economies amid weaker prices.

German carmaker Volkswagen last month confirmed plans to establish an assembly plant in Kenya before the end of the year. The plant will be integral in the production of its Vivo model vehicles, President Uhuru Kenyatta and Thomas Schafer, Volkswagen South Africa Chief Executive have said.

The move will see Volkswagen resume production of cars in Kenya by the end of the year as it seeks to cash in on the East African market.

Kenyatta said in a past statement that the move would help the government provide employment for both skilled and non-skilled youth.

“Volkswagen South Africa will now

again establish an assembly plant to produce motor vehicles at the Kenya Motor Vehicle Manufacturers limited in Thika,” explained Kenyatta.

The President said that VW’s assembly plant would begin with the Vivo and expand to a range of other vehicles, with the first car expected to be rolled out before the end of the year.

“We believe that Kenya has got the potential to develop a very big fullyfledged automotive industry. The East African Community (EAC) has got the potential, and today is the first step in this direction that we want to take with our passenger cars,” Schafer said.

Schaefer, Chairman of the German

carmaker’s South Africa division noted that DT Dobie, VW’s importer and general distributor in Kenya, owned a 30 per cent shareholding in Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers, a multiband assembly facility that would assemble the Vivo on a contract basis.

Speaking to a news conference in South Africa last week, Schaefer said full production of the Polo Vivo will begin in January next year. However there will be a ceremonial roll-off of the first car on December 21 and initial production will involve 1,000 cars a year. @Dennis_x254

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Motoring Deals 9

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Nissan Xtrail 08 mdl Red with alloy rims 1.58M also KBM silver V/clean 750K Trade in OK 80% Finance Arranged 0722772433

Subaru Forester 08 mdl black with Sun/Moon roof 1.85M Trade in OK 80% Finance Arranged 0725563142

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Toyota Probox 08 & 2010 White & Blue from 840K also KBU p/ white v/clean 540K also T/Succeed KBX diesel manual 620K Trade in OK 0725928084 Toyota wish 09 mdl grey latest shape from 1.49M Trade in OK 80% Finance Arranged 0725928084 Toyota Rav4 05,08 & 09 mdls auto Green,Black & Sky Blue from 1.35M Trade in OK 80% Finance 0710656750 Toyota Land cruiser VX KBE P/white fully loaded with height control & Sun/moon roof V/clean 2.49M also KAV VX with leather interior & alloy rims 2.39M Trade in OK 0724571990 Toyota Mark X 2010 mdl latest shape P/white 1.89M also 08 mdl Silver & Pearl fully loaded from 1.19M Trade in OK 80% Finance Arranged 0725928084 Toyota hilux double cabs 08,09 & 2010 mdls auto & manual Black, Silver & White with canopy/ facelifted to 2016 shape from 3.09M Trade in OK 80% Finance Arranged 0720217583

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2016

ACCESS Clad in a red shirt, shoes and a loose pair of trousers Rachel Shebesh sat on a Nairobi street and conversed with a man identified as William Kisumo

Rachel Shebesh

Pauline Shamola

Nairobi Women Rep accused of ‘raping our morals’ for aiding disabled person

R

achel Shebesh is no stranger to controversy.

The Nairobi Women Rep has yet again made headlines by attempting to seem folksy but coming off as disingenuous. A few days ago Safaricom Customer Care Rep Pauline Shamola touched everyone’s hearts after she went above and beyond the call of duty to help a disabled person who was seeking assistance from the company. Shamola got down on her knees just to be able to communicate and serve the customer better. This news is already outstanding on its own because customer care reps are not necessarily infamous for their patience.

The picture taken during the incident made rounds all over social media and Pauline Shamola was celebrated on social media particularly because People Living with Disabilities are many times overlooked.

Reportedly, Shamola’s act of kindness gained her so much recognition that Safaricom CEO Bob Collymore paid her a visit and she was acknowledged by the National Council of People Living with Disabilities.

Rachel Shebesh made a similar move and it didn’t quite come off in the same way.

Maybe the Nairobi Women Rep did not have the

picture in mind when she sat on the ground with another disabled person but it was a little too soon for it not to raise eyebrows. Humility is not something that goes hand in hand with politicians. So it’s not hard to see how the move would have rubbed some the wrong way.

Clad in a red shirt, shoes and a loose pair of trousers Rachel Shebesh sat on a Nairobi street and conversed with a man identified as William Kisumo who was probably going about his day. Pictures taken on the day also show a few Jubilee promoters standing not too far away.

The internet was hot on her heels soon after.

‘Did Shebesh really do this? Copycat Andu aya!

Who are her PR pple? Roof top graduants? We need holes to hide&re-emerge after elections’ said one user. ‘Looks like Shebesh is trying to slither back into relevance,’ added another.

Some did not even bother to hide their feelings at all ‘This is the biggest hypocrite I have seen in October. Where has she been for four years? The county government has messed Nairobi city and we should vote all these fellows out,’ plus this exaggeration, ‘I can boldly say here that Rachel Shebesh is the worst thing that has ever happened to Nairobi.’ Elections are also nearing and it would seem more than mere coincidence that the Nairobi Women Rep would do something to make her seem more personable as ballot day draws closer.

Rachel Shebesh

ACCESS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2016

11

SALADS CAN BE TAKEN AS A SIDE DISH OR AS A COMPLETE MEAL.

@christine_x254

WATERMELON AND BALSAMIC SALAD

Quick 3-ingredient salads to get you through the middle of the day

cures

Watermelon is a very versatile fruit that can be used in a savory setting. This salad consists of watermelon as a base, Mozzarella or goat cheese to add a little saltiness to the mix and balsamic vinegar for some tang. This salad can be taken as a side dish or as a complete meal.

KALE, AVOCADO SWEET PEPPER

AND

Has avocado ever let anyone down? So why not add it to all your

salads in all sorts of combinations.

In this iteration kale and some sweet peppers are mixed up in a bowl and drizzled with whatever dressing you see fit. The great thing about it that the avocado provides a fair amount of moisture and might not even need any extra dressing in the bowl.

TRICOLOR SALAD

Tricolor salad or Tricolore salad is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine.

It has a simple and straightforward base consisting of tomatoes, Mozzarella cheese and basil. For some added taste Extra Virgin

HOME IMPROVEMENT Succulents, like most house plants require care and maintenance. But these are special due to the sheer popularity of the breed in recent times. Not all succulents can be placed right inside the home but here are some that can still be incorporated right into the décor.

SNAKE PLANT (SANSEVIERIA TRIFASCIATA)

ALOE

The infamous Aloe Vera succulent belongs to the larger aloe genus. Not only can you use this plant for a variety of cosmetic purposes but the leaves can be blended up into a delicious health drink. Aloe Vera in particular can be used for medicinal purposes and for treating sunburn. They do tend to have spines on them, which might require placing the pot in an area where children might not be able to gain access.

BEST SUCCULENTS FOR GROWING INDOORS

@christine_x254

If this plant seems slightly familiar it’s because they are everywhere. Snake plants have to be the one of the most common succulents used around. Their characteristic variegated leaves and pointy ends are eye-catching but there’s more to this plant than that. There’s a little bit of folk lore that surrounds this plant and according to reports this is a very hardy plant. Apparently they can come back to life after some neglect much easier than many other succulents.

JADE PLANT (CRASSULA OVATA)

Resembling a bonsai tree, this small plant is an optimal choice for indoor foliage. The Jade plant requires little water and a few hours of sunlight per day. Too much water in the pot will cause the roots of the plant to rot so it would be advisable to wait for the soil to dry up before watering it again.

DIY

Turning a door mat into a wall hanging If you have an old doormat that doesn’t look so good on the doorstep anymore, you can easily revamp and recycle it into a wall hanging. All you need apart from the doormat is stencil and a cutting item such as a razorblade or scissors.

Begin by laying out the mat on a flat surface then place the custom made stencil on top. Using your marker pen, outline the patterns on the stencil then revamp the mat by either painting or cutting out along the patterns.

Easy and convenient.

@mercy_x254

Olive Oil is drizzled onto the mix.

You can switch up the basil with some avocado if you want to update the recipe or just have varying tastes.

KALE WITH AVOCADO AND SWEET POTATO

Another ingredient enjoying a moment in the sun is sweet potato.

Although putting it in a salad might be the last thing you might think of b doing, the vegetable provides a lot of natural sweetness to a salad plus helps you revisit a golden oldie.

WORKOUT

Biggest exercise trends of

E

xercise is a dynamic thing but some aspects of the game seem to become so trendy that they deserve a mention. Here are 2016’s biggest exercise hits according to Google.

BACK EXERCISES Apparently most people are not searching for 6-pack abs when they work out. Back exercises were one of the most popular search terms when it comes to working out. Which might mean we are spending too much time hunched over at our desks and not enough time moving.

BATTLE ROPE EXERCISES What are these? You might be asking but fear not we’ll break it down. Battle rope exercises have become one of hottest exercise crazes to hit the market. What sets them apart is that they are actually quite effective in achieving their end. On Peak Fitness it states that the use of ropes has been around for much longer than most people realize, ‘Long used as a training tool for football players, mixed martial artists (MMA), and other athletes, battle ropes can provide a high-intensity, whole-body workout that gets your muscles moving in new ways.’ Sounds like a real workout.

PROTEIN In the past 5 years searching for the term ‘protein’ has shot up. Building body mass and muscle is apparently now a priority. Coach Magazine reports, ‘There was an uptick in searches for people looking for the brands releasing proteinenhanced products in 2016 – Mars, Snickers and Weetabix.’

FITNESS TRACKERS These little gadgets have made workouts much

more effective and simplified the process which also explains why they are so popular. Many tech companies have jumped on the bandwagon with Microsoft and Samsung producing some top of the shelf devices.

@christine_x254

12

ACCESS

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2016

‘OUR PERFECT WEDDING’ REALITY SHOW PREMIERE

A

ll weddings, including the most modest ones cost some money. Many couples are always left wondering how they will cater for their wedding expenses, and still spare some money to enjoy their honeymoons. This however, is not the story for Daniel Makau and his �iancée Beatrice Muthoni. The couple have won an all-expense paid wedding and honeymoon package, courtesy of Maisha Magic East and Sarova Hotels, Resort and Game Lodges. The couple, who submitted their entry following the announcement of the competition by Maisha Magic East last month managed to clinch the top position after battling it out with 13 other couples.

The 14 couples, who were shortlisted for the competition, will feature in the reality show, Our Perfect Wedding, which is set to premier at 8 pm on Thursday, the 3rd of November, 2016, on Maisha Magic East (DStv Channel 158 and GOtv Channel 4).

Do not overload your bag as this will cause the slings to weaken and the bag will lose its shape.

@christine_x254

@kevin_x254

Forty-seven episodes into the CW ‘dramedy’, Jane finally had sex. After marrying her longtime love Michael, Jane remained a virgin because her husband had been shot on their wedding night. With a long recovery ahead of him, having sex wasn’t an option.

That is, until last week’s episode, when a doctor gave the newlyweds the all-clear. A cliffhanger ending found them rushing into the elevator to go home.

This week, the show had a lot of fun with Jane’s impending milestone. The episode, directed

by Eva Longoria, opened with some curious noises and innuendo that turned out to be a flashback of Jane and Michael moving heavy boxes around their new home.

After chiding us for our “dirty minds,” the narrator turned our attention to the fact that Jane and Michael had returned home from the doctor’s office.

HOT TOPICS

‘Jane the virgin’ isn’t a virgin anymore

releases new song,

U

Rapper

H

ot on the heels of her diss track titled ‘Pilau Njeri’ Femi One is seeking the Lord’s intervention with a new track dubbed ‘Jah’.The song is a celebration of how far Femi One has come in her music career.

“I am just thanking God for the blessing. This song means a lot to me because Jah is a big step in my career and I have grown as an artiste and a brand too,” says Femi One. Jah was produced by the talented Ricco Beatz and mixed and mastered

by Richie G of ATL Entertainment.

“Ricco Beatz is a talented producer who understands what I want and the direction I want to go,’’ Femi One concluded.

gandan singer Jose Chameleone is, this coming weekend, expected to share the stage with American superstar and arguable ‘King Of Rap’ Jay Z as they burn down Tanzania. The “Agatako” hit maker has been lined among the top performers at the Tigo Fiesta in Dar-esSalaam, Tanzania, which will be headlined by Jay Z. Other performers will include popular singers Ali Kiba,Vanessa Mdee and Yemi Alade among others.

Kiba, Mdee to share stage with hip hop star Jay –Z

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THURSDAY 03/11/2016

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FRIDAY

24

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

SUDOKU

WEDNESDAY 02/11/2016

14

SPORT WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2016

Arsenal fightback to reach last 16 Mesut Ozil scored a stunning late goal as a resilient Arsenal came back from 2-0 down to beat Ludogorets Razgrad and reach the Champions League knockout stages.

Ozil was a picture of composure as he ran through on goal, chipped the keeper and cut inside two defenders before slotting in from close range for a dramatic winner.

Earlier on, Arsenal’s hopes of a repeat of their 6-0 win in the reverse tie were quickly dispelled when Jonathan Cafu put Ludogorets in front against the run of play by steering in a left-footed volley from a Wanderson free-kick.

Cafu turned provider three minutes later as he jinked past Kieran Gibbs and squared a ball for Claudiu Keseru to turn in as the Bulgarian side shocked the Gunners with a second in a frantic opening.

Granit Xhaka guided in a 15-yard shot from an Ozil cross to pull one back for Arsene Wenger’s side before Olivier Giroud expertly headed in Aaron Ramsey’s clipped cross to equalise.

Arsenal keeper David Ospina twice saved from Wanderson before Ozil secured his side’s progress into the last 16 and extended their unbeaten run to 15 games.

One of the highlights of Arsenal’s season so far has been the goalscoring form of Ozil.

The German playmaker has already taken his tally this season to seven, having scored eight for the Gunners in total last term.

He should have opened the scoring early on when Francis Coquelin played him through on goal, but he struck a tame shot that was easily saved.

Ludogorets punished the miss with two goals, but Ozil then played a key part in Arsenal’s recovery as he gesticulated for his team to increase their effort.

He set up Xhaka for his first Champions League goal and timed his run to perfection to meet Mohamed Elneny’s pass on the way to his goal, adding to his hat-trick in the first game against Ludogorets at the Emirates.

Ozil has now been directly involved in eight goals in his past five games for Arsenal in all competitions, with five goals and three assists.

“You wanted Mesut Ozil to take his chance earlier, but in the end he shows he has enough skill to prove he was right. I believe the hardest thing is to be consistent at the top level, but hopefully we can now go further in the competition,” Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger said.

Prior to the match, the Frenchman had said his side’s “prime target” was to

Arsenal’s Mesut Oezil celebrates after scoring the winning goal during their UEFA Champions League Group A match against PFC Ludogorets Razgrad at the Vassil Levski Stadium in Sofia, Bulgaria, last night.

PHOTO: VASSIL DONEV/EPA

win Group A in order to avoid playing tougher opposition.

“We need to maintain the quality of our results until the match against Paris StGermain and then hopefully we will be in a position to finish top of the group,” he repeated at the end of the match in Sofia last night.

The Gunners have gone out at the first knockout stage of the Champions League in the past six seasons, having last won their group in 2011-12.

Wenger’s side showed vulnerabilities at the back when Ludogorets went on the counter-attack, but they demonstrated

spirit and character to recover. This means they could be ready to avoid the capitulations which have marred previous European and Premier League campaigns.

Arsenal’s mental strength will again be tested when they face Tottenham followed by Manchester United in the league before what could be a decider to finish top of Group A when they host Paris St-Germain who also won away at Basel.

The energy and goals of Alexis Sanchez playing as a central striker have proved a major success for Wenger this season.

However, with Giroud returning to

fitness and scoring two key goals in Saturday’s top-flight win at Sunderland, Wenger chose to give the Frenchman his first start of the season against Ludogorets with the job of leading the Gunners’ attack.

Sanchez was shifted out to the left wing and, initially, it seemed to reduce the Chile international’s threat as well as Arsenal’s.

But Giroud did score the equaliser and Wenger now has to decide which attacking formation works best for his side in the key games coming up.

Atletico, Bayern win to progress

Antoine Griezmann (pictured below) scored a last-second winner as Atletico Madrid qualified for the Champions League last 16 alongside Group D rivals Bayern Munich.

The France striker opened the scoring against Rostov with a brilliant flick, but Sardar Azmoun equalised only the fourth time in 19 home Champions League games under Diego Simeone that Atletico have conceded - before Griezmann fired in off the crossbar in injury time.

Bayern won 2-1 at PSV, with Poland striker Robert Lewandowski scoring twice and hitting the woodwork three times - taking his tally for club and country this season to 19 goals in 17 games.

Paris St-Germain also went through thanks to a 2-1 victory at Basel.

Thomas Meunier scored a brilliant late volley for the French champions, who qualified with Arsenal from Group A. A draw would have been sufficient for Unai Emery’s PSG side thanks to Arsenal’s 3-2 win at Ludogorets.

Napoli missed the opportunity to clinch their last-16 place as they drew 1-1 at Besiktas.

Ricardo Quaresma gave the Turkish champions a 78th-minute lead before Marek Hamsik curled home a fantastic 25-yard effort four minutes later.

Benfica beat Dynamo Kiev 1-0 courtesy of Eduardo Salvio’s 45thminute penalty.

Borussia Dortmund will progress if they beat Sporting Lisbon at home tonight while Real Madrid will join them from Group F if they win at Legia Warsaw, providing Dortmund win.Leicester will also go through if they beat FC Copenhagen away in Denmark. A draw would be enough for the Foxes if FC Porto do not beat Club Brugge.

Victory over Lyon will secure Juventus’ place in the last 16, which would mean Sevilla will qualify if they beat Dinamo Zagreb.

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Lamela doubtful as Spurs take on Bayer Leverkusen Tottenham midfielder Erik Lamela is a doubt for tonight’s Champions League group game against Bayer Leverkusen.

The 24-year-old has recovered from the illness that saw him miss the Leicester game on Saturday, but he suffered a hip problem in training on Tuesday.

Spurs will also miss defender Toby Alderweireld and Striker Harry Kane through injury. The away leg ended 0-0 in Germany, with Spurs dominating possession but the home side having better chances.

Midfielder Moussa Sissoko, who is serving a three-match ban for elbowing Bournemouth’s Harry Arter, is available as his suspension affects domestic games only.

Tottenham sit second in Group E on four points, just one point and one place above Bayer Leverkusen with only the top two teams progressing to the knockout phase.

Monaco top the group with five points, while CSKA Moscow sit bottom on two.

Spurs, who finished third in the Premier League to qualify for the Champions League, are playing in European’ football’s elite competition for the first time in five seasons and have won only one of their first three group games.

Kevin Kampl (R) and Lars Bender (L) of Leverkusen fight for the ball with Erik Lamela of Tottham during their first leg UEFA Champions League Group E match at BayArena, Leverkusen, Germany. Lamela is a doubt for tonight’s return leg in London.

PHOTO: MAJA HITIJ/EPA Mauricio Pochettino’s side have not won any of but it’s true that our percentage was poor in their past five games in all competitions, so will front of goal,” Pochettino, 44, said. be looking for an upturn in form as they host the “We need to be more clinical in our offensive situation. We need to be determined and German side at Wembley.

The Argentine’s side took 22 shots during their aggressive in the last third.

1-1 draw Leicester City on Saturday, and have “It’ll be tough but we are conscious that we need to take the three points if we want to go scored only three goals in their past five games.

“We are creating the same chances as before, to the next round.”

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2016

Ranieri urges Leicester to write a new chapter

Manager Claudio Ranieri says Leicester can “write a new chapter” in their history by beating FC Copenhagen to reach the Champions League last 16.

The Foxes, who top Group G, will secure a top-two finish with victory in Denmark, but Copenhagen have not lost at home since August 2015.

“We are very close to achieving something special,” Ranieri said.

Ranieri will not risk record signing Islam Slimani but Ahmed Musa has recovered from a knock at Tottenham.

Musa scored the equaliser in Saturday’s 1-1 Premier League draw at White Hart Lane, a performance Ranieri rated as his side’s best in the league this season.

The Premier League champions beat FC Copenhagen 1-0 at the King Power Stadium last month.

The previous 64 times a side have won their opening three Champions League group games, they have qualified for the next stage.

“We can write a new chapter of Leicester’s story,” said 65-year-old Ranieri.

“But maybe it’s not tomorrow. It’s important to be well organised as I respect Copenhagen a lot.”

Since defeat at Leicester, Copenhagen have won three successive games and are six points clear at the top of the Danish league. They are unbeaten in 28 matches at home.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2016

GRIEZMANN SCORES AS ATLETICO JOINS BAYERN AND PSG INTO THE LAST 16

Mourinho charged by FA

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anchester United manager Jose Mourinho has been given a second Football Association charge in a week following his dismissal during Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Burnley. Mourinho, who on Thursday was charged over comments he made about referee Anthony Taylor, was sent to the Old Trafford stands by Mark Clattenburg.

He is accused of using abusive or insulting words to the officials in or around the tunnel area at halftime. He has until Friday to respond.

The FA have acted after considering Clattenburg’s match report possible punishments include a warning, fine, touchline ban or stadium ban. Mourinho appeared to be upset when United were not awarded a penalty during Saturday’s match, after Jon Flanagan challenged Matteo Darmian inside the Burnley box. The 53-year-old emerged for the second half but was escorted to a seat in the stands before being moved a second time, this time to the directors’ box. He declined to speak to the media after the match.

INSIDE

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Tottenham host Bayer Leverkusen

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Ozil scores late as Arsenal progresses

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City finally come good Germany midfielder Gundogan motors the Blues to a landmark win over Barcelona in a sweet Champions League revenge at the Etihad

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anchester City staged a thrilling comeback to run Barcelona ragged and secure a fully deserved Champions League revenge victory over the Spanish giants at Etihad Stadium last night.

Lionel Messi’s 90th Champions League goal, a counterattacking masterpiece complete with cool finish from Neymar’s pass, put Barcelona in control as half-time approached.

The whole emphasis of the game changed, however, six minutes before the interval when Sergi Roberto’s mistake allowed Raheem Sterling to set up Ilkay Gundogan’s simple finish.

City, seeking their first win over Barcelona at the sixth attempt, were irresistible from then on as Kevin de Bruyne’s free-kick curved past Marc-Andre ter Stegen in the 51st minute.

Andre Gomes crashed a shot against the bar as Barcelona pressed for an equaliser, but City wrapped up a landmark win against manager Pep Guardiola’s former team with 16 minutes left when De Bruyne played in Jesus Navas and, when his cross fell loose from Sergio Aguero, Gundogan was once more on the spot to score.

The result means City will reach the knockout phase of the competition if they win on 23 November at Borussia Monchengladbach, who drew with Celtic on matchday four.

Guardiola’s methods may have been questioned after City’s 4-0 defeat at the Nou Camp, but last night was just the sort of night Manchester City’s Abu Dhabi-based owners had in mind when they finally lured him to the Etihad.

City wanted to make the leap from the second tier of Europe’s clubs into the elite and nights like that, and performances like that, will increase confidence that he is the man who ensures they can bridge that gap.

It was a win achieved with all the Guardiola hallmarks, in a blaze of attacking football, passing, movement and a willingness to take on the best without forsaking his principles.

It was the most significant win of Guardiola’s reign so far - and offered up the rich promise of more to come.

“They had an amazing 30 minutes, we had a lot of problems but our first goal helped us a lot. In the second half we created a lot of counter attacks. I am so happy for the guys, it is the first time we have beaten the best team in the world,” Guardiola said after the match.

Barcelona may have been missing the defensive power of Gerard Pique and the midfield influence of Andres Iniesta, but nothing should be taken away from the manner in which City exerted control and dominated the Catalans once they had equalised. Whereas Barcelona’s big three of Messi, Neymar

Manchester City’s Ilkay Guendogan celebrates after scoring the 1-1 equalizer during their UEFA Champions League Group C match against FC Barcelona in Manchester, Britain, last night.

PHOTO: PETER POWELL/EPA

and Luis Suarez faded, City’s big players came to the fore and terrorised Luis Enrique’s side in the second half.

“It was one of the best 40 minutes we have played on a stage like this against top-quality rivals.

After the error for 1-1 we had a bad time.

When you concede in that way it is normal that you go through a bad period,” Barca boss Luis Enqique said.

Aguero ran with courage, threat and unlimited energy, Raheem Sterling - one piece of poor control aside - was outstanding and was denied a clear penalty early on, while Belgian De Bruyne was peerless.

He scored City’s second, unlocked Barcelona’s defence for the third and looked a player of world class, fully deserving his standing ovation when he was replaced near the end.

City will grow in belief after overpowering Barcelona - and proved they have the players who can trouble the very best teams in the Champions League.

“Today is a good step. We play against a great team and we compete. Now they will realise, ‘Wow, we won against the best team,” added Guardiola.

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