201602025 xnews

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THursday, FEBRUARY 25, 2016 | www.x-news.co.ke

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Carry your own cross, Tna tells nys suspects Party secretary general onyango oloo says those adversely mentioned should Individually deal with their woes without dragging in party politics

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NEWS

Fifa begins search for new president as elections are held in Switzerland

English teams seek to see off europa opponents at home

Uhuru: Kenya woes due to T bad politics

Human rights violations on the rise: Lobby

Story On Page 2

he move by Kenya to step up its counter-terrorism operations has resulted in the rise in extrajudicial executions, enforced disappearances and other human rights violations according to a report by Amnesty International (AI). AI report 2015/16 released yesterday has attributed the extra-judicial executions to the continued attacks in Kenya carried out by al-Shabaab, the Somali-based armed group. “In the context of counter-terrorism operations and the prevailing security situation, hundreds of individuals have disappeared or extra-judicially executed. Civil society organisations, especially those documenting human rights violations in the context of security operations, were accused of being breeding ground for terrorism,” reads part of the report. The report indicates that human rights organisations reporting on violations by security agencies during operations were increasingly harassed. Some civil society organisations were shut down or threatened with closure through judicial or administrative measures.

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President Uhuru Kenyatta when he delivered a joint state address with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel on Tuesday. He yesterday told Kenyans in the mid East nation that Kenya’s economic dip is due to bad politics in the country. PHOTO: AMIR COHEN/EPA

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EBOLA AND HEALTH New study links virus to long-lasting problems to survivors


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NEWS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2016

Uhuru: Kenya woes down to bad politics

President Uhuru Kenyatta has blamed bad politics for Kenya’s slow economic growth. In an address to Kenyans living in Israel where he is on official state visit, President Kenyatta said Kenya has the capacity to develop just like his host country but cannot do so because Kenyans have lost focus due to bad politics. A visibly frustrated Kenyatta told his audience that he was going to be very sincere and honest with them before he referred to his countrymen as “expert thieves and nags” who lack focus to develop their country. “I don’t want to lie to you. I’ve been asked by our hosts why we can’t do these things at home. It’s because of bad politics,” he said in Kiswahili. “Where people are focused, what can they not achieve?” he posed. He cited the Galana irrigation project, saying it has been derailed by constant criticism and fighting in what appeared to have been aimed at politicians and cartels scrambling for tenders. “If you look at Galana, we’ve been fighting for almost three to four years…oh this project this, oh this project that,” he said to the group that also included Kenyan students who are learning dryland farming and automated agriculture in Israel. Mr Kenyatta said Kenya is 20 times more endowed than Israel yet Kenyans just complain and steal at the expense of developing their country.

Human rights violations on the rise, says Amnesty From Page 1

President Uhuru Kenyatta looks up at photographs in the cardinal shaped “Hall of Fame” during a ceremony to honor the six million Jews who perished at the hands of the Nazis during the Holocaust of World War II in the Yad Vashem Holocaust Museaum in Jerusalem on Tuesday. PHOTO: ABIR SULTAN/EPA

“As Kenyans, God has given us a country 20 times better than here (Israel). But when we walk, it’s all about complaining and stealing…we have become experts,” he said, amid giggles from the audience. His comments came on the evening of a day that saw the beginning of a political storm within his ruling Jubilee coalition following blames and counter blames by those adversely mention in the Sh791 million NYS scandal. Corruption now appears to be the cancer

that is quickly eating up Kenya. Only last November, President Kenyatta made a personal appeal to Pope Francis to pray for him as he takes the vice head on. A few days earlier, he had sacked five members of his Cabinet who were mentioned in graft. His comments in Jerusalem echoes those issued by Chief Justice Willy Mutunga who last year referred to Kenya as a bandit economy controlled by selfish and dangerous cartels. peter_x254

Carry your own cross, TNA tells NYS suspects Those named in the National Youth Service (NYS) scandal should take individual responsibility and stop dragging the Jubilee coalition in to their woes, The National Alliance (TNA) Secretary General Onyango Oloo has said. Addressing the media today, Oloo said the individuals named in Waiguru’s damning affidavit should defend and exonerate themselves before the constitutional bodies instead of dragging the coalition in their personal problems. “Individuals accused or held culpable drawn from either wing of the coalition should defend themselves before the right state agencies and should not expect the coalition to wade into the matter in their defence,” he stated. He said the coalition was still strong and unshakable even after allegations that the affidavit sworn by the embattled ex CS for devolution implicated members of the URP wing of the Coalition.

“The Jubilee coalition is strong and unshakable even after rumours being peddled that Waiguru was out to malign members of the URP party. It was not a party of two members, it was a coalition of parties and not individuals,” Oloo said. In her affidavit, Waiguru Implicated majority leader Adan Duale and Senator Kipchumba Murkomen been involved in the fraudulent deals that led to the loss of Sh791 million from the youth agency. Majority Leader Aden Duale and Senate Deputy Majority Leader Kipchumba Murkomen yesterday denied any wrong doing and accused Waiguru of trying to divide Jubilee. Mr Duale, while addressing a press conference at parliament buildings; said he was named in the explosive affidavit as having told Mr Harakhe that he needed political support as it was the URP wing that was being fought, asked Waiguru to carry her own cross. wilson_x254

The report also cited various incidents in the country where they feel human rights and freedom were infringed by the government. The report indicated that calls to close Dadaab Refuge Cam led by Deputy President William Ruto would have amounted to a violation of Kenya’s obligations under international law and put hundreds of thousands of lives at risk. “Around 350,000 Somali refugees were at risk of being forcibly returned to Somalia, which would amount to a violation of Kenya’s obligations under international law and put hundreds of thousands of lives at risk. There were also at least 250,000 refugees from other countries. Forcibly returning them would have put them at risk of human rights abuses, such as rape and killings,” reads the report. Kenya is a party to the UN Refugee Convention and the African Union Convention Governing the Specific Aspects of Refugee Problems in Africa. The report documents the state of human rights in 160 countries and territories during 2015. In many regions, large numbers of refugees were on the move against a backdrop of conflict and repression. Torture and failure to uphold sexual and reproductive rights were key concerns. The report noted that government surveillance and impunity continued to deny many their rights. It also indicates that even though African Union (AU) declared 2016 as the Year of Human Rights in Africa, no significant headway in addressing entrenched human rights challenges has been achieved. “Conflict, political instability, authoritarian regimes, and poverty and humanitarian disasters continued to deny most people in Africa their rights, security and dignity. Africa was also presented with real opportunities with social and economic developments evident in countries that are relatively peaceful,” reads the report. Countries such as Central African Republic (CAR), Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Sudan, South Sudan and Somalia recorded serious violations and abuses of international humanitarian and human rights law due to the constant war as impunity remains a key cause and driver of conflicts and instability. Despite some progress, there was little or no accountability for crimes under international law committed by security forces and armed groups in Cameroon, CAR, DRC, Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan and Sudan. The report also indicates that civic space remained closed in countries such as Eritrea, Ethiopia and Gambia deteriorated, with freedoms of expression, association and peaceful assembly increasingly restricted. Peaceful assemblies were also disrupted with brutal and excessive force, including in Angola, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Chad, the Republic of Congo, DRC, Ethiopia, Guinea, South Africa, Togo and Zimbabwe. In South Africa, excessive force was used as a “clean up” operation to remove undocumented immigrants.


NEWS 3 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2016

Needy pupils given uniforms

SELFIE MOMENT: Nairobi deputy Governor Jonathan Mueke takes a photo with pupils at Valley Ridge primary school in Mathare yesterday after distributing uniforms to them.

Governors in fresh bid to end protracted wars with senators

The Council of Governors is currently engaging Senate Speaker Ekwe Ethuro in a new bid to end the perennial spats between governors and senators. Council of Governors chairman Peter Munya said personal differences between the county chiefs and senators should not be used to derail devolution. He said they are working together with the office of the Senate Speaker to create more institutions where senators and governors can deliberate on issues of devolution and have a good working relationship. “The public spat that we see between governors and senators should not be used to block institutional framework where we can engage and talk more about devolution,” Munya said. The Meru Governor made the remarks on Tuesday when he appeared before a joint Health and Transport committee of the Senate. Munya said both Governors and Senators are constitutionally mandated to protect devolution hence the constant feuds is not good. “All of us want devolution to succeed for the benefit of the public that we all serve, why then should individual differences derail such a noble idea,” asked Munya. “We wrote to the Senate Speaker last week asking for a consultative forum where we can widen consultation forums with Senators who are constitutionally mandated to protect devolution,” Munya added. Wiper Democratic Movement nominated Senator Judith Sijeny said it was not good for Governors to keep fighting Senators and at

the same time demand that the Senate protect them when in trouble especially with the national government over allocation of funds. “Governors keep going to courts whenever the Senate makes a decision they deem will not benefit them, this should not be the case but dialogue should be encouraged all the time,” Sijeny said. The nominated senator attributed the acrimonious relationship between Governors and Senators to politics which she said should not be used to deny the public the much needed services. “Let political matters be separated from issues of devolution. Governors should work together with Senators,” he said. “We are here to help you and not to fight you, you should also therefore listen to us when we oppose some of your demands,” said Kisii County Senator Chris Obure. Lamu County Senator Abu Chiaba, however, told Munya that Governors have always disrespected Senators and the trend need to change if the harmonious working relationship is to be achieved. “I want to be very candid with you Mr Chairman, you and your team have always disregarded Senators and that is wrong,” he said. Munya assured the Senators that they are ready to work with them for the sake of devolution. The relationship between a section of Governors and Senators have been frosty following public declaration by some Senators that they will unseat the County Chiefs in the 2017 General Elections. @sam_x254

Needy and poor pupils of Valley Ridge, Old Mathari and Kiboro Primary Schools in Nairobi’s Mathare constituency were yesterday presented with school uniforms as part of the Ficha Uchi initiative which aims at covering student’s ‘nakedness. Nairobi County deputy Governor who gave out the uniforms said the plight of students in torn uniforms is often ignored yet it negatively affects their performance in school. “Children going to school without uniform is something we often take for granted but in actual fact, millions of children across the continent go to school either with torn uniform or without any at all. Realizing that this is a major challenge, one that can affect children’s progress at school, as the County government we have decided to ensure poor and needy children are clothed through donation of school uniforms to hide their nakedness,” Mr Mueke who is also the patron of the initiative said. He noted that education is integral in any country’s economy saying an educated society has the ability to innovate and further create opportunities and therefore generate wealth. He said the county government will continue supporting all initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life education of children in Nairobi City County. “Education is life and that is why everybody

should take it seriously and play their part in ensuring that our children have access to quality education as this is a key priority and blue print of H.E the governor, Dr Evans Kidero and myself ’. The Ficha Uchi initiative is aimed at ensuring that pupils stay in school by the providing them with uniforms as well as raising the children’s self-confidence, esteem by making sure they take pride in themselves. Says the Deputy Governor “Similar projects are ongoing in Kibra Olympic primary school where a new block is being built, Mathari, Dandora, Kawangware and Karen.” In April last year, the county government disbursed bursaries worth Sh24 million to 300 poor, deserving, academically endowed and needy students in Nairobi as part of the Governors’ Executive Bursary that started in 2014. This is in addition to the bursary scheme administered by the 85 Members of the County Assembly. This is a radical departure from the existing bursary arrangements where no consideration was given to specific case needs and a flat rate of Kshs 5,000 was allocated to each student without caring what would happen to them in subsequent terms. @peter_x254

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NEWS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY25, 2016

‘Ebola survivors to suffer long-term effect’ Most people who survive an Ebola infection FORGOTTEN?: One of will have long-lasting health problems, say the 2007/08 PEV victims doctors from the US National Institutes of of rape Jackline Matere Health. speaks at a forum to Their studies on survivors in Liberia commemorate Wagalla showed large numbers had developed massacra victims at a Nairobi hotel last weakness, memory loss and depressive week. A lobby has told symptoms in the six months after being the government to discharged from an Ebola unit. compensate the victims. Other patients were “actively suicidal” or still having hallucinations. More than 17,000 people in West Africa have survived Ebola infection. The evidence, being presented at the annual meeting of the Academy of Neurology, is an early glimpse at a much wider study of long-term health problems after Ebola. The initial analysis, on 82 survivors, showed most had severe neurological problems at the height of the infection, including meningitis, hallucinations or falling into a coma. Six months later, new long-term problems had developed. About two-thirds had body weakness, while regular headaches, depressive symptoms and memory loss were found in A nurse tests the temprature of a man before entering a hospital in Monrovia, Liberia on November 25, 2015. half of patients. New study shows Ebola infection could have-lasting health effects on survivors. PHOTO: A JALLANZO/EPA Two of the patients had been actively suicidal at the time of the assessment. of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, told the population of patients, and we wouldn’t Dr Lauren Bowen, from the National Institute BBC: “It was pretty striking, this is a young expect to have seen these sorts of problems.

“When people had memory loss, it tended to affect their daily living, with some feeling they couldn’t return to school or normal jobs, some had terrible sleeping problems. “Ebola hasn’t gone away for these people.” Infection with Ebola ravages the body. Some of the symptoms could improve with time as the body heals, others may be down to social trauma as many survivors are ostracised from their families and communities. But other symptoms, including eye problems, indicate damage to the brain, which may not heal. Meanwhile, data presented earlier, at the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections, raised concerns about sexual transmission of the virus in survivors. It indicated 38 per cent of men had tested positive for Ebola in their semen on at least one occasion in the year after recovering. And in the most extreme case, Ebola had been detected 18 months later. Yet most survivors reported being sexually active, with only four in every 100 using a condom.

US high-tech dream team to combat terrorism online Seeking to bolster its effort to counter ISIS messaging on social media, the Obama administration is assembling something of a high-tech dream team to battle the terrorist group online. At a meeting conducted at the Justice Department on Wednesday, executives from Apple, Twitter, Snapchat, Facebook, MTV and Buzzfeed offered their input to

top counter intelligence officials, according to an industry source familiar with the meeting. Nick Rasmussen, Director of the National Counterterrorism Center, told the group the administration is making strides in combating ISIS on social media, where the terrorist army has inspired potential lone wolf assailants to carry out attacks. “We’ve seen more aggressive

takedowns across social media platforms, which is a really good thing,” Rasmussen was quoted as saying by the source at the gathering. Apple’s participation in the meeting is notable, given the high-tech firm’s clash with the administration over the company’s use of encryption to shield customers’ data on its popular smart phones. Representatives for the White House

and the Department of Justice declined to say whether the standoff with Apple arose in Wednesday’s meeting. An agenda of the session obtained by CNN showed nearly fifty technology firms and community groups participated, along with a crosssection of U.S. government agencies, including the Justice Department, the National Security Council and

the State Department. The British Embassy was also included in the manifest. The agenda showed sessions dedicated to briefing the technology companies on ISIS’s messaging strategy, and developing plans to counteract the terrorist propaganda with “counter-narratives and optimistic messaging.”

Top stories from X News global partners Republican Race Puts Vladimir Putin takes Donald Trump and personal charge of Syria Paul Ryan on Collision ceasefire effort: Vladimir Putin has taken personal charge of efforts to turn Course: Speaker Paul D. Ryan, a Syrian ceasefire into reality this weekend, holding a frantic round of phone calls with world leaders and instructing the Russian military to reduce the number of airstrikes over the past two days. The Russian president spoke by phone to leaders in Iran, Saudi Arabia, Israel and Syria in an attempt to garner support for the ceasefire, and explain its complex details. He has also opened a coordination centre to which the warring parties can send complaints of specific breaches of the truce. Some armed groups in Syria have already signed up to the truce, according to Russia. www.theguardian.com

chairman of the Republican National Convention, recent vice-presidential candidate and the highest elected Republican in the country, has one goal for this year: to form a conservative policy agenda for the Republican presidential nominee to embrace. If that nominee is Donald J. Trump, that may be a waste of time. Panicked Republicans question whether Mr. Trump will be able to unite a Republican-controlled Congress that would normally be expected to promote and promulgate his agenda, an internal crisis nearly unheard-of in a generation of American politics. www.nytimes.com

Evo Morales’s Bouygues ultimatum referendum defeat is over Orange talks: the latest setback for Bouygues is prepared to walk away talks with Orange over the sale South America’s hard from of its telecoms unit unless it receives a left: Although he has more than stake of at least 10 per cent of the French three years left of his current term as Bolivia’s president, Evo Morales called a referendum for February 21st to change the constitution to allow him to run for a fourth term in 2020. This excess of forward planning in a region accustomed to last-minute improvisation smacked of nervousness about tougher times ahead in Bolivia. It backfired: with nearly all of the votes counted, the “No” vote stood at 51.3%. Albeit narrowly, Bolivians have inflicted on Mr Morales his first serious electoral defeat since he was elected in 2005. www.economist.com

operator. The Paris-based construction and telecoms conglomerate has been in intense negotiations with the market leader for at least a month over a potential tie-up that would reduce the number of competitors in France from four to three. But Martin Bouygues, chairman and chief executive of the group, said on Wednesday that he only put the chances of a successful outcome at 50 per cent. “If we don’t reach a winwin deal for everyone, we will pursue our standalone strategy,” he said of Bouygues Telecom. www.ft.com

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NEWS 5 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2016

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xnews | THURsday, FEBRUARY 25, 2016 | www.x-news.co.ke

BUSINESS

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

Kenya to adopt food trade rules

New policies to raise the standard and quality of food traded locally will be implemented in the next three months, Industrialisation and Trade Cabinet Secretary Aden Mohammed has said. The CS said the policies being crafted in collaboration with the Kenya Bureau of Standards (Kebs) and the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC), will target to raise to international standards the food being traded in the country and regionally. “We are crafting new policies to raise the standards of food being traded with the country and by June we should be set to unveil them,” said Mohammed while officiating the handover of FAO-CAC offices report from Cameroon to Kenya where it will lead other 49 nations that have subscribed to FAO in the next three years. Kebs managing director Charles Ongwae termed the move a major milestone for Codex food and feed standardisation and step in the right direction. The CS said the country had adopted more than 200 Codex food standard policies to protect the health of consumers and facilitate food trade. CAC is recognised as the biggest intergovernmental organisation body which takes into account concerns while ensuring fair practices in the food trade thus preventing fraud, deceptive practices, avoiding unjustified barriers to the food trade. According to Ongwae, Kebs adopts 90 per cent of Codex standards and they are implemented as national

standards to ensure safety of food for consumers. “The success story of Kenya’s export industry illustrates how adopting international standards on all our produce can serve as a catalyst for trade,” said Ongwae. Mohammed urged Kebs and other institutions to embrace the proposed policies set by Codex so as to harness their ideology. “By taking the lead in Codex

standards meetings, the Kenya Food Industry will secure its position in the world market and stimulate action on regulatory issues” noted Mohamed. Kebs has adopted over 200 Codex Food Standards and several codes of practice to protect the health of consumers and facilitate trade. Codex food standards are also used when harmonising EAC-COMESA standards and whenever there is

wilson_x254

Industrialisation and Trade Cabinet Secretary Aden Mohammed has said new policies to raise the standard and quality of food traded locally will be implemented in the next three months.

BUY SELL 101.6889 101.8824 143.4239 143.7472 111.8928 112.1461 6.7084 6.7262 33.3718 33.5337 21.4365 21.5765

Barclays Bank makes foray into high-tech mobile phone card pay Barclays Bank Kenya has launched a next-generation mobile card payment solution. The new payment method will enable Kenyans to pay for low value transactions with ease, speed and convenience.The Barclays Mobile Point of Sale (MPOS) is a small phone-like GPRS device that accepts all VISA, MasterCard and AMEX cards as a payment option on the go. MPOS is designed as an ideal platform for making card payments for home deliveries, transportation, entertainment spots among others. All transactions processed through MPOS terminal follow the same transactional and payment flows as that of the traditional POS system. Speaking during the launch of MPOS, Barclays Bank Kenya, Managing director, Jeremy Awori said MPOS addresses the growing demand for innovative payment solutions. “We are proud to be the first financial institution in East Africa to rollout the MPOS card payment solution. I strongly believe that there exists enough room in the mobile card payment space for competitors to emerge and gain a competitive advantage,” said Awori. Barclays Bank has partnered with Pewin taxi Cab Company, to rollout the solution to its customers on a pilot project. The bank is also in the process of establishing partnerships with other firms. Barclays Bank in celebrating its 100th anniversary in Kenya. Kevin_x254

Tech savvy Kenyans banking on mobile money as lenders battle out Tech savvy consumers are rapidly adopting new forms of saving and opening new bank accounts as local lenders fight it out for a larger portion of the country’s financial services market. According to a survey from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), the Central Bank and financial services group FSD Kenya, the number of Kenyans using at least one saving or deposit instrument has gone up by 18 per cent since 2013. Since then, there has been substantial growth in the use of groups including Accumulating Savings and Credit Associations (ASCAs) and Rotating Savings and Credit Association (ROSCAs), also known as Chamas. The proportion of adults saving in a secret place has also risen since

dispute in EAC trading within the region. Other countries which have been appointed to coordinate for their regions include India ( Asia), Netherlands for Europe, Chile (Latin) America and Caribbean, Iran for Near East and Vanuatu for North America and South West Pacific.

MEAN 101.7856 143.5856 112.0194 6.7173 33.4527 21.5061

2013. Growth in bank accounts has been driven by mobile bank accounts that include platforms like Mshwari and KCB M-Pesa while conventional bank savings accounts have decreased over the last decade. “Kenyans are increasingly using a portfolio of financial services instead of relying exclusively on one type of service such as an informal source, a bank or a SACCO,” said the research, which was published in the 2015 FinAccess Household Survey. In fact, 60 per cent of the population uses two or more types of financial services compared to about 19 per cent ten years ago, while 35 per cent of the population use three or more. The study, which was released by the Central Bank of Kenya

(CBK), has also found that men’s usage of financial services providers is higher than women’s, with the exception of informal providers and Monetary Financial Institutions (MFIs). It has emerged that the usage of different financial services providers is higher in urban areas. “The usage of all types of financial services providers increases with wealth, especially for the formal providers, where there is a big gap between the top quintile and the rest. However, informal providers are widely used by all wealth bands,” said the report. “It has been revealed that mobile banking has been well received among youth aged 18 to 25 years reaching parity with the uptake of traditional bank Dennis_x254 accounts.

Kenya among continent’s top countries for mergers Despite recent cases of economic uncertainty, Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa have been cited as the continent’s most attractive target countries for merger and acquisition activity (M&A activity). According to the fourth edition of ‘Deal Drivers Africa’, published by merger market and independent global business risk consultancy firm, Control Risks these three nations are setting the pace for development in the region. “Despite political turmoil in many countries, a prolonged downturn in the commodities cycle and related currency risk, Africa’s top economies have maintained investor interest with strong momentum in M&A across the majority of sectors,” reads a statement from Control Risks. Kenya’s status as an ideal investment destination has also been confirmed in a Harvard Business Review study

dubbed ‘Sub-Saharan Africa’s Most and Least Resilient Economies’, where the country featured among the top ten most resilient economies out of a list of 45 countries. The Review stated that Kenya was featured in a list of countries that display robust growth across sectors and are benefiting from good governance, sound political reforms, and improving business environments. “East African markets Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania also enjoy strong trade integration with each other, which gives the region additional scale, as it allows businesses to easily operate across borders. And despite subdued growth rates compared to historical levels, Nigeria remains by far the largest market across different industries and one of the most resilient markets,” said the Harvard report.


BUSINESS 7

Appetite for loans steady despite increase in interest rates: Report THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2016

Consumers and corporations alike have maintained a steady appetite for loans despite a volatile economic environment, new data has revealed. The demand for loans remained stable towards the end of 2015 despite local banks citing an increase in interest rates, according to the Central Bank of Kenya’s Credit Officer Survey for January to December. The survey, conducted in January 2016, targeted senior credit officers of all 40 operational commercial banks and 1 mortgage finance company. Charterhouse Bank Ltd and Imperial Bank Ltd which were under statutory management were excluded from the survey, the CBK confirmed. During the quarter under review, 60 per cent of banks indicated that interest rates had increased. Some of the respondents cited high cost of funds and high Treasury Bill rates as the reasons that led to increased interest

rates. However, 38 per cent of lenders said interest rates fell while 3 per cent said they remained the same. The report comes barely a week after CBK Governor Patrick Njoroge urged local banks to lower rates in order to boost economic growth. Njoroge, who was appearing before Parliament’s Finance Committee mid this month, said banks have been told to look into the long-term benefits of lower interest rates as the CBK encourages local lenders to lower the cost of loans. According to the survey, the credit officers of commercial banks perceived that the demand for credit generally remained constant in the four quarters of 2015. “A comparison of the 11 economic sectors shows that the credit officers perceived that the highest growth in demand for credit was witnessed in Trade, Personal/ Household and Building & Construction sectors,” the CBK said in a statement

CBK to give timelines on new currency rollout The Central Bank of Kenya is expected to brief the Senate on the time-frames of a planned unveiling and rolling out of the country’s new currency. (CBK) Governor Patrick Njoroge will table the brief following a directive from Senate acting Deputy Speaker Wilfred Machage. Njoroge is expected to addresses an informal sitting of the Upper House after members were unsatisfied by a response statement submitted by the Senate Finance Committee which was looking into the matter. Senators Boni Khalwale (Kakamega), Henry Ndiema (Trans-Nzoia) and Elizabeth Ongoro (nominated) said the delay to beat to the September 2015 deadline as required by the Constitution had triggered speculation that the government may have had a change of mind on the plan. “The matters raised in this House on this issue are so important and so strongly put and worded. I am not pleased with the chair’s performance today on that answer. I order that the Governor of the Central Bank is invited to address the House in a Kamukunji,” Machage ruled. Mandera Senator Billow

Kerrow who chairs the Senate Finance committee had told members that they had been assured that process for the launch of the new currency had been set in motion and was nearing completion but as it appeared, the members were not convinced that was the case. “First of all we are told that the design is so scientific and so technical that it takes five years to arrive at it. I think there is nothing so technical in designing a currency, and public participation is something we have always done, we can do it within a week. I think we can be given a better answer,” Hon. Henry Ndiema said. “There’s no doubt that this is a technical and complex matter, because of the national security implications of trying to get all those things into place and I think Senator Ole Ndiema knows he has worked on the ID cards, he knows how long it takes even to rollout the new generation ID cards, in that regard I would seek the indulgence of the House to consult further on the time frames,” noted Senator Kerrow. kevin_x254

released yesterday. During the first quarter of the year the perceived demand for credit generally remained constant in six economic sectors driven by available investment opportunities, cost of borrowing, issuance of debt securities and equity, the Kenya Bankers Reference Rate (KBRR) and retention of CBR at 8.5 per cent. “This trend was also observed in the second and third quarters of 2015. In Q4 of

2015, perceived demand for credit generally remained constant in eight economic sectors and increased in three economic sectors,” the CBK noted. The eight economic sectors that recorded unchanged demand for credit were Agriculture, Manufacturing, Mining and Quarrying, Energy and Water, Tourism, Transport, Real Estate and Financial Services while the three economic sectors that

recorded increased demand for credit were Trade, Building and Personal/Household. In 2015, credit standards generally remained unchanged for all the eleven economic sectors as most of the factors that influence changes on banks credit standards had little impact. This supports the finding that credit standards to all economic sectors generally remained unchanged in the four quarters under review. This seems to indicate that

banks adopted conservative credit policies in 2015 as was the case in 2014. Local lenders have, over the review period, suffered under the presser of non-performing loans, which refers to credit on which the borrower is not making interest payments. For the first quarter of 2016, most banks expect the levels of non-performing loans to generally remain constant across the economic sectors. Dennis_x254


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BUSINESS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2016

Power connection not keeping up with Africa’s population increase, says report Electrification in Africa has barely kept pace with population growth within the continent, a report from Global Energy Advocate with Practical Action has said. These concerns were reached after studies revealed that the number of Africans cooking with solid fuels has increased to 747 million people up from 708 million indicating that access to clean energy cooking fuel has not kept pace with overall population growth. However, according to the energy advocates, to reach SDG7, Africa will need to electrify over 60 million people annually, more than double its current performance of 24 million. “What this shows is that universal access by 2030 may not be achievable using conventional approaches, yet still remains within reach as long as we focus on providing basic, but meaningfulforms of access,” said Aaron Leopold, Global Energy Advocate with Practical Action. “The evidence shows that many of the human development impacts of electrification are achievable with relatively modest amounts of electricity consumption.” The call comes after a new World Bank report revealed that more than 70 per cent of Africa’s total energy consumption comes from renewable sources. According to the report, Africa’s rate of electricity access rose from 32per cent in 2010 to 35 per cent

Ethiopia, Nigeria and South Africa were among the fastest moving countries globally in terms of expanding electrification from 2010-2012. in 2012, while 25 million people a year got access, electrification is barely keeping pace with population growth. ‘’As of 2012, about 35 per cent of Africans had access to electricity, up from 32 per cent in 2010, according to the “Progress Toward Sustainable Energy: Global Tracking Framework 2015” report. Africa is showing signs of significant

change. At the continent’s annual Energy Indaba event, the World Bank shared the most recent evidence of Africa’s progress towards SDG7 and stimulated a discussion about Africa’s prospects for meeting the new global targets. Ethiopia, Nigeria and South Africa were among the fastest moving countries globally in terms of expanding electrification from 2010-

2012. Countries like Mali, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo expanded electrification more rapidly than their own populations are growing, and bold targets and electrification programs have been adopted in countries like Kenya and Rwanda. So countries must also determine what level of access makes sense to

LG V10 pushing boundaries in innovation Technology keeps evolving at a rapid pace. Most people can’t keep up; before you have grasped the functionality of a new technology another arises. The smartphone world is constantly evolving. Many people cannot operate without their phones and this makes them feel a sense of disconnection to the world. A recent study discovered that the average person checks their device 85 times a day. Given the smartphone usage craze, many device manufacturers are striving to make their devices to have a global appeal. This is has been achieved by making your phone able to connect to other home appliances and devices as well as being able to capture moments instantaneously , edit and share it on social media platforms. Recently, in a bid to capture the emerging youthful market globally, LG launched the LG V10 which has been built with disruptive technology. Disruptive technology in Smartphones has recently began to rival dedicated cameras to the point of threatening to one day dethrone even the expensive SLRs in their ability to capture images. Photos captured via smartphones now dominate uploads on photography and social media sites by young social

media driven consumers who are conscious of personalized results. In this IoT era, Social media allows for virtually “instant sharing” of imagery and reporting by way of camera/ video ready smartphones that have revolutionized the way digital content is consumed. The dual 80-degree and 120-degree front facing cameras is perfect for the selfie lovers. One of the coolest camera features on the V10 is called Gesture shot. You can take a selfie by holding your open hand up to the camera and then closing it into a fist. The feature actually works really well, and it can come in handy quite often. Gesture shot is enabled by default, so all you have to do is use it. What makes LGV10 ergonomic in a smartphone saturated space is it features such as a bezel, a 3,000mAh replaceable battery and expandable storage. It is also first phablet to have a manual video mode giving users more control

over the color balance, ISO, shutter speed and focus. Further, the LG V10 utilizes a 16 MP camera and a 5 MP front facing camera with additional manual settings features in both camera and video mode that gives more detail, more colors and more camera modes to relive your favorite moments. Complex functions such as shutter speed, frame rates, ISO, white balance and focus can all be easily adjusted. It can also record footage in a cinematic 21:9 ratio. Other notable V10 features are wind noise filter and audio monitor that allows users to adjust the sensitivity of the phone’s three mics during recording.The LG V10 is also installed with an IR blasters. An IR blaster is what remotes use to communicate with a television to turn it on, adjust volume, change channels, etc. This makes it easier than having to fumble for a remote. Kevin_x254

try and achieve by 2030, and how that could differ for urban, periurban and rural areas. In fact, Africa will need to ensure that 71 million people each year gain access to clean cooking fuels, which is more than 14 times its most recent performance. “Unlike electricity, expanding access to clean cooking does not appear to have been such a priority for policymakers,” said Anita Marangoly George, Senior Director of the World Bank’s Energy and Extractives Global Practice. “This is worrisome given the heavy health burden carried by women and children inhaling smoke from traditional cooking practices.” And even though Africa is only beginning to tap its vast hydro, geothermal, wind and solar resources, it already gets 9 per cent of its energy and 21per cent of its electricity from these modern renewables, putting it ahead of Asia in this regard. In fact, an estimated $50-80 billion is required each year to reach all of the Sustainable Energy for All (SE4All) objectives in Africa. And private investment is crucial to making that happen. “What we need is for stakeholders, governments, civil society, energy suppliers and consumers work towards achieving sustainable energy for all,” said Anita Marangoly George. “Ending energy poverty by 2030 is something that we can achieve.” enock_x254

Weak global economy vulnerable to adverse shocks, warns IMF The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said the global economy has weakened further and warned it was “highly vulnerable to adverse shocks”. It said the weakening had come “amid increasing financial turbulence and falling asset prices”. The IMF’s report comes before the meeting of G20 finance ministers and central bank governors in Shanghai later this week, BBC reports. It said China’s slowdown was adding to global economic growth concerns since China’s economy, the second-biggest in the world, is growing at the slowest rate in 25 years. “Growth in advanced economies is modest already under the baseline, as low demand in some countries and a broad-based weakening of potential growth continue

to hold back the recovery,” the Washington-based IMF said. “Adding to these headwinds are concerns about the global impact of China’s transition to more balanced growth, along with signs of distress in other large emerging markets, including from falling commodity prices.” The IMF also noted any future prospects for global growth “could be derailed by market turbulence, the oil price crash and geopolitical conflicts”. The agency has called on the G20 group to plan new mechanisms to protect the most vulnerable countries. Earlier this year, the IMF downgraded its forecast for global economic growth. It now expects economic activity to increase by 3.4 per cent this year followed by 3.6 per cent in 2017.


THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2016

ACCESS topstory

FASHION scoop

11

Same Sex Love by mackLemore and LewiS iS having expLoSive meSSage that encourageS, beckonS and SanctifieS Same Sex reLationShipS to itS LiStenerS

WHAT OTHERS SAY… The ban on the Same Love has elicited mixed reaction on social media with the word SAME LOVE trending immediately after the ban. It was also interesting to learn that a gay dating site according to recent released stats has more traffic than LinkedIn or even WhatsApp! According to the survey, more people were registered on the said site and were meeting daily, in fact the banned video is still trending therein. Here is what KOT is saying about the ban and the gay agenda in general; To begin with @DisChiqCaro wondered, “So the producer of that “SAME LOVE” remix, really thought it would be a hit in Kenya??? SMH.” Zawadi Nyongo who noted “I guess

Jaws dropped in late 2009 after two men of Kenyan origin tied the knot in London. A gay marriage. A one of its kind in Kenyan history. This marked the beginning of the never ending debate about same sex liaisons. However, after the nuptial bliss and sufficient conjugal exchanges the couple of Charles Ngengi, 40 and his bride, Daniel Chege Gichia, 39 are said to have divorced two years later. But before the dust settled, and the whispers faded another man took on the whims of gender debate after being the first open Kenyan man to start transitioning into a woman! Mr. Jackson Irungu aka Miss Jay decided to shock the world by announcing on his social pages, “Feeling like I have been living in the wrong body for as long as I can remember. Finally decided to open up to the word! As we ponder and await on whether the sex change was successful, videos encouraging same sex liaisons are now haunting the Kenya Film and

Classification Board. A video which has some parts of it shot in Kenya and is said to be promoting same sex marriage has been banned. According to the Kenya Film and Classification Board these are efforts “to save the souls and morals of our children from the current wave of same sex occurrences and rhetoric that are is on the rise.” Same Sex Love by Macklemore and Lewis is having explosive message that encourages, beckons and sanctifies same sex relationships to its listeners. The words and images, according to KFCB, are utterly disgraceful and the original version had been banned before. This has resulted in the board writing to Google and YouTube and requesting them to block any further distribution and circulation of the film in Kenya. Further the creators of the film content are being sought. But

The

GAY AGENDA 254… @duncan_x254

HOT First Lady warms up for marathon

F

irst Lady Margarete Kenyatta today invited the press to warm up with her in readiness for her upcoming beyond Zero half marathon. Her Excellency did a number of warm up exercises before jogging around the tracks of the stadium flanked by journalists, some government dignitaries including staff members of her office were also in attendance.

TOPICS

who gives KFCB the moral authority to decide what happens behind closed doors? Early last year a National Gay and Lesbians body was legitimized to protect the rights of Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals and Trans genders (LGBT) by the court of appeal even after efforts by the Church to have the body banned. In addition more concerns have been raised worldwide, with the clergy, in some religious institutions accepting to be conformers of same sex liaisons. And as if this is not enough, renowned Televangelist Joel Osteen received sufficient internet blows after claiming that “God approves and loves everyone, including gays.” Sentiments that did

it’s another MUTE MUTE kind of day. Sad how every time queer folk preach love, homophobes preach HATE. Still #LoveWins “ She later recanted “ @ ZawadiNyongo Ok ok. I won’t watch “Same Love” again! I won’t share it. I won’t talk about it. I won’t even dream about it!” Others expressed worry like @Siva_ Sivaprasad “How can we have the quality of seeing all equally and treating all people with same love and respect?” But there are those who made their opinions clear like @PhilChard “This video depicts homosexual love scenes and has been banned in Kenya. I wish it got banned for its horrible bars also.”

not auger well with his audience and part of his 45 000 plus flock who include Oprah Winfrey. As the debate rages on and KFCB manning its frontier on distribution of content that deplores moral of the Kenyan society, the big question is how best should this delicate issue be tackled? How best is KFCB planning to address the issue given that the board, preliminary investigation show that “incidents of sodomy and other kinds of bestiality are on the rise in Kenya.”?

Black models’ lips sparks racist slur

A

amito Lagum, a super model with unique lips has received scathing attacks that turned to be racist after she posted her lips on her social media pages. Aamito’s lips, which appear to be slightly enhanced had her mocked for not loving her natural self. However, Aamito stood firm responding that she is fearfully and wonderfully made.

Aamito Lagum


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ACCESS

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26th NOVEMBER 25, 20162014

CAMPUSVIBE

all round news and updates from universities

Strathmore awards scholarships to two high school students

Get ready for Africa Model United Nations conference

D

elegates are currently receiving training for the Africa Model United Nations at the USIU-A. The 3rd annual conference or this year is scheduled to run from the 21st to 25th of next month at the United Nations and USIU is playing the host institution. This year’s Conference’s theme is “Africa Arise: embracing the role of youth in security, governance and development”. The conference is open to all youth between the ages of 15- 30, both as delegations or as individuals. All the youth will have a great opportunity to sharpen debate skills and expand knowledge..

S

tacy Njimu from Precious Blood Riruta, and Gerald Koskei of Starehe Boys Centre have received scholarships to join Strathmore University. Strathmore in partnership with Valuraha Group awarded the students for showing brilliance in finance and investment. Valuraha Group, a student founded investment company identifies sharp minds from high school and awards them after undergoing a competitive session. Students were judged on their ability to present an in-depth analysis of a public listed company on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE) as well as their progress on the Valuraha virtual trading platform. Participating high schools included, Lenana High School, Precious Blood Riruta, Kenya High School, Loreto Limuru Girls High School, and Starehe Boys centre with a total number 325 participating students. Experts from UAP Insurance and Old Mutual Group judged the students’ presentations. Congratulations to the winners.

Elections at JKUAT

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oday JKUAT student fraternity will be exercising one of their fundamental right, that of voting in the students leadership. As new Jomo Kenyatta University Students Association (JKUSA) leadership is changed, there is anticipation that transparency in election and leadership will be adhered to. The leadership of the previous association was put to question for among other things having bias towards the schools administration and sparking chaos late last year.

Maseno University lecturer found unconscious in his office

A

Maseno University lecturer was found unconscious in his office and in the company of an undefined woman. The community health lecturer at the institution’s main campus in western Kenya is said to have been foaming from the mouth. Word on the academic

corridors is that the lecture came in to the office in high spirits and in the company of the woman. Later on they were found unconscious. After emergency medical checkup however, the two were said to have ingested a poisonous substance and were lucky to have survived the ordeal.

hot date LIKE

LOVE

HAHA

YAY

WOW

SAD

ANGRY

redesigns the like button F

TONIGHT

Tonight be there or be square as Kenya meets Jamaica and music meets comedy at the Carnivore Churchil Live recording.Sh 500 at the gate.

acebook just gave all its users a belated Valentines gift, in the form of reactions embedded in the like button. This means that you can now do a whole lot more than “like” a Facebook post with these fresh reactions which include Love, Haha, Wow, Sad and Angry. To access this exciting Facebook update, simply hover over the Like button, and the new reactions will pop up in a bar above, or if you are using a mobile phone browser, long press the like button and the reactions will pop up similarly. As of now, the reactions

are only available to use on posts, pictures and videos, not on individual comments. Conspicuously missing from the reactions set is the ‘dislike’ button which the world has been waiting for with baited breathe since reports emerged last year that Facebook was in the process of introducing the button. Nonetheless, the new reactions are still something to have fun with in the meantime, and Facebook says they are available to all users although some initial lag should be expected in some regions.


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ACCESS

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2016

FASHIONscoop

@ Oscar 2016 watch

DO yOu remember these lOOks? With only three more days to the 2016 Academy Awards, showbiz is in a frenzy making winner predictions and performance rehearsals. However, tailors and designers must be the ones under real pressure from celebrities pushing them to make the final adjustments on the ever so glorious Oscar dresses and gowns, and you know how dramatic ladies can get! Let us take you down memory lane to the best Oscar looks of all times. @mercy_x254

Angelina Jolie at the 2012 Oscars.

Natalie Portman at the 2012 Oscars.

Jenifer Lopez at the 2012 Oscars.

Sandra Bullock at the 2010 Oscars.

Jenifer Lawrence at the 2013 Oscars.

Beyoncé at the 2007 Oscars.

TOP Ever since she won the first season of American Idol, Kelly has remained a global sweetheart, which is why we can’t wait for the arrival of her baby number two with her producer hubby. The couple’s firstborn daughter will be clocking two years in June.

celebs with buns in the Oven The 2013 Oscars winner for best supporting actress is in her final weeks of pregnancy, and she has promised to love her baby ‘fiercely’. This will be the first child for the couple who wed in 2012.

Kelly clarkson and brandon blackstock.

Anne-Hathaway and Adam Shulman.

This is the most publicized pregnancy after Kim Kardashian’s Saint West and for good reason: Who doesn’t love John Legend’s amazing vocals and song writing skills which won him an Oscar last year for best original song in a film? The couple got pregnant through IVF and have already revealed that it’s going to be a girl.

Chrissy-Teigen and John Legend.


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AQUARIUS Jan 20 - Feb 18 You’ve been working hard and are stressed out, so you probably look tired. You’re apt to blow it all out of proportion, however, and think you look a lot worse than you actually do. Treat yourself to some new clothes and a walk, and then get some rest. Hang in there.

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CAPRICORN Dec 22 - Jan19 You may have had a lot of bills to pay, and thus your coffers could be a bit low for your liking. Still, this is only temporary, and it probably feels good to have the bills out of the way. Find something inexpensive, like reading, to keep you busy and get your mind off it. You’re probably doing fine!

company,

WEDNESday 25/2/2016

sunny

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More sun than clouds

28 6:42 am 6:50pm

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PISCES Feb 19 - Mar 20 You might not even remember today’s event, but memories of the occurrence long ago could plague you throughout the day and put you in a very black mood. Try to analyze why this memory affects you so much. Then when you know, let it go.

6:42 am 6:50 pm

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

ARIES Mar 21 - Apr 19 This could cause you to feel rather lonely. You might brood a little and convince yourself that no one cares about you any more. Snap out of it! You know full well this isn’t the case. Read or watch videos until someone rings you up, and they will! TAURUS Apr 20 - May 20 Therefore, you could feel somewhat antsy. You like staying home, but only if you choose to do so. Find something creative to fill the time you have to spend waiting. That might make you feel as if you’re choosing even if you aren’t. GEMINI May 21 - Jun 21 Traffic could be backed up for blocks. If you must run errands, either walk or get them done early in the day. The work could foul up the phone lines as well, at least for a while, so you might miss some calls you needed to take. This could be a frustrating day. Keep yourself busy at home. CANCER Jun 22 - Jul 21 You might find yourself doubting beliefs and values that you’ve accepted without question for most of your life. Bear in mind that this is actually a healthy process. By tomorrow you’ll probably have made peace with yourself, and should have done some growing up in the meantime. Hang in there! LEO Jul 23- Aug 22 You might be tempted to jump to the erroneous conclusion that your beloved no longer cares about you and that’s why your phone isn’t ringing. Don’t fall into this trap. If you try to be objective, you’ll realize that this isn’t true. VIRGO Aug 23-Sep 21 You can’t sense what others are feeling, and oracles like the I Ching just don’t make sense any more. You may try to fall back on logic, but that doesn’t work today either. Don’t think this is a permanent situation, however. Your mental biorhythms are low. LIBRA Sep 23 - Oct 22 Today, however, you’re going through a fit of laziness. Chances are you don’t want to do a thing except lie around and read or watch TV. It’s OK. We all need time to let our hair down and relax. Don’t suffer undue guilt because you don’t feel like working. SCORPIO Oct 23 - Nov 21 Your backyard or bedroom seems especially attractive right now, and you might have just purchased a new paperback that you’re dying to read. You won’t even feel like sharing a meal with the rest of the household. Don’t worry about this. We all want some time alone occasionally. SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 - Dec 21 You won’t feel much like talking to anyone, either. Your mind is probably on intellectual or metaphysical matters. You could just want to stay home and study those subjects all day. Tell your friend the idea of traveling sounds great and you’ll discuss it later. That’s all you can manage right now.

FIND THE KEYWORD IN RED AND SMS IT TO 22333 RINGTONES: 30 KSHS PER DAY You will receive a sms “2 download. . . ”Go to this link using GPRS or WAP & download your content. KENYAN HITS! Dumbala Remix Msaidizi Fundamentals Mungu Baba Uwepo Wako Milele Dongo Dongo Ulibeba Sobei Cheiso Worship You Sambaza Defender Tosheka Kereka Ningwendete Queen Ahuirania Ti Mundu Ndirakurekie

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PLAY 13

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2016

CROSSWORD Across 1. Facial feature 5. “Crazy” birds 10. Sci-fi vehicles 14. Henri’s girlfriend 15. PC typeface 16. Taboo thing 17. Without fear 19. NYC museum 20. Purse alternative 21. Luke Skywalker’s nemesis 22. Astronomy measurements 26. Hypoallergenic skin care brand 30. Blockhead 34. Left Bank river 35. Spanish equivalent of Mmes. 36. Cold war broadcasting inits. 37. Trivial 39. Ahab’s command 42. Christmas or Easter (abbr.) 43. German river 47. Nick of films 48. Scammer 51. Stockpile 52. Like igneous rock 54. Of days gone by 57. Signed up for 62. Bride’s accessory 63. Halloween tale 66. Coup d’___ (rebellion) 67. Non-reflective finish 68. Family group 69. Dub 70. Winding device

YOURSAY

71. Average Down 1. Café addition 2. “____ Angel” (Mae West movie) 3. “Meet Joe Black” star 4. Desiccated 5. Bolivian city 6. Starts 7. Suffix meaning “like” 8. Penguin imprint (abbr.) 9. Devious 10. Expose 11. Victuals 12. Tab-grabber’s phrase 13. Take wing 18. Online seller or bidder 21. VCR format 23. French wall 24. Thurman of “Gattaca” 25. Three tsps. 26. Cold tomato mold 27. Dog restraint 28. Rock’s ___ Vanilli 29. Colony dweller 31. Soft palate part 32. Despoils 33. Loads up 38. Call out 40. Passes, as a law 41. Central Iran city 44. Bus. entity 45. “Luck ___ Lady” 46. Che’s real name 49. Slim and graceful

50. Extremely long time 53. Brand of chips 54. Cooking chamber 55. Duke Ellington’s “I ____ Song Go Out of My Heart” 56. Circ. meas. 58. Series-ending abbrs. 59. Caramel-and-chocolate candy brand 60. Ages 61. “____-mite!” (catchphrase of a Jimmie Walker character) 63. Baseball bigwigs (abbr.) 64. Accidental occurrence 65. Prefix meaning “ear”

Yesterday’s answers

Is Jubilee Coalition headed the wrong way? Smoke is billowing from Jubilee ‘state of the art’ corruption house after one of the royal member, Ann Waiguru, released a damning affidavit linking her allies of being top beneficiaries of the National Youth Service (NYS) pilferage. She has injured and added to the many wounds that Jubilee has been grappling with. The affidavit has irked the Jubilee bandwagon led by House Majority Leader Aden Duale who has been accused of milking more than Sh300 million from the NYS coffers through fishy deals. The ruling coalition has several issues at stake. President Uhuru Kenya must be having sleepless nights wherever he is receiving this information from. Firstly, being inclined to the TNA wing of the coalition, Waiguru Affidavit has the potent of splitting the coalition in the middle, noting that the accused in her affidavit are drawn from the

URP wing. The perception created shows that URP is the most corrupt and out to spoil the image of President Kenyatta. Additionally, the President move to suspend Justice Tunoi who hails from the URP zone is also another itchy matter as well. Though it was constitutionally correct, the move was politically consequential noting that there are other senior government official allied to the President who are roaming freely. Tunoi adds to the list of former Judiciary registrar Boss Shollei, former EACC vice chairperson Irene Keino, CS Felix Koskei and David Chirchir who were ejected from the office. Other than Duale, Waiguru has dragged Kipchumba Murkomen, Farouk Kibet and Kimutai Samoei the deputy president’s younger brother. All coming from the Rift valley. Secondly, she puts the government in quagmire

over its stance in its ‘spirited’ attempt to arrest the rampant graft in country. In the past Duale and the presidency have been in the forefront vehemently defending Waiguru of any graft allegation. At one point Duale blasted opposition Chief Raila Odinga and his Cord lieutenants for ‘attacking’ Waiguru terming them as economic saboteurs out to frustrate government’s efforts to redeem the hope of the youth through the NYS project. Thirdly, the ruling coalition will face stiff competition in Malindi and Kericho byelections with bad image among Kenyans. Kanu and Cord have a clear platform of nailing the government. Worse enough, the collapse and merger of Jubilee allied parties has hit a near snag. The much anticipated unveiling of the party in March is from all angles impossible. They have much to heal before they merge. — Nderitu, Donholm

Waiguru’s affidavit confirms TNA, URP mistrust Former Cabinet Secretary Anne Waiguru is an insider. There is no way she would implicate Deputy President William Ruto without consultation. And she will not seek to consult minnows on this one. She has implicated Ruto and his squad, Elgeyo Marakwet Senator Kikchumba Murkomen, National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale AND Ruto’s Personal Assistant Farouk Kibet. As we speak, the Deputy President is continuously finding

himself alone. The Deputy President is not being assisted in campaigns by his TNA counterparts in the Senatorial and Parliamentary byelections in Kericho and Malindi respectively. The aristocrats are coming together. They do not need his (Ruto) services any longer...... He better seek the services of a good band of advisers. The writing is on the wall. — Ahmed Mohammed

Graft is Kenya number one enemy, not terrorism I weep for the liberty of my country when I the twist the initial Sh791 million National Youth Service (NYS) and the new developments. It is apparent Jubilee and its leaders are rotten and stinking and this leaves Kenyans with no hopes because rights of the people have been bartered for promises of office. If the words of Anne Waiguru is anything to go by, that National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale told NSY deputy director general Adan Harakhe during the investigation into the NYS scandal that he could cover up graft because URP leaders from his region will back him, then you will find my argument rational. Anyone who has always wondered why political leaders become filthy rich as the country gets poor and why the wealth gap between leaders and the citizens grows big day by day has been answered by just a single scandal. Our country is endowed with natural resources, a nation of beautiful minds. Our fathers and mothers desperately continue to struggle and strain to convert the little God-given resources

to food and clothing, but corruption comes and eats it all. There are countless, regrettable effects of corruption which affect innocent lives of hardworking Kenyans. Besides poverty, corruption continues to be one of the greatest factors of internecine ethnic odium and conflicts bedeviling our nation because we want one of own to be in position to eat as he drops the crumbles. The accomplice to the crime of corruption is frequently our own indifference and myopia. We are in Philippines of 70s and 80s, where a man of morals can’t be president and a politician who hasn’t been linked to any wrongdoing isn’t assumed to be honest, but merely better at hiding corruption. People, our nation remains desolate, not because of external threats, not because of Al-Shabaab nor of any natural tragedy, but because of corruption. If there are key societal members who can make a difference in the fight against this menace, I strongly believe it is me and you. — Phabian Jr, Nairobi

Voter registration exercise hit by apathy Recent reports from IEBC shows that at least 250,000 new voters have been registered in the clamor for new voters after two weeks. The exercise has been riddled by withdrawal from the general public who feel let down by those in power. Having only attained nearly an eighth of its target, the apathy illustrates a citizenry with a dying quest to exercise its suffrage, probably prompted by unfulfilled pre-election promises and the unravelling cases of mega corruption in the government. There is a feeling that it is

the same leaders who have failed in their mandate urging people to register for them to secure their positions in the next polls. Political pundits have argued that ‘no Kenyan of sound mind would register to employ a looter.’ I share the ideology. Politicians are currently busy urging the electorate to register yet some of them have not attempted to implement their last election manifestos. Cord leader Raila Odinga, probably being dissatisfied by the low numbers from his political bedrock, asked his lieutenants to abandon the

Send your letters to news@254.co| Letters will be edited for summary and clarity

House Business in Nairobi and retreat to their respective constituencies and seek more voters. Raila too is only acting at his own behest of making another stab at the presidency and not for the good of the people. With this kind of argument, IEBC will not attain even half of the target in its voter drive. Kenyans want to understand the benefits of voting and not only the clamour of doing it in the spirit of exercising democracy. — Kamotho, Eastleigh


14

SPORT THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2016

SPORTS BRIEFS IABA wants pro-boxer at the Rio Olympics Professional boxers could compete at the Rio Olympics under new plans from the sport’s governing body. AIBA president Ching-Kuo Wu wants to abolish current rules which stops any fighter with 15 or more paid bouts from competing at the Games. His proposal needs to be approved by the AIBA’s executive committee, but Wu said: “We want something to change - not after four years, but now.” Wu was speaking at an AIBA Commissions meeting in Manchester on Wednesday. “It is an International Olympic Commission (IOC) policy to have the best athletes in the Games, and of the international federations, AIBA is probably the only one without professional athletes in the Olympics,” Wu said. He added it was “absolutely possible” to change the rules in time for August’s Olympics. The qualifying process for this year’s Games is already underway, with 60 boxers having already secured their places in Rio.

Blow as Kenya fails to host tourney over venue hitches Kenya has lost the chance to host this year’s Women’s Africa Volleyball club championship to Tunisia due to lack of a second standard gymnasium. The decision was reached after Confederation of Africa Volleyball (CAVB) rejected Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) request to use Africa Nazarene University Gymnasium in addition to Kasarani, the only standard indoor facility in the country. According to FIVB requirement, a tournament of more than 12 teams can only be held in at least two

venues, something that Kenya could not meet. This comes just a few days after Kenya pulled out of the InterContinental women’s volleyball Olympic qualifiers. Kenya failed to book a ticket to the Rio Games during the continental qualifiers held last week in Cameroon, but had a second chance in the four nation intercontinental qualifiers set for late in the year before pulling out. Kenya Volleyball Federation (KVF) national executive meeting resolved not to give the players a second chance after they blew away the relatively easy chance of winning their first Olympic

slot since 2004. Before local volleyball enthusiasts could forget seeing their national team in action before June’s FIVB Grand Prix, KVF dropped another bomb shell by pulling out from hosting the club championship. KVF had earlier in the week raised question with their capacity to host the games which was expected to bring together over 12 clubs from across Africa. KVF President Waithaka Kioni had said if more than 12 teams confirm their participations then Kenya, which has only one standard indoor facility would not be in a position to accommodate all the teams at Kasarani.

Outgoing Fifa president Sepp Blatter and suspended Uefa boss Michel Platini bans from all football-related activities have been upheld. Their suspensions was however reduced by two years, from eight to six years by Fifa’s appeals committee. Both were found guilty of breaches surrounding a £Sh100million “disloyal payment” to Platini, charges which they both denied. Blatter and Platini said the payment honoured a verbal or gentleman’s agreement made in 1998 for work carried out by the Frenchman when he was a technical adviser for Blatter. Blatter, 79, added in a statement that he was “very disappointed by the appeal committee of Fifa” adding that they will appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Platini, 60, said it was “insulting and shameful” and a “political decision”. The committee said “activities and services rendered to Fifa, Uefa and football” was a mitigating factor. Fifa’s presidential election is due to take place on tomorrow, Friday to find Swiss Blatter’s replacement.

Australia›s David Warner has accused New Zealand fans of going «too far» in their abuse of his team-mates during February›s two-Test series. Australia won the first test by an innings and 52 runs and the second by seven wickets to win the series 2-0. Vice-captain Warner, who was punished for sledging in a game against India, said some of the abuse from the stands were “vulgar” and “pretty derogatory”. “When they’re talking about families, it takes it a bit too far,” he added. “You get your odd banter here or there, but we don’t expect to wake up and be hounded for six or seven hours.” While the series between the local rivals was largely played in a good spirit, Australia captain Steve Smith and pace bowler Josh Hazlewood were both fined for dissent after angry exchange with umpire Ranmore Martinesz on day four of the second Test.

@elvince_x254

Kenya Pipeline player Praxidice Agalla in action during the past African Volleyball Championship. Kenya missed the opportunity to host this year’s event over lack of enough venues.

Committee upholds Blatter, Platini bans

New Zealand fans abuse wrong, Aussie captain

Kenya, however has previously hosted these premium Africa Club games outside Kasarani. The 2012 edition were held at the Africa Nazarene University in Ongata Rongai. Kenya was to be presented by three teams, last year losing finalist, Kenya Pipeline, who are also the reigning national champions, four times winners Kenya Prisons and Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB) who finished third in the lock league last year. Kenya Pipeline is the record seven time champions of this premium Volleyball event in the continent.

Lewa Marathon set to raise Sh100 million This year’s Safaricom Lewa Marathon is targeting to raise Sh100 million. The event that surpassed last year’s target of Sh50 million by Sh10 million is now aiming to raise the funds to help in conserving the Lewa ecosystem. The event is scheduled to take place on June 25 at the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Isiolo County. The event has also gained recognition as one of the toughest and most unique races in the world as it cuts through one of East Africa’s most scenic conservancies. “For close to two decades now, the marathon has had positive impact on the lives of communities that

live within and around Lewa conservancy. What began as an idea to save endangered species has transformed thousands of lives, as communities are now able to benefit from health, water and community projects, thanks to funds raised through the marathon,” said Joe Ogutu, Director for Strategy and Innovation – Safaricom. So far, the marathon has raised Sh445 million. Safaricom committed Sh30 million towards the race that started 17 years ago with only180 runners in the year 2000, but by last year, the entry had hit 1,400 participants from 35 countries across five continents in 2015. These funds have been used to

support various initiatives in wildlife conservation, education, water and sanitation, agriculture and health within and around the conservancy. “Last year our theme was “Run for a good cause” and our focus was on raising funds for wildlife protection and supporting community projects around the conservancy,” said Lewa Conservancy chief executive Mike Watson. “This year, our theme remains the same, because we feel it is important that participants and sponsors understand and participate in this noble cause,” said Watson. Registration opens today and it will be on first come first serve

basis. For a full marathon (42km) one will have to part with Sh15, 000 while the half marathon (Corporate team sport of minimum of four and maximum of 10 participants) is set at Sh150,000. As has been the tradition, the marathon will have three categories which include 5km children’s fun race, the 21km half marathon – which will include team races – and the full marathon (42km). Last year, Robert Wambua and Lucy Karimi won the half marathon, with Elijah Mbogo and three-time winner Fridah Lodepa being crowned winners of the 42km race. @elvince_x254


SPORT 15 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2016

Running for a cause First Lady Margaret Kenyatta leads a warm-up and training session in preparation for the forthcoming First Lady’s Half Marathon at Kasarani Stadium. The Marathon is scheduled for the March 6 and will support the Beyond Zero campaign. Mrs Kenyatta was joined by some local media personalities ahead of the third edition of the marathon.

Fifa begins search for Blatter’s replacement The world Football body Fifa will have a new President for the first time in 18 years after tomorrow’s elections. Sepp Blatter’s 18 year’s reign since 1998 will come to an end after Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) rejected Prince Ali’s bid to have the elections postponed, paving way for a battle that will usher in a new face at Fifa headquarters in Zurich. Prince Ali of Jordan, 40 wanted the elections suspended because he was unhappy with voting arrangements. The Jordanian wanted transparency voting booths in an election that will usher in new officials. “I have done all I can. I regret that the system let us down,” he said. “It is now imperative that voters abide by the ban on mobile phones and cameras in the voting booth. World football’s election commission rejected Prince Ali’s original request to suspend it if it could not “ensure the vote is conducted in secret” and CAS ratified

that decision on Wednesday. Prince Ali remains a strong candidate for the position alongside Fifa secretary General Gianni Infantino and Asian head of football Sheikh Salman are the two strong candidates for the February 26 polls though Prince Ali is also a force to reckon with. Other candidates are Jerome Champaign and wealthy South African Tokyo Saxswale who was imprisoned alongside Nelson Mandela at the Robben Island. The elections will pave way for an ice hockey match at the venue of the historic election to be held at Hallenstadion in Zurich. The 209 delegates from member federations including Kenya must find Blatter’s successor. Kenya will be represented by newlyelected FKF chairman Nick Mwendwa, but the federation is yet to announce officially who they will be backing. Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) had thrown its support behind Salman. Kenya is expected to follow the direction

of CAF unless something happens between now and the ‘big night’. Alliances are expected to be formed, delegate to retreat in their blocks as the world searches for a figure that will restore faith in the sport, rocked with myriad of corruption allegations. Blatter who won the last elections held in June’s ahead of Prince Ali before resigning days later will not challenge for the seat after he was banned for eight years before the suspension was cut by wo years. Sexwale, 62, said he was open for alliances and he may pull out in favour of either Prince Ali or Infantino. Reports have so far emerged that Fifa has vetted the victory speeches of all the candidates but Infantino has vowed to “speak his mind” should he win. “They can always propose whatever they want, but I will say what I want because. I am my own man and I’ve always been like this,” he told ESPN.

United, Liverpool return to action as Europa resume Manchester United injuries woes has followed them to the Europa with up to six players set to miss their second leg clash with Midjylland tonight. United will be without first goalkeeper, David de Gea, striker Wayne Rooney (knee), midfielder Marouane Fellaini (muscle injury) and defender Matteo Darmian (shoulder) as they look to overturn their 2-1 defeat in the hands of the little know Midjylland last week. Spaniard De Gea will miss his third straight game since he suffered a knee injury during the warm-up before last week’s first leg in Denmark, which United lost 2-1. Winger Antonio Valencia who has not played since October after undergoing foot surgery will also be out of the match which United must win to avoid

further embarrassment after their poor start to the lower competition. Defender Chris Smalling will be assessed after sustaining a knock colliding with an advertising hoarding in Monday’s FA Cup fifth round win at Shrewsbury. Donald Love comes back into contention and the returning Marcos Rojo could play 20 minutes. Manager Luis van Gaal said United will have to be “very creative” if they are to overturn the first leg deficit. “We have to score, that’s for sure. We have to disorganise their organisation so we have to be very creative,” he asaid. Tottenham will be without striker Harry Kane as they face Fiorentina. Ke ane broke his nose during the FA defeat to Crystal Palace at the weekend and will sit out the game at White

Hart Lane, which stands at 1-1. He is expected to return against Swansea for a League match on Saturday. It will be the first time this season Kane has not been named either in the starting line-up or on the bench for a Spurs fixture. Liverpool who played goalless draw in Germany last Thursday, Augsburg at Anfield for the return leg with equally crocked squad. Liverpool are still working on the return to fitness of Daniel Sturridge and Philippe Coutinho after long spells. Kevin Stewart, who signed a contract extension on Tuesday that will keep him at the club until 2020, is still out after hurting his ankle while training prior to last week’s match. Adam Lallana and Joe Allen will remain on the sidelines as well.

18+

1. 27.02.16 2. 27.02.16 3. 27.02.16 4. 27.02.16 5. 27.02.16 6. 27.02.16 7. 28.02.16 8. 28.02.16 9. 28.02.16 10. 28.02.16 11. 28.02.16 12. 28.02.16 13. 28.02.16

sms charged at 2/=

18:00 18:00 19:00 20:15 20:30 22:00 00:05 14:30 16:00 17:05 17:30 18:00 19:30

Southampton vs Chelsea Watford vs Bournemouth Montpellier vs Lille Sporting Gijon vs Espanyol West Bromwich vs Crystal Palace Reims vs Bordeaux Real Sociedad vs Malaga Palermo vs Bologna Nantes vs Monaco Manchester Utd vs Arsenal Augsburg vs B Monchengladbach Valencia vs Athletic Bilbao Liverpool vs Manchester City

2.87 2.34 2.56 2.30 2.56 2.66 2.24 2.57 2.47 2.93 2.61 2.24 2.93

3.13 3.24 2.99 3.20 3.10 3.09 3.20 3.15 3.06 3.14 3.41 3.26 3.29

2.55 3.08 2.99 3.20 2.88 2.77 3.31 2.83 3.06 2.50 2.61 3.26 2.30

THURSDAY FEBRUARY 25 2016 18:30 18:40 19:00 21:00 21:00 21:00 21:00 21:00 21:00 21:00 22:00 22:45 23:05 23:05 23:05 23:05 23:05 23:05 23:05

X9876 Al Shabab Riyadh vs Al Fateh (KSA) 2.00 3.35 3.10 Y7685 Al Taawon vs Al Khaleej Club 1.42 3.96 6.09 E3687 Lokomotiv Moscow vs Fenerbahce 2.72 3.09 2.72 Y2796 Lazio vs Galatasaray 1.56 4.03 5.91 F7955 Schalke 04 vs Shakhtar Donetsk 1.81 3.61 4.36 Liverpool vs Augsburg 1.45 4.36 7.00 R8235 B9323 Bayer Leverkusen vs Sporting Lisbon 1.71 3.74 4.81 G3948 Rapid Vienna vs Valencia 2.22 3.44 3.13 Athletic Bilbao vs Marseille 1.80 3.55 4.50 K9559 FC Krasnodar vs Sparta Prague 2.03 3.42 3.63 P4837 V4474 Portuguesa RJ vs Bonsucesso 1.83 3.35 3.65 G3885 Brentwood Town vs Grays Athletic 2.39 3.55 2.39 Z7743 Manchester Utd vs Midtjylland 1.27 5.38 11.57 M2294 Molde vs Sevilla FC 4.45 3.97 1.72 U7589 Basel vs St. Etienne 1.88 3.60 3.98 Porto vs Borussia Dortmund 3.28 3.39 2.17 Y4245 Y6884 Olympiakos vs Anderlecht 1.71 3.68 4.96 P3954 Napoli vs Villarreal 1.72 3.70 4.83 H6648 Tottenham vs Fiorentina 1.81 3.56 4.42

1:30 1:30 3:00 3:45 3:45

K9475 E4223 U4522 P7242 M3863

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 26 2016

Coritiba vs Rio Branco PR Rosario Central vs Nacional (URU) America RJ vs Boavista SC Emelec vs Tachira Trujillanos vs River Plate

1.29 1.51 2.22 1.36 5.06

4.32 3.52 3.12 4.19 3.29

8.70 5.78 2.87 6.81 1.62

772


THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2016 | www.254.co

MANCHESTER UNITED RETURN TO ACTION IN A DO OR DIE MATCH AT OLD TRAFFORD

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Manchester City’s Yaya Toure celebrate his goal with teammates after scoring againsy Dynamo Kyiv at the Olimpiyskiy Stadium in Kiev, Ukrain last night. City won 3-1. PHOTO: S. DOLZHENKO/EPA

City roar back to victory Manchester City has a high hand of progressing past the Champions League last 16 group for the first time after winning their first leg match against Dynamo Kiev in Ukraine. A full-strength Manchester City took command of their Champions League tie against Kiev with an impressive 3-1 first-leg win. If they pull a draw in the return leg, City will have moved past this group for the first time since their debut at the European elite competition in 2011/12. Dynamo Kiev had not played a competitive game since a Champions League group-stage win over Maccabi Tel Aviv on December 9,

because of Ukrainian football’s winter break. They lacked rhythm and looked off the pace as they struggled to deal with the intensity of City’s pressing game in the first half as their star player Andriy Yarmolenko struggled to make an impact. City dominated the first half and Sergio Aguero slotted in an opener before David Silva side-footed the second. Vitaliy Buyalsky pulled one back with a deflected shot before he had another effort superbly saved by Joe Hart. Yaya Toure curled in a superb shot late on to restore City’s two-goal lead. This was a reward for City boss Manuel Pellegrini decision

to field a weakened side in the FA Cup defeat by Chelsea on Sunday. But the City boss made 10 changes as he restored his side’s stars to the starting line-up last night and they put the club within reach of the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time. City went into the game with just one win in the four matches since it was announced Pep Guardiola would be replacing Pellegrini in the summer. Aguero put the visitors ahead and sent two further efforts wide. He also had another shot parried away by 41-yearold keeper Olexandr Shovkovskiy who made his champions league debut

before City winger Raheem Sterling was born. City had to withstand some pressure as the home side regrouped and improved after the break and, despite conceding a goal, Toure’s finish put them in control. “We are going into the second leg with a fairly good chance to go through, which has not been the case before. We looked like a team that was hungry for success,” said Pellegrini. Captain Vincent Kompany, who was playing only his second game since returning from seven weeks out with a calf injury, gave his side a more assured look at the back when they had to deal with a more threatening home

side in the second half. In Holland, PSV Eindhoven’s survived the last 22 minutes with 10 men in their 0-0 draw with Atletico Madrid to remain in contention for the next round after Gaston Pereiro was sent off in the 68th minute. Atletico should have been ahead at the interval, Jeffrey Bruma clearing Luciano Vietto’s attempt off the line. Antoine Griezmann was then denied by a fine save from PSV keeper Jeroen Zoet after springing the offside trap. Uruguay-born forward Pereiro, who had already been booked, was ordered off after jumping into countryman Diego Godin.

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