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PETITIONER: SWAZURI ASKED ME FOR A BRIBE MUGO NJERU TELLS MPS THAT THE NATIONAL LAND COMMISSION BOSS WANTED TO BE GIVEN A SH1.2 MILLION BRIBE TO FACILIATE HIS COMPENSATION FOR SGR LAND

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MICHAEL OLUNGA NOW TIPPED TO BREAK OLIECH’S GOAL-SCORING RECORD

NEYMAR TO UNITED, HAZRAD TO REAL TOP LATEST TRANFER RUMOURS IN EUROPE

Joho: I am being framed ●

Mombasa Governor has been put under probe with revelations that his KCSE result papers are forged But he says the investigations is part of a wider scheme to lock him out of the ballot Says he is proud of his D(minus) grade he attained in 1993 KCSE examinations STORY ON PAGE 2

It’s all battle for votes as IEBC sets official campaign date

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he Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has set the stage for a titanic battle as various political parties and candidates seek voters favour ahead of the general election in August.

Official campaigns are set to begin in May after the electoral commission announced a slightly over twomonth period for vote hunting.

“The campaign period for purposes of the 8th August, 2017 general election, shall commence on Sunday 28th May, 2017 and ceases on 5th August, 2017,” IEBC chairman Wafula Chebukati said in a special gazette notice.

The notice further indicated that all political parties have up to April 26, 2017 as the deadline to wind up their party primaries.

“Each political party wishing to participate in the elections must finalise its primaries on or before the 26th April 2017,” Chebukati stated.

In addition, the electoral agency said the political parties and independent candidates for the presidential elections are expected to be done between Sunday May 28, 2017 and Monday 29, 2017.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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Governor Joho fights back, says he is being framed TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2017

Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho has finally broken his silence over reports that his academic papers were forged.

Joho who is already under investigations over the ‘forgeries’ today said he is being framed by higher forces who are keen on blocking him from being on the ballot in the coming general election.

The Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) in a letter to Directorate of Criminal Investigations said Joho’s KCSE results were forged as they did not match the center code for Serani Secondary School where he schooled.

The governor, it has emerged, was enrolled at the school in February 1990 and left in November 1993 after sitting for his KCSE exams according to the school principal.

Today, Joho said his record are straight and that the investigations are part of a wider scheme by the government to intimidate him.

“I saw this coming, I knew how they were going to do it and I was prepared,” Joho told journalists at a press conference at his office in

Mombasa today.

“Right now I am now being investigated by entire institutions under Jubilee,” he added.

Asked whether he forged his results, he responded: “Why would I want to forge my own certificate and in the same year get admitted in two institutions?”

The governor said he is happy with the D- (minus) grade he got in Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education exams in 1993 because he had turned it around into “real success”.

“I am proud of my results. I should be an inspiration to young people on making the best of what you have,” he said.

“The difference between me and Jubilee leaders is some have been in a comfort zone since they were born. I have struggled,” he added.

He linked President Uhuru Kenyatta to his woes and vowed to criticise the government provided that criticism was in defense of the rights of the coast people.

“When he was here last time, he said they will deal with me. This is part of it,” he said.

Mombasa Governor Ali Hassan Joho

“Whatever it takes, I will continue. My aim as a leader is to serve the interests of citizens, not only of Mombasa but Kenya,” he added.

He said he will go to the regional police headquarters and record his statement with the police but

questioned why a senior officer had to fly down to Mombasa to record the statement unlike is always the case.

“Since when does it happen in an investigation that a top cop has to fly to Mombasa to take a statement?,” he @hillary_x254 asked.

It’s all battle as IEBC sets official campaign date From Page 1

“The days for the nominations of political parties and independent candidates for the presidential elections shall be Sunday May 28th, 2017 and Monday 29, 2017,” he said.

However, candidates intending to participate in the general elections as independent candidates shall cease being members of any political party by May 8, 2017.

At the same time, political parties have until midnight Monday next week to submit the lists of all their aspirants to polls team for examination and vetting.

The multi-agency process which will be conducted from April 5, 2017 will be seeking to determine whether or not those seeking public offices have complied with all the rules, among them chapter six of the constitution that touches on integrity.

Since Sunday, political parties have been vetting and submitting to IEBC the names of candidates to participate in next month’s nomination.

IEBC has asked the more than 67 political parties to stick to the strict electoral timelines of the submissions.

However, the electoral body has ruled out the prospects of extending the deadline for party hopping despite a pending court case by the Council of Governors challenging the legality of a law barring party hopping.

IEBC maintains it will go ahead with the vetting process even as it awaits the verdict by the High Court on the matter tomorrow.

Petitioner: Swazuri asked me for a bribe Established in 1969

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National Land Commission (NLC) chairman Mohamed Swazuri asked to be bribed before he could okay compensation for some people who were moved to pave way for the construction of the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR).

A petitioner seeking to have Dr Swazuri removed from office on grounds of graft told MPs today that the land commission boss asked him for a Sh1.2 million bribe in order for him to be compensated.

Mugo Njeru who was appearing before the Parliamentary Committee of Lands claimed that Swazuri asked him to pay the bribe through his lawyer Elijah Fadhili.

He said he owns land along Mombasa road, some 80 acres from whicn an acre was acquired by the government for the construction of the Standard Gauge Railway.

According to the petitioner, the bribe was to facilitate his compensation.

In narration, he said he was asked to go to Mombasa and met Swazuri over the deal in 2015 and that he was to carry the Sh1.2 million as he could not see the chairman empty handed.

He also claimed that the Swazuri’s lawyer told him the money was to be shared among the NLC commissioners.

“I’m 2015, I told Elijah Fadhili that I could raise the Sh1.2 million but I had Sh1 million. We met with Swazuri in Mombasa at Rotus hotel but he refused to take the money saying I should give it to his lawyer who knows how the money will get to him,” Njeru claimed.

But Lamu West MP asked the petitioner to state whether theirs was a deal gone sour.

“This to me seems like a deal gone sour because if land belongs to you, why then would you bribe the chairman in order to be compensated,” Ndegwa said.

However, Mugo told the MPs that he realized others who were to be compensated had parted with the

money and that he also had to pay if he was to get compensation.

“I realised I was not alone. Many others had paid and got their compensation,” he said.

The committee is handling that petition that was presented before parliament last week by Njeru seeking the removal of Swazuri. The committee will also call NLC commissioners and @sam_x254 Dr Swazuri.

Petitioner Mugo Njeru swears before the Parliamentary Committee on lands at Parliament Buildings today.

PHOTO: COURTESY

NEWS 3

ODM will disqualify violent aspirants, leader Raila says

TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2017

Crack down on hate talk, clergy urges state

The government has been urged to crack down on politicians using hate speech to whip up ethnic tensions.

The Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK) says it is necessary to do so if the country is to avoid a repeat of the nationwide violence that followed the 2007 general election.

CIPK wants state agencies to tame candidates who are beating drums of war ahead of the August polls.

“The amount of hate speech perpetuated by politicians should not be tolerated at a time when the country is gearing up for the general election if we are to avert bloodshed,” CIPK Organizing Secretary Sheikh Mohamed Khalifa said in a statement today. Khalifa held that relevant government institutions must act tough against politicians spewing hate speech at political rallies.

“Incitement on ethnic lines may explode into violence during the polls,” the council warned.

The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) early this month launched special cameras to track down hate speech at political rallies.

Some 47 cameras have been dispatched to the counties as the commission seeks to tighten their evidence against politicians accused of inciting supporters to violence. @hillary_x254

The Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party will disqualify any aspirant using underhand tactics including violence during upcoming nominations, its leader Raila Odinga has said.

Odinga said he has given very firm instructions to the National Election Board (NEB) that the party must not tolerate any form of violence, intimidation and fraud during nominations. “As the leader of the party, I have mandated the NEB to take firm action, including disqualification, against aspirants who use underhand tactics including violence during upcoming nominations,” he said yesterday.

“Our policy of zero tolerance for all forms of political violence, especially violence against women aspirants, candidates and party activists must come alive in the nominations that begin next month,” Odinga said during a meeting with women aspirants at Multimedia University in Nairobi. The former Prime Minister said ODM will play its role in ensuring that the country realize the two-thirds gender rule in the 2017 elections.

“Women are at the center of our agenda for inclusion as opposed to exclusion. We have taken these steps with full knowledge that significant challenges remain in our

ODM leaders Agnes Zani, Gladys Wanga and Elizabeth Ongoro at yesterday’s meeting of women aspirants with Party Leader Raila Odinga at Multimedia University.

attempts to get more women elected,” Odinga said. Women currently represent only about 20 percent of parliament and 33 percent of county assemblies. Out of 1,450 seats in county assemblies, only 80 women were elected while the rest were nominated.

At the national level, only 16 women were elected to the National Assembly for single member constituency seats, 47 were elected for special women only county seats while five were nominated for special interest seats. Odinga said it is worrying that no woman was elected to the Senate and there is not a single woman governor. “Kenya’s 2013 election did not meet the two-third gender

threshold. Out of all contestants for four elective positions; governor, senator, MP and MCA, women made up only six percent of candidates,” Odinga lamented.

“This is a dismal record ODM does not want to be associated with after August elections. We owe it to our women and to our country to ensure that in 2017, we meet the constitutional gender threshold. In ODM, we are prioritizing free, fair, credible and peaceful nominations in the process that begins next month and in the general elections slated for August,” he added. @sam_x254

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NEWS

TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2017

Parents and neighbours top child abuse charts Over 30,000 cases of child abuse were reported in Kenya over the past 10 years through a national child helpline service 116.

A report released by Childline Kenya today indicates that child neglect, sexual abuse and physical abuse incidences totalling to 13,878, 7,832 and 7,317 respectively of the 33,929 cases reported between the year 2006 and 2016, accounted for the lion’s share of abuses against minors.

The data which was collected from the helpline run by Childline Kenya also indicates that cases of child labour (3,123), emotional abuse (1,025) and child trafficking and abduction (528) were rampant over the 10-year period.

According to records, immediate family members, neighbours and unspecified guardians are among key perpetrators of child abuses which were more rampant in the years 2012 (6,974), 2008 (5,490) and 2011 (4,853).

Speaking to Capital FM News after realising the report, Childline Kenya Board Chairperson George Okado said most of the victims of child abuse remained unattended to with only 48 per cent of calls made getting the attention of the child protection organisation.

“People are waiting for too long because we only have about 24 counsellors on a daily basis and therefore people are unable to wait for 10 to 15 minutes,” said Okado. Okado however said plans are underway to upgrade the capacity of the 116 helpline by ensuring more centres are opened up in counties to enhance the reporting of cases of child abuse.

www.capitalfm.co.ke

Kenya Power staff arrested over theft, vandalism of street lights Eight people including two staff of Kenya Power were arrested over the weekend in connection to vandalism and theft of electricity distribution equipment.

This follows intensified operations carried out by the company’s security team countrywide to weed out vandals and illegal electricity connections. Robert Njenga Githige, a driver attached to Kenya Power’s Nairobi West Region was arrested for failing to account for 36 street lights out of the 79 he had collected from Likoni Road Stores for delivery to Dagoretti Depot.

He appeared before Milimani Law Courts yesterday morning and was released on a cash bail of Sh300,000 and surety of Sh500,000 pending mention of the case that is scheduled for April 10, 2017.

At the same time, five people were arrested at Kaunyweni village in Thatha, Machakos County in connection with vandalism of two 50 KVA transformers. The stolen equipment was intercepted as it was being transported to an unknown customer in Meru. Those arrested are Andrew Lusaba (Kenya Power staff attached to Matuu Depot), James Muli, (former staff at Mlolongo Depot), Godwin Lihali (Contractor) and the driver of the vehicle used to transport the transformers and his assistant. Elsewhere, Vitalis Wanyama was apprehended at Kitale Depot for recklessly cutting down trees

A Kenya Power staff fixes street lighhts in Nairobi.

resulting to damage of a power line and poles.

Another suspect, Linus Alweny, was also seized at Sports Club Estate, Uasin Gishu County while removing LV fuses from transformers in the area. The arrests come less than a month after a Kenya Power staff was charged at Kajiado Law Courts for constructing an illegal line and uprating a transformer. Kenya Power’s Security Services Manager Major Geoffrey Kigen (Rtd) cautioned members of the public

against engaging in illegal activities such as theft of electricity and vandalism.

“All services regarding supply of electricity should be sought at Kenya Power offices.

Members of the public should be aware that handling stolen goods is an offence punishable under the law. All suspicious persons should be reported to the police or Kenya Power offices for further action,” he said.

www.capitalfm.co.ke

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NEWS 5

Disaster as monster cyclone batters Australia TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2017

A powerful cyclone has pummelled the north-east Australian coast, causing major damage, torrential rain and power cuts to tens of thousands of homes.

Cyclone Debbie made landfall between Bowen and Airlie Beach in Queensland as a category four storm, whipping up gusts of 263km/h (163 mph).

It is moving inland as a category three but could cause damage for hours yet.

One serious injury has been reported.

PM Malcolm Turnbull told parliament he had activated a disaster response plan.

The extent of Cyclone Debbie’s devastation may not be known for some time, authorities said.

Police Commissioner Ian Stewart said: “We are going to get lots of reports of damage, and sadly I think we will also receive reports of injuries, if not death.”

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said assessing damage was difficult because communities had been cut off from power and phone reception.

One man had been seriously injured in a wall collapse triggered by the storm in Proserpine, Mr Stewart said.

Caravan park owner Roz Willcocks said her property near Bowen had been “trashed”.

“There’s at least 50 trees down. The neighbour’s roof came off. We’ve got sheds down,” she told the BBC. Electricity providers said it was not

A tree that fell across a road at Airlie Beach, Queensland, Australia, today. Category 4 Cyclone Debbie made landfall on the north coast of Queensland, Australia early today causing much damage in the area. PHOTO: DAN PELED/EPA

known when power would be restored to houses.

Authorities warned people to stay indoors until it was safe to go outside.

“We’re going to see the impact of Cyclone Debbie for the next three to

five days as it travels down the coast,” Ms Palaszczuk said.

More than 25,000 people were urged to evacuate their homes ahead of predictions the cyclone would be Queensland’s most damaging since

2011.

One person in the Whitsunday Islands compared the winds to “freight trains coming through left and right”.

“The trees are going wild. The place is just shaking continuously,” the man,

identified only as Charlie, told the Australian Broadcasting Corp.

Greg Williamson, the mayor of Mackay regional council, told the BBC: “We’ve had winds up to about 95km/h for the last 12 hours. We’ve had torrential rain.... but that’s what you get for living in a tropical paradise.”

He said the Whitsunday Islands, Proserpine and Bowen were “really getting lashed now at the moment”.

In other key developments, the region is expected to be hit with 150-500mm of rain today, with warnings of floods in low-lying areas while police have warned people to beware of fallen power lines, which could be deadly.

Emergency stockpiles of food and fuel have been set aside, and the army is on standby while the Insurance Council of Australia declared the cyclone a “catastrophe” More than 2,000 emergency workers are on standby, but people have been warned crews will only respond when it is safe to do so.

Queensland authorities closed 181 schools and 232 early childhood education centres.

All flights have been cancelled at Townsville Airport and Mackay Airport.

Mr Stewart said the weather contributed to the death of a woman in a car crash yesterday.

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NEWS TUESDAY,MARCH 28, 2017

NEWS PICTORIAL

DROUGHT IN SOMALIA:

Goats flock to drink water trucked in for herders near Bandarbeyla in Somalia’s semi-autonomous region of Puntland, Somalia, on March 25, 2017. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is providing pastoralists in rural areas of Somalia with water and treatment for their livestock to save their livelihoods amid worsening drought in the horn of Africa country. PHOTO: DAI KUROKAWA/EPA

RUSSIAN OPPOSITION CHIEF JAILED: Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny (L) enters

a court room to hear his verdict at the Tverskoy district court in Moscow, Russia, yesterday. The court found him guilty of organizing an unauthorized protest and sentenced him to 15 days of administrative arrest for resisting police during detention. He was also ordered to pay a fine for organizing the banned protest. PHOTO: SERGEI ILNITSKY/EPA

TOUGH DISCUSSIONS

Austrian Interior Minister Wolfgang Sobotka during the Justice and Home Affairs Council in Brussels, Belgium, yesterday. The Ministers are expected to discuss the EU’s migration policy. PHOTO: OLIVIER HOSLET/EPA

SHATTERED DREAMS: A drug addict is locked into a foot restraint as punishment for fighting with another at the drugs rehabilitation center in Myitkyina, Kachin State, northern Myanmar on March 18, 2017. Tens of thousands of Myanmar youth come to Hpakant, the land of Jade, in the far north of the state, with the hope and dreams of escaping from poverty and making their fortunes. But many of these migrant workers, instead, have their dreams of a better future dissolve into a nightmare of addiction, as they fall into the trap of cheap heroin. Hpakant region lies in the far northern most Kachin state in Myanmar. It is a harsh poor region, that nevertheless, produces huge wealth, for some, as its land holds the rare mineral jadeite, the world’s highest quality jade. PHOTO: SENG MAI/EPA

TRANSITION

This photo shows former South African President Nelson Mandela (C) photographed with his ex-wife Winnie mandela and fellow Rivonia Trialist Ahmed Kathrada (R) as part of celebrations to mark Mr Mandela’s 90th birthday on July 18, 2008 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Mr Kathrada, an anti-apartheid struggle veteran and former parliamentary counsellor and friend of late President of South Africa Nelson Mandela, died today at Donald Gordon Hospital in Johannesburg at the age of 87.

PHOTO: MATTHEWS WILLMAN/EPA

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani disembarks his plane upon arrival at Vnukovo airport, in Moscow, Russia, yesterday. Mr Rouhani is on a two-day official visit to Moscow at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin. PHOTO: YURI KOCHETKOV/EPA

NEWS 7

TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2017

Morning newspaper summaries MPs seek five years in Joho to be quizzed by CID Poll chaos: No place to jail for hate mongers: The over papers: Mombasa Governor Ali hide for kingpins: As the election

Major bank owners set for dividend windfall:

fever rises in the country, President Uhuru Kenyatta and Opposition leader Raila Odinga have taken drastic measures to contain their troops and lock out aspirants who engage in violence. Raila said he was ready to invoke his powers as ODM party leader to punish aspirants who engage in violence in their campaigns. The ODM leader instructed the party’s National Elections Board to deal firmly with male aspirants using violence .

Wealthy owners of public listed banks are set to earn billions in dividends this year, even as their customers continue to face difficulties accessing credit following the coming into force of a law capping interest rates last year. Nine out of the 11 listed banks that have announced 2016 financial results collectively posted a 13 per cent rise in total dividend payout totalling Sh34.7 billion compared to Sh30.8 billion in 2015.

I didn’t forge KCSE results, IEBC defied expert advice Defiant Joho summoned I’m being fixed: Joho says: in Sh3.8bn election kit over fake papers: The controversy Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho yesterday tender: Electoral Commission chiefs over the authenticity of Governor Hassan Ali Joho’s academic credentials deepened after he denied allegations that he forged his KCSE

Gold-backed asset trades Sh1.3m worth of units on day one at NSE: The

government wants to tighten the noose on all convicted hatemongers — politicians, journalists, bloggers — by sending them to jail for five years, fining them Sh5 million, or both. Politicians convicted of hate speech would be barred from seeking office for five years. If approved by Parliament, The National Integration and Cohesion (Amendment) Bill 2017 will also fine media practitioners as much as Sh10 million if found guilty of publishing and disseminating hate speech.

certificate to get admitted to the University of Nairobi. The governor, through his aide Richard Chacha, said Jubilee forged documents to frame him and suit its narrative that he is dishonest, unqualified and ineligible for election. Chacha said only the University of Nairobi can provide the actual position and “Jubilee’s splashed documents should not be relied upon.”

Hassan Joho has been summoned by police to record a statement on his academic certificates after the national examinations body disowned his result slip as a forgery. The Kenya National Examinations Council (Knec) wrote to the Director of Criminal Investigations claiming the 1992 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education result slip that Mr Joho is alleged to have used to gain admission to the University of Nairobi was forged.

went against the advice of their own tender evaluation committee and went ahead to award a Sh3.8 billion contract for the supply of voter technology to a French firm which had failed to meet the criteria set out in the bid document.

The Nation learnt that the firm Safran had been disqualified by a six-member committee set up to evaluate the bids by 10 companies that had expressed interest in supplying the system.

was summoned to record a statement with the CID. The Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) team is investigating the alleged forgery of his 1992 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE). A letter from Coast DCI Regional Coordinator Pius Macharia required Joho to appear before Assistant Inspector General of Police Samwel Nyambengi at the Mombasa DCI headquarters at 10am.

People with persistent New school rules to protect Kenyan military kills coughs to be tested for learners: Caning, sex and drug and 31 Shabaab militants in abuse will not be condoned in Somalia: Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) tuberculosis: Anyone who visits substance learning institutions, teachers have been

health facilities with persistent coughs or other TB symptoms will have to be tested for the disease, the Ministry of Health has said.

The decision comes after a survey showed close to 40 per cent of people infected with TB are undiagnosed and therefore continue to spread the bacteria. Most of these are HIVnegative people, whose immunity is stronger.

The National TB Prevalence Survey, released last week, found that 82,000 people were diagnosed and treated for TB in 2015.

warned. Even keeping canes in staff rooms, classrooms or any part of the school is illegal, according to new guidelines issued by the Teachers Service Commission to enhance the safety of learners. School administrators also have a duty to protect the learners against sexual abuse by reporting cases to the police and other security agencies. The circular is seen as a response to cases of bullying in schools, whether by prefects or other students.

killed 31 Al-Shabaab militants in a clash at Baadhere in Somalia on Sunday. According to KDF, an unknown number of the militants were also injured in the incident and two of their vehicles destroyed. KDF spokesman Col Joseph Owuoth said ground troops were supported by attack helicopters and artillery fire to raid two militants’ bases located 17 kilometres from Sarira near Hola Wajeer.

Barclays NewGold exchange traded fund (ETF) sold Sh1.125 million worth of units on the first day of trading at the Nairobi Securities Exchange. The issuer said it was expecting a gradual pickup of trades as fund managers come to appreciate the new asset class. Market data showed that 900 units were sold at a price of Sh1,250 each based on yesterday’s price of gold.

Kenyan firms freeze new hiring, suspend pay rise:

Flat or declining sales coupled with growing concern over the August Election have left dark clouds hanging over the labour market, forcing the majority of employers to freeze plans to hire or raise workers’ salaries, a newly-released report says. The job market survey, commissioned by the Institute of Human Resource Management, found that 73 per cent of employers across 12 sectors have stopped new hiring. More than 57 per cent of the firms also indicated that they will not increase employees’ pay this year.

Top stories from X News global partners As Jared Kushner ascends Calls Grow for Nunes to A n t i - c o r r u p t i o n White House ladder, Step Aside in Inquiry on demonstrations sweep Senate Russia inquiry Russia: Top House Democrats on Monday across Russia: VLADIMIR PUTIN adds scrutiny: Jared Kushner, called on the Republican chairman of the House won his first presidential election on March 26th Donald Trump’s son-in-law and senior adviser, found himself back in the spotlight for better and for worse on Monday. As the US president appointed him to a new White House role, it was revealed that Kushner would testify before a Senate committee investigating Russian interference in last year’s election. With Kushner at its helm, Trump’s White House Office of American Innovation is designed to overhaul the federal government with input from the private sector, it was announced on Monday. The venture, which will bring together a team of former executives to privatize certain government functions, will follow through on the president’s business-minded approach to running the country. www.theguardian.com

Intelligence Committee to recuse himself from the panel’s investigation into Russian meddling in the 2016 presidential election, thrusting the entire inquiry into jeopardy amid what they described as mounting evidence he was too close to President Trump to be impartial.

The demands followed revelations that the committee’s chairman, Representative Devin Nunes of California, had met on White House grounds with a source who showed him secret American intelligence reports. The reports, Mr. Nunes said last week, showed that Mr. Trump or his closest associates may have been “incidentally” swept up in foreign surveillance

by American spy agencies. www.nytimes.com

2000. Exactly 17 years later, tens of thousands of Russians across the country came out to protest the corruption that has come to define his tenure. The demonstrations, the most significant challenge to Mr Putin’s regime since 2012, began on Russia’s Pacific coast, where hundreds marched through Vladivostok. Throughout the day reports of rallies, most of them unsanctioned, flowed in from dozens of cities, including metropolises like Novosibirsk and Yekaterinburg, industrial centres like Chelyabinsk and Nizhny Tagil, and even Makhachkala, capital of Dagestan, a North Caucasian region where Mr Putin regularly receives more than 90% of the vote. The largest crowds emerged in Moscow and in St Petersburg. www.economist.com

Angela Merkel toughens her position on Brexit:

Germany has hardened its stance on Brexit as Theresa May, Britain’s prime minister, prepares to launch the historic exit negotiations on Wednesday.

Chancellor Angela Merkel, who made accommodating noises after last summer’s referendum, has adopted a tough position on issues such as the UK’s exit bill and the sequencing of negotiations, partly in response to increasing expectations that Britain is seeking a hard Brexit. “We have no interest in punishing the UK, but we also have no interest in putting European integration in danger over the UK,” Wolfgang Schäuble, the finance minister and Ms Merkel’s close ally, said in a recent FT interview.

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xnews | TUESday, MARCH 28, 2017 | www.x254.co

BUSINESS

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

Cytonn in Sh2.5bn project as frim moves to address housing deficit

Leading property developer, Cytonn Real Estate has commenced construction of Taraji Heights, a Sh2.5 billion project geared at addressing a housing shortage problem that has plagued the country as demand for good quality affordable units surges.

The project, which sits on a 3-acre piece of land in Ruaka, Kiambu County, will add over 240 housing units and will be ready in two years’ time.

The project comes at a time when the housing industry faces an annual shortfall of more than 200,000 units according to Ministry of Housing and Rural Development.

“Our deal pipeline serves the various segments of the market ranging from the high end, such as the Amara Ridge, whose construction is nearing completion in Karen, to the middle to lower-middle income like Taraji Heights, which will offer a comprehensive lifestyle and a secure community to families,” said Cytonn’s Chief Investment Officer, Elizabeth Nkukuu.

She explained that the development would use local resources to ensure neighbouring communities fully benefit from the project.

“In addition to creating secure gated communities, these developments are also creating jobs, contributing to the growth of the economy and raising the standards of living in the country.

At its peak, the development will have created over 300 jobs on a daily basis majority of which shall come from the local community,” added Nkukuu.

Cytonn Chief Investment Officer Elizabeth Nkukuu speaks at a past event.

Speaking at the event, Kiambu Governor H.E William Kabogo said the project serves as a benchmark to other developers who are eyeing the County.

“Kiambu is one of the fastest growing counties in the country and with that comes the demand for housing.

The rate of population growth in the county stands at about 2 per cent and the population is projected to be at 1,174,087 by the end of this year,” said

Governor Kabogo.

“With this kind of growth ability to create employment for the people living here then is very important and that is why my Government is happy to partner with developers like Cytonn who on top of creating signature developments like Taraji heights and the Alma are creating employment opportunities for our youth,” he said.

Other developments under Cytonn’s

Etihad Airways moves to enforce new electronic devices ban on US-bound flights Abu Dhabi national airline, Etihad Airways, has reassured passengers of its highest level of service to minimize disruption following the introduction of a new US travel directive on electronic devices.

The directive states that as of March 25, 2017, passengers on all US-bound flights from, or transiting through, Abu Dhabi International Airport will not be permitted to carry electronic devices bigger than a smart phone or mobile into the aircraft cabin.

The move had sent mixed reactions with passengers threatening to boycott airlines that implement the same.

The directive, issued by the US Transportation Security Administration, does not however affect flights departing from the United States.

It states that items such as laptop computers, tablets including iPads, gaming devices, cameras and e-readers will be required to be placed in checked-in luggage. Medical devices are however exempt and can be carried on-board.

To avoid inconvenience, Etihad Airways, which also has operations in Kenya, is encouraging guests to pack the prohibited items in their checked baggage. Any

prohibited electronic devices will have to be declared and placed in padded envelopes before being securely taken to the aircraft luggage hold by staff.

Such items will be returned to guests on arrival in the US, while conveniently, other items of checked-in luggage can be collected at the final destination in the United States.

The airways is currently sending email alerts to all US-bound travellers advising of the new directive.

Signage are also being placed at check-in desks at airports around the world where staff will inform guests to pack any prohibited electronic devices in their checked luggage.

It is worth noting that all Etihad Airways’ US flights are equipped with mobile and Wi-Fi connectivity, together with power and USB points at every seat enabling guests to remain connected through their mobiles and smart phones.

In addition, guests are also encouraged to avoid carrying spare battery packs larger than the permitted size as these will not be allowed in either the luggage hold or the cabin. @kevin_x254

mandate include an upcoming Ruiru mixed use development on 100 acres, Newtown city in Athi River sitting on 1,000 acres, The Alma, a mixed-use development in Ruaka, The Ridge in Ridgeways along the Northern Bypass, Situ Village, a gated community in Karen and Amara Ridge, also a gated community in Karen which is 85 per cent complete among others. @enock_x254

MEAN 102.9083 128.3458 111.0711 8.2525 34.8855 21.6990

BUY SELL 102.8083 103.0083 128.2017 128.4900 110.9544 111.1878 8.2378 8.2671 34.8030 34.9680 21.6293 21.7687

HF Group registers pre-tax profit of Shs1.4 billion despite drop in property sales

Integrated financial services provider HF Group registered a pretax profit of Sh1.4 billion in the year ending December 31, 2016. This was despite a drop in property sales and a difficult operating environment.

During a similar period in 2015, the Group posted a pre-tax profit of Sh1.8 billion.

The company’s net interest income grew to Sh3.9 billion during the twelve months compared to Sh3.6 billion over the same period in 2015.

Non-interest income dropped 35 per cent to Sh755.5 million from Sh1.17 billion the previous year. The drop was attributed to the effects of lower property sales, reduced lending and a drop in forex trading income.

The company’s loans and advances to customers increased to Sh54.5 billion up from Sh53 billion over the same period last year.

Insider lending to directors, shareholders and associates went down by 20 per cent from Sh735 million to Sh582 million as at the end of 2016.

Customer deposits dropped to Sh38.8 billion during the period under review compared to Sh41.9 billion in 2015.

This was attributed to adverse market conditions that saw a number of wholesale depositors transfer their deposits to tier 1 Banks and Government securities.

The Group attracted Sh2.74 billion from two financiers during the period for onward lending to small and medium enterprises. @Dennis_x254

Kenya Power employees among eight arrested for vandalism, theft and distribution of company equipment Eight people, including two Kenya Power employees, were arrested over the weekend for vandalism and theft of electricity distribution equipment.

This follows intensified countrywide operations carried out by the company’s security team to weed out vandals and illegal electricity connections.

Robert Njenga Githige, a driver attached to Kenya Power’s Nairobi West Region was arrested for failing to account for 36 street lights out of the 79 he had collected from Likoni Road Stores for delivery to Dagoretti Depot.

He appeared before Milimani Law Courts this morning and was released on a cash bail of Sh300,000 and surety of Sh500,000 pending mention of the case that is scheduled to take place on April 10, 2017.

At the same time, five people were arrested at Kaunyweni Village in Thatha, Machakos County in connection with vandalism of

two 50 KVA transformers.

The stolen equipment was intercepted as it was being transported to an unknown customer in Meru.

Those arrested are Andrew Lusaba (a Kenya Power employee attached to Matuu Depot), James Muli, (a former employee at Mlolongo Depot), Godwin Lihali (Contractor) and the driver of the vehicle used to transport the transformers and his assistant.

The arrests come less than a month after a Kenya Power employee was charged at the Kajiado Law Courts for constructing an illegal line and uprating a transformer.

Kenya Power’s Security Services Manager, Major Geoffrey Kigen has cautioned members of the public against engaging in illegal activities such as theft and vandalism.

“All suspicious persons should be reported to the police or Kenya Power offices for further action,” he said. @enock_x254

BUSINESS 9

Barclays Exchange Traded Fund enables investors to track price of gold bullion TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2017

Investors within Kenya and indeed, the wider East African region now have an opportunity to capitalise on Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) following the launch and listing of the Barclays’s New Gold ETF on the Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE).

The New Gold ETF, which is also listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), enables investors to capitalise on an instrument which tracks the price of Gold Bullions and is based on the real time value of the underlying asset they track.

“New Gold ETF will introduce depth and range to the NSE further entrenching the Exchange as the undisputed regional financial hub and based on our interactions with brokers and fund managers the market is hungry for this product,” said Barclays Bank of Kenya Managing Director, Jeremy Awori.

Speaking at the launch, NSE Chief Executive, Mr Geoffrey Odundo explained that ETFs are a significant and highly successful product of financial innovation that are found in more developed financial markets.

“We are happy to add another new segment for investors to benefit from.

ETFs allow investors to spread their

Sh500 million, will be available for this market at the time of the listing with the opportunity for growth, depending on demand.

An ETF is a marketable security that tracks an index, a commodity, bonds, or a basket of assets like an index fund. Unlike mutual funds, an ETF trades like a common stock on a stock exchange. ETFs experience price changes throughout the day as they are bought and sold.

The New Gold ETF was first listed in South Africa in 2004 as the 3rd gold ETF in the world. The first gold ETF was launched in the US in 2003. New Gold ETF has since been successfully launched in Botswana (2010), Nigeria (2011), Ghana (2012), Mauritius (2013) and Namibia (2014). @enock_x254

risk, diversify their portfolio and have ease of purchase and exit,” he said.

Kenya becomes the 7th market within

the Barclays Africa Group to launch this proposition, which, valued at approximately $1.4 billion (Sh144

Finnish energy firms in move to provide clean energy to local SMEs Finnish technology group, Wärtsilä, has partnered with Solar Fire Concentration, another Finland based company, to launch a new off grid energy technology that targets small and medium-sized enterprises in kenya.

Dubbed the GoSol.org project,the new technology is set to help local entrepreneurs save money, increase local wealth, create job opportunities, reinvest in their communities, protect the environment, eradicate poverty and improve their health leading to their overall empowerment.

The firms say the initiative aims at breaking the cost-barriers currently limiting the deployment of solar thermal technologies in local entrepreneurial applications in East Africa “We are pleased to be the primary sponsor of the GoSol project. Wärtsilä has been in East Africa since the 1990’s and has already built over 75 large scale power plants,” Wärtsilä Energy Solutions and Business Development Manager, Mr George Oywer said.

“With the GoSol project, we have an opportunity to help African micro entrepreneurs especially in the rural areas, who are the basis for a good society. The use of solar power in the project is aligned to our corporate vision of providing access to clean energy hence our decision to sponsor

the GoSol project,” he added.

“The electrification ratio in Kenya is low: national electricity access is at 32 per cent, rural electrification access is at 19 per cent. This means that there are a lot of households and small entrepreneurs especially in rural areas that are still dependent on biomass to fulfill their energy needs,” noted GoSol Project Managing Director, Eva Wissenz.

“While developing this technology we have kept in mind the African landscape. The technology used is powerful but is easy to use made with locally available materials making the maintenance uncomplicated. The SOL models capture direct solar energy and make it usable at low cost over a large temperature range. The models can generate energy up to 6KW and its applications can vary from roasting 20kg of peanuts in 3.5hrs or roasts 15kg

of cocoa beans in 2 hours or bake 100 scones in 35 minutes or bake 30 200g loaves of bread in 40 minutes,” Eva explained.

GoSol has started operating successfully in the Kisumu and Turkana area and to facilitate working with communities and ensure the follow up of the pilots, GoSol is partnering with the NGO World Vision through their Weconomy program.

Kenya’s demand for power is currently at 2200 megawats (MW) while installed capacity is 2400 MW expected to rise approximately to 7500 MW by 2030.

While the government is making commendable efforts to meet the future demand, experts say there is a need to provide such off grid solutions that can impact livelihoods and help alleviate poverty in rural areas.

A baker uses GoSol’s technology to prepare his goods.

@Dennis_x254

billion), is the largest Gold ETF in Africa and the 7th largest in the world.

Up to 400,000 units, valued at nearly

Barclays Bank CEO Jeremy Awori speaks during the launch of Kenya’s first Exchange Traded Fund (ETF).

Photo/Edwin Gitobu/ Xnews

Kenyans abroad ranked biggest senders of mobile money remittances The Kenyan diaspora is the biggest sender of digital remittances to mobile accounts, a new report released by WorldRemit has shown. The analysis comes at a time when the world is marking the 10th anniversary of ground-breaking mobile money service provider M-Pesa.

Data shows 93 per cent of WorldRemit’s money transfers to Kenya go to mobile money account showing that Kenyans continue to be early adopters of innovative technology, even when abroad. Mobile money has played a key role in the growth of WorldRemit’s Kenyan customer base, attracted by the low price, speed and convenience of sending instant remittances from the app or website directly to a mobile phone in Kenya.

In January 2017, WorldRemit customers transferred more than $140 million (Sh14.4 billion) at an annualised rate to Kenya, making WorldRemit one of the largest remittance companies serving the Kenyan diaspora. Top remittancesending countries are the UK, Australia, US, Germany, Canada and Nordic countries.

Around three million Kenyans live abroad, with large communities in North America, Europe and Australia.

The remittances play an important role in Kenya’s economy – inward

remittances reached a record value of just under $161 million (Sh16.6 billion) in November 2016, according to the Central Bank of Kenya, making it one of the nation’s top earners.

WorldRemit is now connected to over a fifth of all mobile money accounts - 112 million of 500 million mobile money accounts around the world. Meanwhile, 74 per cent of all international remittances to mobile money accounts coming from money transfer operators are sent via WorldRemit.

The company has pioneered mobile to mobile remittances, sending to 32 mobile money services in 24 countries - more than any other money transfer service.

Globally, WorldRemit customers send more than 580,000 transfers every month to over 140 destinations.

WorldRemit makes sending money as easy as sending an instant message.

“Kenya is famed for leading Africa’s digital transformation, and today it is Kenyans abroad who are at the forefront of digitising international money transfers. Most of our Kenyan customers use our mobile app, demonstrating the strong demand for convenience when sending to friends and family,” Ismail Ahmed, Founder and CEO at WorldRemit, commented. @kevin_x254

10

BUSINESS TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2017

Fusion appoints new CEO as firm eyes signature property projects

Fusion Capital Limited, the Nairobi based real estate developer and private equity house, has announced the appointment of Daniel Kamau as group CEO. Kamau replaces Luke Kinoti, who retires on March 31, 2017 in order to pursue other business interests.

Kamau has served the group for the last eleven years, and has been responsible for many of its most significant development projects, including Flamingo Towers on Mara Road, Upper hill and 4th Ngong Avenue at Community, as well as the iconic Kigali Heights in Rwanda amongst other projects spread across the East Africa region.

“We are delighted to have found our new CEO from within our business. Daniel has proved himself over more than ten years with Fusion, and will continue to drive the company forward,” said Fusion Group Chairman, Phil Goodwin.

“Our mission is to build great places for Kenyans, Rwandans and Ugandans to work, relax and live. We use the best design and technologies from around the world, and execute our African projects to global standards. I would like to thank Luke Kinoti, on his retirement, for his faithful service over many years since helping found the business in 2006. We are grateful to him, and wish him well

in his retirement,” Goodman added.

“It is a great honour to be chosen for this role. We have exciting times ahead of us, as the Region’s cities continue to rapidly develop, and Fusion will play its full part,” Kamau commented.

Fusion is a leading real estate investor and developer and has been in operation over the last 11 years.

Currently the firm has real estate commitments across the East Africa region. Fusion is currently working on several signature projects on the residential space, retail space, warehousing space and retail which will remain key focus areas for the company going forward. @Dennis_x254

Phil Goodwin (Right) and Daniel Kamau during the appointment. Kamau has been responsible for many of the group’s most significant development projects.

Software firm Oracle pushes for of digital solutions among corporates, SMEs Software multinational, Oracle has reiterated its commitment to assist corporates and small and medium-sized organisations in their digital transformation journey by encouraging the adoption of infrastructure as a service (Iaas) solutions. This is in a push to further drive the digital transformation.

Speaking at the Oracle Africa Digital day, Abdul Rahman Al Thehaiban, Oracle Senior Vice President for Technology for the Middle East and Africa said Africa is a priority market for the company and that the firm is committed to support the continent’s Industry 4.0 preparedness with its latest Cloud solutions.

“With total cloud revenues, including IaaS reaching $1.2 billion (Sh123.5 billion) in our Q3 of the 2017 fiscal year, Oracle is well positioned to support Africa’s digital transformation revolution that will act as a catalyst for social and economic growth,” he said.

Oracle estimates that by 2025, 80 per cent of the IT budgets will be spent on the cloud service.

“By this time, we are also likely to have 80 per cent of the IT budget spent on business innovation and only 20 per cent on system maintenance,” he added. As cloud adoption continues to increase in Africa, organisations are now looking to transition several of their business functions to the cloud for maximum return on investment (ROI).

Oracle Cloud IaaS offers a set of core capabilities, such as elastic compute, storage, networking, bare metal, migration tools, and container that helps businesses quickly increase value and @kevin_x254 performance.

University students invited to ‘job shadow’ High inflation, rising food prices prompt Monetary Policy Committee to hold at Kenya School of Monetary Studies as benchmark interest rate at 10 per cent CBK marks 2017 Global Money Week As part of this year’s edition of Global Money Week (GMW), students currently enrolled in University or College have been invited to Job Shadow for one day at the Kenya School of Monetary Studies (KSMS), the Central Bank of Kenya has confirmed.

The initiative began on March 27, 2017 and will run until April 2, 2017.

Job shadowing is a work experience option where students learn about a job by walking through the work day as a shadow to a competent worker. The job shadowing work experience is a temporary, unpaid exposure to the workplace in an occupational area of interest to the student.

Job-shadowing is often touted as a career-exploration activity for students to help them determine a career path to follow. Shadowing also helps students see how their textbook learning can be applied in the real world.

GMW is an annual global celebration held in March each year, initiated by Child & Youth Finance International (CYFI), with local and regional events and activities aimed at inspiring children and youth to learn about money, saving, creating livelihoods, gaining employment and becoming an entrepreneur.

Students have been invited to shadow positions at the Kenya School of Monetary Studies, including the posts of Human Resource Manager; Administrative Services; Conferencing Manager; Head, Management Development Centre; Head, Research Centre; Head, Business Development and Corporate Affairs Finance Manager; Head, Information Technology, as well as Head, Academics.

“We aim to build capacity and create a new generation of finance practitioners possessing

competency in the field of finance,” said KSMS Executive Director, Prof Kinandu Muragu in a past statement.

The Kenya School of Monetary Studies was established and registered as a corporate entity under the Companies Act (CAP. 486) Laws of Kenya and Limited

by Guarantee in 1997 to build capacity in response to the bank failures in the 1980s and 1990s.

The bank failures were mainly attributed to inadequate staff with requisite skills in banking and financial management, economic reforms arising from a World Bank/IMF Structural Adjustment Programme and inadequate postgraduate economists required to formulate economic policies.

The institution now seeks to deliver international best practice knowledge based capacity building programmes driven by the demands of the financial sector. @Dennis_x254

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) yesterday held its benchmark interest rate at 10 per cent citing a sharp increase in food process driven by prevailing drought that have raked some parts of the country.

“Food inflation rose to 16.5 per cent in February from 12.5 per cent in January, as a result of the drought conditions,” said MPC Chairman and Central Bank Governor, Dr Patrick Njoroge.

The main food items driving inflation in February were tomatoes, kale, sugar, maize, oranges, cabbages, Irish potatoes, and milk.

Food prices are expected to remain elevated in March and April due to the dry weather conditions, but ease with the long rains.

The 3-month annualised non-food-nonfuel inflation remained relatively stable, suggesting that demand pressures were muted.

“The Committee remains concerned about the prevailing uncertainties, including the impact of the interest rate caps on the effectiveness of monetary policy,” the MPC said in a statement.

Section 36 (4) of the Central Bank of Kenya Act stipulates that the Central Bank shall publish the lowest rate of interest it charges on loans to banks and that rate shall be

known as the Central Bank Rate (CBR). The level of the CBR is reviewed and announced by the Monetary Policy Committee at least every two months. The CBR is the base for all monetary policy operations in order to enhance clarity and certainty in monetary policy implementation.

The government capped commercial rates at 4 percentage points above the central bank rate last September, worsening already lethargic private sector credit growth.

Month-on-month overall inflation rose to 9 per cent in February from 7 per cent in January 2017, almost entirely due to increases in food prices while inflation for all other categories in the CPI basket was below 5 per cent.

The Committee noted that the slowdown in credit growth largely reflected sector developments in trade, manufacturing, real estate, and private households, which account for 60 per cent of total credit to the private sector.

The Committee concluded that overall inflation is expected to remain outside the government target range in the near term due to the elevated food prices, even as demand pressures remain subdued. @enock_x254

12

FASHIONSCOOP

TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2017

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THE PRODUCTION AND DISPOSAL OF PLASTIC PAPER BAGS CAUSES ALMOST EVERY KIND OF POLLUTION

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Tanzanian President John Pombe Magufuli yesterday ordered the release of rapper Emmanuel Elibariki aka Nay wa Mitego. The rapper was arrested for releasing a song deemed as insulting to the government. The song released last week went viral and criticises the government of Tanzania and freedoms of speech. It has however emerged that President Magufuli loves the song. The President has actually asked the artiste to remix the song and take on other issues such as tax evasion, corruption, drug trafficking and other vices affecting the community. Nay wa Mitego was arrested days after President Magufuli warned media to be careful about exercising their freedom.

HOT TOPICS

Magufuli orders release of critic rap artiste

ou won’t be hard pressed to find plastic bags lying on streets and in gutters around the city because to put it simply, they are everywhere.

We seem to have created an entire plastic economy off of these bags because they are easy to mass produce and they are cheap.

In many rural areas everything is peddled in bags because products are usually not sold whole. Rice, sugar and flour are poured into plastic bags, which are then packed inside other bags and if you are lucky there might be some newspaper in the middle.

Plastic bags have acquired a terrible reputation despite their almost universal use and seemingly limitless utility. They don’t just carry whatever you bought them in, they carry whatever you can fit inside them. But they have some disastrous consequences with regard to the environment. The production and disposal of plastic paper bags causes

almost every kind of pollution imaginable and with up to 1 trillion of these bags being produced every year the large scale effects are catastrophic.

Water and air pollution in the factory process and goes right back to water and soil pollution in the discarding of the bags.

Plastic bags, because they are not quite natural--they are created from a manmade polymer derived from petroleum, can reportedly take up to 1000 years to break down. So potentially the first ever plastic bags that were made in the 1960s might be still lying around somewhere.

So what’s the alternative? Paper bags or tote bags? They carry some shortcomings of their own. Paper bags are made from wood pulp and this could possibly contribute to massive deforestation to meet the needs of consumers everywhere not to mention they are considerably more expensive to produce. Paper bags also pollute the environment during their manufacture,

@kevin_x254

Frasha goes ‘chap chap’

O

ne third of the P-Unit rap trio Frasha aka Francis Hamisi who is gunning for the Athi River Member of County Assembly in Machakos County, has joined the Maendeleo Chap Chap party. ‘Today I joined Maendeleo Chap Chap due to the principles this party stand for. I will work with Governor Alfred Mutua to bring the developments that he has done and replicate this to Athi River,’ said Frasha.

The artiste who quit his job as a nurse and opted for the limelight as a rap artiste is now fully into politics but says he will not stop making music even when he is elected as MCA Athi River ward.

Gert-Johan Coetzee 2017

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even more so than with plastic bags. “Paper manufacturing is a highly energy-intensive process,” states a report in the Energy and Environmental Profile of the U.S. Pulp and Paper Industry. Paper production emits air pollution, specifically 70 percent more pollution than the production of plastic bags.

Of tote bags, the situation is also rather bleak. ‘Cotton tote bags exhibited the highest and most severe global-warming potential by far since they require more resources to produce and distribute,’ as is stated in The Atlantic. Compared to plastic bags, tote bags are terrible for the environment.

What fails us with plastic bags is disposal and recycling. Instead of dumping bags on the side of the road which will then end up choking ocean life, we need to find a better way to discard them and come up with a better solution than banning a product with zero substitutes.

C

hibu Dangote popularly known as Diamond Platnumz is definitely balling. The Wasafi records Chief Executive Officer has hinted that his Jewellery costs a whopping 72,000 dollars (sh 7.2 million). In an Instagram post, the ‘Marry You’ singer displayed his gold and diamond rings, bracelets and neck chains and captioned; ‘Thanks to God for your daily blessings never thought I would be able to walk with 22,000 $ on my Hand!!!... Thanks to God for my new GOLD & DIAMONDS collection...I never thought I would be able to hang 50,000$ on my neck...

jewellery is worth 72,000 dollars

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HE HAS COMPLAINED ABOUT THEM ENOUGH TIMES THAT WE HAVE GOT INTO FIGHTS ABOUT IT

@christine_x254

Dear Daphne,

Yes it is your head and not his and therefore he really shouldn’t have any opportunity to tell you what you can do with it. The best thing you can do for your state of mind is continue standing up for yourself. But if you do feel that the fight is just not worth it, then take it out and do something else with your hair. At the end of the day it’s all up to you because it is just a hairstyle after all, but you shouldn’t have to give up something that you like, something that has nothing to do with your boyfriend just to make him happy.

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Married life could very possibly make your career take a back seat. If you wanted to switch up jobs, you might end up staying just to provide for the family and for women, quitting work in the long term is a possibility.

things you have to do before you get

his generation might not necessarily be poster children for early marriage because, nobody’s really getting married. But if you are one of the lucky ones and decide to take the plunge, here are some things ●Have had your heart broken and

broken someone’s heart If you are a normal healthy person, it’s not fun being at either end of this spectrum which is why you need to learn how to deal with it early on. Especially if you have had your heart broken it’ll be a rough journey to feeling normal again and it’s probably a better idea to have prior experience in mending a broken heart before diving into a marriage. ●Figure out what you like doing alone It’s very easy to get sucked into someone else’s personality especially if you are

spending every waking minute together. So before saying ‘I do’ make sure that you have hobbies of your own and more than that a life of your own. Not say that every marriage ends in divorce but in case much easier if you have some personal independence. ●Have a clear vision for your career Married life could very possibly make your career take a back seat. If you wanted to switch up jobs, you might end up staying just to provide for the family and for women, quitting work in the long term is a possibility. Despite all these things make sure you have an actual path that you will stick on. ●Figure out the child situation Ideally both of you should have the same stance on children. Not just ideally, it’s a requirement, because this could end the

union before it begins. If you decide that kids are the way to go even the way you raise them has to be discussed because children do require a lot of structure growing up. ●Travel See the world a bit. It doesn’t have to be outside of the country or anything so grand but take a trip alone or with family and friends and gain a little experience of how people live outside of your world. ●

of a relationship. Figure out how the both most intense points. If you both come out unscathed you might just make it.

@christine_x254

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NOTHOFAGUS HOTEL & SPA, Chile In the midst of the temperate rainforest, as if it had come from some unknown kingdom, a tree extends its branches towards the sky and Nothofagus emerges. A magnificent building constructed with noble materials where sensations, shapes, textures and sounds can be experienced that will bring guests back to the simplicity of nature.

PLAYA VIVA, Mexico The treehouse is located in palm trees as living “piers” raised 6 feet above the ground.

Each room is outfitted with a King Bed, private bathroom, ocean view and small lounge area with in-floor hammock. Who doesn’t want to stay in a treehouse by the ocean? King bed in the “perch” can divide into two singles, plus there is an additional day bed located in “bathhouse.”

TONGABEZI LODGE, Zambia Five Houses and four River Cottages are individually styled and cater for two to five guests. Experience private romance at the Honeymoon House, wake up amongst the trees in the Tree House, or enjoy a romantic dinner from your own private deck overlooking the Zambezi River from a River Cottage.

My relationship with my boyfriend is the best it has ever been and I ca truly see a future with him. The one problem that we have is that he doesn’t seem to like it when I wear weaves. To be honest I don’t see the big problem here and it is my head after all I can do whatever I want with it but he doesn’t like seeing me in them. He has complained about them enough times that we have got into fights about it and I am very frustrated about it. It’s not like they are permanent I take them out as soon as I feel like they have stayed in long enough. It’s my hair and I can do whatever I want with it.

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SPORT

Olunga tipped to surpass Oliech’s scoring record TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2017

Harambee Stars striker Michael Olunga has been tipped to break the all-time scoring record currently held by retired footballer Dennis Oliech.

The China-based forward has sealed his place as an indispensable figure for the national team setup netting in Kenya’s last two games. And now, former Stars forward Henry Motego has tipped him to become the country’s all-time leading scorer.

Oliech who announced his international requirement in April last year is currently Kenya’s all-time top scorer with top scorer with 34 goals in 66 matches.

The younger Olunga has shown all the signs that he is up to the task to take the crown from the retired forward.

Olunga was the only goal scorer for Harambee Stars in their 1-1 draw against neighbours Uganda on Thursday last week and again three days later when they overcame DR Congo 2-1 at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos.

While his favoured strike partner Jesse Were struggles to bring his club’s shooting boots to the national team, Olunga is thriving on both fronts and has now scored thrice in two games against DR Congo’s highly rated Leopards.

He was on target when Okumbi’s men claimed a famous 1-0 win over DR Congo in Kinshasa last year while his latest brace on Sunday – on his birthday – helped Haramber Satrs break a 38-year winless record against the Leopards on home soil.

“When you look at forward like recently, Oliech, John Baraza, Bonaventure Maruti, Maurice Sunguti, Robert Mambo and even Mike Okoth, you got to accept we have some talent here, “ Motego said of Olunga.

“I think the crown will be his very soon, we are yet to have a player hit the 50goal mark for the national team, but at 23 with over 16 goals and give than he came into the national team recently, it means we have something special,’

Michael Olunga during the Sunday friendly match against DRC Congo at the Kenyatta Stadium in Machakos. The striker has been tipped to break Dennis Oliech’s all time goal scoring record.

PHOTO: CAPITAL FM

added the former Shabana FC forward.

Olunga’s move from Swedish top division club Djugardens IF to Chinese Super League (CSL) newcomers Guizhou Zhicheng was met with fierce criticism with many calling the switch money-motivated and step down his career trajectory says he enjoys his

football and that is what matters.

“When I was at Gor Mahia FC I would score, just like I did when I went to Sweden. As much as the league is important, it goes down to the player’s attitude. I know I owe Kenyan’s goals because the coach has entrusted me with the striking role, therefore I must

work hard,” Olunga stated.

For now the player can look forward to maintaining the same momentum especially for the upcoming 2019 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. @amos_x254

SPORT 15

Neymar to United, Hazard off in latest transfer gossip TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2017

Malawi next for Stars April friendly match

Kenya’s Harambee Stars will play Malawi next month in yet another friendly match as the team gears up for next year’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) to be hosted in the country.

Football Kenya Federation boss Nick Mwendwa and Stars head coach Stanley Okumbi have expressed their optimism from the gallant show from the national team during the two friendly matches they played last week.

Kenya will be hosting the biennial continental showpiece designated for home based players in January next year, and the federation is working round the clock to ensure Kenya puts in a good squad to challenge for the title currently held by DR Congo.

“The coming friendly match will be exclusively for the local lads. It will present them with the impetus of what to expect in the coming tournament. I have confidence the squad will be ready to give a serious challenge for the title,” Mwendwa revealed.

Okumbi who handed first team debuts to goalkeeper Patrick Matasi, defender Robinson Kamura and forward Samuel Onyango, had praise for the lads insisting the country has more talent that needs to be given opportunities to shine.

“I really like the mentality of this squad. I like it also when players work hard and are willing to make use of the chances they get. I have a wide range of players whom I want to experiment with before we can settle on the team to work with,” Okumbi said. Posta Rangers Jockins Atudo, Gor skipper Musa Mohammed and goalkeeper Boniface Oluoch, Kariobangi Sharks’ Osborne Monday and Tusker’s Noah Wafula were the other players who were in action during the two friendly matches where stars settled for 1-1 draw with Uganda cranes in a match they dominated before beating Congo 2-1 last Sunday.

With less than ten matches remaining to the end of the Premier League season, rumour mills have started rolling with several stars across Europe being linked with possible clubs.

The latest transfer gossip intimate Barcelona star Neymar Jnr could be heading to the Premier League.

British football newspaper Sports claimed today that Manchester United are prepared to meet Neymar’s £173m release clause and are willing to pay the 25-year-old Brazilian striker £416,000 per week if he joins them from Barcelona this summer.

United had initially been linked with a possible move for Atletico forward Antoinne Griezmann only for the French international to delink himself with the talks saying he is happy in Madrid.

With Wayne Rooney expected to leave Old Trafford in the summer in search of more playing time, United are rumoured to be preparing for a big summer buy given the huge drop in wages anticipated with their club captain’s exit.

Also, Sport reported that Arsenal forward Alexis Sanchez could join German champions Bayern Munich this summer.

The 28-year-old Chile forward has been linked with big European clubs among them PSG, Juventus and Sevilla after falling out with

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger.

Meanwhile, Premier League leaders Chelsea are open to letting midfielder Eden Hazard leave.

The 26-year-old Chile international is said to be wanted by Real Madrid this summer according to Spanish newspaper Marca.

In other transfer rumours, Southampton are said to be preparing a £20m bid for Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho, 27, who has impressed during his loan spell at Crystal Palace.

Barcelona forward Neymar who has been linked with a move to Manchester United PHOTO: / EPA

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ksh 621,230 each ksh 79,484 each ksh 12,734 each ksh 3,212 each

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Also, Monaco midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko, 22, met Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger in a Paris hotel last year, but turned down a move to the Gunners. He has now reportedly agreed to join Chelsea according to French Football via Daily Exprtess.

And finally, Everton are looking at 21-year-old Orlando City striker Cyle Larin as they search for a potential replacement for 23-year-old forward Romelu Lukaku, who is refusing to sign a new contract according to the Sun.

TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2017

HARAMBEE STARS ON-FORM STRIKER OLUNGA NOW SETS EYES ON OLIECH’S GOAL RECORD

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Plummeting Netherlands seek upturn in Italy duel Dutch stars Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneider in training ahead of tonight’s friendly matches tagainst Italy. Right, Italy’s Danielle De Rossi. PHOTOS: EPA

N

etherlands will host Italy in Amsterdam tonight in an international friendly match as the team seeks to respond to their plummeting form on the football arena.

The two European football giants meet on the back of contrasting fortunes in their respective World Cup qualification campaigns at the weekend where Netherlands lost 2-0 to Bulgaria while Italy were the victorious side with a similar score line in their match against Albania.

The shocking loss means Netherlands struggles continued and it will be a tough job for interim coach Fred Grim to turn things around against an Italian side that boasts of even better talent.

The Saturday result led to the sacking of manager Danny Blind after another poor start to a qualification campaign. He also failed to take them to Euro 2016 as they finished 4th in their group, and they currently sit in the same position in World Cup qualifying with just seven points from their opening five games. This leaves them six points adrift of top spot holders

Match comes barely two days after Dutch coach Delay Blind was sacked following shocking loss in Bulgaria on Saturday

France already. That means Fred Grim will take charge of the team as interim manager tonight as he looks to improve on Netherlands’ recent record. The hosts have won two, drawn two, and lost three of their last seven games, and their home record actually looks a lot worse than that.

In front of their own fans they have won one, drawn one, and lost six of their last eight games, with a draw against Belgium and a win over Belarus being joined by defeats to United States, Iceland, Czech Republic, France (twice) and Greece. The Netherlands are currently fourth in Group A, six points off leaders France and three points away from Sweden in second after five games played. They have plenty of work to do if they are to avoid the agony of missing out on a second successive major tournament.

Italy will be hoping to take advantage of this poor home record, and it works in their favour that they are actually in very good form. They have won four, drawn two, and lost one of their seven games since Gianpiero Ventura took over from

Antonio Conte. The Azzurri continued their solid progress on the road to Russia with a comfortable 2-0 home win against Albania on Friday. And that leaves them second in their World Cup qualifying group, level on points with Spain but lagging behind on goal difference. They are already four points clear of 3rd placed Israel, so now they just need to battle it out with the group favorites in a bid to make automatic qualification. Away from home Italy have won seven of their last 11 games, losing to Belgium and Germany along the way.

Italy have won three, drawn three, and lost one of their last seven meetings with Holland. Italy have a poor record away from home in non-competitive matches; indeed, the Azzurri have claimed just two wins from their last 15 friendly matches away from home – a sequence of results that includes a 1-1 draw between these two nations back in 2013.

Arjen Robben will lead Holland out as he looks for his 31st international goal, whilst veteran midfielder Wesley Sneijder has 30

goals in his 126 caps. Ajax hot prospect Matthijs de Ligt is hoping to start at the back again after winning his first cap against Bulgaria.

For Italy, veteran goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon who made his 1000th professional appearance in the win over Albania on Friday will take a rest with namesake Gianluigi Donnarumma set to replace him between the sticks. Cirro Immobile and Andrea Belotti could start up front again, although Ventura also has Eder and Lorenzo Insigne to call upon. Marco Verratti and Daniele De Rossi could against partner in midfield as the Italians look to better their form in friendly matches.

Another big match tonight will see Spain take on France in Paris whiel Portugal will host Sweden as European teams take advantage of the international break to test their players and new formations.

Russia host Belgium while Finland travel to Austria. Albania will seek to respond to the loss against Italy when they welcome Bosnia Herzegovina.

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