Absa Bank Kenya Introduces ‘Buy Now and Pay Later’ feature for Card customers

Nairobi, 30 June 2023…Absa Bank Kenya has today introduced another innovation in the market, the Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) card feature that will help customers manage their expenses better.

Dubbed, Buy Now Lipa Pole Pole, this is a self-service payment option on the Absa mobile and internet banking platform, which provides a convenient way to manage customers’ expenses by spreading the cost of their purchases over time. The Absa Buy Now Lipa Pole Pole solution is the first of its kind to be offered exclusively by a bank in the Kenyan market for card customers.

The user-friendly card innovation offers Absa’s credit card customers the option to either pay for their purchases in full, immediately or in a structured repayment plan over a defined period between three to 12 months, thereby stretching their spending power.

Speaking during the launch of the new solution, Head of Card Payments at Absa Bank Kenya, Linda Kimani has said the introduction of the BNPL feature is a helpful tool for managing expenses, adding that it would go a long way in supporting customers to meet their needs in a flexible manner while supporting their cashflow positions.

“Given the prevailing economic environment in which many consumers are having to make tough spending decisions, we understand the growing need to manage one’s expenses and make purchases without straining one’s wallet. That’s why we’re excited to launch our BNPL card feature, which gives our customers the power and ease they need to pay for their purchases flexibly over time,” says Linda.

“By incorporating BNPL payments into their budgeting strategy, customers have more room to manage expenses such as payment of school fees or booking for holiday travel while maintaining a healthy financial outlook. We expect that the feature will give our customers more cash on hand and therefore more control over their finances, helping them to get things done,” added Linda.

The setup and confirmation process for Absa’s, Buy Now Lipa Pole Pole card feature is instant and hassle-free, ensuring a seamless experience for customers without any unnecessary delays or complications.

“We are confident that this solution not only benefits our customers greatly but also positions us as market leaders and innovators in the payments business” added Linda.

According to data from the Central Bank of Kenya, the number of card-based transactions recorded as of March 2023 topped 5,669,185, denoting a 5.3 percent increase compared to the number of transactions recorded in February 2023. This is an indicator of the growing attractiveness of the convenience of the card payment option.

Rural Schools Shine in Pwani Oil’s 2nd Edition of The Sawa Essay National Writing Competition

· The competition attracted over 7,000 schools participating from across the country.

· The competition targeted grades 6 and 7 and aimed at sharpening their creative writing and thinking skills.

· Five national winners unveiled during the awards ceremony

MOMBASA, KENYA, 30th June 2023…Pupils from schools in rural Kenya have emerged top in the 2nd edition of the Pwani Oil Sawa Essay National writing competition where 7,361 schools across 42 counties participated.

The competition was conducted in partnership with the Kenya Primary Schools Headteachers Association (KEPSHA). It is in line with Pwani Oils’ mission to refine the lives of communities around them by sharpening creative writing and thinking skills among pupils.

Ashley Michelle from Nyeri, Joel Chelot from West Pokot, Carol Shelmith Makena from Embu, Deborah Wanjiku from Nairobi and Isabella Amanda from Isiolo emerged as the overall National winners of the competition. Ashley Michelle from Nyeri was the overall winner.

The five were feted during the Sawa Essay Awards Ceremony held in Pwani Oils Kikambala plant, Mombasa County. They each received a 3-day fully paid trip to Mombasa, including a first-hand experience of Pwani Oil’s Kikambala Plant. They also received certificates, trophies and assorted gifts from the award’s key partners Sawa, Trufoods, Kartasi Brand and Umoja Rubbers. The ceremony was graced by the Ministry of Education Quality Assurance and Standards Assistant Director, Mr. Eliud Wambua who represented the Ministry of Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu.

Giving his remarks, the director not only congratulated the winners but also key stakeholders on their intentionality and commitment in supporting the education agenda in the country.

“We from the ministry appreciate the milestones made to date. Looking at the partners in this gathering today, we see a unity of purpose underscored by a vision to refine the lives of communities around us. It is through such competitions that we test the quality of education our children receive in their respective institutions. Therefore, we must never stop challenging our pupils to think over and above their classrooms. This strengthens and expands their thinking capacity and prepares them for better opportunities in the near future”.

Pwani Oil, Sawa Bathing Soap was this year’s main sponsor of the competition. The brand boasts six Sawa soap variants which include Rose, Original, Herbal, Strawberry, Lemon + Honey and the latest entrant Sawa Chocolate.

Speaking at the award ceremony, Pwani Oil Commercial Director Rajul Malde said, “At Sawa, we believe in the power of ideas and the strength of the written word. Through this competition, we sought to ignite the flames of creativity and inspire the next generation of thinkers and storytellers. And I must say, we have been overwhelmed by the sheer brilliance and passion displayed in the essays submitted. I congratulate all the winners and affirm our commitment to continuously support dreams and refine lives through our products and services”.

In his remarks, KEPSHA National Chairman, Johnson Nzioka congratulated all the winners noting that each essay was a testament to the potential within every individual to shape our society and drive positive change.

“Through their essays, these talented individuals have demonstrated the power of empathy, critical thinking, and creativity. They have offered us new lenses through which to view the world, encouraging us to reflect, question, and act. Their words have the potential to shape opinions, influence policies, and inspire generations to come. We commit, through their schools to offer all the necessary support and build their growth towards achieving their desired dreams”.

In its second edition, the competition targeted grades 6 and 7 pupils who focused on the theme Roses are Red and Violets are Blue, Color the world to reflect you. The theme aimed at sharpening their creative writing and thinking skills.

EAST AFRICA TEXTILE AND LEATHER WEEK [EATLW] 2023 OPENS WITH A GRAND CEREMONY

NAIROBI, KENYA – June 28, 2023 – The highly anticipated East Africa Textile and Leather Week [EATLW] 2023 commenced today with a remarkable opening ceremony at Arabuko Hall, Sarit Expo Center. This three-day conference and exhibition, taking place from June 28th to 30th, brings together key industry stakeholders and thought leaders from around the globe to explore the vast potential of East Africa’s garment manufacturing sector.

The apparel and textile industry in Africa, estimated to be valued at $31 billion in 2020, has become the continent’s second-largest sector after agriculture. With its continuous growth, this industry holds tremendous potential for job creation, particularly for women and youth. EATLW 2023 aims to be a game-changer in the East African textile landscape, serving as the most exclusive meeting platform for the home textile, leather accessories, and footwear industries.

Skander Negasi, Organizer & CEO of Trade and Fairs GmbH, expressed his excitement for EATLW 2023, saying “EATLW aims to be a transformative event that propels the East African textile and leather industry to new heights. We are thrilled to bring together industry stakeholders and thought leaders from around the world to explore the immense potential of this sector and foster meaningful collaborations. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and craftsmanship, EATLW is set to shape the future of the region’s fashion landscape.”

Featuring 150 exhibitors from East Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, as well as 3,500 wholesalers, retailers, chains, manufacturers and dealers from East and Central Africa, EATLW 2023 promises to showcase the vibrant fashion, textile, and leather industry of the region. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions, explore business opportunities, and gain insights into sustainability, innovation, and craftsmanship.

H.E. Thomas Wimmer, Deputy Ambassador at the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany to Kenya, shared his enthusiasm for the event, stating “This expo is about celebrating the vibrant fashion, textile, and leather industry of the region and will allow participants to have a better view of the East Africa textile landscape. For the next 2 days, we expect key industry stakeholders from around the globe to engage in meaningful exchanges with each other and explore opportunities to establish business relations.”

The opening ceremony was honoured by the presence of Dr. Juma Mukhwana, the Chief Guest and Principal Secretary, State Department of Industry at the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry, representing the Government of Kenya. In his address, Dr. Mukhwana highlighted the government’s commitment to developing the textile and leather value chains, recognizing their significance in driving national prosperity.

MAKE USE OF TECHNOLOGY TO CREATE JOBS SAYS PRINCIPAL SECRETARY KISIANG’ANI

Clive Ayuko

Nairobi: Tuesday, June 27th 2023:

The Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications, Prof. Edward Kisiang’ani, has urged the stakeholders in the creative economy to leverage technology and innovation to create more jobs and spur the nation’s economic growth.

Speaking on Tuesday at the Konza Technopolis Creative Economy Conference in Nairobi, PS Kisiang’ani noted that the government is working to streamline the creative sector for favourable tax regimes and financing policies.
The PS said that the government will spend KES 15.1 billion in developing the digital superhighway in a bid to position Kenya as a unique creative economy hub destination.

He also said that they are seeking financial support from the private sector to further develop the creative as the private sector seeks to leverage government facilities such as the digital superhighway and the Konza Technopolis Data Centre.

“The government is ready to support the creative economy so that it can create more jobs at individual and institutional level. This sector presents a positive opportunity for more job opportunities for Kenyans because we don’t have capacity in government to give everybody a job,” said PS Kisiang’ani.

“At the moment, we are looking at the tax regimes with a view to optimise and streamlined. We would like the creative to be promoted and bot to be punished by some of these tax regimes. We are also looking at the legal issues to ensure checks and balances in the sector to avoid infringement on privacy while advancing the creative economy,” added the PS.

The PS noted that they are looking at the possibility of giving upcoming creatives more support such as data storage and financial support from private partners.

On his end, John Paul Okwiri, Ag. CEO Konza Technopolis Development Authority (KoTDA) noted that they are supporting creative startups at the National Tier III data centre with one year free hosting in view of building a sustainable media city project.

He said: “You will realise that the youth are asking for opportunities. With our state of the art data centre, we are providing an opportunity for the youth in creative economy with storage. For all the startups, we are providing one year hosting and that’s why we are convening this conference so that we can showcase the opportunities.”

He noted that KoTDA is in the process of developing the Digital Media City which will focus on developing a media hub at Konza Technopolis.

The Konza Digital Media City is envisioned to provide an ecosystem that promotes training, research and innovation in the digital media and entertainment industries in Kenya and the African region.
During the event, Roy Gitahi, Founder and CEO of Art at Work Limited stressed the need to strengthen the partnerships and collaborations in the creative sector for more opportunities.

“What we found at Konza (National data centre) is something the private sector cannot build easily. But is it important because all this content can be placed at the centre and we can explore avenues of monetizing the data. This is something that the private and public sector must partner to drive,” He said.

The conference was also attended by Timothy Owase, CEO, Kenya Film Commission, Joel Omalwa, Ag. CEO, Kenya Film Classification Board and Wesley Maritim, Director Administration, State Department of ICT.

MEDIC EAST AFRICA AND MEDLAB EAST AFRICA TO HOST THE REGION’S LARGEST MEDICAL EXHIBITION THIS SEPTEMBER IN NAIROBI

NAIROBI, Kenya, 26th June 2023: The organisers of leading healthcare exhibitions like Arab Health, FIME, Africa Health, Medlab Middle East- Informa Markets have announced the commencement of Medic East Africa and Medlab East Africa. Taking place at KICC in Nairobi, Kenya, from 11-13 September 2023.



With the theme of “Redefining healthcare delivery in East Africa”, the event will be Held under the patronage of the Ministry of Health Kenya and will strive to bring together the international and regional healthcare communities to improve healthcare delivery for the people and transform the future of healthcare in East Africa.



The event aims to attract over 5,000 healthcare and laboratory professional visits from around the world, making it the biggest healthcare exhibition in the East African region. The event will also showcase over 150 leading global brands from over 20 countries like Abbott, Snibe Diagnostics, Crown Healthcare, and more. Confirmed countries participating at the event include France, Greece, Italy, Romania, Cyprus, Switzerland, Türkiye, Kenya, China, India, United Arab Emirates and United States.



The event will also include participation of key regional healthcare organisations including the Kenyan Healthcare Federation, the Association of Clinical Pathologists, the Surgical Society, the Medical Association and the National Public Health Institute.



In parallel to the exhibition, the free-to-attend congress will feature the Healthcare Summit 2.0 conference and the Laboratory educational sessions conference tracks will also take place throughout the 3-day event to offer a collaborative environment for healthcare and laboratory professionals, policymakers, researchers, and technology experts to discuss challenges and opportunities in achieving better health systems. The diverse line-up of regional and international experts will share cutting-edge insights and best practices on Healthcare Excellence, Public Health, and Equity to address public and private healthcare challenges in the region. Some of the featured speakers at the event include Adama Thiam, Head of Emergency Operations Support and Logistics – WHO, Dr Muthoni Karanja, HIV Prevention Specialist – Department of Defence Kenya, Gerald Macharia, Chairman – KNPHI and Aaron K Mulaki Head of Strategic Partnerships and Engagement, African Constituency Bureau for the Global Fund.



Commenting on the announcement, Medic East Africa and Medlab East Africa Exhibition Director Tom Coleman said, “With the growth of the healthcare and laboratory industries in East Africa, Medic East Africa and Medlab East Africa, will showcase the latest innovations and technologies driving the industry forward in the region, as well as provide the ultimate platform for meeting colleagues and discussing the latest trends impacting their respective industries.”



The convention will be a trading and business-sharing platform for industry professionals to promote interaction and trade amongst C-level management from hospitals, leading manufacturers, key government professionals, investors, dealers, and distributors. Visitors will be able to source from 9 dedicated product sectors, including medical equipment and devices, imaging and diagnostics, disposables and consumer goods, healthcare and general services, medical laboratory, and wellness and prevention.



Medic East Africa and Medlab East Africa 2023 is free to attend for healthcare and laboratory professionals and investors across the East African region with a keen interest in healthcare delivery.

WHY WOMEN CAN REGAIN VIRGINITY EVEN AFTER HAVING SEX MULTIPLE TIMES

17th June 2023

The biggest myth?Is the myth surrounding a woman’s virginity and, the hymen is a classic example of the metaphorization of a woman’s body

People interpret the hymen to be a marker of virginity and as such such women who have not had a penis penetrate their vagina are considered virgins which can be confirmed by confirming if the hymen has broken or not.

None of that is true? When the Vagina is penetrated the hymens stretches and when it breaks just like our skin it heals. The hymen does not just break and stay broken it is not a freshness seal. The metaphor of what the hymen means is so powerful. Not because of what is true about the hymen but what cultures have made true about a hymen.

Global Therapeutic Skincare Brand CeraVe Taps Top Dermatologists To Deepen Consumer Skin Care Education

Global Therapeutic Skincare Brand Reveals Body Moisturization Advice from Global Dermatologists as Part of New Campaign

June 25 2023

Nairobi, Kenya– Global skin care brand CeraVe has released survey findings revealing the top body skincare tips, according to 54 dermatologists from 23 different countries. With a need for global education on the indisputable benefits of body moisturization for everybody, CeraVe is tapping some of the country’s top dermatologists to deepen education amongst its Kenyan consumers.

The campaign’s goal is to educate consumers about the importance of a body skincare routine, which is often overlooked compared to facial skincare.

According to CeraVe’s survey, 90% of dermatologists surveyed said applying a moisturizer to the body daily is important to very important for overall skin health and 87% believe moisturizing the body is as important or more important as facial moisturizing. These findings emphasize that the importance of body moisturizing for achieving healthy skin is universally recognized among dermatologists. However, dermatologist recommendations are not always reflected in patient behavior. The survey found that more than one-third (35%) of dermatologists surveyed believe that their patients often neglect all body parts except the face. The most often neglected body parts, according to the dermatologists surveyed, were legs and feet (59%), followed by the neck (37%) and arms and elbows (35%).

“As a brand rooted in science, CeraVe works closely with dermatologists to develop efficacious products for all people, and we know how critical a proper skincare routine is for the entire body,” said Edouard Homasson, General Manager L’Oréal Dermatological Beauty.

Dermatologists from around the world also widely agreed that ingredients matter when it comes to body care and 87% surveyed said a top recommended ingredient for body care is ceramides. An essential ingredient for the skin barrier, ceramides are lipids that help keep the skin barrier intact, sealing moisture in and irritants out.

“Part of our mission in providing therapeutic skincare for all people is increasing access to skincare education, and by sharing dermatologists’ tips through this campaign, we hope to inspire people to take better care of their skin,” said CeraVe brand manager Mary Wangari.

In addition to ceramides, the survey also uncovered that the top skincare ingredients dermatologists recommend for body care also include SPF (68%) and hyaluronic acid (39%). The survey also found that the top three most important factors dermatologist tell their patients to consider in body care products include skin barrier restoration benefits (79%), hydrating ingredients (52%) and finding products that are gentle on sensitive skin (48%).

When it comes to dermatologist tips for healthy skin, there was one that rose to the top – moisturizing after a shower or when skin is damp. In fact, 96% of dermatologists surveyed agreed that the most important time to moisturize the body is after a shower to seal in moisture. Other common tips for moisturization after a shower included patting skin dry instead of rubbing, keeping showers short and using lukewarm water instead of hot to prevent irritation of the skin.

Research and Markets projects the global skin care products market size is expected to reach USD 196.20 billion by 2030. It is expected to expand at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2022 to 2030. The rising concerns over skin problems are driving the skincare products industry. The growing demand for concern-specific skincare products such as face creams, body lotions, shaving lotions and creams, and face sunscreens is likely to fuel the overall demand.

Air France-KLM Opens New Africa HQ in Nairobi, Firmly Commits to Strengthening Network and Service Delivery

· New office will enable Air France-KLM to better serve the growing demand for air travel in Africa as it currently operates flights to various destinations in the continent.

· The new office will provide customers with a wide range of services, including ticketing, sales, and customer support.

Nairobi, Kenya, June 23rd 2023 … Air France-KLM has announced the official opening of its new Africa headquarters in Nairobi, as part of its strategic plan to bolster its network and enhance services in the region. The new region now consists of seven markets, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Djibouti, South Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana, with the addition of South Africa, Nigeria, and Ghana as new markets.

Giving his keynote address, Senior Vice President of Long-Haul at Air France-KLM Zoran Jelkic said, “It made sense to bundle the strength of the different countries by creating a regional office in Nairobi which has become a centre of excellence to align our Air France & KLM policies and processes for this region and support the local teams for their specific requirements. For our customers, the new office has the benefit of a streamlined organization in terms of product offering, customer service and airport experience”.

The new office is situated in Merchant Square on Riverside Drive and will serve East and Southern Africa, as well as Nigeria and Ghana. The office will be headed by Mr. Marius van der Ham, who will serve as the Group’s General Manager (GM)

“This move is a testament to the Group’s unwavering commitment to the region and its drive to deliver unparalleled services to its valued customers,” he said, noting that, “Kenya has long been acknowledged as the primary business centre of East Africa, boasting a stable and dynamic business environment, excellent connectivity across the continent, and a wealth of talent to support our strategy”.

The new office will provide customers with a wide range of services, including ticketing, sales, and customer support. Customers will also be able to access information on the group’s products and services, including the Flying Blue loyalty program and the group’s partnerships with other airlines.

In addition, it will enable Air France-KLM to better serve the growing demand for air travel in the region. The group currently operates flights to various destinations in East Africa, including Nairobi and Dar es Salaam.

“Africa is a region with abundant resources, talent, and potential, and we are excited to be part of its growth story. Therefore, we see this new office as a crucial step towards firming our footprint in this region and regard it as a key priority within our network. For a start, we have expanded in East Africa by increasing our frequency, and secondly by opening Dar es Salaam for Air France in combination with Zanzibar. This is in addition to our already established network of KLM flights into Uganda and Rwanda.” Said, Marius van der Ham.

As part of its commitment to boosting the travel experience, Nairobi is connecting the region to the world via the Group’s two hubs in Paris Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol hence affording customers greater choice and flexibility when it comes to their travel needs.

MINISTRY UNVEILS OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES FOR CHILD PROTECTION IN TIMES OF EMERGENCIES

Clive Ayuko

22nd June 2023

The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection today afternoon at a Nairobi Hotel launched the operational guidelines for child protection during times of emergencies.

Speaking during the launch Secretary Directorate of Children services Mr. Shem Nyagutu Who read the speech on behalf of Cabinet Secretary madam Florence Bore Said; “our Children constitute more than half the population of Kenya making them most vulnerable during times of emergencies. Kenya has over the years experienced several emergencies and disasters such as the 2007/2008 post election violence, building collapses, floods, droughts which adversely affect children when such calamities occur”. He went on to add, ” the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Children (UNCRC) promotes the protection of children’s rights including their rights during emergencies and Kenya has ratified the UNCRC and the African Charter on the rights of the Child (ACRWC) which have been incorporated into article 53 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010.”

The guidelines will aim to address the specific needs of children during emergencies and provide a framework for coordinated and effective responses to protect children’s rights and well-being.

Kenya’s Most awaited Motor Show Event Is Back!!

Nairobi, 21st June 2023: After a four-year hiatus, The Kenya Motor Industry Association (KMIA) (Chairman: Mr Naresh Leekha and his abled team) are pleased to announce that NCBA – KMI Motor show 2023, will be held from Friday 15th September 2023 to Sunday 17th September 2023, at the Sarit Centre Expo Hall, Nairobi – Kenya. Apart from all active KMI members, we are looking for new partners and players in the automotive field and other industries that work closely with the principal association.

More than 20 automotive and ancillary brands have confirmed their participation and are excited to present their latest models and offering at the latest technology display covering the entire exhibition space and the parking lot at Sarit Centre, Nairobi. This year’s theme is “The Connection” where exhibitors can showcase the variety of experiences through the endless development of automotive technology, especially the introduction of the new way of travelling in the new era to everyone.

Participating Brands include, Kingsway Tyres, Silverstone, Inchcape, Subaru, Autoexpress, Crown Motors, Salvador, Tireworld, GB Motors, Crown Motors, Tata International, Simba Corporation, Sairaj Ltd, Scania, Mobikey, CFAO Motors, Caetano, to name a few. We are expecting to host over 10,000 attendees this year.

We are proud to announce that this year, we have a new Title Sponsor – with a sponsorship of Kes 8,000,000.00, NCBA Bank Kenya PLC, an entity that creates for the future and drives the country’s dreams by inspiring its people to achieve more with their money and thus their lives. Positioned amongst the largest institutions in East Africa and true market leader in Asset Finance, Corporate & Digital Banking.

Speaking during the partnership announcement event, the Group Managing Director, NCBA Group, John Gachora said that this partnership is a demonstration of the joint commitment by NCBA and KMI to supporting the growth and development of the automotive Industry in Kenya by leveraging the respective expertise, resources and networks to drive positive change and foster a thriving automotive sector.

“As leaders in asset financing in Kenya and East Africa, we share in the goal of creating sustainable transport in Kenya, by providing access to affordable financing options.
Financing has been a key driver for businesses to take up assets that will help them scale up their production. At NCBA our commitment as a trusted financial partner is to enable the growth of business by offering tailor made solutions to meet the unique needs of our customers” He added.

NCBA is the current market leader in asset finance, commanding a market share of 36%, assisting clients to acquire new and used movable assets at competitive interest and term rates.

Our target this year is to grow 15 – 20 percent in the number of visitors and excite the end user with creative & engaging campaigns that target all viable age groups and profiles. We are sure that The NCBA – KMI Motorshow this year will be another edition that expands the potential and greatness of organizing the event to promote the economy and develop the automotive business in Kenya. With a substantial amount of money invested in the show, it helps create job opportunities in construction, design areas and other related fields. The aim is to ensure a positive effect to all entrepreneurs in the automotive industry and other related businesses.

Throughout the past 10 years, KMIA as the organizer has consistently improved many new services to facilitate all exhibitors and visitors as well as provide new experiences especially by applying digital technology to disperse information, ticket distribution, data collection for one and all. We are confident that this year will prove to be more entertainment and involving with many interesting and engaging content activities in place.

As KMIA we believe that the automotive market is special with unique characteristics and although online marketing practices will definitely be there in the future, the Motor show still holds its uniqueness which is not just being a special modernized automotive show, it is an event that creates a positive vibe in the market. Consumers who visit the show have an opportunity to make decisions and have a variety of choices under one roof. This definitely helps stimulate the economy and sales in the industry both during and after the event.