TradeMark Africa Launches Third Safe Trade Zone Market in Moyale

Empowering Women Traders Amidst Cross-Border Challenges


Moyale, Ethiopia, 27th April 2024: Small-scale women traders play a crucial role in economic growth and regional integration, yet they face numerous challenges, especially in cross-border trade within regions like the Horn of Africa and East Africa. Moyale Border exemplifies these hurdles, from harsh environmental conditions to lengthy clearance procedures and high transaction costs. Additionally, the lack of secure trading spaces exposes women to risks such as theft and harassment, further hindering their economic activities.



In response, TradeMark Africa (TMA) with funding from Irish Aid and EU-IGAD Covid-19 Response programme and in partnership with local administration in Moyale and the Government of Ethiopia, has today launched a Safe Trade Zone (STZ)facility in Moyale. This is the third such market that TMA has constructed in the region with the others located in Tog Wajaale – one Ethiopia side and the other Somaliland side.



The Moyale Safe Trade Zone market will accommodate 207 women traders, providing them with a secure and conducive environment to conduct business. The initiative marks a significant step in addressing structural barriers hindering women traders’ participation in cross-border trade, in Ethiopia and Kenya.



The permanent structure is equipped with sanitation facilities, market stalls, water systems, prayer rooms, breastfeeding rooms, and power rooms. This provision of social safety systems, such as breastfeeding rooms, alleviates concerns for young female traders, allowing them to focus on business without worrying about childcare.



Mr. Getachew Deressa, Director from Oromia Trade office said: ‘’TMA with the construction of this facility will contribute for employment and income generation for the women traders in Moyale. Moreover, we encourage this type of international partners to invest on initiatives that solve the economic challenges of our people. We believe TMA’s support will continue in other parts of the region.” 



Whilst speaking prior to the commissioning of the facility, Mr. Ewnetu Taye, Ethiopia Country Director, TMA said: “TradeMark Africa is committed to the importance of promoting inclusive trade practices in nurturing economic development and empowering marginalised communities. Our agenda is to cultivate opportunities for all traders, particularly women, to thrive within the cross-border trade environment. Through the establishment of safe trade zone markets, such as those we have initiated in Moyale, we not only facilitate trade but also champion gender equality and empowerment. This enables women traders to enhance their economic standing. TMA also constructed similar facility in Tog Wajaale Ethiopia and Somaliland sides.”



In addition to providing a trading space, the market will serve as a hub for training targeted women traders and facilitate business integration among border communities. TMA, in collaboration with local administrative officials, will provide business skills, entrepreneurship training, and hygiene and sanitation training for food safety. These efforts aim to empower women traders to scale their businesses successfully and manage the market effectively.



Responding to the COVID-19 pandemic severe impact on women cross border traders, TMA initiated Safe Trade Zones. They are designed as secure trading spaces compliant with health protocols. Strategically located at key borders such as Kenya’s Busia, South Sudan’s Nimule, and Ethiopia and Somaliland’s Tog Wajaale, these zones have become pivotal in the economic recovery efforts for women engaged in cross-border trade. Research conducted by TMEA and UNECA revealed that COVID-19 led to businesses losses exceeding 90% for women traders, highlighting the need for targeted support to aid their recovery.

Kenya ICT Week and KUZA Awards Unite to Champion Innovation and Sustainability in Digital Sector

Nairobi, Kenya 17th April 2024

In a strategic alignment aimed at elevating the digital landscape in Kenya, the forthcoming 7th edition of the KUZA Awards will merge with the prestigious Kenya ICT Week. This amalgamation, announced amidst anticipation within the tech community, signifies a unified effort to spotlight innovation and sustainability in the country’s digital sphere. Sc

Scheduled at the tail end of  Kenya ICT Week, the KUZA Awards will adopt the theme of “Innovation for a Sustainable Digital Future.” This thematic focus underscores the pressing need to harness technological advancements while ensuring long-term environmental and social sustainability.

The fusion brings together an impressive array of award categories, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the digital sector. From acknowledging excellence in Broadcast Regulatory Compliance and Subscription Management Services to honoring pioneers in Cybersecurity and Green ICT, the awards encompass critical facets of the industry’s evolution.During the launch, the Corporate Director at the Communications Authority M Christopher Wambua underscored the significance of this collaborative initiative. By integrating the Kenya ICT Week with the esteemed KUZA Awards, the event aims to amplify the spotlight on Kenya’s technological achievements while fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among industry stakeholders.

Of notable mention are specialized recognition categories such as the Lifetime Achievement Award, designed to honor individuals whose contributions have left an indelible mark on the tech landscape. Additionally, the awards will spotlight initiatives dedicated to Child Online Protection and Women in Tech, underscoring the importance of inclusivity and diversity in driving innovation forward.As the digital arena continues to evolve, initiatives like the amalgamation of the Kenya ICT Week and the KUZA Awards serve as catalysts for progress. Through this unified platform, stakeholders are poised to celebrate achievements, share insights, and chart a course towards a future characterized by innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity.

Kenya National Drama and Film Festival in Embu Promotes Tax Literacy and Creativity

KNDFF Collaborates with KRA to Educate Youth on Tax Compliance Through Creative Arts

Embu, Kenya 15th April 2024 The Kenya National Drama and Film Festival (KNDFF) has commenced in Embu with a focus on showcasing talents from schools nationwide, including innovative presentations on tax literacy. This historic event marks the first time the festival is hosted in Embu County, bringing together participants from all 47 counties in the country.

Celebrating its 62nd Edition, this year’s festival revolves around the theme “Unlocking Opportunities for Socio-Economic Transformation Through Drama and Film,” serving as both a celebration of creativity and a platform for addressing critical socio-economic issues.

In a groundbreaking collaboration, the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has partnered with the KNDFF Steering Committee to promote tax literacy among students and the public through creative arts. Recognizing tax literacy as pivotal for national development, the partnership aims to enlighten the public on the importance of tax compliance and its role in supporting the nation’s growth.

Grace Wandera, Deputy Commissioner Marketing and Communication at Kenya Revenue Authority, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “Tax literacy is vital for our nation’s progress, and we are thrilled to work with KNDFF to educate and empower the youth and the public through creative arts.”

Throughout the festival, attendees will experience presentations and performances designed to equip them with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the tax landscape effectively. This initiative underscores the significance of every citizen’s contribution to national development through tax compliance.

A representative from KNDFF highlighted the festival’s role as a platform for showcasing creativity, social innovation, and the potential of children and youth. They emphasized its importance in promoting the transformative impact of the arts on learners’ minds across all educational levels.

Beyond artistic expression, the festival serves as a forum for discussions on pressing societal issues, reflecting Kenya’s commitment to leveraging the arts for positive change and development.

As the festival unfolds in Embu, it promises to not only entertain but also educate and inspire audiences, fostering a culture of tax compliance and creative expression among Kenya’s youth and beyond.

Stanbic Bank Secures KES 4.3 Billion Term Debt Facility for National Cement Company Ltd’s Expansion

Subheading: Landmark Transaction Aims to Boost Production Capacity and Infrastructure Development

Nairobi, 11th April 2024: Stanbic Bank Kenya proudly announces the successful financial close of a groundbreaking deal with National Cement Company Ltd (NCCL), marking the acquisition of a KES 4.3 billion term debt facility. This strategic partnership is set to partially refinance NCCL’s foreign currency liabilities incurred during its expansive capital expenditure phase.

Driven by a mutual vision to enhance production capacity and contribute to infrastructure development in Kenya and East Africa, the collaboration between Stanbic Bank and NCCL underscores the bank’s dedication to supporting key industries and fostering sustainable economic growth across the region.

Mphokolo Makara, Executive, Head of Energy and Infrastructure East Africa at Stanbic Bank, expressed, “Our purpose at Stanbic Bank is to propel Kenya’s growth through partnerships with industry leaders like National Cement. NCCL’s local and regional market insights position them as catalysts for sustainable growth through domestic employment and manufacturing capacity.”

Stanbic Bank provided NCCL with a comprehensive financial solution, including local currency term debt and customized foreign currency forwards, as a Senior Lender. This tailored approach effectively managed the client’s foreign currency exposure relative to domestic operations, mitigating challenges posed by volatile FX market dynamics.

Alakh Kohli, Executive, Head of Corporate and Investment Banking at Stanbic Bank Kenya and South Sudan, stated, “This transaction highlights our commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the expansion endeavors of leading corporates in Kenya. We are honored to facilitate this milestone for NCCL and eagerly anticipate continued collaboration in driving economic progress.”

The KES 4.3 billion term debt facility empowers NCCL to sustainably deliver high-quality construction inputs at competitive prices, furthering economic and infrastructure development initiatives. As a pivotal supplier across East Africa, NCCL’s operations play an indispensable role in propelling growth and prosperity throughout the region.

Established in 2008, National Cement Company Ltd stands as East Africa’s foremost integrated clinker and cement manufacturer, playing a vital role in Kenya’s vibrant construction industry.

The Republic of the Congo Solidifies Full Membership in Organisation of Southern Cooperation

Ambassador Daniel Owassa Deposits Instrument of Acceptance, Signifying Completion of Membership Process

Addis Ababa, 10 April 2024 – The Republic of the Congo has reaffirmed its commitment to regional cooperation and development by depositing the Instrument of Acceptance to the Organisation of Southern Cooperation (OSC). H.E. Daniel Owassa, Ambassador of the Republic of the Congo to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union, formally presented the Instrument of Acceptance to Secretary-General H.E. Manssour Bin Mussallam at a ceremony held yesterday at the OSC Headquarters in Addis Ababa.

As a founding member of the OSC, the Republic of the Congo’s depositing of the Instrument of Acceptance signifies the completion of the full membership process, further strengthening the organisation’s representation and influence in the Global South.

H.E. Bin Mussallam hailed the occasion as the beginning of a new chapter for the Republic of the Congo within the OSC. He emphasized the importance of collective action and solidarity among member states in shaping a development agenda grounded in multilateralism and self-determination.

“This is a historic day for the Organisation as a Secretariat and a collective of sovereign states of the South, and a historic day for the Republic of the Congo,” stated H.E. Bin Mussallam. He praised the Republic of the Congo for its visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to the OSC’s principles since its founding.

Ambassador Daniel Owassa expressed his satisfaction at completing the membership process, affirming his country’s readiness to fully engage and contribute to the OSC’s objectives. The depositing of the Instrument of Acceptance paves the way for the Republic of the Congo to assume its rightful place among the OSC’s full member states, enabling it to actively participate in shaping the organisation’s future trajectory.

With the Republic of the Congo’s formal acceptance into the OSC, the organisation welcomes a valued partner dedicated to promoting cooperation, solidarity, and sustainable development across the Global South. As the OSC continues to advance its mission, the Republic of the Congo’s membership will undoubtedly enrich the collective efforts aimed at addressing the region’s socio-economic challenges and fostering inclusive growth for all member states.

Kenya Airways Expands Horizons with New Route to Maputo, Mozambique

KQ’s Latest Expansion Paves the Way for Enhanced Connectivity and Travel Experiences

Nairobi, 8th April 2024 – Kenya Airways (KQ) is embarking on a new chapter of growth and connectivity as it announces the launch of its latest route, connecting Nairobi directly to the bustling city of Maputo, Mozambique. Set to take flight from 14th June 2024, this strategic expansion underscores KQ’s unwavering commitment to bridging East and Southern Africa while enriching travel experiences across the continent.

Julius Thairu, Chief Commercial and Customer Officer at Kenya Airways, expressed excitement about the new venture, stating, “The demand for air travel is soaring, and we’re determined to meet it by expanding our reach and fostering connections between Africa’s rich cultures and thriving economies. The addition of Maputo to our network strengthens ties between Kenya and Mozambique, opening doors for increased trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.”

Maputo, renowned as a major trade hub in Southern Africa, beckons visitors with its vibrant tapestry of history and culture. From its Portuguese colonial architecture to its bustling markets and burgeoning art scene, the city offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and contemporary allure. Whether seeking relaxation on pristine beaches or immersion in local arts and cuisine, Maputo promises an unforgettable experience for travelers.

Commencing 14th June, Kenya Airways will operate three weekly flights to Maputo, providing travelers with convenient access to this dynamic city. With flights scheduled for Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, passengers can look forward to flexible travel options that cater to their itineraries.

The schedule for the Nairobi-Maputo route is as follows:

• Nairobi to Maputo: Flight KQ740 departing at 0950hrs (local time) and arriving at 1300hrs (local time) on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.
• Maputo to Nairobi: Flight KQ741 departing at 1350hrs (local time) and arriving at 1845hrs (local time) on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

This expansion aligns with Kenya Airways’ broader network strategy for FY2024, which includes increased frequencies to popular destinations such as New York, Paris, Lagos, Accra, and Freetown. Moreover, the new route not only serves travelers originating in Kenya but also serves as a convenient connecting point for passengers from other African cities via Nairobi, further enhancing regional connectivity.

With a steadfast commitment to “propelling Africa’s growth,” Kenya Airways continues to strengthen connections across the continent, fostering economic opportunities and enriching travel experiences for all. As the airline expands its footprint, it remains dedicated to delivering world-class service and connectivity, ensuring seamless journeys for passengers across Africa and beyond.

USE DATA TO PROTECT, CONSERVE AND GROW BIODIVERSITY NUMBERS AFRICA URGED

By Clive Ayuko

Nairobi, Kenya 22nd March 2024

As the world continues to grapple with the negative effects of climate change occassioned to rises in global temperatures, the need to conserve biodiversity habits to ensure rise in biodiversity numbers has taken centre stage in the quest geared at keeping rising global temperatures rises at bay.

According to a 2022 report by the World Wildlife Fund christened the living  Planet Report, wildlife populations have declined by an average of 69% since the years 1970. An alarming statistic considering the importance derived from having such varied specie numbers. Consider for instance the importance of bees in ensuring cross pollination among plants and ensuring survival various plants species, or the importance of the now extinct dodo in ensuring the germination of certain tree species or the importance of marine environments fish and marine life in ensuring survival of the coral reefs which absorb carbon dioxide from the environment, the need to protect biodiversity is of utmost importance for the survival of humanity.
One way of ensuring  such conservation has been through initiatives involving management of conserved and protected areas through use of geospatial data.

Protected areas are managed for biodiversity conservation by providing a habitat and protection from hunting for threatened and endangered species. And may take various forms to include through social norms as sacred sites, military protected area or legally sanctioned protected area under international conventions or local laws.

It is in line with this goal that the Regional Centre for Mapping Resources for Development in Conjunction with the Biopama Regional Resource Hub For Eastern and South Africa in Conjunction with the implementing partners to include the European Union, European Commission and the IUCN organized a 5 day training workshop from 18th March to 22 March 2024  dubbed the Biopama Regional Resource Hub on Protected and Conserved Areas Data workshop at the Regional Centre for Mapping Resources for Development RCMRD in Kasarani Nairobi to train various stakeholders on the use of data in the management of protected and conserved areas
Speaking during the closing ceremony Cabinet Secretary heading the Ministry of Environment Ms Soipan Tuya
adding her voice in raising concern said;”Our protected areas, including forests and biodiversity, are currently under threat due to a lack of quality data to inform decisions. She continued to add;  “The center will provide valuable insights by providing vital mapped data on natural resources to informed policy decisions and climate-responsive actions.”

TWCC and TradeMark Africa Unite to Empower Women in Trade at Zanzibar Conference

ZANZIBAR, March 12, 2024: The Tanzania Women Chamber of Commerce (TWCC) and TradeMark Africa (TMA) have united more than 350 women in Zanzibar, for the Economic Empowerment of Women Conference. This significant convention coincided with the global celebration of International Women’s Day, a testament to the commitment to advancing women’s economic participation.



Under the theme “Invest in Women for Sustainable Development,” the conference spearheaded by TWCC and TMA aims to catalyse economic empowerment by providing women with invaluable insights into trade opportunities, fostering knowledge exchange, celebrating women leaders in business, and nurturing emerging talents through mentoring programmes.



The guest of honour, Hon. Hemed Suleiman Abdulla, Second Vice President of Zanzibar underscored the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment. “Zanzibar is dedicated to ensuring women’s full participation in economic activities,” he affirmed, citing initiatives such as the establishment of the Institute for Economic Empowerment and the formulation of the Blue Economy Policy.

Ms. Mwajuma Hamza, CEO of TWCC, emphasised the collaborative effort, stating, “In partnership with TradeMark Africa and other stakeholders, this conference serves as a critical platform to equip women with the tools and networks necessary to thrive in trade and commerce.”



TradeMark Africa, a champion of Aid-for-Trade initiatives since 2010, reaffirmed its commitment to women’s economic empowerment with a substantial investment of over $3 million in Tanzania over the past seven years. Mr. Elibariki Shammy, Country Director of TMA, announced an additional investment of $1.5 million to support 12,000 women entrepreneurs across Zanzibar and the mainland.

“TradeMark Africa’s engagement extends beyond financial support,” Mr. Shammy highlighted. “We are actively collaborating with government bodies and institutions to enhance trade infrastructure, streamline regulatory processes, and foster a conducive business environment for women.”



TWCC National Chairperson, Ms. Mercy Sila, commended the government’s support and reiterated TWCC’s mission to empower women across Tanzania. “Through collaborative efforts with the government and other stakeholders, TWCC has transformed the lives of thousands of women, enabling them to succeed in business and contribute to national development,” she remarked.



In closing, Ms. Tatu Seleiman, TWCC Zanzibar Chairperson, emphasised the transformative potential of the Blue Economy in empowering women and driving inclusive growth.

The Economic Empowerment of Women Conference underscores a collective commitment to advancing gender equality and economic prosperity in Tanzania, setting the stage for women to thrive in trade and commerce.

LG Donates Kshs6 Million to Charitable Initiatives through Successful ‘Smile With LG’ Campaign

·         The beneficiaries are children’s home, a literacy initiative supporting the establishment of school libraries and a primary school in an underserved community

NAIROBI, KENYA, February 07, 2024… LG Electronics East Africa has today announced the successful culmination of its ‘Smile with LG’ campaign’ which raised a total of Kshs6 million to benefit community projects. The campaign, which ran from November to December 2023, showcased LG’s commitment to making a positive impact on society.

The ‘Smile with LG’ initiative encouraged LG customers to vote for a charitable cause upon purchasing eligible LG home appliances. Voting took place on the LG.Com website through the dedicated ‘Smile with LG’ platform, with each vote contributing Kshs5,000 towards the total donation. This innovative approach both engaged LG customers and empowered them to play an active role in supporting worthy causes.

LG partnered with the Rotary Club of Nairobi Madaraka and the Rotaract Club of the University of Nairobi (UoN) Afya to ensure that the funds raised were channeled towards impactful projects addressing critical community needs. This collaborative effort reinforced LG’s dedication to corporate social responsibility and highlights the brand’s commitment to creating a positive and lasting impact in the East African region.

Speaking about the successful campaign, LG’s Managing Director for East Africa, Dongwon Lee, expressed gratitude to the LG community for their enthusiastic participation.

“We are humbled to witness the generosity and compassion of our customers who actively participated in the ‘Smile with LG’ campaign. Together with our esteemed partners, the Rotary Club of Nairobi Madaraka and the Rotaract Club of UoN Afya, we are honored to hand over the proceeds of the campaign to initiatives that make a meaningful difference in our communities,” he said.

Rotary Club of Nairobi Madaraka President, Rotarian Joel Wandurwa, expressed his gratitude for the donation saying: “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to LG Electronics East Africa and all the LG customers who took part in the ‘Smile with LG’ campaign. Your generosity has enabled us to further our mission in addressing critical community needs. Together, we are making a positive impact and creating a brighter future for those in need. Thank you for embracing the spirit of giving and for being catalysts for positive change.”

The funds will be split amongst the following three beneficiary institutions: Gathiga Childrent’s Hope Home (Kshs3,150,000); The Maktaba Project (Kshs582,000), and Oldorko Mosiro Primary School (Kshs2,268,000).

Based in Kenya’s Kiambu County Gathiga Children’s Hope Home is a Non-Profit Organization in Kenya, dedicated to help street children who are orphaned, abandoned, abused or those forced out of their homes due to the inability of their families to cater for their basic needs. 

TheMaktaba Project is a literacy initiative by two Rotary Clubs: Dundas Valley Sunrise and Nairobi Madaraka. The initiative aims to equip needy schools with functioning libraries.

Meanwhile Oldorko Mosiro Primary School provides sanctuary for children escaping early marriages, female genital mutilation, forced labor and parental cruelty.

Novozymes Achieves Milestone Merger with Chr. Hansen, Strengthening Biotechnology Leadership in East Africa and Around the World

The two biotechnology companies have completed their merger to become Novonesis

Novonesis will employ 10,000 people with several based at its East Africa office in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi

NAIROBI, KENYA, February 7, 2024 … Danish biotechnology firm Novozymes, which expanded its East Africa presence in 2019 with the opening of its Nairobi office, has successfully concluded its merger with Chr. Hansen. 

This is the biggest announcement for Novozymes since its entry in Kenya since June 2019 to provide market-leading biological solutions including industrial enzymes and microorganisms for a broad range of industries like household care, brewing, baking and bio agriculture.

One of its solutions makes bread stay fresh for longer with a considerable impact on food waste.  Chr. Hansen, on the other hand, has been operational since 1874 and supplies bacteria cultures, probiotics, enzymes and human milk oligosaccharides, components that Novozymes requires for its production.

The merged entity, known as Novonesis, finalized the process after receiving all necessary regulatory approvals and completing registrations, including the final step with the Danish Business Authority. With a global workforce of 10,000, including a presence in Kenya, Novonesis now boasts expertise across 30 diverse industries. The combined group will operate a global network of R&D and application centers as well as manufacturing sites. 

Among other priorities, Novonesis aims to play a leading role in generating climate-friendly food products through solutions that replace chemicals in agriculture to support healthier and more sustainable diets, lower raw material usage, and reduce CO₂emissions.

“We have successfully combined Novozymes and Chr. Hansen and today we come together as one leading global biosolutions partner. Novonesis combines our joint strengths and the wonders of biology, and we are set to lead a new era of biosolutions. We will innovate and develop transformative biosolutions that improve the way we all produce, consume and live. And we have gathered the brightest minds and together with my 10,000 colleagues, we will unlock the limitless potential of biosolutions,” said Noveniss President and CEO, Ester Baiget. 

Cees de Jong, Chairman of Novonesis, added: “I am pleased to witness the realization of the Novozymes and Chr. Hansen combination, creating a true global biosolutions leader. We will continue to create powerful biosolutions for our customers and partners based on our more than 100 years of innovation and application expertise. Together, we will serve as a growth partner to our customers; a value creator to our shareholders; and a company that has a significant, positive impact on society and the planet. Novonesis builds on a shared heritage of sustainability leadership and will keep leading the way.”

With a broad biological toolbox and a diversified portfolio in attractive markets, Novonesis is now actively supporting businesses worldwide in addressing both commercial requirements and environmental sustainability. The combined group will have annual revenues of approximately EUR 3.7 billion^[1] with solid profitability and cash generation. Half of the portfolio will focus on enabling healthier lives and producing better foods. The other half will address reducing chemical use and targeting climate neutral practices.