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.

EABL Launches “Tujengane” National Consumer Promotion to Reward and Support Communities

12-Week Campaign Offers Exciting Prizes and Community Support Across Kenya

Nairobi, Kenya – Tuesday, 9th April, 2024 – East Africa Breweries Limited (EABL) has unveiled its latest initiative, the “Tujengane” National Consumer Promotion, aiming to foster a sense of unity and resilience within communities while rewarding and celebrating consumers across Kenya. The 12-week campaign, running from April to June 2024, promises exciting opportunities for consumers to enrich their lives.

At the launch event, Mark Ocitti, Managing Director of Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL), highlighted the strategic significance of the Tujengane campaign, emphasizing EABL’s commitment to driving engagement, loyalty, and growth while providing tangible value to consumers. “Tujengane embodies our collective spirit of resilience and togetherness as Kenyans,” Ocitti stated. “We are deeply committed to upholding the highest standards of quality and safety while celebrating our consumers’ trust in us.”

Positioned to resonate with consumers seeking value and connection amidst economic uncertainty, the Tujengane campaign invites consumers above 18 years to purchase participating EABL spirit brands, including Kenya Cane, Orijin, Triple Ace, Smirnoff, Kane Xtra, Chrome Gin, Chrome Vodka, Gilbey’s, and Captain Morgan. Each bottle contains a unique code for consumers to submit via SMS to 20405, entering them into a draw for a chance to win various prizes.

Joel Kamau, Group Commercial Director, emphasized the campaign’s focus on meaningful engagement and transformation. “Our prizes represent our commitment to providing tangible benefits to our consumers,” Kamau remarked. “By coming together, we can achieve more, and this campaign is a testament to that belief.”

Among the enticing prizes offered are four brand-new cars, Ksh 1 million for three lucky winners each, and 24 motorbikes. Half of the winnings will support community initiatives chosen by the winners, aligning with the ethos of Tujengane. Additional prizes include shopping vouchers, airtime, and cash prizes, ensuring widespread participation and excitement across Kenya.

Kennedy Mutula, Marketing Manager – Spirits, highlighted the campaign’s strategic partnerships, particularly with artists behind the Tujengane anthem. “These collaborations amplify the voices of our consumers, reflecting their values and aspirations authentically,” Mutula stated. The Tujengane anthem serves as a rallying cry for EABL brands, resonating deeply with consumers across Kenya.

Through the Tujengane campaign, EABL seeks to not only reward consumers but also support communities and promote a sense of unity and resilience across the nation. With its focus on meaningful engagement and transformation, Tujengane represents EABL’s ongoing commitment to making a positive impact on individuals and communities alike.

Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy (MKWC) Joins Prestigious Global Conservation Body, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)

MKWC’s Membership Signals a Significant Step Towards Global Collaboration in Wildlife Preservation

Nanyuki, April 8th, 2024 – In a momentous stride towards bolstering global conservation efforts, Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy (MKWC) proudly announces its membership in the esteemed International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This strategic alliance underscores MKWC’s unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation, particularly its dedicated efforts in safeguarding the critically endangered Mountain Bongo.

The announcement, made during a landmark event at the foot of the majestic Mount Kenya, marks a watershed moment in MKWC’s journey as it prepares to commemorate its 20th anniversary in 2024. Dr. Robert Aruho, Head of Mount Kenya Wildlife Conservancy, hailed the membership as a pivotal milestone, emphasizing its potential to amplify the impact of MKWC’s conservation initiatives on a global scale.

“Our work, particularly the Mountain Bongo project, has demonstrated the power of focused, science-driven conservation initiatives. This membership is not just a recognition of our past efforts but a gateway to further the impact of our work on a global scale,” remarked Dr. Aruho.

Through its affiliation with IUCN, MKWC aims to harness the organization’s vast network and expertise to implement more effective conservation strategies, engage in influential policy dialogues, and contribute to global conservation objectives. Nyawira Kariuki, Chair of the MKWC Board of Trustees, expressed her enthusiasm for the membership, highlighting its potential to elevate MKWC’s role in the international conservation dialogue.

“Through our membership to IUCN, we shall bring our unique insights and experiences from Kenya to the global conservation dialogue, contributing significantly to the international efforts in wildlife preservation. This is an important milestone for us as it bolsters our commitment to protecting endangered species and their ecosystems, and more specifically, the Mountain Bongo,” noted Nyawira.

Mr. Innocent Kabenga, IUCN Kenya Country Representative and Regional Head of Land Systems, underscored the significance of MKWC’s membership, emphasizing its potential to facilitate global collaboration and access to credible scientific knowledge in wildlife conservation.

Founded in 1948, IUCN serves as the global authority on the status of the natural world and the measures required to safeguard it. MKWC’s inclusion in this prestigious organization aligns with its broader agenda to amplify conservation efforts on a global scale, demonstrate alignment with the global conservation agenda, enhance collaborative endeavors, and gain access to a wide range of resources and expertise in wildlife protection.

As MKWC embarks on this new chapter of global collaboration, it remains steadfast in its mission to inspire present and future generations to preserve and protect nature’s beauty and wildlife. Through initiatives such as the Mountain Bongo breeding and rewilding program, the Animal Orphanage, and conservation education programs, MKWC continues to serve as a beacon of conservation in the heart of Kenya’s natural heritage.

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.

Kenya Re to grow expertise in new, emerging insurance risks like cyber security and climate change

Nairobi, Kenya 16th February 2024- Kenya Reinsurance Corporation (Kenya Re) is teaming up with local insurers to build a group of experts in new and growing risk areas such as cyber security and climate change.

The capacity building initiative will be rolled out through the recently established Kenya Re Academy and will enroll local professionals in diverse insurance risk areas.

“We are focusing on enhancing industry knowledge and building skill sets in line with the evolving nature of our business,” says the Kenya Re Group Managing Director Dr. Hillary Wachinga. He was speaking at an inaugural award ceremony attended by 31 insurance and brokers, hosted by Kenya Re.

The Corporation, he said, had launched the incentive program to encourage prompt premium payments by the insurers to help the national reinsurer meet its reinsurance obligations and safeguard its profitability.

“By helping us make more money, you give us the drive and the money to invest in research, development, and new ideas. You also help the local insurance and reinsurance industry grow and improve the national economy because we keep more money here,” he said.

Old Mutual Unveils Inaugural Financial Services Monitor to Guide the Enhancement of Financial Wellbeing in Kenya

·       The new Old Mutual Financial Services Monitor aims to empower individuals, businesses, and policymakers with holistic understanding for informed decision-making and greater financial wellbeing.

·       Key findings reveal that nearly 90% of Kenyans are not confident with their retirement savings and many are banking on their children for support 

NAIROBI, KENYA, FEBRUARY 7, 2024. The Old Mutual Group has today launched the first-ever Old Mutual Financial Services Monitor (OMFSM), a pioneering study that provides comprehensive insights into the Kenyan financial landscape. 

The OMFSM is designed to offer a holistic understanding of the broader financial behaviour of Kenyans, serving as a valuable resource for individuals, businesses, and policymakers. It aims to empower the community to make informed decisions and, in turn, foster greater financial wellbeing across the nation.

Among its key findings are that close to half of Kenyan consumers are considerably financially stressed with only 1 in 10  earning more now than they did prior to the pandemic. Additionally, the study showed that,  59% of Kenyans allocate their monthly income to living expenses, surpassing the Africa average of 51%. 

The report highlights Kenyans’ top financial priorities as income security, expense reduction, and debt repayment. The study revealed a notable prevalence of debt in the country,  where almost 7 in 10 consumers have a personal loan of some form, higher than that in the other markets surveyed across the continent (Ghana, Namibia, and South Africa).

Meanwhile, over 50% of Kenyans own micro businesses, and 22% are “polyjobbers,” a term that refers to those earning extra income alongside their regular jobs, showcasing a robust hustling spirit.

When it comes to retirement, currently only 26%  of respondents indicated that they are actively saving for retirement (which is lowest amongst the markets surveyed), and nearly 90% of Kenyans  lack confidence in having sufficient retirement savings. Instead, many  rely on the hope that their children will provide support in old age, with only a small percentage expecting government assistance.

Overall, amidst a recessionary environment, Kenyan economic confidence is at 16%, lower than South Africa (27%), Namibia (24%), and on par with Ghana (17%). 

“At Old Mutual, we believe that knowledge is the cornerstone of financial empowerment. The Old Mutual Financial Services Monitor will serve as a reliable annual indicator of Kenyan financial behaviour, enabling us to create customized financial wellness journeys for our customers as their needs evolve,” said Arthur Oginga, the Group CEO of Old Mutual East Africa.

“After analysing the consumer financial attitudes and behaviours of Kenyans, the necessity for comprehensive financial wellness support is evident, covering day-to-day expenses, debt and income management, and long-term savings. This is a role that Old Mutual already plays, but will ramp up to equip more families with the relevant tools to thrive.”

The Old Mutual Financial Services Monitor is available for download here.

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.

Kenya Airways Partners with Air Europa to Extend its reach into Europe.

Kenya Airways guests can fly on Air Europa routes, specifically those to Madrid, Palma de Mallorca, New York, and Miami

Air Europa passengers can fly via Amsterdam to Nairobi on flights operated by the Kenya Airways

Nairobi, 6th February 2024 – Kenya’s National Carrier, Kenya Airways (KQ) has signed a codeshare
agreement with Air Europa, the third-largest Spanish carrier, to extend its reach in Europe and the United
States of America. The new agreement will allow Air Europa passengers to fly to Nairobi from Amsterdam
as well as allow Kenya Airways guests to fly to Madrid, Palma de Mallorca, New York, and Miami.
The agreement has significantly expanded customers’ travel options by providing access and convenience
as guests will enjoy benefits such as the purchase of a single ticket, a single check-in, and connections with
minimum waiting times, among others. Kenya Airways will deploy its codes on four Air Europa routes,
specifically from Amsterdam to Madrid, Madrid to Palma de Mallorca, Madrid to New York, and Miami
while Air Europa will place their code on the Kenya Airways Amsterdam to Nairobi flight.
“We are excited about this partnership as it will provide our guests with more convenient travel options
to Europe and the United States. Air Europa has been our partner under the SkyTeam Alliance, and this
agreement allows us to collaborate more for the mutual benefit of our guests giving them more access
and connectivity.” Said Martin Gitonga, Kenya Airways Head of Network Planning and Alliances.
This agreement reflects the growth of Kenya Airways partnership strategy, which was largely restored in
2022.
“We are very pleased with the partnership we have signed with Kenya Airways. In addition to working
with one of the most established and prestigious airlines in Africa, this alliance allows us to significantly
expand our reach in a region with growing demand, which will certainly be of great benefit to our
customers,” said Estelle Leray, Air Europa’s Director of Alliances.
Kenya Airways takes pride in being at the forefront of connecting Africa to the World and the World to
Africa through its Nairobi hub and is committed to exploring strategic partnerships and agreements that
provide its guests with convenience, choice, and access to destinations across the world.