Sound Candid Talk

Buckle up, rally enthusiasts! The WRC Safari Rally is not just a race; it's a heart pounding adventure that tests the limits of man and machine. The World Rally Championship Safari Rally kicked off on Thursday in Nairobi. It is the third leg in the competition and the only one that passes through the African continent. After the launch the race cars headed down to Naivasha in Nakuru County where the action is to take place.   Now, the Safari Rally is renowned for its challenging terrain, and WRC cars must withstand a variety of impacts while maintaining high speeds to secure victory. Unlike standard race cars that race on smooth tracks, rally stages feature rough terrain with dips, large rocks, and jumps. As a result, rally cars require numerous modifications to endure the challenges of competition and prevent mechanical issues. As the engines roar and the tires grip the rugged terrain of Kenya's stunning landscapes, one question looms large: What technology keeps rally cars s...

President William Ruto officially launched the WRC Safari Rally 2024 at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Thursday, March 28.  While giving a speech before flagging off the race cars, Ruto said the prestigious motor racing event comes as a "truly special Easter holiday gift to millions of families to bond over a thrilling spectacle." "You really can't find a rally as tough, compelling, beautiful and rewarding as the one in Kenya," Ruto added. He confirmed that Kenya has made exceptional preparations on a global scale to offer high-quality racing venues and enjoyable activities during the shakedown that kicked off on Thursday and runs till Sunday, March 31.  The rally drivers then made their way to Moi Sports Centre, Kasarani Stadium for a Super Spectator stage before heading down to Service Park in Naivasha for the three-day event.  The rally has a lineup of 29 drivers and is being held at the Loldia Ranch in Ndulele Conservancy in Naivasha....

The government has introduced an innovative program aimed at encouraging and accelerating the acceptance of electric vehicles (EVs) nationwide by issuing unique license plates for these vehicles. Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has revealed plans to introduce distinct green-hued license plates for electric vehicles (EVs). The declaration was made during the unveiling of the e-mobility policy blueprint at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) on Wednesday, March 27.  These unique plates will be provided to drivers who own electric cars and motorcycles, signifying a significant advancement in Kenya's move towards eco-friendly transportation. President William Ruto arrives in an MG Commet EV at KICC during the Africa Climate Summit in September 2023.  The rollout of green license plates is a component of a wider effort outlined in the recently revealed e-mobility policy draft, designed to hasten Kenya's shift towards electric transportation. This poli...

Uganda-based milk processor Lato has purchased a 100% stake in Kenyan dairy firm Highland Creamers. The milk processing company from Uganda known for the Lato brand has been granted permission to acquire a Kenyan milk company. This approval enables them to address challenges that have been affecting their product supply and sales in Kenya.  According to a notice from the Comesa Competition Commission dated March 11, Maziwa, the holding company registered in Mauritius, has been authorized to purchase a 100 percent stake in Highland Creamers & Food Limited. This Kisii-based company, which launched its operations in 2015 and is responsible for the Farmily Milk brand, is now under Maziwa's ownership. "The CID (Committee Responsible for Initial Determinations) determined that the merger is not likely to substantially prevent or lessen competition in the Common Market or a substantial part of it, nor will it be contrary to the public interest," stated the competition. In Ug...

Veteran NTV journalist Rita Tinina was found dead in her house in Kileleshwa, Nairobi, on Sunday, March 17. This plunged the country, and especially the journalistic profession into mourning with many of her colleagues in the media fraternity pouring glowing tributes. They all eulogized her as a trailblazer in the media space whom they say will be dearly missed. Tinina was praised for her role as a mentor to younger journalists in the field, with many acknowledging her guidance as a key factor in their success.  Her family eulogized Tinina as a soft-spoken person who listened patiently to everyone. But who was Rita Tinina beyond our TV screens?  Ntanina Yiapan, popularly known as Rita Tinina was a highly respected Kenyan journalist with a wealth of experience spanning over a decade. Her professionalism and unique voice set her apart, making her a household name on television and winning her the adoration of many Kenyans. The pronouncement of her death sent shockwaves throughou...

In the ever-evolving landscape of business, one technological force stands out as a game-changer: Artificial Intelligence (AI). Imagine a world where tasks are automated, decisions are data-driven, and insights are gleaned in real time. Join us on a journey into the future as we explore how AI is poised to ease business operations and unlock unprecedented levels of efficiency and innovation. The Rise of Intelligent Automation Transforming Mundane Tasks into Strategic Advantages AI-powered automation is reshaping the way businesses operate. From routine data entry to complex analysis, intelligent algorithms are streamlining processes and freeing up valuable human resources. Dive into the realm of intelligent automation and discover how it's not just about replacing manual labor but about empowering teams to focus on strategic initiatives that drive growth and innovation. Data-Driven Decision Making Harnessing the Power of Big Data and AI Insights In the era of big data, the ability ...

In the high-stakes world of startups, where every decision can make or break a venture, the spotlight often shines on strategies, funding, and innovation. However, hidden beneath the surface lies a crucial element that can determine the trajectory of success: mental health. Join us as we explore why minding your mental health is just as vital as any business tactic in running a successful startup as a founder. The Stress Paradox Unraveling the Impact of Stress on Entrepreneurial Minds Entrepreneurship is synonymous with excitement and opportunity, but it also comes with its fair share of stressors. From financial pressures to the constant demand for innovation, the startup journey can be a rollercoaster of emotions. In this chapter, we delve into the paradox of stress, examining how it can fuel productivity while also posing significant risks to mental well-being. Discover strategies for managing stress effectively and harnessing its positive aspects. The Resilience Factor Bouncing Bac...

In the heart of every startup lies a pulse, a vibrant energy that fuels the journey from idea to execution. This pulse is the lifeblood of economies worldwide, driving innovation, disrupting industries, and shaping our future. But what exactly ignites this spark? What makes a startup not just survive but thrive in the competitive business landscape? Join us as we delve into the core of startup success, exploring the elements that set these ventures apart and make them truly special. The Visionary Blueprint The Idea That Dares to Dream Every groundbreaking venture begins with an idea—a vision that challenges the status quo. This is the inception point where creativity meets opportunity. But what distinguishes a successful startup is not just the novelty of the idea but its execution. The ability to transform a vision into a viable product or service is the first hallmark of a special startup. Engaging stories of such transformations inspire and motivate, serving as a beacon for future e...

The Vice Chancellor of the Technical University of Mombasa (TUM), Prof, Laila Abubakar, during the signing of a grant with the Principal Secretary of the State Department for Industry, Dr. Juma Mukhwana, to lead the SKIES Rapid Tech Skills Initiative in the Coast Region. The process of formalizing Kenya's innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem has begun, involving the selection of eight universities to train intermediary organizations including incubators, accelerators, and providers of rapid technology skills.  This initiative, undertaken by the Strengthening Kenya’s Innovation Ecosystem (SKIES) and financed by the World Bank, focuses on intermediaries that support and expedite the growth of enterprises involved in various value chains such as Leather; Livestock (Dairy and Pastoralism Economy); Garments and Textiles; Industrial Production (Building Materials and Pharmaceuticals); and Crops (Edible Oils, Rice, Tea, Coffee). The initiative is part of the Kenya Industry and Entrep...

KCB Group's net earnings declined by 8% to Sh37.5 billion in the fiscal year ending December 2023 compared to the same period in the previous year, which was attributed to rising expenses and depreciation of the shilling. This marks a decrease of Sh3.3 billion from the Sh40.8 billion recorded in 2022. Factors such as the inclusion of DRC's Trust Merchant Bank (TMB) subsidiary, voluntary retirement, and legal fees contributed to the increase in costs to Sh83.2 billion from Sh59.4 billion during the assessment period. "Provisions increased by 154.7% from the downgraded facilities in Kenya and additional provisions on foreign currency facilities from the depreciating Shilling against hard currencies," said the bank in a statement.  Nevertheless, the group's overall assets surged to Sh2.17 trillion, marking a 40% increase driven by the growth in customer deposits. Similarly, profits grew to Sh165.2 billion, supported by a rise in income from earning assets and non-fun...

An aerial view of the Olkaria I.  Chinese firm SEPCOIII Electric Power Construction Co. Ltd has won a multi-billion-shilling deal to rehabilitate the Olkaria Geothermal Power Plant in Naivasha.  Upon the restoration of the oldest geothermal power station in Kenya, the country's electricity production is poised to rise by 18 megawatts. Olkaria I was the first geothermal power plant to be built in Kenya with its first production unit installed in 1981.  According to Kengen, the Olkaria I power plant in Naivasha will see its geothermal production increase from 45MW to 63MW under a four-year revitalization plan. SEPCOIII Electric Power Construction Company and Toshiba Energy Systems and Solutions Corporation (Toshiba ESS) have been awarded contracts to provide steam turbines and generators for the plant's three units. Kengen's modernization project, slated for completion by December 2026, aims to achieve a shift to entirely green energy by 2030, as stated by the firm's mana...

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) gathered Sh1.37 trillion in taxes over the eight months concluding in February, presenting a significant challenge of raising an average of Sh280 billion per month over the following four months to reach its Sh2.5 trillion goal for the ongoing fiscal year ending in June.  Official figures indicate that from July 2023 to February 2024, tax collections by the KRA amounted to only 55 percent of the revised annual target of Sh2.49 trillion, which was less than half (49 percent) of the original revenue target of Sh2.787 trillion set in the previous year's budget unveiled in June.  Throughout the initial eight months of the 2023/24 financial year, the KRA collected taxes averaging Sh171.7 billion monthly, resulting in shortfalls averaging Sh36.2 billion per month based on the annual target of Sh2.49 trillion for the fiscal year.  These shortfalls have significantly reduced the likelihood of the KRA meeting the ambitious revenue targets set by t...

President William Ruto Tuesday assented to the Affordable Housing Act 2023.  The president signed the bill into law after it was passed in both houses of parliament. The law re-introduces a mandatory 1.5% levy on income months after the court declared the deductions illegal, throwing the proponents of the bill back to the drawing board.  The Head of State assented to the bill at an event held at State House with top Kenya Kwanza leadership in attendance.  The new law paves way for a deduction of 1.5pc from all employees' gross monthly pay with a similar amount being matched by their employers. The levy is intended to pay for the construction of affordable housing for poorer Kenyans.  President William Ruto signs the Affordable Housing Bill into law during the event at State House. President William Ruto has addressed critics of his policies, affirming that  mama mbogas  (small-scale vegetable vendors) and boda boda operators remain integral to his plans....