KBC Channel 1

Author: Beth Nyaga

  • DPP cracks down on transnational drug trafficking syndicate

    DPP cracks down on transnational drug trafficking syndicate

    The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has achieved a significant victory in the fight against drug trafficking with the conviction of Joyce Akinyi and two accomplices in a case prosecuted at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) courts.

    The prosecution team, led by Norah Achieng, Annette Wangia, and Faith Mwila, presented compelling evidence that Akinyi, along with her co-accused, Paulin Kalala, a Congolese national, and Peres Ochieng, were key figures in a meticulously planned transnational drug trafficking operation.

    Akinyi was also found guilty of possessing a passport without providing a reasonable explanation, adding to the severity of her offences.

    The court entered judgment in the absence of Peres Ochieng, who absconded during the trial after being placed on her defence.

    Sentencing for the convicted individuals is set for December 10, 2024, marking the next step in delivering justice in this case.

  • Rurii school’s bio-latrines pave the way for Kabatini Aquifer conservation

    Rurii school’s bio-latrines pave the way for Kabatini Aquifer conservation

    Rurii Primary School in Nakuru County is charting a new path in environmental sustainability through an innovative initiative that seamlessly integrates sanitation, energy efficiency, and water conservation.

    At the heart of this transformation are bio-latrines that convert human waste into biogas for cooking. This solution not only curbs reliance on firewood but also safeguards the Kabatini Aquifer, a crucial water source for Nakuru City.

    This groundbreaking initiative forms part of a larger mission to promote sustainable water resource management in a region where 90 per cent of the water supply is derived from underground sources, particularly the Kabatini Aquifer.

    Backed by the Catchment to Tap (C2T) Project Consortium comprising WWF-Kenya, Egerton University, and the Kenya Water and Sanitation Civil Society Network (KEWASNET) and funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the project exemplifies the impact of collective action in conservation.

    Bio-latrines at Rurii Primary School in Nakuru County

    The Kabatini Aquifer, like many underground water sources, faces growing threats from contamination and over-extraction.

    By installing biodigesters at the school, these risks are mitigated while simultaneously offering clean, renewable energy. Vitens Evides International (VEI), a C2T partner, has spearheaded the construction of these eco-friendly toilet blocks, providing an affordable and sustainable waste management solution for the community.

    Further complementing these efforts, Nakuru Water and Sanitation Services Company Ltd (NAWASSCO) has received a Ksh 13 million grant under the C2T project. This funding aims to protect critical water sources, including two springs, and advance the gazettement of the aquifer to ensure its long-term sustainability.

    Beyond protecting the aquifer, Nakuru is embracing the “sponge city” concept, a forward-thinking approach designed to capture and store rainwater for future use.

    This strategy not only mitigates flooding risks but also ensures a reliable water supply during dry spells, presenting a cost-effective and sustainable solution.

    Aligned with these water conservation strategies, sustainable land-use practices such as terracing, contour farming, and transitioning from subsistence farming to agribusiness are being promoted. These measures aim to reduce soil erosion, improve water retention, and enhance agricultural productivity, ultimately contributing to poverty alleviation and food security in the region.

    During a media workshop organized by WWF-Kenya and its partners, Professor Engineer Japheth Onyando from Egerton University underscored the urgent need for integrated groundwater management.

    He called for the collective stewardship of water recharge areas and water towers while emphasizing the importance of regulatory frameworks to address over-extraction risks, particularly through proper borehole spacing.

    Similarly, Dr. William Ojwang, WWF-Kenya’s Freshwater Scientist, highlighted the pressing need for effective water management in Kenya, a water-scarce nation.

    He emphasized the importance of protecting catchment areas as a sustainable solution to ensure long-term water security amid increasing population and economic pressures.

    Dr. William Ojwang, WWF-Kenya’s Freshwater Scientist,

    KEWASNET CEO Malesi Shivaji further detailed critical conservation measures for the Kabatini Aquifer.

    These include removing invasive tree species, re-vegetating sub-catchments with indigenous trees, promoting alternative livelihoods to reduce farming within the aquifer area, and installing rainwater harvesting systems to reduce dependence on groundwater.

    He also emphasized restricting harmful practices such as charcoal burning and grazing, which degrade the ecosystem.

    In addition, Shivaji noted that efforts to monitor and manage the aquifer are also underway, including capacity-building programs, groundwater and rainfall monitoring, water quality assessments, and the creation of a comprehensive database to track conservation progress.

    “These actions underscore a commitment to ensuring the aquifer’s sustainable use and protection,” he noted.

    KEWASNET CEO Malesi Shivaji

    The media workshop and field visit, supported by the C2T technical team, sought to amplify awareness of the importance of safeguarding underground water sources in urban areas like Nakuru.

    The initiatives in Nakuru exemplify the transformative potential of collaborative and innovative approaches to natural resource management.

    From bio-latrines and sponge city strategies to sustainable farming and integrated groundwater management, Nakuru is paving the way for addressing complex energy, water, and agricultural challenges while conserving essential resources.

    Through its unwavering commitment to sustainability and partnerships, the region is crafting a future where communities, businesses, and the environment thrive together in harmony.

  • United for Nature: IFAW, TNC, WWF-Kenya forge game-changing conservation pact

    United for Nature: IFAW, TNC, WWF-Kenya forge game-changing conservation pact

    The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), The Nature Conservancy (TNC), and the World Wide Fund for Nature – Kenya (WWF-Kenya) have launched a transformative five-year partnership to amplify conservation efforts for the benefit of both people and nature.

    Formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in Nairobi, the partnership leverages the strengths of the three organizations to design and implement impactful projects aimed at improving community livelihoods, ensuring habitat connectivity, and fostering sustainable development.

    This collaboration brings together decades of expertise to accelerate biodiversity conservation and socio-economic advancements while addressing critical challenges such as habitat fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict, and the over-exploitation of natural resources.

    Central to the partnership is a commitment to place communities at the heart of conservation, prioritizing their inclusion, capacity building, and empowerment.

    Through active engagement with communities, the initiative seeks to promote ownership of conservation projects, incorporate indigenous knowledge, and establish sustainable financing mechanisms that benefit both ecosystems and local populations.

    Speaking at the signing ceremony, IFAW’s Africa Director, James Isiche, stressed the urgent need to tackle biodiversity loss and climate change, which are increasingly affecting communities across Kenya.

    He highlighted how population growth is fragmenting wildlife habitats, exacerbating human-wildlife conflicts, and creating the need for innovative solutions, sustainable resource management, and strong partnerships to protect Kenya’s iconic landscapes and wildlife.

    WWF-Kenya CEO Mohamed Awer emphasized the inextricable link between Kenya’s environment and its economic and social health.

    “Here in Kenya, we recognize that our national development is tied to the health of our environment. If our ecosystems collapse, so will our economy and society,” he said.

    Awer noted that partnerships like this are essential for driving meaningful conservation actions aligned with sustainable development, calling for transformative collaborations and climate action investments to address pressing environmental challenges.

    Echoing this sentiment, Munira Anyonge Bashir, TNC Kenya’s Government Relations and Policy Director, underscored the importance of community-driven conservation.

    She emphasized the need for community involvement in combating over-exploitation, reducing human-wildlife conflicts, and securing sustainable financing for conservation efforts.

    The MOU reflects the shared vision of IFAW, TNC, and WWF-Kenya to create a cohesive approach to conservation.

    By pooling resources and expertise, the partnership aims to develop innovative, large-scale solutions that balance the needs of people and wildlife.

    Over the next five years, this consortium will work collaboratively to safeguard Kenya’s biodiversity, build climate resilience, and secure sustainable livelihoods for local communities.

    This partnership exemplifies the power of collective action, underscoring the potential of working together to achieve greater conservation impact and to ensure a future where people and nature coexist in harmony.

  • The Chinese connection in unleashing Kenya’s tourism potential

    The Chinese connection in unleashing Kenya’s tourism potential

    Kenya’s ambitious goal to attract five million tourists annually by 2027 signals an era of transformation for the nation’s tourism industry. At the heart of this vision lies a deepening partnership with China, one of the world’s largest outbound tourism markets.

    A recent high-level meeting in Nairobi between Lu Yingchuan, the Vice Minister of China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and John Ololtuaa, the Principal Secretary of Kenya’s State Department for Tourism, underscored the strategic alignment between the two nations. The dialogue illuminated how collaboration could redefine Kenya’s global tourism appeal while enriching economic and cultural ties.

    Tourism remains a cornerstone of Kenya’s economy, contributing 4 per cent of the GDP and supporting over 2.3 million jobs. With international arrivals rising by 35.4 per cent in 2023, the sector’s upward trajectory is undeniable.

    China, as one of Kenya’s fastest-growing tourism markets, stands out as a key player in this expansion. Over 54,000 Chinese tourists visited Kenya by mid-October 2024, up from 53,000 in 2023, reflecting a sustained interest in Kenya’s unique wildlife, landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

    This growth is not incidental. Since 2014, a bilateral memorandum of understanding has laid the groundwork for collaborative tourism initiatives, including marketing, training and cultural exchanges.

    These efforts are now yielding visible results, evident in initiatives such as the Kenya Tourism Board’s (KTB) livestream of the Maasai Mara’s wildebeest migration. This event captivated 54 million viewers in China, spotlighting Kenya’s allure as a year-round destination for adventure, wildlife and culture.

    The growing partnership between Kenya and China is about more than just statistics. It represents a bridge between two distinct yet complementary cultures. For Chinese tourists, Kenya offers an unparalleled blend of adventure and heritage, from iconic safaris to the deep traditions of its communities. For Kenya, the influx of Chinese visitors translates to significant economic benefits and an invaluable opportunity to deepen cross-cultural understanding.

    Such engagements can transcend the transactional nature of tourism. By experiencing Kenya’s culture firsthand, Chinese visitors return home as informal ambassadors, sharing their positive experiences with friends and family. This word-of-mouth marketing can have a profound ripple effect, encouraging more visitors to discover Kenya’s wonders.

    Strategic investments in accessibility are making this cultural exchange more seamless. The recent introduction of Air Asia’s Kuala Lumpur-Nairobi route simplifies travel for Chinese and ASEAN visitors, while plans to expand direct flights between Kenya and China underscore the commitment to enhancing connectivity.

    Sustainability emerged as a key theme during the Nairobi meeting, reflecting a shared commitment to environmental conservation. Both nations understand that Kenya’s natural treasures, like the Maasai Mara and Amboseli, are not just tourist attractions but global ecological assets.

    Collaborative projects focusing on infrastructure development and eco-friendly tourism practices will ensure that Kenya’s tourism industry grows without compromising its environmental integrity.

    This emphasis on sustainability positions Kenya as a leader in responsible tourism, appealing to modern travellers increasingly aware of their ecological impact. For instance, the adoption of electric safari vehicles, eco-lodges and conservation partnerships will not only protect Kenya’s landscapes but also attract environmentally conscious tourists.

    Despite the encouraging numbers, Kenya’s share of China’s enormous outbound tourism market remains modest. Before the pandemic, over 160 million Chinese citizens travelled abroad annually, indicating vast untapped potential. To capture a larger slice of this audience, Kenya must diversify its tourism offerings and target specific demographics within China.

    The meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions sector, for example, presents a unique opportunity to attract business travellers who often spend more than leisure tourists. Additionally, Kenya’s rich culture spanning art, music, cuisine and historical narratives, offers a compelling draw for tourists seeking immersive experiences. Culinary tourism, featuring Kenya’s vibrant food culture, could be an innovative angle to attract Chinese visitors.

    Furthermore, educational and training programs could be expanded to ensure Kenyan tour operators understand the preferences and cultural sensitivities of Chinese travellers. By offering tailored experiences, Kenya can create a more welcoming environment, encouraging repeat visits and positive referrals.

    Kenya’s aspirations for a robust tourism sector cannot exist in isolation. Regional integration within East Africa offers another angle for growth. Tour packages that include multi-destination options, such as safaris in Kenya and gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda, could make the region more attractive to Chinese tourists looking for comprehensive travel experiences.

    The digital era has opened up new frontiers for tourism marketing. Kenya’s collaboration with Chinese media giants like CCTV and CGTN to livestream key attractions demonstrates the power of leveraging technology to reach a wider audience. Expanding this strategy to include virtual reality (VR) tours or interactive online campaigns could offer potential tourists a taste of Kenya’s magic before they even set foot in the country.

    Additionally, integrating digital tools like mobile payment systems popular in China, such as WeChat Pay and Alipay, into Kenya’s tourism infrastructure would simplify transactions for Chinese visitors, enhancing their overall experience.

    Kenya’s vision is clear – to be a global leader in tourism that is economically viable, culturally respectful, and environmentally sound. The strengthened ties with China are a significant step toward realising this vision, unlocking opportunities for shared prosperity and deeper connections between nations.

  • Mpox Update: Nakuru reports new case, total reaches 18

    Mpox Update: Nakuru reports new case, total reaches 18

    The Ministry of Health has announced one additional case of Mpox, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to 18.

    Health Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa revealed that the latest case was reported in Nakuru County.

    Providing a breakdown, CS Barasa stated that the cases are distributed across 11 counties: Nakuru (four), Nairobi (two), Mombasa (two), Kajiado (two), Bungoma (two), Taita Taveta (one), Busia (one), Makueni (one), Kericho (one), Uasin Gishu (one), and Kilifi (one).

    Out of the 18 cases, 14 individuals have made full recoveries, while four are currently under management.

    Barasa further disclosed that 115 contacts have been traced, with 80 having completed the 21-day observation period. Among these contacts, three tested positive for Mpox, and 32 are still being monitored.

    Since the outbreak began, the National Public Health Laboratory has tested 296 samples, resulting in 18 positive cases, 272 negative results, and six samples awaiting results.

    The government has also ramped up its screening efforts, with 1,900,967 travellers checked at Points of Entry to date, including 14,311 in the past 24 hours.

    CS Barasa emphasized the ministry’s commitment to bolstering surveillance systems to monitor and control the outbreak within the region.

    She urged Kenyans to adopt preventive measures such as avoiding close contact with infected individuals or their items, maintaining proper hand hygiene, and limiting the number of sexual partners to reduce exposure risks.

    “The Ministry of Health remains dedicated to safeguarding the health and well-being of all Kenyans,” Barasa said, commending the public’s adherence to health guidelines. “Your cooperation has been instrumental in slowing the spread of the virus and protecting our communities.”

    Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is caused by the monkeypox virus.

    The disease typically presents with symptoms such as a painful rash, swollen lymph nodes, and fever. While most patients recover fully, severe cases can occur.

  • Wetang’ula bids farewell to Chinese ambassador as tour of duty ends

    Wetang’ula bids farewell to Chinese ambassador as tour of duty ends

    Speaker Moses Wetang’ula bid farewell to Chinese Ambassador Zhou Pingjian Wednesday evening, marking the end of his four-year tenure in Kenya.

    During a courtesy call at the Speaker’s office, Wetang’ula lauded Ambassador Zhou for his pivotal role in enhancing bilateral relations between Kenya and China.

    “Today, I bid farewell to a long-term friend and a great servant who has significantly strengthened diplomatic ties between our two countries,” said Wetang’ula.

    The Speaker praised the Ambassador for fostering collaboration in key areas, including development, economics, education, technology, and security.

    “Ambassador Zhou has been a great pillar in ensuring Kenya and China engaged at higher levels across multiple sectors,” he added.

    Ambassador Zhou, in turn, expressed his appreciation for the close working relationship with Speaker Wetang’ula and the Parliament of Kenya.

    “I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to work in Kenya and the collaborative efforts we have achieved together. I was honoured to be the first ambassador to visit your office after your election, and I have experienced a smooth working relationship with you, Mr. Speaker,” stated Ambassador Zhou.

    The outgoing envoy also highlighted the importance of the Kenya-China Parliamentary Friendship Group in fostering knowledge exchange and deepening parliamentary diplomacy.

    “I valued the positive engagements and the sustained bilateral momentum between our two nations. Strengthening the Kenya-China Parliamentary Friendship Group will be critical in advancing parliamentary diplomacy,” he said.

    Ambassador Zhou further acknowledged Wetang’ula’s advocacy for China-Africa relations, urging him to continue championing deeper collaboration between Kenya and China.

    “I will always cherish our friendship and the progress we have made together. Though I am leaving, my heart will remain with Kenya,” he affirmed.

    Speaker Wetang’ula commended Ambassador Zhou’s dedication and contributions, noting the long-standing relationship between Kenya and China since the establishment of diplomatic missions in 1963.

    “Kenya and China enjoy cordial and robust relations. I assure you that these engagements will continue to grow. I wish Ambassador Zhou Pingjian a safe journey back to China and look forward to future collaborations,” remarked the Speaker.

    The Speaker also extended his appreciation to the visiting Chinese delegation to Parliament, led by Prof. Hao Ping, a Member of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress and Vice-Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, alongside other members of the National People’s Congress.

    Kenya-China relations were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2017, underscoring the significance of mutual respect, trust, and collaboration.

    The partnership remains a cornerstone of China’s engagement with Africa, with Kenya regarded as a key ally on the continent.

  • Police bans Thursday demos over lack of proper notification

    Police bans Thursday demos over lack of proper notification

    Demonstrations planned for Thursday, November 21, 2024, have been declared unlawful due to organizers’ failure to notify the National Police Service (NPS) as required by law.

    On behalf of the Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Resila Onyango confirmed that no formal notice had been submitted to the Regulating Officer, a prerequisite under the Public Order Act for holding public demonstrations.

    Dr. Onyango clarified that while the Constitution guarantees the right to assemble, demonstrate, picket, and petition public offices, this right is contingent upon fulfilling legal obligations.

    “The notification, which must be provided at least three days and no more than fourteen days before the event, enables the police to implement adequate safety and security measures,” she explained.

    In the absence of such a notice, she noted, the planned demonstrations are non-compliant with the law.

    Dr. Onyango stressed that adherence to these procedural requirements is vital to ensuring public safety and maintaining order during gatherings.

    She reassured citizens of the NPS’s unwavering commitment to protecting all Kenyans while balancing law enforcement with respect for constitutional freedoms.

    “Law-abiding citizens are encouraged to go about their daily activities without fear, as the police remain vigilant and ready to maintain peace and security nationwide,” she said.

    Organizers and the public were reminded that bypassing legal procedures not only violates the law but also jeopardizes efforts to safeguard public safety during such events.

  • President Ruto pledges Ksh 100M to combat femicide in Kenya

    President Ruto pledges Ksh 100M to combat femicide in Kenya

    President William Ruto has pledged Ksh 100 million to the Safe Homes, Safe Spaces campaign, a nationwide initiative aimed at addressing the alarming rise in femicide cases in Kenya.

    Speaking after a meeting with women leaders at State House, the President emphasized the urgent need for collective action to protect women and girls from violence, describing the increasing cases of femicide as a pressing and deeply troubling issue.

    “Every four out of five women killed in Kenya lose their lives to intimate partner violence, often in places they consider safe,” said President Ruto.

    He expressed his condolences to affected families and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling this scourge.

    The President commended the women leaders for their practical solutions and proposals to address the issue, emphasizing that this challenge requires the concerted efforts of government, religious leaders, parents, teachers, civil society, and all citizens of goodwill.

    To combat the rising cases of femicide, the President outlined several measures, including strengthening gender desks in police stations and introducing similar services in hospitals to ensure victims receive immediate care.

    He also directed criminal justice actors to execute their mandates swiftly, ensuring that perpetrators of femicide are held accountable.

    President Ruto reiterated the government’s explicit commitment to ending all forms of violence, noting that protecting women begins at home, in communities, and through institutions.

    The Safe Homes, Safe Spaces campaign, set to launch during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence on November 25, 2023, will prioritize psychosocial support and the creation of safe spaces for women and children.

    The President stressed the importance of awareness, urging communities to educate themselves on the signs and causes of abuse and to promote available resources such as toll-free hotlines like GBV 1195, the Child Helpline 116, and the DCI anonymous reporting number 0800 722 203.

    President Ruto highlighted the need to equip young people with life skills and awareness to navigate societal risks safely.

    He expressed concern over the exploitation of youth on social media and called on parents, schools, and community organizations to provide guidance and counselling.

    He also urged religious leaders to use their platforms to advocate for women’s rights, fostering a positive environment for women and children.

    As part of the 16 Days of Activism approach, women leaders have committed to leading awareness campaigns across the country.

    The President called on all Kenyans to join the movement, to speak out, educate, and stand united against femicide. “Femicide has no place in Kenya. Together, we shall eradicate this vice and create a society where every woman lives in safety, dignity, and freedom from fear,” he said.

    This marks a decisive step by the government in collaboration with communities to confront the scourge of femicide and ensure a safer future for women and girls in Kenya.

  • Lamu MP Ruweida Obo registers gifts, sets integrity benchmark

    Lamu MP Ruweida Obo registers gifts, sets integrity benchmark

    Lamu East MP Ruweida Obo has demonstrated exemplary integrity by officially registering gifts she received from 99 dockers in Lamu County, setting a precedent for compliance with public service ethics.

    The dockers, who recently secured permanent and pensionable employment following her intervention through President William Ruto, presented the gifts as an expression of gratitude.

    The total value of the gifts exceeded Ksh 20,000, a threshold that legally requires public officers to declare and register such items.

    Ruweida, in adherence to the law, promptly visited the Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetangula, to officially record the gifts in line with her obligations as an employee of the Parliamentary Service Commission.

    “Today, I have formally registered these gifts, given to me by these grateful young men and women,” she said. “We make the law and live by the law.”

    Her actions underscore the importance of accountability and transparency in public service, demonstrating her commitment to ethical leadership.

    As the first female MP for Lamu East, Ruweida has set a powerful example for her peers, showcasing the importance of complying with the Public Officer Ethics Act.

    By formally declaring the gifts, she reinforces the legal framework that aims to curb potential conflicts of interest while fostering public trust in leadership.

    Her conduct serves as a reminder that adherence to laws governing the receipt of gifts is not only a legal requirement but also a moral obligation for all public officers.

    Ruweida’s actions stand as a benchmark for ethical leadership, inspiring other leaders to uphold integrity and transparency in their service to the public.

  • NA moves to shield boda boda riders from predatory digital lenders

    NA moves to shield boda boda riders from predatory digital lenders

    The National Assembly Committee on Finance and National Planning has kicked off the process to shield boda boda operators from the grip of predatory digital lenders.

    This follows a series of public participation forums to gather nationwide input on three critical Bills aimed at reforming laws governing digital lending.

    The proposed amendments, contained in the Tax Laws (Amendment) Bill 2024, Tax Procedures (Amendment) Bill 2024, and Business Laws (Amendment) Bill 2024, aim to introduce fair practices and transparency in the Buy-Now-Pay-Later (BNPL) credit sector.

    These legislative efforts come in response to petitions from boda boda operators who raised concerns about exploitative lending practices. Their petition prompted the Finance and National Planning Committee to investigate allegations of predatory behaviour by unscrupulous lenders.

    The Business Laws (Amendment) Bill 2024 seeks to regulate micro-lending and protect borrowers by introducing stricter rules for non-deposit-taking credit providers. Among the proposed changes, borrowers will receive clear and accurate information about loan terms, associated financial costs, and their rights and duties.

    The Bill also proposes amending the Central Bank Act to mandate licensing for all non-deposit-taking credit providers. This measure aims to eliminate unregulated lenders and enforce a standard code of conduct.

    Digital lenders will be required to disclose full lending terms, maintain confidentiality of borrower information, and operate within a legally sanctioned framework. The Bill also prohibits harassment, abuse, or the use of threatening language during loan recovery. Violators will face penalties under the proposed legislation.

    If passed, these amendments will empower the Central Bank to oversee the digital lending sector and ensure compliance, complementing ongoing efforts by the Office of the Data Commissioner to protect borrowers’ rights.

    The proposed reforms underscore the government’s commitment to creating a fair and transparent digital lending landscape. By addressing exploitative practices in the BNPL sector, the legislation aims to bring stability to the boda boda sector, which serves as a critical pillar of Kenya’s economy.

    With potential penalties for non-compliance, the Bills mark a significant step in safeguarding borrowers, promoting ethical lending practices, and curbing illegal credit operations.