Author: Dismas Otuke

  • Kenyan chef Maliha sets new Guinness World Record for the longest cooking session

    Kenyan chef Maliha sets new Guinness World Record for the longest cooking session

    Celebrated Kenyan chef Maliha Mohammed has achieved the Guinness World Record for the longest solo cooking session.

    Maliha claimed the longest cooking marathon (individual) award after clocking 150 hours, 11 seconds, breaking the previous record of 119 hours, 57 minutes, and 16 seconds set by Irishman Alan Fisher on November 7, 2023.

    Maliha, who is also looking to receive her Guinness World Record acknowledgement for the longest home kitchen cooking marathon she set in August, endured six gruelling days where her mental and physical strength were tested to the limit.

    Chef-Maliha-Mohammed-smiles-as-she-attempts-to-break-the-Guinness-World-Record-for-the-longest-individual-cooking-marathon

    Amanda Donahue, CEO of Proto Energy, the parent company of Sea Gas, expressed her pride in the sponsorship, stating, “We are honoured by Chef Maliha’s determination, which mirrors our commitment to supporting and fueling the aspirations of those who dare to dream.

    She is an amazing young woman, and we couldn’t be more proud to stand with her as she puts Kenya on the global map.”

    As part of the sponsorship, Sea Gas will help expedite the verification process from the Guinness Book of World Records team, ensuring the chef gets her recognition within five days.

    She was excited about this achievement, posting: “The lion, the conqueror, the champion is here! 150 hours, and the record is home. Thanks to all that came through, especially Kenyans who made it to witness this prolific moment in time. Remember, be phenomenal or be forgotten!”

    In an interview after she broke the record at 12:34 a.m. on Wednesday, she said: “Embarking on this journey was undoubtedly one of the most difficult yet fulfilling undertakings of my career,” she noted.

    “Every second felt like an eternity, but also an opportunity to push beyond limits. This has not just been a personal triumph but a celebration of the resilience that resides within each of us. It has been a journey and labour of love from Kenyans from all walks of life.”

    Chef Maliha and her team celebrates after she broke the Guinness World Record for the longest individual cooking marathon

    Chef Maliha is no stranger to pushing culinary boundaries. In her initial attempt, she lasted an impressive 90 hours and 15 minutes, shattering the previous record of 68 hours, 30 minutes, and 1 second.

    However, Nigerian chef Hilda Baci managed to reclaim the title shortly after, only for Irish chef Alan Fisher to surpass the achievement.

    Proto Energy CEO Amanda Donahue offers her support to Chef Maliha as she attempts to break the Guinness World Record for the longest individual cooking marathon

    “We are proud to stand alongside Chef Maliha as she conquers new culinary frontiers,” said Amanda Donahue, CEO of Proto Energy, which is sponsoring her quest. “Our support goes beyond the kitchen; it’s a commitment to fueling not only kitchens but also the aspirations of those who dare to dream.”

    The chef and her team will now be waiting for official ratification of the record from the Guinness World Record team, with a decision to be made within the next five days.

  • KNBS launch technical working committee on citizen generated data

    KNBS launch technical working committee on citizen generated data

    The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics has officially launched the Technical Working Committee on Citizen-Generated Data which will help in bridging gaps on data provision especially in community set up.

    Citizen-generated data is a testament to the government’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity in collections of data from citizens.

    According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics Director, Mr. Benjamin Avusevwa Filling data gaps is a challenge, and by forming the task force, citizens will actively be involved in data generation by capturing a more comprehensive and subtle picture of their needs, aspirations, and challenges.

    Citizen-generated data will not only fill gaps in missing information but also amplify the voices of people.

    Center:Director KNBS, Mr. Benjamin Avisevwa Left:Senior Advisor International Development CooperationStatistics Sweden Right:James Ng’ang’a, Snr Manager KNBS
    During, Inauguration of the Technical Working Committee on Citizen-Generated Date at safari park Hotel Nairobi on 22nd Nov 2023

    The data will be used in a systematic way to ensure it is useful and valid for official use.
    Information is critical to the government as it helps plan the development agenda.

    The technical working committee that has been launched today will bring together all stakeholders to have a common understanding and ensure there’s a platform for capacity building by enabling citizens to avail themselves of data.

    The government has assured of its commitment to embrace citizen-generated data as a tool for development and progress, calling upon citizens to work together to ensure that the country continues to be a pacemaker in the realm of citizen-generated data, setting standards that elevate the country and inspire other countries.

    On issues of breaching privacy, KNBS has assured the public of its commitment to ensure it does not infringe on personal or private information. “Protecting data is crucial.

    Implementing strong privacy measures ensures trust and continued participation.

    It’s about respecting and securing our data contributors.”

    Speaking during the launch, George Awala, board chair of the Kenya Sustainable Development Forum, noted that they are keen on making the voices of citizens count, as inclusive data is critical for both citizens and the government.

    Citizen-generated data will also enable citizens to hold the government accountable for its promises.

    Compared to previous years, data generation has increased, and the usage of collected data has been fully utilised.
    The seven thematic areas that the data will focus on include:

    • Ministry of Health, Health Network (HENET), International Centre for Reproductive Health Kenya
    • Gender under the State Department of Gender, National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), GROOTS Women, UN Women, and Open Institute
    • Governance and Education: under Twaweza, Kenya National Human Rights Commission, Ministry of Education, Usawa Agenda
    • Water Sanitation and Hygiene under the Ministryof water
    • Environment and climate change under the stewardship of the Pan-Africa Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA)
    • Cross-cutting under the stewardship of KNBS, COG, SDG Kenya Forum, Paris 21.
    • State Department Economic Planning, SDG Coordination Directorate, and GPDd.

    The data collection method will be made easy by the Open Institute University, which will guide citizens on how to collect data.

    The new method will also enable Kenyans to swiftly provide real-time data through collaboration with private stakeholders and civil society, which will be used for policy formulation.

    Segregating citizen-generated data will unveil hidden trends and needs in communities, guiding targeted interventions as it is data with a purpose.

  • Blue Africa Summit Welcomes King Mohammed VI’s ‘Tangier Declaration

    Blue Africa Summit Welcomes King Mohammed VI’s ‘Tangier Declaration

    The inaugural Blue Africa Summit took place in Tangier from November 16–17, and attendees praised Moroccan King Mohammed VI’s “strong ocean commitment.

    ” The nations along the African Atlantic coast were urged to “join

    Morocco’s initiative of a coalition of united countries” in the Tangier Declaration, which was released following this summit, which was convened for the first time on African soil.

    They also called on all national and local authorities on the African continent to devise plans or strategies for sustainable development of their coastlines and exclusive economic zones, support the creation of maritime space plans nationally and internationally to develop a sustainable blue economy, and promote, among other things, the protection of these spaces and their precious biodiversity up to 30% by 2030.

    Participants in this summit, initiated by the Academy of the Kingdom of Morocco and Saison Bleue, exhorted maritime entrepreneurs to develop sustainable economic models taking into account the well-being of coastal populations, while inviting States to encourage initiatives, such as the Great Blue Wall or maritime corridors combining scientific expertise, citizen engagement and development to protect the Ocean, a common resource.

    They also called on African countries and international partners, recognizing the leadership of the Union of the Comoros in its capacity as current President of the African Union, to join the African Panel of Heads of State for the development of a regenerative blue economy, created at the Africa Climate Summit.

    In this respect, they stressed the need for all stakeholders concerned to recognize the importance of establishing a permanent mechanism serving as a platform for dialogue and an incubator of concrete initiatives to strengthen the Africa-Europe strategic partnership.

    Recalling that Africa, with a population that will reach 2 billion inhabitants by 2050, almost two thirds of which will live less than 60 km from a coastline, is a continent that deserves special treatment, the participants said that African growth depends and will largely depend on investments in the blue economy or finance, as long as they benefit local economies and populations.

    In this regard, they underlined that the opening up of Sahel and interior Africa countries can only be achieved through an ambitious ocean vision.

    This recognition of the African ocean obviously involves the development of coastal and port infrastructure, as well as fishing and commercial fleets which will allow States and populations to benefit from their own commercial, fishing, marine, genetic and energy resources, they pointed out.

    The Blue Africa Summit was attended by representatives of 26 countries out of the 38 coastal States on the African continent, as well as their neighbors from the Mediterranean, Atlantic and Indian basins, political leaders, representatives of the scientific community, civil society, African youth and economic stakeholders.

    This event was also attended by senior representatives of the United Nations, the European Union and other organizations representing maritime nations.

     

  • CAF A license training for coaches kicks off in Agadir

    CAF A license training for coaches kicks off in Agadir

    CAF A license training course began in Agadir on Monday, November 20, 2023, with thirty participants, including 25 former top-level Moroccan players.

    The training which runs until Friday 24 of this month is organized by the Direction Technique Nationale (DTN), in collaboration with the Ligue Régionale Souss-Massa and will see the participation of four coaches from partner African associations (Nigeria, Togo, and the Congo).

    CAF A License  training session in Agadir

    Training sessions includes theoretical sessions in the classroom, model sessions led by experts, practical situations for candidates led by CAF and UEFA experts, as well as mentoring and methodology sessions.

  • Palmeraie polo club d’Assilah wins  2nd edition of the Coupe du Trône

    Palmeraie polo club d’Assilah wins 2nd edition of the Coupe du Trône

    Patrick Guerrand-Hermès (PGH) la Palmeraie Polo Club d’Assilah team won the title of the 2nd edition of the Coupe du Trône, organised from November 14 to 19 by the Royal Moroccan Polo Federation.

    PGH la Palmeraie Polo Club d’Assilah won the prestigious title by beating the Garde Royale team 6-5 in the final held at the “Club Polo de la Garde Royale” in Souissi-Rabat.

    Third place went to the Polo Club Jnan Amar de Marrakech, following its victory on Saturday over the Ecole Royale de Cavalerie de Témara team by 11 goals to 4 ½.

    In the semi-finals, the Garde Royale team beat the Ecole Royale de Cavalerie (7-1), while the PGH la Palmeraie Polo Club team qualified at the expense of the Polo Club Jnan Amar (8-3).

    Patrick Guerrand-Hermès (PGH) la Palmeraie Polo Club d’Assilah in action

    The qualifying rounds were held at the “Club Polo Houara” in Tangier from November 14 to 16.

    At the end of the final, Moulay Abdellah Alaoui, President of the Royal Moroccan Federation of Equestrian Sports, presented the trophy to the captain of the winning team.

    The title of the first edition was won by the Garde Royale team, which defeated PGH la Palmeraie Polo Club d’Assilah in the final (5-0).

  • Craft Silicon donates its first solar-powered computer bus to Ethiopia to advance digital literacy

    Craft Silicon donates its first solar-powered computer bus to Ethiopia to advance digital literacy

    Craft Silicon Foundation, non-profit organisation committed to advancing digital literacy, unveiled its pioneer free digital literacy programme in Ethiopia by donating a first solar powered computer bus.

    Designed to bridge the digital divide, this initiative seeks to empower individuals across the nation with indispensable digital skills.

    Addressing the pressing need to foster digital inclusion, the Craft Silicon Foundation introduced solar-powered computer buses as a last-mile solution to narrow the significant digital gap prevalent among the youth, women, and children in Ethiopia.

    These buses serve as a beacon of access, delivering essential digital education to communities.

    Employing cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology, the programme offers personalised and interactive learning experiences.

    Participants gain access to a rich array of resources, including immersive video tutorials, engaging quizzes, and real-time feedback mechanisms.

    “Digital literacy stands as the cornerstone of empowerment in our increasingly interconnected world,” emphasised Madam Priya Budhabhatti, CEO of Craft Silicon Foundation. “In today’s technological landscape, the ability to navigate, comprehend, and harness digital tools is not just a skill but a fundamental right.

    Our mission with this free programme is to break barriers and equip individuals from diverse backgrounds across Ethiopia with the knowledge and skills needed to not just adapt but excel in the digital sphere.

    We envision a future where every individual, irrespective of their background, possesses the proficiency to confidently navigate the digital realm, unlocking a myriad of new opportunities and pathways to success.”

    The comprehensive curriculum covers fundamental computer skills, internet navigation, online safety, and digital communication.

    Moreover, participants delve into the realm of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cloud computing, preparing them for the dynamic digital landscape.

    “We are thrilled to collaborate with Craft Silicon Foundation in their endeavour to promote digital literacy in communities across Addis Ababa, Ethiopia,” expressed Debang Ruot, representing the Ethiopian ambassador to Kenya. “This programme offers tailored learning experiences, ensuring participants acquire the necessary skills to excel in the digital era.”

    The free digital literacy programme warmly welcomes individuals of all ages and backgrounds to enrol.

    Interested participants can register for the programme by visiting the Craft Silicon Foundation website at www.craftsiliconfoundation.org.

  • Marrakesh and Rabat main tourist  destination cities in Morocco

    Marrakesh and Rabat main tourist destination cities in Morocco

    Morocco is a popular travel destination, drawing about 8 million tourists a year and bringing in a total of US$7.5 billion in income.

    The hospitality business gains about 600,000 additional employments from the tourism sector.

    Every year, millions of travellers visit Rabat, the administrative capital, and Marrakesh, the hub of tourism.

    Traffic throughout Africa increased dramatically in the past year, with aviation traffic there being almost back to pre-pandemic levels.

     

    A cultural space since the 11th century, the Jemaa el-Fna Square in Marrakesh is a UNESCO World Heritage site with musical, religious, and artistic performances

    Even though Rabat is one of Morocco’s four imperial towns, tourists have long avoided it in favour of the well-worn splendor of destinations like Tangier, Fez, and Marrakech.

    Given the city’s current artistic and cultural revolution, that might alter this year.

    The Mohammed VI Tower, which is expected to be the tallest and only spire of its sort in Africa, is one of the most talked-about attractions. It is intended to be LEED Gold and HQE certified.

    The Grand Theatre of Rabat, a new theatre that is opening close by, is possibly even more exciting.

    Known as one of the unfinished masterpieces of renowned architect Zaha Hadid, it will feature green areas, a 7,000-person amphitheater, an experimental performance space, and 1,800 seats for theatregoers.

    It will hold symphony, ballet, opera, and philharmonic events (all of which are expected before 2023 ends), making it the biggest facility of its sort in both Africa and the Arab world.

    The 2024 Mawazine festival is another eagerly awaited cultural venture that will resume this summer following a COVID-19-caused break.

    A man pauses to gaze across the undulating Sahara Desert.

    Although the roster is yet unknown, A-listers like Mariah Carey and Rihanna have previously attended Africa’s biggest festival.

    While you’re visiting the city, a number of well-known hotel openings will facilitate a smooth transition.

    A new age of contemporary luxury in the old city is being heralded by the recently opened Fairmont La Marina Rabat Salé and Conrad Rabat Arzana.

    The much awaited Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr Al Bahr, which is scheduled to open in late 2023, and the upcoming Ritz-Carlton Rabat Dar Es Salam are the main sources of excitement.

  • Kadenge stadium will be ready in 2024 says the  county sports chief

    Kadenge stadium will be ready in 2024 says the county sports chief

    Nairobi Chief Officer Youth, Talent and Sports, Oscar Igaida has emphasised the county government’s commitment to ensure the ongoing construction works at the Joe Kadenge stadium ends on the stipulated time to pave way for its reopening next year.

    Igaida made the remarks when he conducted an Inspection tour of the ongoing drainage works at the Joe Kadenge stadium formerly known as City stadium early this week.

    “In August Governor Sakaja initiated a groundbreaking exercise for the rehabilitation works for the Woodley Stadium and Joe Kadenge Stadium formerly known as City Stadium. The county government has set aside close to 600 million Shillings in this year’s budget to elevate the stadium to international standards.

    Governor Sakaja in his manifesto laid a focus on providing the youth with opportunities to improve their livelihoods, Sakaja believes that revamping sports, creative arts, and talents will be able to provide an environment that nurtures, grows, and monetizes their talents.

    Sakaja-Muchiri, therefore, commit to initiating an annual “Sakaja” Cup tournament together with an annual Nairobi Festival in December that will showcase the city and host an all-sports inclusive fund and also deliver sports Centres in all sub-counties.

    He also promise to lobby for improved royalty payments to content creators and lobby for 60% play time for local content on TVs.”Said Chief Officer for Youth, Talent and sports Mr. Igaida

    “Nairobi City County has started the refurbishment of Joe Kadenge Stadium formerly known as City Stadium to International standards.

    The facility will be revamped at a cost of Kshs. 525 million in the 2023/2024 financial year budget to elevate the stadium to the international standards and will have all disciplines for an international stadium.”

    City Stadium was renamed Joe Kadenge by the previous ward representatives in honour of our renowned late footballer.

    Once completed the stadium will attain international stature as Nyayo National stadium and will be used for both local and international events and will be maned by the county government of Nairobi.

  • KPC got off to a flying start at the inaugural CAVB Zone 5, thrashing KCCA 3-0

    KPC got off to a flying start at the inaugural CAVB Zone 5, thrashing KCCA 3-0

    Kenya Pipeline Women Volleyball Club (KPC) got off to a flying start on Day 2 of the inaugural CAVB Africa Zone 5 Club Championships, which kicked off at the Bank of Kigalu Arena in Kigali, Rwanda, on Tuesday, beating Kampala City Council Authority (KCA) by three straight sets of 25-19, 25-15, and 25-21.

    Following their 10-5 victory over the Ugandan Club, KPC let up, allowing KCCA to close the distance and even surpass them 14–15.

    KPC battled back heroically to level 16-16 and win the set easily 25-19 because to accurate sets from Captain Magoi and powerful on-target hits from Pamela Odhiambo, the opposing player.

    Tushemer, a Toweing left attacker, was a standout for KCCA.

    Silver medallists from Africa Pipeline overcame a rough beginning to lead 7–7 before pulling away to lead 10–8, 17–11, and 22–12 before prevailing.

    Towering centre Yvonne Sinaida and Kasaya were introduced by seasoned coach Mburu Gitau, who helped the oilers win the second set easily, 25’25.

    After adopting a different strategy, KPC was able to turn a 6-6, 7-7 tie into a 9-7, 10/7, and 11-8 easy sail by using more Kasaya/Atuka Centre and assaults.

    Effectively executed e-balls from Joan Tushenereiwe of KCCA, who gave a brief but bright reprieve before retreating on 11-11, 17-13, 21-17, and 23-18.

    Atuka’s B-Quick game killer, which ended the straight sets game triumph at 25-21, was too much for the resolute Kampala girls to overcome, not even the timeout at this moment.

    KPC’s small second libero Pamela Nyongesa was the audience favourite because of her outstanding back-court cover.

  • Safari sevens returns with Shujaa and Lionesses in the spotlight

    Safari sevens returns with Shujaa and Lionesses in the spotlight

    The famous all eyes are on the current African Rugby Champions Kenya men’s National team, Shujaa and their counterparts, Kenya’s Lionesses who are ranked second in the continent.
    The exciting three-day rugby spectacle, scheduled to take place from Friday through Sunday, has finally reached its conclusion, as the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) Board proudly declared today.

    “We’ve put in extensive work to prepare for Safari Sevens, ensuring it remains a key event in our rugby calendar,” said Sasha Mutai, Chairman of KRU, regarding his anticipation for the competition. It may not have the same grandeur as the 2013 competition, but there is no denying its importance in preserving the event’s heritage.”

    The renowned competition will return after a break in 2018 will be held at the Rugby Football Union of East Africa (RFUEA) facilities along Ngong Road in Nairobi from November 17–19.

    Mutai emphasised the significance of the competition by saying, “The Safari Sevens are an important part of Kenya’s rugby growth, exhibiting both local and international talent. Because it marks the beginning of Shujaa’s return to the World Series and their qualification for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, this year is especially significant.”

    He continued, “As a key preparatory event for the Paris 2024 Olympics, the tournament offers an invaluable platform for teams like Shujaa and the Lionesses to hone their skills for the international stage.”

    Shujaa, Morans, KCB (champions of the National 7s Circuit), Uganda, Samurai, Germany, Red Wailers, Tropic 7s, Western Province, and SA All Stars are among the men’s teams taking part. Kenya’s Lionesses 1 and 2 are competing in the women’s division; Uganda, Tuks Women, and Tropic 7s are competing.

    These teams’ participation is essential since it gives the African champions a rare chance to face them on their own pitch, particularly the African squads and global giants.

    With sponsors including the Ministry of Sports through Talanta Hela, Tusker, Faiba, Coca-Cola, Samsung, and Rexona, among others, this year’s event has attracted considerable corporate support.

    Kenya Rugby Union Commercial Director, Harriet Okach, emphasised the renewed commitment to integrity: “The recent efforts to rebuild trust with our corporate partners have been a cornerstone of our strategy. We’re dedicated to upholding strong governance, aiming to restore the prestige of Kenyan rugby.”

    She concluded, “The return of Safari Sevens is a landmark event for Kenyan rugby. It’s an exceptional opportunity for the sport to expand its reach both locally and internationally.”