Author: Dismas Otuke

  • Morocco express concern  on continued militarization  of Gaza and worsening of humanitarian situation

    Morocco express concern on continued militarization of Gaza and worsening of humanitarian situation

    The Kingdom of Morocco, whose King Mohammed VI chairs the Al-Quds Committee, reiterates its great concern and its deep indignation following the escalation of military operations and the worsening of the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.

    More than three weeks after the outbreak of military clashes, civilians are still targeted, causing thousands of victims among children and women and tens of thousands of injured, homeless, and missing, adding that places of worship, hospitals, and refugee camps are still bombed; the latest is the Jabalya camp.

    Missiles and shells are more and more randomly targeting civilian facilities, forcing more than a million people to flee and depriving the population of water, electricity, and fuel, thus generating a catastrophic humanitarian situation.

    The Kingdom of Morocco affirms that all these Israeli acts of escalation are in contradiction with international humanitarian law and common human values and warns of a spread of the conflict inside the Palestinian territories and the dangerous expansion of the perimeter of violence to affect neighboring areas, thus threatening the security and stability of the entire region.

    Morocco can only express its regret and disappointment at the inaction of the international community, the Security Council’s failure to assume its responsibilities, and the inability of influential countries to put an end to this catastrophic situation.

    Reiterating its support for the Palestinian National Authority and its national institutions, under the leadership of President Mahmoud Abbas, the Kingdom of Morocco, under the leadership of the King, calls for a de-escalation leading to a ceasefire and the opening of humanitarian corridors to facilitate the entry of aid in a rapid, sustainable, and unhindered manner, as well as the release of prisoners and detainees, with the obligation to open a political perspective to the Palestinian issue, making it possible to relaunch the two-state solution, as agreed by the international community.

    The Kingdom of Morocco, whose King Mohammed VI chairs the Al-Quds Committee, expresses its grave concern and outrage over the escalation of military operations and deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.

    More than three weeks after the outbreak of military clashes, civilians are still being targeted, resulting in thousands of deaths among children and women, as well as tens of thousands of injured, homeless, and missing, with places of worship, hospitals, and refugee camps being bombed; the most recent is the Jabalya camp.

    Missiles and shells are increasingly randomly targeting civilian facilities, forcing over a million people to leave and depriving the population of water, electricity, and gasoline, resulting in a disastrous humanitarian crisis.

  • African  referees attend CAF training

    African referees attend CAF training

    The training course for Elite coaching instructors, organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) since October 18, came to a close on Wednesday October 25, 2023.

    This session, initiated in collaboration with the FRMF, was of great benefit to the new coaches, who confirmed their status while benefiting from the rich experience of former technicians who reconfirmed their title.

    A total of sixteen coaches and technicians from fourteen African nations, including Moroccans Lhoussain Ammouta and Jamal Sellami, were officially confirmed after passing the assessment.

     

    Part of the CAF training session

    The course was led by FIFA’s Director of Coaching Education, M. Branimir Ujevic, CAF’s Director of Technical Affairs, Mr. Raul Chipenda, and FIFA and CAF experts of various nationalities, including Mr. Malouche Bellahssen, Mr. Fathi Jamal and Mr. Cérame Litswaka.

  • Morocco applauds the UN Security Council’s adoption of resolution on Moroccan  Sahara

    Morocco applauds the UN Security Council’s adoption of resolution on Moroccan Sahara

    Morocco welcomes the passage of Resolution 2703, dealing to the Moroccan Sahara by the United Nations Security Council on Monday, which comes in “a context marked by the ongoing positive momentum experienced by the issue, under the leadership of King Mohammed VI.

    “Resolution 2703 extends MINURSO’s mandate by one year, until the end of October 2024.

    The growing international support for the Moroccan Autonomy Initiative from nearly a hundred countries, the opening of more than thirty Consulates General in Laâyoune and Dakhla, the non-recognition of the puppet entity by more than 84% of UN member states, and the economic and social development of the country.

    It is in this context that the Security Council, through today’s resolution, reinforces its approach regarding the Moroccan Sahara issue, both in terms of the identification of the parties, the acknowledgement of the process framework, as well as the confirmation of its purpose.

    The resolution has clearly identified the parties to the political process, which shall assume their political,legal and moral responsibility in seeking a final solution to the regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara.

    It cites Algeria in particular six times, as many times as Morocco, confirming that Algeria is in deed the main party to this artificial dispute.

    Likewise, the new resolution establishes round tables as the sole framework of the political process, with in particular the participation of Algeria, a directly involved stakeholder.

    Finally, the Security Council confirmed that the final political solution can only be a “realistic, pragmatic, sustainable political solution based on compromise”, noting that these parameters are once again coupled with the support of the Security Council for the Moroccan Autonomy Initiative, described as “serious and credible”.

    It is important to note, in this context, that several countries around the world clearly express their support for this Initiative as an essential basis for any solution to this regional dispute.

    Furthermore, the new resolution sent a call to order to the “polisario” concerning its violations and restrictions on the freedom of movement of MINURSO, adding that it again asked Algeria to allow the registration of the populations of Tindouf camps.

    Building on its achievements and the consistency of the Security Council’s approach,king Mohammed VI has reiterated his commitment to supporting the efforts of the UN Secretary General and his Personal Envoy aimed at relaunching the round-table process, with a view to reaching a political solution, based on the Moroccan Autonomy Initiative and in strict respect of the territorial integrity and national sovereignty of the Kingdom.

  • Kanbis,Stray Lions dominate  NPCA multi season Gala Awards

    Kanbis,Stray Lions dominate NPCA multi season Gala Awards

    Kanbis, Ruaraka, and Stray Lions were among the standout teams in the multi-season Nairobi Cricket Association (NPCA) Awards Gala night, which took place at Sikh Union Club.

    The vibrant NPCA gala honoured groups and people that had excelled throughout the previous four seasons, which were 2018–19, 2021/22, 2022–23, and 2022–24.

    Jackson Indakwa from the Sports Ministry, Manoj Patel, the Kenyan cricket player, his CEO Ronald Bukusi, and the entire NPCA Executive Committee, which is led by Chairman Kanti Rabadia and Secretary Narendra Patel, were among those who graced the auspicious occasion.

    Most of the prizes went to Kanbis teams, such as the one from 2022–2023 where Eastleigh High School teams won all three divisions: the Development team in Division 2, the A team in the Super Division, and the B team in Division One.

    In one of the most colorful gala awards in recent times, Stray Lions A were feted for clinching the 50 Overs League Super Division League in the 2021/22 season ahead of runners-up Kanbis A.

    Swamibapa A also featured prominently at the gala as they got their mitts on the 2022/23 Knockouts trophy, with Ruaraka being feted as the runners up.

    Thika Road-based Ruaraka A were bestowed with the coveted 2023/24 50-Overs League trophy, their first ever since they beat Kanbis to the title on the closing match day.

    Nairobi Club-based Kenya Kongonis Cricket Club A collected their silverware for lifting the 2023/24 50 Overs League.

    Kongonis A tied on 46 points with Ngara Sports Club A, but the former was home and dry courtesy of the Net Run Rate Rule.

    Kongonis, one of the oldest cricket clubs in the country, will be joining the elite Super Division ranks next season following their division-winning performance.

  • Polisario claims responsibility for the attack on Sahara City of  Es-Smara

    Polisario claims responsibility for the attack on Sahara City of Es-Smara

    The attack, which occurred Es-Smara town on the evening of October 28–29, has been attributed to the Polisario Front who claimed responsibility.

    According to Moroccan News Agency, three people were injured and a young Moroccan resident of France died as a result of the attack. An investigation has been opened by the office of the public prosecutor.

    The same Polisario sources claim that Mahbes and Farsia were also affected by similar military actions. The Polisario militia reported “heavy losses in enemy trenches” from these attacks, although they made no mention of civilian casualties. There is no mention of the Moroccan inquiry.

    Following the news release, a piece on the pro-Polisario ECSahraoui website tempers the claims, clarifying that the Saharawi groups carried out attacks in the “vast Es-Smara sector” and did not result in any civilian casualties.

    Nonetheless, it should be mentioned that the attack had an influence on four impact zones spread across three districts in the municipality of Es-Smara. Pictures that have gone viral on social media purport to show shrapnel remnants on the town’s residential walls.

    The blasts damaged two houses, authorities said in a statement, without adding further details.

  • Morocco, Spain,and Portugal Federation Presidents meet in Lisbon to plan for the 2030 World Cup

    Morocco, Spain,and Portugal Federation Presidents meet in Lisbon to plan for the 2030 World Cup

    As part of their combined campaign to host the 2030 World Cup, the presidents of the federations of Morocco, Portugal, and Spain convened on Wednesday morning in Lisbon.

    To continue preparations for the bid, which spans two continents and wants to be the finest ever for a World Cup, the leaders’ conference brought together Pedro Rocha (Royal Spanish Football Federation), Fernando Gomes (Portuguese Football Federation), and Fouzi Lekjaa (Royal Moroccan Football Federation).

    The three associations’ presidents have met twice, but this was the first occasion since FIFA’s 2030 World Cup decision was made public.

    Football Federation Presidents from Spain,Portugal and Morocco attending Wednesday’s meeting in Lisbon

    It was determined at the conference, which took place at the FPF headquarters in Cidade do Futebol, to deliver the letter of intent to host the World Cup in October.

    This will be the first formal step towards a joint bid, and will demonstrate the commitment of Morocco, Portugal and Spain to staging a successful World Cup.

    This solemn moment will take place in Rabat and will be followed by a press conference attended by the presidents of the three federations.

    Meanwhile, the 2030 World Cup bid committee continued its work and, also on Wednesday in Madrid, held another project follow-up meeting.

  • Jordaan hopeful  with Morocco co-hosting  successful 2030 FIFA World Cup

    Jordaan hopeful with Morocco co-hosting successful 2030 FIFA World Cup

    Danny Jordaan, the president of the South African Football Association, has expressed his happiness that Morocco will co-host the 2030 World Cup with Spain and Portugal.

    In an interview with the sports programme of the Egyptian channel Al Oula, Danny Jordaan stated that “the World Cup in Morocco is an opportunity for Africa to present this major global event according to the International Football Federation (FIFA), and so when Africa has the opportunity to host the tournament for the second time, it’s a great thing.”

    The South African Football Association President continued, “I expect Morocco to be a great success because the Kingdom of Morocco has a quality infrastructure and a great team that reached the World Cup semifinals in Qatar.”

    Furthermore, he predicted that “this African nation, Morocco, will continue to fight for the right to host the World Cup, and this is a great time for African football.” We want an African team to win the World Cup and wish Morocco the best of luck there.

    South Africa re wrote history as the 1st African nation to host FIFA World Cup tournament in 2010.

  • Grande Stade de Casablanca  may  host 2030 FIFA World Cup Final

    Grande Stade de Casablanca may host 2030 FIFA World Cup Final

    FIFA World Cup finals will be returning to African soil in 2030, exactly two decades since South Africa staged the global football bonanza.

    Morocco has been mandated to host the 2030 finals alongside its Mediterranean neighbours Spain and Portugal, who will share 101 matches, while the three opening fixtures will be held in Paraguay, Uruguay, and Argentina as part of the tournament’s centenary celebrations.

    Before the successful joint host bid for the 2030 FIFA World Cup tournament,Morocco was unsuccessful in its previous five attempt bids in 1994, 1998, 2006, 2010, and 2026.

    Morocco Football Federation (FRMF), which enjoys great support from the royal kingdom government, has already started preparations to welcome the world in 2030 with the construction of an ultramodern stadium, the Grande Stade de Casablanca, an 113,000-seater football venue to a-tune of US 200 million dollars, equivalent to KES 30 billion.

    Aerial view design of the Grande Stade de Casablanca

    Once completed, it will become the largest football stadium in Africa and the second-largest in the world after Barcelona’s Camp Nou, and it is likely to stage the 2030 World Cup final match.

    According to the architect of the iconic stadium, their goal is to create a centre for sports and assembly events that is keenly in tune with the natural environment, geography, and history of the nation of Morocco.

    The average useful life of sports facilities today is only 25–30 years.

    Once complete, the Grand Stade de Casablanca will be used for a variety of events, ranging from local football matches seating 30,000 to regional events of up to 40,000 seats and international sporting events, such as the Africa Cup, of 80,000 seats.

    The architect and team have also designed a 3-tier seating bowl where the majority of the seating (40,000 seats) occurs on the upper deck.

    These upper deck seats will only be used for major events, probably less than five times annually.

    aerial design view of the football pitch of the grande stade de Casablanca

    Since the lower two tiers are smaller and more shallow, the upper bowl is also brought closer to the playing field.

    Morocco, which has in the past played host to major global football tournaments such as the FIFA Club World Cup,Africa Cup of Nations, Africa Nations Championships, and the 2025 AFCON, will no doubt become a continental sports destination.

  • BrighterMonday to be the Career Partner  for Safaricom Hook

    BrighterMonday to be the Career Partner for Safaricom Hook

    BrighterMonday will be the career partner of Safaricom Hook,a new youth platform by Safaricom for the Youth interaction via online platforms.

    The Safaricom Hook platform is an inventive endeavour that aims to empower Kenyan youth in the areas of technology, career development, and culture.

    The platform is a manifestation of Safaricom’s steadfast dedication to the development of the country’s youth, since it allows for the customization of services by using the company’s vast mobile network.

    BrighterMonday, with whom Safaricom has partnered, will offer career insights and ideas that the youngsters of Safaricom Hook can access through the platform.

    caption: Safaricom CEO, Peter Ndegwa, and BrighterMonday Kenya CEO, Chris Otundo, during the launch of the Safaricom Hook Platform at Eldoret Sports Club, Eldoret.

    Chris Otundo, CEO of BrighterMonday, stressed the significance of the partnership and stated that their goal is to empower young people by utilising technology.

    “This partnership is not just about offering opportunities; it’s about creating a lasting connection with the youth and providing them with the resources and mentorship they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world as they enable the youths to seize the limitless career opportunities ahead.” said Otundo

    According to Erick Wilson Wafula, Head of Marketing, BrighterMonday East Africa, this partnership is a game-changer for youth. Together with Safaricom, it will create a bridge to endless opportunities, bringing closer a brighter future for Kenya’s young talents, whose career possibilities are limitless.

    “BrighterMonday is committed to helping young people succeed in the rapidly changing digital world. Along with work chances, this entails offering mentorship, educational resources, and targeted career advice.”said Wafula

    Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa reiterated their commitment  to suport and innovate more youth oriented platforms.

    “At Safaricom, we are keen on helping our young people to leverage the transformative power of technology.

    Through Safaricom Hook, we aim to provide a platform for young Kenyans seeking inspiration, opportunities, and a sense of belonging in a constantly evolving world.

    As the name suggests, Safaricom wants to create a lasting connection with a generation that has unique needs,” said Peter Ndegwa, CEO, Safaricom PLC.

    The way that Generation Z uses technology, pursues professional growth, and engages with all facets of society is about to undergo a change thanks to Safaricom Hook.

    Through this collaboration, both agencies are further demonstrating their unshakable dedication to improving the lives of Kenya’s youth.

    This partnership underscores the unwavering commitment of both organisations to make a profound and lasting difference in the lives of Kenya’s youth.

    Eligible customers, aged 10 to 24, can join the platform via the Safaricom Hook app or by dialling *555#.

  • Kirui and Ng’etich  win Betika na Community Cross Country

    Kirui and Ng’etich win Betika na Community Cross Country

    Budapest World Athletics Championships 5,000m finalist Ishmael Kirui and 10km women’s only  World record holder Agnes Jebet Ng’etich, are the winners of the Betika na Community Kericho Cross Country, held on Sunday morning at the Tea Hotel grounds in Kericho County.

    Kirui won the 10km men’s race, followed by Johana Erot from West Pokot and Edwin Bett from Nakuru in 2nd and 3rd positions, respectively.

    World women-only 10km record-holder Agnes Jebet Ng’etich crosses the line to clinch second place in the Ladies’ 10km race at the Betika na Community Kericho Cross Country event that took place at the Tea Hotel grounds in Kericho.

    The Clouds International Training Camp in Iten’s Jebet, who competes in the women’s 10km division,was the surprise winner in the women’s race followed by Emmaculate Anyango.

    Eric Mwiti(Left), Marketing Manager at Betika and John Wachira(Left), Athletics Kenya South Rift Chairman award Ismael Kirui, winner of the Men’s 10km Category at the 2023 Betika na Community Kericho Cross Country event that took place at the Tea Hotel grounds in Kericho.

    The event attracted 243 runners, 185 men and 85 women, among them competitors from neighbouring countries like Uganda and Eritrea.

    All 10 top finishers in all categories shared a prize kitty of KES 1,350,000 from betting firm Betika through its Betika Na Community initiative.