KBC Channel 1

Author: Dismas Otuke

  • King Mohammed VI give orders in rescue operation following the earthquake tragedy

    King Mohammed VI give orders in rescue operation following the earthquake tragedy

    Following a devastating earthquake that shook the hub of North Africa in the early hours of Saturday, King Mohammed VI of Morocco has announced  urgent measures to expedite rescue operations following a worst earthquake which struck the country on Saturday morning.

    Among the measures taken immediately after the calamity was the directive from King Mohammed VI to the royal armed forces, local authorities, security services, and civil protection units to among other things :

    1.Reinforcing the national blood stock.

    2.supplying drinking water to affected areas.

    3.Distributing food kits, tents, and blankets to the affected population.

    4.Quickly resuming public services.

    King Mohammed VI also directed the Supreme Commander and Chief of General Staff of the Royal Armed Forces (FAR) to urgently deploy significant human and logistical air and land resources, as well as specialised intervention modules based on search and rescue teams and a medical-surgical field hospital.

    Other immediate interventions as per the King’s directive to save lives and speed up rescue operations included:

    1. Immediately set up an inter-ministerial commission in charge of carrying out an emergency rehabilitation and aid programme to reconstruct as soon as possible the destroyed homes in the affected areas.

    2.Provide care to people in distress, notably orphans and vulnerable people.

    3.Provide immediate care to all people who found themselves without shelter  following the earthquake,  in terms of housing, food, and other basic needs.

    4.Encourage economic operators to resume activities in the areas concerned.

    5.Open a special bank account at Treasury and Bank Al Maghrib to receive the voluntary   solidarity contributions of citizens as well as private and public  instructions.

    6.Ensure the full mobilisation of the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity, with all its components, to support citizens in affected areas

    Although the most recent death toll has been released by Morocco’s Interior Ministry, the figure is certain to rise as rescuers continue to explore the wreckage.

    Numerous foreign leaders, including Olaf Scholz, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, Narendra Modi, and Emmanuel Macron, have shown support.

  • Uganda Football Federation signs a $320,000 deal with betPawa to spur football development

    Uganda Football Federation signs a $320,000 deal with betPawa to spur football development

    The Uganda Football Federation (FUFA) and betting firm betPawa have signed a partnership aimed at reshaping the landscape of Ugandan football.

    The partnership worth Ushs 1.18 billion (about $320,000) signifies a shared commitment to nurturing local talent, enriching the fan experience, and uplifting football standards throughout Uganda.

    Ntoudi Mouyelo, Managing Director at Mchezo Africa, which owns betPawa, expressed his excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to collaborate with FUFA in accelerating the growth of Ugandan football.

    This partnership is a significant investment in our local players and teams, and together, we can enhance the experience for fans and players alike. We are creating more opportunities for all those involved in Ugandan football.”

    The signing ceremony for this transformative partnership will mark the official launch of three sponsored properties for the FUFA 23/24 season: FUFA Drum, the betPawa BIG League, and the betPawa Futsal League.

    FUFA President Moses Hassim Magogo echoed these sentiments, saying, “This partnership marks a pivotal moment for Ugandan football. It is more than just financial support; it is a firm pledge to the future of our beloved sport, a promise to double down on our shared vision for progress.”

    The overarching goals of this partnership are manifold: to nurture and cultivate more careers within Ugandan football, to activate and bolster existing fan bases while expanding their reach nationwide, and to motivate players with the Locker Room Bonus.

    “Under this partnership, we are introducing the Locker Room Bonus, which offers players fast and direct benefits. The players who make the squad list per match will get cash tokens sent to their phones after the game if their team wins. We are setting aside 25% of the value of this partnership towards this LRB,” explained Mouyelo on his part.

    The partnership represents a remarkable fusion of sports, business, and community development. As BetPawa and FUFA combine their strengths, they are poised to inscribe a new chapter in the annals of Ugandan football history, with the ultimate objective of establishing Uganda as a footballing powerhouse on the African continent.

    Benefits under futsal competition will include awards for MVP of the season, best goalkeeper, coach, player of the season, most assists, and young player of the season.

    Similar award categories, supported by betPawa, will be given out in the Big League, as well as an overall token for the league’s winning team, which is among the four clubs that earn a promotion to the country’s top-tier league at the end of each season.

  • Super 8 Football League to return in 2024

    Super 8 Football League to return in 2024

    Extreme Sports Limited, has announced the return of the Super 8 football League   in 2024 after taking a break as a result of the Covid 19 pandemic.

    Hussein Mohammed, the founder of the league and Extreme Sports Limited’s chief executive officer, made the announcement on Friday, September 8th, in Nairobi, during the celebration of 20 years since the league was launched.

    “We are looking forward to expanding the potential of having more partners in the game and increasing the value of the tournament, as well as having a wider community outreach through the game. We want to see the players have a sense of belonging in conjunction with the fans,” said Hussein.

    As part of the 20-year celebration, both the Super 8 Premier and Division 1 clubs were appreciated for their gallant and exceptional performances through the corporate support of Fly Skyward Express and Garane & Somane Advocates, who donated a prize kitty of Ksh1.2 million.

    Top honors in the Super 8 Premier League went to Melta Kabiria, who were the Super 8 Premier League winners, while Githurai All Stars and Technical University of Kenya (TUK) were the 1st and 2nd runners-up, respectively.

    Super 8 Division 1 saw Leads United scoop the top honors as the winners of the league, while the 1st runners-up prize went to Deportivo of Ongata Rongai.

    “As we look back on two decades of breathtaking action and look forward to the future, it’s a moment to appreciate the memories, the friendships formed, and the unforgettable experiences that have made Super 8 an integral part of Kenya’s sports history. Cheers to 20 years, and here’s to many more thrilling moments to come,” Hussein added.

    Some players who started their careers at the Super 8 are former Harambee stars Captain Victor Wanyama, Gor Mahia FC goalkeeper trainer Bonface Oluoch, former Gor Mahia winger Innocent Mutiso, Tuskers’s Brian Bwire, and AFC Leoprads duo Kayci Odhiambo and Lewis Bandi.

    “We are thrilled by our partnership with the Super 8 League and look forward to having a long journey with the league in the promotion and development of grassroots football as a long-term way in which we jointly help in molding great talents, open up avenues for them to explore their potential, and in the process build a great society,” said Mohammed Omar of Fly Skyward Express.

    Among others who spoke during the event and congratulated Hussein for the exemplary work he has done over the past two decades were EALA MP Hon. Hassan Omar Hassan, Dagorreti South MP Hon.John Kiarie, and Director of Marketing and Sales Jubilee Holding Caroline Ndungu.

  • USA supports Morocco autonomous plan

    USA supports Morocco autonomous plan

    Joshua Harris, the US’s Deputy Assistant Secretary for North Africa, has reaffirmed his nation’s support for the autonomy proposal as a “serious, credible, and realistic” way to resolve the Sahara conflict.

    After Mr. Harris’ meetings with Nasser Bourita, Minister of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates, the US Embassy in Rabat issued a press release stating that the US “continues to view Morocco’s Autonomy Plan as serious, credible, and realistic.”

    Furthermore, the senior US official “reaffirmed the deep and historic partnership between the United States and Morocco” while being joined by Puneet Talwar, his country’s ambassador to Morocco.

    Joshua Harris, whose trip to Rabat is a part of one to “Morocco and Algeria,” also emphasised US gratitude for Morocco’s critical efforts.

    Joshua Harris, whose trip to Rabat is part of a regional tour of “Morocco and Algeria,” also emphasised US gratitude for Morocco’s significant contributions to a number of regional and international issues, such as addressing Sahel instability, supporting the elections in Libya, and promoting equal freedom, security, and prosperity for Israelis and Palestinians.

  • Tanzania coach Amrouche laments mistreatment by their host, Algeria

    Tanzania coach Amrouche laments mistreatment by their host, Algeria

    Adel Amrouche, the head coach of the Tanzanian football team, accused Algeria of mistreating his squad upon arrival  in Annaba on Tuesday.

    Tanzania landed in Annaba on Tuesday from Tabarka (Tunisia), where the squad had been practicing for the last group F match against Desert Foxes on Thursday night.

    Speaking to the media after the squad’s final practice before playing Algeria, Amrouche accused the Algerian Football Federation (FAF) of abandoning his team on the Algerian-Tunisian border.

    Amrouche placed all responsibility for the situation on FAF General Secretary Mounir Debbichi, who is in control of Algerian football issues following the departure of President Djahid Zefizef.

    “The general secretary doesn’t pick up the phone. The same holds true for his subordinate. It’s unfortunate since at the border we were left on our own for eight hours.

    Amrouche, incensed, said, “The bus that was meant to transport us back to Annaba didn’t come on time.

    The Taifa Stars coach also addressed the debate about the condition of the fields, expressing shock at how run-down the stadium is.

    It’s unfortunate that a large nation like Algeria is always discussing this issue, he remarked.

    With 7 points from 5 games, Tanzania is in second place in the group and, with a draw against the already-qualified North Africans, would be the lone East African representative at the 2024 AFCON finals in Ivory Coast.

  • Dalbit International receives a $35 million boost from Bank One

    Dalbit International receives a $35 million boost from Bank One

    Dalbit International Limited has received a USD 35 million trade financial package from Bank One Limited of Mauritius, to be channeled towards bolstering  Dalbit’s working capital and supports the trading of refined petroleum products across East and Southern Africa.

    Speaking during the signing ceremony, JCG Chief Treasury and Investment Officer, Divya Bagrecha said it was a milestone as Dalbit targets to stamp it authority as the leading and reliable supplier of refined petroleum products across the African continent.

    The milestone was marked by an official signing ceremony at the bank, attended by senior representatives from Dalbit International Limited, including JCG Board Director Kevin Teeroovengadum and JCG Chief Financial Officer Sachin Jain, as well as Pankaj Dalal Financial Controller at Bank One, alongside Mark Watkinson, CEO at Bank One, and Thavin Audit, Acting Head of International Banking at Bank One.

    Standing L-R: Pankaj Bajaj, Financial Controller at Dalbit International; Thavin Audit, Acting Head of International Banking at Bank One; Pankaj Dalal Financial Controller Bank One.
    Seated L-R: Kevin Teeroovengadum, JCG Board Director; Mark Watkinson, CEO at Bank One; Divya Bagrecha, JCG Chief Treasury and Investment Officer; Sachin Jain JCG Chief Financial Officer

    Dalbit International Limited, a market leader and one of the most well-known regional brands in Africa, is a member of the Janus Continental Group (JCG).

    It is involved in the acquisition, trading, shipping, and management of petroleum products in both the East and Southern African markets.

    The company presently sells a variety of petroleum products, such as Premium Motor Spirit, Gasoil, Kerosene, Jet A1, Fuel Oil, and lubricants and  continues to invest in capital projects to address forthcoming issues, seize new possibilities, and keep up with market trends.

  • Morocco appointed Sectoral Dialogue Partner by Association of Southeast Asian Nations

    Morocco appointed Sectoral Dialogue Partner by Association of Southeast Asian Nations

    Morocco received the designation of “Sectoral Dialogue Partner” on Monday in Jakarta from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), according to a news statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation, and Moroccan Expatriates.

    According to the same source, Morocco becomes the first nation in North Africa to be granted this status, solidifying its position as a preferred interlocutor in this highly significant geopolitical and economic alliance.

    The appointment consolidates HM King Mohammed VI’s vision regarding the diversification of partnerships and its opening to new geopolitical blocks,” and “it also constitutes a recognition by this grouping of the role of Morocco, under the Sovereign’s leadership, as a hub of regional cooperation.”

    Morocco becomes the first North African country to obtain this status, thus consolidating its position as a privileged interlocutor in this geopolitical and economic grouping of great importance.

    The status “consolidates HM King Mohammed VI’s vision regarding the diversification of partnerships and its opening to new geopolitical blocks,” and “reflects the momentum of partnerships between Morocco and the countries of South East Asia.”

    It also “constitutes a recognition by this grouping of the role of Morocco, under the leadership of the Sovereign, as a hub of stability in Africa and the Arab world.”

    During the 56th Meeting of ASEAN Foreign Ministers, which took place on July 11 and 12, 2023, in Jakarta, it was revealed that Morocco has reached an agreement in principle to get the designation of “Sectoral Dialogue Partner.”

    It was decided to accord South Africa and the United Arab Emirates the same status at that summit.

  • ‘Soma na Glo’ initiative to decongest schools in Dagoreti North

    ‘Soma na Glo’ initiative to decongest schools in Dagoreti North

    Nominated Senator Gloria Orwoba has launched a Soma na Glo initiative aimed at decongestanting primary schools with Dagoreti North constituency.

    In its inaugural phase which was launched on Monday,55 students from various schools in Dagoreti North were relocated to Kileleshwa Primary which has a potential capacity of more than 2000 students.

    This comes as schools reopened for 3rd term as many schools within the constituency are grappling with excess students and lack of learning materials.

    Senator Gloria Orwoba pose for a photo with students during the launch of Soma na Glo initiative

    Neighbouring schools in Kawangware,Kabiro and Gatina,are currently congested with majority if class rooms accomodating over 150 students per classroom.

    Under the programme students from Congo Estate in Kawangware will be transported to and from Kileleshwa Primary on daily basis for learning.

    The Senator will cover among other things transportation costs,uniforms, admission fees, and procurement of desks for learners.

    Soma na Glo initiative will ensure students are well-equipped for a successful transition and educational journey in schools

  • Princess Lalla Hasnaa receives the children of Al-Quds in 14th summer camps

    Princess Lalla Hasnaa receives the children of Al-Quds in 14th summer camps

    Princess Lalla Hasnaa, received on Saturday at the Palais des Hôtes in Rabat, the children of Al-Quds who have taken part in the 14th edition of the summer camps organized by the Bayt Mal Al-Qods Asharif Age Placed under the High Patronage of HM King Mohammed VI, Chairman of the Al-Quds Committee, this Bayt Mal Al-Quds initiative reflects the constant support of HM the King for the Holy City and its inhabitants.

    It strengthens the work of the Bayt Mal Al-Quds Agency, which is dedicated to supporting the Holy City of Al-Quds and its inhabitants through multiple projects that have a significant impact on the population of the Holy City, particularly women, children and people in difficult circumstances.

    Since its launch in 2008, the Bayt Mal Al-Quds Agency’s summer camp program, now in its 14th year, has seen a total of 700 children from various districts of the Holy City, accompanied by 70 supervisors, visit different regions of the Kingdom and see for themselves the strength of Moroccans’ solidarity with the Palestinians.

    Dubbed the “Green March”, this year’s event, which ran from August 10 to 26, benefited, as in previous editions, children (girls and boys) from the city of Al-Quds aged 11 to 14, accompanied by supervisors from the Holy City.

    On this occasion, Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Hasnaa posed for a souvenir photo with the Maqdessis children taking part in this summer camp and their supervisors.

    Princess Lalla Hasnaa met the youngsters of Al-Quds who had participated in the 14th edition of the summer camps organized by the Bayt Mal Al-Qods Asharif Agency on Saturday at the Palais des Hôtes in Rabat.

    Under the High Patronage of HM King Mohammed VI, Chairman of the Al-Quds Committee, this Bayt Mal Al-Quds initiative symbolizes the King’s unwavering support for the Holy City and its citizens.

    It strengthens the work of the Bayt Mal Al-Quds Agency, which is dedicated to assisting the Holy City of Al-Quds and its inhabitants through a variety of programs that have a substantial influence on the Holy City’s population, notably women, children, and persons in difficult circumstances.

    The 14th year of the Bayt Mal Al-Quds Agency’s summer camp program has seen 700 youngsters from various neighborhoods of the Holy City, accompanied by 70 supervisors, travel different regions of the Kingdom and witness the power of Moroccan solidarity with the Palestinians.

    The “Green March,” which took place from August 10 to 26, benefited, as in previous years, children (girls and boys) from Al-Quds aged 11 to 14, escorted by Holy City supervisors.

    On this occasion, Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Hasnaa posed for a souvenir photo with the Maqdessis youngsters attending this summer camp and their supervisors.

  • Launch of the Food Systems Transformation to enhance food security in Kenya

    Launch of the Food Systems Transformation to enhance food security in Kenya

    Food insecurity and a dysfunctional food system in the country are major threats to both the growth of the country’s economy and the full potential of the work force in the country, which is rated among the best not only in Africa but globally.

    To help the government combat food insecurity in the country, the Partnership for African Social and Governance Research (PASGR) with the support of the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) has launched the Food Systems Transformation (FST) project, which, among other roles, will contribute to the strengthening of equitable, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable food systems through enhancing capacity for policy engagement.

    Workshop attendees

    FST was launched on Friday in Nairobi during a one-day workshop that was attended by over 50 participants from the agricultural sector. Another key step in the right direction is the Utafiti Sera Framework, which will mobilize support from key stakeholders for the establishment of a comprehensive national food systems policy equipped with a robust regulatory framework to ensure effective implementation.

    “”Embracing PASGR’s Utafitisera model, the FST project aims to foster vibrant communities of practice. These communities will co-create evidence, and drive inclusive, transformative changes in our food systems policies.” said   Acting Executive Director  Dr.
    PaulineNgimwa

    The aim of the workshop, using PASGR’s flagship Utafiti Sera Framework, was to draw on existing evidence on food systems in Kenya and stakeholder engagements to support existing evidence-policy pathways towards the realization of affordable, high-quality, safe, and nutritious foods.

    The workshop’s main objective is to offer stakeholders a thorough overview of the foundational principles driving Utafiti Sera House’s approach, which revolves around the pursuit of equitable, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable food systems.

    “‘Empowerment starts with inclusion. By amplifying community voices in decision and policy-making, we pave the way for more effective, people-centered solutions.”said Prof Ruth Oniangó

    Prof Ruth Oniang’o Founder and Editor in Chief of the African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development addressing the workshop

    Food systems are the lifeblood of our nation’s sustenance, intricately woven from production to consumption and entwined with health, economy, ecosystems, and climate.

    The workshop also served as a platform for the formal launch of the FST Utafiti Sera House, an initiative that aspires to create impactful change within Kenya’s food landscape.

    The project will harness PASGR’s flagship Utafiti Sera Framework and existing evidence to spearhead a movement towards equitable, resilient, and sustainable food systems.

    Some Workshop Attendees

    Food insecurity remains an enduring and pressing challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa, and Kenya is no exception.

    The workshop aimed at  to achieving  the following outcomes:

    1. Increased awareness and understanding of the food Systems Transformation among Stakeholders and the public.
    2. Formation of new partnerships and collaboration to support the transformation of food systems to make them more equitable, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.

    Commitment from key stakeholders to actively participate in co-creating policy options to transform food systems.

    Dr. Steve Akoth, Policy Expert.

    “Many African policies rely on informed rather than evidence-based decisions. Evidence, though vital, takes a back seat to political priorities, patronage, and other interests. Let’s advocate for a data-driven approach that truly serves the people.” said  Dr. Steve Akoth, Policy Expert.

    Achieve uptake of policy initiatives arising from considerations of evidence.
    Strengthened stakeholder capacities in accessing and appropriating research evidence for policy and practice.

    Keynote speakers during the workshop included Prof.Ruth Oniangó, Founder and Editor in Chief of the African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition, and Development; Dr. Pauline Ngimwa, Acting Executive Director, PASGR; Prof. Remi E. Ayiede, Research and Policy Uptake Lead, PASGR; and Mr. Patrick Odame, Acting Executive Director, CABE, among others.