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Author: KBC Digital

  • Vybz Kartel Freed After Successful Appeal

    Vybz Kartel Freed After Successful Appeal

    In a landmark decision, the Jamaican Court of Appeal declined on Wednesday to retry dancehall artist Vybz Kartel, following the overturning of his 2014 murder conviction earlier this year.

    This ruling effectively grants Kartel freedom after spending a decade in prison.

    The pivotal decision in March came from the United Kingdom-based Privy Council, which annulled Kartel’s conviction in the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams.

    The council also identified juror misconduct during Kartel’s initial trial as the primary reason for overturning the conviction.

    Despite overturning the conviction, it deferred to a three-judge panel in Jamaica to determine whether a retrial was warranted.

    On Wednesday, the Jamaican Court of Appeal concluded that “the interests of justice do not require a new trial to be ordered,” according to a report by the Jamaica Observer.

    Kartel and three co-defendants had been convicted on March 14, 2014, after a trial lasting over two months.

    Prosecutors alleged that Williams was murdered over missing firearms and that Kartel had enticed Williams to his home, where he was subsequently beaten to death.

    During the trial, Jamaican police testified that they found a text message on Kartel’s phone suggesting Williams’ body had been dismembered and disposed of. Notably, Williams’ body was never recovered.

    A significant aspect of Kartel’s appeal centred on allegations of juror misconduct – one juror was accused of attempting to bribe others.

    Despite these serious allegations, the trial judge proceeded with the trial instead of declaring a mistrial, an action that became the focal point of Kartel’s prolonged appeals process.

    At the time of his conviction, Kartel was one of Jamaica’s most prominent artists, known for collaborations with international stars such as Rihanna, Missy Elliott, Busta Rhymes, and Pitbull.

    Remarkably, Kartel continued to produce music while incarcerated, including the 2016 single “Fever.”

  • Linda Mama program here to stay – Tessie Mudavadi

    Linda Mama program here to stay – Tessie Mudavadi

    There are no plans to scrap the expanded free maternal care, Linda Mama Boresha Jamii health programme. Instead, the government intends to make it more efficient under the Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF).

    Prime Cabinet Secretary’s spouse Tessie Mudavadi assured Kenyans and mothers in particular that, under SHIF, efficiency and accountability would be enhanced adding that disbursement of the free maternity money will be made timelier.

    Mrs. Mudavadi, who was speaking at the Marsabit County referral hospital when she handed over 13 state-of-the-art neonatal incubators to six counties in the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) region, asked Kenyans to be optimistic about President William Ruto’s promise for need-driven universal health care in the country.

    She noted that under SHIF, efficiency and accountability would be enhanced while disbursement of the free maternity money will be made timelier and urged Marsabit residents to register for the scheme

    The incubators valued at over Ksh 11.5 million donated under the Okoa Malaika preterm aid programme went to Marsabit which received three while the other five counties of Samburu, Garissa, Turkana, Wajir and Mandera got two baby incubators each.

    She said the activities of Okoa Malaika were aligned with the government’s vision 2030 development plan which also aims at alleviating poverty and reducing inequalities in the country.

    Mrs Mudavadi decried the high maternal and neo-natal mortality rate in the northern part of the country saying measures to reverse the trend were necessary.

    Tessie who was accompanied by county first ladies from the benefiting devolved units including the host Alamitu Jattani added that the organization majored on infant pre-term mitigation interventions by distributing neo-natal equipment to hospitals in Kenya in order to ensure the well-being of mother and child.

    “The Okoa Malaika program aligns itself with our government’s efforts to reduce infant mortality rates by ensuring a vibrant health sector under the universal health care” she said.

    At the same time, Mrs Mudavadi asked local communities to heed advice against retrogressive customary practices that could negate gains being made towards provision of essential health care and services.

    She noted that such beliefs and perceptions were making members of the affected communities to shy away from seeking modern medical interventions hence leading to avoidable loss of lives especially among the young and vulnerable groups in society.

    “As much as the government respects the cultural practices of the local communities not only here in Marsabit but across the country I would advise against those found harmful and retrogressive” she remarked.

    Her sentiments were echoed by Marsabit county first lady Ms Jattani who blamed the infant mortality late in Marsabit which stands at 23/1000 to failure by local communities to shun outdated and unsafe cultural practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM) and early marriages.

    She pointed out that teenage pregnancies contributes to 29 per cent of maternal and neonatal deaths in the county and urged locals to say no to the regressive practice.

    Samburu County first lady Beverlyne Lelelit commended Okoa Malaika for the donation saying the incubators added to the list of the much needed medical equipment that are critical in the provision of quality health care and services.

    The distribution of the baby incubators to the ASAL counties brings to 16 the number of devolved units countrywide that have benefitted with the equipment from Okoa Malaika, an off-shoot of the Mudavadi memorial Foundation.

  • Families of 148 Garissa Uni. attack victims to receive Ksh3M compensation each

    Families of 148 Garissa Uni. attack victims to receive Ksh3M compensation each

    A three-judge bench has ordered the State to pay Ksh3 million as compensation to the families of each of the 148 deceased victims of the 2015 Garissa University College attack.

    Delivering the judgment at Milimani High Court, Justices Antony Ndung’u, Mugure Thande, and Daniel Kemei also ruled that the 14 petitioners who sustained various injuries be awarded between Ksh1.2 million and Ksh10 million each, depending on the extent of their injuries.

    On the morning of April 2, 2015, gunmen stormed Garissa University College, resulting in a devastating attack that claimed the lives of 148 individuals, including students, soldiers, police officers, and university guards.

    Additionally, 79 others were injured in the massacre. Among the deceased were 142 students, three members of the security forces, and three university guards.

    In 2019, three men were found guilty of charges related to the attack.

    Rashid Charles Mberesero, Mohamed Ali Abikar, and Hassan Edin Hassan were convicted of conspiracy to commit the attack and for being members of Somalia’s al-Shabab Islamist militant group.

    A fourth man, Sahal Diriye Hussein, was acquitted of the charges. All four men are Kenyan nationals, except for Rashid Charles Mberesero, who is Tanzanian.

    The ruling marks a significant moment in the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families, as the court acknowledges the profound impact of the attack and the state’s responsibility to compensate those affected.

    The compensation awarded is expected to provide some relief and support to the families and survivors as they continue to cope with the aftermath of the tragedy.

  • Court dismisses CoG pension scheme for retiring governors, deputies

    Court dismisses CoG pension scheme for retiring governors, deputies

    The high court has ruled that retiring governors and deputy governors at the county level are not entitled to a Defined Benefit Pension Scheme similar to one enjoyed by State officers at the national government level.

    This judgement follows Petition No. E272 of 2022, that had been filed by the Council of Governors (COG) against the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC), and determined by Judge L. N. Mugambi, on 25 July 2024, at Milimani Court, Nairobi.

    According to a statement by SRC, the proposed Defined Benefit Pension Scheme for governors and deputy governors is neither affordable nor fiscally sustainable.

    “If implemented, the proposed scheme would have had a ripple effect on all State officers at both the national and county government levels, leaving little resources for development and service delivery.” SRC said.

    Further, the proposed scheme for governors and deputies governors would have been burdensome to the successor governments and generations that must bear the burden of underwriting the cost of a lifetime benefit when the option of gratuity already provides adequate social security.

    Additionally, SRC says this would also have meant that each turnover of a governor and deputy governor during each election period would have added to the pool of freshly elected individuals eligible for lifetime pension benefits, hence, straining the public finances.

    The salaries commission says, though governors and deputy governors are State officers, it is not automatic that each State officer must be treated in the same way regarding retirement benefits.

    “There are peculiarities of the positions, and constitutional and statutory principles that guide such benefits, as determined by SRC under Article 230 of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010, and SRC Act, 2011.” Read the statement.

    Therefore, SRC avers that governors and deputy governors are paid a service gratuity at the end of their terms at the rate of 31 per cent of annual basic pay for every year served. Should they desire, an additional option also exists for governors and deputy governors to opt to join a direct contributory benefit scheme.

     

     

     

     

  • Taiwan launches 2024 ‘Go Green With Taiwan’ global proposal contest

    Taiwan launches 2024 ‘Go Green With Taiwan’ global proposal contest

    In response to the global trend of developing green energy and sustainable economies, Taiwan has launched the Go Green with Taiwan campaign proposal contest.

    The initiative is open to participants from around the world to showcase their creativity, combining Taiwan’s sustainable green products and solutions to promote international cooperation in sustainable development.

    The “Go Green with Taiwan” contest by Taiwan International Trade Administration (TITA) and the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) is crafted as an important gateway for international partners to understand Taiwan’s path to sustainability.

    It promotes the most comprehensive and innovative green products and solutions from Taiwan and invites international partners to join hands with Taiwan in driving economic and environmentally sustainable transformation.

    The top three proposals will each receive a prize of $20,000 (USD).

    James Huang, Chairman of TAITRA, emphasized the resilience of Taiwan’s industries, which have consistently created miracles, from the era of the Four Asian Tigers to becoming a smart island amidst the AI wave.

    “Taiwan has now become a key hub in the “global democratic supply chain. TAITRA, acting as a robust support for SMEs going international, integrates top domestic institutions and media resources globally” Huang noted.

    The contest is open for submissions on the official website at https://go-green.growthpad.co.ke/ from now until August 31, 2024.

    Taiwan’s green industry continues to rise, becoming the best international partner for green energy cooperation in areas such as energy and storage, energy conservation, low-carbon transportation, green materials, environmental protection equipment, and circular economy.

    Cynthia Kiang, Director-General of TITA, stated that Taiwan’s green industry boasts advanced technology, abundant hardware and software resources, a comprehensive R&D environment, and highly skilled technical talent.

    “Taiwan can produce stable and high-value-added green materials and related products, making it an indispensable partner for the international development of green energy and a sustainable economy” she says.

    EXPLAINER: Highlights of Taiwan’s Green Industry Achievements

    • Delta Electronics: A global leader in energy management systems, Delta has implemented EV-friendly infrastructure in its offices worldwide. Utilizing the DeltaGrid® EVM as the core charging management system and employing AI to analyze daily usage data, Delta optimizes long-term energy scheduling. This solution has reduced the total energy costs at Delta’s European headquarters by 15.64% and is applicable to various settings, including shopping mall parking lots, residential areas, and office buildings.
    • Fukuta Electric & Machinery Co.: Partnering with Tesla, Fukuta has reduced the weight of electric vehicle motors from 400 kg to less than 60 kg, meeting diverse manufacturing needs. The collaboration has expanded to brands like Mazda, using lightweight technology to enhance market competitiveness.
    • Tron-e Technology Co.: Seizing the opportunity of global government initiatives to replace electric buses, Tron-e has formed strategic alliances in Southeast Asia and India. By focusing on core components and outsourcing vehicle manufacturing to local factories, Tron-e produces 200 electric buses annually, with over 50% manufactured by external factories. They aim to advance autonomous driving technology and continue expanding into overseas markets.
    • Acer’s Aspire Vero: Launched in 2021, Acer’s first eco-friendly laptop uses post-consumer recycled plastic (PCR) and ocean-bound plastic (OBP). The laptop’s body contains 30-40% PCR plastic, and the touchpad is made of 100% OBP. Packaging materials are made from up to 90% recycled paper, with a design facilitating easy repair and upgrades, extending its lifespan and promoting a circular economy.

    Taiwan’s green industry continues to rise, becoming the best international partner for green energy cooperation in areas such as energy and storage, energy conservation, low-carbon transportation, green materials, environmental protection equipment, and circular economy.

    Cynthia Kiang, Director-General of TITA, stated that Taiwan’s green industry boasts advanced technology, abundant hardware and software resources, a comprehensive R&D environment, and highly skilled technical talent.

    “Taiwan can produce stable and high-value-added green materials and related products, making it an indispensable partner for the international development of green energy and a sustainable economy” she says.

     

     

  • Elsa, Arap Uria, Bolo, Mwangi Muthoni named visionary TikTok voices

    Elsa, Arap Uria, Bolo, Mwangi Muthoni named visionary TikTok voices

    Four Kenyans have made it to TikTok’s first-ever Visionary African Voices list aimed at celebrating the creative journey of African creators.

    The Kenya nominees include Elsa Majimbo, Arap Uria, Mwangi Muthoni and Bolo Bespoke.

    Speaking about the initiative TikTok said, “Visionary Voices Africa list, honours 15 phenomenal individuals who are at the forefront of industry-shifting innovation, viral trends elevating African music, transforming entertainment spaces, and cultural representation.

    “These trailblazers are not only making waves on TikTok but also inspiring change and innovation beyond the platform.

    “This July, and year-round, we’re celebrating African visionaries and amplifying the boundless impact of the African creator community.”

    The four are among 15 chosen from three categories – creators, small-owned businesses, and industry disruptors.

    Each category is meant to highlight individuals who are reimagining African culture in unique ways, using TikTok to educate, entertain and advocate for the African community.

    What makes the four exceptional?

    Creators

    Elsa Majimbo – According to Tiktok, she stands out because of her satirical monologues which feature “potato chips, a laid-back mood, and tiny 1990s sunglasses”.

    Elsa’s hilarious style shot her into global stardom. She now “works as a full-time content creator sharing entertaining story time videos and a fashionista adored by stars like Beyoncé.”

    Arap Uria – “With 1.5 million followers and 5.6 million views, he is a sports content creator who combines a love for sports with creativity to entertain and educate. He’s your go-to influencer and content creator for all things sports.”

    Small-Owned Businesses

    Mwangi Muthoni – “the genius behind Dreadlocks Nairobi, has transformed his salon into Kenya’s hot spot for natural dreadlocks. With his flair for style and passion for locks, Mwangi makes sure every client leaves looking fabulous.”

    Bolo Bespoke -As a fashion designer he uses TikTok to showcase his unique designs and the vivacious culture of his fashion house, Bespoke City.

    “Having styled many Kenyan celebrities, such as Prince Indah, Bolo has become a TikTok sensation and a standout figure in the fashion scene.”

  • Megan Thee Stallion performs at Kamala Harris rally

    Megan Thee Stallion performs at Kamala Harris rally

    US star Megan Thee Stallion asked the crowd to make some noise for “our future president” as she performed a mash-up of hits during a Kamala Harris rally in Atlanta.

    Vice President Ms Harris held her first rally as the presumed Democratic presidential nominee after Joe Biden announced he was stepping down from the presidential race – endorsing Ms Harris to compete against Republican candidate Donald Trump.

    Grammy-winning rapper Megan Thee Stallion opened the event with a choreographed set wearing a royal blue pantsuit matching her dancers, performing a medley of hits including Girls In The Hood, Mamushi and Savage.

    Introducing a track titled Body, she said: “Now I know my ladies in the crowd love their bodies. And if you want to keep loving your bodies, you know who to vote for,” referencing abortion rights after the US Supreme Court overturned Roe v Wade in 2022.

    “We about to make history with the first female president, the first black female president, let’s get this done hotties.

    “Hotties for Harris,” she said, seemingly referencing her 2021 compilation album titled Something For Thee Hotties.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/C-ELbWxR6U3/?hl=en

    Meanwhile Georgia-born rapper Quavo also appeared on stage in support of Ms Harris, speaking about gun violence.

    In 2022, he launched the Rocket Foundation after his nephew and Migos group member Takeoff was shot and killed.

    “One of the issues I care about is resolving the gun violence issue,” the 33-year-old told the crowd.

    “You can’t understand the struggles of gun violence if you’re not in the field or in the heart of it. So one thing I learned about working with Vice President Harris is she always stands on business.

    “From inviting me to the White House last year to discuss these solutions, to passing the biggest gun safety laws today.

    “So it’s only right in the birthplace of the culture, it’s also the same place that launched the first African-American woman to run for president. We’re changing the culture again.

    “So if you never voted before, make sure you get out and vote right now because it’s the real one. And in the words of my brother Takeoff, let me get a Kamala.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/C-EQydZs2d1/?hl=en&img_index=1

    During her speech, Ms Harris taunted former president Mr Trump to meet her on a debate stage before the November 5 election.

    “He won’t debate, but he and his running mate sure seem to have a lot to say about me,” she said.

    “Well, Donald, I do hope you’ll reconsider to meet me on the debate stage because, as the saying goes, if you have got something to say, say it to my face.”

    Ms Harris also noted the importance of Atlanta in her speech.

    “I am very clear: The path to the White House runs right through this state and you all helped us win in 2020 and we are going to do it again in 2024. Yes we will.”

  • All aboard – Kenyan Marines getting into Ship-shape

    All aboard – Kenyan Marines getting into Ship-shape

    The Kenyan Marine Commando Unit (KMCU) has taken part in action-packed training exercises delivered by the UK Royal Marines, as part of a visit to Kenya by HMS LANCASTER, a British Royal Navy Frigate.

    After Royal Marines from 42 Commando delivered training and practical demonstrations, Kenyan Marines-in-the-making took on the challenge of completing visit, board, search, and seizure exercises – tactics frequently used to counter piracy, terrorism, and smuggling.

    These exercises are in addition to the basic training that the KMCU receive and show the UK and Kenya’s continued commitment to build a strong, capable, and adaptable Kenya Defence Forces as an anchor of regional stability and security.

    The creation of the KMCU is a five-year partnership between the UK and Kenya to establish a self-sustaining training cycle through which the Kenyan Navy will be able to train their own Marine Commandos.

    The KMCU made history in May 2023 when the first-ever cohort of Kenyan Marines completed a rigorous training programme which largely mirrors that undertaken by the Royal Marines.

    The US Military have also played an integral role in the creation of the KCMU by ensuring this specialist and formidable force are equipped to the highest standard.

    British High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, said:

    “It’s fantastic to see that the UK and Kenya have taken advantage of this opportunity to add serious value to the Kenyan Marines training programme – a great example of how our security partnership is making a real difference to Kenya’s military capacity and capability. Together, we’re going far – making Kenya, the UK, and the region safer and more secure,”

    On his part, Commander Chris Sharp Royal Navy, Commanding Officer HMS Lancaster (Port) noted that; “HMS Lancaster’s visit to Kenya is a fantastic opportunity for Lancaster’s Royal Marines to train and exercise boarding operations with the Kenyan Marine Commando Unit, contributing to the UK and Kenya’s joint commitment to improve regional stability and security,”

    HMS LANCASTER visited the Port of Mombasa for a short operational break from patrols and as part of Combined Task Force 150, where it has recently conducted drug busts and completed other maritime security serials.

    It will then return to her long-standing presence in the Gulf region, focussed on promoting peace and stability. Her visit to Mombasa provides an opportunity to demonstrate the close, historic relationship between the UK and Kenyan Armed Forces.

    The UK-Kenya Strategic Partnership is an ambitious five-year agreement delivering mutual benefits for the UK and Kenya and keeping our people safe; it is underpinned by the Defence Cooperation Agreement that provides the framework for this training programme.

  • Google wildfire boundary tracker now available in Kenya

    Google wildfire boundary tracker now available in Kenya

    Kenya is among seventeen countries where Google has activated its Wildfire Boundary Tracker which is designed to help communities respond faster to wildfires threat.

    The firm says the Artificial Intelligence-powered tool provides accurate and up-to-date information on wildfire boundaries directly in Google Search and Maps.

    “We are committed to using technology to help people stay safe during natural disasters. By expanding our wildfire boundary tracker, we hope to empower communities with the information they need to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Yossi Matias, Vice President and Head of Google Research.

    The expansion comes as the world experiences a surge in wildfires, with countries across Europe and Africa particularly affected.

    By leveraging advanced AI technology, Google says the wildfire tracking model analyses satellite imagery and other data sources to deliver precise and reliable information on the spread of wildfires.

    In Kenya alone, fires have contributed to 0.60pc of tree cover loss between 2001 and 2023.

    According to Global Forest Watch, there have been 341 high-confidence fire alerts reported so far in Kenya in 2024.

    Google’s wildfire boundary tracker sends informative alerts to people in affected areas, offering essential safety tips and guidance.

    To cater to diverse populations, the tool supports multiple languages and is designed to complement existing emergency response efforts, providing an additional layer of protection for at-risk communities.

    This expansion includes Kenya, Andorra, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Monaco, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Portugal, Rwanda, Slovenia, Spain, and Turkey.

  • Pharmacy and Poisons Board banking on technology in war on counterfeit medical products

    Pharmacy and Poisons Board banking on technology in war on counterfeit medical products

    The Pharmacy and Poisons Board has adopted new technology as it moves to ensure medical products and commodities entering the country meet quality standards.

    To realize the goal, the board has acquired advanced Near Infrared (NIR) technology, the Pillscan, to strengthen its efforts in safeguarding drug quality.

    Provided by the Mission of Essential Medicines and Supplies, the equipment will be used for on-site screening of medical products at PPB regional offices and key entry points.

    The NIR technology is expected to enhance the detection of sub-standard and falsified medical products further complementing PPB’s existing quality control measures.

    According to the board, by incorporating NIR technology into its operations, the PPB aims to bolster its surveillance of the Kenyan pharmaceutical market and protect public health.

    The board has already conducted a training for its staff, county pharmacists, and KEMSA personnel in an effort to align them with the new technology.