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BasiGo Secures Orders for 500 E-Buses, Igniting Nairobi’s Green Transportation Revolution

BasiGo which has been known for its stewardship towards a greener transportation sector with its flagship electric buses, is witnessing a surge in orders for its buses by public service transport operators. In a recent analysis, the e-mobility champion has since seen notable orders pouring in from the public service vehicle (PSV) operators in Nairobi where the company is poised for a remarkable expansion.

Quick Summary:

  • BasiGo, a local electric vehicle assembler, has received orders for 500 buses from PSV operators in Nairobi.
  • This surge in demand marks a substantial leap for the company, amplifying its sales by nearly 24 times.
  • The orders coincide with the recent launch of Kenya’s first assembly line for electric buses.

The brain behind BasiGo, Jit Bhattacharya, shared his excitement about the influx of orders during the Second E-mobility Stakeholders’ Conference and Exhibition that was held here in Nairobi. According to Jit, deposits for the said orders have already been secured and is now gearing up to swiftly fulfill the orders as well as roll out these eco-friendly buses in Nairobi.

Ever since BasiGo was its introduced, the company has gradually carved its niche in the market especially having sold 21 buses to date. However, the latest surge in demand marks a significant milestone for the company where Mr. Bhattacharya has strongly emphasized its importance, highlighting the substantial growth opportunity it presents for BasiGo.

Additionally, the company seems to have hit the market at the right time especially with the establishment of an assembly line for electric buses at the Kenya Vehicle Manufacturers plant in Thika a development that couldn’t have come at a better time. The strategic move is touted position the company at a better place that will enable it to meet the escalating demand head-on. There are also plans to ramp up production to 20 buses per month and BasiGo is right on course for a transformative phase in its journey.

In addition to the impressive surge in demand, BasiGo sees an ample room for further expansion. The recent orders from PSV owners constitute merely three percent of the total public transport buses in Nairobi. Considering these facts, it represents a clear picture of a growing appetite for electric buses as well as the untapped potential that lies ahead.

Challenges of e-mobility

While the promise of e-mobility is tantalizing, challenges persist. The lack of adequate charging infrastructure remains a significant hurdle that is hindering a widespread adoption of electric vehicles. But there are several initiatives like Kenya Power’s commitment to invest in electric vehicles and charging infrastructure signal a promising shift towards overcoming these obstacles. Moreover, government support in the form of incentives such as tax breaks further bolsters the prospects of the electric vehicle sector.

Kenyan Passport Processing Overhaul: Kindiki Pledges 3-Day Turnaround by Year’s End

For those of us who’ve had to visit various passport processing centers here in Kenya must be privy to the tedious process that has since been marred by cartels looking to cash in on desperate Kenyans looking to go abroad. While other locations within the country are not as problematic as the so-called Nyayo house here in Nairobi, they all have one thing in common, and that is corrupt individuals looking to cash in with a promise of a speedy processing period.

Following complains from various Kenyans the government of Kenya intervened with hope of streamlining the passport application process thereby removing unnecessary huddles and having applicants receive them in good time. On top of previous efforts, the government of Kenya (GoK) has unveiled ambitious plans to expedite the processing of Kenyan passports to be within 21 days. This time, with an enhanced infrastructure as well as streamlined procedures that have been spearheaded by the Cabinet Secretary of Interior and Administration of National Government, Kithure Kindiki. Kindiki is spearheading efforts to drastically reduce processing times, aiming for a mere 3 days by the end of the year.

Summary

  • The Government of Kenya is intensifying efforts to expedite passport processing, with a pledge to reduce turnaround times to just 3 days.
  • Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki announced the deployment of new printers and increased passport booklets to facilitate faster processing.
  • Plans are underway to upgrade Kenyan passports to a third-generation standard, enhancing security and aligning them with international benchmarks.

Kindiki has assured Kenyans of the government’s commitment to enhancing efficiency as well as improved service delivery in passport processing. He spoke on the backdrop of the acquisition of new printers as well as the supply of passport booklets that have been depleted in previous days. The State Department of Immigration and Citizen Services is expected to implement these reforms effectively.

Kindiki’s pledge outlines a phased approach where applicants will experience a gradual reduction in processing times. Starting from the 1st of August, the turnaround period is set to decrease to seven days, followed by a further reduction to three days from the 1st of November. This proactive strategy is expected to address the longstanding issue of prolonged passport processing while providing the much-needed tangible relief to Kenyans.

There are also efforts towards moving away from current passports to a third-generation passports with heightened the security that ensures credibility of Kenyan travel documents. By aligning with global standards, these upgraded passports will afford Kenyan citizens enhanced privileges as well as recognition on the international stage.

Alongside these progressions, the State Department for Immigration & Citizen Services led by Principal Secretary Julius Bitok is taking steps to speed up printing procedures. By introducing new printers and hiring more staff, the department is ready to work around the clock to process passport applications promptly and effectively. Moreover, expanding the number of service counters from 14 to 40 demonstrates an initiative to tackle current delays and improve customer contentment.

Vivo Introduces V30 in Kenya: Advancing Portrait Photography and Premium Design

Summary:

  • Vivo introduces the V30, emphasizing portrait photography and design improvements.
  • Key features include upgraded Aura Light Portrait technology and a 50 MP AF Ultra Wide-Angle Camera.
  • The V30 offers a premium design with nature-inspired color options, but its performance and pricing may raise some concerns.

Vivo has finally unveiled its latest flagship smartphone – the vivo V30 in Kenya, signaling a new era in smartphone photography as well as design. While the V30 introduces notable features, the competition has reached a point where we cannot be so sure unless in real-life experience that indeed it carries the crown it so proudly claims in this segment.

Alongside many refinements compared to its immediate predecessor, the V30 highlights upgraded Aura Light Portrait technology, which is aiming to enhance low-light portrait photography. With this worthy upgrade alongside the 50 MP AF Ultra Wide-Angle Camera, this handset will offer users the opportunity to capture a variety of scenes with clarity and detail.

When it comes to design, an area that has for the longest time received minimal upgrades in smartphone technology, the V30 presents a premium aesthetic which encompasses a nature-inspired color options such as Peacock Green and Noble Black. The incorporation of a comfortable 3D Curved Screen design as well as a vibrant 1.5K Ultra Clear Sunlight AMOLED Display adds to the device’s appeal.

While its design and camera features are noteworthy, questions may arise regarding its overall performance and pricing. We’ve had so many devices that have promised to wow us in this area only to fail in real-life situations. Vivo might find some worthy competitor in the set price range which might make it a little hard to have a homerun.

Additionally, the pricing of the V30 at Ksh. 64,999 may prompt scrutiny, as consumers would most likely evaluate whether the device’s features justify its cost. Transparency regarding the device’s value proposition as well as a competitive analysis could address potential concerns surrounding its affordability.

Bolt and M-KOPA Partner to Revolutionize Mobility in Kenya with Electric Motorcycles

Kenya’s efforts towards a greener future are undoubtedly on course especially with numerous programs initiated by the government towards the same, just recently we witnessed the unveiling of green number plates for electric cars that would give owners some advantages when it comes to certain fees such as parking within the city. Now, other players in the industry such as ride hailing app Bolt and M-KOPA have also joined the bandwagon with a partnership to introduce electric motorbikes in the country. The two companies are seeking to offer drivers environmentally friendly motorbikes that are also economically viable.

Summary:

  • Bolt and M-KOPA partner to launch electric motorcycle fleet in Kenya.
  • Drivers can lease ROAM and Ampersand electric motorbikes at discounted rates.
  • The partnership aims to make electric motorbike ownership affordable and environmentally sustainable.

Bolt has hit headlines here in Kenya for both positive and negative reasons, and in this case at least we are discussing something that is going to impact the environment in a positive way. The company has taken a leading role towards a sustainable transportation sector by incorporating electric vehicles (EVs) into its fleet. Through the strategic alliance with M-KOPA which specializes in providing innovative financial solutions, Bolt is looking at making the electric motorbike ownership process accessible to a broader segment of the population.

In the partnership, new and existing Bolt drivers will have the opportunity to lease electric motorbikes from leading brands such as ROAM and Ampersand at significantly reduced rates compared to conventional market prices. By leveraging M-KOPA’s fintech platform, drivers will be able to access financing options that facilitate affordable ownership of electric motorcycles, with monthly payments ranging from $74.35 to $111.52.

Caroline Wanjihia, Regional Director of Ride Hailing Operations for Africa & International Markets at Bolt emphasized the environmental as well as economic benefits of transitioning to electric vehicles. She highlighted the potential for increased driver earnings and enhanced economic stability within communities served by Bolt. According to her, by embracing electric mobility Bolt will not only reduce its environmental footprint but also empower drivers to achieve higher daily earnings thereby contributing to economic prosperity.

On his side David Damberger who is the Managing Director of M-KOPA Mobility, reiterated the commitment to redefining mobility in Kenya through accessible financing solutions for electric motorbikes. With a focus on serving the underbanked population, M-KOPA aims to expand its reach and at the same time support more customers in adopting sustainable transportation alternatives. The partnership with Bolt signifies a significant stride towards this objective, marking a new era of affordable and eco-conscious mobility solutions in Kenya.

As part of its ambitious launch strategy, Bolt plans to deploy an initial fleet of 5000 electric bikes in Nairobi, with expected future expansion initiatives on the horizon. The sizable investment confirms Bolt’s commitment to sustainable transportation as well as its determination to lead the charge towards a greener and a more sustainable future for Kenya’s urban mobility landscape.

TECNO Teams Up with Magical Kenya to Unveil CAMON 30 Series in Kenya

Summary

  • TECNO launches the CAMON 30 Series in Kenya with Interesting specs.
  • The series boasts great imaging capabilities, innovative AI functionalities, and a partnership with Magical Kenya.
  • The series come with features like a 50MP Eye-tracking Autofocus Front Camera and Android 14 operating system.

In a spectacular evening event against the backdrop of Amboseli National Park, TECNO unveiled its latest breakthrough in smartphone technology—the CAMON 30 Series. The launch marked a significant milestone for the manufacturer by introducing what it termed as state-of-the-art imaging capabilities as well as trying to redefine excellence in the smartphone design and performance arena.

The CAMON 30 Series comes equipped with a decent 50MP eye-tracking selfie camera that it says will set the device apart from the competition. On top of a massive selfie sensor, the back camera utilizes industry leader – Sony’s IMX890 50MP OIS sensor. We expect these large sensors to deliver stunning images in most lighting condition thereby enhancing the way users capture moments and express their creativity.

The CAMON 30 Series, features AI capabilities like an inbuild Social App dubbed Turbo as well as AIGC Portrait which presents a fresh take on photography by enhancing video calls as well as taking creative photography to new levels. TECNO’s collaboration with Magical Kenya also brings a twist to the launch event where it showcased the seamless blend of technology and nature. This long-term partnership highlights TECNOs dedication to innovation and sustainability.

A notable aspect of the CAMON 30 Series is its Classic Side axis Camera Design of traditional rangefinder cameras. This design adds to the devices visual appeal as well as offering users a premium photography experience.

On performance front, the Tecno Camon 30 series offers various memory options alongside support for a robust 70W Ultra Charge with its 5000mAh battery capacity, setting a new standard for smartphone excellence meeting the diverse needs of today’s consumers.

The launch event was graced by notable figures in the tech industry underscoring the importance of TECNOs latest technological advancements. Representatives from Safaricom, Airtel Kenya, Magical Kenya and others showed their support for TECNOs pioneering initiatives.

Peter Shi, Brand Manager, at TECNO Kenya shared his enthusiasm for the debut of CAMON 30 series, highlighting how TECNO’s product range and cutting-edge technologies are making a transformative impact. Featuring a blend of timeless style and modern design the CAMON 30 Series provides a touch with a variety of vibrant color options. From Iceland Basaltic Dark to Sahara Sand Brown and Emerald Lake Green, users can select a design that suits their taste.

Price and Availability

Camon 30 series are available now across Kenya with prices ranging from KES 31,999 for the CAMON 30 to KES 49,499 for the CAMON 30 PRO and KES 57,499 for the CAMON PRO 5G variant catering to a consumer base.

President Ruto Calls for Pan-African Cooperation During 2024’s Connected Africa Summit

At the 2024 Connected Africa Summit held in Nairobi Kenya, President William Ruto highlighted the need for African countries to come together and create a unified strategy, for digital advancement. In his address, the President emphasized the significance of establishing a synchronized framework to drive the continent towards becoming a player in trade and innovation.

His vision centers around the establishment of a Network of ICT Authorities to govern and integrate digital transformation initiatives. Additionally, the president noted that by aligning digital policies and strategies, African nations can accelerate progress in bridging the digital divide while fostering economic prosperity.

Africa’s digital infrastructure is currently falling behind compared to regions, with limited access to mobile and broadband Internet services. President Ruto in his address, pointed out that despite the availability of various technologies, a good number of the population was still unable to fully utilize them.

The importance of inclusion cannot be underestimated. President Ruto stresses its impact on creating job opportunities while reducing poverty and driving economic growth. To fully reap the benefits, he emphasizes the need for a digital workforce and efforts to bridge the digital gap.

President Ruto envisions a future for Africa’s digital economy with predictions indicating that there’s a significant growth potential by 2050. The continent’s young population offers a chance to foster innovation while leveraging emerging technologies.

International allies such as the United States and the European Union have shown their support for Africa’s initiatives. US Ambassador Meg Whitman highlighted the beneficial nature of cooperation while EU Ambassador Henriette Geiger underscored the transformative power of a unified digital market.

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi echoed President Ruto’s views by emphasizing on technology’s role in promoting prosperity across Africa. The presence of players from organizations, like COMESA and Smart Africa further demonstrated their collective dedication to advancing the continents digital agenda.

CEMASTEA Commences Training for Junior Secondary School Teachers to Foster STEM Pathway

In light of the changing education environment, CEMASTEA which stands for the Centre for Mathematics Science and Technology Education in Africa is working on enhancing the skills of Junior Secondary School teachers by providing them with training in science related subjects. CEMASTEA aims to ensure that educators have the abilities to successfully integrate the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) and help students progress towards pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects, in Senior School.

Quick Summary:

  • CEMASTEA initiates training for JSS teachers to enhance CBC implementation.
  • The training focuses on equipping teachers with pedagogical content knowledge.
  • Key areas of focus include Inquiry Based Learning (IBL) and integration of ICT in teaching.
  • The initiative aims to foster a learner-centered approach and promote STEM education across Kenya.

Training Objectives and Focus Areas:

The initiative aims to educate approximately 9,595 teachers who are responsible for pre-technical studies, Agriculture, and Nutrition subjects in JSS. The primary objectives of the initiative include:

  • Providing pedagogical content knowledge to support effective CBC implementation.
  • Facilitating the transition of 60% of JSS learners towards the STEM pathway in SS.

The training curriculum encompasses various focus areas that are essential to fostering student-centered pedagogies while enhancing teaching practices:

  1. Inquiry Based Learning (IBL): Teachers are trained to employ IBL methodologies which foster critical thinking as well as problem-solving skills among students.
  2. Innovative Teaching and Learning Activities: Educators learn to design engaging and interactive learning experiences to captivate learners’ interest while enhancing comprehension.
  3. Integration of ICT in Teaching: The incorporation of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) aims to modernize teaching methods and cater to the digital learning needs of 21st-century students.
  4. Lesson Planning: Teachers are guided on effective lesson planning techniques which are tailored to CBC designs for Grade 8 that ensure alignment with curriculum objectives.
  5. Professional Growth and Mentorship: The initiative promotes the establishment of communities of practice to facilitate professional development and peer support among teachers.
  6. Career Guidance: Teachers are equipped with strategies to provide mentorship and career guidance to students which in turn foster a holistic development as well as make informed career choices.

Regional Implementation and Impact:

The training sessions took place in various locations including Kisumu, Machakos and Nakuru serving educators from all 47 counties in Kenya. After completing the training, participants are expected to share their knowledge and skills with their communities thereby spreading the impact of the initiative across the country.

This initiative has received support from several stakeholders including the Ministry of Education (MoE). Lawrence Karuntimi, the Director of Education for Nyanza Region highlighted the importance of CEMASTEA’s involvement in addressing knowledge gaps in teaching content while strengthening STEM education within the Competency Based Curriculum (CBC). The MoE has reiterated its dedication in promoting access, to STEM education and using technology to improve learning experiences.

How to Launch a Limited Company in the UK

Launching a new limited company in the UK involves several important steps and legal requirements. While it may seem daunting, thousands of limited companies are formed each year by savvy entrepreneurs looking to build businesses. With good planning and professional guidance, you can smoothly handle the process of registering and establishing your company. This article will walk through the key steps needed to properly set up a limited liability company under UK law.

Choosing a Company Name

When launching a limited company in the UK, one of the first steps is choosing a suitable company name. You’ll need to check that your desired name is available and acceptable by doing a company name search on the Companies House website. The name must end in ‘Limited’ or ‘Ltd’ and can’t be offensive or too similar to an existing name.

Selecting Directors and Shareholders

Every UK limited company must have at least one director and one shareholder. The director is responsible for running the company, and shareholders own a portion of the company. You can have a single person fill both roles or appoint different people. Requirements are that directors and shareholders must be 16 or older and not be disqualified from serving.

As you form the company, you’ll need to provide details on all directors and shareholders. Those individuals must consent to act.

Choosing a Registered Office Address

Your company needs an official registered office address in the UK. This doesn’t have to be your trading address or headquarters. Many people use the address of their accountant in Bristol as the registered office. This can provide privacy if you register your residential address as a service address instead.

Registering with Companies House and HMRC

To legally create the company, you must register with Companies House. This can be done online by completing all the required company details. You’ll receive a certificate of incorporation if approved.

You must also register with HMRC for corporation tax and to receive a UTR number for filing taxes. This is done after incorporating, often with help from an accountancy firm in Bristol.

Creating a Memorandum and Articles of Association

These documents set out your company constitution, covering topics like shares, director authority, and decision-making powers. Templates are available, which you can modify to suit your needs. Legal advice may be prudent to ensure good governance.

Issuing Shares

Share capital represents the funds invested by shareholders. To meet the trading requirement for a limited company, you’ll need to issue shares with a nominal value of at least £50,000. Typically, shares have a nominal value of £1 each. You can start with an allotted number, like 50,000 or 100,000 shares.

Appoint a Company Secretary

This officer can be a director, shareholder, or hired professional. Duties include ensuring statutory filings are done properly. Many solopreneurs act as their own secretaries, but larger companies may outsource this role.

Set Up Business Bank Accounts

You should open new business bank accounts when launching a company, separate from your personal accounts. Shop around to find an account with suitable features and perks for your company.

Register for Taxes

Contact HMRC to register for corporation tax, PAYE, and VAT if applicable. You’ll need your company registration number. Bristol accountancy firms can help manage tax registrations and filing.

Get Accounting Software

Proper accounting practices are a legal requirement. Accounting software helps track finances, invoices, reporting, and more. Popular options like Xero or QuickBooks offer different pricing tiers and features.

Hire an Accountant

Consider partnering with an accounting firm in Bristol to assist with financial oversight, bookkeeping, taxes, and advising on best practices. This provides helpful experience and ensures legal compliance.

By following these key steps, you can successfully launch and register a new limited company in the UK. Don’t hesitate to enlist professional help to guide you through the process.