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The Real Housewives of Nairobi Takes the Crown at 2024 Kalasha Awards

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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The glitz and glamour of the entertainment world converged at the prestigious Kalasha Awards ceremony where outstanding achievements in Kenyan television were celebrated. Season 1 of The Real Housewives of Nairobi emerged as the shining star of the night which managed to clinch the title of Best TV Show. Alongside it, the gripping crime drama Pepeta secured multiple accolades that including Best TV Drama and Best Viewers’ Choice. Here is full details of the event.

Quick Summary:

  • The Real Housewives of Nairobi triumphs as Best TV Show at the 2024 Kalasha Awards.
  • Pepeta wins big, securing awards for Best TV Drama and Best Viewers’ Choice.
  • The ceremony celebrates excellence in Kenyan television that honored standout performances and captivating storytelling.

A Night of Triumph:

The first season of The Real Housewives of Nairobi captivated audiences and critics alike and managed to be the undisputed standout winner at the Kalasha Awards. The reality series which has been produced by Showmax as original production, soared to new heights of popularity, setting streaming records upon its release in February 2023. Its recognition as the Best TV Show cemented its cultural impact and audience appeal ending up solidifying its status as a must-watch program in Kenya’s television landscape.

Crime Drama Excellence:

Joining The Real Housewives of Nairobi in the winner’s circle was the riveting crime drama Pepeta. The Showmax Original production took home prestigious awards for Best TV Drama and Best Viewers’ Choice which reaffirmed its position as a compelling and beloved series. Set against the backdrop of real-life events, Pepeta intricately weaves together the stories of its characters offering viewers a gripping narrative experience. It received accolades at the Kalasha Awards reflecting on its quality craftsmanship as well as widespread acclaim.

Celebrating Talent and Creativity:

The Kalasha Awards ceremony showcased the diverse talents and creative brilliance within Kenya’s television industry. Standout performances and exceptional storytelling were recognized across various categories and notable winners who included Roast House, produced by D&R, earned accolades for Best Performance in a TV Comedy. On the other hand, Salem saw Charles Ouma crowned as Best Lead Actor in a TV Drama. Additionally, The Caller and The Last Door were honored for their contributions to documentary filmmaking, while Kina celebrated Ndugi Kithuku’s stellar performance as Best Supporting Actor in a TV Drama.

Watu Credit Kenya Supports Draft National e-Mobility Policy

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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Kenya is in the process of unveiling the nation’s e-mobility policy which is now in draft stage. This marks a significant move towards achieving a sustainable transportation sector. On the same note, Kenya has taken strides by unveiling the draft National Electric Mobility Policywhich has been spearheaded by a task force appointed by Roads and Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen aiming to revolutionize the transportation sector by promoting electric vehicles (EVs). Watu Credit which has become a major force in local asset finance solutions, has expressed its support for the policy and pledged to play a crucial role in facilitating its transition to electric mobility.

Quick Summary:

  • Watu Credit pledges to finance over 500,000 Electric Motorbikes in seven years.
  • The National Electric Mobility Policy aims to guide the transition from fossil-powered vehicles to electric vehicles across all transportation modes.
  • Watu Credit commits to investing more than Kshs 1.3 billion to accelerate the adoption of electric-powered motorbikes.

Embracing Electric Mobility:

By unveiling the draft e-Mobility Policy, Kenya has marked a pivotal moment in its journey towards achieving a sustainable transportation. With a commitment to finance the acquisition of over 500,000 Electric Motorbikes within the next seven years, Watu Credit is poised to be at the forefront of this transformative endeavor. The firm is keen on shifting focus from financing traditional fossil-powered motorbikes to electric bikes which confirms its dedication to fostering environmentally friendly mobility solutions.

Government Collaboration:

Roads and Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen emphasized the collaborative efforts between the government, private sector, international investors, and academic institutions to facilitate the transition to electric mobility. The policy provides a comprehensive framework for developing electric mobility across various transportation modes which include roads, rail, air, and maritime. Recently, the government showed its commitment through special initiatives such as assigning green-colored number plates to electric vehicles that signify its commitment to promoting EV adoption and raising public awareness.

Corporate Commitment:

Watu Credit’s Country Manager Erick Massawe reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the national electric vehicles transition agenda to bridge the financing gap while collaborating with manufacturing partners such as Arc Ride and GOGO Electric. The firm aims to provide accessible and affordable electric mobility solutions tailored to local conditions with initiatives such as investing more than Kshs 1.3 billion by 2030 to facilitate the acquisition of electric-powered motorbikes through hire purchase options.

Exciting Smartphone Launches Coming to Kenya in April 2024

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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We are just ushering in the new smartphone launch season and things are looking pretty nice for the Kenyan market. We understand that dust is just settling in after Samsung showcased its flagship lineup and even wooed us with their mid-range offering. However, as the smartphone season gains momentum in Kenya, tech enthusiasts and consumers alike can look forward to a flurry of new device launches from various manufacturers that will definitely have their palette salivating. Here’s a roundup of the highly anticipated smartphones set to debut in the country this month:

Infinix Note 40 Series:

Overview:

  • Infinix is gearing up to introduce its latest midrange lineup in Kenya consisting of the Note 40 series.
  • The series comprises the Note 40 Pro Plus, Note 40 Pro (4G and 5G), and the base Note 40, offering a range of options to cater to diverse user preferences.

Key Features:

  • Enhanced FastCharge Technology: Equipped with Infinix’s All-Round FastCharge powered by the Cheetah X1 chip which can support up to 100W wired MultiSpeed FastCharge and 20W wireless MagCharge.
  • Impressive Camera Setup: The lineup boasts a remarkable 108MP main camera with OIS support for the Pro and Plus models, along with 3X lossless optical zoom. Additionally, all models feature a 32MP selfie camera.
  • Stylish Design: Available in attractive color options such as Titan Gold, Obsidian Black, and Vintage Green, with a special Racing Edition planned later in collaboration with BMW’s DesignWorks partnership.
  • Pricing: While global prices range from $199 for the Note 40 to $309 for the Pro Plus 5G model, local pricing details will be revealed closer to the Kenyan launch.

Samsung Galaxy A35 and A55:

Overview:

  • Samsung is set to expand its midrange lineup in Kenya with the introduction of the Galaxy A35 and A55 models.
  • These smartphones offer a balance of performance, features, and affordability, catering to a wide range of consumers.

Key Features:

  • Advanced Camera Systems: Both the A35 and A55 boast impressive camera setups which include a 50MP main camera with OIS, accompanied by an ultrawide and macro lenses for versatile photography options.
  • High-Refresh-Rate Displays: The A55 features a 6.6-inch SuperAMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ support, providing smooth and vibrant visuals.
  • Durable Build: With glass front and back panels protected by Gorilla Glass Victus and IP67 dust and water resistance, the A55 offers durability and peace of mind for everyday use.
  • Pricing: Specific pricing details for the Kenyan market are yet to be disclosed, but the devices are already available for purchase in the country.

TECNO Camon 30 Series:

Overview:

  • TECNO is expected to launch its Camon 30 series in Kenya which focuses on delivering impressive camera-centric features and performance.
  • The lineup includes the Camon 30 Premier, Camon 30 Pro 5G, Camon 30 5G, and the base Camon 30, catering to different user needs and preferences.

Key Features:

  • Cutting-Edge Imaging Technology: The Camon 30 series features the TECNO PolarAce Imaging System, combining Sony sensors, dedicated ISP, and AI algorithms for exceptional camera performance.
  • High-Refresh-Rate Displays: The Camon 30 Premier boasts an LTPO screen with a 144Hz refresh rate, providing smooth and responsive visuals for an immersive viewing experience.
  • Powerful Hardware: With configurations such as the Dimensity 8200 Ultra chipset and up to 12GB of RAM, the Camon 30 series offers impressive performance for multitasking and gaming.
  • Pricing: While specific pricing details for the Kenyan market are yet to be revealed, the Camon 30 series promises to offer value for money with its feature-packed offerings.

I can’t say for certain that I’m anxious on these launches, but other smartphone enthusiasts keen with mid-range offering are eagerly waiting for the arrival of these interesting new devices, the Kenyan market is poised for a flurry wave of choice, catering to diverse consumer preferences and requirements.

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Jambojet Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Exclusive Ticket Offer

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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In celebration of its milestone 10th anniversary, Kenya’s budget carrier Jambojet has announced an exclusive promotion offering 1,000 tickets at a discounted rate of just Sh10 for one-way flights to various local destinations. Here are the exciting details on the unbelievable offer:

Quick Summary:

  • Jambojet marked its 10th anniversary with a special promotion offering 1,000 one-way tickets at Sh10 each.
  • The promotion aimed to reward loyal customers while attracting more travelers to fly with the carrier.
  • Tickets were available for select flights between April 8 and 26, exclusively through the airline’s website.

Key Details:

Generous Offer:

  • Jambojet’s Managing Director, Karanja Ndegwa, announced the sale of 1,000 tickets priced at Sh10 each for one-way flights.
  • This special offer provided travelers with significant savings compared to standard ticket prices making it the most affordable and accessible.

Limited Availability:

  • The promotion was available for select flights between April 8 and 26, creating a window of opportunity for travelers to book their discounted tickets.
  • With only 1,000 tickets on offer, customers are encouraged to act swiftly to secure their seats and take advantage of the incredible deal.

Exclusive Booking Method:

  • Tickets can only be booked through Jambojet’s official website, streamlining the booking process for customers who wanted to take advantage of the offer.

Celebrating Milestones:

  • The promotion not only celebrates Jambojet’s 10th anniversary but also served as a gesture of appreciation to its loyal customers for their continued support over the years.
  • By rewarding customers with discounted tickets, Jambojet reinforced its commitment to providing value and exceptional service.

Future Expansion Plans:

  • In addition to the anniversary promotion, Jambojet has announced plans to expand its operations across East Africa.
  • Starting from July 1, the airline will introduce four weekly flights between Mombasa and Zanzibar, further enhancing connectivity within the region.

CAK Clears Airtel Tower Deal Following Investigation

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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Sometimes back, Airtel Kenya was on the country’s telecoms sector watchdog following a complaint lodged against its deal with a rival tower provider sighting unfair business practices. The Competition Authority of Kenya (CAK) has finally concluded its probe into a complaint lodged by Atlas Towers Kenya Limited against Airtel Africa and American Tower Corporation (ATC), ultimately dismissing the allegations of restrictive trade practices. Here are the key details of the investigation and its findings:

Quick Summary:

  • CAK investigates a complaint lodged by Atlas Towers Kenya Limited against Airtel and ATC.
  • Atlas alleges that Airtel and ATC’s agreement constitutes vertical restraint of trade.
  • CAK finds no evidence of dominance by either Airtel or ATC in their respective markets.
  • Consequently, CAK dismisses the complaint, as the threshold for dominance required by Kenyan regulations is not met.

Allegations of Vertical Restraint:

Atlas Towers Kenya Limited raised concerns about an agreement between Airtel Africa and American Tower Corporation (ATC) where it alleged that if the deal was allowed to go through, then it would result in vertical restraint of trade. The complaint revolves around ATC providing tower sites for telcos like Airtel, with Airtel committing to meet an “Annual Quota” of ATC sites in exchange for financial rebates.

CAK Investigations and Findings:

  • CAK reviewed the complaint in accordance with its regulations on dominance and restrictive trade practices to assess whether Airtel and ATC hold a dominant market position in their respective sectors.
  • Despite ATC holding a significant share of the passive infrastructure market in Kenya, neither Airtel nor ATC was found to be dominant.
  • According to Kenyan regulations, dominance is defined as controlling not less than one-half of the total goods or services supplied or rendered in Kenya.
  • Since the threshold for dominance required by section 23 of the Act was not met by Airtel or ATC, CAK closed the matter.

Kenya’s Solar Power Surge: A New Era of Renewable Energy

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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Kenya’s renewable energy sector witnessed a historic milestone with the commissioning of the 40-megawatt (MW) Alten Kenya Solarfarms plant in Kesses, Uasin Gishu County. The addition of the new plant contributed to a record-breaking solar power generation capacity in 2023, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s energy transition. Let’s delve deeper into the details of this achievement and its implications for Kenya’s energy future.

Quick Summary:

  • Kenya’s solar power generation capacity reached a record 491.48 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) in 2023.
  • The surge in solar power generation follows the commissioning of new solar plants and increased output from existing facilities.
  • Solar power, alongside imports from Ethiopia and other renewable sources, mitigated the generation deficit caused by hydro and wind fluctuations.

Record-Breaking Solar Power Generation:

Data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) revealed a remarkable surge in solar power generation which topped at a record 491.48 million kWh in 2023. This development represented a notable increase of 28.1 percent compared to the previous year’s output. The commissioning of the Alten Kenya Solarfarms plant combined with enhanced output from existing solar farms like Cedate and Malindi, significantly contributed to this remarkable growth.

Addressing Generation Deficits:

Kenya’s reliance on solar power proved invaluable in addressing generation deficits caused by adverse weather conditions. For example, a 12.4 percent decline in hydro output attributed to severe drought, necessitated alternative sources of energy. Solar power, alongside imports from Ethiopia and other renewable sources, helped to bridge the gap thereby ensuring a stable supply of electricity despite challenges faced by traditional energy sources like hydro and wind.

Reduced Reliance on Expensive Thermal Power:

There were some expected benefits coming out of the green solar power of course, Kenya Power which is the sole power distributor in Kenya reduced its purchases of expensive thermal power by 17.5 percent. This cost-saving measure underscores the economic benefits of transitioning towards renewable energy sources. By harnessing solar power and other renewables, Kenya can enhance energy security while mitigating environmental impact as well as reducing dependency on costly fossil fuels.

Transitioning Towards Energy Auctions:

Following a global trend on falling prices of renewable energy components, there has been a push for Kenya to transition from feed-in tariffs (FiT) to energy auctions. The Presidential Taskforce on Review of Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) recommended adopting energy auctions for new solar and wind projects instead of FiTs. This shift aims to optimize cost-effectiveness and promote competitiveness in the renewable energy sector.

Revolutionizing Clean Cooking: BURN’s $12 Million Funding Boost

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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Cleaning cooking solutions in Africa have had a long journey to maturity due to several factors including costs. However, that hasn’t stopped a few wins here and there for example the quest for clean cooking solutions has received a significant boost with BURN Manufacturing securing a substantial investment of over $12 million. This funding injection is aimed at expanding the reach of clean cooking products across the continent which in turn will address issues associated with the alternative such as health, environmental, and economic challenges associated with traditional cooking methods. Let’s delve into the details of this transformative initiative and its potential impact.

Quick Summary:

  • BURN secures $12 million investment to expand clean cooking products in Africa.
  • Funding to support distribution of electric and biomass cookstoves in multiple countries.
  • Over 1.5 million people to benefit directly, with over 12 million tons of carbon emissions avoided.

The Funding Initiative:

BURN is a leading clean cookstove manufacturer in Kenya and has attracted significant investment from Key Carbon Ltd. and Cartesian, signaling a strong commitment to sustainable decarbonization efforts. This follow-on investment will drive the distribution of electric cookstoves in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia, along with biomass stoves in Nigeria, DRC, Tanzania, and Mozambique over the next two years. By expanding access to clean cooking technologies, BURN aims to alleviate the adverse health, environmental, and economic impacts associated with traditional cooking fuels.

Transformative Impact:

Burn has been in operation for several years and the adoption of it’s electric and biomass cookstoves has already transformed the lives of over 24 million people since 2014. With the latest funding injection, the company anticipates reaching an additional 1.5 million individuals, further enhancing access to clean cooking solutions. Most  Importantly, the deployment of these innovative appliances is projected to avoid over 12 million tons of carbon emissions over the next seven years. By leveraging carbon financing, BURN has been able to subsidize the cost of its cookstoves, making them more affordable for low-income households.

Empowering Communities:

Peter Scott, BURN’s Founder and CEO, expressed enthusiasm about the potential impact of the investment, highlighting the company’s commitment to reaching every household on the continent with clean cooking appliances. Through partnerships like the one with Key Carbon, BURN aims to scale its operations and raise additional funds to accelerate the clean cooking transition. This endeavor not only improves livelihoods but also contributes to climate mitigation efforts, aligning with global sustainability goals.

Accelerating Decarbonization:

The partnership between BURN and Key Carbon is expected to achieve milestones as ess as elevating the importance of carbon financing in driving impactful decarbonization projects. Luke Leslie, Co-Founder and CEO of Key Carbon, emphasized the vast potential of the Voluntary Carbon Market (VCM) to catalyze climate and biodiversity action. By attracting institutional investors and corporations into the VCM, Key Carbon seeks to promote the adoption of investable decarbonization projects, ultimately benefiting vulnerable communities worldwide.

Potential for Global Impact:

As BURN expands its clean cooking solutions across Africa, the ripple effects extend far beyond individual households. By mitigating carbon emissions and promoting sustainable practices, the initiative contributes to global efforts to combat climate change and improve environmental stewardship. Moreover, by prioritizing accessibility and affordability, BURN ensures that clean cooking technologies reach those who need them most, fostering inclusive development and resilience in communities across the continent.

Bridging the Electric Mobility Gap: Watu Credit’s $1.3 Billion Commitment

Tuvuti Editorial Team
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When we look at Kenya, there’s no doubt that the journey towards embracing electric mobility is gaining momentum on a serious note. The move has been fueled by among others, innovative financing solutions as well as government initiatives. Watu Credit which is a known local asset finance provider has pledged a substantial investment of over Sh1.3 billion to propel Kenya’s e-mobility transition. Let’s delve into the details of this significant commitment and its potential impact.

Quick Summary:

  • Watu Credit commits Sh1.3 billion to finance electric motorbikes in Kenya.
  • Collaboration with manufacturers to tailor bikes for local conditions and establish battery swapping stations.
  • Draft National Electric Mobility Policy and green-colored number plates signal government support for e-mobility.

The Financing Initiative:

Watu Credit’s country manager, Erick Massawe, unveiled the company’s ambitious plan to finance the acquisition of more than 500,000 electric motorbikes over the next seven years. He recognized that there was a financing gap which has become as a major hurdle in transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs) and Watu Credit aims to actively bridge this divide. Massawe emphasized the importance of collaborating with manufacturing partners like Arc Ride and GOGO Electric to ensure that the electric bikes meet local road and operating conditions. Additionally, the company plans to develop a widespread network of battery swapping stations, addressing concerns about charging infrastructure.

Government Support and Policy Framework:

The release of the draft National Electric Mobility Policy signifies a crucial step towards formalizing Kenya’s commitment to e-mobility. This efforts are being spearheaded by a task force appointed by the Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, which aims to guide the integration of electric vehicles across various transportation modes, including roads, rail, air, and maritime. Murkomen highlighted the collaboration with the private sector, international investors, and academic institutions to build the necessary infrastructure for electric mobility.

Encouraging Adoption:

In line with promoting the adoption of EVs, the government has initiated the issuance of green-colored number plates for all-electric vehicles, including two-wheelers. These distinctive plates serve as a visual cue, raising awareness about electric mobility and encouraging more individuals to consider making the switch. Such initiatives, coupled with supportive policies and financing options, are expected to accelerate the transition towards a greener transportation landscape in Kenya.

Potential Impact:

Watu Credit’s significant investment and collaboration with manufacturers underscore the growing momentum towards electric mobility in Kenya. By addressing the financing barrier and facilitating infrastructure development, the initiative holds the potential to catalyze widespread adoption of electric motorbikes. Moreover, the government’s commitment to supporting e-mobility through policy frameworks and awareness campaigns reinforces the positive trajectory towards sustainable transportation solutions.

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